As 2026 begins, it’s an ideal moment for reflecting on your finances, sharpening your focus, and setting a practical roadmap for the next five years. Whether you’re just starting out or reassessing where you stand, this blog will walk you through how to build a robust 5-year financial strategy with clear, actionable steps you can follow.
A five-year time-horizon provides a useful balance: it’s long enough to aim for meaningful progress, yet short enough to stay realistic and adaptable. Compared with vague resolutions, a defined strategy increases your likelihood of success by giving you structure, measurable goals and a timeline.
In Ireland, the financial and regulatory environment continues to evolve, so having a strategy ensures you respond proactively rather than reactively. This is why financial planning begins with establishing your current financial position and setting clear goals, without this foundation, it becomes far more difficult to build a strategy that genuinely supports long-term success.
Before you set new goals, you need to understand where you currently stand. Key areas to review:
In the Irish context, financial-planning firms advise a “snapshot” approach: compile your current finances, liabilities and aspirations to build a realistic starting point.
With your baseline mapped out, highlight:
This diagnostic will form the foundation for your 5-year plan.
Rather than “I want to save more,” aim for something like: “Build an emergency fund equal to six months’ outgoings within 2 years” or “Increase pension contributions by 50 % in the next 12 months and hold steady thereafter.”
Based on your goals and risk tolerance, develop a savings and investment strategy. This should include:
Fairstone supports clients in building disciplined and goal-focused savings strategies through our dedicated savings service, helping you stay on track and make informed decisions that align with your financial ambitions.
You can learn more about how we help individuals grow their savings here.
Clearing high-interest debt or managing mortgage repayments can free up cash for goals. Some tips:
No strategy is complete without protecting your foundation. Ensure you have adequate:
Protection strategies ensure that if unforeseen events occur, your 5-year timeline isn’t derailed.
Set regular check-ins, every quarter or semi-annually, to review your progress towards each goal. Ask:
Life happens, and your financial strategy should remain flexible. It is recommended to carry out annual reviews of your overall situation and adjust your plan as needed to account for tax changes, market conditions, or shifts in your personal circumstances. This ensures your strategy stays aligned with your goals and continues to support your long-term progress.
Recognise when you hit a target (e.g., emergency fund reached, debt reduced by 50 %). These milestones help maintain motivation and provide psychological momentum.
Ireland offers several tax-efficient vehicles: pensions (which benefit from tax relief when contributing), certain savings schemes and investment opportunities. Your 5-year plan should factor those in, maximising reliefs where possible.
Depending on the vehicle, Irish investors might face tax on interest, dividends or gains. Keep your strategy aligned with your tax position to retain more of your returns.
Regulatory frameworks, pension rules, and investment product legislation can evolve over time. Staying informed about these changes helps ensure your 5-year strategy remains compliant, efficient, and aligned with best-practice wealth-planning principles.
Set up automatic transfers to savings, pension contributions and investment accounts. Automating helps ensure you don’t inadvertently miss the regular contributions that power your goals.
Visualise where you want to be in five years, whether that’s achieving a certain net worth, being debt-free, or having the flexibility to change career or lifestyle. That vision will keep you motivated through the ups and downs.
While focusing on savings and investments is important, allow for rewards along the way, whether a modest holiday, hobby investment or spending on meaningful experiences. This balance helps prevent burnout or loss of enthusiasm for your plan.
Don’t assume high returns without considering the level of risk involved. Your strategy should be based on realistic expectations, supported by appropriate diversification to help balance potential gains and losses. Avoid overly optimistic modelling, as it can lead to decisions that undermine your long-term financial stability.
Focusing solely on upside ignores potential downside. If you haven’t secured appropriate protection (income, health, insurance), your plan is vulnerable.
Avoid making impulsive changes to your plan or trying to “time the market”. A disciplined, regular review process helps maintain focus.
Tax law or pension rules may change. If you don’t revisit your strategy regularly in light of Irish regulations, you may lose opportunities or incur unexpected liabilities.
Setting a five-year financial strategy is one thing; executing it effectively is quite another. This is where expert guidance becomes essential. Even financially confident individuals benefit from professional support in creating a personalised plan, identifying gaps, and staying on course.
A trusted adviser brings:
At Fairstone, we specialise in helping clients turn their financial ambitions into achievable, long-term strategies. We provide tailored financial plans designed around your unique circumstances, goals, and risk tolerance. With our guidance, you can build a strategy that evolves as your life changes while remaining firmly aligned with the Irish financial landscape.
Let 2026 be the start of a purposeful journey to new wealth goals, and with Fairstone’s expertise beside you, you can move forward with confidence and clarity.
This article is for general information purposes and is not an invitation to deal or address your specific requirements. Any expressions of opinions are subject to change without notice. The information disclosed should not be relied upon in their entirety and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute, advice. Although endeavours have been made to provide accurate and timely information of the various source material, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future.
Financial resolutions for 2026 offer a powerful opportunity to reassess, refine, and reset your long-term wealth strategy. January is more than just a symbolic new beginning, it’s a powerful opportunity to reassess, refine, and reset your financial strategy. A new year brings with it both market shifts and personal milestones, making this the ideal moment to ensure your wealth is positioned to support your ambitions.
At Fairstone Ireland, we view the new year not as a time for quick fixes, but as a moment to take deliberate, high-impact action. Strategic financial planning at the start of the year allows you to align your portfolio, tax position, and long-term objectives, ensuring your wealth continues to serve you, and not the other way around.
Every successful financial plan begins with clarity of purpose. True wealth management is not just about maximising returns; it’s about aligning your resources with your priorities, responsibilities, and lifestyle aspirations.
