How to select suitable offshore products for your needs

LINDA KLEYNSCHELDT

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SOUTH Africa is often called “the world in one country” for its diversity – and the same applies to its investment opportunities. Local investors can now access virtually the entire global market without leaving home, achieving true portfolio diversification across geographies, currencies, sectors and asset classes.

Key Ways to Invest Offshore

1. Rand-denominated feeder funds

These are local unit trusts that feed 100% of their assets into top global funds (e.g., Nedgroup Global Equity Feeder, Allan Gray-Orbis Global Equity Feeder). Accessible via familiar South African platforms (LISPs), they require no SARB clearance because the money never leaves the country. Returns are in rands, so you get full currency exposure without paperwork. Ideal for beginners.

2. Direct offshore investments (DIY)