10 September 2025
The annual Glacier Investment Summit Mpumalanga & Limpopo 2025 took place at the breathtakingly beautiful Highlands Gate Golf Estate on 4 & 5 September.
With the theme “The power of resilience: How to future-proof your investment practice,” it explored how advisers can future-proof their investment practices, embrace innovation, and deliver long-term value to their clients.
The future of SA politics and the economy
Dr Piet Croucamp | Political Analyst & Senior Lecturer | North-West University
South Africa’s political and economic future remains finely balanced, as explored by political analyst Dr Piet Croucamp. He unpacked the shifting dynamics of the Government of National Unity, the role of coalition politics, and what these mean for stability and policy certainty. On the economic front, Dr Croucamp highlighted how governance reforms, improved energy and logistics management, and investor confidence could unlock growth potential. The conversation underscored that South Africa’s path forward hinges on pragmatic leadership, collaboration, and restoring trust in institutions.
Hedge funds decoded: Strategies, risk and real market impact
Erik Nel | CIO and Portfolio Manager | Terebinth Capital
Hedge funds often spark intrigue and misunderstanding. In this discussion, Erik Nel unpacked how hedge funds operate, the strategies they employ, and their influence on global markets. Beyond the numbers, hedge funds shape price discovery, market efficiency, and even investor sentiment. The key takeaway? Hedge funds are not just high-risk vehicles for the few, they are powerful market participants whose impact extends well beyond their client base. View presentation
Fusion finance: Blending investment philosophies for modern portfolios
Moderated by: Tebogo Moopa | Portfolio Manager | Sanlam Investments Multi-Manager
Edo Bräsecke | Methodical Investment Management | Momentum
Rod Hunter | Investment Director | Ninety One
Murray Winckler | Laurium Co–Founder & Portfolio Manager | Laurium Capital
In today’s complex markets, investors are moving beyond single-style strategies toward “fusion finance”, an approach that blends different investment philosophies to create more resilient portfolios. This discussion explored how combining active and passive investing, growth and value styles, or traditional and alternative can unlock new opportunities while managing risk. Fusion finance is not about chasing trends, it’s about balance, adaptability, and diversification in a world where no one strategy consistently dominates.
The global equation: Balancing risk and opportunity
Moderated by: Dean de Nysschen | Portfolio Manager | Sanlam Multi-Manager International
Shriya Roy | Quantitative Analyst | Prescient Investment Management
Laura Bottega | Chief Operating Officer and Head of Client Experience | Ashburton Investments
Henk Groenewald | Investment Analyst | Coronation Fund Managers
Global markets are defined by constant tension between risk and opportunity. In this dynamic panel moderated by Dean de Nysschen, leading voices from the investment industry shared their insights on navigating uncertainty. The panellists unpacked how investors can position portfolios to manage volatility, capture growth, and diversify globally. From currency swings to shifting interest rates and geopolitical shifts, the panel highlighted that disciplined strategies and clear long-term thinking are essential. The discussion reinforced that success lies in balancing caution with conviction in an evolving global investment landscape.
Trust without borders: Local vs. offshore in wealth planning
Christine Bornman | Fiduciary & and tax specialist | Sanlam Private Wealth
Wealth planning today is increasingly global, yet deeply personal. In this session, Christine Bornman explored how investors can strike the right balance between local and offshore structures. She unpacked the benefits and complexities of offshore trusts, including diversification, tax considerations, and succession planning, while contrasting them with the familiarity and accessibility of local solutions. The key insight: effective wealth planning isn’t about choosing one over the other but about tailoring a strategy that blends both to meet unique family, business, and goals. Trusts, when structured well, can truly transcend borders.
A value proposition as an enabler of TCF
Rocco Carr | Business Development Manager | Glacier by Sanlam
Treating Customers Fairly (TCF) is more than a regulatory requirement, it’s a philosophy that should shape every client interaction. In this session, Rocco Carr highlighted how a clear, client-centric value proposition enables advisers to live out TCF in practice. By aligning advice and product offerings with real client needs, advisers build trust, demonstrate transparency, and deliver measurable value. The discussion reinforced that when clients understand the benefits, costs, and outcomes of financial solutions, fairness naturally follows. A well-articulated value proposition is not just good business it’s the foundation of ethical, sustainable client relationships. View presentation
“The invisible analyst”: How AI has quietly entered every investment room
Moderated by: Shawn Phillips | Portfolio Manager | Sanlam Investments Multi-Manager
Pierre-Jean Prinsloo | Senior Analyst | Centaur Asset Management
Michael-John | Multi-Strategy Analyst | Fairtree | View presentation
Pierre Mc Donald | Account Executive | Satrix
Artificial intelligence is reshaping investment decisions behind the scenes. In this panel moderated by Shawn Phillips, industry experts explored how AI is becoming the “invisible analyst” in modern investment processes. From data-driven insights and risk analytics to portfolio optimisation and predictive modelling, AI tools are enhancing human decision-making rather than replacing it. The discussion highlighted the importance of balancing technology with expertise, ensuring ethical use, and understanding limitations. Investors and advisers who embrace AI strategically can gain a competitive edge while maintaining disciplined, informed investment practices.
