Simon’s weekly wrap: Trade shifts, grid reform and gold gains

I chatted with Wandile Sihlobo, chief economist at the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa, on a possible tariff deal with China. At this point, it is a framework agreement, so lots of work still needs to be done. But in a world where trade is rapidly changing, it is important that we engage with our trade partners.

You can also listen to this podcast on iono.fm here.

In the President’s Sona, he spoke a fair bit about power, the role of Eskom and the transmission of power. I chatted with Seithati Bolipombo from alternative energy company Mulilo, asking her about the shifts in our energy mix and the demand for renewable energy for our grid.

You can also listen to this podcast on iono.fm here.

Being an entrepreneur is hard work, and I spoke with Colin Timmis from Xero about their recent survey showing the stresses that many find themselves under. He made a great point about how being busy is not a badge of honour, and we need to always keep our well-being in mind.

You can also listen to this podcast on iono.fm here.

Gold miner results are coming in, and as expected, they’re making bumper profits. I spoke with Pan African Resources CEO Cobus Loots about their numbers as they declared a maiden interim dividend. I also asked about possible hedging with gold at records, but for now, they want to keep full exposure to gold.

You can also listen to this podcast on iono.fm here.