Investec Focus Radio SA

This year, South Africa is set to become the tenth-largest solar market in the world. In 2023 R17.5 Billion rands of solar panels were imported into this country. In the latest episode of The Current podcast series, we’re talking all things solar PV – from market dynamics to how much it costs and whether it makes commercial sense for you to install it for your business or your home. Listen to Investec’s Melanie Humphries, Bernard Geldenhuys, and SAPVIA’s De Wet Taljaard, as they enlighten us on SA’s solar boom. 00:00: Intro 01:56: Meet the guests 02:24: Overview of solar in SA and its domination 03:36: 86% of all solar is residential or rooftop 04:24: Large-scale solar PV projects 05:03: SA in comparison to other country's solar adoption 06:20: The impact of residential solar's boom on the national grid 07:16: The cost implications of installing solar 09:46: Homeowners installing solar for commercial value 11:55: Equitable access to solar power 13:55: Local manufacturing of solar lagging behind 14:49: REIPP Programme attracting substantial FDI 15:19: Feeding excess energy back into the grid 17:32: Transmission is the biggest hurdle for large-scale solar 18:50: What is wheeling and why is it important for IPPs? 21:19: Top considerations when installing rooftop solar 22:28: Maintenance of solar equipment 23:10: Loadshedding and solar's relationship is changing 24:17: SMMEs benefit from solar 25:24: What are the risks to SA's solar boom? 28:28 Closing comments and some practical advice Investec's Sustainable Solutions in solar · Investec Focus Radio SA

In this episode, journalist Ferial Haffajee hosts a discussion with Cumesh Moodliar, Fumani Mthembi, Ravi Naidoo, Reyburn Hendricks, and Wrenelle Stander. They explore the challenges and opportunities facing Cape Town and South Africa as they navigate uncertainty and work toward sustainable economic growth. The conversation delves into various topics, including the impact of dropping the licensing cap on independent power producers like Pele Energy Group and the positive outcomes it has brought. They also discuss the global energy revolution and how South Africa can leverage this momentum for its benefit. The CEO initiative is examined, focusing on its impact and sustainability beyond elections. This analysis takes into account the significance of private capital in generating public good, as well as the role of public-private partnerships in driving economic development. The discussion also touches on the growth of Cape Town's aviation and cruise industries, showcasing the positive impact on the tourism sector. The issue of youth unemployment is addressed, with a focus on finding innovative solutions to integrate young people into the economy. Overall, this episode provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by Cape Town and South Africa, highlighting the importance of collaboration and forward-thinking strategies for sustainable growth. Skip ahead 00:00 Intro 03:05 The impact of removing the licensing cap on independent power producers, such as Pele Energy Group. 05:58 Example of Pele’s impact on rural communities in the Western Cape 07:53 The energy revolution 09:24 The CEO initiative 10:08 How sustainable are the decisions taken by the CEO initiative post-election? 12:04 What is the impact of the Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria cruise ships docking in Cape Town's harbour on the city's tourism industry? 14:11 Youth unemployment and how PPPs are finding innovative solutions to integrate young people into the economy. 19:56 Is the private sector assuming responsibilities that should be handled by the state? 23:01 How is Cape Town driving this great growth strategy? 27:11 How do we filter this growth into the rest of the country? Full article · Investec Focus Radio SA

The rand has been a leading beneficiary of a weaker US dollar, as expectations of a rate cut this year grow. In this week's episode, Investec Wealth & Investment Chief Investment Strategist Chris Holdsworth discusses discusses global inflation, mixed data coming out of China and why the rand has been strengthening as much as it has. Investec Focus Radio SA