Begin the year by reflecting on what your wealth is meant to achieve, whether that’s funding future ventures, creating intergenerational security, supporting philanthropy, or ensuring financial independence. In an increasingly complex environment, clarity of intent allows you to make strategic decisions instead of reactive ones.
A clearly defined vision becomes the framework against which every financial decision can be tested. It enables you to identify what success means to you, measure progress meaningfully, and focus your capital where it matters most.
The start of the year is the ideal time to take a holistic view of your investment strategy. Review not just performance, but purpose. Does your portfolio still reflect your current goals and time horizons? Is it appropriately balanced across asset classes, geographies, and liquidity needs?
Economic conditions in Ireland and globally continue to evolve, with interest-rate trends, energy markets, and regulatory changes influencing returns. An annual review ensures you’re not over-exposed in one area or missing new opportunities elsewhere.
This process also allows for refinement, perhaps increasing exposure to sustainable investments, reducing concentration risk, or reassessing alternative assets such as private equity or real estate. For business owners or directors, it’s also an opportunity to evaluate how personal wealth interacts with corporate holdings or share options.
At Fairstone Ireland, our advisers work closely with clients to align portfolio structure with long-term strategy, ensuring each asset plays a distinct role in achieving overall objectives.
Ireland’s tax landscape remains dynamic, influenced by both domestic policy and broader European directives. For high-earning professionals and business owners, taking advantage of available reliefs, allowances, and structures before deadlines can significantly enhance outcomes.
Now is the time to evaluate your overall tax efficiency, across investments, pensions, business holdings, and estate-planning vehicles.
Consider:
An integrated wealth and tax review ensures your structures remain compliant while operating at peak efficiency. This not only protects capital but also positions you to take advantage of opportunities as they arise.
Wealth is not just about accumulation, it’s about stewardship. For many families, the start of a new year is an appropriate time to revisit estate and succession planning.
Reviewing wills, trust arrangements, and inheritance-tax exposure ensures that your intentions are clearly defined and efficiently executed. In Ireland, where thresholds and reliefs can change, even a small adjustment in structure can have a significant long-term impact.
For business owners, succession planning should include contingency scenarios, leadership transitions, and shareholder arrangements. These conversations can be complex, but approaching them proactively ensures continuity and confidence for the next generation.
Fairstone Ireland’s advisory approach combines financial structure with empathy, helping clients articulate what legacy truly means to them and ensuring the mechanics of their plan match their vision.
Sustainability and purpose-driven investment continue to evolve as central considerations in modern wealth management. Investors are increasingly seeking not only financial return but also measurable impact, whether environmental, social, or governance related.
The Irish market has seen rapid growth in Environmental Social Governance (ESG) aligned funds and responsible investment products, many classified under EU Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation SFDR as Articles 8 and 9 funds. Aligning a portion of your capital with sustainable strategies can deliver long-term resilience while reflecting personal or corporate values.
A purposeful investment strategy also extends to philanthropy, charitable foundations, or donor-advised funds, allowing you to make a difference while maintaining control and efficiency.
Risk management remains a cornerstone of wealth preservation. The new year offers a natural checkpoint to review exposure, both in investment markets and in personal or corporate protection.
Consider whether your current insurance, income-protection, or shareholder-protection arrangements still match your needs. Similarly, review liquidity provisions: would you have sufficient access to capital if an unexpected opportunity or challenge arose?
Balancing growth assets with appropriate levels of liquidity and protection ensures financial resilience. This is particularly relevant in Ireland’s dynamic property and business markets, where personal and professional interests are often intertwined.
Working with an experienced adviser allows you to quantify risk clearly, adjust coverage where necessary, and preserve the integrity of your long-term plan.
A financial plan should never remain static. Markets, regulations, and personal circumstances evolve, and your strategy must evolve with them.
Establishing a structured review schedule with your adviser ensures your wealth plan remains current and optimised. For high-net-worth individuals and business owners, this might involve quarterly investment reviews, annual tax and succession assessments, and periodic recalibration of objectives.
This ongoing governance provides accountability, clarity, and confidence. It transforms financial planning from a one-off exercise into a continuous, dynamic process, one that adjusts as your world changes.
Financial planning is the foundation of every successful wealth strategy. In a landscape shaped by shifting markets, inflationary pressures, and changing legislation, a structured plan provides direction, discipline, and confidence.
A comprehensive financial plan connects every element of your wealth, investments, pensions, tax strategy, and estate structures, into one cohesive framework. It helps you anticipate change rather than react to it, enabling you to make proactive, evidence-based decisions.
In Ireland, where tax structures and investment opportunities are influenced by both domestic and European policy, this level of foresight is invaluable. Sound planning ensures that your wealth continues to grow efficiently while supporting your broader life goals.
At Fairstone Ireland, we specialise in guiding clients through each stage of their financial journey. Our advisory model combines the depth of wealth management expertise with the precision of holistic financial planning.
When you partner with us, you can expect:
Our role is not merely to advise but to collaborate, combining technical insight with strategic vision. We help you make confident, informed decisions that safeguard and enhance your wealth.
The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to reflect, reassess, and reaffirm what truly matters to you financially. Whether your focus is on growth, preservation, succession, or purpose, the key to success lies in clarity and disciplined execution.
By defining your objectives, optimising your structures, and working with a trusted adviser, you turn financial intentions into measurable progress. At Fairstone Ireland, we are here to ensure every element of your financial life works in harmony, today, tomorrow, and for the generations that follow.
The new year is full of possibility. With structured planning, professional guidance and a clear sense of direction, you can make this the year that sets the pace for lasting financial success.
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Year-End Wealth Checklist: Smart Financial Moves Before December 31st
This article is for general information purposes and is not an invitation to deal or address your specific requirements. Any expressions of opinions are subject to change without notice. The information disclosed should not be relied upon in their entirety and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute, advice.
