Kaya Biz: Recent Episodes
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At the helm of Gauteng’s biggest business radio show, Kaya Biz, is Gugulethu who will be leading the conversation on what is next for the Afropolitan business landscape. The show presents local and international business news, entrepreneurship, corporate and investment banking. Since its inception in May 2006 Kaya Biz has grown from a half-an-hour daily finance update to an hour show bringing compelling business news and market reviews to listeners.
Across Africa, women are the backbone of informal trade, micro-entrepreneurship and community-based commerce. They run cross-border businesses, drive household economies, and power the continent’s most resilient markets. Yet millions remain ‘credit invisible’. Tonight, as part of our Women’s Month coverage, we speak to someone who is working to change that. Jeannine Naudé, Vice President and Head of Africa Regions at TransUnion Africa, helps us unpack how Africa can dismantle credit invisibility, unlock capital for women entrepreneurs, and build financial identities that travel across borders. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
South African women are confident — but they’re not yet financially free. That’s the headline from the inaugural 1Life Women’s Life Confidence Index, which surveyed nearly a thousand women across the country. The research shows that 57% of women feel mostly or completely empowered to make decisions about their future. But despite this confidence, 38% say insufficient income is the single biggest barrier to achieving financial security. To help us unpack these findings, we’re joined by Hayley Parry, Money Coach and Facilitator of 1Life’s Truth About Money. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
As Women’s Month begins, Mercer Africa’s Keletjo Chiloane explores how AI, workforce expectations and outdated benefits are reshaping women’s experience at work. With women disproportionately exposed to skills gaps, job redesign risks and trust deficits, Keletjo outlines what employers must do to redesign work, benefits and culture so women can thrive in the future workplace. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
The July 2026 Household Affordability Index shows the average food basket rising to R5 530.52, with transport and electricity swallowing 62% of a worker’s wage. Families are left with just R522 per person for food — far below the national food poverty line. PMBEJD’s Mervyn Abrahams unpacks the data, regional trends, nutritional deficits, and what this means for households heading into the rest of 2026. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
A high court has overturned the suspension of PIC CEO Patrick Dlamini, ordering his reinstatement and raising fresh questions about governance at South Africa’s largest asset manager. With a new board appointed and a regulator investigation underway, Stephen Sadie of the Chartered Governance Institute of Southern Africa breaks down the implications for oversight, credibility, and the stewardship of more than R3 trillion in public funds. A critical conversation on governance, due process and institutional stability at a pivotal moment for the PIC. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Redefine CEO Andrew Konig explains why resilience in property is built long before the next crisis hits. From portfolio simplification and balance‑sheet discipline to energy‑generation opportunities and consumption‑driven markets, this conversation explores how long‑term strategy shapes performance in a volatile environment. A masterclass in property fundamentals and strategic foresight. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
South African Airways is entering a new phase of growth, expanding its global reach through fresh partnerships with Emirates and Turkish Airlines. Acting Group Chief Officer Matshela Seshibe unpacks SAA’s operational recovery, route strategy, fleet plans and the broader economic impact of a stronger national carrier. A deep dive into connectivity, competitiveness and the business of aviation in South Africa. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Nedbank reported resilient half-year results, with revenue up 6%, costs tightly contained, and ROE holding above the cost of equity. COO Mfundo Nkuhlu discusses the bank’s operational momentum, digital and AI-driven efficiencies, and the NCBA acquisition. He also reflects on his upcoming retirement after more than two decades of leadership and how he’s ensuring a smooth transition. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Economist Sello Sekele breaks down the July Absa PMI, which slipped to 46.8 but masks underlying improvements in domestic demand and production. We explore easing supply chain pressures, falling price inflation, weak export demand, and why business confidence has dipped sharply. Sello explains what the data means for Q3 manufacturing momentum www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
The JSE posted a robust first half of 2026, with operating income up 14.6% and HEPS rising 18.8%. CEO Valdene Reddy unpacks the drivers behind the exchange’s broad‑based growth, disciplined cost management, and near‑perfect operational reliability. She also reflects on the JSE’s long‑term strategy, FORGE 2031, and what these results signal for South Africa’s capital markets. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
CEO Mark Gounder discusses Hulamin’s interim results, highlighting improved operational performance, stronger headline earnings, and the strategic disposal of non‑core businesses. We unpack how the Group is using freed‑up working capital to strengthen its balance sheet and reduce debt, and what the next phase of the turnaround looks like. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
South Africans are more optimistic than they’ve been in years — but the 2026 Old Mutual Savings & Investment Monitor reveals a widening divide between those building wealth and those under mounting financial pressure. Vuyokazi Mabude, Head of Knowledge & Insights at Old Mutual, breaks down rising confidence, growing debt reliance, the surge in informal loans, and why savings goals remain strong despite affordability strain. We explore how households can turn optimism into meaningful financial action. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
The FSCA has entered a new era of enforcement — and Phumeza Mabuza, Head of Investigations, breaks down the regulator’s most assertive year yet. We unpack record‑high penalties, digital‑age misconduct from deepfakes to WhatsApp trading groups, rising debarments, strengthened court rulings, and the FSCA’s massive consumer education footprint. Phumeza explains what’s driving the crackdown and what South Africans should be most alert to in the year ahead. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Visa’s data reveals how FIFA World Cup 2026™ shifted SA spending — from a 72% surge in sports recreation to 76% spikes in live screening ahead of Bafana’s Round of 32 match. Zeyad Davids, Vice President, Head of Marketing Services, Central Europe, Middle East & Africa at Visa explains how digital payments enable connected commerce during major sporting moments — and what businesses can learn from the data. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
South Africa’s insurance gap has widened to R50.4 trillion. Capitec Life CEO Deepesh Desai explains why funeral cover dominates, why life cover lags at 19%, and how Capitec wants to change the national conversation. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
South Africa scores 3.70 among audiences who know it best — placing the nation second in the world and above the Love Mark threshold. Brand SA’s Olebogeng Mabala unpacks the 0.87‑point gap between familiar and unfamiliar audiences, the economic stakes of reputation, and why “South Africa converts” once people experience it. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
The Public Investment Corporation—custodian of more than R3 trillion in public money and the retirement savings of millions of South Africans—is once again in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. A whistleblower complaint, the controversial Lanseria Airport deal, the precautionary suspension of CEO Patrick Dlamini, board resignations and FSCA scrutiny. Tonight, we speak to Miyelani Mkhabela, CEO and Chief Economist at Antswisa Capital Partner , to unpack the structural rot at the PIC, the tension between shareholder oversight and board independence www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
The African Youth Survey 2026 reveals a rising generation more optimistic than at any time since the pandemic — but demanding delivery, accountability and economic dignity. Commissioner Ivor Ichikowitz unpacks why optimism has surged, why cost‑of‑living pressures dominate youth concerns, and why young Africans support democracy but reject Western models that don’t reflect African realities. He explores youth views on leadership, security, global alliances and the reforms they want most. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
South Africa’s Presidential Climate Commission, the Presidential Economic Advisory Council and the National Planning Commission have issued a joint advisory note on how the country should navigate its Just Energy Transition amid ongoing geopolitical shocks. Dipak Patel unpacks Africa’s vulnerability to imported fossil fuels, the urgency of accelerating renewable energy, the stubborn transmission infrastructure bottleneck, and how new energy technologies can insulate the country from global volatility. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Mantengu CEO Magen Naidoo shares how he is steering the company into a new era — blending mining and energy strategy, people‑centred leadership, fiscal discipline and operational transformation. With 24 years of experience, including 17 at Deloitte, Naidoo discusses culture, capability building, risk management and what it takes to build a modern African mining company. Kaya FM
RIIS energy and sustainability expert Sylvesters Okello unpacks PwC’s Ten Insights into 4IR in South African Mining. We explore CEO‑driven AI adoption, the sector’s poor data maturity, the massive digital skills gap, and why mining must embrace human‑centred technology. A powerful conversation on how AI can enhance safety, productivity and sustainability — without displacing people. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Kumba Iron Ore delivered R10.9bn EBITDA despite a challenging external environment, rising unit costs and softer production. CEO Mpumi Zikalala discusses maintaining a 35% margin, navigating logistics constraints, declaring a R7.90 interim dividend, and driving sustainability — from fatality‑free operations to renewable energy integration. A deep dive into leadership, cost discipline and the future of iron ore. Kaya FM
South Africa’s mining sector hit its first production contraction in five months, with May down 4.5% year‑on‑year. Minerals Council Economist André Lourens breaks down the drivers behind the slowdown — from Middle East tensions disrupting global oil flows to fading commodity price support. We unpack manganese and chrome’s surprising resilience, the pressure on coal, iron ore and diamonds, and the urgent structural reforms needed to stabilise the sector. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Platinum Hospitality Holdings is set to announce Anton Gillis as its new CEO — marking a major succession moment for one of SA’s leading family‑built hotel groups. Anton shares what the group is seeing on the ground across its national portfolio, where hospitality demand is growing, how operators are navigating profitability pressures, and what the next few years look like for the sector. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
South Africa’s consumer is flashing warning signs — and two retail updates have sharpened the picture. Cashbuild’s weak building materials demand and Mr Price’s shift toward value purchases reveal households under severe pressure. Market analyst The Finance Ghost unpacks how sticky inflation, high interest rates and the MPC’s cautious stance are filtering directly into retail behaviour, from shrinking basket sizes to delayed big‑ticket spending www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Novo Nordisk South Africa GM Sara Norcross explains the launch of the country’s only authorised copy of semaglutide, manufactured using the identical API, process and device as the originator — but at a more affordable price. We unpack what an authorised copy is, why SAHPRA registration matters, how the Acino partnership expands access, and what this means for millions of South Africans living with diabetes. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Women’s financial empowerment has the potential to drive economic growth, strengthen households and create lasting generational wealth. Kaya Biz speaks to Alexandra Nortier, Joint Head of Wealth Management at Investec Wealth & Investment International, about why Investec is backing the JSE SheInvests 2026 initiative, the barriers keeping women out of investing, and how financial education can help build confidence. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Momentum economist Tshiamo Masike unpacks the SARB’s decision to pause, the upside inflation surprise, and the global factors driving the MPC’s decision. We explore how rising oil prices, geopolitical tensions, and weakening consumer confidence shaped the call — and what households, businesses and markets should expect next. A sharp, data‑driven breakdown of one of the year’s most important economic decisions. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Six PIC directors have resigned, Treasury has begun steps to remove others, and whistleblower allegations of interference are mounting. Independent analyst Khaya Sithole breaks down the governance crisis unfolding at the Public Investment Corporation, what’s driving the board exodus, and what this means for the R2.5 trillion in assets the PIC manages — including public sector pensions. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
With inflation rising to 5.0%, fuel prices surging, and administered costs climbing, the SARB’s Monetary Policy Committee faces a tough call. Sanlam Investments economist Patrick Buthelezi unpacks today’s CPI print, the risks driving inflation, and what to expect from tomorrow’s MPC meeting. Essential listening for anyone watching interest rates and consumer pressure. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Nominal salaries are barely rising — but inflation isn’t slowing down. The latest PayInc Net Salary Index shows real salaries falling 3.6% year‑on‑year, hitting their lowest level in two years. Economist Elize Kruger explains why salary growth has stalled, how administered prices are eroding purchasing power, and what this means for consumer spending and economic growth in 2026. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
South Africa’s inflation rate climbed to 5% in June, driven by transport inflation at 12.7%, rising administered prices, and broad‑based cost pressures. Patrick Kelly from Statistics South Africa breaks down the latest CPI data and explains what’s behind the spike. A must‑listen for anyone tracking inflation, consumer pressure, and policy direction. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Discovery Life’s Harry Joffe breaks down one of 2026’s biggest estate‑planning risks: digital assets. With millions of South Africans holding crypto — and most without valid Wills — families face major challenges accessing wallets, private keys and offshore platforms. We unpack access risks, executor expertise, tax implications, and how to avoid becoming part of SA’s growing “lost crypto” problem. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Foord’s Linda Eedes, CFA, explains why oil markets are reacting faster than real‑world conditions. From tankers avoiding mined routes to insurers, refineries and global reserves struggling to normalise, we unpack the physical bottlenecks behind Brent’s volatility — and what this means for inflation, inventories and South African businesses in the months ahead. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
DebtBusters’ Executive Head Benay Sager joins us to unpack the fifth annual Money‑Stress Tracker — revealing a sharp reversal in financial wellbeing across youth, women and lower‑income households. We explore rising inflation, electricity costs, debt burdens, provincial stress hotspots, and the resilience South Africans continue to show despite mounting pressure. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
FNB Senior Economist Siphamandla Mkhwanazi unpacks the latest 2Q26 Commercial Property Insights — revealing an uneven recovery across office, retail and industrial segments. He explains why industrial property remains the standout performer, why office continues its long structural adjustment, and how moderating inflation and future rate cuts could reshape investment appetite into 2027. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
The JSE SheInvests platform has become one of South Africa's leading initiatives dedicated to advancing women's financial literacy and investment confidence. SheInvests empowers women through accessible financial education, practical investment insights, and meaningful conversations that inspire long-term wealth creation. As the platform has grown into a nationally recognised movement, it continues to create opportunities for women to connect, learn from industry leaders, and participate more confidently in the country's financial markets. For more we speak to JSE's Chief Marketing and Corporate Affairs Officer, Vuyo Lee… www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
