Market Overview

Crypto Surge, Gold Decline: Bitcoin rallies as investors shift from gold to crypto. Gold hit a recent high of $2,800 but is now pulling back, possibly towards $2,300-$2,400. Central banks continue to buy gold as a hedge against U.S. dollar dominance and geopolitical risks.

[caption id="attachment_43623" align="aligncenter" width="849"] Gold | Weekly | 13 November 2024

Rand Weakness: The ZAR weakened above 18 to the dollar, driven by strong U.S. dollar demand amidst market volatility. South African Rand overshoots due to its high liquidity, making it vulnerable to sharp moves.

Trump's Impact on Crypto

Market speculation suggests Trump may be crypto-friendly, unlike the current SEC chair Gary Gensler, known for his strict regulatory stance. Potential shifts in the regulatory landscape could benefit cryptocurrencies, particularly Bitcoin.

Simon holds Bitcoin and advises caution: ensure crypto is stored in a hardware wallet for safety.

Bitcoin | Weekly | 13 November 2024

Local Telco Sector: Vodacom & MTN

Both companies struggle with weakened African currencies like the Ethiopian Birr and Egyptian Pound. Profits are impacted when converted back to ZAR.

Despite attractive dividend yields (MTN ~4%, Vodacom ~5.6%), Simon remains bearish, highlighting high capex demands and sector challenges.

Raubex: Construction Sector Bright Spot

Strong results from Raubex, showing resilience in a struggling sector. Diversification into renewable energy and mining operations boosts performance.

Simon notes it as one of the few quality construction plays left, alongside Afrimat.

Consumer Market Struggles

Updates from AVI and BidCorp indicate persistent weak consumer demand, despite optimism from a possible government of national unity. Inflation has eased, but consumer spending remains subdued as households repair balance sheets.

Retail updates show mixed results: Truworths reported disappointing numbers, while The Foschini Group* performed better.

Tencent Results

Tencent posted strong results, though it did not significantly boost Naspers or Prosus stock prices. The market reaction was muted despite the solid performance.

Final Thoughts

The market remains volatile, with significant moves in crypto, gold, and the Rand. Simon advises a cautious approach, with a focus on quality stocks and long-term plays.

Remember: be kind and look out for others. Kindness is rule number one.

Simon Brown

* I hold ungeared positions.

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00:00 Market Overview: Crypto vs Gold 02:50 The Trump Effect on Gold and Crypto 06:01 The Future of the Rand and Emerging Markets 08:55 Sector Analysis: Vodacom, MTN, and Raubex 16:02 Consumer Trends and Company Updates

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