Latest news with #ZihaadIsrafil
The Star
01-08-2025
- Business
- The Star
What the SARB rate cut means for traders
The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) has cut interest rates by 25 basis points, bringing the repo rate to 7% and the prime lending rate to 10.50%, marking a key shift in its monetary policy stance after months of tightening and holding. For investors and traders, this move signals renewed support for growth and a more accommodative approach to managing inflation, according to CFI Financial Group, a leading global online trading provider. A rate cut often reflects growing confidence that inflation is under control, while also recognising the need to stimulate spending and investment amid a fragile global backdrop. 'A rate cut of this nature tells us the SARB sees room to boost the economy without risking runaway inflation,' says Zihaad Israfil, CEO of CFI Financial Group South Africa. 'For traders, this is a signal to re-evaluate strategies, particularly in growth-sensitive sectors and currency markets.' With borrowing costs reduced, confidence in risk assets like equities typically improves. Sectors tied to domestic consumption and infrastructure often benefit, while the weaker rand—frequently a by-product of lower rates—can create volatility and opportunity in forex markets. For those tracking pairs like USD/ZAR or assessing momentum on the JSE, market sentiment is likely to shift in the coming days.
IOL News
01-08-2025
- Business
- IOL News
What the SARB rate cut means for traders
The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) has cut interest rates by 25 basis points, bringing the repo rate to 7% and the prime lending rate to 10.50%, marking a key shift in its monetary policy stance after months of tightening and holding. For investors and traders, this move signals renewed support for growth and a more accommodative approach to managing inflation, according to CFI Financial Group, a leading global online trading provider. As monetary policy turns more supportive, CFI highlights how a shift in market sentiment—particularly across forex and equity sectors—can create new opportunities for those trading with discipline and insight. A rate cut often reflects growing confidence that inflation is under control, while also recognising the need to stimulate spending and investment amid a fragile global backdrop. 'A rate cut of this nature tells us the SARB sees room to boost the economy without risking runaway inflation,' says Zihaad Israfil, CEO of CFI Financial Group South Africa. 'For traders, this is a signal to re-evaluate strategies, particularly in growth-sensitive sectors and currency markets.' With borrowing costs reduced, confidence in risk assets like equities typically improves. Sectors tied to domestic consumption and infrastructure often benefit, while the weaker rand—frequently a by-product of lower rates—can create volatility and opportunity in forex markets. For those tracking pairs like USD/ZAR or assessing momentum on the JSE, market sentiment is likely to shift in the coming days.
The Citizen
12-07-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
Tips on how to build your savings and become financially resilient
With many adverse economic forecasts, it is a good idea for consumers to work on their financial future and build resilience now. As the economy struggles due to domestic and international geopolitics, many South Africans need advice to improve their financial future. More than 80% of middle-income South Africans have little or no emergency savings, with 27% having no accessible savings at all and over half holding less than a week's take-home pay in reserve. At the same time, rising living costs, high inflation and stubborn unemployment are squeezing household budgets, Zihaad Israfil, CEO of DFI Financial South Africa, says. 'However, small changes, from tracking spending to using free learning tools, can help every South African improve their financial future. 'In an economic climate where rising costs affect millions, financial empowerment is no longer a nice-to-have, but essential. Too often, people believe that investing or even saving intelligently is only for the wealthy or financially educated. But financial success is built through education, consistency and the courage to take the first step.' ALSO READ: Savings month: How to save like a millionaire – even if you are not one yet He says anyone can improve their situation by shifting focus from fear to small, steady progress. In practical terms, he advises South Africans to start by mastering the basics: setting up a budget and knowing where every rand goes each month. 'Using a simple app or spreadsheet to track expenses can reveal unnecessary costs that can be trimmed. Cutting even small expenses can create breathing room to begin saving. With a budget in place, the next targets should be debt and savings. 'High-interest debt quietly eats away at financial progress,' he cautions. Paying more than the minimum on loans or credit cards can drastically reduce interest over time, freeing up cash flow. Every household should have separate emergency fund At the same time, Israfil says, every household should build an emergency fund. Even a modest cushion can prevent a small crisis from becoming a financial disaster. 'Consistency is key. R500 invested every month may not seem like much, but it adds up over time with compound growth.' He recommends automating transfers to savings or investment accounts by having a fixed amount move into savings as soon as your pay hits the bank, as this removes the temptation to spend first and helps savings grow by paying yourself first each month. ALSO READ: Savings month: Here's how to build your financial future brick by brick With those financial foundations secure, South Africans can begin to think about growth. Israfil stresses that investing is not gambling or a quick-rich scheme. Today's technology makes it easier than ever to start small. There are entry points for virtually every income level, from tax-free savings accounts to low-cost ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds) and retirement annuities. He says the goal is not to chase market timing but to be consistent: even tiny amounts invested regularly can compound into a substantial nest egg over the years. And importantly, everyone can learn – no advanced degree is needed. 'The more you understand, the more confident you become.' Practical tips for resilience and a good financial future To make progress, Israfil recommends these practical steps:
Zawya
05-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
CFI caps off record-breaking 2024 with unprecedented Q4 performance
Dubai, UAE – CFI Financial Group, a leading global online trading provider, has concluded 2024 with record-breaking achievements, reinforcing its status as one of the fastest-growing online trading providers worldwide. With an all-time high in trading volumes, exponential growth in active clients and significant global expansion, CFI has set new industry benchmarks, solidifying its position as a dominant force in online trading. Q4 2024: A Historic Finish to a Landmark Year Unprecedented Trading Volume: In Q4 2024, CFI shattered previous records, surpassing $1.12 trillion in trading volume, exceeding Q3's $1.03 trillion. This milestone brings H2 2024's total to a staggering $2.15 trillion, reflecting a 142% year-over-year increase from H2 2023. Surging Client Activity: Q4 saw a 27% increase from Q3 in active clients. New clients continued their rapid ascent, reinforcing CFI's commitment to providing accessible and efficient trading solutions. Soaring Client Deposits & Transactions: Q4 saw a 39% increase in client funding, following a 31% jump in Q3, reflecting growing confidence in CFI's offerings. Strategic Expansion & Leadership Reinforcement in Q4 CFI's relentless pursuit of global growth and leadership reinforcement was evident in Q4 with key expansions and executive appointments, including: Launch of CFI Financial Investment Company in Azerbaijan, marking the firm's first licensed local presence in the region, with Ilgar Rustambayli appointed as CEO. Commencement of operations in South Africa, furthering CFI's reach across continents, with Zihaad Israfil named CEO. Opening of CFI's third UAE office in Sharjah following its second one in Abu Dhabi, strengthening the company's regional presence and accessibility. Introduction of the CFI Rewards Program, offering exclusive incentives such as VIP experiences at global sporting events and unique client engagement opportunities. Appointment of Ahmad Khatib as Chief Business Development Officer and Ziad Melhem as Chief Marketing Officer, further strengthening CFI's leadership team and positioning the company for continued strategic growth. Industry-Leading Partnerships & Brand Expansion Official Online Trading Partner of MI Cape Town, connecting with cricket's massive 2.5 billion-strong global audience. Exclusive 'CFI Driven by Success' Celebration at Dubai's Museum of the Future, featuring Global Brand Ambassador and seven-time Formula 1™ World Champion Lewis Hamilton. Launch of the 'Trading Transparency+' Program, an initiative dedicated to market education, trading realities and risk awareness, reinforcing CFI's commitment to responsible trading. 2024: A Year of Unparalleled Success & Growth Total annual trading volume exceeding previous records, cementing CFI as an industry leader. A 120% year-over-year increase in new clients, reflecting traders and investors solid demand for the company's services. Expansion into new markets, solidifying CFI's international footprint and reputation as a top-tier financial institution. Technological advancements, including AI-driven trading tools and seamless platform integrations, enhancing the overall trading experience. New Global Brand Ambassador Lewis Hamilton, Seven-Time Formula 1 ™ World Champion, aligning with the group's unwavering pursuit of excellence, innovation and advocacy for diversity and inclusion. Strategic Regional Partnerships with the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, including extended collaborations with NBA Abu Dhabi Games and UFC 308, as well as partnerships with FIBA WASL, the Khaleeji Zain 2024 GCC Cup and many more. Looking Ahead to 2025 Building on this extraordinary year, CFI remains committed to sustained growth, technological innovation and expanding its reach in key markets. With new initiatives in the pipeline, CFI is poised to redefine excellence in the online trading industry in 2025 and beyond. -Ends- For further information, please contact Brazen MENA: E:cfi@ About CFI: CFI Financial Group, established in 1998, is MENA's leading online trading broker with over 25 