With the July MPC meeting looming, Bank of America economist Tatonga Rusike unpacks South Africa’s inflation trajectory, rising expectations, and the tight call facing the Reserve Bank. He explains why the case for a rate hike and the case for a hold are both compelling — and what the decision means for households, businesses and the broader policy path into 2027. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
South Africa’s automotive sector is entering a defining six‑month stretch — one that Ford Africa President Neale Hill says will determine whether the industry engineers its growth or manages its decline. From municipal stability and regulatory clarity to global competition and household affordability, Hill outlines the five pressure points that will shape South Africa’s industrial future. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Transport Economy: Maphefo Anno-Frempong discussed how skills development, innovation and leadership are preparing South Africa's transport sector for future economic growth and transformation. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Property Market: Hayley Ivins-Downes unpacked why fewer young South Africans are buying homes and explored the affordability challenges and changing trends shaping the country's property market. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Top Story: Advocate Mtho Xulu discussed the launch of the Namibia–South Africa Business Council and how it aims to strengthen regional trade, investment and economic cooperation. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Izak Odendaal from Old Mutual Investments unpacks the global economy’s “crosscurrents of war and technology.” From oil price shocks to trillion‑dollar AI capex, rising leverage in tech supply chains, frothy market valuations, and the IMF’s subdued growth outlook — this episode helps investors navigate hype, fear, and everything in between. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Judge Dennis Davis breaks down the Companies Tribunal’s newly extended jurisdiction to arbitrate company disputes. Learn how businesses can resolve governance issues, director fallouts, and CIPC disagreements quickly, fairly, and for free — and why this matters for SMMEs navigating South Africa’s complex commercial landscape. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Agbiz Chief Economist Wandile Sihlobo unpacks the real state of South Africa’s agricultural economy: record grain and oilseed output, strong fruit exports, looming El Niño threats, livestock disease management, and rising regional trade tensions. A comprehensive outlook on the sector that feeds the nation — and drives billions in economic activity. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
South Africa’s youth still want financial independence, homeownership, stability and long‑term security — but the path is tougher. Standard Bank’s Tshiamo Molanda breaks down the latest Youth Barometer findings, showing how young people are adapting rather than lowering their ambitions. From strategic credit use and rising first‑time homeownership to digital‑first payments, side hustles and value‑driven car buying, this episode explores how Gen Z is navigating adulthood in a changing economy. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
DataEQ analysed more than 79,000 customer complaints across Facebook, X and Hellopeter — and the results are stark: every ISP in South Africa recorded negative operational sentiment. Managing Director Sarah Lamb unpacks why service channels are failing, why billing errors and cancellations are spiralling, and how outages turn into multi‑week frustrations. She also explains how AI could resolve nearly a third of ISP issues at first contact www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Africa is producing more blockchain innovation than ever — but attracting less investment. In this panel discussion, Absa’s Rob Downes explains why Africa may be “the world’s most mispriced blockchain market,” while Bitexen SA CEO Mark Diuga breaks down how tokenisation and trusted digital infrastructure could reshape access to real‑world assets. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Old Mutual shares insights from its latest claims data: R14.6 billion paid out in 2025, a 94% payout ratio, and a near‑R100 billion milestone since 2002. Severe illness claims remain dominated by the Big 4 — cancer, heart attacks, strokes and CABG — while disability claimants are getting younger and lifestyle‑related illnesses rise sharply. We speak to Sharvanie Sooriah, Snr Regional Product Marketing Specialist at Old Mutual www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Moore Infinity’s Danie Dörfling explains why South Africa recorded the highest Thrive Index score globally — 47.6 — outperforming 16 other economies. Despite geopolitical instability, rising costs and labour market fragility, SA mid‑market firms show strong business performance, driven by digital transformation, productivity gains and improving macro conditions. Danie breaks down global trends, cost pressures, investment intentions and the opportunities ahead for SA’s resilient mid‑market sector. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Eighty20’s Andrew Fulton unpacks South Africa’s chocolate economy. Consumption has dropped from 50% to 44% weekly, yet chocolate remains a national favourite. Lunch Bar overtakes Bar‑One, Clicks slabs surge 124% YoY, and demographic splits reveal sharply different preferences across gender and generations. Fulton also explains how cocoa supply shocks — including drought in West Africa and prices hitting $10,000/ton — are reshaping pricing, product sizes and manufacturer strategies. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
MiWay’s Sherry Sibeko joins Kaya Biz to unpack why June is the ideal moment for households to reassess their insurance cover. She explains how small policy adjustments, clearer understanding of exclusions, and aligning cover to current circumstances can protect financial progress and strengthen resilience for the rest of 2026. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
PSG Insure CEO Cedric Masondo breaks down the top insurance risks shaping 2026 — from rising catastrophe losses and higher vehicle write‑offs to claims inflation, ageing infrastructure and low cyber cover uptake. He also outlines the risks South Africans should prepare for in the second half of the year, and the practical steps households and businesses can take to avoid under‑coverage. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Shell will sell its equity interest in Shell Downstream South Africa to ADNOC Distribution, with completion expected in 2027. Country Chair Aluwani Museisi discusses what the deal means for customers, employees, the Shell brand, and the future of South Africa’s fuel and convenience retail landscape. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
New SATC research shows South Africa’s national roads are becoming crime corridors, with hotspots for hijackings, smash‑and‑grabs, shootings and cash‑in‑transit robberies. Serialong Kumalo explains how crime is now a transport safety issue — and why infrastructure, policing and mobility planning must adapt. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Fuel price increases, global uncertainty and rising operating costs are pushing SMEs into survival mode. Jeremy Lang from Business Partners Limited discusses the latest SME Confidence Index, revealing falling confidence levels, proactive cost‑cutting, supply chain adjustments and the support mechanisms SMEs need most right now. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
The PayInc Economic Index fell another 0.9% in June, reaching its lowest level since November. Independent Economist Elize Kruger explains how inflation, fuel prices, global uncertainty and mixed PMI signals are weighing on South Africa’s economic momentum — and why electronic payments remain a rare bright spot. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Caroline Bergmann, Senior Associate at Pinsent Masons, breaks down the Competition Commission’s Franchise Market Inquiry — a structural intervention into one of SA’s most powerful sectors. We explore franchisee leverage, lender exposure, franchisor compliance, and lessons from past market inquiries shaping what comes next. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
ICB's Barbara Cawcutt explains South Africa’s AI paradox: world‑leading adoption but deep digital exclusion. With only 16% computer ownership, low digital literacy, and thousands of schools without computer centres, we explore why capability — not connectivity — is the real barrier to participation in the AI economy. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Ricardo Smith, CIO at Absa Investments, unpacks South Africa’s sixth straight quarter of GDP growth — and why households aren’t feeling it. We explore flat consumption, weak investment, rising fuel prices, the SARB’s rate hike, and what all of this means for income, confidence and debt exposure heading into Q2. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Hollywoodbets’ Devin Heffer takes us inside the extraordinary revival of South African horse racing. The Hollywoodbets Durban July is now edging toward a R1 billion economic contribution — a dramatic turnaround for an industry nearly wiped out by the Steinhoff fallout and the pandemic. Heffer explains how the Durban July has become a symbol of renewed confidence, growth and economic impact. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
NADA Chairperson Brandon Cohen unpacks South Africa’s remarkable new‑vehicle market performance. We explore why consumers are returning to trusted brands, how affordability pressures shape buying behaviour, the rise of Chinese manufacturers, and the booming demand for used commercial vehicles. Cohen also outlines the risks and opportunities for H2 2026 www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
PwC Chief Economist Lullu Krugel unpacks South Africa’s slowing but still‑intact recovery as the country enters H2 2026. We explore the cost‑push shock from Middle East tensions, the rand’s volatility, rising input costs, and the implications of a 7% repo rate. Krugel breaks down sector winners and laggards, inflation risks, and the key swing factors shaping the next six months www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Absa Economist Sello Sekele unpacks June’s PMI decline from 50.8 to 47.3, the impact of easing Middle East tensions on fuel prices, the sharp drop in purchasing price pressures, weakening demand as buyers delay purchases, and why employment and inventories point to continued strain in South Africa’s manufacturing sector. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Cybercriminals are exploiting tax‑season anxiety with AI‑generated phishing emails, cloned SARS websites, WhatsApp spoofing and payroll‑related scams. Lucas Molefe explains why 2026 is a high‑risk year, how scammers mimic official communication, and the digital hygiene habits that protect your identity and refund. Essential listening for every taxpayer. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
SARS Commissioner Dr. Johnstone Makhubu unpacks the 2026 Filing Season, from the phased rollout and enhanced risk engine to the rise of auto‑assessments. He explains how taxpayers should interpret assessments, and navigate a more targeted audit environment. A clear, practical guide to filing smarter this year. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
Jonathan Kohler exposes the “second bond” — the monthly bill homeowners face before paying their actual home loan. From R4,000–R7,000 in Johannesburg and Cape Town to over R11,500 in Umhlanga, we unpack levies, utilities, maintenance, special levies and municipal tariffs that determine true affordability. A must‑listen for buyers, investors and tenants navigating SA’s property market. Kaya FM
South Africa’s new vehicle market delivered a standout June performance despite inflation, fuel price spikes and weaker consumer confidence. Dr Paulina Mamogobo, Chief Economist at NAAMSA, breaks down the domestic resilience, export pressures, shifting macroeconomic signals, and what these trends mean for the industry heading into the second half of 2026. www.kaya959.co.za · Kaya FM
South Africa faces three simultaneous migration forces: regional labour inflows, skilled emigration, and massive internal movement toward urban edges. Andrew Fulton breaks down the real numbers behind immigration, emigration and interprovincial migration Kaya FM
Anti‑immigration protests highlight deep governance failures, rising public frustration and the erosion of state authority. Professor William Gumede unpacks the political economy behind the unrest, the risks to social cohesion, the impact on investor confidence, and why South Africa urgently needs a coordinated, evidence‑based migration strategy. Kaya FM
GDP shows modest growth, QES shows formal job trends, and the QLFS reveals household‑level pressure. Together, they paint a complex picture of South Africa’s labour market. Statistician‑General Risenga Maluleke explains how these data sets interlink, where they diverge, and what they reveal about job creation. Kaya FM
South Africa’s tax season opens with new rules, new risks and widespread misconceptions. From two‑pot withdrawals taxed at marginal rates to multiple IRP5s, provisional tax surprises and auto‑assessment pitfalls. Stian De Witt from NMG Benefits explains the hidden traps catching ordinary South Africans Kaya FM
PwC’s Mine 2026 report shows miners posting record profits — yet facing unprecedented structural pressures. Energy Utilities and Resource Assurance Partner Vuyiswa Khutlang breaks down the three imperatives reshaping mining: policy stability, capital mobilisation, and technology‑driven productivity. We explore copper’s surge, coal’s decline, selective M&A, and why geology alone no longer determines who captures value. Kaya FM
The Middle East ceasefire may hold — or unravel. Either way, Africa is already feeling the tremors. Political analyst Jervin Naidoo maps how geopolitical shocks strain fiscal balances, fuel inflation, election stability, capital flows and sovereign risk premiums across the continent. A deep dive into Africa’s political vulnerability and the lingering effects expected into 2027. Kaya FM
E Squared’s 2025 Impact Report showcases a powerful model of patient capital, responsible entrepreneurship and transformation-driven investing. CEO Gladwyn Leeuw explains the shift to “lives meaningfully improved", the pipeline‑to‑scale approach, backing Black and female founders, and building businesses that endure — all while delivering commercial and social returns. Kaya FM
BrandMapp’s latest data reveals a youth audience unlike any other in South Africa — ambitious, financially upward‑moving, news‑engaged and career‑focused. Brandon de Kock, Director of Storytelling at BrandMapp, unpacks who the Kaya youth really are, how they consume news, what motivates them, and why they represent the next wave of emerging professionals. A Youth Month conversation filled with insight and optimism. Kaya FM
Ekurhuleni’s finances — and its ability to deliver reliable services — depend on a strong partnership with residents. MMC for Finance Alderman Jongizizwe Dlabathi explains how the City’s Siyakhokha platform is transforming municipal payments through convenience, security and digital efficiency. From registering online to logging queries and making payment arrangements, this conversation breaks down why “When we pay, we grow.” Kaya FM
African Bank has entered a new chapter shifting from years of acquisitive expansion to a disciplined phase of consolidation. Interim Group CEO Zweli Manyathi breaks down the R624m loss, the credit environment, cost‑to‑income pressures, and the bank’s strategy to unlock value from its diversified platform. Kaya FM
South Africa’s most referenced retirement study reveals a widening gap between when people believe they should start planning and when they actually do. CEO of Sanlam Corporate, Kanyisa Mkhize, unpacks the 2026 Sanlam Benchmark findings — from delayed planning and rising debt among retirees to the behavioural risks shaping household financial resilience. Kaya FM
Auto Konek founder Siphiwe Dlamini shares his entrepreneurial journey from humble beginnings to becoming a trusted service provider in the taxi and commercial vehicle sector. We explore how he broke into a notoriously tough market, the operational realities of supporting taxi owners, the cost pressures operators face, and the lessons he’s learned building a township‑rooted automotive business. A powerful conversation for aspiring entrepreneurs Kaya FM
Economist Dr Roelof Botha unpacks the latest Afrimat Construction Index, which shows a marginal 0.3% year‑on‑year rise — but with deeper signals of stabilisation in non‑residential buildings and construction works. We discuss employment resilience, tender activity surges, pressure points in materials and hardware, and what the data says about capital formation, confidence and the cost of money. A balanced, data‑driven look at whether the sector is finally turning a corner. Kaya FM
Gautrain Management Agency CEO Tshepo Kgobe joins us in studio to reflect on 16 years of the rapid rail system that has carried more than 216 million passengers. We go beyond the milestone to unpack operational excellence, affordability, and the future of Gauteng mobility. A deep dive into what it takes to run an 80‑km network — and why Gautrain must “earn its relevance every day" Kaya FM
