25 Years of Satrix: How Indexation Changed Investing in South Africa

In this Ghost Stories episode, The Finance Ghost chats to René Basson, Head of Brand and Marketing at Satrix, about the history of Satrix, the launch of South Africa’s first ETF, and how innovation like the Satrix Investment Plan and SatrixNOW changed the way South Africans invest. We also look at what’s next for the brand in 2026.

Celebrating 25 Years of Satrix

2025 marked a major milestone for Satrix: 25 years of pioneering indexation in South Africa. From the first institutional mandate in January 2000 to the listing of the Satrix Top 40 ETF later that year, the journey began with courage and vision in an industry that didn’t yet exist.

The Birth of ETFs in South Africa

The Satrix Top 40 ETF launched on 27 November 2000 with a R2.6 billion IPO, marking the start of a new era in South African investing. The name “Satrix” is synonymous with accessibility, innovation, and transforming how South Africans invest.

Making Investing Accessible

In 2006, the Satrix Investment Plan disrupted the market by allowing retail investors to invest from as little as R300 a month. This opened the door for thousands of South Africans to start their wealth-building journey. Nine years later, SatrixNOW launched in partnership with EasyEquities, reducing minimums to zero and ushering in a new era of digital investing.

Going Global

2013 saw the introduction of the first global product, the Satrix MSCI World Equity Index Fund, giving South Africans access to offshore markets. This was followed by international ETFs in 2017, meeting growing demand for global diversification.

Innovation and Recognition

From fractional investing to fee leadership, Satrix has consistently driven innovation. In 2020, Harvard Business School published a case study on Satrix’s strategy, highlighting its role in democratising investing and shaping the passive investment industry in South Africa.

Looking Ahead to 2026

With R290 billion* in assets under management and a growing investor base, Satrix continues to focus on access, education, and low-cost investing. Expect more innovation, new products, and a continued commitment to helping South Africans own the market.

Closing Thought:

As René says, “Our tagline, ‘Own the Market,’ perfectly captures what we do. It reflects our commitment to access, inclusion, and trust, and we’re proud of the role we’ve played in transforming investing in South Africa.”

Click here to listen.

*Source: Satrix, 30 September 2025

Disclaimer:

Satrix Investments (Pty) Ltd & Satrix Managers (RF) (Pty) Ltd is an authorised financial services provider. The information does not constitute advice as contemplated in FAIS. Use or rely on this information at your own risk. Consult your Financial Adviser before making an investment decision. While every effort has been made to ensure the reasonableness and accuracy of the information contained in this document (“the information”), the FSP’s, its shareholders, subsidiaries, clients, agents, officers and employees do not make any representations or warranties regarding the accuracy or suitability of the information and shall not be held responsible and disclaims all liability for any loss, liability and damage whatsoever suffered as a result of or which may be attributable, directly or indirectly, to any use of or reliance upon the information. For more information, visit https://satrix.co.za/products