As December approaches, now is the critical time to turn your attention to your financial position and make strategic moves that will serve you well into the next year and beyond. A year-end wealth checklist isn’t about last-minute panic, but instead about taking intentional steps to review your situation and optimise what you can before the deadline. At Fairstone Ireland, we support clients in doing precisely that, combining rigorous wealth management with thoughtful financial planning tailored to their unique circumstances.
Every year brings new opportunities and challenges. Market movements, regulatory updates, and expiring tax allowances can all influence your financial outcomes. Without an end-of-year review, it becomes easy to miss meaningful changes or benefits.
A clear, professional financial plan helps you stay aligned with your short- and long-term goals while giving you greater control over your money. This is especially true for individuals with more complex situations, such as multiple income streams, investment properties, or international holdings. For them, the year-end window offers a final chance to review, adjust, and improve outcomes before the calendar resets.
Here is a structured checklist across different dimensions of wealth management, investments, tax, protection, business, estate. Use it as a guide, but remember each line item should be reviewed in light of your personal goals, risk profile and asset mix.
Begin by creating a clear snapshot of your financial life. List your assets, such as investments, properties, savings, and business interests, alongside your liabilities, including loans, mortgages, and other debts. Additionally, include ongoing commitments like tax payments, household bills, and future obligations.
Collect supporting documents like bank statements, payslips, and rental or dividend income records. This gives you an accurate view of your cash flow and net worth. As a result, you can identify gaps, reduce inefficiencies, and make informed decisions for the year ahead.
Once you understand your financial baseline, turn to your investments. Check whether your portfolio still aligns with your long-term objectives. Market movements may have shifted your asset allocation, leading to too much exposure in certain areas.
If you hold business interests or complex assets, an end-of-year review can help determine whether rebalancing, restructuring, or adjusting timelines is appropriate. This ensures your strategy remains both intentional and resilient.
The final months of the year often present valuable opportunities for tax optimisation. For example, high earners may be able to maximise reliefs or reduce unnecessary tax liabilities by acting before December 31st.
Actions to consider include:
Making additional pension or retirement contributions
Reviewing dividend or bonus timing
Considering gifting or charitable donations
Assessing upcoming tax changes and their potential impact
By addressing these items early, you avoid rushed decisions later and strengthen your financial position going into the new year.
Building wealth is only part of the picture. Protecting it, and deciding how it will be passed on, is just as important. Review your life cover, income protection, wills, trusts, and business continuity plans before the year ends. These areas often receive less attention than investments, even though they are just as critical.
If you own a business, consider your exit strategy, the tax implications of a transfer, or any potential regulatory changes. Ask yourself whether your plans would still work if something unexpected happened tomorrow.
Once you know where you stand, define where you want to go. Think about what the next 12–24 months look like. You may wish to increase contributions, adjust your investment blend, change business structures, or review your residency or relocation plans.
Setting clear goals ensures your tax planning, investment decisions, and protection strategies are connected rather than isolated. This creates a more cohesive and effective approach to long-term wealth.
Wealth management and financial planning are not optional extras. Instead, they form the foundation for dealing with uncertainty and taking advantage of emerging opportunities. A well-designed plan helps you anticipate risks such as market downturns, interest-rate shifts, or regulatory changes.
In Ireland, where tax and regulatory rules evolve quickly, structured planning is even more important. Global economic factors also influence financial outcomes, making professional guidance essential for long-term success.
Wealth management is not just about accumulating assets. It involves preserving and growing capital in alignment with your personal goals. With trusted advice, you become less reactive and more consistent in your approach.
At Fairstone Ireland, we recognise that each client has unique objectives, risk tolerances and life-situations. Our approach combines bespoke wealth-management services with structured financial planning. Working with us means you will:
Completing your year-end wealth checklist allows you to close one chapter with clarity and begin the next with confidence. By reviewing your investments, tax planning, protection structures, and future goals, you position yourself for stronger financial outcomes in the coming year.
If you want expert support in completing your review or identifying gaps, Fairstone Ireland is here to help. Together, we can ensure your wealth strategy remains robust when it matters most.
The year may be ending, but the opportunity for your wealth begins again. Let’s shape what comes next together.
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This article is for general information purposes and is not an invitation to deal or address your specific requirements. Any expressions of opinions are subject to change without notice. The information disclosed should not be relied upon in their entirety and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute, advice.
Budget 2026 arrives at a time of economic recalibration. The Government’s €9.4 billion package focuses on fiscal restraint and targeted adjustments across income supports, pensions, and business incentives. Rather than introducing major new spending measures, the Budget seeks to balance economic pressures with investment in key sectors, though reactions have been mixed across the business and financial community.
For business owners and higher-income individuals, this is a budget of refinement, not revolution. It brings modest reliefs, new compliance obligations, and fresh opportunities for those willing to plan strategically. At Fairstone, we see this as a time to strengthen your financial foundations, aligning business decisions, personal wealth, and long-term goals.
The main focus of Budget 2026 is maintaining economic balance. With global growth softening, the Government has prioritised continued investment in public services and infrastructure while keeping fiscal policy steady.
What this means for you:
While the overall approach is one of continuity, it still provides scope for structured financial and business planning.
The rollout of the auto-enrolment pension scheme in January 2026 will be one of the most significant operational shifts for employers in years. Businesses must now contribute to employee pensions for those not already in a workplace scheme, a move that supports retirement security but adds a recurring cost.
Meanwhile, PRSI rates are increasing again, with employer PRSI rising to 11.25% and employee PRSI to 4.2%. Together, these changes underscore the importance of proactive financial planning.
How Fairstone can help: We help employers understand the full financial impact of auto-enrolment, build contribution costs into forecasts, and identify opportunities to align pension benefits with overall remuneration strategies.
