As we kick off the new year, we dive into the Australian property market, exploring the potential for a bubble as prices slow after years of growth. With many young Irish choosing to move Down Under for a better life, we discuss David W. Higgins’ recent article in The Irish Times, which warns that Australia’s economic prosperity, largely driven by mining, may be unsustainable due to falling commodity prices and China's shifting economic model. With Dry January upon us, new research from Heineken and the University of Oxford reveals that while most consumers find it acceptable to choose no- or low-alcohol drinks when out, social pressure still leads many to opt for alcohol. We explore the rise of the zero-alcohol sector—could Gen Z be driving this trend with the help of "splitting the G"? Finally, we focus on the start of a new parliamentary term in Ireland, where the opposition’s priorities, particularly around housing and social issues, are becoming clearer on the left wing. At the same time, the right wing’s stance remains less defined amid ongoing coalition negotiations.

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Dale McDermott

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David W. Higgins

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