The South African Reserve Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is expected to implement a 25-basis point interest rate cut in its upcoming meeting this week. Johann Els, Chief Economist at Old Mutual Group, highlighted the favourable economic indicators supporting the rate cut.

In his latest investment note, Isak Odendaal, Investment Strategist at Old Mutual Wealth, explores China’s 2025 economic challenges, including over investment, rising debt, deflation, and demographics, emphasising the need for a shift from investment-driven growth to household consumption and structural reforms for sustainability

The Professional Provident Society (PPS) has launched glu, a new division designed to extend mutuality-driven benefits to a wider audience across South Africa. Live from 30 January 2025, glu will bring a fresh approach to financial security, furthering PPS’s commitment to financial well-being.

Johanna Kyrklund, Schroders' Group CIO, highlights two major challenges for 2025 portfolios: rising bond yields threatening equity valuations and excessive market concentration in indices. She emphasizes diversifying portfolios as fiscal policies and shifting market dynamics reshape investment strategies.

Izak Odendaal examines Trump’s inauguration, addressing economic uncertainties, market risks, and global impacts. Despite strong fundamentals, concerns include recession risks, Federal Reserve policy, and Trump’s unpredictable trade and fiscal strategies.

Now that rates are stable and fundamentals are strong, global real estate is regaining prominence as a core component of multi-asset funds, providing diversification and resilient compounding returns.