Cars.co.za’s Alan Quinn unpacks the digital trends shaping South Africa’s car market — from value migration and tax‑driven pricing distortions to the rise of Chinese and Indian brands. We explore what consumers really need to know when navigating one of the most complex buying environments in years. Kaya FM
Ford’s Kevin Heunis discusses the growing shortage of critical technical skills, the need for vocational pathways, and how programmes like Ford’s Autotechnician Apprentice Scholarship are preparing young people for a tech‑driven automotive future. A Youth Month conversation on skills, opportunity and industry readiness. Kaya FM
Absa’s Fulufhelo Mandane reveals new data showing a surge in new‑car purchases among young South Africans, despite affordability pressures. We explore shifting preferences, longer repayment terms, and the rise of value‑driven models reshaping the future of SA’s vehicle market. Kaya FM
Wesbank Economist Thanda Sithole unpacks the sharp fall in consumer confidence, the impact of soaring fuel prices, and how these pressures are reshaping South Africa’s vehicle‑buying behaviour. From delayed purchases to stretched finance terms, we explore what lies ahead for the auto sector in 2026. Kaya FM
Old Mutual’s Ndumiso Zulu and Lula’s Clinton Thomas unpack the real funding landscape for South African SMEs — from cash‑flow pressure to investment readiness, construction‑sector bottlenecks, and why only 6% of SMEs access formal finance. They explore how blended support, alternative lending models, and faster payment cycles can unlock the next wave of entrepreneurial growth. Kaya FM
Michanic founder Lesetja Dikgale shares how a simple moment of frustration with a delayed car repair sparked a national mobile‑mechanic platform. He unpacks the early mistakes, the operational rebuild, the financial model overhaul, and how the Impact Finance Network helped him become investor‑ready. A masterclass in starting lean, scaling smart, and building systems that last. Kaya FM
Gift Lubele closes the SMME Playbook with a forward‑looking conversation on tech‑enabled entrepreneurship. From building Green Riders and MyWaste to leading AI strategy at Yiedi, Gift shares lessons on starting lean, scaling impact, using AI responsibly, and the skills tomorrow’s founders will need to thrive. Kaya FM
Prof. Sampson Mamphweli, the Head of the Energy Secretariat at the South African National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI), joins us for his view on South Africa's future. He unpacks policy and project-based initiatives that came to the fore on the agenda at this week's Africa Energy Forum. Kaya FM
From Uganda’s first independent transmission project to South Africa’s R440bn grid expansion plan, AEF 2026 showcased a continent shifting toward private‑sector participation and distributed energy. Absa CIB's Nikhil Kasiram breaks down the biggest trends shaping Africa’s power future. Kaya FM
BrightRock celebrates 15 years of disrupting the life insurance industry with its needs‑matched model. CEO Suzanne Stevens reflects on her leadership journey, the company’s growth to over 12% market share, and the future of life insurance in a rapidly changing consumer landscape. Kaya FM
Youth Month shines a spotlight on the financial pressures facing young South Africans. Investec's Johan Loubser explores how unemployment, decision fatigue and uncertainty delay key financial decisions — and why postponing saving or investing can be the most expensive mistake a young person makes. Kaya FM
The US–Iran peace agreement has eased oil prices and reopened the Strait of Hormuz — but global shipping remains far from normal. Dr Ernst van Biljon from IMM Graduate School explains why vessel backlogs, insurer caution and Africa’s own structural constraints mean supply chain pressures are far from over. Kaya FM
South Africa’s retail recovery is being quietly undermined by a surge in online and sports betting. Anchor Capital's Stephan Erasmus unpacks the sixfold rise in gambling revenue, the impact on discretionary spending, and why retailers say gambling is now a bigger threat than global e‑commerce platforms. Kaya FM
Urban Blend Interiors founder Bulelwa Jordan‑Tati joins Ekasinomics to discuss the business of interior design, the rise of young creative entrepreneurs, and how she built a distinctive, story‑driven design studio in a competitive but growing industry. A Youth Month conversation on resilience, creativity, and building a brand from the ground up. Kaya FM
Vukile Property Fund posted a robust FY26 performance, with 9.3% growth in FFO and dividends, strong retail metrics in South Africa, and accelerated expansion across Spain, Portugal, and Italy. CEO Laurence Rapp breaks down the drivers behind the outperformance, the strategic entry into Italy, capital raising momentum, and the outlook for FY27. Kaya FM
Premier Group CEO Kobus Gertenbach unpacks a transformational year for the company, marked by strong revenue and EBITDA growth, the R6.5bn acquisition of RFG Holdings, the commissioning of the Aeroton bakery, and a total dividend of 341 cents per share. We explore the drivers behind the performance, commodity price dynamics, capex priorities, and the outlook for FY27. Kaya FM
In this Youth Month edition of Inside Your Business, we spotlight 29‑year‑old Lerato Gumede, who transformed Impact Branding from a loss‑making operation into a profitable, job‑creating enterprise. Joined by Business Partners Limited’s Gugu Mjadu, we explore the realities of youth entrepreneurship, the support structures that matter, and what it takes to build a sustainable business in South Africa today. Kaya FM
South Africa’s inflation edged up to 4.5% in May, driven by fuel and housing costs. Nedbank economist Isaac Matshego unpacks the numbers, the pressure points for households, and what this means for interest rates, regional inflation differences, and the economic outlook for the rest of 2026. Kaya FM
South Africa’s youth economy is bursting with innovation — and few stories capture that energy better than that of Kamogelo Selepe. At just 22, she built an AI platform that predicts consumer behaviour. Kamogelo is the CEO and Founder of ArcaneEdge, an AI‑powered marketing technology company operating at the intersection of artificial intelligence, consumer behaviour and digital strategy. Her flagship innovation, the Digital Doppelgänger Platform, among other things has propelled her to award-winning entrepreneur status. She joins today's Tech & Innovation feature to unpack her journey, her technology, and her message for South Africa’s young entrepreneurs. Kaya FM
With youth unemployment at 61%, Afrika Tikkun argues that South Africa is intervening far too late. Afrika Tikkun’s Marc Lubner explains why the Cradle‑to‑Career 360° model—from early childhood to job placement—is the missing link in solving the jobs crisis. A powerful conversation on early intervention, soft skills, agripreneurship, and rethinking learnerships. Kaya FM
The FNB/BER Building Confidence Index drops to 38 as rising internal costs, Middle East conflict pressures, and project postponements hit the sector hard. FNB Senior Economist Siphamandla Mkhwanazi unpacks the collapse in subcontractor confidence, the reversal in non‑residential activity, and whether early‑pipeline indicators offer any hope for recovery. Kaya FM
The Q2 Absa Manufacturing Survey shows confidence rising even as business conditions deteriorate sharply. Sachin Chanderdhev, Sector Specialist for Manufacturing at Absa Business Banking. breaks down the paradox: record raw material spikes, shipping disruptions, fuel costs, and the 8.76% electricity tariff increase—and how manufacturers are still managing to adapt, negotiate prices, and run leaner operations. Kaya FM
The inaugural Franc Wealth Index reveals a surprising truth: South African women outperform men financially — not because they earn more, but because they behave differently. Franc Co-Founder Sebastian Patel unpacks the behavioural edge, the confidence gap, and why consistency beats cleverness every time. Kaya FM
A groundbreaking new report reveals that actual black ownership in the JSE Top 60 sits at just R255 billion—far below public perception. Monde Ndlovu, Managing Director of the Black Management Forum (BMF), joins us to unpack the myths, the measurement failures, the rise of broad‑based schemes, and the structural barriers still holding transformation back. A sharp, evidence‑driven conversation on what the next era of empowerment must look like. Kaya FM
Alexforbes delivered a resilient FY26 performance, with AuM and administration up 22% to R733 billion, a steady dividend, and 91% of revenue anchored in South Africa. CEO Dawie de Villiers breaks down solvency strength, client behaviour, digital transformation, and where the group sees growth in FY27 across retirement, healthcare and investments. Kaya FM
South Africa’s pet sector is booming — now worth R10.4bn and growing at nearly 16%. Trade Intelligence’s Andrea Slabber and Petshop Science’s Trevor Paxton unpack the emotional drivers behind pet spending, the tension between premiumisation and affordability, the rise of specialist pet retail, and what pet baskets reveal about middle‑class financial resilience. Kaya FM
Intellectual property is no longer a legal afterthought — it’s a commercial asset. RNMS Inc. founder Rachel Sikwane explains how trademarks, copyright, patents and trade secrets drive competitive advantage; the biggest mistakes businesses make; how to commercialise IP for revenue; and why African market expansion demands proactive IP protection. Kaya FM
SPAR Group CEO Reeza Isaacs discusses the retailer’s interim results, with revenue up 3.6% but operating profit down sharply due to KZN distribution challenges, Black Friday overspend, and higher debtor costs. He outlines the group's turnaround priorities—from commercial transformation to retailer loyalty, debt reduction, and restoring margins—and what a “materially improved H2” should look like. Kaya FM
Cars.co.za Chief Product & Innovation Officer Alan Quinn unpacks the dramatic 430% year‑on‑year surge in plug‑in hybrid (PHEV) sales in Q1 2026. He explains what’s driving the shift—from fuel price pain to range‑anxiety relief—and what it means for dealers, resale values, and charging infrastructure. A practical guide for consumers choosing between PHEV, BEV, or ICE in today’s market. Kaya FM
Discovery Health CEO Dr. Ron Whelan unpacks the new HealthTrend26 Report, drawing on over 60 million life‑years of data. He explains how earlier diagnosis, behaviour change, and improved treatment pathways have driven a 5.6% decline in mortality over the past decade. We explore chronic disease trends, mental‑health pressures, affordability concerns, and what these findings mean for employers and South Africa’s broader health‑care system. Kaya FM
Independent economist Elize Kruger breaks down the sharp 2.1% month-on-month drop in the PayInc Economic Index—the lowest reading since November. She unpacks how fuel price spikes, rising inflation forecasts, weakening confidence, and a 25bps rate hike are squeezing households and businesses. We also explore why the new vehicle market remains a surprising outlier and what South Africans should brace for in the months ahead. Kaya FM
Eskom unveils a new strategy aimed at accelerating utility‑scale renewable energy solutions. Group Executive for Renewables, Rivoningo Mnisi, outlines what this means for investors, developers, and South Africa’s energy future. Kaya FM
Liberty’s 2025 claim stats show cancer dominating claims, disability payouts rising nearly 20%, and a worrying increase in young adult deaths. Tom Crotty, Liberty Head of Technical Risk Marketing, explains the health trends, the insurance gap, and how technology is reshaping claims processing. Kaya FM
South Africa’s credit health continues to deteriorate: 56 million open loans, 35% in arrears, and overdue balances up 13.9% year‑on‑year. Andrew Fulton from Eighty20 breaks down the pressure points—from youth defaults to middle‑class strain—and what lenders and consumers should expect next. Kaya FM
South Africa’s economy expanded by 0.5% in Q1 2026, marking a second consecutive quarter of modest growth. Dr. Bokang Vumbukani‑Lepolesa from Stats SA breaks down the sectors behind the uptick, from strong gains in agriculture and finance to continued pressure in manufacturing, and explains what the latest data signals for the rest of the year. Kaya FM
Araxi Limited—formerly Capital Appreciation—reported a mixed set of results for the year ended 31 March 2026. While revenue and headline earnings declined, the company highlighted strong operational progress, improved cash generation, growing recurring income, and positive momentum in its software business. We spoke to CEO Brad Sacks for more. Kaya FM
New Youth Month data shows that over half of Paymenow’s earned‑wage access activity comes from South Africans under 35. Paymenow's Denise Neethling explains how young workers are using small top-ups to manage cash flow, why transport and food dominate spending, and how financial-education tools and savings features are reshaping youth financial behaviour. Kaya FM
Omnia’s FY26 results show strong momentum across mining, agriculture, and chemicals, with operating profit up 28% and margins rising to 9%. CEO Seelan Gobalsamy discusses the group’s cash strength, international expansion, dividend strategy, and how Omnia is navigating global volatility while driving sustainable growth. Kaya FM
Buy Now Pay Later is no longer niche — it’s a gateway to financial inclusion. Dean Hyde from PayJustNow unpacks new research showing that 37% of BNPL users are new‑to‑credit or underserved, why BNPL users often outperform traditional borrowers on repayment, and how BNPL is evolving into a pathway to responsible credit participation. Kaya FM
PPC has delivered its second consecutive year of turnaround gains, with EBITDA up 31% and margins breaking above 20%. CEO Matias Cardarelli unpacks the drivers behind the performance, the R3.1 billion RK3 megaproject, Zimbabwe’s record dividend payout, and what FY26 signals for the future of South Africa’s cement industry. Kaya FM
For the first time in 40 years, a Chinese brand has taken South Africa’s top automotive honour. The Jetour T2 beat 55 contenders to win Car of the Year 2026. Vice President for Jetour South Africa Nic Campbell explains what set the T2 apart, why Chinese brands are rising so fast, and what Jetour’s explosive growth means for the local market. Kaya FM
South Africans spent R173.6 billion on FMCG goods in Q1 — with volumes up 9.1%. Snacks, beverages and tobacco surged, while baby food and care declined. NIQ’s Lané Klopper breaks down the drivers behind the rebound, the rise of traditional trade, and why inflation may tighten the screws again in the second half of 2026 Kaya FM
JSE Capital Markets Chief Helina Andhee breaks down the significance of Canal+’s new listing and what it reveals about South Africa’s evolving listings environment. We explore liquidity, innovation, delistings vs. new entrants, and the JSE’s strategy to attract global issuers in a competitive capital markets landscape. Kaya FM
TransUnion Africa CEO Lee Naik analyzes how rising rates, fuel spikes, and deepening credit stress are reshaping household finances. We unpack a 14% collapse in fuel buying power, soaring non‑bank loan delinquencies, and why the new withdrawal system may offer less relief than expected. A data‑driven guide to absorb, adapt, or protect. Kaya FM
BRICS Business Council’s Advocate Mtho Xulu joins us to discuss South Africa’s widening BRICS trade deficit, the urgent need to shift from raw exports to value-added manufacturing, and whether BRICS-Plus markets can help offset domestic demand weakness. A strategic look at SA’s place in a rapidly shifting global trade environment. Kaya FM
RMB macroeconomist Keabetswe Mojapelo unpacks the sharp drop in the RMB/BER Business Confidence Index as oil shocks, rate-hike fears, and global tensions weigh on SA firms. We explore sector‑by‑sector pressure points, why businesses are cautious rather than pessimistic, and what needs to shift for confidence to recover in the second half of 2026. Kaya FM
4Sight Holdings is at the forefront of AI‑powered enterprise transformation, with FY26 revenue up 16.3%. CEO Tertius Zitzke unpacks the rise of intelligent automation, the convergence of OT and IT, WhatsApp‑based enterprise tools, and the technologies that will shape South African businesses over the next five years. Kaya FM
After months of improving sentiment, the latest rate hike raises questions about affordability and market momentum. CEO Herschel Jawitz explains the impact on buyers, sellers, investors and tenants — and why long‑term fundamentals remain positive despite short‑term pressure. Kaya FM
King Shaka International Airport celebrates 16 years as KZN’s aviation gateway, with passenger volumes rebounding to 92% of pre‑pandemic levels. Sanjeev Gareeb discusses operational milestones, new route development, infrastructure upgrades, and what travellers can expect in the years ahead. Kaya FM
Discovery Insure’s latest data shows motorists are driving less, buying less fuel, and changing travel habits as fuel prices surge. CEO Robert Attwell explains the behavioural shifts, why diesel drivers cut back the most, and the fuel‑saving habits that can help households stretch their budgets. Kaya FM
South Africa’s new vehicle market continues to defy economic pressure, with May sales reaching their highest level since 2013. NADA Vice‑Chairperson Thembinkosi Pantsi breaks down consumer trends, rising interest in hybrids and EVs, and why mobility remains a priority even in a high‑cost environment. Kaya FM
