Ireland’s Economic Outlook 2026: Markets, Tourism and Consumer Trends

Join Jane Kavanagh from AIB’s Corporate Treasury desk, AIB Chief Economist David McNamara, and Jonathan Clarke, Head of Hospitality, Tourism & Leisure with AIB Business Banking, for the first Market Talk podcast of 2026.In this wide‑ranging episode, the panel reflects on how the Irish economy and key sectors performed through a challenging 2025 and shares their outlook for 2026 amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and shifting market dynamics. Tune in for:A deep dive into Ireland’s hospitality and tourism sector, including a slow start to 2025 followed by a strong rebound in visitor numbers and consumer spendingInsights into changing consumer behaviour, premiumisation trends, and the challenges facing pubs, restaurants, and rural hospitality businessesAn overview of Ireland’s domestic economic resilience, labour market strength, and how Ireland compares with global peersGlobal market perspectives covering the US, Eurozone, UK, and Asia, with a focus on growth trends, equity markets, and investor sentimentCentral bank outlooks for the ECB, Bank of England, and Federal Reserve, including expectations for interest rate cuts in 2026Currency market analysis, including euro/dollar and euro/sterling forecasts and what exporters should watchDiscussion on US trade policy, tariffs, and what recent developments mean for Ireland and European tradeA forward-looking view on tourism demand, hotel supply, cost pressures, and why the sector remains cautiously optimistic for the year aheadStay informed with expert analysis and practical outlooks for the new year. Subscribe to AIB Market Talk for ongoing financial market insights.AIB Economic Analysis - https://aib.ie/fxcentreAIB Business Banking Hospitality - https://aib.ie/business/sector-expertise/hospitalityVisit our website and subscribe to receive AIB's Economic Analysis direct to your inbox. Our full legal disclaimer can be viewed here https://aib.ie/fxcentre/podcast-disclaimer. Registered in Ireland: No: 24173 Allied Irish Bank p.l.c is regulated by the Central Bank of IrelandAIB Customer Treasury Services is a registered business name of Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c. Registered Office: 10 Molesworth Street, Dublin 2