Reflections from the Allan Gray Investment Conference 2026
Two days at an investment conference were a reminder that while the tools evolve, the principles of successful investing remain remarkably consistent.
Two days at the Allan Gray Investment Conference were a timely reminder that while the tools we use continue to evolve, the fundamental principles of successful investing remain remarkably consistent.
Artificial intelligence, data, automation and technology featured prominently throughout. The consensus wasn’t that AI will replace investment managers or financial advisers, but that it will become an increasingly powerful tool for better research, improved decision-making and less administrative burden. The human element — judgement, experience, discipline and independent thinking — remains the real source of long-term investment value.
One point particularly resonated: markets are still driven by human emotion — fear, greed, optimism and pessimism. AI may make information travel faster, but it doesn’t remove human behaviour. If anything, it can amplify herd thinking. Superior returns rarely come from doing what everyone else is doing. They come from thinking differently, while staying grounded in sound investment principles.
What came up again and again
- 1Long-term investing continues to outperform attempts to predict short-term market movements.
- 2Independent thinking remains one of the greatest competitive advantages.
- 3Volatility is not something to fear — it often creates opportunity.
- 4Technology should enhance decision-making, not replace it.
- 5Strong investment cultures are built on continuous learning, adaptability and intellectual humility.
Firms such as Allan Gray and Orbis are using decades of proprietary research, together with AI, to improve investment decisions while remaining committed to a disciplined, value-investing philosophy.
The investment landscape will keep evolving. Our role does not: helping clients stay focused on what matters most, filter out the noise, and make thoughtful long-term decisions aligned with their lives and goals.
This article is general information and not advice. Silke Financial Services is an Authorised Financial Services Provider, FSP No. 12462.