One such a client is Duncan Cairns, CEO of the Third Age Group, in Bloemfontein.

The OFM Business Hour spoke to Cairns and Brendan Jacobs, head of Standard Bank’s Client Coverage and Business Clients in the Northern Cape and Free State, to find out more about how the bank supports small and medium-sized enterprises, as they believe that this sector will provide the key drivers of Africa’s growth.

Also Read: Standard Bank takes Central SA business to new heights

The Third Age Group operates from their own premises in Bloemfontein, recently developed through SBSA Property Finance.  The property provides a modern, eco-friendly and secure working environment to the staff of the Group.

Cairns explains that the BSG ("Broker SUpport Group") was formed in 1996, starting out as a short-term brokerage. The initial owners, Mr D Cairns and P le Roux, saw an opportunity to establish a brokerage service (namely the BSG) to mostly business clients.  

"They then established a relationship with medical doctors and have been operating as a practice manager since 2000.  They have since grown both brokerage (“Stepp”) and practice management (“Rhythm Financial Mentors”) and now boast a staff complement of 75 people."  

Further extensions of the Group have been through property development (“Carat Property Development”), fully accredited accounting services (“Rhythm Accounting”), stockbroking services – both local and international (“Stepp Capital”), a farming operation offering tax-friendly investments (“Silver Bridge Properties”), and a renewable energy division (“Neutral Ground”).  

According to Jacobs, Standard Bank believes that all dreams matter.

“And we find new ways to make them become reality. Standard Bank supports entrepreneurs as they take uncharted paths leading to their growth. As the bank that backs entrepreneurs, we are playing our role in supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses in their journey and quest to start, manage and grow their businesses,” adds Jacobs.

Standard Bank continues to live by its purpose to drive Africa’s growth by putting the dreams and aspirations of its clients and employees at the forefront, providing the experiences, attitude and innovation required to unlock great possibilities.

Listen to the insightful interview below: