The JSE & Global Markets Reach a Milestone - Will You Be Part of the Next?

The Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) recently reached an incredible milestone, hitting 100,000 index points for the first time in history. This achievement is a powerful reminder of the JSE’s resilience and long-term growth potential, even in the face of economic uncertainty and market volatility. Index points reflect the value of a stock market index, with changes indicating the direction and magnitude of market movements.

For South African investors, this moment marks a new chapter in the country’s financial story, one that reflects innovation, opportunity, and the power of participating in the market. The big question is: will you be part of the next milestone?

For investors, this milestone is more than just a figure; it shows the value that’s been built over time. It shows that companies listed on the JSE have collectively delivered enough growth to push the index into uncharted territory. This matters because when markets grow, so do the opportunities for wealth creation. It’s a call for both seasoned investors and beginners to take a closer look at the market’s potential, knowing that participation, in any amount, allows them to share in these historic moments. 

Standout Performers Driving Market Momentum

Some companies have been standout performers this year, with share prices surging by more than 100% since January. These include Blue Label Telecoms Ltd, which has risen by 183.56%; Sibanye Stillwater Ltd, at 168.76%; AngloGold Ashanti PLC, at 143.08%; Northam Platinum Holdings Ltd, at 130.26%; and Gold Fields Ltd, at 125.01%. Their exceptional performance has played a significant role in driving the index higher, reflecting the strong momentum in specific market sectors. 

Global Markets Are Also Rallying

The bullish momentum is not limited to South Africa. Globally, markets are also setting new records; the FTSE 100 Index recently touched the major 9,000 level for the first time, while the Nasdaq Composite in the United States reached a new all-time high. Gains have been rapid, supported by many large blue-chip and growth stocks advancing to multi-year or record levels.

• In the UK, Fresnillo PLC has risen by 179.32%, Rolls-Royce Holdings PLC by 89.85%, Airtel Africa PLC by 85.56%, Endeavour Mining PLC by 74.18%, and BAE Systems PLC by 53.07%. 

• In the US, top Nasdaq performers include  Palantir Technologies Inc up 140.91%, DoorDash Inc at 61.54%, Shopify Inc at 58.22%, Idexx Laboratories Inc at 57.23%, and Zscaler Inc at 51.04%. These performances highlight the strength and diversity of the global market rally. 

Investment Strategies for Every Investor

Investors looking to participate in these kinds of market moves have options. Some prefer to invest directly in single stocks, targeting companies they believe will outperform, while others take a broader approach by investing in funds that track entire indexes like the JSE All Share, FTSE 100, or Nasdaq Composite.

Index YTD performance

The JSE, FTSE 100, and Nasdaq have all delivered impressive double-digit returns this year, underscoring strong global market momentum.

• The JSE has surged by 19%,
• while both the FTSE 100 and Nasdaq have each gained around 11%. 

The first approach could offer higher potential returns but comes with greater risk, as performance depends on the fortunes of individual companies. Growth in these stocks can also come with several benefits, such as passive income through dividends when declared, while share buybacks by companies can contribute to share price growth, rewarding shareholders further. The second offers instant diversification, spreading risk across many companies while still allowing investors to benefit from overall market growth. 

What History Tells Us 

While past performance does reflect future performance, history has shown us that reaching milestones like this is neither the first nor the last time the JSE, or any major index, often breaks records. Over the decades, markets have consistently set new highs, each one eventually surpassed as economies grow, companies innovate, and investor confidence builds. These moments serve as reminders that while short-term market movements can be unpredictable, the long-term trend has always pointed toward growth, and those who stay invested are often the ones who get to celebrate every new peak along the way.

Again, investing is no longer for those only with deep pockets or deep understanding; EasyEquities is changing the game, whether investing R5 or millions, investors can own shares, or even fractional shares, in some of the most expensive and sought-after companies on the market. This inclusivity ensures that every investor, regardless of their starting point, can celebrate the same milestones and enjoy the benefits of market participation. The financial sector has evolved, and access to high-value shares is now open to everyone.

When it comes to building wealth, time truly is money. History has shown that spending time in the market, staying invested through the ups and downs, often outperforms trying to predict the perfect entry and exit points. Consistent investing allows investors to benefit from compounding returns and participate in future milestones the moment they happen. The JSE’s record-breaking achievement is not just a celebration of the market’s past; it’s an invitation to be part of its future.

* Performance period used in this article - 31 Dec 2024  to 08 Aug 2025 
* Past performance does not guarantee future performance.

Sources – EasyResearch.

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