Latest News & Developments
inflation
Rand flexes its muscles against the dollar as new inflation targeting plans roll in
After starting the day at R18. 01 to the dollar, the South African rand shows signs of strengthening.
Producer inflation cools to 0. 5% in March, yet food costs signal price pressures
Discover how the recent drop in South Africa's Producer Price Index to 0. 5% in March could influence inflation, while food price pressures loom large.
Inflation might be down, but don't get your hopes up for an interest rate cut just yet
Despite a surprising drop in inflation to 2. 7%, the South African Reserve Bank remains cautious about interest rate cuts due to ongoing geopolitical tensions. Experts weigh in on the implications for the economy.
South African inflation drops by 0. 5 percentage points in March
Annual consumer price inflation in South Africa fell unexpectedly to 2. 7% in March, raising questions about potential interest rate cuts.
Global shipping navigates Trump tariffs uncertainty
Cargo ships put to sea half empty, fluctuating freight rates and possible shipping route changes are some of the recent adjustments industry specialists have noted.
Clothing sales helps beat the February retail sales blues
Retail sales, overall, contribute 20% to the economy, with the wholesale and retail sectors, specifically, being estimated to be the fourth-largest contributors to the country's GDP.
How the 90-day US tariff relief will impact the South African property market
While the 90-day tariff pause offers a momentary respite, the broader implications of global trade policies on South Africa's property market remain complex.
VAT Crisis | Beyond the Pump: How South Africa's fuel taxes affect daily life
While fuel taxes remain unchanged in the 2025 Budget, South Africans still pay R6. 21 per litre in levies, affecting everything from food prices to taxi fares and widening the gap between rich and poor.
What if Trump’s tariffs actually make sense?
They’re messy, risky, and unpopular – but they might be part of a bigger, smarter plan.
Trump remains defiant on tariffs amid escalating trade tensions
US President Donald Trump remains resolute in his tariff plans, claiming there is no inflation, despite significant market downturns triggered by China's retaliatory measures.
Spaza shops under threat: Navigating new regulations and economic challenges
Thousands of spaza shops in South Africa are closing due to stringent registration requirements imposed by Cogta.
'Too Little to Survive' | South African grant recipients struggle despite R130 increase
South African grant recipients say the R130 increase to old age pensions is insufficient as inflation and VAT hikes erode their purchasing power. Economists warn that while social grants remain a lifeline for millions, political deadlock between ANC and DA within the Government of National Unity threatens long-term solutions to poverty.
Scrapped VAT hike to lift SA’s economic outlook and consumer spirits
Following ActionSA's successful campaign against a proposed VAT hike, South Africans can expect lower inflation and improved consumer confidence.
Food prices likely to spike despite improving power supply, fuel costs: Report
While food inflation shows signs of easing, ongoing challenges from loadshedding, high transport costs, and drought conditions continue to threaten food security and strain household budgets. The report reveals changing consumer behaviors, with many South Africans switching to more affordable protein alternatives as they navigate the country's complex food pricing landscape.
Producer price inflation expected in 2025 to rise despite dipping in February
South Africa's Producer Price Inflation moderated to 1% in February, below market expectations of 1. 3%. Despite this easing, analysts predict a gradual uptick throughout 2025, with food and fuel prices expected to lead the increase amidst global economic pressures and local challenges.
Petrol price set to nosedive in April
Economists forecast a significant decrease in petrol prices for South African motorists in April, driven by a stronger Rand and lower international oil prices.
SARB interest rate easing cycle likely coming to an end, says Absa
Absa's economic team warns that the South African Reserve Bank's interest rate cutting cycle may be coming to an end following the decision to keep the repo rate unchanged at 7. 50%. Despite lower inflation forecasts, concerns about global trade tensions and domestic uncertainty are likely to prevent further cuts in the near term
Cosatu calls for amendment to Budget, slams proposed VAT hike
Parliamentary finance committees met to discuss South Africa's economic policies, with COSATU strongly opposing the proposed VAT increase that they argue will harm working-class families already struggling with inflation and high unemployment.
Petrol price to take a nosedive in April, economists predict
Economists forecast a significant decrease in petrol prices for South African motorists in April, driven by a stronger Rand and lower international oil prices.
Everything we know about the repo rate decision
Explore the implications of the South African Reserve Bank's latest repo rate decision and what it means for the economy.
Interest rates remain unchanged, adding pressure on consumers
The Monetary Policy Committee's decision to maintain interest rates at 7. 5% raises concerns for consumers and the economy, as experts call for action to ease financial pressure.
Reserve Bank expected to keep interest rates on hold amid VAT, inflation pressures
The South African Reserve Bank faces a crucial decision on interest rates as inflation continues to challenge economic stability. Here's what economists predict and how it could affect your wallet.
Will South Africa's interest rates change amid rising inflation risks?
South Africa faces a crucial interest rate decision this Thursday, as inflation risks loom large and analysts predict cautious moves from the Reserve Bank amid shifting economic conditions.
Reserve Bank expected to keep interest rates on hold amid VAT, inflation pressures
The South African Reserve Bank faces a crucial decision on interest rates as inflation continues to challenge economic stability. Here's what economists predict and how it could affect your wallet.
Will South Africa's interest rates echo Trump's policies? Key insights ahead of the announcement
The President of the USA, the world’s biggest economy said with the oil price going down, he will demand that interest rates drop immediately and likewise they should be dropping all over the world.