Telkom delivered a strong set of full‑year results, with data revenue rising to R26.6bn and HEPS up 21.5%. CEO Serame Taukobong unpacks mobile momentum, fibre growth, improved cash generation, and the Group’s revised dividend policy in a tough economic environment. Kaya FM
Momentum Life Insurance’s Joretha Bothma breaks down the insurer’s 2025 claims data — from the surge in critical illness claims to the rise in disability and income protection payouts. She highlights the protection gap, the risks facing younger South Africans, and why holistic financial planning is becoming essential in a world where more people survive serious illness but face long‑term financial strain. Kaya FM
Absa Economist Sello Sekele analyses the latest PMI print, revealing weakening demand, a sharp drop in business activity, and rising inventories. He explains what’s driving the slowdown, the risks for Q2 GDP, and whether South Africa’s manufacturing sector can regain momentum in 2026. Kaya FM
Dis‑Chem CEO Rui Morais unpacks a results set showing strong revenue growth but pressure on headline earnings. He explains the Group’s R445m investment into its healthcare ecosystem, the performance of Better Rewards, margin pressure in dispensary and wholesale, and how the Store of the Future will reshape customer experience and profitability. Kaya FM
Beef inflation has surged nearly 30% year‑on‑year, driven by South Africa’s worst foot‑and‑mouth outbreak in decades. Eighty20’s Andrew Fulton breaks down why burger ingredients are rising faster than inflation, why a Big Mac now costs R70.90, and how consumers are shifting toward cheaper proteins like chicken. We also explore fast‑food visitation trends, brand winners and losers, and what the data says about SA’s eating‑out economy. Kaya FM
The Reserve Bank has raised the repo rate by 25bps to 7% as fuel inflation spikes and global risks intensify. PwC’s Lullu Krugel and Momentum’s Tshiamo Masike join our panel to unpack the split MPC vote, the downgrade to SA’s growth outlook, and the rising threat of imported inflation. We also explore the impact on households, business confidence, and whether more tightening is on the cards for 2026. Kaya FM
Life Healthcare delivered a resilient first‑half performance, with revenue up 2.4%, EBITDA up 5.2% and operating profit rising 8.4%. CEO Peter Wharton‑Hood joins Kaya Biz to unpack the recovery in hospital occupancy, the strong momentum in complementary services, and the group’s major expansion projects — including new beds, PET‑CT sites and the 140‑bed Paarl Valley Hospital. We also explore the FY2026 outlook and the biggest risks facing the healthcare sector. Kaya FM
As extreme weather events intensify, South Africa is exploring new ways to protect farmers, SMEs and households. SAIA’s Pamela Ramagaga explains how index insurance — or parametric insurance — could offer fast, affordable payouts when climate thresholds are breached. We discuss the Minister of Agriculture’s proposal for a SASRIA‑type scheme, regulatory progress, sustainability questions, and what a national climate‑risk insurance model could look like. A must‑listen for anyone concerned about resilience and recovery in a warming world Kaya FM
With the SARB’s MPC decision just hours away, Anchor Capital CIO Nolan Wapenaar breaks down what to expect — and why the Bank remains laser‑focused on inflation expectations and credibility. We explore the “higher‑for‑longer” rate environment, the impact on households and businesses, and how investors should position themselves. Nolan also shares insights from Anchor’s latest Navigator report, including deploying dry powder, the rise of alternatives, and the case for offshore diversification. Kaya FM
South Africans are earning less in real terms — and the pressure is mounting. Independent economist Elize Kruger joins Kaya Biz to unpack the latest PayInc Net Salary Index, showing a drop in both nominal and real take‑home pay. We explore the impact of fuel price spikes, rising inflation, job losses, and why households are feeling the pinch despite above‑inflation salary increases in some sectors. A clear, data‑driven look at what’s happening in the labour market — and what it means for 2026. Kaya FM
DebtBusters’ Benay Sager unpacks the latest Debt Index, revealing that consumers now need 64% of their income to service debt—and top earners require 101%, starting each month underwater. We explore rising unsecured borrowing, cost‑of‑living strain, and why younger South Africans are entering debt distress earlier than ever. Kaya FM
Aviation analyst Guy Leitch breaks down the National Consumer Tribunal case that could reshape South Africa’s airline industry. We examine the economics of overbooking, the potential fallout for ticket prices, and whether stricter regulation could destabilize a recovering aviation sector. Kaya FM
Zeda CEO Ramasela Ganda unpacks a solid interim performance marked by revenue growth, disciplined capital allocation, and a 21%+ ROE. We discuss leasing strength, used‑car demand, the impact of Chinese models on pricing, and how technology is reshaping mobility in South Africa. Kaya FM
Allan Gray’s Nshalati Hlungwane explores what history’s great technological revolutions can teach us about today’s AI boom. From railways to telecoms, we unpack why early winners often stumble, how over‑investment cycles form, and why disciplined, long‑term thinking still matters. Kaya FM
The Absa Homeowner Sentiment Index hit an all‑time high of 88%—with — with buying, selling, investing, and renovating sentiment all rising. Tshepo Mashashane unpacks why South Africans remain so confident in property, what’s driving younger buyers, the rise of short‑term rental investment, and the key trends shaping homeownership in 2026. Kaya FM
Pick n Pay’s FY26 results reveal a tale of two businesses: Boxer surges with 12.3% turnover growth, while the Pick n Pay segment posts a deeper trading loss. CEO Sean Summers discusses the turnaround plan, store resets, labor restructuring, the Boxer share sale, and how the retailer is navigating shifting consumer behavior and rising cost pressures. Kaya FM
On Africa Day, we explore how the African Continental Free Trade Area could reshape the continent’s economic future. Jason Hamilton breaks down why AfCFTA is Africa’s most important growth lever, how global turmoil is creating new trade openings, and what SMEs, manufacturers, and tech innovators can gain from a fully integrated African market. Kaya FM
In this edition of Ekasinomics, Ndia Magadagela, CEO and co-founder of Everlectric, shares how her Pretoria-based company is powering Woolworths’ electric delivery fleet and scaling the model nationwide. From overcoming load-shedding and charging infrastructure challenges to rolling out South Africa’s first solar-powered refrigerated EV fleet, Everlectric is proving that clean, commercial electric mobility is possible and profitable. Kaya FM
In this conversation we speak to Mike Brown, Managing Director of ETFSA and one of South Africa’s pioneers in the ETF market. Mike breaks down retirement annuities (RAs) and explains how these long-term savings tools are evolving in the world of Exchange Traded Funds.
Discover how RAs can be a tax-efficient, flexible, and secure way to invest for retirement, and learn how ETFSA’s RA allows you to harness the low cost, simplicity, and diversification of ETFs to build your future wealth, no excuses required.
If you’ve ever wondered how to start saving for retirement without feeling overwhelmed, this conversation is your roadmap to smarter, modern investing. Kaya FM
Even when employees are fairly paid, financial stress can quietly undermine productivity, engagement, and morale. In this conversation Craig Raath, Group Director of Business Development at 21st Century, unpacks the hidden costs of financial strain in South African workplaces and shares practical strategies employers can implement to support their teams.
From Earned Wage Access to payroll-linked savings and just-in-time financial coaching, Craig explains how employers can build resilience and reduce stress without simply raising salaries. Learn how these interventions not only improve employee wellbeing but also drive productivity, reduce absenteeism, and strengthen business performance. Kaya FM
GUEST – Sebastian Pillay Solutions Head at FNB Wealth and Investments at FNB
Gold has smashed through the $4,000 mark for the first time in history sending shockwaves through global markets and sparking renewed interest in South Africa’s most famous gold export: the Krugerrand. But as bullion prices soar, what does this mean for investors, collectors, and the broader gold value chain? Kaya FM
GUEST - Vuyiswa Khutlang, PwC SA Mine Project Leader.
Gold has smashed through the $4,000 mark for the first time in history a milestone driven by global uncertainty, record central bank buying, and investor flight from volatile markets. But what does this golden rally mean for South Africa’s mining sector, export revenues, and the broader economy? Kaya FM
In this week’s Tech & Innovation feature, we shine the spotlight on Zulzi the homegrown tech startup that helped build one of South Africa’s biggest digital success stories, Checkers Sixty60.
Founder Vutlharhi Donald Valoyi joins us to share how a vision born in Limpopo and nurtured in Johannesburg grew into a cutting-edge e-commerce and delivery platform that caught the attention of the Shoprite Group. From its early days serving students to shaping South Africa’s retail future, the Zulzi story is one of innovation, grit, and township-born tech excellence.
Tune in to hear how Zulzi is proving that world-class technology can come from anywhere — including the townships. Kaya FM
GUEST – Muvhango Lukhaimane - Pension Funds Adjudicator.
The Office of the Pension Funds Adjudicator (OPFA) recorded a 13% increase in new complaints during the 2024/25 financial year, attributing part of the rise to challenges linked to the implementation of the two-pot retirement system and the withdrawal option.
According to the OPFA’s latest annual report, the pensions dispute resolution forum received 10 331 new complaints, up from 9 177 the previous year and finalised 10 100 cases. A total of 239 complaints received between September 2024 and March 2025 related specifically to the two-pot system, which came into effect on 1 September 2024.
The new system allows fund members to access a portion of their retirement savings without resigning from employment. However, the report found that some funds struggled to process the high volume of withdrawal applications. Additionally, others were unable to pay claims due to employers’ arrear contributions. Kaya FM
GUEST – Ann Bernstein, executive director of CDE.
South Africa has the deepest and most persistent unemployment crisis in the world. Despite this, government continues to avoid the essential reforms that would change the country’s trajectory. Instead, it continues to rely on piecemeal public employment initiatives such as the Presidential Employment Stimulus or the Expanded Public Works Programme that will never shift the needle on unemployment.
The time has come to start talking about what a labour absorbing economy looks like, and what it would take to get us there. This includes making difficult decisions about the rigidities that hobble the labour market, the failure of skills development programmes, and the many barriers in the way of small and informal businesses.
This is the central message of a new report by the Centre for Development and Enterprise (CDE), South Africa’s Unemployment Catastrophe: A call for urgent action. Kaya FM
GUEST - Andrew Bahlmann, Chief Executive Corporate & Advisory, Deal Leaders International
The recent developments in the R23 billion Barloworld takeover offer valuable lessons for dealmakers and corporate leaders alike. The ruling by the Takeover Regulation Panel (TRP) requiring Newco - the consortium led by Gulf Falcon Holding of Saudi Arabia’s Zahid Group and Entsha Holdings - to pay shareholders the full R120 per share initially offered, rather than the adjusted post-dividend R118.80, has turned what seemed a procedural matter into a cautionary tale for the M&A community.
At one level, the issue appears minor: a question of whether the interim dividend of R1.20 should have reduced the final payout. Yet the consequences are anything but small, adding roughly R225 million to the deal’s final cost and introducing reputational and timing risks at a critical juncture. It serves as a stark reminder that in transactions of this scale, even the smallest oversight can have material implications. Kaya FM
GUEST - Thabile Nkunjana - Senior agricultural economist in the trade research unit of the National Agricultural Marketing Council.
South Africa’s potato industry is facing a major crisis as prices plummet well below production costs, leaving many farmers operating at a loss. The sharp downturn follows a bumper harvest, expanded plantings, and favourable weather conditions that created a supply glut across the country. Kaya FM
GUEST – Irshaad Kathrada, CEO of the Localisation Support Fund (LSF)
The Localisation Support Fund (LSF) has released a new case study showcasing the transformative impact of lean manufacturing principles at Coricraft, one of South Africa’s leading furniture manufacturers. With support from the LSF and lean specialists Dizani Consulting, Coricraft has achieved an 8% productivity increase, a 38% improvement in efficiency, and localised four product lines that were previously imported — adding an annualised R80 million in domestic manufacturing value.
This intervention forms part of a broader national effort to rebuild South Africa’s manufacturing base, aligned with the Furniture Industry Master Plan. Coricraft’s success demonstrates how deliberate localisation strategies, backed by technical expertise and management commitment, can drive industrial competitiveness, create jobs, and deepen supply chains. Kaya FM
GUEST – Leila Moosa, Senior Associate of the Employment practice at Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr (CDH).
On 3 October 2025, the Constitutional Court delivered its landmark judgment in Van Wyk and Others v Minister of Employment and Labour [2025] ZACC 20. As South Africa’s highest court, its decision sets the definitive standard for parental leave, ensuring equal treatment for all parents—regardless of gender, family structure, or parental status. Kaya FM
In this conversation we sit down with Mmenyana Ranku, General Manager for Branded Retail and Business Experience Hubs at MTN South Africa, to explore the company’s #1CustomerCommitment campaign: We Listen. We Care. We Make Moves.
From transforming traditional retail spaces into inclusive, digitally enabled experience hubs to rolling out biometric facial authentication and putting affordable smartphones in the hands of millions, MTN is redefining what it means to put customers first. Mmenyana shares the journey of innovation, community empowerment, and digital inclusion, giving listeners a behind-the-scenes look at how MTN turns feedback into action and why every customer interaction matters. Kaya FM
Are you ready to take control of your financial future but not sure where to start? We speak with Gareth Stobie, Director for Strategy and Corporate Development at ETFSA, to explore how ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds) can be a simple, effective way to build long-term wealth.
Whether you’re just starting out or have been putting off investing, Gareth breaks down how to get started, how ETFs work, and why this approach is almost “excuse-proof” for anyone looking to grow their money wisely. Tune in for practical insights, tips for beginners, and strategies to make your money work harder for you. Kaya FM
GUEST – Donald MacKay, CEO of XA Global Trade Advisors
The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) officially expired on 30 September 2025, ending more than two decades of duty-free access for African exports to the U.S. market. The lapse has sent shockwaves through key industries from South Africa’s automotive and citrus exporters to Kenya and Lesotho’s textile manufacturers, all of which built their competitiveness around the trade preferences AGOA offered.
With the agreement now lapsed, many African exporters are confronting steep tariff increases some as high as 30 and an immediate hit to orders, pricing, and margins. South African vehicle exports to the U.S. have already fallen sharply this year, while agriculture producers warn that higher costs could squeeze out smaller farmers and threaten thousands of jobs across the citrus value chain. Across the continent, apparel factories are reporting cancelled contracts and looming layoffs.
Although there is bipartisan support in Washington for a short-term renewal, no firm agreement has been reached. In the meantime, African exporters are in limbo facing rising costs, cautious buyers, and fading competitiveness. In this interview, we look at how businesses are coping in the post-AGOA environment, what the expiry means for trade, jobs, and investment, and how the region might reposition itself in a world where preferential access to the U.S. is no longer guaranteed. Kaya FM
GUEST – Andiswa Nondudule - ABSA CIB Economist
The seasonally adjusted Absa Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) increased by 2.7 points to 52.2 points in September, returning to expansionary territory for the second time this year. Absa also points out that, encouragingly, the average PMI for the third quarter rose to 50.8 points, from 45.4 points in the second quarter and 46.2 points in the first quarter.
It states, however, that the improvement has not been smooth, with volatility in the recovery of demand hampering sustained activity growth. "Indeed, the industry continues to face challenges, as export demand remains sluggish and is further complicated by US trade tariffs."
