Ep 97: Leadership Imperatives for Turbulent Times - David Bach
In this episode, Professor David Bach of IMD Business School sat down with Michael Avery to take a compelling look at the leadership capabilities CEOs need to navigate today’s new era of complexity. From geopolitical fragmentation and the rapid advance of AI to shifting trade dynamics and climate pressures, they unpacked how these forces are rewriting strategic priorities for CEOs worldwide. The conversation also examined Africa’s rising strategic importance and what these changes mean for markets like South Africa.
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Ep 96: Beyond the Branch: How Tech Is Reshaping Banking - Mutsa Chironga
To unpack the fast-shifting world of retail banking in South Africa, Michael Avery sat down with Mutsa Chironga, Managing Executive, Personal Banking at Nedbank. Mutsa shared how customer behaviour, data, and AI are reshaping the industry and offered insights into how convergence across retail, telco, and mobility could redefine banking by 2026.
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Ep 95: Breaking the Spell: Questioning the Narratives That Shape Our World - David Buckham
Following the release of The Spell, David Buckham joined Michael Avery to unpack the book’s key themes. Drawing on examples like Saudi Arabia’s Project NEOM and the global AI race, David explained how powerful narratives reveal the dangers of unchecked power, complicit institutions, and belief systems masquerading as progress.
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Ep 94: Measuring Progress: How African Markets Are Maturing - Jeff Gable & Precious Dube
In this episode, Michael Avery spoke with Jeff Gable, Chief Economist at Absa, and Precious Dube, Macroeconomist for Broader Africa at RMB, about the ninth annual Absa Africa Financial Markets Index, which measures financial market maturity across 29 African nations.
They discussed Africa’s growing financial resilience, progress in market reforms, and the continent’s shift from aid dependency to investment-led growth. Through examples across key economies, the conversation highlighted how reform, innovation, and regional collaboration are shaping Africa’s economic future.
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Ep 93: From Insight to Impact: Data as a Strategic Force in Banking - Prashant Rijhumal
To understand what it really takes to make data a strategic asset, Michael Avery was joined by Prashant Rijhumal, Chief Data & Analytics Officer at RMB.
They unpacked the changing relationship between data, human judgment, and AI - exploring how automation, predictive insights, and ethical governance are redefining decision-making in investment banking.
Prashant also shared practical lessons and a forward-looking view on how data leaders can bridge the gap between information and impact.
The Monocle Banking Podcast, in partnership with esteemed financial journalist, Michael Avery, will explore the world of banking - beyond the vaults and virtual wallets. This weekly series will play host to some of the top minds in the banking industry from around the world.
South Africa