Rugby fans will know that putting money on Japan as the winner of this year’s Rugby World Cup is a long shot, at best, but some will still put their money on Japan. Predicting the Rand’s performance against other currencies is just that…a long shot. Some get it right, many do not.
According to Merle Whale, founder of MaltaLifestyle.com, a South African living in Malta for more than 10 years, one of the reasons Malta is an attractive investment for South Africans is its stable economy. Property and investment opportunities are well-priced and attractive for investors to make the move to Malta.
It has been said that when the USA sneezes, the rest of the world catches a cold. This is especially true for the South African economy, which typically follows the interest rate cycles of the American banks. Economists forecast further interest rate hikes in 2023 largely based on a number of factors in South Africa:
- The economy and credit ratings. South Africa’s stagnant economic growth offers a negative outlook, which is a key factor for ratings agencies.
- The cost to the economy is beginning to bite, particularly for small businesses and households, who are being stretched to the limit.
- Never a good sign for any economy.
- Interest rate hikes. Pressure on global interest rates have a significant impact on the trajectory of interest rates in South Africa.
- Exchange rate. The weaker the rand the greater the pressure on interest rates and South African investment opportunities abroad. Offshore investments become expensive.
With the Rand exchange rate currently making global travel unaffordable for many, this year’s Rugby World Cup may just be out of reach for local fans. The cost of a ticket to the Rugby World Cup Final can reach up to EURO 900 for top seats. Costs for lower priced seats are around EURO 200, which when converting to ZAR will cost you more than double(+-R4000) the cost of the seat in the 2007 tournament, when the Springboks claimed their second World Cup title.
Ms Whale says that with Malta still offering favourable investment and travel opportunities, being a 4 to 5 hour flight to France is an attractive option for South Africans living in Malta.
With the Rugby World Cup a matter of a few short months away, turning your eyes to Malta as an investment option may just be the right decision to take capital offshore. The Rand exchange rate should not be a deterrent for long-term investment, the Rand exchange rate is far too volatile for that, not to mention the unstable climate facing South Africans currently.
Consider your offshore investments wisely.
Ms Whale will be embarking on a roadshow in South Africa in May to host sessions on the benefits of an investment in Malta as part of property and investment portfolios for South Africans.
Information sessions are set for Gauteng, Free State, KZN and Northern and Western Cape from 3 to 24 May. Presentations are scheduled from 2pm for 1 hour each. The format is a 45-minute presentation followed by Q&A discussion. Private pre-booked one-to-one sessions are to be reserved.
Booking is essential. Sessions are free on verification and are on a first-come first-served basis. Right of admission reserved.
Contact Merle Whale on WhatsApp +27.825744661 or email events@maltalifestyle.com. Visit www.maltalifestyle.co.za for more information.