How these global top 100 companies remain winners during the COVID-19 pandemic

The global top 100 companies have continued to outperform industry peers even amid the market volatility caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Companies like Microsoft, Apple, Netflix, and Tesla have seen increased market capitalization during these challenging times. Speaking with CNBC Africa, Alice Tomdio, Director of Capital Markets at PwC Nigeria, provided insights into the trends and shifts in the market. One of the standout companies that witnessed a significant turnaround is Netflix, which remained in the global top 100 and experienced an increase in value in the tech and e-commerce space between March and June. This surge can be attributed to the rise in online streaming due to the lockdown measures globally. However, the real winners during this period were companies like Saudi Aramco, Apple, Microsoft, and Amazon, which crossed the trillion-dollar mark. These companies embraced technology and innovation, propelling them to success. Tesla, the only automotive company in the top 100, saw its value soar by 94% between March and June. The focus on self-driving cars and technological advancements in the automotive sector contributed to Tesla's remarkable performance. Additionally, Boeing made a comeback to the top 100 list in June, following positive news surrounding the test flights of the 737. Despite the challenges faced by the airline industry, Boeing's resurgence showcases resilience and adaptability. However, not all companies fared well, as NASPAS, a prominent African giant, dropped out of the top 100. With the spin-off of its technology investment division last year, NASPAS may need to pivot towards becoming more tech-enabled to reclaim its position in the future. Looking ahead, the future of the top 100 companies lies in technology adoption and innovation. Companies that embrace a tech-enabled strategy are likely to succeed in the changing landscape. The shift in industry segmentation from traditional sectors to tech highlights the importance of technology in driving value creation. As the world continues to navigate the challenges brought by the pandemic, companies must evolve and adapt to thrive in a tech-driven environment.