South Africa at a Crossroads: Power, Policy and Potential

The past year has seen political shifts, economic challenges, and growing pressure for reform but South Africa's greatest strength may lie in what remains possible. In our latest podcast, portfolio manager Nancy Hossack and political economist Frans Cronje unpack the country’s current trajectory — from faltering business and consumer confidence to the fragile gains under the Government of National Unity. Yet amid the uncertainty, a simple but powerful insight emerged: the entire country is the low-hanging fruit.

Building Future-Proof Portfolios: Investing in Long-Term Innovation

In this episode, Foord Singapore portfolio managers Brian Arcese and Ishreth Hassen dive deep into the evolving landscape of innovation. They explore what truly defines transformative technologies versus short-lived trends, and how investors can navigate this complex space. From AI to biotech, cloud computing, and digital finance, they discuss the real value created by innovation and how it drives long-term returns.

MARKETS IN A NUTSHELL — FOR JUNE 2025

Global markets advanced again in June after the rapid resolution of the 12-day Israel–Iran war and a further détente in the US–China trade battle. This one-two punch of geopolitical and tariff relief boosted investor sentiment, fuelling broad-based gains across risk assets. US share markets were especially resurgent — recouping first quarter losses. Chinese equities resumed their gains of earlier in the year.

South Africa at a Crossroads: Power, Policy and Potential

Join Foord portfolio manager Nancy Hossack in conversation with political economist, Frans Cronje for an exclusive webinar on South Africa’s political and economic landscape. The discussion will cover the Government of National Unity, the fallout from Budget 2025, shifting power dynamics, and South Africa’s strategic ties with the United States. Discover what must change for the nation to unlock its promise as a leading emerging market — and what it all means for investors.

MARKETS IN A NUTSHELL — FOR MAY 2025

In our monthly podcast, ‘Markets in a nutshell’, Linda Eedes explores what made May 2025 one of the strongest months for equity markets in the past year and whether the rebound is built on solid ground. She also reflects on how Foord’s portfolios performed during the month, highlighting the value of cautious optimism and global diversification.

MARKETS IN A NUTSHELL — FOR MAY 2025

May brought a new pontiff to Rome and a fresh breeze to markets after Beijing and Washington stepped back from the tariff cliff. The two countries agreed to steeply cut bilateral tariffs and pause further escalations for 90 days. Investors cheered the news: US equities enjoyed their best month in over a year, with the S&P 500 Index jumping 6.2%. Developed market stocks rallied broadly, recovering strongly after April’s turmoil. Emerging markets gained less enthusiastically, with Chinese equities posting a more moderate rise.

Beyond Borders: Building Resilient Portfolios in a Low-Growth World

Join Wim Murray, JC Xue and Linda Eedes for insight into investment strategies for the slowing global economy. We will explore the undervalued South African franchises built to deliver in a low-growth economy and pivot to China’s world-class innovators that offer exciting entry points for astute, long-term investors.

From Underdog to Innovator: China’s High-Tech Ascent Amid Trade Tensions

In this episode, Foord portfolio managers Brian Arcese and JC Xue discuss the recent US-China 90-day tariff rollback and what it means for the future of trade and investment. They explore China’s shift toward high-tech innovation despite sanctions and how this is reshaping the country’s economy and long-term growth prospects.

MARKETS IN A NUTSHELL — FOR APRIL 2025

In our monthly podcast, ‘Markets in a nutshell’, Linda Eedes unpacks the month shaped by Trump’s surprise tariff announcement, which rattled global markets and rekindled fears of a trade war and US recession. From equity market whiplash and a rare bond sell-off to gold’s ascent and copper’s slump, she explores the mounting signs of economic strain.

MARKETS IN A NUTSHELL — FOR APRIL 2025

April began as if the markets had fallen victim to an April Fool’s joke — but investors weren't laughing. US President Trump’s much anticipated ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs took effect on 2 April, and all countries suffered a 10% baseline tariff. Additional reciprocal tariffs targeted 60 countries and territories with swingeing duties in proportion to their trade surpluses with the US. China was hit especially hard in aggregate.