All the big conversations from Think Forum 2025

The discussions ranged from global investing megatrends (and how to benefit from them) to actionable insights on ETFs, and offer actionable insights to guide investors through today’s markets.

If you have any questions, reach us at [email protected]

1. The facts about the JSE and delistings

As with everything, the devil is in the details. Patrycja Kula-Verster, Primary Markets: Equity Origination Manager of the JSE, discussed which firms delisted and how the JSE is responding to this.

Our expert panel:

• Patrycja Kula-Verster, Primary Markets: Equity Origination Manager, JSE
• Nivedna Maharaj, Head of Global Markets Retail Investments, Standard Bank
• Johann Erasmus, Executive Director, 1nvest

2. Megatrends shaping indices
   We pride ourselves on the diverse array of index-tracking funds we offer, so you have the tools to build a strong portfolio that contributes to your financial goals. In this second panel discussion, we explored how investors benefit from more indices on the JSE. (Hint: Greater granularity and more choice.) This also allows South African investors to benefit from global megatrends like clean energy and digital disruption.

Our expert panel:

• Len Jordaan, Head of Client Coverage for South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa, S&P Dow Jones Indices
• Omar Moufti, Head of Sector, Thematic and Commodity Product Strategy, iShares by BlackRock
• Lungile Macuacua, Investment Analyst, 1nvest

Noteworthy number

R102 billion

The total market capitalisation added to the JSE by listings in 2023. This means that, despite poor press, the JSE is adding new capital faster than it is losing it to delistings.

3. Use cases for ETFs in your portfolio and putting them to practical use

We love how versatile ETFs are. As investment wrappers, they are tools that give us the freedom to package all sorts of assets in purposefully constructed bundles.

Our panellists provided colour on the ways our clients are using ETFs as building blocks to construct robust portfolios in a cost-effective way, simplify diversification, and unlock new opportunities locally and offshore.

Our expert panel:

• Melissa Dyer, Senior Wealth Manager, CFP, Harbour Wealth
• Nerina Visser, ETF Strategist and Advisor, ETFSA
• Ryan Basdeo, Head of Index Portfolio Management, 1nvest

We hope you enjoy these rich discussions. Be sure to discuss these issues further with your financial advisor if you see scope for improving your portfolio.