by Elizabeth.H | Jul 18, 2024 | Newsroom
In the annals of history, there are individuals whose legacies transcend the boundaries of time, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of generations to come. Nelson Mandela, affectionately known as Madiba, stands as one such luminary whose flame continues to burn brightly, illuminating the path of resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to justice. As we reflect on his life, it becomes evident that Madiba’s influence persists, urging us forward even in the face of contemporary challenges.
A Timeless Legacy:
Nelson Mandela’s life story is a testament to the triumph of the human spirit over adversity. From his early activism against apartheid to his imprisonment on Robben Island and eventual presidency of a free South Africa, Madiba’s journey is an inspiration that transcends generations. His unwavering dedication to the principles of equality, justice, and reconciliation set a precedent for leaders worldwide.
A Guiding Light:
Though Madiba is no longer physically present among us, his teachings and values serve as a guiding light, illuminating the path towards a better future. In times when the world grapples with socio-political uncertainties and global challenges, Mandela’s legacy reminds us to draw strength from within and to strive for a world where compassion, understanding, and unity prevail.
Missed but Never Forgotten:
The sentiment of missing Nelson Mandela is universal. His absence is deeply felt, not only by those who had the privilege of knowing him personally but by the entire global community. However, instead of succumbing to the melancholy of his departure, we must channel our emotions into embodying the principles he stood for — principles that emphasize the importance of resilience, forgiveness, and the pursuit of justice.
A Call to Action:
In imagining what Madiba would say to us today, faced with the myriad challenges of the 21st century, one can almost hear his charismatic voice urging us onward. With a unique blend of charm and admonishment, Mandela would undoubtedly call upon each of us to rise above adversity, to reject the notion of failure, and to be the best versions of ourselves.
Mandela’s Leadership in Today’s World:
If Nelson Mandela were alive in our current times, his leadership would undoubtedly be a beacon of hope. His ability to bridge divides, promote inclusivity, and lead with humility would be invaluable in addressing the complex issues that define our era. Mandela’s approach to leadership, grounded in moral courage and a commitment to dialogue, serves as a timeless model for those seeking to navigate the challenges of today’s world.
As we honour Nelson Mandela’s memory, let us not merely mourn his absence but celebrate the enduring flame of inspiration that he ignited within us. Madiba’s legacy challenges us to confront our collective challenges with resilience, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to justice. In doing so, we ensure that the flame he lit continues to shine brightly, guiding us toward a future that reflects the principles for which he so ardently stood.
by Elizabeth.H | Jul 10, 2024 | Newsroom
Foreign Exchange is the intersection of different currencies, the evolution of barter and in many places on earth taken completely for granted. Currencies are easily convertible into any other currency, crypto or product you choose. Companies like Revolut make holding and paying in multiple currencies easy and cheap (my daughter told me this). Sadly, for several reasons, this is not the case in most African countries. Many African nations have trade deficits, have borrowed heavily in USD, are heavily dependent on commodities, and have high inflation and low foreign currency reserves. The weakness and non-convertibility of these African currencies are the result of a complex interplay of economic vulnerabilities, political instability, structural deficiencies, and external pressures. Addressing these issues requires comprehensive policy reforms, improved governance, economic diversification, and enhanced financial sector development. The latter is something that can be addressed by the ‘market’ rather than the incumbent governments and there are numerous initiatives and new products. Stable coins and cryptocurrencies are already widely used for remittances and currency repatriation and individuals are using them to hold value as local currencies often weaken and savings dwindle. These products solve real problems in Africa. Corporations would probably use these products more if Central Banks could make up their mind on how to regulate and license them. DeFi is built on blockchain technology, which is relatively new and complex. Many regulators may lack the technical expertise to understand its mechanisms and implications fully. The DeFi space evolves rapidly, with new products and services constantly emerging. This makes it difficult for regulators to keep up with the latest developments and craft appropriate regulations. Governments are keen to promote technological innovation and financial inclusion, both of which DeFi promises. However, they must balance this with the need to protect consumers and maintain financial stability. DeFi comes with risks such as fraud, money laundering, and cyber threats. Regulators need to carefully consider these risks and develop frameworks to mitigate them without stifling innovation. But don’t be fooled, the future of FX looks very different. Banks have seen fees halve in the last 10 years on most FX transactions as they become more efficient and commoditised. There is competition from digital wallets, digital payment platforms and DeFi products, all looking to bring the cost down and speed up settlement and that’s even before we get to AI…
Banks are losing market share in most of their traditional areas as alternatives to the traditional model spring up all around us. At base, all a bank does is hold value for us and then lend against that value. Crypto firms have been doing this for many years, some more responsibly than others. By the way, why should we be shocked about the FTX, Genesis and Voyager failures when the likes of Lehman Bros imploded and governments have had to bail out some of the world’s biggest and best credit banks, the likes of Citigroup, Deutsche Bank, Barclays, UBS and Credit Suisse. As with all new areas, the market is weeding out the poorly run and separating the wheat from the chaff. DeFi products are here to stay and will revolutionise financial markets, including FX, in 10 years blockchain rails will be taken entirely for granted.
FX issues also slow economic growth both nationally and regionally. One of the major barriers to intra-African trade is a lack of uniformity of regulation between countries and consequent difficulties in converting one African currency to another. The African Union is working on issuing tokens to solve this problem. Tokens will in many cases be backed by commodities and specifically aimed at encouraging more activity in The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The simplest ideas are often the best and asset or commodity-backed tokens are simply a more transparent and sophisticated form of barter.
DeFi versions of all currently traded and broked TradFi products will soon be available, ignore these developments at your peril. Numerous companies such as African FX Partners, ETM Capital and Forus Digital Payments are at the forefront of these developments, designing and developing efficient and cost-effective financial solutions for the next generation. These new products will be hugely impactful in Africa as well as commercially valuable, allowing individuals access to asset classes currently beyond their reach and allowing businesses and SMEs in particular access to a much wider potential investor base. Decentralising financial services at scale is not just possible, it is happening…get involved!
by Elizabeth.H | Jul 3, 2024 | Newsroom
In the past decade, Africa has seen a significant shift in its financial landscape, particularly in terms of dollar liquidity and debt structure. This article aims to shed light on these changes and their implications for the continent’s economic future.
The total external debt of Africa was estimated at $1.1 trillion in 2022 and is projected to rise to $1.13 trillion by 2023. This increase can be attributed to several factors, including the lingering effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on economies and their fiscal space, rising costs of energy and food prices due to the Russian-Ukraine war, and the escalating costs of adapting to climate change.
Interestingly, yearly bond issuances in Africa have seen a substantial increase, moving from an average of $10 billion annually in the early 2000s, to about $80 billion annually by 2016–2020. This trend has been driven by the very low global interest rates, with investors seeking yields in emerging markets.
Moreover, the structure of Africa’s debt has undergone a dramatic transformation in the past decade or more, accentuating a trend that started in the mid-2000s. Non-Paris Club bilateral creditors and commercial creditors have increasingly become major sources of Africa’s sovereign debt. While bilateral debt represented 52% in 2000, this declined to 25% by 2021; commercial debt’s share of total debt increased from 17% in 2000 to 43% in 2021.
One of the most notable changes has been the rapid growth in debt owed to China. The share of China’s debt rose from just 1% of total debt in the mid-2000s to 14% of total external debt by 2021. Most of this debt is for infrastructure.
Blue chip corporates, renowned for their reputable and financially sound business, play a significant role in Africa’s financial landscape. These companies are often at the forefront of managing liquidity in innovative and effective ways. Their size and stature mean they are better equipped to weather economic downturns and offset weaknesses in one market with strengths in another. This ability to balance across diverse markets contributes to their liquidity management.
Moreover, blue chip companies are typically well-capitalized with market capitalizations often in the billions of dollars. This financial robustness allows them to navigate through downturns and maintain liquidity. Furthermore, these companies often have high credit ratings, which can facilitate access to capital markets and enhance their liquidity positions. Although they are robust, ICAP Africa does assist clients in Africa with liquidity.
Investment in blue-chip companies is often deemed less risky by investors due to their stability and reputation. Their shares are highly liquid, making them a popular choice among investors. This high liquidity, combined with reliable capital returns and consistent dividend payments, make blue chip shares among the most reliable portfolio investments.
Blue chip corporates in Africa, as elsewhere, are key players in managing dollar liquidity. Their strategies and approaches provide valuable insights for other businesses navigating the complex financial landscape. These insights benefit us to give us sound advice to our clients.
