Better With Money

Ireland’s new personal investment account is designed as a tax-advantaged way to hold stocks, funds, bonds and ETFs. This episode unpacks the €12,000 annual cap, the €50,000 tax-free threshold, and why the 1% charge above that level may matter more than it first appears.

Health insurance costs are rising, and this episode focuses on practical ways to pay less without making costly mistakes. Dermot Goode explains where people overspend, how to switch smarter, and which plan features can quietly affect value.

Ireland’s proposed state-backed investment scheme is starting to take shape, with tax-free investing up to a threshold, no fixed lock-in period, and tax reporting handled by financial institutions. This episode focuses on the details now confirmed, the big unanswered questions, and what to watch for on budget day.

Derelict and vacant homes are put under the microscope as a possible route to home ownership for first-time buyers. The episode weighs the appeal of a fixer-upper against the financial reality, with practical insight on budgeting, mortgages, and retrofit grants.

ETFs are the focus here, as Kevin Elliott tackles a question many investors are asking: invest now or hold off for the government’s planned personal investment account. He also weighs whether the scheme is likely to help “middle Ireland” and how it may compare with UK and Swedish versions.