INTRODUCTION

The hallmark of the contemporary world is change at an accelerating pace. The pace of change is being dictated by the dramatic shifts in science, technology, demographics, geo-political conditions and the global economy. The world continues to get smaller, with factors such as declining trade barriers and e-commerce enabling businesses to reach every corner of the world quicker and more efficiently. In addition, trends such as globalization, deregulation and consolidation coupled with a dramatic shift in the internet and information technology, have combined to consolidate the investment banking industry to a few global players that will dominate the top-end of the industry. With the industry undergoing constant restructuring and national borders in the financial market place rapidly diminishing under the forces of globalization, Makinta has firmly established itself as a premier niche player focusing on businesses that is ironically beyond the reach of the giant players. Corporate Clients moderate size combined with their expectation of a broad and deep relationship makes it difficult for the global players to have an economic relationship with these companies on a sustainable basis. In addition, as with most industries, the lower the target market, the higher the local knowledge and know-how required. It is this strategic advantage and a focused niche strategy that will underwrite the future growth of Makinta.