Highlights from Waystone’s Ireland Summit 2025

This year’s theme, “Redefining Asset Management in Ireland,” set the stage for thought-provoking discussions and fresh perspectives on the evolving investment landscape with a series of panel discussions.

The discussions driven by this theme offered valuable insights into the evolution of Ireland’s funds sector through two engaging panels. Key takeaways:

The ETF Revolution: ETFs and the Next Chapter for Ireland

• Ireland now manages over 70% of all European UCITS ETF assets, with total ETF assets doubling from €1 trillion to €2 trillion in just two years.
• Asset managers are launching ETF share classes as mutual funds and ETFs converge, creating hybrid products for all investors.
• As technology is widening ETF access across Europe, panelists explored how continued enhancement of the tax and regulatory environment could create further opportunities for Irish investors.

Market Insights and Reflections from Legends of the Irish Asset Management Industry

• Ireland’s funds industry was built on bold ideas and resilience. What began as an ambitious experiment in the 1980s has evolved into a world-class sector, powered by visionary collaboration across public and private sectors.
• Diversity has become one of the sector’s defining strengths, with a wide range of nationalities represented and women now holding senior roles that were once unimaginable.
• Panelists emphasised the importance of mentorship and collaboration, crediting mentors and peers whose guidance and support played a pivotal role in shaping their careers.

We were also pleased to welcome Keith Barry, world-renowned mentalist and motivational speaker, as our keynote. He inspired the audience with powerful insights on leadership, mindset and performance.

Thank you to all who joined us. We look forward to seeing you at the next one!

Event Photos