The business activity index increased by 12.1 points to 57.9 in August, moving into expansionary territory for the first time since October 2024, as strong demand recovery supported activity.
New sales orders increased significantly by 8.8 points to 56.1 in September, following a sharp drop of 8.5 points in August. Prior to July, the last time new sales orders had been in expansionary territory was in October 2024. "The domestic market drove the recovery as global demand remained under pressure and is complicated by steep US tariffs, a challenging trading environment and lingering South Africa port issues," Absa notes. Kaya FM
GUEST – Andrea Slabber, Insights Lead at Trade Intelligence
South Africa’s independent wholesale and retail sector is no longer the “hidden giant” of the economy, it’s a R268 billion industry that commands nearly a third of the FMCG market. According to Trade Intelligence, this sector, made up of wholesalers, hybrids, hypermarkets and independent supermarkets, is not only the backbone of the informal economy feeding tuckshops, spazas and small businesses but it’s also emerging as a powerful shopping destination for households under financial pressure. With agility, community investment and rapid innovation, independents are transforming from bulk-focused “cash & carry” outlets into modern retail hubs that rival, and in some cases outpace, corporate chains. Kaya FM
GUEST - Mongezi Mtati, Senior Brand Strategist of Rogerwilco and Township CX Report Lead.
Township consumers are rewriting the rules of South Africa’s retail and cultural economy, according to the fifth annual Township Customer Experience (CX) Report 2025, released today by Rogerwilco in partnership with Field & Insights Africa and MoyaApp.
The report, based on insights from 1 600 residents across all nine provinces and an additional 3 820 MoyaApp users, highlights how township households adapt under pressure, influence mainstream culture, and demonstrate resilience in the face of economic challenges. With an estimated R900 billion in spending power, townships are not peripheral economies but central to shaping South Africa’s consumer landscape Kaya FM
GUEST - Dr Marion Borcherds, Senior Manager and Head of Well-being at AfroCentric, a Sanlam subsidiary
Financial insecurity is not only about depleted bank accounts – it chips away at psychological resilience. When people lack financial confidence, they carry an invisible burden that permeates every aspect of their wellbeing.
Sanlam’s Age of Confidence campaign shows that most South Africans will need to work until the age of 80 to retire comfortably. That sobering projection alone creates a heavy psychological strain. Added to this, our 2025 Sanlam Benchmark report found that 44% of households have already dipped into emergency savings simply to make ends meet – a clear sign of how fragile financial and mental resilience have become. Kaya FM
South Africa’s new Code of Good Practice on Dismissals, gazetted in September 2025, has redrawn the lines on how employers – particularly small businesses – can dismiss employees. The updated framework acknowledges the reality that smaller firms often lack the HR expertise and resources of big corporates, easing procedural requirements while still protecting fairness.
Kagiso Lebethe, Senior Employee Relations Specialist, unpacks what the changes mean in practice: from how misconduct cases are handled, to greater flexibility during probation, the expansion of incapacity grounds to include cultural fit, and simplified processes for retrenchments. With small businesses being the backbone of the economy, these changes could prove to be a relief for employers – but what does it mean for workers’ rights? Kaya FM
GUEST – Graham Lee - CEO of Capitec Bank
Capitec Bank Holdings has reported a 26% rise in headline earnings at the halfway stage as it grew its active client base to 25-million, cementing its position as SA’s largest bank by customer numbers.Headline earnings grew by 26% to R8bn in the six months to end-August, translating into headline earnings per share (HEPS) of 6,962c.
Operating profit before tax increased by 26% to R10.47bn. The group’s clients experienced a reduction of R203m in transaction fees, merchant commission and the pricing of card machines. The group generated a return on equity of 31%, up from 29% a year ago. Kaya FM
GUEST – Jan Vermeulen, Editor at MyBroadband
The popular social media platform has become a global sensation, but its U.S. operations have been at the center of intense scrutiny due to concerns over data privacy, national security, and foreign influence. With a recent deal bringing major American investors on board, questions remain about what this means for the platform, its users, and the broader social media landscape. Joining us today, we dive into where this ownership debate started, why it matters who holds the reins, and what the new stakeholders stand to gain in this high-stakes tech story. Kaya FM
GUEST - Dan Marokane – Eskom’s Group Chief Executive
Power utility Eskom has announced a profit after tax of R16 billion for the full year ending March 2025, up from a massive R55 billion loss recorded in the previous year. The utility noted that the profit was driven by significant cost reductions in its primary generation costs, and reduced spending on open-cycle gas turbines.
The group recorded profit before tax of R23.9 billion (2024: loss of R25.5 billion), marking the first return to profitability since FY2017. It said that this was underpinned by a stronger EBITDA margin of 29.05% (2024: 14.67%), supported by a 12.74% standard tariff increase and a 14% reduction in primary energy costs. Kaya FM
GUEST - Shaun Barnes, Executive Director at 21st Century
We go into the complex world of executive pay in South Africa. From eye-catching headlines about multi-million rand CEO packages to the mechanisms behind them, we explore what truly drives these figures.
Shaun Barnes, Executive Director at 21st Century, breaks down the components of total executive compensation—fixed pay, short-term incentives (STIs), and long-term incentives (LTIs)—and explains how they work together to align leadership with shareholder value. We delve into performance hurdles like EPS growth, ROE, and Total Shareholder Return, and examine how South Africa’s unique imperatives, including transformation and sustainability goals, shape executive incentive structures. Kaya FM
GUEST - Mthobisi Mthimkhulu, senior manager of the Private and Direct Clients team at Allan Gray
As the adage goes: “Sometimes we are our own worst enemy.” This sentiment is especially true when it comes to long-term investing since behaviour is among one of the leading factors that hold investors back from reaching their financial goals. Amid an environment of heightened uncertainty and a world where instant gratification is king, it can be difficult not to get distracted by the lure of short-term gains or not allowing our emotions to drive our investment decision-making.
But, taking a long-term view of your investments and staying the course can give you the edge to achieve better investment returns over time. Mthobisi Mthimkhulu, senior manager of the Private and Direct Clients team at Allan Gray, joins Kaya Biz to discuss the long-term cost of making emotionally driven decisions in investing. Kaya FM
GUEST – Mangaliso Nxasana – Manager: Actuarial Umbrella Fund Solutions at Liberty
Liberty Corporate Benefits has published its first report on the impact of South Africa’s Two-Pot Retirement System, Relief Today, Preservation Tomorrow, one year after implementation. The report shows that the system has delivered immediate financial relief for members while strengthening long-term preservation. By mid-2025, millions of South Africans had accessed funds to manage pressing financial needs, with withdrawals largely used for debt repayment, household essentials, and vehicle deposits.
At the same time, the preservation component of the system has driven a sharp increase in members keeping retirement savings intact. Liberty notes that digital channels, particularly WhatsApp, have been crucial in ensuring fast, secure access for members, while the system’s success going forward will depend on education, transparent fees, and employer support. Kaya FM
AI is transforming South African workplaces, with demand for AI-related skills surging 77% year-on-year, according to Pnet’s Job Market Trends Report for August 2025. Specialist roles like machine learning engineers and data scientists are growing steadily, while traditional positions from content creators to financial clerks now increasingly require AI proficiency.
Paul Byrne, Head of Data Insights & Customer Success at Pnet, discusses which AI tools and skills are most sought after, how junior and mid-career professionals can adapt, and why regions like Gauteng and the Western Cape are leading the surge. The conversation also explores the emergence of international and remote opportunities, and what this rapid AI adoption means for future career paths in South Africa. Kaya FM
South Africa shed 229,000 formal jobs year-on-year in Q2 2025, with community services, manufacturing, and trade hit hardest, while mining and electricity saw modest gains. Quarter-on-quarter, the economy lost 80,000 jobs, marking the third consecutive decline in formal employment.
Despite the job losses, average monthly earnings rose 3.4% over the quarter, reflecting higher pay for those remaining employed. Labour analyst Michael Bagraim discusses the drivers behind the ongoing jobs crisis, the sectors most affected, and what these trends mean for the economy in the months ahead. Kaya FM
Your car’s condition could decide whether your insurance claim gets paid or denied. In South Africa, insurers are increasingly rejecting claims where a vehicle’s lack of roadworthiness is shown to have caused or contributed to an accident.
Hannes Bester, Manager of Adjudication the Non-Life Division of the National Financial Ombud Scheme of SA (NFO) joins us to unpack why roadworthiness is such a critical condition for cover. She explains how insurers assess whether faulty tyres, brakes, or other defects played a role in an accident, and why expert evidence is often central to these disputes. Kaya FM
Fraud and corruption often hide in plain sight, but lifestyle audits are becoming one of the most effective ways to uncover them. By comparing how someone lives against what they officially earn, companies can spot red flags that traditional audits might miss.
We speak to Steven Powell, Head of Forensics at ENSafrica, about why lifestyle audits are rising in importance for South African businesses. We explore how they work in practice, who gets selected for them, and how companies can use them fairly without targeting staff arbitrarily. Kaya FM
GUEST – Michael Zahariev - Co-founder of Luxity
Forget what you were taught about property being the ultimate safe haven. While many South Africans still treat real estate as their investment holy grail, a growing number are adding a timeless, tangible asset to their portfolio: luxury watches.
Imagine buying a Rolex today and three years later, it’s worth more than you paid for it. That’s exactly what's happening, with resale values climbing from 87.5% in 2021 to 104.9% in 2024. “This means they’re not just holding their value but appreciating beyond their original retail price,” says Luxity co-founder, Michael Zahariev. “Meanwhile, your property portfolio is probably losing value faster than you can say ‘bond repayment’.”
Academics are backing this up: A recent Swiss study found that luxury watches not only carry less risk than most traditional investments, but also deliver higher returns. Compared to property, a Rolex Submariner starts to look like far more than just a status symbol Kaya FM
The South African Reserve Bank’s proposal to move towards a single-point inflation target of 3% is sparking debate across the property sector. While the shift is not yet policy, it’s already influencing investor sentiment, affordability dynamics, and expectations in the housing and rental markets.
Jonathan Kohler, CEO of Landsdowne Property Group unpacks what this potential policy change could mean for the real estate landscape. Will tighter inflation targeting keep interest rates elevated and put homeownership further out of reach? Could this accelerate the growing shift toward rentals in cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg? And how should buyers, renters, and investors prepare for a more disciplined monetary environment if the SARB makes this move official? Kaya FM
Southern Africa’s private equity industry is back on the front foot. After years of economic headwinds and fundraising slowdowns, new research from SAVCA shows dealmaking is gathering pace, portfolio companies are growing, and exits are finding momentum.
We’re joined by Graham Stokoe, EY Africa Private Capital Leader, who led the team behind the 2025 SAVCA Private Equity Industry Survey. We unpack what’s driving renewed optimism in the sector, why infrastructure, energy and IT are leading investment flows, and how private equity is shaping jobs and growth in the region. Kaya FM
GUEST – Duma Gqubule - Adviser on economic development and transformation.
As the deadline for the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) approaches, South Africa stands at a critical juncture. While some analysts suggest that the loss of AGOA benefits might not be catastrophic, with potential GDP impact estimated at just 0.06% the broader economic and geopolitical ramifications are profound. The Trump administration's protectionist stance, including the imposition of tariffs, has intensified concerns about the future of trade relations between the U.S. and South Africa. Kaya FM
GUEST – Busisiwe Mavuso – CEO of Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA)
In the closing hours of what may prove to be a pivotal chapter in South Africa’s trade story, Pretoria and Washington are locked in last-minute negotiations over the future of AGOA the African Growth and Opportunity Act that underpins much of our country’s preferential access to the U.S. market. The backdrop is fraught: months of diplomatic strain, rising tariffs from the U.S., and growing anxiety in the South African business community over the potential fallout. Kaya FM
Guest: Jon Berkowitz – Co-founder of MotionAds
From just three branded bikes in 2019 to a nationwide fleet of over 2,000 motorcycles, MotionAds has unlocked R20 million in supplementary income for South Africa’s delivery drivers. The pioneering ad-tech company has built a model that works for both brands and riders delivering measurable marketing impact while helping gig-economy workers cover essentials, from petrol to school fees.
In this conversation, co-founder Jon Berkowitz shares MotionAds’ journey from a bootstrapped start-up to one of the country’s fastest-growing media platforms. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dr Frank Magwegwe, Nedbank's Executive for Financial Wellness and Advisory
Tonight shining a light on the money blind spots that many of us don’t even realize we have from hidden expenses that quietly drain our wallets to missed opportunities for growing our wealth.
We’ll be sharing practical tips on how to save smarter, invest wisely, and make your money work harder for you. Whether you’re just starting your financial journey or looking to optimize your wealth, this conversation promises insights that can help you take control and unlock real financial growth.” Kaya FM
GUEST – Sebastien de Place, partner at Forvis Mazars
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Forvis Mazars has released its C-suite Barometer 2025, capturing the views of more than 1,700 executives in over 35 countries, including South Africa. The survey reveals a paradox: business leaders remain optimistic about growth, yet face unprecedented challenges from rising competition, regulatory complexity, and global instability.
Globally, 93% of executives expect growth in 2025, with 85% reporting growth in the past year. However, the report warns that confidence in leaders’ ability to manage external pressures – from inflation and regulatory shifts to talent shortages has declined. Kaya FM
GUEST - Ken Varejes - CEO Whisky Live
The global spirits market is valued at over a hundred billion dollars, and at the heart of its premium segment sits whisky. It’s not just a social staple; it's a massive economic engine, driving significant GDP contributions, tourism, and investment both internationally and here in South Africa, which remains one of the world’s most important export markets for Scotch.
To discuss the business behind the barrel and how key events sustain this sector, we’re joined by Ken Varejes, the owner of Whisky Live, South Africa's largest and longest-running whisky festival a crucial platform that connects global brands with the local consumer. Kaya FM
Guest: Dehan Scherman - Process Development & Change Manager, National Debt Advisors
South Africans wagered a staggering R1.14 trillion last year on par with the national education budget. But behind this extraordinary boom is a silent epidemic of debt. Gambling participation has doubled since 2017, with 74% of youth now gambling, often using credit cards, loans, or even selling possessions just to keep betting.
Dehan Scherman unpacks how online betting, relentless marketing, and 24/7 smartphone access are fuelling a dangerous cycle where households gamble to solve financial problems only to sink deeper into debt. He reveals the hidden costs beyond money, from broken families to mental health struggles, and offers practical steps families can take to protect themselves. For anyone feeling gambling slipping out of control, Sebastien also shares the very first step to getting help. Kaya FM
Guest: Linnet Mhishi – Client Strategy Head for FNB Business
South Africa’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of inclusive growth and job creation, yet access to affordable finance has long been a stumbling block. FNB is tackling this challenge through strategic partnerships with global Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), unlocking billions in funding to derisk lending, lower interest rates, and expand support for entrepreneurs.
