The world of financial services PR and B2B communications is rapidly evolving with leadership teams having to analyse their investments in Earned, Owned and Bought media.
As a leading provider of financial PR in South Africa, it is critical that we stay on top of the current trends. We do this by analysing a combination of quantitative and qualitative data points to help us make informed decisions.
Here are some of the trends which caught our eye in May 2025.
Analysis of our Google data
Based on our analysis of our Google trends data, the following keywords or search phrases have been popular over the last month:
- Public Relations Trends for Asset Managers
- Public Relations Trends for investment managers
- Public Relations Trends for Fund Managers
- Investor Communication Services
- ChatGPT and Public Relations
- Alt Capital Partners
Relative to previous months, there has been an increase in the number of searches related to “PR trends for Asset Managers / Investment Managers / Fund Managers” but these are niche searches and no conclusive trends can be ascertained from them.
Sasol and Cell C engage shareholders
Two high-profile JSE-listed businesses that have been under significant scrutiny conducted shareholder engagement events in May.
The first is Sasol which conducted a Capital Markets Day where it outlined its strategy going forward. The event was well received and the Sasol share price responded positively. Sasol was up 28% over the last 30 days (as at 27 May 2025)
The second company was Blue Label Telecoms which is the owner of mobile network operator Cell C. Blue Label is up 88% year to date and the market has responded positively to a proposal to list Cell C separately.
JSE continues to gain traction with inbound listings
As part of its “fast-track” listing process, the JSE has attracted junior mining group Shuka Minerals to take a secondary listing on the domestic bourse.
European energy group Greencoat Renewables has also sought to list on the JSE in June, providing investors with the opportunity to invest in clean energy infrastructure projects.
This follows the announcement at the end of April that ASP Isotopes will inwardly list later in the year. ASP Isotopes subsequently announced a proposed scheme of arrangement with dual-listed Renergen.
We are encouraged by the JSE looking for ways to revitalise the domestic market and provide investors with a broader range of investment opportunities.
Join us for our: “State of Business Newsrooms” event on 4 June
The South African business media landscape is constantly evolving and business media newsrooms are having to adapt to a changing environment. These developments are particularly relevant if you are involved in Corporate or Investor Communications, Regulatory Affairs or Stakeholder engagement.
On 4 June 2025, our team will be hosting a number of South Africa’s leading financial journalists from a variety of publications including:
The event will take place at the Bryanston Country Club and will include networking drinks afterwards.
If you would like to join us, book your tickets on Quicket today using this link.
Prosus and Naspers CEO sets the tone
Fabricio Bloisi – CEO of Naspers and Prosus – has been our CEO in focus in May 2025 as he has demonstrated a unique set of communication skills when engaging shareholders.
Our CEO Marc Ashton prepared a write up highlighting where he thought Bloisi excelled.
Connect with us on these trends and more
As an industry thought-leader in the fields of B2B Communication and Marketing as well as Investor Communications services, we love connecting with peers and like-minded businesses.
If you would like to connect with us, please do not hesitate to contact us.