‘I have found I am willing to sacrifice convenience’

Are you a saver or a spender?

Traditionally a spender, but I’m working hard to become a saver. My 30th birthday is fast approaching, and it has definitely sharpened my focus on preparing for the future. You never know what’s around the corner.

Do you shop around for better value?

It depends on what the purchase is. More often than not, better value is found with large retailers, but I try my best to shop local. If it means spending a little more, I see it as a small sacrifice for the greater good. I really think that, after the last couple of years, it’s important now more than ever to support local businesses.

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What has been your most extravagant purchase and how much did it cost?

To be honest, I’m not really an extravagant person, so I don’t think I have anything notable. I’m not the type of person who will buy something on a whim, especially not something that would cost a lot.

What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?

I’ve been a Revolut premium account holder since it launched in Ireland. What a product! Especially if you travel often. The user experience, compared to traditional banks, is light years ahead.

How do you prefer to shop during the Covid-19 restrictions – online or local?

A mixture of both. Clearly, the right thing to do is support local retailers, but there were and are some items that just aren’t easily attainable locally, at least for a period of time. Sometimes, online is the most efficient way to get something quickly, cheaply and delivered straight to your door.

Do you haggle over prices?

Being a salesperson at heart, I enjoy a good haggling session. I guess it’s in my DNA. There’s no better feeling than walking away with the item you wanted at a reduced price.

How has the Covid-19 crisis changed your spending habits?

Working closely with numerous small businesses during Covid-19 has really highlighted just how important it is to support local businesses. The main difference I have found is that I am willing to sacrifice convenience while making purchases. Jeff Bezos has enough money.

Do you invest in shares?

Yes, I do. I have a number of friends who take a day-to-day approach to how they invest. I tend to find products and/or people I believe in and jump in for the ride.

Cash or card?

Card. I don’t think I have regularly had cash on me for six-plus months at this stage. Ninety-nine per cent of my spending is done via Apple Pay. It’s getting easier and easier to spend money!

What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?

Apple AirPods. I spend a good chunk of my day either on the phone or on virtual meetings. They are a godsend and are worth every penny.

Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?

I’m currently in the process of saving for a mortgage. Outside that, nothing that I would describe as a big purchase.

Have you ever lost money?

I lost some money on the last crypto bubble. Not a huge amount of money, but enough to teach me a lesson.

Are you a gambler and if so have you ever had a big win?

I used to enjoy Texas Holdem back in the day. About 10 years ago, my uncle Patrick and I entered a Boylesports tournament that was held in Gorey, Co Wexford. Out of 1,600 players, we both ended up finishing on the final table, which statistically was highly unlikely. I can’t remember exactly how much I won, but getting a Boylesports hat and hoodie for hitting the final table is my main memory.

Is money important to you?

Yes. Anybody who answers that question with a no has money and security and has never really had to worry about not having it before.

How much money do you have on you now?

€110.

in conversation with Tony Clayton-Lea