Volatility in many asset classes remains low, despite the unclear outlook for tariffs, US growth, jobs and interest rates. Meanwhile, says Chris Holdsworth, Chief Investment Strategist, Investec Wealth & Investment International, the Fed remains cautious about the US economy, and markets are expecting a cut next month and four to five cuts next year.

Inflation is at 3%. The Reserve Bank wants to lock it there. Interest rates are edging down. But the bigger picture is far from settled: • Growth is stuck below 1% • US tariffs threaten trade and jobs • The rand’s strength rests on fragile global sentiment • Consumers are squeezed and government finances remain stretched In this episode of No Ordinary Wednesday, Jeremy Maggs speaks to Investec Chief Economist Annabel Bishop about the shifting sands of macroeconomic policy, and what it means for business, households and markets. Podcast key moments: 00:00 – Introduction 01:16 - What’s behind the SARB’s shift in inflation targeting? And will it or not result in significant rates cut? 04:44 - What would be the key triggers for either accelerating or pausing rate cuts? 07:43 – What sectors are potential bright spots and which structural drags are most likely to keep the annual growth rate anchored near one percent? 11:12 - What scale of impact do you anticipate tariffs will have our growth, trade balance, and broader economic outlook? 13:59 – How resilient is the South African consumer, and where are we seeing the greatest pressure on household spending? 16:22 - The rand has found support from recent dollar weakness, but how much of this strength is simply global sentiment, and how much reflects genuine improvements in South Africa’s economic fundamentals? 18:44 - How would you characterise current financial-market sentiment towards South Africa? 23:29 - Which key economic indicators will you be tracking most closely in the coming months, and why do they matter for South Africa’s outlook? Read more on www.investec.com/now Hosted by seasoned broadcaster, Jeremy Maggs, the No Ordinary Wednesday podcast unpacks the latest economic, business and political news in South Africa, with an all-star cast of investment and wealth managers, economists and financial planners from Investec. Listen in every second Wednesday for an in-depth look at what's moving markets, shaping the economy, and changing the game for your wallet and your business.

Inflation is picking up in the world’s leading economies, and while US inflation surprised on the downside, there are signs of inflationary pressures in other areas. According to Chris Holdsworth, Chief Investment Strategist, Investec Wealth & Investment International, it all points to some lively discussion at this week’s gathering of central bankers at Jackson Hole.

Planning your next trip? Don’t leave home without comprehensive travel insurance, warn the experts. In this episode of Everything Counts, Motheo Khoaripe chats to Paolo Giuricich, head of Investec Travel, and Anrieth Symon, head of Travel at Bryte Insurance about the potential risks of relying solely on ‘free’ or ‘complimentary’ insurance when heading abroad. Together, they break down why travel insurance isn’t just a “nice-to-have”, the difference between complimentary and comprehensive travel insurance, as well as what’s actually included in your policy. So, when you’re planning an international adventure, don’t leave your peace of mind behind. This conversation will empower you to make informed, confident travel decisions. 00:00 Introduction 01:30 Why is travel insurance important? 02:30 What is comprehensive travel insurance? 04:45 Does travel insurance cover medical expenses? 06:00 Is travel insurance mandatory? 07:30 What should travel insurance cover? 10:30 Common travel insurance claims 14:00 What does travel insurance not cover? 15:00 Travel insurance exclusions 16:15 How pre-existing conditions affect your travel insurance 17:30 Travel insurance for seniors 18:30 What does travel insurance cost? 19:15 Complimentary vs comprehensive travel insurance 20:30 What does complimentary Investec travel insurance cover? 21:45 Medical travel insurance vs medical aid 25:10 When should you buy travel insurance? 26:00 Travel insurance for South Africans travelling locally 27:00 Conclusion

Mixed signals persist for the US economy and its corporates. While there was a notable rebound in the composite PMI in July, there were contrasting outcomes across the different series, and bankruptcies are at five-year highs. Wall Street earnings have been strong, but share buybacks and insider buying also give a mixed message says Chris Holdsworth, Chief Investment Strategist, Investec Wealth & Investment International.

