Explore the Category

Investment Note: Yet more surprises

15 May 2023 | General

Picture New Years’ Eve 2015. As you wait for the countdown to midnight, you hear the following prediction for the years ahead:

Higher interest rates expose market vulnerabilities and ultimately opportunities

15 May 2023 | General

The recent banking crisis in the US and Europe, the largest since the 2008 global financial crisis, was triggered by rising interest rates. Silicon Valley Bank, Credit Suisse in Europe and several other US banks failed in March this year, revealing vulnerabilities in their business models and risk management practices. This outcome was predictable given the historical tendency for higher rate cycles to expose structural weaknesses in businesses. This time it is no different, especially given the fact that the last time interest rates increased so rapidly in the US was during the late 1970s.

Don’t be lazy with your cash

15 May 2023 | General

A record amount of R1.6 trillion is currently held in South African bank accounts as retail savings deposits. This is a staggering amount of money which is currently conservatively invested. In many ways, this movement of funds reflects the significant uncertainties faced by investors, both in South Africa and globally.