In this episode, Linnet Mhishi explains how these partnerships ranging from a R1.8 billion IFC credit risk-sharing facility to the R847 million NASIRA facility with FMO are helping women-owned businesses, rural and agricultural enterprises, and green economy projects access critical capital. She also unpacks the non-financial benefits DFIs bring, such as technical assistance, digital tools, and access to international markets. Kaya FM
Guest: Nomvelo Moima – Junior Economist, Bureau for Economic Research (BER)
South Africa’s Consumer Confidence Index has slipped further into the red at -13 for the third quarter, but it’s the middle class that’s really feeling the squeeze. Confidence among households earning between R5,000 and R20,000 a month has dropped sharply from -7 to -16, reflecting the mounting strain of high food inflation, weak job creation, shrinking two-pot retirement payouts, and rising living costs.
Nomvelo Moima unpacks why the middle class is bearing the brunt compared to low- and high-income earners, the paradox of pessimism despite easing interest rates and modest economic growth, and what these diverging confidence levels say about South Africa’s uneven recovery. Kaya FM
Stepping into a leading tax practice reveals just how far real-world tax work can stretch beyond the classroom. Rendani Makatu, Tax Intern and Expatriate Tax Support Specialist at Tax Consulting SA, shares the crucial insights she’s gained on the job that no textbook could prepare her for. Kaya FM
GUEST - Carel Vosloo, Chief Investment Officer at Remgro
Investment giant Remgro has announced a hefty payout to shareholders including a special dividend of 200 cents a share after reporting a strong set of results for the year to June 2025. Headline earnings jumped 38%, driven by contributions from Mediclinic, OUTsurance, Rainbow Chicken, RCL Foods and Heineken Beverages, which has bounced back into profitability. But it wasn’t all good news: impairments at Mediclinic Switzerland, eMedia and Capevin continue to weigh, while some assets underperformed. With the group’s share price still trading at a steep discount to intrinsic value, we ask: is this dividend boost a sign of long-term strength or just a temporary high? Kaya FM
GUEST - Mudiwa Gavaza - business writer for the Business Day and Financial Mail
French media giant Canal+ has finally sealed its R55-billion takeover of MultiChoice, creating a broadcasting and streaming powerhouse with more than 40 million subscribers across nearly 70 countries. The deal, years in the making, wasn’t just about cheques and shareholder votes – it required a complex LicenceCo structure to satisfy South African regulators on foreign ownership.
So, what does this merger mean for MultiChoice shareholders, for Phuthuma Nathi investors who overwhelmingly backed the deal, and for ordinary viewers worried about SuperSport, Showmax and the cost of content? Kaya FM
GUEST - Deon Smit, Master Reward Specialist and Executive Committee Member at the South African Reward Association (SARA).
In the workplace, the traditional notions of career growth and promotions are being reshaped by the ambitions of Generation Z (born 1997 - 2012) and Millennials (born 1981 - 1996). Kaya FM
GUEST - Jan Vermeulen, Editor at MyBroadband
Taiwan has slapped export restrictions on semiconductors bound for South Africa a move that threatens industries from car manufacturing to cloud computing. The decision follows Pretoria’s downgrading of Taiwan’s diplomatic office, a gesture widely seen as bowing to Beijing. With Taiwan controlling up to 90% of the world’s most advanced chips, the ripple effects could be severe, from pricier electronics to delays in digital transformation projects.
So what triggered this high-stakes standoff, which sectors stand to lose the most, and could South Africa end up more dependent on China’s less advanced chipmakers? Kaya FM
GUEST – Donald MacKay, CEO of XA Global Trade Advisors
XA Global Trade Advisors has released its seventh Import Duty Investigation Report, highlighting mounting inefficiencies in South Africa’s tariff system, growing backlogs, and the rise of so-called “zombie tariffs” that linger for years without resolution.
The report reveals that tariff investigations meant to conclude within four to six months are now taking an average of 27 months, with some cases unresolved for as long as 64 months. Alarmingly, 93.6% of tariff codes carrying duties have not been reviewed in over 20 years, resulting in outdated protections that stifle competitiveness and increase costs for businesses and consumers. Kaya FM
GUEST - Andrew Fulton, Director at Eighty20.
Following years of slow growth in credit participation post pandemic, South Africa's second quarter of 2025 marked its most significant expansion since Covid-19. The number of outstanding bank and retail loans rose by 3.5% YoY. Most of this growth in account volumes stemmed from unsecured loans, which saw a YoY growth 5.8% (associated with a 3.3% increase in outstanding balances).
Since the pandemic's economic disruption, South Africa's credit market has been characterised by muted growth. Years of economic uncertainty, rising interest rates and inflation pressure has kept lenders in a conservative mindset.
The number of credit active people grew slowly as only consumers with the lowest credit risk continued to qualify for new credit. Many consumers battled to qualify for new credit against the backdrop of risk-averse lending strategies employed by many lenders in the market. Kaya FM
South Africans on medical aid are bracing for another tough year. Despite calls from the Council for Medical Schemes to keep 2026 contribution increases in line with inflation, history tells a different story. In 2025 alone, medical aid costs overshot inflation by a staggering 7.1 percentage points – and experts warn the trend is unlikely to reverse.
Joining us is Lesego Kgampe, Executive Director of Corporate Advisory Services at ASI Financial Services, to unpack why medical aid premiums keep outpacing inflation, what’s driving the affordability crunch, and what this means for both households and employers. Kaya FM
GUEST - Prof Renata Schoeman - Head of the MBA in Healthcare Leadership at Stellenbosch Business School
According to the latest Gallup report, 36% of the South African workforce experience excessive daily stress and more than 71% are either disengaged or actively disengaged at work – some of the alarming signs of burnout.
This is not surprising considering that according to the Mental State of the World Report, South Africa, with a mental health quotient of 50, ranks 69 out of 71 countries and has the greatest percentage of distressed or struggling respondents at 35%.
Studies have found the dedicated and committed are particularly prone to burnout - a state of emotional, mental, and often physical exhaustion brought on by prolonged or repeated stress. The condition is classified as an occupational phenomenon by the World Health Organisation for its debilitating impact on productivity, bottom-line and the overall health of especially, top achievers Kaya FM
GUEST - Vuyo Lee, Director of Marketing and Corporate Affairs at the JSE
The Johannesburg Stock Exchange has launched a tool for South Africans to check if they are owed any money for unclaimed dividends.
The stock exchange has launched its new “Claim It” campaign, urging South Africans to check of they are potential shareholders owed a portion of the R4.5 billion in unclaimed dividends.
The campaign is a collaboration between the bourse and some of the largest companies listed on the JSE.
Through the collaboration, the JSE has access to nineteen issuer share registries and will endeavour to reunite nearly 375,000 former employees, shareholders or beneficiaries of deceased estates with their unclaimed funds. Kaya FM
GUEST – Ayesha Hatea, director of research and consulting at TransUnion South Africa
TransUnion’s latest Mobility Insights Report shows South Africa’s automotive market building momentum in 2025, supported by a favourable interest rate environment, record-low new-vehicle inflation, and liquidity from the two-pot pension reform. While recovery is underway, the outlook remains fragile, with affordability constraints and export headwinds threatening longer-term growth. Kaya FM
GUEST – Paul Makube, Senior Agricultural Economist, FNB Commercial
Why does red meat remain the heaviest weight on household food budgets even as broader food inflation shows signs of easing? After peaking at 5.5% in July, food inflation slowed to 5.2% in August, thanks to cheaper cereals, vegetables, and dairy products. Strong harvests and a firmer rand have pushed grain prices down sharply, but meat continues to buck the trend, keeping pressure on South African households. Kaya FM
GUEST - Lané Klopper - Consumer Panel Services Lead at NIQ South Africa
NielsenIQ (NIQ) South Africa has released its State of the Retail Nation analysis for the first half of 2025, showing healthy increases in retail sales value and volume. South African consumers spent just over R324.4 billion on fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) through traditional and modern trade channels during the first six months of the year. This represents year-over-year value growth of 7.4%, with unit sales also increasing by 7.2%. Kaya FM
GUEST - David Thomson, Senior Legal Adviser at Sanlam Trust
Sixty-six percent of South Africans do not have wills, and this shortfall cuts across ages, income levels, and demographic groups.
This is according to Sanlam Legacy’s 2025 Survey on South Africans and Wills, which found that although most people recognise the importance of estate planning, far fewer act on that knowledge. Kaya FM
GUEST – Andrew Levy, labour economist
South Africa is seeing a wave of job cuts by major companies from mining to manufacturing. But what do these retrenchments reveal about the true state of the economy?. Are we facing a structural problem in the labour market, or is this part of a global trend of companies tightening belts? Kaya FM
Sarb policy rate left unchanged, at 7%.
The Reserve Bank’s monetary policy committee (MPC) held the repo rate at 7% at its meeting on Thursday, maintaining a cautious stance in the face of inflationary pressures stemming from new trade tariffs, global uncertainty and a subdued domestic growth outlook.
Four of the six MPC members voted to hold, while two preferred a cut of 25 basis points Kaya FM
GUEST – Lorraine Landon - Head of Advertising Products and Solutions at Google Sub-Saharan Africa
YouTube is celebrating 20 years in South Africa, a milestone that tells the story of how a simple video-sharing site grew into one of the most powerful players in media, advertising, and the creator economy. Over the past two decades, South Africans have gone from being casual viewers to global creators building careers, launching businesses, and even challenging the dominance of traditional television.
But YouTube’s impact goes beyond entertainment. It has become a marketplace where brands and advertisers meet audiences directly, where young entrepreneurs build businesses from scratch, and where culture is shaped in real time. As the platform continues to innovate with features like Shorts, live streaming, and monetisation tools, the question is no longer whether YouTube matters but how deeply it is intertwined with the way we consume content and create opportunities in South Africa. Kaya FM
GUEST – Celiwe Ross - Chief Human Capital and Corporate Affairs Officer at Old Mutual
Old Mutual has launched its 'Add Your Voice' campaign to bring South Africans into global policy conversations during the country’s G20 Presidency. Central to the campaign is The People’s Podium, a platform where citizens can share their views on social and economic issues, contributing to more inclusive and locally informed policy discussions.
In partnership with the B20 Summit, Old Mutual aims to bridge the gap between everyday citizens and global decision-making, aligning with the B20 theme of “inclusive growth and prosperity through global cooperation. Members of Old Mutual will participate in four B20 task forces, ensuring South African perspectives are represented. Kaya FM
GUEST - Mpumelelo Zikalala – law expert
More than R1 billion. That’s how much South Africa has spent on commissions of inquiry over the years – from Marikana to State Capture with mixed results. The newly established Madlanga Commission is expected to cost R148 million in just six months, reigniting debate over whether these commissions deliver value for money. Kaya FM
GUEST - Mannee De Wet, Managing Director and co-founder of Planet Fitness
We take a closer look at the business of gyms in South Africa, an industry that has had to constantly adapt to shifting consumer trends, health and wellness demands, and the pressures of a challenging economic climate. At the centre of this story is Planet Fitness, a brand that has grown from its very first club in Benoni back in 1995, to becoming a billion-rand business with a national footprint. For nearly three decades, it has shaped how South Africans experience fitness, building not just gyms, but a lifestyle around health and wellbeing.
Joining us to unpack this journey is Mannee De Wet, Co-Founder and Managing Director at Planet Fitness. We’ll reflect on how he and his business partner have built this empire, how gyms have evolved over the years, and importantly, how they generate revenue and remain competitive in today’s tough economic landscape. Kaya FM
GUEST - Jeanette Marais - Momentum Group CEO
Momentum Group delivered an exceptional set of results for the year ending 30 June 2025, with record normalised headline earnings (NHE) of R6.26 billion, up 41% on the prior financial year which was already a record year. Operating profit increased by 52% from R3.6 billion to R5.48 billion. Kaya FM
GUEST – Sachin Chanderdhev - Absa Business Banking manufacturing sector specialist
The Absa Manufacturing Survey decreased by ten points to 23 in the third quarter – its lowest level since the first quarter of 2024, with Absa noting that overall business confidence in the sector remains under severe pressure, despite notable gains in sales and production activity in certain subsectors.
While manufacturers of consumer and capital goods within industries such as transport, food and furniture recorded meaningful improvements in sales and production activity, manufacturers of intermediate goods – including inputs used in the metals sector – reported significant declines in confidence levels. Kaya FM
GUEST – Wiehann Olivier, a Partner and FinTech & Digital Assets Lead at Forvis Mazars South Africa.
Thousands of South Africans who have traded or invested in crypto assets may soon face severe penalties. The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has started issuing letters to individuals suspected of undeclared crypto gains. Experts warn that those who fail to act now risk not only hefty fines but also potential criminal prosecution Kaya FM
GUEST - Reo Emmet, senior legal adviser at Allan Gray
Statistics reveal that over three-quarters of South Africans don’t have a valid will in place. Sadly, this can lead to lengthy delays that often end in unfavourable outcomes for their loved ones after they pass away. This week we celebrate National Wills Week in South Africa and this annual initiative encourages every South African to ensure that they have a will in place – regardless of their net worth – so that their assets are disposed of in accordance with their wishes after their death.
In addition to having a valid will in place, investors are encouraged to use this week to review their financial portfolios and ensure that they are making use of financial products that complement their estate planning objectives.
Reo Emmett, senior legal adviser at Allan Gray, joins Kaya Biz to discuss the importance of considered estate planning and ensuring that our financial affairs are always in order, so that our loved ones are taken care of in the event of our death. Kaya FM
GUEST - Robbie Proctor, Investment Analyst, Anchor Capital
Walmart, the world’s largest retailer, has announced plans to open its first branded stores in South Africa (SA) before year-end. While the brand will be a new addition to the retail landscape, the company has been operating in SA since 2011, when it acquired a majority stake in MassmartHoldings (owner of Makro, Game and Builders Warehouse). Despite the expertise of its parent company, it failed to replicate its global success, culminating in Massmart’s delisting in 2022.
Details of the Group’s long-term store roll-out plan remain limited. Walmart’s International President Kathryn McLay confirmed that stores will offer groceries, household essentials, apparel, and technology, with a strong emphasis on locally sourced products. The strategy aims to bring Walmart’s “Every Day Low Prices” to SA while highlighting local culture. Kaya FM
GUEST - Mudiwa Gavaza - business writer for the Business Day and Financial Mail
MultiChoice has officially begun restructuring its South African operations a key condition set by the Competition Tribunal before Canal+ can complete its R55-billion buyout of the pay-TV giant.
