As the need for robust model risk management (MRM) grows alongside the increasing integration of AI in financial services, Michael Avery was joined by Jos Gheerardyn, CEO of Yields - one of Monocle UK's strategic partnerships. Jos offered candid insights into the intersection of innovation, regulation, and risk, and explained why continuous monitoring and cross-functional collaboration are critical to building safe, effective AI systems.

To unpack the true state of South Africa’s venture capital and startup ecosystem, Michael Avery sat down with Stephan J. Lamprecht, founder of VS Nova and lead researcher of the SAVCA 2025 VC Industry Survey. They looked beyond the R13.35 billion figure to explore the challenges behind record-low startup exits, the impact of exchange controls on foreign investment, and whether government policy is enabling or hindering growth.

In this episode of The Monocle Banking Podcast, Michael Avery welcomed Advocate Thandi Orleyn as she reflects on 14 years of leadership at BP South Africa. She delved into the critical balance between energy transition and socio-economic realities, exploring the future of oil and gas, the governance hurdles in state-owned entities, and the power of ethical leadership to spark true transformation.