Tag: Wendy Myers

As we settle into the second half of 2026, global market returns continue to reflect themes pulling markets in different directions. There has been an almost unprecedented combination of geopolitical tension, volatile oil prices, persistent inflation and uncertainty over interest rates. Added to this are the extraordinary gains delivered by Artificial Intelligence (AI). These gains have become concentrated in a small number of large companies.

If you're eager to get into the stock market because you've heard it's a fast track to wealth, think again. The reality is that most individual stocks result in losses over the long term. This finding emerged in a recent article by Hendrik Bessembinder, which analysed the investment outcomes of 29,754 common stocks listed on the US public markets from 1926 to 2025.

Many people tend to default to investing in the JSE because they are familiar with these listed companies. However, this limits the diversification benefits that come from investing in offshore shares. Diversification across economies, political jurisdictions and asset classes is achieved when a portion of total assets is invested offshore.

Corporate actions can be described as the small print of owning equities. Many equity investors tend to dismiss them because they seem complex. However, these actions can materially impact a company’s share price. They also provide investors with a window into the company’s strategy and financial health.

Long-term investors should not rely only on company results to guide smarter investment decisions. Instead, they should understand the context behind the numbers and the broader market trends that shape performance. Company financial results, often called earnings season, are watched closely by equity investors worldwide.

Warren Buffet’s favourite holding period for a stock is “forever”, but even he acknowledges there are valid reasons for selling a stock. Deciding when to sell a stock is something both professional and retail investors grapple with. In fact, it’s accepted wisdom that it is psychologically easier to buy a stock than to sell one.

When it comes to the world of investing, many people have no idea where to start, how to invest, and what the risks are. There are also several myths surrounding trading in shares that need to be debunked to help you make informed decisions that will stand you in good stead in the long run.