Tag: geopolitics

Despite recent diplomatic peace efforts from the US, the US-Israel war on Iran has now entered its fourth week. As a result, the situation remains extremely volatile. Moreover, ongoing Middle East tensions continue to heighten uncertainty across global markets. As the days pass, the risk of a stagflationary environment increases. In this scenario, low growth and high inflation occur simultaneously.

Escalating geopolitical tensions are reshaping global energy dynamics, and fuel rationing looms as both a local and international concern. The discussion in the video below centres on the growing risk of fuel instability in South Africa, set against a rapidly shifting global oil landscape influenced by conflict in the Middle East and changing policy decisions around Iran’s oil exports.

Geopolitics often feels distant. Many people see it as something that happens far away, involving borders or disputes over natural resources. These events usually take place on the other side of the world. However, the reality is far more personal for the average South African household. This is precisely why geopolitics matters to your pocket.

Two overarching themes are likely to dominate the investing landscape over 2026 and beyond - the unstoppable rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the changing global order. These subjects are complex and dynamic. It is impossible (and unwise) to form a fully-fledged thesis. More important than knowing the terrain is having the right attitude to traverse it.

In the next twenty-five years, Africa’s population is predicted to double in size to 2.5 billion. By 2050, one in four people on earth will be African. This raises a critical question: how can Africa accommodate and benefit from this huge demographic shift? The Invisible People frames this challenge as a defining moment for the continent.

The possible extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) comes at a moment of extraordinary geopolitical strain. Traditional allies are openly divided. Global trade is increasingly weaponised. Countries now face growing pressure to choose sides. At the same time, the United States has adopted a more protectionist posture. Its strategic rivalry with China, Russia, South America and Iran continues to intensify.

The operating environment during the first half of the year was challenging. Uncertainty around US policies, especially tariffs and ongoing geopolitical conflicts, caused significant volatility in financial markets. These factors also reduced business confidence.

We have announced the release of our latest report, ‘CEO Agenda 2025’. This comprehensive study offers critical insights into the complex challenges facing global CEOs. It also presents strategic priorities for leaders as a roadmap for navigating a rapidly evolving world.

Gold's long-term fundamentals were already looking positive. By effectively rejecting the US role as reserve currency issuer, President Trump is super-charging these trends. We have long maintained the view that long-run global geopolitical and fiscal trends have the potential to drive a very powerful bull market in gold.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping global power dynamics, economic frameworks, and security considerations. While it offers immense opportunities, it also raises significant concerns. These include governance, ethical standards, and its potential use in both civilian and military contexts.