Declan Ó Riain
Market Analysis LeadSpent fifteen years analyzing equity markets before moving into education. Good at breaking down complex financial reports into information you can actually use.
Build Your Investment Knowledge from the Ground Up
Markets change. Investment strategies evolve. But understanding the fundamentals gives you a solid foundation that lasts. Our programme helps you make sense of investing without the jargon or confusion.
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What's Actually Happening in Investment Markets
The investment world in 2025 looks different than it did even two years ago. Understanding current trends helps you spot opportunities and avoid common pitfalls.
2025 Trend
Digital Assets Mature
Cryptocurrency and blockchain technology have moved past the hype phase. Institutional adoption means these assets are treated more seriously, but that doesn't mean they're risk-free. We'll help you understand what's real and what's still speculation.
Current Focus
Sustainability Investing
ESG criteria aren't just marketing anymore. Companies with strong environmental and social practices often show better long-term performance. But greenwashing is real, so you need to know how to evaluate these claims properly.
Emerging Area
Fractional Ownership
You don't need massive capital to diversify anymore. Fractional shares and REITs have opened investing to people who couldn't participate before. We cover how to use these tools without overpaying in fees.
Tech Impact
AI in Market Analysis
Algorithmic trading and AI-driven analysis tools are becoming accessible to retail investors. Understanding how these systems work helps you use them wisely rather than following them blindly.
Looking Ahead
Interest Rate Dynamics
After years of low rates, we're in a different environment now. This changes how bonds, savings, and growth stocks behave. Your strategy needs to account for these shifts in the economic landscape.
2025-2026
Demographic Shifts
An aging population in developed markets creates both challenges and opportunities. Healthcare, retirement planning services, and age-friendly technology sectors are worth understanding as investment themes.
How the Programme Actually Works
We've structured this as a journey rather than just a series of lectures. Each phase builds on the previous one, but you'll also get practical exercises that help concepts stick. The programme runs over six months, starting in autumn 2025, with flexible scheduling that fits around work commitments.
Foundation Phase
Weeks 1-6Start with the basics that actually matter. No assumptions about prior knowledge here.
- Financial statements aren't as scary as they look once you know what to ignore
- Risk tolerance is personal, and you'll figure out yours through practical exercises
- Market mechanics explained without unnecessary complexity
- Tax implications for Irish residents and how they affect your returns
Asset Classes Deep Dive
Weeks 7-12Each major investment type gets proper attention. You'll understand when each makes sense.
- Equities beyond just buying popular stocks
- Fixed income products and when they're actually useful
- Property investment options available at different capital levels
- Alternative investments and their actual risk profiles
Portfolio Construction
Weeks 13-18Theory meets practice. You'll build sample portfolios and understand why certain combinations work.
- Diversification that makes sense for your situation
- Rebalancing strategies that don't eat away returns with fees
- Cost structures and how to minimize them legally
- Tools and platforms available to Irish investors
Advanced Concepts
Weeks 19-24Once you're comfortable with basics, we cover more sophisticated approaches.
- Options and derivatives explained without overwhelming you
- International investing and currency considerations
- Market timing myths versus disciplined approaches
- Building your personal investment policy statement
Who Guides You Through This
Our instructors have spent years working in different areas of finance. They explain things clearly because they've helped hundreds of people understand these concepts before.
Sinéad Byrne
Portfolio StrategyWorked with retail and institutional clients building investment strategies. Now focuses on helping people understand portfolio construction without unnecessary complexity.
Rónán MacGrath
Tax & Planning SpecialistQualified financial planner who understands Irish tax regulations inside out. Makes sure you know how investment decisions affect your actual returns after tax.
Ready to Start Learning?
The next programme begins in September 2025. Spaces are limited because we keep groups small for better interaction. Reach out to learn more about curriculum details, scheduling options, and what you'll need to get started.
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