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Thursday, May 22, 2025

Philippa Larkin

Business Reporter Editor

Johannesburg to host WUWM conference, focusing on Africa's fresh produce ambitions

Join industry leaders at the WUWM Conference in Johannesburg, where Africa's fresh produce potential will be explored through sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity.

Business Report
Philippa Larkin|Published

Innovative startup hosts world's first sperm race to raise awareness of male fertility decline

Can a sperm race spark a crucial conversation about male fertility? Discover how an innovative startup is using this unique event to raise awareness about a pressing health issue.

Business Report Entrepreneurs
Philippa Larkin|Published

SA's new Employment Equity regulations: A compliance challenge for businesses by 2030

South African businesses must prepare for significant compliance challenges as new Employment Equity regulations take effect on January 1, 2025. These regulations aim to transform the labour market, urging employers to align with equity objectives and avoid hefty penalties.

Business Report Companies
Philippa Larkin|Published

Rand faces investor scrutiny as US snub of envoy Jonas looms

Investors are on high alert as the South African rand faces potential turbulence amid reports of the US rejecting newly appointed envoy Mcebisi Jonas, raising concerns over diplomatic relations and currency stability.

Business Report Economy
Philippa Larkin|Published

Vuyani Jarana appointed to steer Startup20 for G20 Presidency

South Africa has appointed Vuyani Jarana, a seasoned business leader, as chairperson of the Startup20 Engagement Group for its G20 Presidency, aiming to amplify Africa's entrepreneurial voice on the global stage.

Business Report Economy
Philippa Larkin|Published

Editor's Interview: How stablecoins are transforming Africa's financial landscape

Discover how stablecoins are reshaping Africa's financial landscape, offering solutions to costly cross-border payments and driving digital inclusion, as explained by Sonya Kuhnel, co-founder of Bitcoin Events.

Business Report Opinion
Philippa Larkin|Published

Paul Atkins' SEC appointment: A game-changer for US crypto regulation and the 'Magnificent 7'

As the United States sets the tone for global cryptocurrency regulation, central banks and markets worldwide are closely monitoring developments following the Senate’s confirmation of Paul Atkins as the new chair of the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)," accurately reflects the article's content. However, it could be more enticing by highlighting the potential impact on the cryptocurrency market and the "Magnificent 7.

Business Report Markets
Philippa Larkin|Published

B20 Summit: South Africa announces Task Forces for global business policy

South Africa takes a pivotal role in global business policy as it unveils eight Task Forces for the G20, aiming to deliver impactful proposals by September 2025. This historic move, led by prominent business figures, marks a significant step towards amplifying African perspectives on critical global issues.

Business Report Economy
Philippa Larkin|Published

South Africa energises first IPP-built main transmission substation

South Africa reaches a major renewable energy milestone with the commissioning of its first Independent Power Producer-built Main Transmission Substation. Located in the Northern Cape, the Koruson 400/132 kV MTS will connect 1. 5 gigawatts of clean energy to the national grid, marking a significant shift towards private sector-led infrastructure development in the country's energy transition.

Business Report Energy
Philippa Larkin|Published

Student-led innovations shine at Standard Bank's UniHack Competition

Discover how Standard Bank's UniHack Competition brought together innovative student teams to tackle pressing issues in education, mental health, and disability support using cutting-edge technology.

Business Report Companies
Philippa Larkin|Published

SA must broker new US trade deal amid tariff threat, BRICS Business Council leader says

South Africa must urgently pursue a new trade deal with the US to safeguard its economic interests amid rising tariffs and strained diplomatic ties, a senior business leader said, as the Trump administration’s “Liberation Day” policy threatens to unravel decades of duty-free access under the African Growth and Opportunity Act.

Business Report Economy
Philippa Larkin|Published

Watch VideoEditor’s Note: Amid the market carnage South Africa must master the art of the deal - fast

US President Donald Trump's recent tariff announcement has sent shockwaves through global markets, particularly affecting South Africa's economy. As the country braces for a potential 40% tariff on exports, leaders scramble to navigate this new economic landscape. Discover how South Africa plans to respond to these challenges and what it means for the future of trade.

