Gauteng schools claimed top honours in multiple categories of the JSE Investment Challenge this June, securing the majority of top spots as they competed against teams from across the country.

 

Published 29 Jul 2025
Posted by khashanem

Johannesburg, 29 July 2025 - The JSE Investment Challenge is a virtual trading competition that introduces high school and university students to the fundamentals of investing on the JSE. Students gain practical experience and insights into financial markets, strengthening their financial literacy in an accessible and engaging format.

Participants form teams and manage virtual portfolios, making real-time decisions based on market movements and economic trends. Through this hands-on experience, learners gain valuable insights into the financial markets, develop strategic thinking, and build teamwork skills, all while competing for monthly and overall prizes.

This unique mix of education and excitement is what makes the Challenge so appealing to young participants. Giba Mahlangu, a teacher and Challenge Lead at Hoerskool Birchleigh, said, “Our students are seeing that financial knowledge is not only empowering for their personal futures, but also an exciting area of competition and teamwork. These results inspire others at our school to participate and grow their understanding of economics and investing. The Challenge encourages them to think critically about the markets, develop strategy, and learn how to manage risk — skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom.”

Equity Portfolio winner, James Baird from Ashton International College said that he joined after seeing the success of his peers and wanted to explore the world of investing for himself, “ The JSE Investment Challenge is a great learning experience. I’m probably more business-minded than my academically inclined colleagues, but even if you’re a beginner in financial markets, the Challenge provides guidance to get you up to speed quickly. It’s very useful,” James went on to say.

This spirit of curiosity and growth was clearly reflected in the June results, where all the winning teams hailed from Gauteng. Their success highlights not only their increasing confidence in navigating financial concepts, but also the commitment of teachers and mentors who continue to guide and encourage them throughout the competition.

Ralph Speirs, Senior CSI Officer at the JSE, said, “The strong performance by Gauteng schools this month reflects the province’s emphasis on innovative and practical education approaches. Every month we see impressive talent from schools and universities across the country. It’s clear that the future of our financial markets is in capable hands.”

The JSE Investment Challenge continues to attract growing participation, with over 40,000 students registered in 2025 to date. Registration is still open, and Interested schools and tertiary institutions can still participate in the challenge registering electronically at schools.jse.co.za and university.jse.co.za. To stay updated, follow the competition’s social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok.

The June category winners are:

  • Income Portfolio: The Real Builders–HSB from Hoerskool Birchleigh, Gauteng
  • Equity Portfolio: Kings of the Hill from Ashton International College, Benoni
  • Speculator Portfolio: George Washington Carver-HSB from Hoerskool Birchleigh, Gauteng
  • ETF/ETN Portfolio: Masters from Lethukuthula Secondary School, Gauteng
  • Speculator Portfolio University: ABS5-Pierpoint & Ho from University of Cape Town
  • ETF/ETN Portfolio University: UKZN–K Capital from University of KwaZulu-Natal

ENDS

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