I truly believe that progress starts with the truth- fact-based, unfiltered, unapologetic, and backed by real-world experience.
That’s exactly what ‘Zero Bull Sh*t’ is here to deliver!
This newsletter isn’t about corporate fluff or polished PR spin; it’s about keeping you informed, calling things as they are, and sharing real insights that matter.
But first, let’s take a moment to appreciate the perfect coincidence—ZBS isn’t just the title of this newsletter; it also happens to be my initials!
Back to business, with the
Resources for Africa
PGM Day around the corner, now is the perfect time to dive into the state of PGMs globally- because whether we like it or not, the world’s shifting economic and political landscape is shaping the future of this sector.
PGMs: The Global Storm
Platinum Group Metals have always been at the mercy of supply-demand fluctuations, but right now, the geopolitical landscape is throwing some serious curveballs.
Recent geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and evolving energy policies are reshaping the future of PGMs. With automakers pushing forward with electrification, the question isn’t just about demand—it’s about how quickly the market will shift and where South Africa stands as the dominant producer in that equation.
Global headlines are filled with:
🔹 Tightening regulations and shifting auto industry demands – As the EV revolution advances, the role of PGMs in traditional and hybrid vehicles continues to be impacted.
🔹 Uncertain supply chains – With Russia’s position in the market, ongoing sanctions, and global tensions caused by new rounds of tariffs, supply security is no longer a given.
🔹 South Africa’s energy crisis – Load-shedding and infrastructure challenges put pressure on local producers trying to remain competitive. Yet, there is no respite from the Rand/Dollar exchange rate.
All of this raises one big question: Where does South Africa stand in this global chess game?
The South African PGM Reality
South Africa is home to over 70% of the world’s platinum resources, but sitting on the resources is not enough. If we want to compete on the global stage, we need:
✅ Policy stability – Investors don’t like uncertainty. A clear, long-term strategy is key.
✅ Infrastructure solutions – Reliable power and efficient logistics must be prioritized.
✅ Balance – Balancing production with demand
✅ Innovative thinking – The PGM sector must evolve beyond extraction and look at beneficiation, new applications, and value-adding opportunities.
These are the conversations that must happen at the PGM Day—and not just on stage but in every meeting and every handshake in the corridors.
This is where leadership matters. Not leadership that waits for things to happen—leadership that makes things happen.
One thing is certain—South Africa’s PGM sector cannot afford to be merely reactive. It’s time to lead, adapt, and challenge outdated models.
See you at PGM Indaba. Let’s talk, debate, and—most importantly—get things moving.
From Strategy To Action
In uncertain times, clarity is everything.
At PGM Day, most CEOs will be sharing their company’s strategy for navigating this ‘New World’—connecting the dots in a way that builds trust and provides direction for both internal and external stakeholders.
However, a strategy is only as strong as those who understand and implement it. That’s where THINKspiration comes in, I find.
I’ve used THINKspiration’s Visual Maps across many of the businesses I’ve been involved in—and I still swear by them today. They adorn the corridors and boardrooms of
Manganese Metal Company (Pty) Ltd
, and are still discussed whenever I am amongst old peers, decades later.
They transform complex strategies from overwhelming slide decks into clear, compelling stories—using relatable analogies that resonate across all levels of an organization. These maps don’t just communicate a strategy; they embed it into everyday conversations, ensuring that everyone, from leadership to the front lines, understands their role in bringing it to life.
The
THINKspiration
team will be at PGM Day—if you’re looking for a way to make your strategy stick, connect with them. Because a strategy isn’t just something to present—it’s something to live.
What’s Next?
If you found this newsletter valuable, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with your network, sign up to get the next edition straight to your inbox, and let’s keep the no-nonsense conversations going.
In the next edition, we’ll be diving into: ‘The real impact of ESG in mining’, ‘Navigating investor confidence in uncertain times’ and ‘The future of beneficiation in South Africa’.
No spin. No empty promises. Just real insights and straight talk.
Got something worth adding? We’re always open to strong opinions, fresh perspectives, and industry insights. If you’d like to contribute, reach out—but fair warning, there are no guarantees. If it doesn’t cut through the noise, it won’t make the cut.
See you in the next edition of Zero Bull Sh*t!
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