As the world grapples with the urgent need to address climate change, David Buckham, CEO of Monocle, sat down with Michael Avery to discuss COP29 and the contradictions and hypocrisies within the climate change discourse. David highlighted South Africa's unique challenges, including heavy reliance on coal and limited access to climate finance. He emphasised the need for strategic policy decisions, private sector innovation and an equitable approach from developed countries to drive sustainable solutions.

With the world's eyes on COP29, Michael Avery sat down with Andrew Gilder, Director of Climate Legal, to unpack the intricacies of the ongoing climate summit. They explored the realistic expectations for this year's conference, the complexities of Article 6, and the potential global impact of a US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement under Trump's presidency.

To understand how Capitec is reshaping the financial landscape for South African entrepreneurs, Michael Avery sat down with Karl Kumbier, Executive of Business Banking at Capitec. Karl highlighted how Capitec is transforming business banking through its focus on simplicity, affordability, and its unique, fintech-like approach to providing integrated financial services to untapped emerging markets.

AI adoption in Africa is crucial, and with it comes the importance of establishing a unique African AI identity. Dr. Mark Nasila, Chief Data and Analytics Officer at FNB Risk and acclaimed author of African Artificial Intelligence, joined Michael Avery to share his expertise on this topic.

They explored the current state of AI, especially in South Africa, the key industries it’s reshaping, as well as the potential benefits and risks associated with AI implementation particularly within the realm of traditional banking.

To shed light on the entrepreneurial opportunities that emerge from the shadows of industry giants, Michael Avery was joined by TJ Strydom, author of Capitec: Stalking Giants. Together, they explore how Capitec, a small start-up from Stellenbosch, has transformed into one of South Africa's most remarkable success stories.

TJ shared his perspectives on Capitec’s innovative strategies, commitment to customer centricity, and the cultural shifts that have fuelled its growth, along with insights into what the future may hold for the bank.

To explore the future of infrastructure investment in South Africa, Michael Avery sat down with two industry leaders: Prudence Mogolola, Investment Officer at the IDC, and Ashley Daswa, Senior Investment Specialist at Sanlam Corporate Investments. They examined the gaps and opportunities associated with accelerating infrastructure development, the significance of impact investing, and the vital collaboration needed between the public and private sectors to drive sustainable growth.

Having recently expanded Monocle Tech, Mark Beringer, our Head of Technology at Monocle, sat down with Michael Avery to discuss this exciting new venture. Mark shared insights into the latest trends and emerging gaps that are reshaping how banks operate and innovate their products and services. He also explored the current data landscape and the digital maturity of banks in South Africa, as well as the technical skills essential for success in this rapidly changing environment.

Michael Avery sat down with Dr Eric Levenstein, Director and Head of the Insolvency, Business Rescue & Restructuring Department at Werksmans Attorneys, where they explored the successes and challenges of Business Rescue in South Africa.

Eric shared his expertise on the current attitudes of financial institutions towards Business Rescue, the ethical and legal complexities and the importance of being able to protect companies in an economy like South Africa.