ARTICLES

Gold is not just a lonely chart: it is a barometer of global liquidity, geopolitical risk and monetary credibility. After a 52 per cent yearly rise, the metal saw a tactical 9 per cent correction within 72 hours following a 19 per cent gain in October 2025, then a 4 per cent rebound. Yet the underlying pillars remain firm: record central‑bank purchases (1,080 tonnes in nine months, +28 per cent vs 2022), negative real yields (‑0.8 per cent on the 10‑year) and de‑dollarisation (gold already equals 18 per cent of emerging‑market reserves; it was 11 per cent in 2018). This report places the short‑term noise within a long‑term trajectory, outlines structural engines and draws lessons from historical episodes to set levels, scenarios and strategy.

When the phrase “Michael Reeves goldfish” started spreading across YouTube, Twitter and finance memes, it sounded like a throwaway joke: a chaotic coder letting a tiny orange fish YOLO its way through the stock market. Look closer, though, and the stunt was more than a punchline. It blended live streaming culture, algorithmic trading, behavioural finance and dark tech humour into one experiment perfectly suited to an age where retail investors swap charts and memes in the same breath. This guide unpacks who Michael Reeves is, how the goldfish trading rig actually worked, what risks were real versus for show, and what thoughtful investors, creators and curious onlookers can learn from a fish that briefly became the internet’s most infamous “portfolio manager”.

The WM/Reuters benchmark rates, often referred to as the WMR fix, are the backbone of global foreign exchange pricing. Published at set times each day, they provide a standard reference for currencies, allowing investors, corporates, and traders to price transactions and value portfolios consistently. The most influential of these is the 4 p.m. London fix, a moment that concentrates liquidity and often drives volatility. For anyone active in FX, understanding how these rates are calculated and used is essential.

Learn how to build a well-rounded stock portfolio with practical strategies and advanced tools. Understand metrics like Sharpe Ratio, Alpha, and PEG, and see how diversification and technical indicators can help you balance risk and boost returns, even in unpredictable markets.

Gold is more than a commodity; it is a mirror of global sentiment and a counterweight to the U.S. dollar. For decades, shifts in the price of gold have rippled through currency markets, influencing everything from risk appetite to central bank reserves. Traders watch the metal’s swings closely, as they often hint at underlying pressures in exchange rates. This article explores how gold interacts with the dollar, why it acts as a safe haven, and how those links shape strategies in Forex.

In Q3 2025, Palantir reported revenue of $1.181 billion (roughly €1.1 billion), up 63% year-on-year, beating analyst expectations of $1.09 billion. Adjusted earnings per share (EPS) hit $0.21 (+110% y/y), while GAAP profit soared 231% to $476 million (€440 million). Free cash flow climbed 46% to $540 million (€500 million). The company holds $6.4 billion (€5.9 billion) in cash and carries zero debt. U.S. commercial revenue jumped an impressive 121%. Palantir also raised guidance once again: Q4 revenue is forecast at $1.33 billion (vs. $1.19 billion expected), and full-year 2025 revenue between $4.396–$4.400 billion (+53%). Despite the stellar numbers, PLTR shares dropped 7.2% during Tuesday’s session, closing around $192 after dipping to $185 intraday. Year-to-date, the stock is still up 156%, with a market capitalisation around $450 billion (€415 billion). For Irish investors, it’s a timely reminder that even outstanding performance can’t always outshine high expectations.

Meta Platforms Inc. (META), the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, posted robust Q3 2025 financials on October 29. Revenue came in at $51.24 billion, surpassing analyst expectations, and core earnings remained healthy despite a one-time $16 billion tax charge. But the following day, META shares nosedived by 11.33%, closing at $666.47—the sharpest single-day drop in three years, wiping out nearly $190 billion in market value. Investor concerns centered around Meta’s increased capital expenditure guidance, especially for its aggressive AI infrastructure investments. Management warned that 2026 spending would rise “significantly faster,” alarming investors who fear margin compression and slower returns on these investments. While user growth on Threads and ad revenue from AI-driven tools remain strong, the market punished the lack of immediate profitability. Analysts remain optimistic long-term, but the near-term outlook is clouded by uncertainty around monetization. The earnings dip offered a reminder: in today’s AI arms race, strong numbers aren’t always enough.

