David McNamara: Irish public finances buck a worsening European trend

Policymakers have begun to lay out fiscal supports to offset geopolitical shock

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen. The European Commission laid out its “AccelerateEU” energy plan, which allows member states to provide temporary supports and tax cuts to counter surging energy costs. Picture: AP Photo/Virginia Mayo

Mon, 27 Apr, 2026 - 10:39

David McNamara: British economy is stuck in stagnation

David McNamara is the Group Chief Economist at AIB responsible for leading the bank's macroeconomic analysis and provide insights for both national and international stakeholders.

Recent positive momentum on markets gave way to further uncertainty last week, with some gains unwound. The swift rescinding of the opening of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran last week and stop-start peace talks have added to the sense of drift and uncertainty.

Oil prices have traded above the $100/ barrel mark in recent days, having reached $89 following the brief Iranian appeasement. Nevertheless, the existing ceasefires with Iran and Lebanon have been extended for a further three weeks, giving space for both sides to reach a compromise.