years of experience. Operating from key locations like London, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Cape Town, Baku, Beirut, Amman and Cairo, CFI provides seamless access to both global and local markets. Offering diverse trading options across equities, currencies, commodities and more, CFI delivers superior conditions, including zero-pip spreads, no commission fees and ultra-fast execution. The company is a leader in AI-driven tools, offering intuitive and advanced solutions for traders of all experience levels. CFI fosters financial literacy through multilingual educational content and inspires excellence through partnerships with global icons like AC Milan, FIBA WASL and MI Cape Town cricket team, as well as the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi. With Seven-Time Formula One™ World Champion Sir Lewis Hamilton as Global Brand Ambassador, CFI reflects a shared commitment to innovation and success while supporting cultural and community initiatives worldwide. For more information: Media Inquiries: Cecilia Natalia Hage, Global PR & Communications Manager,
Khaleej Times
05-02-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Credit Financier Invest caps off record-breaking 2024 with unprecedented Q4 performance, surpassing $1.12 trillion in trading volume
The group has set new industry benchmarks, solidifying its position as a dominant force in online trading CFI Financial Group, a leading global online trading provider, has concluded 2024 with record-breaking achievements, reinforcing its status as one of the fastest-growing online trading providers worldwide. With an all-time high in trading volumes, exponential growth in active clients, and significant global expansion, CFI has set new industry benchmarks, solidifying its position as a dominant force in online trading. Q4 2024: A Historic Finish to a Landmark Year 1. Unprecedented Trading Volume: In Q4 2024, CFI shattered previous records, surpassing $1.12 trillion in trading volume, exceeding Q3's $1.03 trillion. This milestone brings H2 2024's total to a staggering $2.15 trillion, reflecting a 142 per cent year-over-year increase from H2 2023. 2. Surging Client Activity: Q4 saw a 27 per cent increase from Q3 in active clients. New clients continued their rapid ascent, reinforcing CFI's commitment to providing accessible and efficient trading solutions. 3. Soaring Client Deposits and Transactions: Q4 saw a 39 per cent increase in client funding, following a 31 per cent jump in Q3, reflecting growing confidence in CFI's offerings. Strategic Expansion and Leadership Reinforcement in Q4 CFI's relentless pursuit of global growth and leadership reinforcement was evident in Q4 with key expansions and executive appointments, including: 1. Launch of CFI Financial Investment Company in Azerbaijan, marking the firm's first licensed local presence in the region, with Ilgar Rustambayli appointed as CEO. 2. Commencement of operations in South Africa, furthering CFI's reach across continents, with Zihaad Israfil named CEO. 3. Opening of CFI's third UAE office in Sharjah following its second one in Abu Dhabi, strengthening the company's regional presence and accessibility. 4. Introduction of the CFI Rewards Program, offering exclusive incentives such as VIP experiences at global sporting events and unique client engagement opportunities. 5. Appointment of Ahmad Khatib as Chief Business Development Officer and Ziad Melhem as Chief Marketing Officer, further strengthening CFI's leadership team and positioning the company for continued strategic growth. Industry-Leading Partnerships & Brand Expansion 1. Official Online Trading Partner of MI Cape Town, connecting with cricket's massive 2.5 billion-strong global audience. 2. Exclusive 'CFI Driven by Success' Celebration at Dubai's Museum of the Future, featuring Global Brand Ambassador and seven-time Formula 1™ World Champion Lewis Hamilton. 3. Launch of the 'Trading Transparency+' Program, an initiative dedicated to market education, trading realities, and risk awareness, reinforcing CFI's commitment to responsible trading. 2024: A Year of Unparalleled Success and Growth 1. Total annual trading volume exceeding previous records, cementing CFI as an industry leader. 2. A 120 per cent year-over-year increase in new clients, reflecting traders and investors solid demand for the company's services. 3. Expansion into new markets, solidifying CFI's international footprint and reputation as a top-tier financial institution. 4. Technological advancements, including AI-driven trading tools and seamless platform integrations, enhancing the overall trading experience. 5. New Global Brand Ambassador Lewis Hamilton, Seven-Time Formula 1™ World Champion, aligning with the group's unwavering pursuit of excellence, innovation, and advocacy for diversity and inclusion. 6. Strategic Regional Partnerships with the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, including extended collaborations with NBA Abu Dhabi Games and UFC 308, as well as partnerships with FIBA WASL, the Khaleeji Zain 2024 GCC Cup and many more. Looking Ahead to 2025 Building on this extraordinary year, CFI remains committed to sustained growth, technological innovation, and expanding its reach in key markets. With new initiatives in the pipeline, CFI is poised to redefine excellence in the online trading industry in 2025 and beyond.
