Insights
Commentary and updates from across the group
Thought leadership, practical guidance and expert perspectives — what's happening, what it means for your business, and what to do next.
HLB Ireland
Navigating liquidation: avoidable pitfalls for directors under pressure
Directors often misstep during insolvency not through bad faith, but through lack of preparation. Peter Dawson of HLB Ireland sets out ten of the most common and most avoidable mistakes.
Built to Grow: The New Economics of Scaling an Early Learning and Childcare Business in Ireland
This is the uncomfortable truth of the sector. The Minister for Children, Disability & Equality has acknowledged that ELC facilities have licensed capacity for some 17,000 additional children but these places cannot be filled due to staff
10 Key Questions in focus for any Director entering a liquidation
In any corporate insolvency, the spotlight inevitably turns to director conduct. Beyond the immediate financial collapse lies a broader question: whether those charged with stewardship acted in a manner consistent with their duties to creditors, employees, and other stakeholders. Liquidation is seldom the result of a single event; rather, it reflects a series of decisions, behaviours, and governance practices that unfold over time.
Client Testimonial – Whelehans Wines
At HLB Ireland, we believe outsourcing should feel like an extension of your own team – seamless, dependable, and fully aligned with your business goals.
Unlock the Value of Your Childcare Business with Expert Guidance
Ireland’s early learning and childcare sector is going through the biggest ownership shift in its history. Ireland has over 4,000 registered early learning and childcare services and between 70% and 80% of them are family businesses built up over years by people who answered a need in their community rather than set out to build an institutional-scale operation.
2025 – 2026 Veterinary Practice Report
This year’s survey provides a clear view of a sector undergoing rapid change. Key findings include:
Should SMEs Switch to Online Accounting? Simplify with HLB
Irish small businesses are experiencing a digital transformation revolution in financial management. The shift from traditional desktop accounting software to cloud-based platforms like Xero has become not just advantageous but essential for survival and growth in today's competitive landscape.
Leveraging AI to transform Ireland's tech sector
Even amid global uncertainty, Ireland's technology sector remains upbeat — with 64% of firms now deploying AI, up from 22% a year earlier, and cybersecurity front and centre.
Ireland’s Auto-Enrolment System: Key Payroll Changes Employers Must Prepare For
Early preparation matters. From assessing financial impact to updating payroll systems, now is the time to plan ahead. Download HLB's auto-enrolment guide to understand what’s changing and how you can get your payroll systems ready in advance, so you can stay compliant, manage costs, and communicate confidently with your teams.
Payroll Health Checks for Irish Businesses
Payroll is one of the most important processes in any business, and a regular payroll health check can help. Payroll done correctly ensures staff are paid on time, taxes are reported accurately, and your company stays compliant with Revenue requirements. However, payroll is also one of the most complex areas of finance, and even minor mistakes can result in costly penalties or employee dissatisfaction.
Benefits of Outsourcing Your Business’ Finance Function
For many small and medium-sized businesses in Ireland, managing finances in-house can quickly become overwhelming. What begins as a few invoices and tax filings soon evolves into payroll processing, VAT returns, management reporting, and compliance with ever-changing regulations. The result is that owners and managers spend valuable time buried in spreadsheets instead of focusing on growth.
Can Tax Policy Encourage Philanthropy in the Arts?
From world-class animation studios to independent theatres, museums, and galleries, Ireland is putting itself on the map alongside art hubs like Hollywood and New York City, and holding its own.
Pay Gap Reporting for Companies with 50 or More Employees: What You Need to Know
From this year, businesses in Ireland with 50 or more employees must report their gender pay gap. This requirement is no longer just for large employers. The scope has widened, and so has the expectation that businesses demonstrate transparency, fairness and progress.
47% of Business Leaders Say Cash Flow Is a Top Concern. What Irish Tech Firms Need to Consider
HLB Ireland’s Jack Sheehan shares practical advice for ambitious tech businesses navigating financial growing pains.
HLB Survey of Business Leaders 2025
Dublin, 24th April 2025 — Irish business leaders are showing greater optimism about future growth than peers across the UK, EU and North America, according to the HLB Survey of Business Leaders 2025. The data found that 86% of Irish executives expected revenue to rise over the next 12 months — significantly above the global average.
Foreign Investors Driving Buoyant Irish M&A Market – Why Local Expertise is Key
Ireland’s mergers and acquisitions (M&A) market is thriving, with foreign investors driving a significant portion of deal activity. In 2024 alone, overseas buyers were behind 239 of the 462 completed transactions, a clear sign that Ireland remains a key destination for international investment.