What do the colours of a popular toothpaste tell us about how we think about wealth? In the latest episode of the No Ordinary Wednesday podcast, Alexandra Nortier and Marc Romberg, joint heads of Wealth Management at Investec Wealth & Investment International, join Jeremy Maggs to explore how the nature of wealth is changing. Podcast key moments: 00:00 – Introduction 01:16 – Is there a fundamental shift in how ultra-high net worth individuals perceive wealth? 02:36 – A deeper framework to capture the full complexity of a client's financial life 05:37 – What does a humanised framework to wealth management mean? 09:56 – Security and peace of mind through a humanised framework 10:50 - What are your values and purpose of your wealth? 14:00 – In the age of AI and robo advice, the human role has never been more important 16:47 - How are older wealth creators managing the emotional complexities of relinquishing control? 20:22 - How do you balance the commercial imperatives of active portfolio management with a more reflective human led advisory approach? Read more on www.investec.com/now Hosted by seasoned broadcaster, Jeremy Maggs, the No Ordinary Wednesday podcast unpacks the latest economic, business and political news in South Africa, with an all-star cast of investment and wealth managers, economists and financial planners from Investec. Listen in every second Wednesday for an in-depth look at what's moving markets, shaping the economy, and changing the game for your wallet and your business.

Despite a better-than-expected second-quarter GDP print, there are concerns about the US economy as high tariffs kick in and jobs growth stumbles. With nonfarm payrolls revised down sharply, markets now expect US rate cuts next month, despite sticky inflation says Chris Holdsworth, Chief Investment Strategist, Investec Wealth & Investment International.

Everything Counts is a bi-weekly podcast series that dives into money and financial wellness, hosted by 702’s Motheo Khoaripe. Each episode unpacks practical aspects of personal finance-how to save, spend, invest, and make smart decisions to boost your financial wellbeing. In this episode, Motheo explores the trend of unretirement, where people return to work after retiring or delay retirement past the age of 65. Join experts Kate Robson (co-head of Investec, My Investments) and Nicolette Mashile (award-winning financial literacy author also known as the ‘Financial Bunny’) as they discuss what’s driving the shift, the impact of poor savings habits, and why early retirement planning is essential. Learn how financial advisers and tax professionals can help you navigate retirement income, tax implications, and the risks of outliving your retirement savings. Whether you’re planning ahead or already retired, discover practical tips to secure your financial future and make the most of your golden years. 00:00 Introduction 02:00 What is unretirement? 03:00 Why is unretirement becoming the norm? 05:40 Why you shouldn’t withdraw from your retirement savings 07:00 The value of compounding investments 08:00 How to match your current lifestyle in retirement 10:00 Why you need to start planning for retirement early 11:30 What does unretirement look like? 13:00 Unretirement opportunities 14:00 Unretirement and taxation 16:00 The value of a financial advisor in unretirement 17:45 Tax and unretirement 20:00 What happens when retirement funds run out? 21:15 Why you might not have enough saved for retirement 23:30 Make retirement savings a habit 24:30 Conclusion

Despite the uncertainty about tariffs, equity markets have been strong around the world, putting the early April declines behind them. This has coincided with a weaker US dollar and a stronger gold price, says Chris Holdsworth, Chief Investment Strategist, Investec Wealth & Investment International.

From AI-optimised shelf space to influencer-fuelled fast fashion, global consumer trends are in flux. Global Consumer Analyst at Investec UK, Eddy Hargreaves, joins No Ordinary Wednesday to explore retail innovation, brand strategy, and why selling to today’s cautious, connected shopper is trickier than ever. Podcast key moments: 00:00 – Introduction 01:21 – Developed vs. emerging market consumers 02:32 – Inflation, discounts and luxury sales decline 05:05 – How tariffs affect pricing, brand perception and supply chains 07:28 – AI transforming retail 12:36 – Digital media, influencers and personalisation shift 13:07 – Personalisation data at scale 16:07 – Innovation vs. convenience 20:05 – Sustainability ethics under pressure 23:16 – What’s driving the demand for tailored products globally? 25:18 – Beverages and energy drinks markets growing 27:28 – Weight loss drugs reshaping food, apparel, and wellness sectors 31:54 – Temporary trends or structural shifts? 33:40 – Rise of Chinese brands Read more on www.investec.com/now Hosted by seasoned broadcaster, Jeremy Maggs, the No Ordinary Wednesday podcast unpacks the latest economic, business and political news in South Africa, with an all-star cast of investment and wealth managers, economists and financial planners from Investec. Listen in every second Wednesday for an in-depth look at what's moving markets, shaping the economy, and changing the game for your wallet and your business.

US inflation appears to be heading to 3% by September, above the target rate of 2%. According to Chief Investment Strategist of Investec Wealth & Investment International Chris Holdsworth his may explain the Fed’s caution on interest rates, even as Fed chief Jerome Powell remains under pressure from President Donald Trump.

