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Over the past few weeks we’ve highlighted how South Africa is poised for a massive upgrade in the talent occupying its Parliamentary benches. As political competition intensifies with the imminent loss of the ANC’s majority, new faces and new parties are being drawn in. Among them are ActionSA’s Athol Trollip and Pieter Scribante who share insights with BizNews editor Alec Hogg.

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In a Q&A session at the BizNews London Conference, Alec Hogg and Sean Peche discussed investment strategies, focusing on the potential risks and benefits of current tech stocks and the importance of value investing. Peche emphasised the necessity of evaluating a company's intrinsic worth before investing and highlighted opportunities outside the U.S., particularly in undervalued European and emerging market stocks. He also addressed the challenges in forecasting long-term growth, the impact of geopolitical factors on investments, and the importance of avoiding speculative narratives.

In a discussion led by Alec Hogg, GG Alcock and Warren Wheatley addressed South Africa's economic transformation, comparing it to historical periods of rapid wealth creation. They highlighted the burgeoning entrepreneurial spirit within townships, the shift towards digital transactions, and the resilience of informal economies. Challenges such as limited access to capital and formal financial markets were noted, alongside the potential for innovative solutions and structured investments to stimulate growth. The discussion emphasised the untapped potential of informal businesses and the need for supportive infrastructure and financial inclusion to drive substantial economic change.

After a four-year hiatus, South Africa has returned to the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show in London this year. Their exhibition, which showcased the Cape Mountains and South Africa’s biodiversity, featuring proteas and fynbos, won a Gold Medal, ‘Best Exhibit in the Pavilion,’ and ‘Best New Design’ awards. South Africa has participated in the show since 1976, earning 37 gold awards over the years. However, the country’s florists were absent for the past four years due to the COVID-19 pandemic and a decision by the South African National Biodiversity Institute to withdraw from the show. Keith Kirsten, a renowned horticulturist, spoke to BizNews from Chelsea about how head designer Leon Kluge and artist Tristan Woudberg led a group of volunteers to create this year’s spectacular display using 22,000 proteas and fynbos. The project came together with the crucial support of major donors, including the Rupert Nature Foundation and the Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, leading to South Africa’s most significant success ever at the show.

Andrew Middleton, GoSolr CEO, discussed the significant investments from Standard Bank, an international climate-focused investor, and African Rainbow Capital in his solar energy company. He highlighted South Africa's energy crisis, emphasising the potential for solar solutions despite current challenges. Middleton advocates for local investment, community involvement, and improving infrastructure to address the country’s power supply issues. He explained GoSolr's flexible subscription model and its impact on the residential market, stressing the importance of confidence and innovative solutions for sustainable energy and economic growth in South Africa.

During a Q&A session at the BizNews conference in London, Alec Hogg spoke to forensic investigator Paul O’Sullivan on crime in South Africa. O’Sullivan highlighted the dire state of the SAPS police force, unable to handle the crime volume due to poor resource allocation. He shared cases of rampant white-collar crime and emphasized the need for improved police leadership and judicial efficiency to combat the overwhelming criminal activities. Despite the challenges, O’Sullivan remains optimistic about potential improvements in the justice system.