Windhoek Observer

Staff Writer Alexforbes Namibia has urged investors to rethink traditional strategies as markets become more complex and unpredictable. At its recent Investment Destination Seminar, the firm examined how investors can respond to global market volatility, technological change, geopolitical shifts and rising sustainability demands. These forces are reshaping markets and putting pressure on traditional portfolio models. A key focus of the seminar was the shift from single-manager investing to a multi-management approach. Instead of relying on one manager or one investment style, multi-management combines several specialist asset managers across asset classes, regions and strategies. This structure aims to lower concentration risk,…

Chamwe Kaira Simonis Storm has projected slower economic growth than the 3.1% forecast in the 2026/27 national budget. While the budget estimates growth of 3.1% in 2026, Simonis expects expansion of about 2.5%. Under this outlook, growth would remain concentrated in mining and logistics while domestic demand stays weak. The firm said weaker growth would reduce revenue performance and make deficit reduction more dependent on Southern African Customs Union receipts and global commodity prices. This would narrow the margin for fiscal stability and increase reliance on external factors. Simonis said fiscal consolidation alone will not address structural constraints in the…

Chamwe Kaira Standard Bank Namibia says the success of the 2026/27 national budget will depend on disciplined execution, tight spending control and timely structural reforms. In its technical review of the budget tabled on 26 February by finance minister Ericah Shafudah, the bank said the plan sets out a fiscally responsible but ambitious roadmap. It said results will depend less on projections and more on efficient implementation, stronger institutions and reforms that broaden the revenue base and support investment. The bank said the budget seeks to balance fiscal prudence with growth at a time of weak domestic and global conditions.…

Staff Reporter Instant Payments Namibia has welcomed support from finance minister Ericah Shafudah for the country’s new e-money rapid payment system. During her 2026/27 budget speech in the National Assembly, Shafudah reaffirmed the government's backing for the Instant Payment Solution, Namibia’s first national fast payment platform.  The system aims to modernise payments and expand access to financial services. The Ministry of Finance, the Bank of Namibia and payment service providers have worked on the project since its launch in 2024.  The programme focuses on improving financial inclusion through regulatory measures and a secure instant payment platform. In her budget address,…