Mudiwa Gavaza, business writer for Business Day and Financial Mail talks to us about what this reorganisation means for shareholders, regulators, and the future of broadcasting in South Africa. Kaya FM
GUEST – Arthur Goldstuck, CEO of World Wide Worx
South Africa’s online shopping boom shows no signs of slowing. According to the latest Online Retail in South Africa 2025 report by World Wide Worx, online retail sales surged 35% in 2024, reaching R96-billion and are expected to hit R130-billion in 2025, pushing e-commerce to nearly 10% of total retail sales for the first time. Kaya FM
We sit down with Zibusiso Mkhwanazi, author of Business by Grace, co-founder of Avatar Advertising Agency and Executive Chairman of M&N, South Africa’s largest independent black-owned agency network. From starting his entrepreneurial journey with just R2 000 in high school to building an advertising powerhouse with approximately 200 employees across Johannesburg and Durban, Zibu’s story is one of grit, resilience and purpose-driven leadership.
We explore his journey from IT to media, the lessons he has learned about partnerships, leadership, and culture, and how he managed to steer Avatar through the pandemic without a single job cut. Zibu also shares candid insights on failure, letting go, and the role of faith as his guiding thread through turbulent times. Kaya FM
GUEST - Gail Schimmel, CEO of the Advertising Regulatory Board (ARB)
In this conversation we unpack how advertising is regulated in South Africa and why truth in branding matters.
Gail Schimmel, CEO of the Advertising Regulatory Board (ARB), explains the role of the ARB in safeguarding consumer interests, setting industry standards, and ensuring advertisers strike a balance between creative expression and factual accuracy.
We dive into the recent Liqui Fruit case, where the ARB ordered the company to drop its long-standing slogan, “Nothing But Fruit”, after finding it misled consumers about the actual contents of its juices. Gail takes us through how the ARB evaluates consumer complaints, investigates claims, and makes rulings that impact both brands and the public.
From the complexities of regulating creativity to the next steps for Liqui Fruit, this conversation highlights how advertising watchdogs are shaping accountability and why every word in an advert matters. Kaya FM
GUEST - Rivaan Roopnarain, PwC South Africa Banking and Capital Markets Partner
In this conversation we dive into PwC’s Major Banks Analysis 2025, a detailed look at the performance of South Africa’s Big Four banks, Standard Bank, FNB, Absa and Nedbank.
Despite operating in a climate of weak domestic growth, global trade uncertainty and shifting monetary policy, the major banks delivered a combined headline earnings growth of 11.2% to R69.7bn in the first half of the year. Return on equity improved to 19.5%, while credit losses eased and balance sheets strengthened.
Rivaan explains how the banks are showing stability through uncertainty: sharpening cost controls, investing in digital transformation, and leveraging regional expansion to drive growth. Kaya FM
South Africa’s rental market just hit a milestone only 17% of tenants are behind on rent, the lowest arrears ever recorded by the PayProp Rental Index. We speak to André van Rooyen, National Head of Sales at PayProp, about the Q2 2025 rental trends shaping the market.
We unpack why national rental growth slowed to 5% year-on-year, the role of major provinces like Gauteng, KZN, and the Western Cape in cooling the average, and why Limpopo’s rental boom (+12.5%) is one to watch.
André also explains what these numbers mean for landlords, tenants, and investors from record-low arrears and real-term gains to the growing gap between fast-rising smaller provinces and moderating big metros. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Nzwa Shoniwa, Managing Executive: Sanlam Umbrella Solutions
From 1 September 2024 to 31 August 2025, Sanlam Corporate paid out approximately R4 billion across 223 000 emergency-pot claims with R1 billion in tax flowing to SARS. On average, we are paying out about R150 million a month, but when the new tax year opened in March withdrawals spiked to just under R400 million. Around 70% of those March withdrawals came from repeat claimants people who had already taken money before. Almost everyone takes the maximum they can – 81% draw the full allocation – with the average withdrawal sitting at R22 100. Of our total members, 27% have chosen to make withdrawals. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Hylton Kallner, CEO of Discovery South Africa and Discovery Bank
Discovery has delivered record results, posting a 30% surge in profit and entering a new phase of scaled growth with its two main composites, Discovery South Africa and Vitality. We’re joined by Hylton Kallner, CEO of Discovery South Africa and Discovery Bank, to unpack the drivers behind this performance and what it means for consumers and investors alike.
We explore how Discovery Bank has reached profitability ahead of schedule with over 1.2 million clients, the role of AI in shaping healthcare and financial outcomes, and how the group is navigating challenges in global markets while sustaining growth across health, life, invest, and insure. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Mary Vilakazi – CEO of FirstRand
South Africa’s largest banking group, FirstRand, has posted a 10% rise in earnings and an impressive 20% return on equity – well above peers – despite economic headwinds. In this episode, we speak to Mary Vilakazi, the Group CEO, about what drove this performance, including strong growth in FNB, RMB, and WesBank, and how the bank is navigating challenges in South Africa, the UK, and across Africa. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Thabile Nkunjana, Agricultural Economist
Agricultural Machinery Sales indicate that August tractor sales of 700 units were 22% more than the 572 units sold in August last year. There have been welcome reactions from agricultural associations about the increase in machinery sales. kaya959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Peter Major – Mining analyst
Anglo American and Teck have struck a deal that will reshape the global copper landscape, creating the world’s second-largest listed copper miner after BHP. The new company plans to invest C$4.5-billion in Canada over the next five years, extending the life of Highland Valley Copper, boosting processing capacity at Trail, and backing new critical minerals facilities.
But the deal comes with strings attached. Canada’s government, wary of foreign control over strategic resources, approved the move only after imposing strict conditions on domestic operations, governance, and jobs. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Leila Moosa, senior associate at Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr
The global movement to give workers the “right to disconnect” from employer communication outside of working hours is gaining momentum, with Australia the latest country to adopt such laws. While South Africa has no immediate plans to follow suit, legal experts say businesses cannot afford to ignore the trend. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Jurie Strydom – Old Mutual CEO
Old Mutual has posted a strong set of interim results, with adjusted headline earnings rising 29% to R4.2bn, supported by exceptional underwriting performance at Old Mutual Insure and resilient equity markets. But beneath the topline growth lies a complex story of restructuring, margin pressures, and shifting market dynamics. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Estienne de Klerk, South Africa CEO of Growthpoint
Growthpoint Properties has delivered a resilient set of results, with distributable income rising 3.1% to R5bn on the back of a stronger showing across its three South African property sectors. Improved rental dynamics in retail and office, reduced vacancies, and robust growth in the logistics and industrial portfolio all supported the uptick. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
What would happen if South Africa were cut off from the SWIFT payment system? Beyond the headlines, such a disruption could upend trade, strain consumer access to goods, and test the resilience of local businesses.
Harry Scherzer, CEO of Future Forex, joins us to unpack the real implications of a SWIFT disruption, the practical steps companies can take to safeguard operations, and how fintech platforms are offering resilient, transparent alternatives to traditional banking. He also shares broader insights into the future of cross-border payments and what it will take for South Africa to stay globally connected despite rising geopolitical risks. kaya959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Hayley Ivins-Downes, Lightstone Managing Executive Real Estate & Director at Prop Data
Much has been written about the residential property markets in South Africa’s iconic cities, Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban – but what of the largest townships in or adjacent to each of these cities, Soweto, Umlazi and Khayelitsha?
While the glossy brochures and media headlines often focus on city skylines and prime real estate, there’s a vibrant pulse of urban transformation that often beats strongest in the townships on their periphery. kaya959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Ntshiki Maluleka, digital banking crime manager at SABRIC
South Africa’s banking industry has made notable progress in fighting financial crime. According to SABRIC’s latest crime statistics, financial crime losses dropped nearly 18% – from R3.3 billion in 2023 to R2.7 billion in 2024. But the picture isn’t all rosy.
Criminals are turning to artificial intelligence, using deepfake voice cloning, sophisticated phishing, and other AI-driven scams to target unsuspecting consumers. Card Not Present fraud remains especially stubborn, making up more than 85% of gross fraud losses on locally issued credit cards Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Ahmed Bull - Managing Director of TuppAfrica
Tupperware, the globally recognized home solutions brand, has officially returned to Africa with a refreshed business model focused on empowerment, innovation, and community. This marks a new era for a brand that has been trusted in African homes for over six decades. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Joe de Beer, Deputy Director-General responsible for economic statistics at Stats SA.
Following marginal growth of 0,1% in the first quarter of 2025, real gross domestic product (GDP) strengthened by 0,8%1 in the second quarter (April–June). Manufacturing, mining and trade led growth on the production (supply) side of the economy. The expenditure (demand) side was also positive, lifted mainly by stronger household consumption and softer imports. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
South Africa is seeing a noticeable increase in product recalls across sectors like food, pharmaceuticals, and automotive, a trend that reflects a robust consumer protection environment and vigilant regulatory oversight. In this conversation, Willie Jansen van Rensburg, Head of Claims at iTOO Special Risks, breaks down what these recalls reveal about corporate responsibility, regulatory compliance, and the evolving risk landscape. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
From the corridors of The Presidency to the studios of CNBC Africa, Nozipho Tshabalala has navigated a remarkable journey across politics, media, and global leadership. In this conversation she shares the experiences that shaped her evolution into “The Conversation Strategist,” a facilitator of high-stakes dialogues for global institutions like the World Bank and UN.
We explore how her personal journey, learning to embrace vulnerability, balance motherhood and career ambitions, and navigate difficult conversations with courage. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest– Sean Ashton, Head of Investments at Private Clients by Old Mutual Wealth.
In this conversation we dive into the forces shaping the world’s largest stock market. Sean Ashton shares insights from his analysis of S&P500 returns between 2010 and 2025, revealing that just a handful of top-performing stocks now drive the majority of gains. How concentrated are these returns, and what does it mean for investors navigating today’s markets? Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Sun International CEO Ulrik Bengtsson unpacks the group’s strong half-year results, with headline earnings up 60.5% to 305c per share. Driving the performance is Sunbet, where active players surged 70% and deposits more than doubled, contributing over 70% of group earnings. We explore how the business is balancing its digital momentum with resorts, hotels, and urban casinos, managing debt reduction, and preparing for opportunities in selective acquisitions while ensuring responsible gaming remains at the core of its growth strategy Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Transnet Chairperson Andile Sangqu unpacks the logistics giant’s latest results, with net losses reduced to R1.9bn and rail volumes edging higher. We explore whether these gains are sustainable in the face of cable theft, equipment failures, and rising debt of R144bn. Can the recovery plan deliver real economic impact and how will government guarantees and private partnerships shape Transnet’s long-term growth path? Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
GUEST: Raksha Darji, Senior Economist At The Competition Commission
In July 2020, the Competition Commission (Commission) published its inaugural Essential Food Price Monitoring (EFPM) Report, which systematically observed and tracked the prices of selected essential food items across their entire value chain from farm production through to retail outlets.
The primary objective of the EFPM Report was to monitor price movements for staple food items, with the aim of identifying market inefficiencies, analysing pricing dynamics at each stage of the value chain, and ensuring transparency in price transmission between producers, processors and retailers. The Commission has now expanded the scope of its price monitoring framework, restructuring the EFPM Report into the Cost of Living (COL) Report. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest: Nikki Bush, Human Potental Expert, Speaker & Author
Your degree of choice and freedom in the future is tied to your financial plan. Generations of conditioning to prioritise others can leave you feeling like the supporting act, both at home and at work. This mindset can make financial freedom feel like a dream rather than a reality.
Start small. Commit to a monthly debit order, no matter how modest. This habit allows you to build financial assets, stocks, shares, exchange-traded funds, that grow over time. Putting aside “what’s left over” at the end of the month is not a strategy; you need to make your money work for you while you work for it. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - B20 South Africa Sherpa Cas Coovadia
The Handover of B20 Recommendations marks the midway point in the B20 South Africa 2025 journey, as Task Force members have finalised their collective policy priorities for the G20.
As the B20 moves into its next phase ahead of the November Summit, the Handover highlights the private sector’s ability to offer practical, business-led solutions to global challenges, while elevating Africa’s voice in shaping an inclusive and sustainable global economy. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest: Peter Major, Director Of Mining At Modern Corporate Solutions
Anglo American has sold off its remaining shares in Valterra Platinum, marking the end of its time with the South African miner.
Anglo American Platinum was founded in 1995 following the unbundling of assets of Johannesburg Consolidated Investments (JCI) and its takeover by the Anglo American Group.
However, last year, Anglo American announced that it would unbundle Anglo American Platinum, now Valterra, as part of a global restructuring to counter a takeover bid from rival BHP.
Anglo American focused on getting ride of non-core assets that would free up cash and management time. The group decided to push out platinum, which has an uncertain future. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Abigail Mukhuba, Sanlam'S Group Finance Director.
Sanlam Limited reported earnings results for the half year ended June 30, 2025.Sanlam Ltd., Africa’s biggest insurer, posted record profit in the first half, paced by a recovery in its business on the continent and surging growth in India. Insurer Sanlam has reported a strong operational performance at the halfway stage of the financial year, with a 7% increase in new business volumes. Sanlam, which operates in 31 countries, has announced plans to enter into a joint venture with billionaire Patrice Motsepe-backed digital lender Tyme Bank, as it seeks to grow its personal-loans business in its home market of South Africa. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Dr Roelof Botha, Economist and compiler of the Altron FinTech Household Resilience Index
South African households remain under financial strain, with the latest Altron FinTech Household Resilience Index (AFHRI) showing a quarter-on-quarter decline of 4.2% in the first quarter of 2025 — despite a modest year-on-year improvement. Rising borrowing costs, falling real incomes, and stubbornly high unemployment have left consumers vulnerable, as restrictive monetary policy continues to weigh heavily on disposable income and household resilience.
We speak to economist Dr Roelof Botha, who compiles the AFHRI, about what these numbers mean for South Africans on the ground. He explains how elevated interest rates, weak job creation, and shrinking real salaries are eroding household stability and whether recent repo rate cuts might finally signal some relief ahead. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Shane Thoresson Chief Operating Officer at CashBuild
Cashbuild, one of southern Africa’s largest retailers of quality building materials and associated products, selling directly to a predominantly cash-paying customer base through 318 stores, reported its results for the financial year ended 29 June 2025.
The Group’s results for the financial year showed positive growth trends, but as a result of above inflationary cost increases, margins came under pressure despite good cost controls. The Group’s average selling price inflation remained steady at 1.7%. However, the average basket size declined by 1.1%, from R737 in 2024 to R729.