With over 60 countries going to the polls in 2024, including South Africa, financial markets are keeping a close eye on developments worldwide. What does a historic year of global elections mean to investors? Investec Wealth & Investment Chief Investment Strategist Chris Holdsworth shares his insights on what election outcomes matter most to markets, and how investors should navigate this time of uncertainty. Listen to the latest episode of our No Ordinary Wednesday podcast. Podcast key moments: 00:00 – Introduction 01:24 – What are the key elections investors are watching and why? 02:49 – What strategies can investors employ to hedge against the ambiguity of elections? 03:40 – Are bond markets concerned about the big election year? 05:05 – Are there any opportunities for investors? 06:07 - How will this historic year likely shape investment decisions for the medium and long term? 07:19 - What are some of the common mistakes investors make during a time of election anxiety or a period of uncertainty? 08:40 - What can we expect from the currency markets due to uncertainty and risk associated with elections in major economies? 11:02 - What economic indicators do you think are going to be impacted by the global elections? 12:14 – What is the impact of the US elections? 13:20 - Are there any market or investor concerns as South Africans head to the polls? 14:35 – Post elections, what are some of the economic missteps we should watch out for as a country? 16:05 – Staying the course during election uncertainty Hosted by seasoned broadcaster, Jeremy Maggs, the No Ordinary Wednesday podcast unpacks the latest economic, business and political news in South Africa, with an all-star cast of investment and wealth managers, economists and financial planners from Investec. Listen in every second Wednesday for an in-depth look at what's moving markets, shaping the economy, and changing the game for your wallet and your business. Read more on www.investec.com/now Investec Focus Radio SA

In this week’s episode, Chief Investment Strategist Chris Holdsworth discusses latest PMI data and what it means for global growth, the FED decision and a surprising decline in a key leading indicator for the Chinese economy. Investec Focus Radio SA

In this episode we meet the man behind the title, Cumesh Moodliar, the CEO of Investec Bank. We delve into the importance of cultivating a positive mental outlook to effectively navigate the emotional impact of everyday life challenges. We also look at the role that corporates plays in fostering hope during times of uncertainty. Investec Focus Radio SA

Wind and solar are the predominant renewable energy sources being brought online now, but what about other clean energy technologies in the future of SA's energy mix? In episode 6 of the Current, we delve into geothermal, battery advancements, innovations in nuclear, biomass, smart grids and more. If you want a peek into the future of energy, listen to host Iman Rappetti in conversation with Investec's Harold Hutchinson, Campbell Parry and Chanda Nxumalo, MD of Harmattan Renewables as they explore the pros and cons of some of the latest advancements in energy. 00:00: Introduction 01:56: Meet the guests 02:26: Size matters when it comes to wind 03:32: Solar developments in the UK 04:33: Lazard's levelised cost of energy 06:09: Battery technology advancements 08:19: Factoring in long-term weather patterns 09:33: Reimagining nuclear 12:23: Are nuclear safety concerns unfounded? 13:20: Dealing with nuclear waste 13:59: Funding of nuclear 15:30: Hydrogen only viable in long-term 17:39: Hydrogen use in fertilizer and petrochemicals 18:31: Geothermal’s potential as energy source 23:33: Tidal energy pros and cons 24:23: Biomass in the UK 25:26: Hybrid energy solutions are the answer 27:22: Smart grid technology 29:14: Tech that enables efficient use 30:54: Closing comments This episode was brought to you by Investec Wealth & Investment. Learn more about their responsible investment strategy and how you can invest your money so it can do well, and do good. Read more: https://www.investec.com/en_za/investment/responsible-investing.html Responsible investment offering by Investec Wealth · Investec Focus Radio SA

In this week’s episode, Chief Investment Strategist Chris Holdsworth takes a look at SA's state-owned enterprises and in particular at the positive trends in electricity availability, as well as in ports and rail. He also looks at the recent rand strength, US interest rates, US jobs and earnings. Investec Focus Radio SA

