Just as conditions were returning to semi-normal, a number of companies have had to return to more restrictive trading conditions due to the second wave of Covid-19 that is being felt across Europe. SPAR Group is one of them, although it has done pretty well after the last lockdown sent more shoppers to its stores in SA, Ireland and Switzerland as they avoided larger shopping centres. That more than made up for the impact on its foodservice businesses that rely on the hospitality industry.

Brait has also been impacted as its Virgin Active health clubs in the UK and Italy closed their doors once again. So did New Look, the women's fashion chain it owns a stake in. Meanwhile, Investec Property Fund is delaying the declaration of an interim dividend while it assesses the impact of the second wave on its European property portfolio.

More on those stories to follow, along with Sasol's decision to trim the fees paid to its non-executive directors due to the challenges that still lie ahead - and the shareholder value that's been destroyed over the past couple of years. It's shares rose yesterday, as did enX Group's after it said had been approached by potential buyers for one of its businesses.

Finally, if the thought of living in Mauritius appeals to you, the island is opening its doors to foreign nationals. Intercontinental Trust Ltd (ITL) is hosting a free webinar on Wednesday 25 November in collaboration with the Economic Development Board and Prism Chambers. Panelists will shed light on the various opportunities that are available to foreign nationals wishing to relocate in a sun soaked destination where purpose and pleasure are closely intertwined. Follow this link to register.

I hope you have a good day.

Stephen Gunnion

Managing Editor, InceConnect

The latest from Ingham Analytics

Top trader Andrew Kinsey kicked off the week with "Did your seatbelts go to waste?" and advised investors to remain buckled up. December typically serves up binary outcomes that either give Christmas cheer or heartburn. Then on Wednesday we had a preview of the upcoming interim results from JSE heavyweight Prosus entitled "What a drag". And for good reason, the assets over which management have influence outside of Tencent are predicted to serve up another thumping loss and cash drain. Check out their updated Tencent valuation too.