Becoming an Intelligent Investor with Mzovuyo Nyamela
Investing is often seen as both an art and a science—balancing informed decision-making with emotional discipline. Mzovuyo Nyamela, an Investment Consultant specializing in Investments at Mentenova, understands this balance well. With a strong foundation in Economics and Econometrics and having cleared the first level of the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) program, Mzovuyo has built a career centered on helping others create sustainable wealth.
The Journey to Becoming an Investment Consultant
Mzovuyo’s path to investment consulting was influenced by the realities of his upbringing in East London, Eastern Cape. Reflecting on his childhood, he recalls seeing queues of people seeking loans after the festive season. “For most low to middle-income earners, the solution to access money is credit—at all costs,” he explains.
This early observation sparked a desire to educate communities about alternatives, such as investing. Pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce in Economics and Econometrics at the University of Johannesburg allowed him to marry his passion for economics with the practicalities of money management. “In studying Economics and Econometrics, I never felt far away from the investment field,” he shares.
His first professional breakthrough came during an internship. Despite challenging circumstances—such as the absence of permanent positions—Mzovuyo focused on excelling in bespoke client investment strategies and research. His persistence paid off when he was offered a junior position in investment consulting, a pivotal moment that reinforced his mantra: “When your back is against the wall, the only way is forward.”
The Philosophy of an Intelligent Investor
Mzovuyo’s investment philosophy is rooted in discipline, patience, and adaptability. He believes successful investing requires balancing long-term goals with the ability to react swiftly to market shifts.
First Investment: Investing in Self
“For me, the first investment was in myself,” Mzovuyo asserts. Emphasizing the importance of continuous learning, he subscribes to the philosophy of prioritizing knowledge and intelligence. “Acquired knowledge is historical; intelligence and wisdom, however, are futuristic,” he explains.
A Science-Based Approach
One of Mzovuyo’s most memorable investments was in the NASDAQ 100 ETF via EasyEquities in 2019. His decision was grounded in understanding the science behind market dynamics, such as valuations, liquidity, and economic sentiment. “There must be science in your investment process so you can measure if it works and whether your investments are adding value or destroying your hard-earned money,” he advises.
However, not all investments yielded positive returns. Reflecting on an early investment in the Spar Group, Mzovuyo admits it was a naïve decision, lacking consideration of management and valuations. “It’s a lesson that taught me the importance of rigorous research before committing capital.”
Mzovuyo emphasizes a diversified approach to risk management. His portfolio includes exchange-traded funds (ETFs), supplemented by sector and regional diversification. He recently added a Global Infrastructure ETF, citing a potential upside driven by the global push toward net-zero goals.
Interestingly, he also personalizes risk management by linking it to his own cost of living. “My portfolio must achieve a return of above 13% to ensure I outperform my personal inflation rate,” he notes. This personalized approach ensures his investments align with his financial realities.
Lessons from Professional Experience
The Role of Mentorship
Mzovuyo credits much of his professional growth to informal mentorship from seasoned colleagues. “Meaningful conversations, whether during client meetings or car rides, shaped my approach. The common trait of winning from those interactions is timing and patience,” he explains.
The Importance of Research and Education
In a constantly evolving market, staying informed is critical. Mzovuyo dedicates time to research, engaging with podcasts and research videos on global economies and trends. “Clients read a lot—sometimes more than you do. As an investor, you need to identify patterns and predict outcomes,” he advises.
Dispelling Myths: The Value of Sustainable Investing
Mzovuyo challenges the misconception that sustainable and impact investing come at the expense of strong returns. “The due diligence in sustainable investments is more thorough, uncovering hidden opportunities and risks,” he explains. Beyond returns, such investments contribute to making the world a better place—a vital consideration for future generations.
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Investors
Discipline, patience, and adaptability are the cornerstones of successful investing, according to Mzovuyo. He urges aspiring investors to start with self-education, remain open to learning from mistakes, and adopt a long-term view. “Your first investment doesn’t have to be perfect. What matters is the lessons you take from it,” he concludes.
About the Expert
Mzovuyo Nyamela is an Investment Consultant at Mentenova, specializing in bespoke investment strategies and portfolio management. He holds a BCom in Economics and Econometrics and has passed CFA Level I. Passionate about financial education, Mzovuyo leverages his expertise to help clients achieve sustainable wealth and navigate complex market environments.
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