Investor communications and marketing professionals in South Africa are navigating a rapidly evolving landscape where B2B marketing trends are reshaping how companies engage with stakeholders. From the growing role of digital channels to heightened expectations around transparency and trust, Investor Communications in South Africa is no longer just about reporting numbers – it’s about building strong, credible relationships that support long-term growth. For marketing professionals focused on B2B strategies, staying ahead of these trends is key to ensuring effective stakeholder communication and maintaining a competitive edge in today’s market.
For us to be able to give informed advice to our clients and stakeholders, it is critical that we are constantly looking at the latest trends and industry developments. Each month we look to analyse qualitative and quantitative data to help our teams make the right decisions.
What is our website and Google Search trends data telling us?
We analyse our website and Google search data on a daily basis to give us a sense of what are the burning topics our clients, potential clients and other stakeholders are searching for.
Based on our search data in August, these are the most highest volume search phrases for our site:
- Impact Reporting / Impact Report
- Fabricio Bloisi
- IR Communications Solutions
- Altvest Capital CEO
In terms of Impact Reporting, we are seeing a steady increase in the number of organisations who wish to invest in tools to showcase their contributions to society.
The “Fabricio Bloisi” search phrase could be linked to the finalisation of recent corporate action around Prosus. One of our recent blogs also recently showcased the work that Fabricio Bloisi is doing and some of his skills when it comes to stakeholder engagement.
In terms of the search phrase “Altvest Capital CEO” – we have featured Warren Wheatley in a couple of interviews. Most recently we spoke to Warren around whether Altvest had the ability to execute on its strategy. Altvest was also recently featured on the Finance Ghost podcast, where he was challenged on a number of issues which have been raised in the media.
Investigative journalism in South Africa is alive and well
As a PR and communications agency, we are very cognizant of the challenges faced by South African newsrooms – particularly when it comes to resourcing and staffing.
Despite these challenges, there are pockets of excellence when it comes to investigative journalism.
Most notably in August:
- Sikonathi Mantshantsha writing for Fin24 has uncovered a questionable Billion Rand lease entered into by the Gauteng Pensions Administration Agency
- South African readers have been enthralled by the Daily Maverick coverage of the IDT saga spear-headed by Pieter-Louis Myburgh
Newsday launches
Despite the challenging operating environment, it is always good to see new players in the South African market – particularly those launched by young industry talent. Seth Thorne, Daniel Puchert and Kimberley Kersten are the team behind the recently launched Newsday.
If they are not already part of your daily media schedule, then go and check them out.
A blow to early-stage venture capital in South Africa
The South African and African venture capital sector has been dealt a blow as the Mastercard Foundation attempts to wind-up a long-standing African partner.
The Mastercard Foundation is one of the largest philanthropic organisations in the world and had entered into a funding agreement with Africa Founders Ventures / Founders Factory Africa (which subsequently re-branded to 54 Collective).
The intention had been to fund early-stage SMEs with much-needed capital.
According to media reports, the foundation had transferred approximately R700m to AVF but took issue with funds being utilized for the rebranding to 54 Collective. The TechCabal team gives a good summary of the events in this article.
The Economist questions B-BBEE in South Africa
Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEEE) policies have come under scrutiny in South Africa – particularly with South Africa and the US looking to re-set trade relationships.
The Economist one of the most influential global media brands and they have recently run an article entitled: “Why South Africa should scrap Black Economic Empowerment”
With over 13 million LinkedIn followers and significant reach across its print and digital channels, this will put the subject of B-BBEE front-and-centre for international investors looking at South Africa.
Robust financial results from the JSE
On 5 August 2025, the JSE released its interim results for the first 6 months of the financial year. These are of interest to us as they provide insights into the state of investor confidence
Highlights from the period included:
- Primary Market: +8% to R94 million
- Equity Trading: +28% to R272 million
- Colocation Fees: +9% to R26 million
- Equity Derivatives Trading: +5% to R61 million
- Bonds: +9% to R50 million
- Financial derivatives: +21% to R29 million
- Commodity Derivatives Trading: -11% to R41 million
We are particularly passionate about the JSE “ClaimIt” initiative which aims to help investors claim shares they may not realise they own. This includes access to the associated dividends which could be life-changing for these people.
A powerful statistic from the JSE release: “The JSE Claim It initiative continues to scale. Since launch in March 2025, nearly 65 000 individuals have come forward to check their dividend eligibility status with close to 8 200 people matched as having dividends due to them. “
You can watch the full JSE results presentation below:
Looking for an Investor Relations or PR partner in 2025?
If you are looking for a Gauteng-based agency to assist you in crafting a communications strategy for your organisation, then we would love to work with you.
Our team includes experienced copywriters, editors, project managers and designers who have worked with a variety of professionals including banking executives, asset managers, lawyers and other professional services firms.
From thought leadership pieces appearing in tier 1 media across South Africa to Impact Reports showcasing positive contributions to communities, our team are on hand to work with you.
Please do not hesitate to contact us to setup a meeting.