Despite recent shocks, global connectedness rebounded in 2022, to refute the perception of a move to regionalisation. In a world of paradox, opportunities and threats co-exist, and there is heightened uncertainty. In the past year, socio-economic conflict such as the Russian/Ukraine war intensified an unprecedented global theme of inflation, interest rates, rising food and fuel prices, and the general cost of living, contributing to jittery market confidence.

South Africa feels these issues acutely as an emerging market wrestling with high levels of unemployment, poverty, sustained low economic growth, and a dwindling energy supply.

Investors look to financial planners and investment managers to help them navigate the short-term turbulence with the long-term need for returns. Here at the pinnacle of complexity, our ability to continuously adapt and be resilient may be our saving grace.

Our recent Investment Insights conference focussed on the future and how we can navigate our new world of paradox, complexity and opportunity together.