Click the following link to read more about Auto Enrolment in Ireland
Budget 2026 reaffirmed the government’s commitment to innovation-led enterprise. The R&D (Research and Development) tax credit has increased from 30% to 35%, offering more liquidity to scaling firms, and the Entrepreneur Relief threshold has been raised to €1.5 million, supporting founders looking to reinvest in the Irish economy.
What this means for you: These measures may create opportunities for business owners who are planning future investment in areas such as product development, talent, or capital projects, depending on how they align with individual business priorities and sector trends.
While the Budget introduced a Derelict Property Tax to encourage regeneration, it also lowered VAT on new apartments from 13.5% to 9%. Together, these measures seek to increase supply and stimulate development.
If you own or invest in property, this could influence both your development pipeline and long-term portfolio strategy.
Fairstone’s perspective: Our advisers can help you assess whether property investment remains aligned with your financial objectives, taking into account your cash flow, debt profile, and diversification needs.
A key measure for investors in Budget 2026 is the reduction of the exit tax on investment funds and life assurance savings products, from 41% to 38%. This move narrows the gap between the exit tax and capital gains tax, making Irish-domiciled funds and ETFs (Exchange-traded fund) more attractive.
While personal investors now benefit from the reduced 38% exit tax rate, corporate investors in Irish funds and certain life assurance packages continue to enjoy a significantly lower 25% exit tax rate, a 13% point advantage.
Why this matters: For companies with surplus cash, investing at the corporate level offers both tax efficiency and convenience. Rather than extracting funds as salary or dividends (triggering personal tax rates up to 52%), retaining and investing cash corporately preserves more capital while maintaining liquidity for future business opportunities.
How it works: Corporate investors provide a prescribed declaration to the fund or life company to access the 25% rate. The fund handles the exit tax deduction (including on 8-year deemed disposals), and the company claims credit when filing its corporation tax return.
The right structure depends on your timeframe, succession plans, and the balance between personal wealth and business reinvestment. Many business owners find a blended approach offers optimal flexibility.
Fairstone’s role: Our investment specialists design personalised portfolios that align with your time horizon, risk profile, and long-term goals, integrating funds, ETFs, and alternative assets in a way that reflects your evolving financial picture. We help you determine the optimal structure for your investments, whether held personally, through your company, or across both.
Click the following link to read more about Investing in ETFs in Ireland in 2025
While no new income tax bands were introduced, bracket creep remains a concern. As wages rise and tax thresholds stay static, many professionals will find themselves paying higher effective tax rates, even without a formal increase.
For high earners, pension contributions, investment packages, and strategic income timing remain essential tools to manage exposure.
The rise in PRSI and introduction of auto-enrolment bring retirement planning back into focus. While these measures add cost, they also reinforce the value of personal pension planning for both employers and employees.
Whether you’re maximising your annual allowance, contributing through your company, or integrating pension assets into an overall investment plan, coordinated advice ensures your retirement savings work as hard as your business does.
Fairstone can help: We create comprehensive retirement and wealth accumulation strategies, blending pensions, investments, and protection plans to secure long-term financial independence.
For business owners preparing for exit, Budget 2026 offers a combination of continuity and opportunity. The enhanced Entrepreneur Relief remains one of the most effective tools for reducing tax on qualifying disposals, while the lower exit tax improves the investment landscape post-sale.
How Fairstone supports your next chapter:
Selling or transitioning a business is more than a transaction, it’s a pivotal life event. Fairstone’s advisers specialise in guiding entrepreneurs through that process with clarity and confidence.
Budget 2026 may not have delivered sweeping tax reform, but it creates space for structured, intelligent planning. For business owners and high-income earners, the real opportunity lies in strategic integration, ensuring every decision about your business, investments, and lifestyle works together.
At Fairstone, we help clients move from reacting to the Budget to planning proactively, making confident, informed choices about their business, wealth, and future.
Sources:
Gov.ie
Disclaimer:
This article is for general information purposes and is not an invitation to deal or address your specific requirements. Any expressions of opinions are subject to change without notice. The information disclosed should not be relied upon in their entirety and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute, advice. Although endeavours have been made to provide accurate and timely information of the various source material, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future.
Budget 2026 has been unveiled, marking a shift from short-term cost-of-living supports toward longer-term, structural measures designed to build a fairer and more resilient economy. This year’s €9.4 billion package focuses on steady increases to welfare and pensions, moderate tax adjustments to protect middle-income earners, and targeted incentives for businesses and innovation.
The Government has described this as a “responsible” budget, one that balances ongoing support for households with fiscal discipline as global growth slows. There are no one-off energy credits or emergency payments this time, but instead, permanent improvements in income supports, tax thresholds, and sectoral incentives.
In this article, we break down the main announcements from Budget 2026 and what they mean for individuals, families, and businesses across Ireland.
One of the most headline-grabbing announcements is the increase in the National Minimum Wage from €13.50 to €14.15 per hour, effective 1 January 2026. This 65-cent rise reflects the Low Pay Commission’s recommendation and continues the Government’s multi-year effort to move closer to a “living wage.”
To prevent this increase from pushing minimum-wage workers into higher Universal Social Charge (USC) liabilities, the 2 % USC band has been extended to €28,700. This means those earning the new minimum wage full-time will remain in the lower USC bracket and avoid a stealth tax increase.
At the same time, the Government announced a €10 weekly rise in all core social welfare and pension payments, benefiting more than 1.5 million people. These include the State Pension, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Carer’s Allowance and Disability Allowance.
What it means:
For workers on low or modest wages, these combined changes ensure that the minimum-wage uplift is not eroded by higher tax deductions. Pensioners and welfare recipients see steady, structural gains instead of short-term bonuses.