Thinking about investing in Irish stocks but unsure which broker to trust? This ranking of the best stock brokers in Ireland was built after extensive testing of fees, trading platforms, research tools and customer support. The goal was to ensure that both first-time investors and experienced traders have reliable choices to access the Irish Stock Exchange as well as major international equities. Each platform listed combines transparent pricing, EU-level investor protection and a focus on long-term saving habits that align with Ireland’s cautious investment culture.

Looking to expand your portfolio beyond the Irish market? Our review of global stock brokers highlights platforms that give Irish investors smooth access to US, European and Asian markets. We focused on conversion costs from euro to foreign currencies, ease of use and access to well-known global companies such as Apple, Microsoft or Nestlé. The brokers featured here combine affordability, trust and reach, allowing Irish investors to diversify internationally with confidence and control.

Interested in earning steady income through fixed-income products? This ranking of the best bond brokers in Ireland evaluates access to sovereign debt, corporate bonds and global fixed-income instruments. We analysed commissions, transparency in yields and the availability of portfolio tools designed for conservative or retirement-focused strategies. These brokers offer Irish investors a practical way to balance risk and reward while maintaining predictable returns under regulated and transparent conditions.

Wondering which brokers in Ireland offer the best access to ETFs? Exchange-traded funds have become one of the most popular tools for Irish savers seeking low-cost diversification. This ranking highlights brokers that provide a wide range of global ETFs covering equities, bonds and thematic sectors, with low fees, integration into tax-advantaged accounts and clear research tools. Each platform enables investors to build balanced portfolios and grow wealth steadily over time.

Curious about trading futures and how it works in Ireland? This list features brokers that deliver advanced platforms with reliable order execution, competitive margins and access to contracts on indices, commodities and interest rates. We prioritised speed, transparency and risk management tools designed for active traders. The selected brokers give Irish investors the edge needed to participate confidently in global derivatives markets without facing hidden costs or execution issues.

The top brokers for the S&P/ASX 200 Index enable Irish investors to access the Australian market. Our assessment looks at minimizing FX conversion costs (EUR to AUD) and ensuring platform reliability for trading in the Oceanic time zone, facilitating seamless international diversification.

The best Hang Seng Index brokers provide low-cost and reliable access to the Hong Kong market for Irish investors. We prioritize platforms with minimal transaction costs, reliable real-time data, and smooth currency conversion, ensuring Irish traders can participate in this key Asian market efficiently.

The best FTSE 100 brokers for Ireland focus on competitive trading conditions for this major UK index. Our criteria include tight spreads and ensuring efficient FX conversion processes (EUR to GBP), making it cost-effective for Irish traders to gain exposure to the performance of leading British companies.

The top brokers for the SSE Composite Index provide compliant and reliable routes for indirect investment in the mainland Chinese market (Shanghai). We assess the reliability of the investment product (ETFs or funds) and the overall cost transparency, catering to Irish investors seeking diversified China exposure under regulatory oversight.

To access the Japanese market, the best Nikkei 225 brokers for Ireland offer competitive trading fees and rapid execution for CFDs or Futures. Our focus is on platforms that facilitate seamless trading across time zones, enabling Irish investors to effectively diversify into Asia's second-largest economy.

For exposure to Europe's leading companies, we rank brokers providing access to the EURO STOXX 50. Key factors include minimizing the total cost of ownership (low management fees on ETFs or tight spreads on CFDs) and ensuring platform reliability, making it efficient for Irish investors to tap into the European blue-chip market.

The best brokers offering the S&P/TSX Composite Index allow Irish investors to diversify into the Canadian market. Our evaluation considers the efficiency of FX conversion (EUR to CAD) and the overall market depth and liquidity of the available investment vehicles (ETFs or CFDs).

Advanced traders in Ireland seeking to hedge portfolios or speculate on market fear require the best VIX brokers. Our ranking assesses platforms based on their offering of VIX-related CFDs, Futures, or Options, prioritizing transparent margin requirements and the availability of sophisticated risk management tools essential for navigating market volatility.