South Africa’s ailing healthcare system has significant implications for the population and the economy. What needs to be done to change the course of healthcare in SA? In the latest episode of the No Ordinary Wednesday podcast, Health Activist Dr Aslam Dasoo and Investec Healthcare Equity Analyst Letlotlo Lenake discuss the NHI and the future of healthcare in the country. Podcast key moments: 00:00 – Introduction 02:47 - What are the biggest challenges facing South Africa's healthcare system? 08:39 – The economic impact of a weak healthcare system 10:41 – Opportunities for public private partnership in healthcare 12:30 - What should be the key focus areas to improve healthcare in SA? 17:50 – Can South Africa afford NHI? 20:35 – NHI, is there an alternative? 25:40 – Lessons from other countries 27:13 – How do we fix the healthcare system? Hosted by seasoned broadcaster, Jeremy Maggs, the No Ordinary Wednesday podcast unpacks the latest economic, business and political news in South Africa, with an all-star cast of investment and wealth managers, economists and financial planners from Investec. Listen in every second Wednesday for an in-depth look at what's moving markets, shaping the economy, and changing the game for your wallet and your business. Read more on www.investec.com/now Investec Focus Radio SA

This week, Investec Wealth & Investment Chief Investment Strategist Chris Holdsworth discusses the latest US GDP print and core PCE inflation. And in South Africa, the latest on election polls. Investec Focus Radio SA

In episode 5 of The Current, we examine fossil fuels- mankind's centuries-old mixed blessing. We discuss the numerous applications of oil and gas and just how quickly we can phase them out, whilst sticking to a 'just energy transition'. Listen to Iman Rappetti, and Investec's Callum Macpherson, Campbell Parry, Melanie Janse van Vuuren and SAPIA's Executive Director Fani Tshifularo unpack the most fundamental question of the global energy transition: What is the future of fossil fuels? 00:00 Introduction 02:22 Meet the guests 02:42 What was agreed at COP28 on fossil fuels 04:50 Fossil fuels account for 75% of global GHG emissions 06:38 Our everyday dependence on fossil fuel products: from clothes to fertilizer 08:34 Electric vehicle adoption in SA versus the rest of the world 09:56 When will the demand for oil fall? 11:06 Road transport drives 50% of oil demand 13:02 What is a transition fuel and why are they important? 15:16 Opportunities for SA off demand for gas 17:58 When will we see a peak in global oil demand? 19:14 Geopolitics and fluctuating prices of fossil fuels 20:56 What is SA govt and industry doing to move away from fossil fuels? 22:17 How to make a dirty industry more efficient 24:21 How to bring oil-rich countries onto the transition journey 25:43 Investec approach to oil and gas: commitments and targets 27:21 A pragmatic approach to transitioning away from oil and gas This episode was brought to you by Investec Wealth & Investment. Learn more about their responsible investment strategy and how you can invest your money so it can do well, and do good. Read more: https://www.investec.com/en_za/investment/responsible-investing.html Responsible investment offering by Investec Wealth · Investec Focus Radio SA

This week, Investec Wealth & Investment Chief Investment Strategist Chris Holdsworth looks at the latest US economic data, outlook for interest rates in the US, what is happening to global markets and CPI in SA. Investec Focus Radio SA

Although sentiment indicators in South Africa are depressed there are signs of improvement to support stronger growth for 2024. In this episode, Investec Chief Economist Annabel Bishop discusses the macroeconomic outlook for the global and local economy, and where the opportunities are for growth. Investec Focus Radio SA

Welcome to the 4th episode of The Current, an Investec Focus Radio podcast series where host Iman Rappetti takes you on a thought-provoking 10-part journey of South Africa's energy transition. In this episode, Investec's Barry Shamley, Zane Bezuidenhout, Boipelo Rabothata and Campbell Parry discuss the myriad investment opportunities presented by the energy transition and the world's commitment to reach net zero by 2050: from mining companies, enabling and transitioning businesses, to the potential of carbon capture, nuclear and hydrogen power. 00:00 Introduction 02:22 Meet the guests 02:55 Investing in mining of green metals 06:05 Is renewable energy a good investment? 08:17 The importance of efficient energy use 09:02 Battery technology advancement 10:34 Construction companies' boom 12:09 A bearish short-term view on hydrogen 14:51 Investing in companies contributing to the SDGs 15:12 Transitioning companies present an opportunity 16:55 Monitoring companies' transition targets is vital 19:29 How will the adoption of AI impact the journey to net zero? 22:07 Is AI a responsible investment? 22:56 2022 Inflation Reduction Act and its impact 24:52 Global Sustainable Equity Fund 28:12 Investing for good without compromising returns 29:34 Energy transition- the megatrend that offers a myriad of investment opportunities Tune in to this enlightening investment-focused episode and be informed about the many opportunities stemming from the energy transition. This episode was brought to you by Investec Wealth & Investment's Global Sustainability Equity Fund. Invest in world-class companies dedicated to achieving the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and that we believe can provide you with attractive returns. The fund strives to have a 100% net positive SDG impact. Learn more: https://www.investec.com/en_za/investment/invest-offshore/global-sustainable-equity-fund.html Investec's Global Sustainable Equity Fund · Investec Focus Radio SA

