2020 has been many things, none of them what we expected. I remember hearing about this new coronavirus in mid-January. Early reports were certainly worrisome and I was keeping half an eye on developments in China. Then, in early March, on the day the first case was announced in South Africa, I was in Durban doing a presentation on the possible impact the virus – which we now know as Covid-19 – could have on local and global markets.
We’d changed the topic of the presentation a few days earlier, as the magnitude of the virus became apparent. But even then I totally underestimated the actual impact. But I did make two predictions at that Durban event. Firstly: the impact on markets would be real, with a drop of over 30% very likely. Secondly: global economies would go into recession.
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SO, WHAT NOW?
AS WE PUT 2020 BEHIND US, 2021 ISN’T EXPECTED TO LOOK MUCH BETTER (THOUGH A LITTLE).
The outlook for SA's four popular investment instruments
As 2020 draws to its bitter close, some respite may lay ahead for local stocks and bonds. The drive to list a diversified basket of offshore-focused exchange-traded funds will likely continue unabated. And the rand? Lest we burn our fingers in ever predicting our volatile currency.
MAKING BAD (INVESTMENT) DECISIONS IN A PANDEMIC
Many investors fell into the trap of either selling stocks at depressed prices during the March market rout, or cashing in their pensions.
Goodbye 2020 ... Hello 2021
Schalk Louw shares his outlook for the largest asset classes available to local investors.
How Has The Covid-19 Pandemic Affected The Inflation Outlook?
Due to deglobalisation and higher commodity prices, inflationary risks are increasing worldwide.
How Technology Influences Politics
Advances in how we communicate will continue to create opportunities for those who want to sow division.
On margin
The curious case of the US elections
Introducing Refined Ruggedness
The Ford Ranger Thunder exhibits double-duty dexterity off- and on-road.
Medical Schemes' Healthy Reserves Underpin Lower Premium Increases
The medical aid scheme industry is faced by stagnant membership as South Africans suffer from economic headwinds. Nevertheless, schemes are well positioned to buffer the effect of Covid-19.
Emerging Markets … And Trends
As developing nations navigate their way through the worldwide pandemic, there just might be some investment opportunities starting to emerge, writes Jaco Visser.
AMERICANS CAN PAY THEIR CREDIT CARD BILLS, BUT FOR HOW LONG?
The coronavirus pandemic hasn’t stopped Americans from keeping up with their credit card payments, thanks in large part to government relief programs passed by Congress earlier this year.
Getting More from Less
Everyone has been forced to cut back in some way—but limitations can lead us to even greater growth. We asked six entrepreneurs: What unexpected benefits have you gotten from change?
Are We Going Digital Forever?
The pandemic swiftly moved our world online. Once you discover the power of engaging your customers digitally, you won’t want to go back.
Japan's Softbank Back in The Black As Investments Improve
Japanese technology company SoftBank Group Corp. said it bounced back to profitability in the last quarter as its investments improved in value.
Focus On Your Mission
Our worlds may feel shaken. But we’re actually much sturdier than we think.
My Mentor Taught Me Always Go Deeper
A branding expert weighs in on a promising business idea.
Give Your Portfolio Some Shine
With a weaker dollar and inflation stirring, it’s probably a good idea to diversify with a little gold.
Death and Taxes
The Trump tax cut failed to deliver for all but the very rich. And the gop thinks this is the perfect time for more.
An Alternative Way To Get Burned
YieldStreet pitches investments you can’t get elsewhere. That’s not always a good thing
Lower Your Health Care Costs
Health savings accounts help defray the cost of high-deductible health plans. They’re also a powerful way to invest for retirement.