Clear market notes built around the JSE, the rand, and what matters locally.

2026-10-03 14:23 • The Motley Fool Positive Axe Cap view: Selective

The Federal Reserve raised interest rates by 25 basis points to 3.75%-4%, marking the start of a new tightening cycle. While rate hikes historically trigger initial stock market pulldowns, historical data shows the S&P 500 averaged 6.7% returns in the 12 months following initial rate hikes. The current cycle is expected to be mild compared to 2022, with the AI supercycle and post-midterm election period potentially supporting market performance. Investors are advised to stick to dollar-cost averaging strategies rather than attempting market timing.

Axe note: Fed rate hikes often rattle markets but local opportunities still emerge; careful selection is key.

2026-10-03 14:14 • The Motley Fool Positive Axe Cap view: Selective

The Vanguard Morningstar Growth ETF (VUG) is highlighted as a solid long-term investment vehicle for building wealth through consistent monthly contributions. With historical average annual returns of 12.3% (including reinvested dividends), investing $500 monthly could potentially grow to approximately $800,000 over 25 years, demonstrating the power of compound returns and time in the market.

Axe note: Strong US tech returns don’t automatically translate into a winning Rand-based strategy.

2026-10-03 13:25 • The Motley Fool Positive Axe Cap view: Selective

PepsiCo, a Dividend King with 54 consecutive years of dividend increases, offers a 4.66% yield—more than four times the S&P 500 average of ~1%. The company is positioned for growth through margin expansion initiatives, international performance improvements, and volume growth in food and beverages. With stock down 34% from its high, management expects to moderate capital spending and benefit from tax payment rolloffs in 2027, supporting future dividend growth.

Axe note: PepsiCo offers rare dividend reliability and solid growth potential at a compelling valuation—worth watching even from the JSE.