These shifts in Africa’s financial landscape present both challenges and opportunities. As we move forward, it will be crucial for policymakers, investors, and stakeholders to understand these dynamics and their implications for Africa’s economic future.
by Elizabeth.H | Jun 18, 2024 | Newsroom
Africa is a land of opportunity, a lion waking from its slumber with a roar of economic potential. A recent AVCA survey revealed 69% of African investors are eyeing this growth, but before they take the plunge, there’s a crucial detail to consider: foreign exchange (FX).
Think of FX as the mane of this majestic beast – beautiful, but prone to unpredictable fluctuations. Investors, like seasoned tamers, know these fluctuations can devour their hard-earned returns.
But FX isn’t the only wild card. Liquidity, the ease of converting investments back to cash, can also be a hidden jungle cat. Imagine pouring your heart into a thriving African venture, only to find your profits locked in a cage of illiquidity.
Now, for those already braving the African savanna, the rewards are undeniable. A booming population and economic expansion offer fertile ground for business. But navigating this terrain requires caution. Hedging against interest rate and FX volatility is like carrying a taming stick – essential for ensuring the future health of your investment.
Central banks, the guardians of this economic ecosystem, can throw unexpected curveballs. Falling afoul of their regulations can leave you scrambling for explanations, like a tourist caught without a visa.
Africa’s allure is undeniable, but for the uninitiated, the unfamiliar environment and volatility can be a daunting proposition. It’s a land of breathtaking beauty, yes, but also a place to tread carefully, with a keen eye for the financial intricacies lurking beneath the surface.
So, the next time you hear the call of the African lion, remember: the rewards are great, but so are the challenges. ICAP Africa can assist by helping you understand the currency fluctuations, liquidity issues, and regulatory landscape, you can navigate this exciting continent with confidence, and ensure your investment isn’t just another zebra in the herd.
by Elizabeth.H | May 30, 2024 | Newsroom
Unleashing Opportunities in Complex Terrains
In the heart of Africa’s bustling markets, characterized by their unique challenges and untapped potential, lies an array of opportunities waiting to be seized. While managing businesses in Africa might be more arduous compared to other regions globally, the continent’s promise keeps investors and corporations relentlessly pursuing its latent prospects. The convergence of three innovative companies at a recent conference underlines a shared belief: Africa’s future is bright, and the pathways to its treasures are increasingly navigable.
ICAP: A Global Powerhouse Paving the Way
A key player in this optimistic outlook is ICAP, a subsidiary of TP ICAP – the world’s largest money-broking company. With a formidable presence spanning 63 offices across 28 countries and agencies in over 20 additional nations, ICAP is a global powerhouse. The company’s forte lies in interbank broking and trading a wide range of financial derivatives and commodities. A recent expansion into the realm of cryptocurrencies, with a dedicated trading desk in London, highlights ICAP’s commitment to innovation and adaptability.
ICAP Africa: Tailoring Solutions for Unique Challenges
The African wing of ICAP, led by a team of experts, focuses on providing risk management tools and solutions specifically designed for the African market. Unlike their traditional banking counterparts, ICAP Africa caters to corporate and institutional clients, offering bespoke services that address the fragmented, opaque, and illiquid nature of African financial markets. The team is adept at aiding clients in repatriating funds from challenging jurisdictions using creative methods like bilateral payments and commodity consignments.
Bridging Gaps with Innovative Products
ICAP Africa is not content with just filling existing gaps; it’s actively expanding its service range to address unmet needs. This includes developing funding avenues for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) and enhancing access to lucrative yields for individual investors.
The Revolutionary Impact of DeFi and Cryptocurrencies
Decentralized Finance (DeFi) products, cryptocurrencies, and stable coins are not merely trendy buzzwords in this context; they are practical solutions to real-world problems in African markets. These innovative tools have the potential to tackle three significant challenges: lack of liquidity, transparency, and uniform regulation.
Tokenization: A Game-Changer
Tokenization stands out as a rapidly evolving field within the DeFi space, boasting immense utility in the emerging WEB3 world. By transforming real-world assets into digital tokens on a blockchain, tokenization introduces numerous benefits:
Fractional Ownership and Accessibility: Tokenized assets can be broken down into smaller units, allowing partial ownership and opening doors to investors who otherwise couldn’t participate due to high minimum investment thresholds.
