Good morning, let’s get into it!
The past year has seen a dramatic shift in the fortunes of several Botswana-listed firms. While some have made historic recoveries, others are grappling with shifting industry dynamics and internal restructuring.
1. Choppies Enterprises Ltd (CHP)
Yearly Return: +170.1% (approx.)
Why it Gained: Choppies is currently the standout performer on the BSE, marking a triumphant "comeback" seven years after its audit scandal. The surge is attributed to a successful streamlining of operations, including the strategic disposal of its Zimbabwe business and a renewed focus on core profitability. Investor confidence has returned as the company positions itself for sustainable growth, nearing its original IPO price for the first time in years.
2. Botswana Telecommunications Corp (BTCL)
Yearly Return: +58.3%
Why it Gained: BTCL has delivered solid results driven by a "digital-first" strategy. Service revenue grew by 4% due to pricing innovation and the expansion of fiber connectivity to over 85% of localities. A strong dividend yield (over 13%) and a 30% increase in profit before tax have made it a favorite for value-seeking investors.
3. BBS Bank (BBS)
Yearly Return: +40.0%
Why it Gained: After a period of transition, BBS Bank has shown significant recovery. Earnings grew by 54% over the past year, moving from a loss-making position to a profit of roughly P38.4 million in its most recent full-year report. This turnaround is largely due to increased net loans and a stabilization of its deposit base following its conversion to a full commercial bank.
4. Cresta Marakanelo (CRESTA)
Yearly Return: -8.6%
Why it Declined: Cresta faced a challenging year as occupancy rates at its business hotels softened. The hospitality industry's high operating leverage meant that even a slight dip in revenue significantly impacted the bottom line, with 2024 net profit falling to P2.4 million from P26.9 million the previous year.
5. Letshego Africa Holdings (LETSHEGO)
Yearly Return: -26.1%
Why it Declined: Letshego has struggled with volatility and a streak of net losses, ending its recent fiscal year with a P70 million loss. Despite a 40% increase in customer deposits, the high cost of credit and regional economic pressures in its African subsidiaries have weighed heavily on its share price.
6. G4S Botswana (G4S)
Yearly Return: -62.9%
Why it Declined: G4S is currently the hardest-hit stock on this list. The company has remained unprofitable, with losses increasing at an average rate of nearly 60% per year over the last five years. High general and administrative expenses relative to stagnant revenue growth have led to a significant erosion of shareholder value.
Weekly Losers: Short-Term Volatility
While the yearly outlook shows long-term trends, the last week has seen specific pressure on Choppies (CHP) and Letshego (LETSHEGO).
Choppies saw a sharp weekly correction, dropping from its 52-week high. This is largely attributed to profit-taking by investors after the stock's massive triple-digit run-up over the year.
Letshego continues to see weekly volatility (approx. 5.6%) as the market reacts to ongoing news regarding its recovery path and regional economic updates.
Source: simplywallst

