Bloomberg Talks Colin Hunt Talks Irish Economy, Trade Policy
Sep 9, 2025
Colin Hunt, CEO of Allied Irish Banks, shares insights into the current Irish economy and its evolving trade policies. He discusses how recent shifts in the bank's ownership are fostering new relationships with U.S. investors. The conversation also delves into Dublin's commercial real estate dynamics post-COVID, revealing challenges in office returns. Hunt further highlights Ireland's thriving pharmaceutical sector and the innovations reshaping its airline industry, particularly how Aer Lingus connects Ireland with the U.S. market.
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From State Rescue To Private Ownership
- Allied Irish Banks was rescued by the Irish government after the global financial crisis and carried government ownership for about 15 years.
- Colin Hunt says the government fully exited the register in June and AIB is now 100% privately owned.
Tariff Certainty Restores Business Confidence
- Colin Hunt welcomed the U.S.-EU tariff agreement as it removes business uncertainty created earlier in the year.
- He highlights the United States as a critical market for Irish exports, investment, and external capital.
AIB's Half-Century In New York
- AIB has maintained a New York presence for 50 years and used it to deploy lending and attract external capital through crises.
- Colin Hunt notes major Irish firms like CRH and Kerry Group also have significant U.S. exposures.