Joelene Pierce has been appointed CEO of KPMG South Africa, effective 1 March 2026, succeeding Ignatius Sehoole. A seasoned leader with 26 years at the firm, Pierce brings deep financial services expertise and a strong commitment to ethical transformation.

Old Mutual Wealth’s Izak Odendaal unpacks recent global and local interest rate decisions, highlighting South Africa’s inflation targeting shift and the impact of US tariffs. He urges long-term perspective, noting promising reforms and opportunities amid global economic uncertainty.

Citadel’s Maarten Ackerman welcomes the SARB’s 25bps rate cut, calling it a prudent move in a weak growth, low inflation environment. He notes it signals confidence in inflation control and supports investors, while cautioning against short-term portfolio shifts.

The SARB cut rates by 25bps to 7.0% and shifted its inflation target focus to 3.0%, signalling a major policy change. Despite unchanged official targets, long-term forecasts were lowered, raising key questions about future rate paths and market impact.

OUTsurance’s Kwande ESD Programme, in partnership with Edge Growth, empowers SMEs through mentorship, funding and development. Nine finalists recently competed for a share of R1 million, highlighting the programme’s impact in driving growth, innovation and community upliftment.

Chief Investment Officer, Foord Asset Management, Nick Balkin warns that lowering South Africa’s inflation target won’t reduce borrowing costs without structural reforms. He argues that weak governance, low growth, and fiscal risks, not inflation, drive high debt costs, and urges a focus on credibility and reform.