In this final episode, we turn our focus to sustainability and innovation. We go back to where it all begins...the land, the soil, the foundation that supports every vine, every bottle, and every story. Host Lerato Motshologane is joined by Rosa Kruger one of SA's most respected viticulturists and the founder of the Old Vine Project. And Johnathan Grieve, the pioneering force behind Avondale Wines. One of South Africa's most forward-thinking biodynamic wine estates. 00:00: Introduction – Old Vines, innovation and alternatives 02:05: Wild and free – Rosa’s path to purpose 04:41: Art and agriculture – Johnathan’s alternative evolution 06:20: Beyond a buzzword – What does organic really mean? 07:52: More than the soil – A people first approach to sustainability 11:49: The Old Vine Project – Unearthing legacy, celebrating soul 15:58: Listen and learn - Let nature lead the way 22:10: Farming for the future – Longevity and resilience 24:40: Old world, new wisdom – Where does South Africa sit? 27:42: The sustainability dream – Exploring value and vision 29:54: A toast – Growing and glowing together

Discover how your psychology shapes money habits and learn how to build a healthier, more mindful relationship with your finances. In this episode of Everything Counts, we explore how deep-seated psychology and early life experiences shape our financial habits. Host Motheo Khoaripe is joined by Professor Charlene Lew and Investec financial adviser Kgomotso Motlaung to unpack why we sometimes sabotage our savings and how to break the cycle. Learn practical strategies to rebuild a healthier relationship with money − from budgeting and goal-setting to mastering your emotional triggers. 00:00 Introduction 01:50 Psychology behind our money behaviours 02:50 How mindset and personality affects your money behaviour 04:00 How early experiences shape our relationship with money 05:00 Emotional spending and how to stay in control 05:45 Why your relationship with money matters to your financial adviser 07:00 How societal norms affect our relationship with money 08:15 Financial comfort vs discomfort 11:00 The sunk cost fallacy 13:30 How to be rational about financial wellness 14:30 Psychological effects of debt 16:15 How to build positive money habits 18:30 Practical strategies to getting onto a good financial path 20:15 Choosing a financial partner for good financial advice 22:15 How a financial adviser can help you to get your money under control 23:15 The importance of having a vision for the future and setting financial goals 25:15 Conclusion

Based on the latest announcement, the effective US tariff rate on imports is now about 18%, the highest since the 1930s. Despite this, says Chief Investment Strategist of Investec Wealth & Investment International Chris Holdsworth, markets remain relatively calm – and the US equity market is still pricing in strong earnings growth – suggesting that the Trump administration won’t follow through on many of the tariffs.

South Africa has spent more than a decade in economic drift – growing slower than its emerging market peers, losing investor confidence, and missing out on vital tax revenue. So, how do we get back on track? In this episode of No Ordinary Wednesday, Jeremy Maggs is joined by Cumesh Moodliar, CEO of Investec South Africa, and Osagyefo Mazwai, Investment Strategist at Investec Wealth & Investment International, to unpack the hard truths, and outline a roadmap to recovery and long-term prosperity. Podcast key moments: 00:00 – Introduction 02:09 – How will the latest tariffs announced by US President Donald Trump affect the South African economy? 04:36 - How do you interpret the opportunity cost of the lost decade of growth in SA? 07:27 - What should the number one priority be for government? 09:30 – Why is boosting confidence is one of the most powerful levers for growth? 10:27 - What specific reforms do you think will signal that SA is open for business? 12:28 – Has SA we missed the golden opportunity with the commodity boom? 13:59 - How vulnerable is SA to these pressures, and could they complicate our domestic growth strategy? 17:38 - Can current composition of the GNU accelerate reforms quickly enough to match the urgency economic growth? 20:10 - How does South Africa avoid getting left behind in the fight for capital, trade and competitiveness? 21:19 – Is South Africa an attractive investment destination? 22:52 - What could South Africa look like in 2035? Read more on www.investec.com/now Hosted by seasoned broadcaster, Jeremy Maggs, the No Ordinary Wednesday podcast unpacks the latest economic, business and political news in South Africa, with an all-star cast of investment and wealth managers, economists and financial planners from Investec. Listen in every second Wednesday for an in-depth look at what's moving markets, shaping the economy, and changing the game for your wallet and your business.

Wednesday is the day when US President Donald Trump’s Liberation Day tariffs are set to come into effect. There’s still some uncertainty about what will happen, says Chief Investment Strategist of Investec Wealth & Investment International Chris Holdsworth and even a further postponement of the tariffs is a possibility.

