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Could long-term trends around interest rate differentials bring a stronger currency our way? Find out in this episode of our Coffee Break Commerce podcast.

African corporate treasurers and bank liquidity managers know all too well the delicate and daily balancing act of managing cash in an unpredictable environment. One day the local currency is sliding, the next day a cross-border payment is in transit.

The newest blockchain activity across Africa is highlighting the dynamism of this technology, with use cases emerging that demonstrate exciting new developmental opportunities beyond its crypto transaction roots. As South Africa prepares to host the first G20 summit in Africa, a key theme set to be discussed throughout both the B20 (Business20) and G20 task teams is inclusive digital development.

Jessica Gounden, Head of Trade and Working Capital Operations (Pan Africa) at Absa CIB, examines how Absa’s digitisation strategy is transforming trade in Africa by embedding automation, control and AI-driven risk management into its operations, while placing the client at the heart of this transformation

Gerald Katsenga, Head of Global Markets Corporate Sales at Absa Regional Operations, offers a foreign exchange response to US tariffs and global trade wars.

Africa is leading a global digital payments revolution as the continent continues its transition from an historic dependency on cash-based transactions towards a future characterised by digital payments. This growth is being driven by the need for instant, real-time, seamless experiences like enhanced cross-border transactions, contactless payments and digital wallets.

Blockchain is no longer on the periphery, it’s powering real-world solutions and unlocking growth across Africa. From enabling inclusive access to capital for startups to strengthening the resilience of our energy infrastructure, blockchain technology is helping to reshape the continent’s economic future on its own terms.

The collaboration between us and Absolute Strategy Research (ASR) represents an exciting joint venture, combining Absa’s leadership in capital markets brokerage with ASR’s globally acclaimed expertise in macroeconomic analysis and investment strategy.

Read the first issue of Absa CIB's Focused on FX newsletter and get the latest insights and updates from our award-winning foreign exchange experts.

In 2023, a financing deal quietly redrew the boundaries of East Africa’s real estate playbook. Acorn Holdings Limited secured KES 6.7 billion from Absa Group and Absa Bank Kenya to develop ten purpose-built student accommodation sites across Nairobi.

How do macro and market themes shape emerging market currencies like the rand – and what does that mean for your business? Find out in this episode of our Coffee Break Commerce podcast.

Sudeera Harduth, Head: Supply Chain Finance Product Management, TxB Trade and Working Capital, Absa CIB, and Shanelle Maharaj, Manager: Operations, TxB Trade and Working Capital, Absa CIB, explain why cash flow remains king for business and unpack the value of bespoke supply chain financing solutions.