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In this episode, hosts Dewald Kirsten and Louise Brodie sit down with Werner Opperman, Head of Capital Partners at 27four Investment Managers and the lead behind Agrarius, to unpack the evolving world of agricultural finance, investment opportunities, sustainability, risk, and the future role of technology in food production.

Werner has been a guest on the podcast twice before, but this conversation goes deeper than ever. Together, the hosts explore how Agrarius—South Africa’s JSE-listed agricultural investment vehicle—structures capital solutions for producers, why agriculture is misunderstood by traditional finance, and why global investors are increasingly looking to Southern Africa for food security.

This two-hour discussion covers everything from risk modelling and project-based funding to global trade dynamics, carbon credits, sustainability standards, AI in agriculture, and the major infrastructure constraints facing South African agribusiness today.

Key Takeaways

•Agriculture is far less risky than people believe—the real issue is perception and lack of specialist knowledge.

•South Africa remains an attractive investment destination for agricultural production despite tough local conditions.

•Impact investment works best when tied to measurable, science-based standards, something the industry urgently needs.

•AI is accelerating rapidly, already transforming analysis, packing, risk assessment, and livestock management.

•Carbon credits have huge potential, but the global standardisation gap is preventing widespread adoption.

•Collaboration across funds, exporters, farmers, and government is essential for building infrastructure and long-term food security.

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