South Africa’s economic reform programme is beginning to yield tangible results, but implementation, coordination and delivery capacity remain defining challenges. This was the message from Rudi Dicks, Head of the Project Management Office in the Presidency and co-lead of Operation Vulindlela, speaking in the latest PSG Think Big webinar hosted by award-winning journalist Alishia Seckam.

Citadel Chief Economist Maarten Ackerman notes that despite trade tensions and political uncertainty, the world economy has avoided recession, entering a controlled slowdown. He highlights opportunities amid moderation and urges investors to “box clever” heading into 2026.

Recent changes to South Africa’s exchange control manual could deter foreign investment and reduce JSE liquidity, warns the Institute for International Tax and Finance. New rules requiring tax clearance for non-resident income remittances add delays, higher costs, and compliance burdens.

US Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell downplayed expectations of further rate cuts as slowing job growth contrasts with strong economic performance. Despite uncertainty, Schroders’ Sebastian Mullins expects resilient global growth, moderate inflation, and solid corporate earnings into 2026.

South African bonds have delivered impressive gains, supported by improving inflation dynamics, supportive global conditions and renewed investor interest. Duayne le Roux explains why local bonds may still offer attractive real returns, while cautioning that smart risk management remains essential in the months ahead.

A2X welcomes the Competition Commission’s referral of alleged anti-competitive conduct by the JSE to the Tribunal. The exchange argues that fair competition will lower trading costs, improve liquidity and support market growth, ultimately benefiting investors, listed companies and South Africa’s broader economy.