Investors tend to talk about equities, equities and more equities. This can be a mistake, especially in an environment where yields are strong. In the latest Ghost Stories podcast, Siyabulela Nomoyi of Satrix joined me to put the spotlight on Satrix's bond ETFs and how they can be used in a portfolio. Expand your investment knowledge and listen to this insightful show>>>

A new episode of Ghost Wrap is coming your way tomorrow. Make sure you didn't miss Episode 36, which covered the gold sector updates early last week (AngloGold, Sibanye-Stillwater, Gold Fields and Pan African Resources b>) as well as the latest in the telecoms sector (MTN and Telkom). I also covered Ellies and Curro for a bit of variety. Brought to you by Mazars, you'll find it here>>>

The reality of retail stocks

Episode 136 of Magic Markets is about as broad a discussion as you could ever hope for in just 20 minutes. We covered a number of different retailers both locally and abroad, sharing insights into the business models and whether they are defensive or cyclical. Magi c Markets is for those who are committed to taking their investment knowledge to the next level. Listen to the show here>>>

For more insights into global business, you can read this article that I wrote alongside Dominique Olivier, dealing with rebranding of social media platforms and what it means.

Upcoming events

You've got just enough time to register for the Grovest and ENSafrica webinar this afternoon at 4:30pm. The teams will be talking about how the Twelve B Energy Fund can shield your income f rom tax in this provisional tax period. Attendance is free but you must register here>>>

Speaking of free attendance, you can attend the Money Summit at the Sandton Convention Centre on 14 September for free provided you use the code Ghost when registering. I know it's still a few weeks away, but get it in your diaries sooner rather than later! Register here>>>

A tale of two cycles

There were only a few updates on Friday. Thankfully, they were important.

The first important update is AngloGold, where HEPS f ell by 54% in the interim period and free cash flow was negative. The announcement went to great lengths to try and paint a picture of an improvement in cadence, which means the second quarter performance vs. the first quarter. This is to convince investors that the second half of the year will be much better than the first half, even if the year-on-year numbers look awful.

The second update that you can't miss is Standard Bank. Although the local banks have indicated that further rate hikes definitely aren't helpful, the current situation is just fine thanks. There was a big jump in HEPS for the six months to June and the share price celebrated accordingly.

Other updates came in from MTN and Europa Metals, along with the usual assortment that you'll find in the Little Bites section. Ghost Bites is your most efficient way to stay up to d ate on local company news. Read it here>>>

Non-farm payrolls helped the rand

The US non-farm payrolls number printed at 187k vs. 200k expected for July, with unemployment coming in at 3.5%. TreasuryONE notes that the weaker US data caused the dollar to lose ground against other currencies, including the rand. Our battered currency improved to R18.45, with gold trading higher at $1,943 per ounce and Brent Crude trading at $85 per barrel.

It's a new week. Make the most of it and keep growing your knowledge base!