Clear market notes built around the JSE, the rand, and what matters locally.

2026-10-02 09:30 • The Motley Fool Mixed Axe Cap view: Selective

PayPal stock has plummeted 83% from its July 2021 peak of $305.13, despite solid fundamentals including 56% growth in payment volume and 64% growth in free cash flow over five years. The main concern is weakness in the company's branded checkout solution, which grew only 2% in recent quarters, suggesting loss of market share to competitors like Apple Pay and potential sensitivity to consumer discretionary spending. For the stock to recover, the branded checkout segment must accelerate, though the author remains skeptical of a full recovery to previous highs.

Axe note: PayPal’s recovery hinges on reviving its branded checkout, but South African investors should watch how this impacts USD/ZAR and local fintechs.

2026-10-02 09:13 • The Motley Fool Positive Axe Cap view: Selective

The article advises investors to prepare for potential bear markets by understanding their investments through Warren Buffett's 'circle of competence' philosophy. By thoroughly understanding the companies you own—their business models, competitive advantages, and fundamentals—investors can avoid panic selling during market downturns and potentially capitalize on lower valuations. The S&P 500 has risen 12% through September 2026 with elevated valuations, but successful investors focus on fundamentals rather than timing the market.

Axe note: Stick to what you know to weather market storms and find value amid volatility.

2026-10-02 09:10 • The Motley Fool Mixed Axe Cap view: Selective

Nebius and CoreWeave are competing neocloud companies racing to meet AI computing demand, but both face significant financial challenges. While Nebius shows stronger operational fundamentals with 454% YoY revenue growth and owns its data centers, it trades at 46x sales. CoreWeave trades at just 6x sales but has a more precarious financial position with higher debt reliance. The author recommends Nebius as the better investment despite its premium valuation, but cautions both stocks carry substantial risk.

Axe note: Nebius leads on growth and operational strength, CoreWeave looks cheaper but carries more risk.