The Two-Pot retirement system offers South Africans limited access to savings for short-term relief while preserving long-term benefits, but successful withdrawals depend on accurate data, compliance, and digital processes, with members urged to use funds cautiously to protect future retirement outcomes.

Stakeholder management and public relations have converged into a single strategic function, essential for cutting through information overload, building trust, and sustaining competitive advantage. Organisations that integrate engagement and communication effectively can strengthen reputation, drive growth, and create lasting differentiation in a rapidly evolving business environment.

Lethu Zulu, Head of Hedge Funds at Sanlam Investments Multi-Manager, says while market shocks exposed vulnerabilities, well-managed hedge funds proved their value through flexibility, capital preservation and active positioning, highlighting the importance of careful manager selection

Daniel van Andel, Head of Platform and Adviser Proposition at Allan Gray, says investors should stay focused on long-term goals and maintain diversified portfolios, avoiding short-term reactions to market volatility while using opportunities like increased offshore allowances to enhance global exposure.

Izak Odendaal, Investment Strategist at Old Mutual Wealth, says while the ongoing geopolitical crisis highlights global economic fragilities and fuels inflation risks, it also underscores the economy’s resilience and creates new long-term investment opportunities.

Duncan Lamont, Head of Strategic Research at Schroders, says while stagflation creates a challenging environment, equities can still deliver returns and often outperform cash, with outcomes varying widely across sectors and regions, highlighting the importance of active investment strategies.