Episodi
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Brain health has emerged as one of the defining challenges of our time, driven by a double whammy of soaring rates of neurological conditions such as stroke, dementia, and Parkinson’s disease linked to ageing populations, alongside a rise in mental health issues among young people. To confront this escalating crisis, an initiative called Brain House was launched earlier this year at Davos, Switzerland. The initiative seeks to drive a unified global effort, bringing together stakeholders—from mental health experts to philanthropic and for-profit investors—to prioritise brain health like never before. Leading this movement is George Vradenburg, chairman and co-founder of the Davos Alzheimer’s Collaborative (DAC). Vradenburg told Biznews in an interview that it is crucial to reduce risk factors, build brain resilience, and harness technology and AI to transform brain health outcomes. He emphasised that new technologies, such as AI, have consistently been adapted to extend the capabilities of our brains. “These technologies are powerful stimulants to brain plasticity and to brain health,” he remarked. A Health for Africa programme is set to launch at the G20 summit in South Africa this November.
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Once the pinnacle of European club rugby, the Investec Champions Cup is struggling to maintain its former prestige. In a discussion on the BizNews Rugby Show, analyst Tim Cocker from Eggchasers Rugby sat down with BizNews Rugby insider Rory Steyn and co-host Patrick Kidd to dissect the tournament’s decline. Cocker argues that constant format changes have diluted the competition, making it harder for fans to engage. Meanwhile, teams that barely qualify are making it into the knockout stages, undermining the elite nature of the event.
With South African teams failing to make the Round of 16 despite their success in the URC, questions arise about the tournament’s structure and its ability to deliver top-tier rugby. Could a return to a streamlined, high-stakes qualification system—where only the best truly compete—revive the Cup’s allure? And with sponsors now backing a devalued product, is it time for a radical rethink? -
Episodi mancanti?
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In a compelling keynote at the seventh BizNews Conference (BNC#7), Sean Peche, Founder and CEO of Ranmore Funds, shared his insights on the intricate nature of market cycles. He emphasized the psychological influences that drive investor behavior and the importance of understanding where we stand within these cycles. Peche presented a contrarian view, cautioning against the prevailing optimism in US markets and urging investors to consider diversification and historical patterns in their strategies. With an eye on the future, he outlined key factors that could influence market shifts and highlighted Ranmore Funds' approach to seizing opportunities across the globe.
Following his keynote address, Sean Peche engaged in a dynamic Q&A session with Bronwyn Nielsen, offering sharp insights into global markets, investment strategies, and economic risks. He addressed concerns about asset valuations, inflationary pressures, and the pitfalls of passive investing. With a focus on rational decision-making and value-driven opportunities, Peche provided a compelling case for pragmatic, numbers-driven investing. His candid responses shed light on macroeconomic trends, corporate governance, and the future of wealth preservation in an uncertain world. -
Former Oxford Don RW Johnson provides context on the big news of the past 25 hours, arguing that the DA doesn’t have to leave SA’s Government of National Unity; and the fresh challenge local exporters face - especially car makers - after the US levied a 30% tariff on all SA goods. He spoke to BizNews editor Alec Hogg.
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In this episode of the BizNews Briefing, hosted by Bronwyn Nielsen, Trump’s Liberation Day ignites a fierce global trade war, sending shock waves through markets across the globe. Alec Hogg sits down with Breitbart’s Joel Pollak to unpack the latest developments straight from Washington. Closer to home, South Africa’s political theater takes center stage: DA’s Mark Burke dramatically rips up his speech, Action SA’s Athol Trollip unleashes a scathing attack on the DA, while economists sound the alarm over a faltering GNU and a vulnerable Rand. Meanwhile, ANC heavyweight Fikile Mbalula reaffirms unwavering support for Palestine.
