A conversation with Hildegard Wilson, MD of Glacier International.
You’ve been in your role as Managing Director of Glacier International for a few months now. What trends have you observed in the business, and what excites you most about the future?
It’s truly an exciting time to be at Glacier International. One of the most surprising developments has been how much easier the conversation around offshore investing has become. This shift is largely due to evolving regulations and a growing awareness of the need to diversify internationally. We’re seeing a broader range of clients engaging with us – not just high-net-worth individuals, but a more general investor base as well.
Offshore investing can seem daunting to many. What would you say to someone who’s hesitant, especially with the rand being so volatile?
That’s a common concern. The rand is indeed one of the most volatile currencies globally, and trying to time the market can be incredibly difficult. Instead of waiting for the ‘perfect’ moment, we encourage investors to start gaining offshore exposure as soon as possible. The benefits of diversification and access to global opportunities far outweigh the risks of short-term currency fluctuations.
There’s a perception that offshore investing is only for the wealthy. Has that changed?
Absolutely. At Glacier International, we’ve worked hard to make offshore investing more accessible. We’ve lowered the minimum investment in our offshore plan to just R5 000 per month. We’ve also developed a range of risk-profiled solutions that make it easier for financial advisers to integrate offshore options into their clients’ portfolios. It’s about creating inclusive, easy-to-understand products that meet a wide range of needs.
That’s a big step forward. What’s next for Glacier International?
We’re focused on continuing to innovate and expand access to global investment opportunities. Our goal is to empower more South Africans to build resilient, diversified portfolios that can weather local and global economic shifts. We’re excited about the road ahead.
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