The Johannesburg Stock Exchange has opened registrations for its 2026 Investment Challenge, offering young South Africans the opportunity to manage virtual portfolios worth R1 million and win substantial prizes.
The flagship programme aims to teach investing fundamentals through a simulated, real-time trading platform where participants can trade JSE-listed shares without financial risk. Teams will compete from 16 March to 15 September 2026, with monthly prizes awarded throughout the period.
Ralph Speirs, Senior CSI Officer at the JSE, emphasised the educational value of the initiative. “At the JSE, we believe that financial literacy is a vital life skill for young people. It empowers them to make smart choices and confidently manage their finances as they become adults,” he said.
“By giving young South Africans real investing and market experiences, we help them build a solid foundation.”
Significant prize pool for winners
Overall winners will share R1 million in investment vouchers, whilst the top tertiary team in the speculator category will win an international stock exchange trip. The awards ceremony is scheduled for October 2026.
The programme has shown remarkable growth, with more than 66 000 participants taking part in 2025.
High school learners in Grades 8 to 12 can enter in teams of four, supervised by a teacher. Registration takes place at schools.jse.co.za.
Tertiary students can form teams of two to four from the same institution, regardless of their field of study. These teams register at university.jse.co.za.
JSE team visits Western Cape campus
As part of the national roadshow, the JSE team was at the University of the Western Cape today (Wednesday 25 February) and also Thursday (25 February), to encourage uptake among the student body.
The JSE will conduct a national university roadshow from February to April to promote registrations and organise campus activations. The tour will visit institutions including Walter Sisulu University, University of Cape Town, Stellenbosch University, University of South Africa campuses, Rhodes University, University of KwaZulu-Natal Westville, Durban University of Technology, and University of Zululand.
Participants can follow updates on social media at @jseinvestmentchallenge across Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok platforms.
The JSE has operated for 137 years and ranks among the Top 20 exchanges globally by market capitalisation. In 2025, the exchange’s ETF market grew by approximately 29%, representing an increase of around R60 billion.
For enquiries, contact the JSE at info@jse.co.za or 011 520 7000.
