Ireland fell back into recession in the last quarter of 2011, according to official figures released on Thursday.
Equity valuations that are reflecting "unrealistically large declines in growth and returns" present one of the best buying opportunities in a generation, according to Goldman Sachs.
Asian markets snapped gains made over the past week as renewed fears of a slowdown in China's economy weighed on investors.
As Apple announces it will pay a dividend for the first time since 1995, analysts and investors give their views on the landmark move by the tech giant.
Apple stock has hit a new high of $600 per share as the third edition of its iPad tablet computer hits the stores and flew off the shelves.