As South Africa approaches elections, the nation grapples with critical issues such as substantial unemployment, escalating violent crime rates, and persistent power and infrastructure challenges that dominate the public discourse. Amidst these challenges, many South Africans are looking beyond the government for solutions – they look to themselves but they also look to an innovative business community. Public-private partnerships are playing a key role in helping South Africa meet its infrastructural and development investment requirements. In this episode, get an inside view into some of South Africa’s key public-private partnerships and the business leaders driving them, with our panel of experts. Journalist and editor, Ferial Haffajee hosted recent In conversations events with Investec CEO Designate, Cumesh Moodliar; Busisiwe Mavuso, CEO of Business Leadership South Africa; Fumani Mthembi, Co-founder & Director of Pele Energy Group; Mteto Nyati, Chairman at Eskom and Executive Chairman at BSG; Mark Rayner, Vumacam investor, co-founder of Leadwood Partners; and Reyburn Hendricks, CEO at H1 Holdings. This episode is for all South Africans who are interested in finding out what some of the initiatives are that are helping to drive the country to prosperity. Skip ahead: 00:00 Intro 01:50 Understanding the CEO Initiative and how it works 04:51 The inner workings of the CEO Initiative 07:55 The timelines put forward by the CEO Initiative for various infrastructure and security projects to be completed 10:06 Government’s role vs the role of the public sector in these public-private partnership projects 12:15 Eskom update from Chairman of the board, Mteto Nyati 15:09 National Treasury diagnostic report on Eskom 16:41 The end of loadshedding 18:26 Regulatory reform driving private power production 21:24 Industrialisation of the energy sector as a way to tackle unemployment 25:35 Vumacam revolutionising the crime detection industry in South Africa 28:27 Rolling out crime detection video technology in Johannesburg 29:36 Skills development in the security industry to meet technological advancements 31:59 Suggestions to the president from captains of industry Private-public partnerships in Johannesburg · Investec Focus Radio SA

From SA Inc, to green and gold. In the latest episode of No Ordinary Wednesday, discover the sectors that have piqued the interest of award-winning fund managers, Barry Shamley and Peter Vogel, and the factors driving their local and international investment decisions. Podcast key moments: 00:00 – Introduction 01:20 - How are macroeconomic and geopolitical conditions affecting global equity funds? 02:24 – How are equity markets fairing in South Africa despite global headwinds? 03:57 – Are South African investors optimistic about local equity funds? 04:54 – How is rand volatility affecting equity markets? 06:13 – Equity markets to watch out for 2024 07:57 – Emerging markets equities vs developing markets equities? 09:05 – What are emerging markets equity funds investing in? 10:02 – How is South Africa performing against other emerging markets? 10:58 – Is SA Inc attractive to investors? 11:37 – Are there significant inflows in tech and AI in South Africa? 12:25 – What sectors in South Africa are attractive to investors? 14:14 – What sectors are growing in South Africa? 15:24 – Impact of investing in South Africa 17:20 – What will drive the investment outlook for the next 12 to 18 months? Hosted by seasoned broadcaster, Jeremy Maggs, the No Ordinary Wednesday podcast unpacks the latest economic, business and political news in South Africa, with an all-star cast of investment and wealth managers, economists and financial planners from Investec. Listen in every second Wednesday for an in-depth look at what's moving markets, shaping the economy, and changing the game for your wallet and your business. Read more on www.investec.com/now Investec Focus Radio SA

