Taking over all headlines at the beginning of 2022, the Russia Ukraine tension seems to have taken a back seat as the world encounters the politics of billionaires, the fear of EU instability and temperamental weather. The war however is far from over, with conflict exacerbating the rise of inflation and supply challenges. Hot on the press for the month of April was Elon Musk’s hostile takeover of Twitter, as well as the French election and devastation in KwaZulu Natal. 

A review of recent international developments, with added commentary on our Best Investment View portfolio.

As we slowly inch towards year end and quietly amongst ourselves hope for a relaxed festive season, economic and market developments are certainly cause for much excitement. November was all but a quiet month: rate hikes, a renomination at the Fed, Black Friday and a new variant of the Coronavirus; much to keep us focused. Read our last newsletter for 2021 by Ashley Knight, CFA, below.

In this month’s newsletter, Ashley Pedlar, CFA, gives a quick update on relevant tech news.

A recap of the recent budget speech. Overall, the government is aiming to reduce the budget deficit and stabilise the debt-to-GDP ratio. Over the past year, the budget deficit has doubled and the shortfall in revenue is approximated at R 213.2 billion. At current levels, this number is projected to increase, resulting in financing costs of R 338.6 billion for the 2023/2024 period. The Treasury has noted this fact and have based their strategy thereon with the aim to “return public finances to a sustainable position”.