Bruce Stanley Appointed to Lead HLB International’s Arts & Entertainment Group
Bruce Stanley commented on his appointment: “The arts and entertainment industries are more globally interconnected than ever. Through HLB’s international network, we can assist clients in navigating the complexities of finance, tax, and investment across multiple jurisdictions. I am excited to lead this initiative, bringing together experts from around the world to deliver real value to the sector. Whether working with emerging talent or global stars, we concentrate on helping creatives and businesses thrive in an increasingly complex landscape."
Hospitality Sector Must Act Now to Prepare for Pension Auto-Enrolment
The hospitality sector, already grappling with tight margins and staffing challenges, now faces additional payroll costs starting at 1.5% of gross salaries (capped at €80,000 per employee) in year one, rising to 6% within a decade.
Hospitality Sector Faces Mounting Cost Pressures as Minimum Wage Rises Again in 2025
Dublin, March 4th – Ireland’s hospitality sector is under increasing financial pressure following the latest rise in the national minimum wage, which jumped from €12.70 to €13.50 per hour on 1 January 2025. With further increases expected as the government moves towards a living wage of which currently stands at €14.75, significantly above the current minimum wage, businesses in the sector—already grappling with tight margins and staffing challenges—must take urgent action to manage rising payroll costs.
Ireland’s Veterinary Sector: A Growing Hub of Corporate Interest
Ireland’s veterinary sector is experiencing remarkable growth and attracting substantial interest from domestic and international corporate entities. This surge is driven by increased pet ownership, advancements in veterinary medicine, and a robust agricultural industry. As the sector evolves, Ireland is positioning itself as a key player in the global veterinary market, offering significant opportunities for investment, innovation, and collaboration.
New Tax Changes for Landlords: Understanding the Residential Premises Rental Income Relief
Starting from 2024, individual landlords can claim a tax credit on rental income from residential properties. The annual relief amounts are:
Revolutionising Finance: How AI is Shaping the Future of the Financial Sector
The financial sector is experiencing a profound transformation and with the anticipated release of Chat GPT 5, Artificial Intelligence (AI) leading the charge. Technologies like ChatGPT are setting new benchmarks, redefining everything from investment strategies to operational processes. As AI becomes embedded in financial systems, organisations can make sharper decisions, manage risks more effectively, and position themselves for long-term success.
Ireland’s New Participation Exemption Explained
Ireland’s participation exemption is a landmark development in our tax framework, designed to enhance Ireland’s appeal as a leading global hub for business. This exemption eliminates Irish corporation tax on qualifying foreign dividends and capital gains from substantial shareholdings, offering clarity and certainty to companies with international operations.
HLB Strengthens Leadership Team with Four New Director Appointments
Dublin, Ireland – 6th Jan 2025 – HLB Ireland, a leading firm of accountants, tax advisors, and business consultants, is pleased to announce the appointment of four new directors, further enhancing its ability to support clients across a wide range of services.
Auto-Enrolment and Essential Payroll Updates
Several key changes in employment law come into effect that employers need to be aware of. These updates impact employee benefits, pensions, wages, and compliance obligations. Here's a summary of the most critical updates here:
HLB Cyber News Insights January 2025
Ireland’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has reported a marked rise in cybersecurity threats, with 721 confirmed incidents last year. This resulted in 309 investigations, highlighting the increasing need for robust cybersecurity measures across all sectors.
R&D Tax Credits: Submit Your Claim by 31 December 2024
For tech companies, staying ahead means constant innovation – and that innovation could be worth more than you think. The Research & Development (R&D) tax credit is a powerful incentive to reward companies engaged in qualifying R&D activities. At HLB Ireland, we have worked extensively with the tech sector and understand how impactful this relief can be.
Retiring to Ireland: A Guide for U.S. Citizens
Considering retirement in Ireland? This scenic and culturally rich country offers a wonderful backdrop for your retirement years. However, moving countries involves intricate tax and compliance planning.
HLB Ireland Proudly Backs Focus Ireland’s Sponsor a Star Campaign
HLB Ireland is committed to maintaining Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and has embarked on various significant initiatives throughout the year. Our continuous commitment to supporting Focus Ireland is at the core of these efforts. We are delighted to reaffirm our sponsorship for a star on their Christmas tree.
HLB Sustainability Report 2024
In today's business landscape, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting has become more than another compliance exercise. For growth-oriented businesses, it is a strategic imperative as companies that embrace ESG practices and report them transparently are increasingly rewarded by investors, consumers, and regulators alike.
HLB Cyber News Insights November 2024
A new report from HLB Ireland shows that 86% of businesses are now more worried about cyber threats than ever before. Concerns are rising as ransomware attacks, phishing scams, and other cyber risks continue to grow in frequency and sophistication. Despite these dangers, many businesses still lack adequate defences, leaving them vulnerable. The report stresses the need for companies to strengthen their cybersecurity measures and build resilience against future attacks.