Investec's Quentin Allison, Ayan Ghosh and Fanele Mondi, CEO of the Energy Intensive Users Group, examine the crucial role of the mining sector in the energy transition, with a focus on the growing need for so-called "clean minerals" which South Africa has in abundance. 00:00 Intro 02:37 The energy trilemma 04:53 Just transition and how to manage the loss of jobs from coal mining 07:00 Energy transition happening at a slow pace 08:09 The promise of Platinum Group Metals (PGMs) 10:56 Investec's Commodity Hedging and Working Capital Solutions 11:20 How clean are PGMs, really? 12:19 EVs are eating PGM's lunch 13:15 PGMs are vital in hydrogen fuel energy 16:27 South Africa's potential as a leader in the hydrogen economy 20:58 Other clean metals in the green energy transition 21:14 Nuclear energy in SA's energy mix 23:34 Will the hydrogen economy be a game changer for SA? This episode was brought to you by Investec Corporate and Institutional Banking. The Commodity Hedging and Working Capital Solutions team identifies opportunities and structures investment alternatives across traditional commodity assets and exciting frontier markets like regulated carbon allowances. Learn more: https://www.investec.com/en_za/investec-for-institutions/commodities.html Investec's Commodity Hedging and Working Capital solutions · Investec Focus Radio SA

In this special edition of Investec Focus Radio, we delve into the intersection of food technology and sustainability with Arturo Elizondo, the founder and CEO of The Every Company, and Melanie Janse van Vuuren, Global Sustainability lead at Investec. We explore the environmental challenges of traditional meat production and the rise of innovative lab-created food alternatives. Arturo shares Every Company's groundbreaking work in precision fermentation and AI to create the world's first chickenless eggs and how this technology can revolutionise our food systems. Listen to this compelling conversation about the future of food and how groundbreaking technology and conscious choices can lead to a more sustainable planet. 00:00 Introduction 01:23 Arturo Elizondo’s journey to forming food technology company, Every co. 03:11 Alternative protein landscape 07:58 Ensuring that our food is sustainable? 12:48 Accessibility and affordability 14:08 Nutritional value of alternative proteins 15:31 The shift to consume less animal proteins 16:31 The use of AI in food production At Investec our vision is to grow and preserve our clients’ long-term wealth by allocating capital that not only achieves desired financial outcomes, but also ensures that future generations inherit a world they can be proud of. Find out more about the Investec Sustainability Equity Fund Find out more about the Investec Sustainability Equity Fund

This week, Investec Wealth & Investment Chief Investment Strategist Chris Holdsworth discusses risks ahead for US growth, despite an uptick in the leading indicator. Investec Focus Radio SA

South Africa’s often under-appreciated mid-market sector remains a bulwark in driving the country’s economy and continues to play a key role in mitigating some of the country's infrastructure and energy difficulties. And while resilience is an overtraded word in South Africa, it is this attitude that is helping the sector grow. In this episode, Dhiren Mansingh, Investec’s Head of Business Transactional Banking, discusses the mid-market landscape, how these businesses are holding the line in tough times and how they’re positioning for growth. Podcast key moments: 00:00 – Introduction 01:05 – What type of companies make up the mid-market segment? 01:50 – How important is the mid-market sector to the South African economy? 02:45 – How are these mid-market companies navigating challenges in the South African economy? 04:23 – What are mid-market businesses worried about? 05:47 – What has been the impact of high inflation and high interest rates environment for the mid-market sector? 07:11 – How are mid-market businesses navigating uncertainties? 08:26 – How should mid-market businesses protect themselves against currency volatility? 10:18 – Where are mid-market companies investing? 11:49 – Where do opportunities lie for mid-market businesses? Hosted by seasoned broadcaster, Jeremy Maggs, the No Ordinary Wednesday podcast unpacks the latest economic, business and political news in South Africa, with an all-star cast of investment and wealth managers, economists and financial planners from Investec. Listen in every second Wednesday for an in-depth look at what's moving markets, shaping the economy, and changing the game for your wallet and your business. Read more on www.investec.com/now Investec Focus Radio SA