Clarity, by Investec Trading Platform Now Available to All SA Investors

Clarity, by Investec is now officially open to the general public, broadening the investable universe for local investors.

This self-managed, high-tech trading platform empowers a new generation of tech-savvy investors seeking to take control of their financial portfolios with seamless access to local and global markets, combining innovation, control, and international reach.

“The platform gained significant traction after launching to Investec Private Banking clients, attracting a diverse age range from 20-somethings to clients in their 70s,” says Tinus Rautenbach, Business Head of Clarity. “We have since implemented enhancements - prioritising quality and service excellence - and are excited to open the platform to the South African investing community.”

Clarity provides registered account holders access to over 750 instruments listed on local and offshore markets where users can trade on a leveraged or non-leveraged basis. Trading takes place via CFD (contract for difference) instruments.

“Following the boom in online trading during the pandemic, we have seen an evolution in the trading landscape driven by changing preferences for investing and creating wealth,” explains Rautenbach. “With a more technologically-driven and diversified environment, the trading and investment landscape is becoming increasingly dynamic and inclusive.”

The ability to convert South African rands (ZAR) to foreign currency (such as US dollars) instantly via Investec has been a significant adoption driver. “The average time for clients to execute a forex trade is just 25 seconds, providing clients with the opportunity to express a view on the currency and access a low-risk savings products in that currency,” he adds.

There are no minimum investment requirements and while average account sizes align with industry standards, some portfolios exceed R1 million, underscoring the brand's strength.

There is a growing desire among retail investors and high-net-worth individuals to manage a discretionary portion of their portfolios themselves. Clarity is designed to meet the demand for do-it-yourself (DIY) investing, featuring a simple signup process on an easy-to-use website and dedicated app. Both platforms offer intuitive interfaces for users.

“Our market research identified digital optimisation as a key customer need, and clients want to feel in control, which Clarity provides,” Rautenbach states.

The platform includes a digitally led in-app service model with live chat functionality and self-service capabilities. The depth of data available to investors and the platform's speed resonate as important value propositions among traders.

Rautenbach is confident that Clarity will appeal to a broad spectrum of individuals beyond seasoned traders, bolstered by the support of the trusted Investec brand. “Offering a digitally led platform for DIY investing with no brokerage fees appeals to a larger customer base, serving as a potential gateway into the Investec ecosystem,” he adds.

Clarity continues to evolve, with new products and instruments added based on client feedback. Recent additions include stocks in high-growth sectors like tech and pharmaceuticals, as well as exposure to cryptocurrencies through the iShares Bitcoin Trust (Bitcoin ETF).

“We also introduced 24/5 forex trading last year, enabling clients to exchange rands for dollars after office hours, which was previously unavailable,” Rautenbach mentions.

These enhancements reflect ongoing efforts to improve the client experience, with additional product developments in the pipeline, including a more holistic trade, invest, and save solution.

Individual investors who are not Investec clients can now sign up at nowclarity.com and download the Clarity app from the Apple or Android app stores to start their trading and investment journey.