While the jury is still out on what a four-year Donald Trump term might mean for Africa, historical trends suggest that a pro-business climate in the US generally boosts global equity markets – and many in Africa remain hopeful that renewed US-China trade tensions could create opportunities for the continent.

Investors may need to look beyond recent equity market winners to achieve their 2025 return objectives, the media were told at Schroders Crystal Ball 2025 Investment Outlook event.

Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI), parent of the leading pan-African Ecobank Group, today opened the market at the London Stock Exchange (LSE) to celebrate the successful issuance of its US$400 million Senior Unsecured Eurobond on the London Stock Exchange main market.

Headline inflation dropped to 2.8% y/y in October 2024, driven by lower fuel and food prices. This marks the lowest level since June 2020, supporting prospects for a 25-basis point interest rate cut amid moderating inflationary pressures.

Investor confidence rebounded in Q3 2024, driving net inflows of R42.3 billion into South Africa's Collective Investment Schemes industry. Assets under management grew 4.3% to R3.80 trillion, supported by improved sentiment, favorable reforms, and strong equity performance despite investor caution.

Schroders' October market review highlights equity declines, Japan's standout performance, and fixed income retreat. Key themes include geopolitical uncertainties, shifting inflation dynamics, and sectoral impacts, while commodities, digital assets, and global economic trends offer nuanced insights into volatile market conditions.