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As we enter 2025, cautious optimism prevails among investors. South Africa's recent positive developments, like reduced interest rates and no loadshedding, signal local growth potential, though local markets trail global indices. Globally, Trump's return influences markets with pro-business policies, potentially reshaping trade and boosting sectors like finance and energy. AI continues to be a major investment theme, promising long-term growth. Despite Federal Reserve uncertainties, the S&P 500 is expected to rise, highlighting the need for a balanced investment approach between local resilience and global opportunities. Strategic, informed investing is key to navigating the dynamic landscape this year. Brenthurst Wealth Management (Pty) Ltd BizNews Brian Butchart https://lnkd.in/daYqkDSD

Thrilled to announce the addition of our newest solar project in Cape Town to our portfolio! We're proud to support South Peninsula High with renewable energy, taking another step towards a greener, more sustainable planet.

Once teeming with lions, black rhinos, and elephants, the Eastern Cape saw its wildlife dwindle as settlers transformed the landscape into farmland. Adrian Gardiner, however, initiated a conservation revival with the Shamwari Private Game Reserve. His son, Paul Gardiner, now envisions an even grander project: a mega-biosphere covering 5-6 million hectares, aiming to make the Eastern Cape a new Kruger National Park. In a BizNews chat, he discussed creating wildlife corridors to connect reserves and overcoming obstacles like infrastructure and community engagement. This ambitious plan, potentially spanning decades, could see the region host the Big Seven, including marine giants. https://lnkd.in/dNBUwxuX

It was so nice to try to recreate a bit of South African atmosphere with Paul Gardiner in chilly England. He has a grand vision of a Kruger equivalent in the Eastern Cape. Picture this: an elephant wandering in search of greener pastures, passing beneath a highway through the wildlife corridors they plan to build. (have to admit for a second my imagination ran away with me when I imagined them crossing on a bridge). https://lnkd.in/eFexYPCf

Global mobility presents both opportunities and challenges, particularly when families are involved. When South African parents consider joining their children abroad, several factors come into play. Firstly, immigration rights vary by country; some offer family reunification visas, while others might require alternative pathways like citizenship by investment. Financial readiness is crucial; living costs and property prices differ significantly in South Africa. Tax implications, especially capital gains and pension withdrawals, require careful planning. Healthcare availability and quality should be assessed, considering public and private options. The potential for further moves by your children and the feasibility of returning to South Africa are also important. Building new social connections and updating legal documents like wills are final considerations to ensure a smooth transition. With thorough preparation, this move can enrich the family's life experience. Sable International BizNews https://lnkd.in/dK8AeGWT

Estate planning is crucial for securing your family's financial future, particularly in South Africa, where cultural, economic, and legal dynamics influence wealth transfer. A key, often overlooked aspect is preparing your children to handle their inheritance responsibly. Receiving significant wealth can lead to poor financial decisions or family disputes without guidance. Engaging children in age-appropriate financial discussions, teaching them about budgeting, saving, investing, and debt management, and introducing them to your financial advisors can empower them to manage their inheritance wisely. Transparency about your estate plan, understanding legal implications, and fostering values-based wealth management is essential to ensure your legacy is used in alignment with your principles, preparing your children not just financially but emotionally for their future roles. Brenthurst Wealth Management (Pty) Ltd BizNews https://lnkd.in/dWyZzAFY

Pythagoras, born around 570 BCE on Samos, is best known for the Pythagorean theorem, yet his legacy extends far beyond this mathematical principle. In an era where mathematics and spirituality were deeply intertwined, Pythagoras founded the Pythagorean Brotherhood in Croton, Italy, advocating for a life melding philosophy, mysticism, and mathematics. Influenced by his journeys through Egypt and Babylon, he taught that numbers held cosmic significance, embodying the essence of reality. His followers embraced vegetarianism and communal living, believing in the mystical power of numbers. Despite facing persecution, the Pythagorean school's impact on mathematics and philosophical thought is enduring, underscoring the harmony between numbers and the universe. GH Thacker's article was first published on FirstRand Perspectives. BizNews https://lnkd.in/dMp_qqXw

In today's world, personal growth is a crossroads between cognitive enhancers and prolonged adolescence. Historically, adolescence was short, quickly leading to adulthood. Modern technology extends education, delaying adulthood but potentially limiting opportunities. While stimulants like Adderall promise an intellectual boost, they carry risks. Conversely, remaining in an extended youth phase isn't a surefire route to success. The optimal path might be mentorship, matching youthful vigour with experienced guidance and effectively nurturing growth while filling skill gaps, especially in regions like South Africa. BizNews https://lnkd.in/dEG-44Sn

While stock exchanges and marketplaces have embraced digital transformation, it's surprising that some sectors, like the cattle market, have barely evolved since the 1990s. Traditional elements like agents, brokers, and the cacophony of live auctions persist. However, change is on the horizon thanks to Murray Roos, a former London Stock Exchange executive with deep roots in Southern African cattle farming. Now based in the UK, Roos has launched LiveStockEx, an innovative online platform to modernise cattle trading. In a BizNews interview, he highlighted the current market's outdated nature, envisioning LiveStockEx for cattle, sheep, and pigs. Linda van Tilburg https://lnkd.in/dD8EZNkk

"Wood, Iron and Steel" is a groundbreaking book that delves into South Africa's maritime history, focusing on 60 shipwrecks scattered along the Western Cape's coast. Unveiled by Bruce Henderson and Kelly Graham of Wreckless Marine, this work culminates a three-year underwater expedition. Employing advanced scanning technology alongside meticulous on-site dives and research, the duo has brought stories from 1698 to 2009 to light. Each shipwreck's entry includes technical specifics, historical context, details of its demise, and current state, all illustrated with stunning photographs, paintings, and sonar images. BizNews https://lnkd.in/dpd77awk