What it means:
Families with school-age children gain meaningful recurring relief rather than sporadic lump-sum supports. Expanding eligibility for the Working Family Payment and Fuel Allowance should help offset energy and childcare costs through the winter months.
Click the following link to read more about Saving for Education in Ireland
What it means:
While renters and mortgage holders see some continued relief, the Government’s emphasis has shifted toward supply-side measures, using tax incentives to make building and renovating homes more attractive. The new derelict property tax signals stronger policy action to bring idle properties back into use.
Click the following link to read more about What is the Help to Buy Scheme (HTB)
There are no sweeping income-tax cuts for 2026. Instead, the Government prioritised smaller, targeted changes designed to maintain fairness and prevent bracket creep:
A key feature of Budget 2026 is the reduction in the tax rate on investment returns, a move welcomed by savers and long-term investors. The tax on investment funds and life assurance savings products, commonly known as the exit tax, will fall from 41% to 38% from January 2026.
This marks the first reduction in over a decade and is designed to encourage personal saving and make domestic investment products more attractive compared to direct shareholdings, which are taxed under Capital Gains Tax rules.
The Government stated that this change reflects its goal of supporting financial resilience and rewarding long-term saving among households, while also aligning Ireland more closely with European norms for investment taxation.
What it means:
Together with the higher Entrepreneur Relief threshold and improved R&D tax credits, this change signals a clear pro-investment stance from the Government, intended to promote savings, innovation, and long-term capital formation.
What it means:
The overall tax direction is neutral, the Government’s focus is on preventing tax drag and supporting job-rich sectors, not cutting rates wholesale. Businesses in hospitality, energy and R&D stand to benefit most from targeted VAT and credit adjustments.
What it means:
These moves demonstrate Ireland’s ongoing commitment to innovation-led growth. SMEs benefit from greater liquidity through higher R&D refunds, while start-ups and scaling founders gain improved exit flexibility. Multinationals are also reassured by the continuation of SARP, reinforcing Ireland’s status as a competitive base for global talent.
The Department of Health budget increases to €27.3 billion, supporting new frontline staff recruitment, expanded disability services, and improvements in community and mental health care. Funding also targets waiting-list reduction and emergency-department capacity.
Education continues to receive strong prioritisation, with measures including:
What it means:
Investments in these core areas represent the Government’s strategy of long-term resilience building, more teachers, more hospital capacity, and more affordability for students rather than short-term financial relief.
In parallel with social and fiscal measures, the Budget reinforced Ireland’s climate commitments:
What it means:
Sustainability and regional development continue to underpin fiscal planning. Businesses in the green economy and construction sectors will find opportunities in energy efficiency and public works projects, while regional communities gain from infrastructure investment.
Budget 2026 will likely be remembered less for dramatic giveaways and more for measured, structural reforms that seek to balance social fairness with economic prudence. The focus on permanent welfare increases, childcare supports, sectoral VAT relief, and innovation incentives signals a government moving toward steady, predictable policymaking after several years of crisis-driven budgets.
For most households, it brings small but reliable improvements to disposable income. For businesses, especially in hospitality and technology, it offers practical tools to stabilise costs and invest for growth. For the broader economy, it reinforces a message of stability, prudent spending paired with targeted incentives.
At Fairstone, we can help you translate these announcements into practical steps: from adjusting payroll systems and business forecasts to personal tax planning and investment strategy. Contact us today to understand how Budget 2026’s measures can work for your goals, and to plan confidently for the year ahead.
Sources:
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Information as of 07/10/2025
Disclaimer:
This article does not constitute tax or legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in the future. This article is for general information purposes and is not an invitation to deal or address your specific requirements. The information disclosed should not be relied upon in their entirety. Although endeavours have been made to provide accurate and timely information of the various source material, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future.
Sending a child to college is one of the biggest financial commitments many parents in Ireland will face. Between the annual student contribution fee, rising rents, and general living costs, the total bill for a four-year degree can easily run into tens of thousands of euro. Saving for Education in Ireland for families with more than one child, these figures multiply quickly, making education planning an essential part of family financial planning.
In this guide, we break down the true cost of higher education in Ireland, when parents should start saving, the best ways to put money aside, and the tax and charges to be aware of. Whether your child is in preschool, secondary school, or already preparing for university, starting early and planning wisely can help you manage this significant expense.
How much you’ll spend depends on whether your child studies from home or moves out to attend university.
According to the most recent Irish Times and TU Dublin Cost of Living Guide:
For postgraduate study, costs are higher again. Many Master’s programmes range from €9,000 to €35,000 per year, excluding living expenses, books, laptops, and additional course fees.
And for families who choose private secondary schools before university, costs increase further. Some fee-charging schools cost €9,000 annually for day pupils, and boarding can reach €24,500 per year, before adding grinds, extracurriculars, and trips.
It’s clear that education is one of the largest long-term costs a family will face, but unlike other expenses, you know the timeline from day one, which makes planning possible.
Education is predictable. You know your child will likely begin college at 18, so you have nearly two decades to prepare. The earlier you start saving for education in Ireland, the easier it will be to spread the cost and benefit from compounding growth.
Take the Child Benefit payment of €140 per month. If you set it aside every month until your child turns 18, you’d save €30,240. If invested with an average annual return of 5%, this could grow to nearly €48,500, enough to cover most undergraduate costs for a child living at home, or a significant portion if they live away.
Delaying until secondary school is still worthwhile but reduces your time horizon. In that case, your options may lean more towards deposit savings or larger monthly contributions to catch up.
Starting early also means you can explore a wider range of saving and investment strategies, tailored to your risk profile and timeline.
Deposit and fixed-term savings accounts are low-risk and simple to manage. However, interest rates are generally low, and inflation can erode the value of money over time. For example, according to The Irish Times:
These are best for short-term savings, particularly if your child is close to college age.
