In this issue, a number of senior partners reflect on 2016, but more importantly look to the future to see what 2017 might bring. Their thoughts prompted Managing Partner, Declan Black to look a little further ahead and imagine two competing scenarios.

In 2016, the Irish Courts continued to adopt new processes to increase the speed, efficiency and predictability of trials and to promote the use of alternative dispute resolution, particularly mediation. We look at the degree of success achieved so far. 

We examine the likely challenges and opportunities emerging in the investment funds industry during 2017.

2016 was a mixed bag with little change for pensions in Ireland. We outline how early markers indicate that 2017 is more likely to bring considerable discussion with possible movement and change, with potential for tangible impact in a number of key areas.

As the UK and US move towards lower corporate tax rates and the OECD BEPS project progresses, we examine the impact on Ireland's corporation tax regime in 2017.

2017 should reveal what Brexit actually means for the UK and for the EU it is leaving behind. We consider the outcome of the Brexit vote and the prospects for Irish businesses as the year unfolds. 

2017 will be the year in which the plans and promises of the Republican Party and the new US President will be put to the test, having important economic implications for Ireland and the EU. We look at how the priorities of the incoming US administration could affect Irish companies and international groups with Irish operations in 2017.