January has been a volatile month for global and SA equities. Stock markets experienced a “Trump bump” after his inauguration on January 20, driven by expectations of market-friendly policies. However, equities retreated to end the month with modest gains as investors weighed tariff uncertainties, shifting interest rate expectations, and growing concerns about the sustainability of…
The range of available investment options continues to grow, making it increasingly challenging to select the right one for your desired returns. Future Forex, a finance firm founded by Cape Town entrepreneurs Harry Scherzer and Josh Kotlowitz, offers a compelling investment product called Crypto Arbitrage, which provides investors with excellent diversification for their traditional portfolios.…
“If your compassion does not include yourself, it is incomplete.” (Jack Kornfield) There’s a common question financial advisers get asked when discussing life insurance: “Why should I give up some of my income when I am alive so that my family can be rich when I am dead?” It’s more than just a provocative enquiry,…
“Risk comes from not knowing what you are doing.” (Warren Buffett) Choosing a retirement property involves considering location, cost, amenities, and healthcare services. Often, retirees prefer not to deal with the hassle of property maintenance and opt to stay in a property maintained by someone else. This also provides a sense of community. Life Rights…
2024’s rally sets a high bar to beat The S&P 500 last year experienced its best two-year stretch since 1998, surging 23% in 2024 alone and breaking above 6,000 points. However, momentum slowed considerably in the final quarter as Trump’s election victory and a more hawkish interest rate outlook introduced new uncertainties to the world…
“If you want something done right, do it yourself” – (Unofficial motto of Gen X) Gen X is the somewhat enigmatic generation group wedged between Baby Boomers and Millennials. Born from 1965 – 1980, they’re currently between 45 and 60 years old. What’s in a name? The term ‘Generation X’ was first used in a…
“The secret of Big Macs is that they’re not very good, but every one is not very good in exactly the same way.” (Joel Spolsky) The concept is straightforward: in theory, the same things should cost the same globally. The Big Mac is a great product to compare because it’s sold in over 100 countries…
“Some things are up to us and some things are not up to us.” (Epictetus) Investing can often feel hard. The keys to success may seem daunting. Is your fund manager making the right decisions? Is the market going up or down? Is the rand strong or weak? These things often play on our thoughts…
“Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans” (John Lennon) Millennials comprise 25 to 35% of SA’s population, representing various interests, backgrounds, and lifestyles. It’s also helpful to distinguish between older Millennials and younger ones. The older cohort grew up with PCs and video games, while the younger Millennials were raised…
While initial enthusiasm surrounding Trump’s likely market-friendly economic policies drove the S&P 500 index above 6,000 points for the first time, investors are now carefully weighing the opportunities and risks ahead. South Africa’s JSE All Share Index fell behind, moving sideways during the month. Treasury pick calms some market nerves Markets generally welcomed Trump’s selection…