The Latest South Africa Business News: 5 Companies to Watch in 2021

Introduction:

South Africa’s economy is set to recover in 2021, and investors are on the lookout for companies that are poised to take advantage of this growth. This article will highlight five companies that have the potential to be game-changers in their respective industries. From agriculture to technology, these companies are worth watching in 2021.

Agriculture – The Omnia Group

The Omnia Group is a diversified agriculture company that specializes in crop nutrients, mining, and chemicals. The company has a presence in South Africa, Australia, and North America. In 2020, the company’s revenue grew by 7.3% to R18.29 billion ($1.24 billion). The Omnia Group is well-positioned to benefit from the expected growth in agricultural output in South Africa, thanks to the industry’s adoption of modern farming practices.

Technology – EOH Holdings

EOH Holdings is a technology company that specializes in enterprise applications, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. The company has undergone a restructuring process that has seen it reduce its exposure to non-core businesses and focus on high-margin sectors. In 2020, the company’s revenue fell by 10% to R10.75 billion ($733 million), but the company is expected to rebound in 2021 as its restructuring begins to bear fruit.

Retail – Truworths International

Truworths International is a fashion retailer that has a presence in South Africa and the UK. The company has over 759 stores and a market capitalization of R11.1 billion ($757 million). The company has been expanding its product range to include more casual wear and athleisure, which has helped it weather the COVID-19 pandemic. The company’s revenue fell by 5.1% to R10.1 billion ($690 million) in 2020, but the company is expected to rebound as consumer spending recovers.

Financial Services – Standard Bank Group

Standard Bank Group is a financial services company that is headquartered in Johannesburg. The company has operations in 20 countries, including South Africa, Nigeria, and other African countries. Standard Bank Group has a market capitalization of R151.5 billion ($10.3 billion) and is well-capitalized to withstand the impact of the pandemic. In 2020, the company’s revenue grew by 4% to R84.3 billion ($5.75 billion).

Energy – Sasol

Sasol is an energy and chemical company that is based in South Africa. The company specializes in the production of synthetic fuels, chemicals, and fertilizers. Sasol has undergone a restructuring process that has seen it reduce debt and focus on high-margin businesses. In 2020, the company’s revenue fell by 27% to R160.5 billion ($10.94 billion) due to the pandemic’s impact. Sasol’s recovery in 2021 will depend on the global oil price, which is slowly rebounding after a record slump.

Conclusion

The five companies mentioned in this article have the potential to be market leaders in their respective industries. Omnia Group is expected to benefit from the growth in agriculture, while EOH Holdings is set to rebound after its restructuring process. Truworths International is well-positioned to benefit from the recovering consumer spending, while Standard Bank Group is financially sound to withstand the pandemic. Sasol is expected to rebound as the global oil price recovers. Investors looking to capitalize on South Africa’s recovery in 2021 should keep an eye on these companies.