For longer-term goals (five years or more), investment funds can help your money grow faster than inflation.
For example, if you contribute €250 per month for 18 years with a gross annual return of 6% (before fees or taxes), you could build a fund worth about €76,072. By comparison, the same contributions without investment growth would amount to €54,000.
Many providers offer education-focused investment products (regular savings plans or lump-sum investment funds offered by Irish life insurers and investment providers). Minimum contributions typically start at €125/month or €20,000 lump sums.
While investing carries risk, markets have historically outperformed cash savings over the long term, making this a suitable option if you start early.
Redirecting Child Benefit directly into a savings or investment plan is one of the simplest and most effective ways to fund education costs. It’s regular, untaxed income from the government, and aligns perfectly with the 18-year timeframe before third-level education.
Parents and grandparents can each give up to €3,000 per year per child tax-free (€6,000 per couple). Over time, and if invested, these contributions can make a substantial impact on education savings.
Click the following link to read more about Small Gift Exemption
If you choose investment-based savings, be aware of the associated costs:
When comparing providers, always check the allocation rate (the percentage of your contribution actually invested) and factor in charges, as they can significantly affect your final return.
Not every parent has the chance to save for 18 years. If your child is already in college, there are still ways to manage costs:
Small, consistent steps can add up to big results when spread across 10–18 years.
Education is one of the few major expenses you can plan for decades in advance. But with multiple saving options, tax rules, and investment products, making the right choice can be complex.
A financial adviser can help you:
At Fairstone, we offer expert financial planning tailored to your circumstances. Whether you are just starting to save for a newborn, planning for private secondary school, or already funding a college student, we can help you put a clear, tax-efficient strategy in place. With our support, you can fund your child’s education with confidence while protecting your long-term financial wellbeing.
Sources:
Revenue.ie
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This publication is for general information purposes and is not an invitation to deal or address your specific requirements. Any expressions of opinions are subject to change without notice. The information disclosed should not be relied upon in their entirety and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute, advice. Although endeavours have been made to provide accurate and timely information of the various source material, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future.
If you’ve recently sold a property, gifted an asset, or made a profitable investment, you may be wondering: What is Capital Gains Tax? In Ireland, Capital Gains Tax (CGT) applies when you dispose of an asset and make a profit or “gain” from that transaction. Disposing of an asset doesn’t only mean selling it, it can also include gifting, exchanging, or receiving insurance or compensation for it. Understanding how much is capital gains tax in Ireland, how to calculate it, and how to pay Capital Gains Tax in Ireland is essential to avoid unexpected tax bills.
This article explains what is Capital Gains Tax Ireland, who must pay it, what exemptions apply (including the 7-year Capital Gains Tax exemption), and the importance of seeking professional advice.
Capital Gains Tax (CGT) is a tax you pay on the profit you make when disposing of an asset. The chargeable gain is the difference between the amount you received and the amount you originally paid for the asset, minus any allowable expenses (like solicitor fees or improvement costs).
You may be liable for CGT when you:
CGT is not charged on the entire sale amount—only on the profit made, after deducting allowable costs.
The standard Capital Gains Tax rate in Ireland is 33%. However, there are exceptions:
These rates apply to the taxable gain after you’ve deducted any exemptions, reliefs, or allowable expenses.
Any individual (resident or non-resident), trust, or company who makes a chargeable gain must pay CGT. If you jointly own an asset, each person pays CGT on their share of the gain.
Non-resident individuals are only liable for CGT on:
There are several Capital Gains Tax Ireland exemptions. Some of the most important include:
Each individual has an annual CGT allowance: the first €1,270 of taxable gains in a tax year are exempt from CGT. Married couples or civil partners can each claim this allowance, but it cannot be transferred between you.
Transfers of assets between spouses or civil partners (including after separation or divorce under they are made under a Separation Agreement or a court order) are fully exempt from CGT.
If you sell your main home, you may be exempt from CGT. This exemption may also apply to:
Restrictions may apply depending on the duration and extent of your residence.
If you’re over 55 and selling a farm or business, Retirement Relief may reduce or eliminate your CGT bill, even if you’re not retiring.
Read more about Retirement Relief for Business Owners in this link
If you dispose of land or buildings bought between 7 December 2011 and 31 December 2014, and held them for at least 4 years, you may be eligible for partial or full relief:
You don’t pay CGT on gains from:
Many people ask: How do I calculate Capital Gains Tax?
1. Determine the sale price or market value (for gifts/inherited assets).
2. Subtract the purchase price.
3. Deduct allowable expenses, such as:
4. Apply any reliefs or exemptions (e.g., €1,270 personal allowance).
5. Multiply the remaining taxable gain by the appropriate CGT rate (usually 33%).
You must pay online through:
If you qualify for exemption from online filing, payments can be made via post using CGT Payslip From A or B or email the Payment Accounting section of the Collector-General’s Division.
You must file a return even if no CGT is due. The filing deadline is 31 October of the year following the disposal.
Forms can be filed via ROS or posted to your local Revenue office.
You can use capital losses to reduce your gains in the same tax year subject to certain exceptions. Unused losses can be carried forward to future years, but not back to previous ones.
You may need to pay CGT on the sale of a second home, investment property, or land. Always check if Principal Private Residence Relief applies.
Selling shares, whether in Irish or foreign companies, can trigger CGT. If the shares were inherited, your base cost is the market value at the date of inheritance.
Making informed financial decisions can be complex, especially when they involve tax implications, investment planning, and long-term financial goals. That’s why it’s essential to seek professional advice.
Before taking any action, make sure to get appropriate tax advice to understand the implications for your individual circumstances. Once your tax position is clear, Fairstone can support you in building a tailored financial plan that aligns with your goals and helps secure your financial future.
