While most analysts and commentators seem to be fairly certain that the global economy will avoid a so-called double dip recession or worse, it is equally clear that the sovereign debt crisis – following so shortly on the heels of the financial crisis of 2007/08 – has badly spooked investors and the markets.

Some of the corrective action being taken, such as austerity measures to bring government debt under control, will not be without considerable pain – more so for John Soap than those who caused the problems in the first place.

High unemployment levels are proving to be more stubborn than hoped, or initially believed to be.

At best, the prospects for recovery seem to be slow and at an uneven pace.

There are clear signs that this collection of factors will put real pressure on social stability in some parts of the world and, in fact, has already begun to impact negatively on the social fabric of certain European countries. That in itself could trigger a next crisis.

All this is reflected in one way or another on the pages of this edition of Blue Chip, all in all conveying the message that we are in a period of fundamental change on the economic front.

It is a time that calls for circumspection for those, such as pensioners or near-pensioners, who cannot afford to run the risk of serious knocks.

It is, however, also a time that could richly reward the brave of heart who play their cards right.

While it will be a crucial and trendsetting time for a period into the future, it is also a time of opportunities. In short, it is an epic time of both fear and opportunity.

As is clear from the “2030 Conversations” document reported on in this issue, there are solid opportunities for Africa in general and South Africa in particular. Now is the time to get the basics right to fulfil that potential.

Piet Coetzer