Everything Counts is a bi-weekly podcast series that dives into money and financial wellness, hosted by 702’s Motheo Khoaripe. Each episode unpacks practical aspects of personal finance-how to save, spend, invest, and make smart decisions to boost your financial well-being. In this episode, Motheo sits down with Itumeleng Merafe, head of Investec Private Banking, to explore how a wealth mindset can set you up for financial success. They discuss the habits that set successful people apart – from setting financial goals, to building resilience, staying flexible and investing in yourself. You’ll hear powerful insights into the minds of high achievers, how to master the wealth mindset in a world of social comparison, and the difference between savings and investing. Whether you’re just starting to learn about money and investing or looking to level up your financial thinking, this episode delivers practical steps and mindset shifts that can help you take control of your future. 00:00 Introduction 01:00 What is a wealth mindset? 03:00 How do you support a wealth mindset on a daily basis? 05:00 How important is flexibility in building long-term wealth? 06:50 How is wealth created through savings? 08:00 Distinctive habits that contribute to financial success 09:30 Delayed gratification and setting financial goals 12:00 The value of mentorship and learning about money 12:30 Balance is key to the wealth building mindset 13:15 How do you start again when things go wrong? 15.40 Mental shifts for cultivating a growth-oriented mindset 18:30 The importance of adaptation 20:45 Leadership and the wealth mindset 22:30 Setting financial goals with a wealth mindset 24:30 Risk taking and understanding your own risk appetite 27:00 Myth busting: what sets successful people apart? 29:30 The role of your financial advisor in wealth building

In this fourth episode, we spotlight two women winemakers whose award winning wines and youthful leadership style are transforming the traditionally male-dominated industry. Praisy Dlamini, CEO and winemaker at Adama Wines and Kiara Scott, head wine maker at Hazendal Wine Estate are not just making exceptional wines—they’re laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and diverse industry. 00:00: Introduction – What women bring to the wine making process 05:03: From sugarcane to cellar doors – Praisy’s path 07:09: How to navigate success and accolades at such a young age 08:51: First, but not the last – Pioneering protégés 10:56: Praisy’s leadership style 12:19: Inclusion starts with action 14:08: Promo Trophy Wine Show and where to purchase award winning wines 15:04: Real diversity means representation at the top 18:03: Wine by women - Adding the feminine flair 19:50: Mentorship and multiplication - Growing the next generation 23:21: Resilience in real time - What keeps you going? 25:52: Looking ahead - The dream for SA Wine 28:00: A toast to leadership and legacy 28:30 Closing thanks and where to subscribe to Investec Focus Radio

The US dollar has weakened against most global currencies, but remains strong against most, on a purchasing power parity basis. Chief Investment Strategist of Investec Wealth & Investment International Chris Holdsworth argues that should the dollar weaken further, it could be good for emerging market equities and for commodities.

At the midpoint of 2025, the global economy stands at a precarious intersection of cooling inflation on one side, rising geopolitical tensions on the other. In this episode of No Ordinary Wednesday, Jeremy Maggs speaks with Investec Chief Economists Annabel Bishop (South Africa) and Phil Shaw (UK) about the shocks and signals shaping markets from the Strait of Hormuz and the US tariff clock to South Africa’s subdued growth and greylisting outlook. Podcast key moments: 00:00 – Introduction 01:20 - How are markets reacting to Middle East risk premium? 02:37 - How significant is the risk that supply disruptions there could derail the fragile global recovery? 04:00 - What's South Africa’s inflationary forecast and will prices rise at the pump? 05:58 - Can the South African Reserve Bank afford to be hawkish? 08:02 – Do major central banks have room to cut interest rates? 09:58 - How exposed is South Africa's sovereign risk profile to another bout of foreign investor retreat? 13:18 - How has the global economy reacted to the tariff threat? 15:05 - South Africa also bracing itself for what's next on the tariff front 17:16 – Dollar outlook 18:23 - What impact will the dollar weakness have on emerging markets? 20:17 – Will Europe’s growth strengthen in coming months? 21:38 – South Africa’s growth outlook 24:16 – Should South Africa get off the grey list, how would rating agencies react? 26:35 - Critical risks and opportunities in the global economy in the next six months Read more on www.investec.com/now Hosted by seasoned broadcaster, Jeremy Maggs, the No Ordinary Wednesday podcast unpacks the latest economic, business and political news in South Africa, with an all-star cast of investment and wealth managers, economists and financial planners from Investec. Listen in every second Wednesday for an in-depth look at what's moving markets, shaping the economy, and changing the game for your wallet and your business.