Editor's Thoughts.

The content at the Batseta Winter Conference has been hot as – big picture enough to stretch thinking, but rooted in the real questions trustees and funds are wrestling with. And what a privilege to hear Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana speak so candidly about the future of our retirement and investment industry, and his challenge for us to partner with government in building the country. I’ve captured my goosebump moments in a full write-up under Top Picks.

The conversations at Batseta pair perfectly with today’s content. Alan Wood’s (Simeka Consultants and Actuaries) May market and performance snapshot shows that return opportunities are still very much alive, even as rates, inflation and growth worries keep everyone on edge.

Alongside listed markets, there’s a real chance to earn decorrelated, real returns while helping build South Africa. Today’s episode of Inside Private Markets looks at how retirement funds can blend listed assets with carefully chosen private market managers in balanced portfolios, turning illiquidity into a deliberate long-term tool. In his article, Leon unpacks what robust due diligence on private markets actually looks like – and why those zig‑when‑others‑zag returns can be so powerful for members.

But Batseta isn’t just about private markets. What about emerging managers? Are funds leaving returns on the table by staying fixated on the biggest houses? My longer article picks this up, and Motswedi’s “David vs Goliath” research on our Publication Podium pushes us to ask whether our default to the giants really serves members – or whether high quality boutiques deserve more room in the portfolio.

Against the backdrop of Batseta’s “Power of One Degree” theme, the mood is clear: if we’re this intentional about where every rand of pension capital goes, small shifts today could genuinely change members’ futures.

Upcoming Events.

Most Recent Reads.

Quick Links.