Strength in consistency: Evolving the income playbook
Moderated by: Dean de Nysschen | Portfolio Manager | Sanlam Multi-Manager International
Dirk Jooste | Fund Manager | PSG Asset Management | View presentation
Jean-Pierre Matthews | Head of Product | Matrix Fund Managers
Philip Bradford | Head of Investments | PortfolioMetrix
Delivering reliable income in an evolving market requires discipline, insight, and adaptability. In this panel moderated by Dean de Nysschen the panellists discussed how investors can modernise the income playbook. The conversation explored strategies to balance yield, risk, and capital preservation amid shifting interest rates and market volatility. They emphasised the importance of diversification, active monitoring, and leveraging both traditional and alternative income sources. The key takeaway: consistent, well-structured income strategies remain a cornerstone of portfolio resilience, providing stability and confidence in uncertain markets.
It is not what you earn, it is what you keep: The power of post-Tax returns
Steph le Roux | Chief Investment Officer | SA Asset Management
Investment success isn’t measured by gross returns, it’s about what remains after tax. In this session, Steph le Roux highlighted the critical role of post-tax returns in wealth building and portfolio optimisation. He explored strategies to minimise tax leakage, from asset location and tax-efficient products to timing and structuring of investments. The discussion reinforced that a higher pre-tax return doesn’t always translate into greater wealth. By focusing on what investors truly keep, advisers can create smarter, more effective strategies that protect capital, maximise compounding, and deliver meaningful long-term outcomes. View presentation
DAY 2
Managing drawdowns when clients can’t afford to lose
Moderated by: Shawn Phillips | Portfolio Manager | Sanlam Investments Multi-Manager
Catherine Blersch | Investment Analyst | Granate Asset Management
Corinne Cordier | Fixed Income Analyst | Visio Fund Management
Ryan de Kock | Portfolio Manager | Bateleur Capital
Managing investment risk is critical when clients have low tolerance for losses. In this panel, moderated by Shawn Phillips, the discussion highlighted the importance of defensive positioning, diversification, and active risk management to limit drawdowns. Panellists emphasised balancing growth objectives with capital preservation, tailoring solutions to client needs, and communicating clearly during turbulent markets. The key takeaway: disciplined risk management is essential for client confidence and long-term wealth protection.
Before you write the cheque: Questions that separate smart investors from the rest
Jaco Brand | National Sales Manager | Glacier Invest
Investing wisely starts with asking the right questions. In this session, Jaco Brand highlighted how smart investors differentiate themselves by critically evaluating opportunities before committing capital. Key considerations include understanding the investment’s strategy, risk profile, fees, liquidity, and alignment with long-term goals. He emphasised the importance of due diligence, challenging assumptions, and avoiding decisions driven by trends or emotion. The discussion underscored that disciplined questioning not only mitigates risk but also uncovers true value, enabling investors to make informed choices that support sustainable growth and long-term financial success.
Endowments in practice: Tax efficient tools for estate planning and building
llza Lötter | Business Development Manager | Glacier by Sanlam
Endowments can be a powerful, tax-efficient solution for estate planning and leaving a lasting . In this session, Ilza Lotter explored how endowment structures allow investors to grow wealth while optimising tax outcomes and simplifying succession planning. She highlighted the benefits of combining investment growth, tax efficiency, and flexible beneficiary options. The discussion emphasised that well-structured endowments not only preserve capital but also provide a strategic way to achieve long-term financial goals and meaningful legacies, making them a vital tool for advisers and investors focused on wealth preservation. View presentation
The Public Sector advantage: Trends, needs, and emerging opportunities
Dinash Pillay | Business Development Manager | Glacier by Sanlam
The public sector presents unique investment and wealth planning opportunities, shaped by its specific trends and needs. In this session, Dinash Pillay explored how advisers can tailor strategies for public sector clients, balancing stability, growth, and long-term planning. He highlighted emerging opportunities in retirement planning, employee benefits, and risk management, while emphasising the importance of understanding regulatory and institutional frameworks. The discussion reinforced that a client-centric approach, informed by sector-specific insights, allows advisers to deliver meaningful value, create customised solutions, and help public sector clients achieve financial security and sustainable outcomes. View presentation
Strengthen your practice: Why international investing is key to client’s success and retention
Chris Labuschagne | International Account Manager | Glacier International
International investing is no longer optional, it’s central to building resilient portfolios and long-term client relationships. In this session, Chris Labuschagne explored how advisers can leverage offshore opportunities to diversify risk, enhance returns, and meet evolving client needs. He highlighted that clients who benefit from global exposure are more likely to see consistent performance and value from their advisers, boosting satisfaction and retention. The discussion reinforced that integrating international strategies strengthens both portfolios and the adviser-client relationship, positioning advisers as trusted partners in achieving sustainable, long-term financial goals. View presentation
Keynote address
Stafford Masie | Digital Innovation and Disruption Thought Leader
In his keynote address, Stafford Masie delivered a compelling perspective on innovation and the evolving business landscape in South Africa. He explored the importance of adaptability and forward-thinking strategies in driving organisational success and societal impact. Masie highlighted how technology, entrepreneurship, and collaboration are reshaping industries, emphasising the need for leaders to embrace change while staying grounded in purpose and values. The address inspired audiences to think strategically, act decisively, and lead with both vision and integrity, reinforcing that sustainable growth and meaningful impact stem from bold ideas coupled with responsible execution.
