Big powers are now deploying incentives, restrictions and subsidies at unprecedented levels, reshaping global investment flows in the process. Screening mechanisms, once used sparingly, have expanded significantly, with national security considerations now stretching across data, technology, supply chains and talent flows. Investment decisions often follow trade patterns, with firms investing abroad to secure market access, stabilise supply chains and hedge against trade policy risks. Even when these issues do not ultimately determine investment decisions, they occupy an increasing share of boardroom attention. If we remain agile and forward-looking, and address our domestic weaknesses, we can continue to be a place where global companies choose to innovate, invest and grow.

Source: The Irish Times March 13, 2026 06:47 UTC