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US Conservative Joel Pollak, the erstwhile frontrunner to become Trump’s man in Pretoria, shares insights on US ‘reciprocal’ Tariffs announced yesterday - among them a 30% duty on South African exports into the world’s biggest market. Pollak explains the White House added both direct duties and indirect charges on US exports to determine the scale of its new tariffs. In SA’s case, the US calculated the effective tariff is 60%, half of which comes from BEE requirements whose legally applied add-on premiums funnel R150bn a year to politically connected elites. Pollak, who is in California, spoke to BizNews editor Alec Hogg this morning.
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At the seventh BizNews Conference (BNC#7), Dr. Yvonne Malan sat down with Alec Hogg to discuss the remarkable life and enduring legacy of Sailor Malan. From his heroic feats as a World War II fighter ace to his fearless opposition to apartheid, Dr. Malan delved into his principles of leadership, moral courage, and the impact of his activism. This conversation shed light on a man who not only defended the skies but also fought for justice on the ground.
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After nearly 40 years in the ANC, Banele Majingo has made the surprising move to the Democratic Alliance. In this candid conversation with Alec Hogg, Majingo unpacks the values, frustrations, and service delivery realities that led to his decision. It’s not a story of betrayal—but one of principle, purpose, and the evolving priorities of South African politics.
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At the seventh BizNews Conference (BNC#7) in Hermanus, renowned Zimbabwean entrepreneur and media leader Trevor Ncube delivered an inspiring keynote on the challenges and opportunities facing Africa. Drawing from his personal journey and deep insights, he spoke on leadership, ethical business practices, and the resilience needed to navigate uncertain times. His address emphasized the need for integrity, bold decision-making, and a renewed commitment to African progress.
Following his keynote address, Trevor Ncube engaged in a dynamic Q&A session with BizNews founder Alec Hogg, offering candid insights into leadership, media freedom, and Africa’s economic future. He tackled pressing issues such as business ethics, political accountability, and the role of journalism in shaping public discourse. The conversation touched on personal experiences, industry challenges, and the evolving landscape of African entrepreneurship. Ncube’s reflections provided a thought-provoking conclusion, emphasizing resilience, innovation, and the need for courageous leadership in uncertain times. -
Economist Dawie Roodt discusses South Africa's worsening fiscal crisis, emphasising the country’s unsustainable debt levels, which now hover around 95% of GDP. He explains the ANC's failure to cut spending and its reliance on tax hikes, particularly a VAT increase, as the only way to generate revenue. Roodt warns that this approach risks deepening inequality and triggering social unrest. He also highlights South Africa’s vulnerability to external financial pressures, particularly a potential bond market crisis. Roodt urges urgent fiscal reform and strong political leadership to avoid a catastrophic economic collapse and safeguard the country’s future.
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In this episode of the BizNews Briefing we look at two sides of the collapsing Government of National Unity - ActionSA’s Athol Trollip on why his party threw the ANC Budget a lifeline and economist Dawie Roodt explains why the DA must hold firm against the proposed VAT increase. We speak to the ‘historic’ switch to the DA by the ANC Leader in Cape Town; Insights from the Fort Hare lawyers/investigators yesterday targeted for more State-applied abuse; Trump Tariff Day in the US; and Marine le Pen’s shock ejection from the French Presidential where she was a shoo-in.
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ActionSA last night put a spanner into South Africa's Government of National Unity works by breaking the impasse over the ANC proposed National Budget. The party's Parliamentary leader Athol Trollip spoke to BizNews this morning ahead of an early morning flight from Johannesburg.
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At the seventh BizNews Conference (BNC#7), Rory Steyn, former bodyguard to Nelson Mandela and global security expert, shared behind-the-scenes insights into safeguarding a world leader, the evolution of security, and the intersection of sports and leadership. In an engaging discussion with BizNews founder Alec Hogg, Steyn revealed gripping stories from his time with Mandela, reflected on modern security challenges, and explored the powerful lessons sports can teach about leadership and resilience.