HLB Report Reveals 86% of Businesses Fear Rising Cyber Threats
Dublin, Ireland—HLB Ireland has released its 2024 Cybersecurity Report, shedding light on the increasing concerns of Irish businesses amid a growing cyber threat landscape. The findings underscore the urgency for enterprises to prioritise robust security frameworks and enhance their resilience in the face of evolving risks.
HLB Cybersecurity Report 2024
In a world increasingly shaped by digital transformation, understanding the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity is crucial for business leaders and decision-makers.
Budget Highlights 2025: Insights for your business
The Key Tax Changes: Threshold Increases for Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT) Group A beneficiaries will see their threshold…
HLB Cyber News Insights September 2024
Research reveals nearly two-thirds of Irish adults have fallen victim to phishing attempts, making Ireland the most phished country in the world. Phishing involves sending deceptive emails to trick individuals into disclosing personal data, and the rate in Ireland is almost twice the global average. The findings, part of the WIN World Survey on data collection and AI, highlight that over one in five Irish adults have experienced credit card fraud or bank account hacking, which is also nearly double the global rate. Despite these high fraud levels, only 23% of Irish citizens are aware of how their personal information is handled by data collectors. Furthermore, knowledge of artificial intelligence in Ireland is lower than the global average, with only 21% expressing a strong understanding. The alarming statistics underscore an urgent need for improved cybersecurity education and stronger government interventions to safeguard against such threats.
HLB Ireland Announces Latest Merger with Lowry Chartered Accountants
Today, HLB Ireland, Accounting & Advisory, has announced a merger with Lowry Chartered Accountants. Effective immediately, the combined entity will operate as HLB Ireland.
HLB Cyber News Insights August 2024
A recent survey reveals that around one-third of Irish businesses have allocated funds specifically to pay cyber ransoms, reflecting the growing threat of cyberattacks. This trend highlights the increasing financial burden and risk associated with cybercrime, as companies are not only focusing on preventive measures but also preparing for potential ransom demands. The findings underscore the need for enhanced cybersecurity strategies to mitigate these risks and protect business assets from evolving cyber threats.
Top 9 FAQs for Aspiring Accountancy Graduates in Ireland
Embarking on a career in accountancy or tax is an exciting journey, filled with opportunities for growth, learning, and professional development. HLB Ireland, a leading accountancy and advisory firm, offers a dynamic and supportive environment for graduates and interns to flourish.
Richael Timothy Qualifies for Paris Paralympics 2024
Richael Timothy, an Irish para-cycling athlete, has qualified to represent Ireland at the Paris Paralympic Games next month, showcasing her dedication and resilience.
HLB Cyber News Insights July 2024
In 2023, Irish SMEs experienced significant financial losses, amounting to €10 million, due to email-related scams. These fraudulent activities have highlighted the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures within the sector. Cybercriminals primarily exploited phishing and business email compromise (BEC) techniques to deceive businesses. Experts urge SMEs to invest in robust email security systems, employee training, and to remain vigilant against suspicious emails. The rising trend in cyber threats underscores the importance of proactive cybersecurity strategies to safeguard financial assets and maintain business integrity.
FutureRange
FutureRange Acquires Echo IT
We’re pleased to share that Echo I.T. has joined FutureRange, marking our second acquisition of 2026 and further strengthening our presence across Munster.
FutureRange Featured on the Uncle Marv Podcast at Zero Trust World 2026
FutureRange MD Danny McEntee joined Marvin Bee of the Uncle Marv Podcast at Zero Trust World 2026 in Florida – one of the leading cybersecurity events of the year, bringing together MSPs and security professionals from across the globe.
FutureRange becomes an all-island business with EOS Systems
EOS Systems, a Northern Ireland IT services company, joins FutureRange — extending the group's security-first managed services across the whole island, with up to 50 new roles planned.
FutureRange acquires DigitalWell’s Managed IT Services business in first post-investment deal
FutureRange has acquired the Managed IT Services division of DigitalWell, a move that expands its national presence and strengthens its engineering capabilities. The deal adds 18 experienced engineers and a significant portfolio of long-standing clients, immediately creating an additional 10 new roles across service delivery, account management, and engineering.
FutureRange Announces Key Leadership Appointments
Dublin, 30th January 2025: FutureRange, a leader in Technology, Cloud and Cybersecurity solutions is delighted to announce two pivotal leadership appointments: Danny McEntee has been appointed as Managing Director, and Michael Rooney has transitioned to the role of Chief Technology Officer. These strategic changes signal a new phase of growth and innovation for the company, reinforcing its commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions for clients across sectors such as food, manufacturing, healthcare, credit unions, and professional services.
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