Book today a no-obligation financial planning consultation with Fairstone. Our expert advisers are here to guide you through each stage, ensuring your plan is both effective and tax-efficient.
Sources:
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Disclaimer:
Information as of 26/06/2025
This article does not constitute tax advice and should not be relied upon as such. Tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in the future. For guidance, seek professional, independent tax advice. Although endeavours have been made to provide accurate and timely information of the various source material, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future.
The journey to leadership is often fraught with unique challenges, especially for women. Despite progress in gender parity, women remain underrepresented in senior management roles globally. In Ireland, for instance, the Grant Thornton Women in Business 2024 report highlights that only 33% of senior management roles are held by women. As women continue to break barriers in business, financial planning becomes a critical tool to help them balance career ambitions, wealth accumulation, and personal life goals.
This blog explores the importance of financial planning for women in leadership, addressing the unique challenges they face and offering actionable insights to achieve financial independence and security.
Despite strides toward gender equality, the lack of women in senior management remains a persistent issue. The Grant Thornton Women in Business 2024 report reveals that while progress has been made, women still face systemic barriers, including unconscious bias and limited access to mentorship opportunities. In Ireland, the numbers are improving but still fall short of true gender parity.
Research consistently shows that diversity in leadership drives better business performance. Companies with gender-diverse leadership teams are more innovative, financially successful, and better equipped to navigate complex challenges. Achieving gender parity in leadership is not just a moral imperative but a business necessity.
Women in leadership often face unique financial challenges, including the gender pay gap, career interruptions for caregiving, and longer life expectancies. These factors can significantly impact their ability to build wealth and achieve long-term financial security.
The gender pay gap remains a significant barrier for women in leadership. On average, women earn less than men, which affects their ability to save and invest for the future. Closing this gap is essential for achieving financial equality.
Many women take career breaks to care for children or ageing parents, which can disrupt their earning potential and retirement savings. Effective financial planning can help mitigate the impact of these interruptions by creating a safety net and ensuring continued financial growth.
Women generally live longer than men, which means they need to plan for a longer retirement period. This requires careful financial planning to ensure that savings and investments last throughout their lifetime.
Women in leadership roles often juggle demanding careers with personal responsibilities, such as raising children or caring for ageing parents. Effective financial planning helps them balance these competing priorities while ensuring their financial goals remain on track.
Start by creating a comprehensive financial plan that includes budgeting, saving, and investing. A solid financial foundation provides the stability needed to pursue long-term goals, such as retirement planning or funding a child’s education.
Budgeting is the cornerstone of financial planning. It helps you track your income and expenses, identify areas for savings, and allocate funds toward your financial goals. Building an emergency fund is also crucial to cover unexpected expenses without derailing your financial plan.
Women often tend to be more risk-averse when it comes to investing. However, investing is essential for wealth accumulation. Consider working with a financial advisor to develop an investment strategy aligned with your risk tolerance and financial goals.
Diversifying your investment portfolio can help mitigate risks and maximise returns. A mix of stocks, bonds, and other assets can provide a balanced approach to growing your wealth over time.
With longer life expectancies, women need to plan for a retirement that could last 30 years or more. Maximise contributions to retirement accounts and explore additional savings vehicles to ensure a comfortable retirement.
Take full advantage of employer-sponsored pension plans and consider additional retirement savings options, such as personal pensions or Additional Voluntary Contributions (AVCs). Regularly review your retirement plan to ensure it aligns with your long-term goals.
Insurance is a critical component of financial planning. Ensure you have adequate coverage, including life, health, and disability insurance, to protect your wealth and provide for your loved ones in case of unforeseen events.
Estate planning is another essential aspect of protecting your wealth. Creating a will and setting up trusts can ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and provide for your family’s future.
Navigating the complexities of financial planning can be overwhelming. A financial advisor can provide tailored advice to help you achieve your goals, whether it’s growing your wealth, planning for retirement, or balancing career and life priorities.
A financial advisor can help you create a personalised financial plan that addresses your unique circumstances and goals. They can also provide ongoing support and guidance to help you stay on track and adapt your plan as your needs evolve.
Financial planning is not a one-size-fits-all process. For women in leadership, the complexities of balancing career, wealth, and life goals require a personalised approach. Seeking professional financial advice ensures that your financial plan is tailored to your unique circumstances and goals.
At Fairstone Ireland, we understand the challenges women in leadership face. Our team of experienced financial advisors provides tailored financial advice to help you achieve financial independence and security. Whether you’re planning for retirement, investing for the future, or balancing competing priorities, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
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This article is for general information purposes and is not an invitation to deal or address your specific requirements.
Financial planning is a critical step in securing your financial future, whether you’re planning for retirement, managing investments, or navigating life’s unexpected challenges. For many, the idea of meeting with a financial advisor in Ireland can feel daunting, but understanding what to expect from a financial planning consultation can help you approach the process with confidence. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through what a financial planning consultation typically involves, why it matters, and how it can benefit you.
Before diving into the consultation process, it’s important to understand what a financial advisor does. A financial advisor, also known as a financial consultant or financial planner, is a professional who provides expert guidance on managing your finances. Their role is to help you make informed decisions about your money, whether it’s planning for retirement, investing, saving for a major life goal, or protecting your wealth.
In Ireland, financial planners work closely with clients to create tailored strategies that align with their unique financial goals and circumstances. From Irish pensions and finance to investment management, a financial advisor can offer comprehensive support to help you achieve financial stability and growth.
The first step in the financial planning process is preparation. Before meeting with a financial advisor, it’s helpful to gather relevant documents and information. This might include:
Having this information ready will allow your financial consultant to gain a clear understanding of your current financial position and provide more accurate advice.
