Stock Watch - 27 Sept 2023 | The Close - Summary

Summary

The discussion revolves around the current state of the stock market, particularly in the U.S and South Africa, and the potential opportunities or risks it presents. The panelists, David Shapiro from Sasson Securities and Dwayne McCurry from FNB Wealth and Investments, discuss the impact of global events such as the standoff between the Congress and Senate in the U.S over the debt ceiling, and the potential for interest rate cuts. They also touch on the role of commodity prices, specifically gold and platinum, in the current market environment.

The panelists agree that bad news often peaks just before the market turns, and that the market is currently in a state of chaos, which can be a buying opportunity. However, they caution that this is a cyclical market, and the movements are incredibly volatile. They also discuss the importance of long-term thinking and the potential for the market to recover when interest rates are cut.

The panelists also discuss the performance of specific companies, such as Avi and Tiger Brands, in an environment that they describe as very tough. They agree that the market for these brands is under pressure due to interest rate hikes and the shift towards home brands. However, they believe that the brand loyalty of consumers could provide a buffer against this pressure.

The panelists also discuss the potential of City Lodge, a company involved in the hospitality industry, which they believe could benefit from the growth in inbound and domestic tourism in South Africa. They suggest that the market may be getting this one wrong and that the company could be a good value investment.

Finally, the panelists discuss the potential of Rim Grow, a company involved in a variety of investments. They agree that the company has been a good performer and that it could be a good entry point at its current price. However, they also caution that the market for these investments is not listed, making it harder for investors to assess their value.

Facts

1. The conversation is between David Shapiro and Wayne McCurry, two experts in the stock market.
2. The discussion revolves around the current state of the global markets, particularly the U.S markets.
3. The markets are described as "Grim", with a negative outlook for the year on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE).
4. The main reasons for the market's decline are fears of slower interest rate cuts and a standoff between the Congress and Senate in the U.S over the debt ceiling.
5. The strengthening dollar index and rising interest rates are causing a weakening of resource stocks.
6. The speakers discuss the historical performance of the market, noting that it often performs well in low and falling interest rate environments.
7. They also discuss the potential impact of the Federal Reserve's interest rate decisions on the market.
8. The conversation includes a discussion about the value of Avi and Tiger Brands at current market levels, with the panel expressing differing opinions.
9. The speakers also discuss City Lodge's latest results and the potential future performance of the company.
10. The conversation includes a question about RSA savings bonds and how they compare in terms of fixed and inflation-adjusted rates.
11. The speakers also discuss the potential investment in uranium shares, with David expressing caution and Wayne agreeing with him.
12. There is also a question about Remgro, with the panel discussing its performance and potential value as an investment.