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Early this morning, dozens of uniformed police were sent to the homes of attorneys Bradley Conradie and Sarah Burger to freeze their assets, including bank accounts and credit cards. The dup have uncovered deeply embedded fraud at Fort Hare University. Apart from the theft of millions in university funds, they exposed academic fraud by many politicians who “bought” qualifications from Fort Hare, among them 51 year old Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane who paid a professor to award him a Masters degree and a Doctorate. Despite the ratcheting up of State-sponsored intimidation - which has included half a dozen court appearances and an Easter weekend incarceration - the attorneys have refused to bend. They spoke to BizNews editor Alec Hogg about how the political crooks doubled down today.
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In just three and a half years Rob Hersov has transitioned from a low profile global entrepreneur into outspoken capital activist - and now, budding media mogul. He shares his media plans with BizNews editor Alec Hogg, explaining how he intends creating a coalition of SA’s conservative thinkers, giving them a louder voice. Hersov believes this will inform the nation that there’s an alternative to continuous economic decline.
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In this episode of the BizNews Briefing DA finance spokesman Mark Burke explains why the party isn’t budging on the ANC’s proposed 0.5% rise in VAT; Rob Hersov rips into corrupt politicians and whether the scales are finally falling from South African eyes; Reform insider and West of England mayoral candidate Arron Banks provides unique insights on the White House’s plans for Africa; Donald Trump hosts Kid Rock, smashes long-time concert ticket abuse; and RIP sporting surgical superstar Dr Willem vd Merwe.
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This morning the DA cancelled a scheduled press conference where leader John Steenhuisen was due to share progress in the discussions over the Budget within the Government of National Unity. Social media is ride with ‘insiders’ sayong the DA has agreed to the 0.5% VAT agreement in return for concessions in other areas - despite Dr Frans Cronje explaining to us last week why the DA cannot afford to endorse any tax increases.......Mark Burke is the DA’s spokesman on Finance. He spoke to BizNews editor Alec Hogg.
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At the seventh BizNews Conference, Ann Bernstein, CEO of the Centre for Development and Enterprise, sat down with Bronwyn Nielsen to dissect the complexities of South Africa’s Government of National Unity (GNU). Reflecting on its rocky start, Bernstein critiqued the ANC’s resistance to change and the DA’s struggle to drive reform. She outlined bold priorities—slashing the cabinet, empowering the private sector, and tackling corruption—while urging business and society to pressure the GNU into delivering tangible growth. With sharp insights on state weakness and electoral dynamics, Bernstein warned that without action, South Africa risks sliding further into crisis.
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At BNC#7, BizNews founder Alec Hogg sat down with Tatjana Smith, South Africa’s most decorated Olympian, for a heartfelt nightcap chat in Hermanus. Fresh from her record-breaking triumphs at the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics, Tatjana shared her journey from reluctant swimmer to global champion. Reflecting on faith, resilience, and the power of staying home, she highlighted the untapped potential in South African swimming, the need for better support, and her mission to inspire the next generation—leaving the audience with goosebumps and hope.
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At BNC#7 in Hermanus, the UK's largest-ever political funder (of Brexit), Arron Banks, delivered a hard-hitting keynote on political disruption. He criticised South Africa’s political status quo, argued that a reform movement could upend the ANC and DA, and highlighted Trump’s unorthodox but effective leadership style. Banks also explored the geopolitical chess game between the US, China, and Russia, predicting a major shift in Africa’s global influence. With topics ranging from economic nationalism to artificial intelligence, his speech painted a picture of a world in rapid transformation.
Following his keynote speech, Arron Banks engaged in a candid Q&A session with BizNews founder Alec Hogg, addressing a range of topics with his characteristic directness. The discussion touched on the evolving political landscape, the role of media, and the impact of Brexit, while also delving into business, governance, and international relations. Banks provided insights into key challenges facing the UK and offered his perspective on navigating political and economic uncertainty. - Mostra di più