The consultation typically begins with a thorough review of your current financial situation. Your financial advisor will ask questions about your income, expenses, assets, and liabilities. This helps them understand your financial health and identify any areas that may need attention.
For example, if you’re based in Ireland, your advisor may discuss your Irish pensions, savings, and investments to assess how well they align with your goals. This step is crucial for creating a financial plan that is both realistic and effective.*
*Fairstone Ireland can only provide advice to Irish residents. We are not authorised to transact business for non-residents or offer advice on non-Irish pensions or investments.
Next, your financial planner will work with you to define your financial goals. These could include saving for a home, funding your children’s education, planning for retirement, or building an investment portfolio.
By understanding your aspirations, your advisor can tailor their recommendations to suit your needs. Whether you’re looking for short-term solutions or long-term financial planning in Ireland, this step ensures that your plan is aligned with your priorities.
During the consultation, your financial advisor will also identify potential challenges that could impact your financial future. This might include market volatility, inflation, or changes in tax legislation.
Additionally, a critical challenge to address is protection against unexpected events such as accidents, illness, or injury, which could derail your financial goals. Your advisor can recommend strategies to safeguard your income and ensure you’re prepared for life’s uncertainties.
At the same time, they will highlight opportunities to grow your wealth, such as tax-efficient investments or strategies to maximise your Irish pensions. By addressing both challenges and opportunities, your advisor can help you build a resilient financial plan.
Based on the information gathered, your financial consultant will create a customised financial plan tailored to your unique circumstances. This plan may include:
Your financial planner will explain each aspect of the plan in detail, ensuring you understand how it works and how it will help you achieve your goals.
A key part of the consultation is addressing any questions or concerns you may have. Whether you’re unsure about the best way to invest or want to know more about Irish pensions and finance, your advisor is there to provide clear, expert guidance.
This is also an opportunity to discuss any changes in your life that might affect your financial plan, such as a new job, marriage, or the birth of a child.
Read more about Financial Planning for Major Life Transitions in the following link.
Seeking expert financial advice is crucial for making informed decisions about your money. A financial advisor in Ireland can provide valuable insights and strategies that you may not have considered on your own. Here are some reasons why professional financial planning matters:
Every individual’s financial situation is unique. A financial consultant can create a plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals, ensuring you get the most out of your money.
Financial planners in Ireland have in-depth knowledge of the local market, pension options, and investment opportunities. This expertise allows them to provide advice that is both relevant and effective.
By working with a financial advisor, you can build a plan that not only addresses your immediate needs but also secures your financial future. Whether it’s planning for retirement or protecting your wealth, expert advice can help you achieve long-term stability.
Knowing that your finances are in good hands can provide significant peace of mind. With a clear plan in place, you can focus on enjoying life without worrying about money.
At Fairstone, we understand that financial planning is about more than just numbers—it’s about helping you achieve your dreams and secure your future. Our team of expert financial advisors in Ireland is dedicated to providing personalised, professional advice that meets your unique needs.
Whether you’re looking to grow your wealth, plan for retirement, or navigate a major life change, we’re here to help. Our comprehensive approach to financial planning ensures that every aspect of your finances is considered, from Irish pensions to investments and wealth protection.
Get in touch with Fairstone today to book a no-obligation financial planning consultation and take the first step toward achieving your financial goals. With our expert guidance, you can transform uncertainty into opportunity and build a brighter financial future.
Fairstone Ireland does not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. For more information, please consult a qualified tax professional.
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Understanding Bare Trusts in Ireland: Planning For Your Family’s Future
In today’s evolving financial landscape, many Irish families are seeking effective ways to secure their children’s financial future. Bare trusts in Ireland have emerged as a popular and efficient solution, offering a structured approach to wealth transfer while maintaining tax efficiency. Whether you’re planning for education costs, a future house deposit, or general wealth building, understanding how bare trusts work in Ireland is essential for making informed decisions.
A bare trust, also known as a simple trust or naked trust, is a straightforward legal arrangement where a trustee holds and manages assets on behalf of a beneficiary. Think of it as a protected financial container where assets are held by a trusted guardian until the beneficiary is ready to take control.
Key elements of this structure are:
Establishing a bare trust requires careful planning and usually involves several key steps:
Understanding the tax implications is crucial for maximising the benefits of a bare trust in Ireland. The tax framework offers several advantages that make bare trusts particularly attractive for family wealth planning.
One of the most valuable features is the Small Gift Exemption, which allows:
The CAT system operates on a tiered structure based on relationships:
Any gifts exceeding these thresholds are taxed at 33% on the excess amount only.
* The Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT) thresholds mentioned are not an exhaustive list and are subject to change. For the most up-to-date and comprehensive information we recommend visiting the Revenue Commissioners website: www.revenue.ie.
Bare trusts can serve multiple purposes in financial planning:
Before establishing a bare trust, consider these key points:
*Always consult a qualified professional for personalised tax advice.
While the structure of a bare trust is straightforward, successful implementation requires careful planning:
At Fairstone, we specialise in helping families navigate the complexities of bare trusts while maximising their benefits. Our expert wealth management advisors can help you design appropriate trust structures, implement effective investment strategies, ensure tax efficiency* and plan for long-term success.
Whether you’re looking to secure your children’s financial future, plan for education costs, or create a structured wealth transfer strategy, our team can guide you through the process of establishing and managing a bare trust that meets your family’s needs.
To learn how we can help you create a secure financial future for your loved ones through strategic bare trust planning book a no-obligation financial planning consultation today. Our comprehensive approach ensures that your family’s financial planning goals are met while maximising available tax benefits and maintaining full compliance with Irish regulations.
*Always consult a qualified professional for personalised tax advice.
Source:
Revenue.ie
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