Author Archives: Alan McCarthy

Budget Summary 2024

Posted on by Alan McCarthy

Introduction: Budget 2024 was a challenging one due to the economic and political backdrop. The Government delivered a comprehensive fiscal package with numerous measures impacting the Irish economy and society. The budget aims to benefit everyone slightly, but no significant advantages are offered to any particular group. The economy is near full capacity, but there […]

MBC Financial awarded Cork Pension & Investment Broker 2022

Posted on by Alan McCarthy

MBC Financial is delighted to announce that we have been awarded Cork Pension & Investment Broker 2022 by the All-Ireland Business Foundation for a second year in a row and have maintained our Business All-Star Accreditation for the third year in a row – 2020, 2021 and 2022. Our team has been very busy over […]

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How To Move From Ulster Bank

Posted on by Alan McCarthy

Ulster Bank are one of Ireland’s biggest banks and have been operating here for over 160 years but they have struggled to remain profitable. The banks parent company, NatWest, made the announcement that Ulster Bank will be closing down its business in the Republic of Ireland, leaving all 1.1million Irish customers confused. Although changes aren’t expected to happen for another year or so, with any changes expected to be brought in gradually, it would be wise if you are a customer with Ulster Bank to start preparing for a move now. In this post we will be covering what is actually happening, when it could be happening and what you should do if you are currently with Ulster Bank.

Apple Pay, Google Pay and FitBit Pay Charges.

Posted on by Alan McCarthy

Contactless payment methods have been getting more popular as the years go on as its quick and secure. The only complaint it seemed was that there was a lack of acceptance of these methods for awhile. Apple, Google & FitBit all now offer their own version of contactless payment with phones and smart watches alike. Payments have never been quicker and easier. With the outbreak of COVID-19, there has been ever greater encouragement for contactless payment with the limits constantly rising. In this article we will examine which bank supports which payment type & whether or not there are charges that come with contactless payment through Apple, Google & FitBit Pay.

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Shopping Around for Irish Bank Charges

Posted on by Alan McCarthy

Different providers charge different levels of bank charges and often these can be the trigger for people to move around banks. Especially if you’re with Ulster Bank who are shutting operations in the next few years, you will be looking for alternatives and bank charges will be a big factor in the one you should choose. Each bank have difference pros and cons with different features which are sure to suit everyone’s needs. We will also add in whether they support contactless payment methods as they are ways of avoiding charges when using card. In this post, we will provide a rundown of each banks charges to give you the best understanding and the ultimate guide to help you make your next choice.

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