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Explore industry news, insights, and updates from the Irish Accountancy Awards.
Finance Rising
The finance sector is evolving beyond balance sheets and benchmarks. It is now defined by education, innovation, and the emergence of a new generation of leaders who see finance not just as an industry, but as an instrument for progress. In Fidelity invests $1.4 million to advance finance education at Lang School, the spotlight falls on how strategic philanthropy is fuelling the next wave of financial literacy and capability. Such investments are reshaping how young professionals engage with markets and institutions. Meanwhile, Lloyd’s partners with Ireland to drive insurtech innovation illustrates the industry’s renewed focus on technology as a growth catalyst. Collaboration between traditional insurers and digital pioneers signals a more agile, data-driven future for risk management. Recognition of individual achievement completes this picture. In Nifemi Ogunbiyi named Rising Star Accountant of the Year at Irish Accountancy Awards 2025, excellence and ambition converge, reflecting a sector committed to nurturing its brightest minds. These stories capture finance’s forward momentum through a blend of learning, innovation, and leadership that shape tomorrow’s economy.
Nifemi Ogunbiyi named Rising Star Accountant of the Year at Irish Accountancy Awards 2025
Fenergo’s Nifemi Ogunbiyi was recognised with the Rising Star Accountant of the Year award at the Irish Accountancy Awards, marking her as one of the most promising talents in the profession.
SEC enhances support for US Treasury central clearing
The US SEC has strengthened guidance for broker-dealers and market participants transitioning to central clearing of US Treasury securities. A dedicated webpage provides updates, staff statements, FAQs, and regulatory filings, supporting transparency, operational readiness, and smooth implementation of the Treasury clearing rules.
Fidelity invests $1.4 million to advance finance education at Lang School
Fidelity Investments Canada has contributed $1.4 million to the University of Guelph’s Lang School of Business and Economics. The funding establishes a named chair in finance and enhances experiential learning, equipping students with skills in AI, data, and global financial markets.
Credit unions gain expanded lending capacity under new rules
The Central Bank of Ireland’s updated credit union lending framework comes into effect, raising home loan limits to 30% and business loan limits to 15% of total assets. The changes aim to expand lending capacity, increase market competition, and diversify financial services nationwide.
Ardian’s €2.5bn Energia deal fuels Ireland’s AI-driven energy boom
Ardian’s €2.5bn acquisition of Energia Group marks a major play in Ireland’s energy and AI landscape. The deal highlights underscores how investors are repositioning for the next phase of Europe’s digital and green transformation.
Lloyd’s partners with Ireland to drive insurtech innovation
Lloyd’s and Ireland’s Department of Finance are partnering to launch an Irish-themed cohort within the Lloyd’s Lab Accelerator Programme in 2026. The initiative aims to promote insurtech innovation, strengthen market resilience, and showcase Ireland’s expertise to the global insurance community.
Strategic Finance
The accountancy sector is once again demonstrating its dual role as both steward of financial stability and driver of strategic progress. This edition underscores the importance of resilience, innovation, and leadership in navigating today’s evolving landscape. Recognition of professional excellence is clear as Feargal McCormack sets a benchmark in the Accountancy Awards, reflecting the high standards shaping Ireland’s financial community. Such recognition not only honours achievement but also reinforces the profession’s role in embedding trust and integrity across markets. Global pressures are also evident. Investor confidence dipping to its lowest level in five years underscores the challenges posed by volatility, requiring firms to adopt strategies that prioritise stability while maintaining flexibility. At the same time, opportunity is emerging as Ireland becomes more attractive for private credit funds, positioning the country as a hub for alternative finance. Together, these themes reveal a sector defined not only by external conditions but by its capacity to lead with foresight. The future of accountancy lies in turning uncertainty into advantage through strategy and sustainable practice.
Feargal McCormack sets benchmark for excellence in Irish Accountancy Awards ‘25
Feargal McCormack was recognised with the Outstanding Contribution to Accountancy award at the Irish Accountancy Awards 2025, an accolade that underlines his enduring influence on the profession and beyond.
Europe struggles to boost the Euro’s global influence
European Central Bank chief Christine Lagarde has called for decisive action to strengthen the euro’s global role. Political divisions, fragmented capital markets, and delays on joint debt and a digital euro threaten Europe’s ability to challenge the dollar and boost investor confidence.


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