However, while its hardware kept improving, the main constraints of its size did not.

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Iraj Abedian, an economist and chief executive of Pan-African Capital Holdings, says a pitiful shortage of skills is one of the main constraints on economic growth.

ECONOMIST: White flight from South Africa

Three main factors are blamed for the likely constraints on long-term finance.

BBC: Warning over infrastructure spending

Meanwhile, Deutsche Boerse would face similar constraints if it decided to make its own clearing provider, Eurex Clearing, the main provider for the LSE.

BBC: The watchdog's report could spark further bids for the LSE