Reduced Costs and Increased Speed: Eliminating intermediaries and administrative layers drastically cuts costs and accelerates transaction speeds.
Transparency and Innovation: The transparency of tokenized assets ensures that they are easy to track and value, fostering trust and spurring innovative financial products.
In the African context, tokenization democratizes access to high-yield investments, connecting local assets with a global pool of investors and enhancing fundraising capabilities.
Blockchain in Debt and Equity Markets
The issuance of debt and equity products on the blockchain is another frontier. Although blockchain-issued bonds and IPOs have existed for some years, their adoption has been slow, often hindered by regulatory challenges. Yet, the benefits are undeniable: lower costs, access to a broader investor base, and suitability for smaller-scale capital raises. This is particularly relevant for Africa, where SMEs form the backbone of the economy but often find themselves trapped in a funding gap.
Overcoming Barriers
Despite these opportunities, challenges remain. The crypto and DeFi markets have suffered reputational damage due to high-profile failures. Additionally, regulatory uncertainty and a general lack of understanding about these products persist. However, the potential for growth and opportunity is immense.
Embracing the Future
Blockchain and DeFi technologies are not fleeting trends but are here to stay and will likely become the new norm. As these technologies become more integrated and accepted, they will revolutionize access to funds and investments. The call to action is clear: by embracing and understanding these innovative tools, companies and individuals in Africa can unlock unprecedented growth and opportunity. The future of African markets is bright, and the path forward is increasingly digital.
by Elizabeth.H | Apr 30, 2024 | Newsroom
South Africa stands at a crucial juncture in its economic journey, grappling with challenges that hinder its full potential. From restrictive exchange control laws to complex interactions with the Competition Commission, rising criminality, and ailing infrastructure, the nation faces impediments that deter foreign capital investment. We delve into the imperative need for South Africa to embrace clear and consistent policies, creating an environment conducive to investment and paving the way for sustained economic prosperity.
South Africa’s economic terrain is marred by obstacles that compromise its appeal to foreign investors. Restrictive exchange control laws act as barriers, hindering the free flow of capital and dissuading potential investors. The intricacies of dealing with the Competition Commission introduce uncertainties and bureaucratic hurdles, further diminishing the nation’s attractiveness. The prevalence of criminal activities poses a significant risk, eroding investor confidence and amplifying challenges faced by businesses. Ailing infrastructure compounds these issues, limiting the nation’s capacity to support robust economic activities.
To overcome these challenges and position South Africa as an attractive investment destination, a paradigm shift towards clear and consistent policies is imperative. Such policies should be designed to foster a capital-friendly environment, offering the stability and predictability that investors seek. This isn’t merely a suggestion; it’s a crucial prescription for the nation’s economic growth and prosperity.
Addressing the restrictive nature of exchange control laws is paramount. Streamlining and liberalizing these regulations will facilitate the seamless movement of capital, encouraging foreign investors to explore opportunities in South Africa. A transparent and simplified exchange control framework will not only attract foreign capital but also promote a more efficient allocation of resources within the economy.
A comprehensive review and simplification of the dealings with the Competition Commission are essential. Transparency, efficiency, and a reduction in bureaucratic complexities will create an environment where businesses can confidently navigate regulatory processes. This, in turn, will contribute to a positive investment climate, fostering trust and interest from both local and international investors.
The prevalence of criminal activities is a significant deterrent for potential investors. A concerted effort to address and reduce crime rates is crucial for instilling confidence in the business community. Collaborative initiatives between the government, law enforcement agencies, and private enterprises can create a secure environment that is conducive to investment and economic development.
Investing in infrastructure is a strategic move to bolster economic activities. Upgrading and maintaining critical infrastructure, such as transportation, energy, and communication networks, will enhance the nation’s competitiveness. A robust infrastructure not only attracts foreign direct investment but also lays the foundation for sustained economic growth by enabling efficient business operations.
South Africa’s path to economic revitalization lies in the adoption of clear, consistent policies that prioritize a capital-friendly environment. By addressing the challenges posed by restrictive exchange control laws, complex Competition Commission processes, criminality, and ailing infrastructure, the nation can unlock its full economic potential. The time for decisive action is now, and by embracing these reforms, South Africa can navigate its economic crossroads and emerge as a beacon for foreign capital investment, driving sustainable growth and prosperity for the nation and its people.