For technology-focused Irish investors, the top NASDAQ brokers offer access to the NASDAQ 100 with competitive spreads and advanced trading technology. We prioritize brokers with high-quality mobile and web platforms that ensure fast, reliable execution, enabling traders to capitalize on trends in the global tech sector.

The best Dow Jones brokers for Irish investors deliver low-cost access to the DJIA, typically via CFDs or ETFs. Key evaluation criteria include overall trading costs and platform stability, which is crucial during fast-moving U.S. market hours, allowing Irish traders to effectively track and trade America's most established blue-chip companies.

To gain crucial exposure to the U.S. market, Irish investors rely on platforms offering competitive access to the S&P 500. Our ranking focuses on brokers that minimize FX conversion costs (EUR to USD), offer tight index spreads, and ensure reliable execution across CFDs, ETFs, and Futures, providing an efficient gateway to American corporate performance.

Looking to follow and trade indices like the ISEQ, FTSE 100 or S&P 500? Our analysis identifies brokers that make index trading simple, efficient and transparent. Each was tested for charting quality, spreads, usability and customer service to ensure a smooth experience for both beginners and professionals. With these brokers, Irish investors can track market trends, manage exposure and trade major benchmarks through reliable, regulated platforms.

Interested in trading options but don’t know where to begin? Options remain a niche area in Ireland, but they’re gaining traction. This ranking spotlights brokers offering fair pricing, clear contract terms and quality learning materials. Whether you’re exploring basic covered calls or managing complex hedging strategies, these regulated platforms provide the analytical tools and education needed to trade with confidence and discipline.

Wondering which are the most trusted Forex brokers in Ireland? The FX market continues to attract local traders thanks to its liquidity and accessibility. We evaluated brokers based on spreads, execution speed, range of currency pairs and regulatory compliance under EU oversight. The result is a selection of trusted FX providers that combine fast platforms, tight pricing and robust risk management tools for Irish traders at all levels.

As a major European financial center, Ireland has strong interest in gold as a safe-haven asset. We assess brokers providing secure access via physical metal, dedicated ETFs, or leveraged CFDs. Key factors include the security of custody, competitive transaction costs, and deep liquidity, making these platforms ideal for long-term wealth preservation.

The top oil brokers for Ireland provide seamless access to major global crude oil benchmarks (WTI and Brent). Our ranking assesses platforms based on their ability to offer tight, stable spreads, reliable execution during volatile events, and clear, flexible margin options. These brokers are essential for Irish traders looking to capitalize on, or hedge against, global energy price movements.

Looking to hedge against inflation or speculate on global food prices? The best agri-commodities brokers for Irish investors offer robust access to softs and grains markets, primarily through transparent futures or CFD contracts. We prioritize competitive pricing, speed of execution, and specialized charting tools, enabling Irish traders to manage exposure to the global agricultural economy.

Thinking about diversifying into commodities like gold, oil or agricultural products? This ranking presents brokers that give Irish investors direct access to major global commodity markets. We analysed contract transparency, platform stability and integration with broader trading portfolios. The brokers listed provide reliable tools for diversification, helping investors protect their portfolios against inflation and global volatility.

The best Altcoin platforms for Ireland cater to investors seeking high-growth digital assets. We rank brokers based on token diversity, transparent fee schedules (especially for withdrawals), and advanced security measures aligned with EU standards, allowing Irish investors to explore the wider crypto market safely.

The top Ethereum platforms for Irish users offer competitive spreads and reliable trading environments for ETH. Our comparison emphasizes technological infrastructure, the availability of features like staking, and overall compliance with EU financial guidelines, ensuring a well-supported and secure experience.

With increased regulatory focus, the best Bitcoin brokers for Ireland combine institutional-grade security with robust EU compliance. We evaluate platforms on wallet security, transparent fee structures, efficiency of EUR deposits and withdrawals, and adherence to evolving regulations, providing a secure pathway for Irish investors to engage with BTC.

Curious about cryptocurrency investing but concerned about regulation and safety? We reviewed brokers and exchanges operating under Irish and EU frameworks, testing their custody practices, fee transparency and security systems. The brokers featured offer access to major digital assets such as Bitcoin and Ethereum in regulated, user-friendly environments. These platforms allow Irish investors to explore crypto markets confidently while maintaining the strong investor protection standards expected in Ireland.