Business Report Opinion
Philippa Larkin|Published

South Africa's Tau and Lamola outline strategy to urgently tackle new US tariffs

South Africa unveils a comprehensive strategy to mitigate the impact of new US tariffs, aiming to safeguard its industrial base and foster inclusive economic growth amid escalating global trade tensions.

Business Report Economy
Philippa Larkin|Published

Bank Zero and Green Riders: empowering SA’s marginalised youth through entrepreneurship

Discover how the partnership between Bank Zero and Green Riders is revolutionising entrepreneurship for South Africa’s marginalised youth, providing innovative banking solutions to support vital small and medium-sized enterprises.

Business Report Entrepreneurs
Philippa Larkin|Published

SiyaQhubeka Forests enhances community ownership in a groundbreaking forestry deal

SiyaQhubeka Forests has significantly increased its community partner's equity stake, marking a pivotal moment for inclusive growth in South Africa's forestry sector. This partnership with Mondi South Africa and Safcol aims to empower local communities, creating job opportunities and fostering economic participation

Business Report Companies
Philippa Larkin|Published

Old Mutual's insights on US trade policies and economic headwinds

Global markets brace for US President Donald Trump's trade tariffs as Old Mutual's Siboniso Nxumalo and Meryl Pick analyse the economic headwinds and investment strategies for South Africa.

Business Report Markets
Philippa Larkin|Published

Rand on backfoot amidst global market jitters ahead of Trump's tariff salvo

The rand has weakened against the dollar as investors brace for US President Donald Trump's tariff announcements. What does this mean for South Africa's economy?

Business Report Markets
Philippa Larkin|Published

Absa Group's leadership shuffle: Executive pay rises amid reputational challenges

Absa Group's 2024 integrated report reveals a tumultuous leadership shuffle that has raised eyebrows, as interim CEO Charles Russon's pay surged to R35. 47 million amidst a backdrop of reputational challenges and a shifting African banking landscape.

Business Report Companies
Philippa Larkin|Published

SA Revenue Service collects record revenue ahead of Budget vote

ars has set a new benchmark by collecting R2. 303 trillion in gross revenue for the 2024/25 fiscal year, surpassing expectations just before the crucial Budget vote. This achievement not only reflects the agency's efficiency but also promises significant benefits for taxpayers and the economy.

Business Report Economy
Philippa Larkin|Published

OECD: Navigating the uncertainties of the ocean economy by 2050

The OECD’s report on the ocean economy reveals a doubling in value from $1 trillion in 1995 to $2 trillion in 2020, yet warns of significant threats from climate change and geopolitical tensions. As the ocean economy could quadruple by 2050, urgent action is needed to secure its future.

Business Report Economy
Philippa Larkin|Published

AYO Technology reduces operating expenses, improves cashflow, signalling sustainability

AYO Technology Solutions, an ICT investment group, has reported a remarkable 62% reduction in operating losses for the year ending August 31, 2024, despite facing a 17% decline in revenue to R1. 9 billion.

Business Report Companies
Philippa Larkin|Published

Elon Musk's key advice for entrepreneurs: Focus on usefulness and face challenges

Discover Elon Musk's essential advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in Wisconsin, where he emphasises the importance of creating value and warns of the challenges ahead.

Business Report Entrepreneurs
Philippa Larkin|Published

Editor's Note: April's economic dilemma: South Africa's Budget vote and Trump's tariffs

April brings critical economic challenges for South Africa in 2025, highlighted by a pivotal Budget vote and looming tariffs from the US. As the nation grapples with financial strain and political discord, the stakes have never been higher.

Business Report Opinion
Philippa Larkin|Published

Tribunal issues reasons for blocking Vodacom’s R13. 2bn Maziv deal uver competition concerns

The Competition Tribunal has issued its reasons for prohibiting Vodacom from acquiring a stake in fibre company Maziv, citing significant anti-competitive effects that could harm South African consumers

Business Report Companies
Philippa Larkin|Published

Novus to urgently appeal regulator’s withdrawal of takeover approval for Mustek

Novus Holdings announces its urgent appeal against the Takeover Regulation Panel's withdrawal of approval for its mandatory offer to acquire Mustek Limited, highlighting concerns over shareholder impact and regulatory compliance.

Business Report Companies
Philippa Larkin|Published