The Latest news on Business, Tech and AI
Inflation Target Showdown A Policy Rift with Real-World Consequences South Africans are no strangers to economic uncertainty. From load shedding to fluctuating fuel prices, citizens and businesses alike have learned to adapt to unpredictable financial terrain. But in mid-2025, a different kind of economic storm brewed—one not in the streets or markets, but in the…
The Hidden Cost of Corruption Corruption in South Africa is not just a political issue — it is an economic cancer. Every year, billions of rands are siphoned from the national budget, productivity stalls, investor confidence dips, and businesses are left to navigate a distorted playing field. From load shedding tied to Eskom procurement fraud…
SA GDP Stagnation: Why South Africa’s Economic Growth Keeps Underperforming South Africa, a nation celebrated for its vast potential and sophisticated economic infrastructure, is facing a severe and prolonged period of economic stagnation. For business professionals and investors, understanding the root causes of this underperformance is essential for navigating the market. The country’s Gross Domestic…
The 30% Tariff on South African Goods South Africa woke up to a harsh new trade reality today: the United States has officially slapped a 30% tariff on all South African goods entering its borders. This isn’t just a minor policy shift — it’s a dramatic escalation in global trade tensions with direct consequences for…
What R350 Grant Recipients Teach Us About Micro-Economies and Informal Trade in South Africa In a country grappling with record-high unemployment and deep inequality, South Africa’s R350 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant — a lifeline for over 8 million recipients — has become more than just a survival mechanism. It’s quietly fuelling a network…
The Black Middle Class Is Shrinking — What That Means for SA’s Future Economy South Africa’s economic future is intrinsically linked to the stability and growth of its middle class. However, the nation’s black middle class — households earning between approximately R200,000 and R350,000 annually — is facing increasing strain. This demographic, which once symbolised…
The Cost of Starting a Business in South Africa vs. Other African Markets South Africa has long been considered the gateway to African business, but rising costs and bureaucratic hurdles are pushing entrepreneurs to look elsewhere. While the country still offers sophisticated financial markets and infrastructure, the cost of starting a business here has become…
Eskom Price Increases: 67% Rise Since 2020 Hits SA Businesses Hard South African businesses are buckling under the weight of Eskom’s price increases. Since 2020, electricity tariffs have jumped by 67% – a figure that dwarfs the country’s inflation rate and is forcing companies to make tough choices about their future. What started as manageable…
Start Smart: Logo Before Laptop for SA Side Hustles In South Africa’s booming side hustle economy, everyone dreams of being the next big thing—from vibrant Instagram thrift stores to authentic kasi cooking brands. But while most aspiring entrepreneurs rush to buy the best laptop or secure initial stock, the crucial truth is often overlooked: your…
Temu Launches SA Warehouse – Faster Delivery Chinese e-commerce giant Temu has officially launched its first warehouse in South Africa, and frankly, it’s about time. After months of South African consumers enduring weeks-long delivery times from China, this strategic move promises to shake up our local e-commerce scene in ways that Takealot probably isn’t too…
