Tag: interest rates

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the beating heart of Africa’s economies. According to the World Economic Forum, as engines of growth, SMEs are responsible for around 80% of the continent’s employment, ultimately helping to reduce poverty and income inequality, enabling the establishment of a new middle class and driving demand for new goods and services.

High interest rates increase the income opportunity of one’s savings and investments. In a volatile economic landscape, the importance of prudent financial planning and savvy saving strategies becomes more critical than ever. When inflation is high, the value of money seems to shift like sand beneath our feet, with a knock-on effect on interest rates and the cost of living.

In a realm marked by economic flux and financial ambiguity, the connotation of "debt" has assumed multifaceted dimensions. While the term itself often carries unfavourable implications, there exists a select set of financial obligations that the citizens of South Africa should not shy away from embracing in 2023.

If you’re reading this, there’s a very good chance you’re already familiar with Environmental Social Governance (ESG). ESG is a constantly evolving standard that emphasises the importance of doing business in a way that positively impacts the environment, society and stakeholders.

For those who have just won the Lotto – or in a more likely scenario – are exceptionally good at saving - choosing to buy a home in cash can have its advantages. However, this option also means forgoing tax benefits, and tying up a substantial amount of hard cash in a fixed asset for a long period of time.

Of the companies we research, the tobacco industry has some of the best structural fundamentals. Tobacco consumption is relatively price-inelastic, which means that price increases can make up for falls in sales volumes. Taxes make up a large portion of sale prices.

The journey to joint home ownership can be an exciting one and may improve your chances of being approved for a home loan. However, whether you are financing a home as a couple (married or unmarried), as business partners or even as friends, a home loan is a serious and long-term financial commitment.

Purchasing a home is one of the most significant financial decisions most people make in their lifetime. This requires careful consideration and planning, especially in today's economic climate, where interest rates are skyrocketing, and income is not set in stone.

A record amount of R1.6 trillion is currently held in South African bank accounts as retail savings deposits. This is a staggering amount of money which is currently conservatively invested. In many ways, this movement of funds reflects the significant uncertainties faced by investors, both in South Africa and globally.

Determining the true market value of a home is about more than design, amenities, kerb appeal, location and size. While those are of course important elements of home valuations, they only paint half the picture for buyers and sellers looking to enter into property transactions.