This decrease is primarily attributed to a shift in customer mix, with a higher proportion of retail shoppers compared to “bakkie” builders. Total customer transactions grew by 5.8% on a 52-week comparable basis, slightly outpacing revenue growth, largely due to the same shift in shopper profile. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Juanita Maree – CEO at Southern African Association of Freight
South Africa’s ports have reached a major milestone handling 18,689 TEUs in a single day this August. The Southern African Association of Freight Forwarders has hailed this as a turning point for the country’s logistics sector, after two years marked by inefficiencies, infrastructure bottlenecks, and global trade headwinds. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Gareth Cremen – Partner in the Business Restructuring, Rescue & Insolvency team at Cox Yeats?
In South Africa, business rescue has often been misunderstood and underutilised. A significant number of companies only consider initiating business rescue proceedings when they are already in dire financial straits — often at the brink of collapse. For many owners and directors, the process is perceived not as a strategic intervention but as a desperate “last card to play” when all else has failed. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Boitumelo Mosako - Development Bank of Southern Africa: Chief Executive Officer
The DBSA, has published its financial results for the year ended 31 March 2025 on the JSE Limited’s Stock Exchange News Service (SENS). These results, prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), provide comprehensive financial information to the stakeholders. The annual financial statements and annual report are available on the DBSA website.
Context of financial performance
Over the 2024/25 financial year, the macroeconomic landscape deteriorated with the global growth outlook revised lower, as reciprocal tariffs introduced new challenges, such as the changed global trade dynamics, increased geopolitical tensions, higher costs of doing business, disruption in market access and global supply chain disruptions. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Donald MacKay, CEO of XA Global Trade Advisors
President Donald Trump’s trade war suffered a big setback with many of his administration’s tariffs ruled illegal by a federal appeals court last Friday. Billions of dollars in trade duties may potentially need to be refunded to businesses as trade deals struck by the White House with other nations are thrown into question.
But for now, the underlying stance within the shipping industry and supply chain has not changed, according to logistics professionals, with the court decision a stay is in place until October 14 contributing to the uncertainty that has dogged business decision making throughout 2025. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Jacky Molisane - Acting Director-General at the Department of Employment and Labour
The Department of Employment and Labour has raised concerns about a spate of retrenchment notices that have gone out at major companies in South Africa, which could impact over 250,000 people down the line.
Minister of Employment and Labour, Nomakhosazana Meth, said she was “gravely concerned” about the retrenchments affecting Ford South Africa, ArcellorMittal South Africa (AMSA) and Goodyear SA. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Dokek Pater – Telecoms Analyst
Cell C’s path to the JSE is taking shape. Its largest shareholder, Blue Label Telecoms, has announced a sweeping restructuring aimed at strengthening Cell C’s balance sheet and capital structure ahead of a potential 2026 listing. The plan includes debt-to-equity conversions, asset transfers, and a “flip-up” of existing Cell C shares into a new Cell C ListCo entity.
Telecoms analyst Dokek Pater breaks down what these moves mean for Cell C’s growth ambitions, investor appetite, and South Africa’s highly competitive mobile landscape. Could this be the turning point that positions Cell C as a credible independent player on the JSE? Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Brenda Baijnath - Group Chief Financial Officer for Motus.
Motus Holding’s Limited’s (Motus) delivered a resilient performance for the year ended 30 June 2025 characterised by two distinct halves. The first half was marked by economic uncertainty across the Group’s operating regions, high interest rates and intensified competition.
Focused management actions, however, in the second half of the year targeting sales, margin recovery and operational efficiency resulted in a significant turnaround. The improved second half performance bolstered the Group’s overall performance. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Radhesen Naidoo, joint head of Institutional Clients at Allan Gray
A 25-year period of investing is a long time. To put this into context, if we cast our minds back 25 years, it was the beginning of the new millennium, we had just filed away Y2K crisis preparation plans, and we still watched the SABC news for world updates. Mission: Impossible 2 was the highest-grossing film of 2000 and technology investments were the fashion – as they are today. The turn of the century also marked the launch of the Allan Gray Stable Fund.
Amid a turbulent and uncertain investment landscape, cautious investors often look to preserve capital while achieving above-inflation returns. Radhesen Naidoo, joint head of Institutional Clients at Allan Gray, joins Kaya Biz to discuss why a low-equity unit trust, like the Allan Gray Stable Fund, remains a sound solution for the cautious investor, especially within the current environment. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Mustaq Brey – CEO of Brimstone
Brimstone today released its Group results for the six months ended 30 June 2025.
The Group reported headline earnings per share (“HEPS”) of 96.9 cents (2024: 71.9 cents), up 35% on the comparative period. This improvement was driven mainly by stronger profitability at Sea Harvest and supported by lower finance and operating costs at Brimstone.
“Despite a turbulent global and domestic economic environment, Brimstone delivered a strong performance, with attributable profit improving to R252.1 million, compared to a loss of R295.7 million in the prior period, driven primarily by the performance of Sea Harvest. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Pieter Engelbrecht, Chief Executive Officer of Shoprite Group
The Shoprite Group has published its results for the 52 weeks ended 29th June 2025, surpassing the R250 billion sales mark with sales growth of R20.6 billion for the period.
CEO of Shoprite, Pieter Engelbrecht, says the Group returned R16.5 billion at point-of-sale while successfully maintaining its selling price inflation at only 2.3% in its core Supermarkets RSA segment.
Shoprite and Usave recorded a sales increase of 5.9% translating to R6.5 billion in sales growth from a base of R110.1 billion with the Group managing to keep Shoprite’s pricing inflation below 2%.
Checkers recorded sales growth of 13.8%, adding R11.6 billion to reach almost R100 billion in sales while Sixty60 reported sales growth of 47.7% to measure R118.9 billion. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - David Morobe, regional general manager at Business Partners Limited.
The education sector in South Africa remains one of the major challenges for our country, with many public schools struggling to yield positive results and private schools being too costly for many South African households to afford. This challenge, however, signals a gap in the market and provides an opportunity for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the private education sector to flourish while contributing to improvements in the education sector.
The opportunities available to SMEs wishing to enter into the education sector are extensive – from private pre-primary schools to support services and innovative educational products. If SMEs take advantage of this opportunity, the education sector can not only be improved but also become more inclusive to provide the best prospects for all of South Africa’s children to one day contribute to a better-performing economy with lower levels of inequality and lead to improved lives. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Andrew Amoils is Head of Research at wealth intelligence firm New World Wealth
Africa’s millionaire population is projected to grow by 65% over the next decade, according to the newly published Africa Wealth Report 2025. The continent is currently home to 25 billionaires, 348 centi-millionaires, and 122,500 millionaires — a remarkable transformation from the late 20th century, when there were only a few billionaires and many African economies were in long-term decline.
Now in its 4th year, the report published annually by international wealth advisory firm Henley & Partners in collaboration with its global wealth intelligence partner New World Wealth shows that private wealth markets across Africa are expanding strongly despite global headwinds, underpinned by robust economic growth. Sub-Saharan Africa’s economy is forecast to grow by 3.7% in 2025 — outpacing Europe (0.7%) and the US (1.4%) — with growth projected to reach 4.1% in 2026. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Bongani Madikiza- CEO of Sanlam Retail Mass.
Sanlam is setting its sights on the mass market with a bold target of 10 million policies, following its landmark Assupol acquisition. The move signals a direct challenge to banks in the fight for financial services dominance, especially in the entry-level and middle-income segments.
We speak to Bongani Madikiza, CEO of Sanlam Retail Mass, about how this deal reshapes the insurance landscape, the opportunities in the mass market, and what it will take for Sanlam to meet such an ambitious goal. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Mpumi Madisa, Bidvest CEO
Services, trading and distribution group, Bidvest, has delivered a resilient result for the year ended 30 June 2025, closing with a stronger year-on-year performance in the second half, backed by excellent operational cash generation that increased by 5.8% to R14.7 billion, after working capital.
Key Highlights:
• R126.6 billion revenue, +5%
• R12.0 billion trading profit, +1%
• Trading profit margin of 9.5%, down 40bps
• R14.7 billion cash generated by operations, +6%
• ROFE 36.9%
• Continuing operations Normalised HEPS 1 886.4 cents, +1%
• Group Normalised HEPS 1 952.7 cents, -1%
• Continuing operations HEPS 1 759.5 cents, -3%
• Group HEPS 1 870.8 cents, -2%
• Final dividend of 453 cents, +1% Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Gugu Mtetwa - CEO of Partner Solutions at Santam
KEY HIGHLIGHTS OF RESULTS:
• 16% increase in Conventional Net Earned Premium,
• 10% increase in Gross Written Premium,
• 11.3% Conventional net underwriting margin achieved,
• 33.2% return on capital,
• 19% headline earnings increase to 1 873 cents per share,
• 590 cents per share interim dividend, up 10.3% Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
The world’s finest whiskies are back on display as the Whiskey Live Festival returns - bigger, bolder, and in a brand-new venue. From exclusive masterclasses to a vibrant lineup of participating brands, the festival promises an unforgettable experience for whiskey lovers and newcomers alike.
Our guest, Michelle Kirby, Executive Producer of Whiskey Live Festival, joins us to share what’s new this year, why the venue change matters, and what visitors can expect from the much-loved public VIP lounge to masterclasses and on-the-door ticket options. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Leanne Kunz - Head of the Digital News Transformation Fund
Digital News Transformation Fund (DNT Fund) will open its first application window on 25 August, allowing small, medium and community-based independent news publishers to apply for digital transformation and sustainability funding.
The R114 million fund, established last year, aims to help South African news publishers strengthen digital capacity, diversify revenue streams and future-proof operations. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Harry is a Chartered Accountant and has over twenty years of experience within the Financial Services sector. He was recently appointed as Chief Executive of FNB and has a long spanning career with FirstRand Limited, the largest listed Financial Services group in Africa by market capitalisation. Prior to this role, Harry was the Financial Director and Chief Finance Officer of FirstRand Limited from January 2014 until March 2024 when he was appointed as Chief Executive of FNB and its Retail and Commercial segment which represents 65% of FirstRand’s profits.
Prior to joining FirstRand, he worked at HSBC South Africa where he held the position of associate director in corporate finance. He is passionate about innovation and the need for continual, incremental changes Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Luncedo Mtwentwe, director at Vantage Advisory.
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) is increasingly taking note of the income generated by influencers in South Africa, with some making up to R35,000 for a single social media post.
These additional earnings can create tax headaches for individuals, pushing them up a tax bracket or even making them provisional taxpayers.
The South African influencer industry is rapidly becoming more lucrative, with it estimated to generate around R500 million in economic value each year. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
During Women’s Month 2025, the spotlight is on women entrepreneurs – but are we truly backing them beyond the speeches and symbolic gestures? Despite their proven impact on communities and economies, South African women face higher exit rates in business, limited access to funding, and systemic barriers in procurement and policy. The G20’s renewed push for inclusive growth makes this the perfect moment to ask: what will it take to shift from recognition to real investment?
Our guest, Linnet Mhishi, Client Strategy Head for FNB Business, unpacks the latest insights, the challenges women face in sustaining businesses, and what real structural change could look like to unlock the full power of women-owned enterprises in South Africa. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Justin Easthorpe - Provincial Sales Manager at ooba Home Loans
Decade-long data from ooba Home Loans shows that while women made up 46.3% of first-time homebuyers purchasing on their own in 2015, this number has since steadily climbed to 53% in 2025. “Since 2018, the trend of women entering the property market without the dependency of a partner has outpaced their male counterparts, a trend which is likely to continue.” Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Jan Mouton- Deputy Chairman for the Jannie Mouton Foundation.
The Jannie Mouton Foundation, a major shareholder in Curro Holdings, has signalled its intent to buy out the private school group. This potential transaction could reshape South Africa’s independent education landscape, giving the Foundation full control of the country’s largest listed school operator.
With nearly 72,000 learners across its network, Curro has been under pressure from slowing enrolments and rising economic strain on households. A buyout by the Foundation would not only reflect confidence in the long-term demand for private education but could also free the business from short-term market pressures, enabling it to focus on growth, efficiency, and educational excellence. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Cobus Loubser, Chief Executive Officer of Curro Holdings
Curro Holdings, South Africa’s leading independent school network, has released its interim results for the six months ended June 2025 – showing a mixed picture of resilience in tough market conditions. Revenue rose 4.7% to R2.7 billion, while cash generated from operations jumped over 10% to R688 million, reflecting strong financial discipline. However, earnings per share dropped 36% due to a R74 million asset impairment on vacant land earmarked for future development.
Despite these headwinds, recurring headline earnings remained stable, up 0.2%, and net debt declined by R156 million following a successful R2.4 billion debt refinancing on better terms. Learner numbers slipped 1.4% year-on-year to just under 72,000, even as fee revenue grew and ancillary income surged 10.8%. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Raymond Ledwaba – founder of ITTHYNK Gaming and the AfriGames Consortium
Africa’s gaming industry isn’t emerging, it’s exploding. In 2024 the market generated $1.8 billion in revenue, a 12.4% year-on-year increase, growing six times faster than the global average. With 349 million gamers across the continent (304 million on mobile alone), Africa added 32 million new players in just one year.
Mobile gaming already accounts for nearly 90% of the market, creating massive opportunities for developers, investors, and SMEs. Egypt, Nigeria, and South Africa lead in revenue, but the fastest growth is happening in unexpected markets like Eritrea and Niger. This isn’t just entertainment. It’s a business revolution.
And yet, at Gamescom 2025 in Cologne, the world’s biggest gaming expo, Africa had no national pavilion. Countries from Brazil to Thailand showcased their ecosystems. Africa’s absence is both a gap and an opportunity. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest– David Shapiro, Chief Global Equity Strategist at Sasfin Wealth
Capitec has officially overtaken FirstRand to become Africa’s most valuable bank — a remarkable feat considering it is the smallest of South Africa’s big five banks by assets, and has the least presence across the continent. Yet, with more than 24 million customers, a trusted brand, and four straight years of record profits, Capitec has defied traditional banking models.
Its share price has skyrocketed over 213,000% since listing in 2002, reflecting a strategy that focused on solving real customer problems: simple products, low-cost banking, and tech agility. While peers like Standard Bank, Absa, and Nedbank boast far larger balance sheets, Capitec has consistently delivered superior returns and earnings growth, cementing its position as the market’s favourite. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Jan Vermeulen, Editor at MyBroadband
Blue Label Telecoms has posted a strong set of results, driven largely by its investment in Cell C. The telecoms operator, once written down to nil, has now delivered a “net positive” earnings contribution to the group – powering headline earnings per share up more than 500% in the year to May.
With its recent rebrand to Blue Unlimited (BLU) and a push to secure a controlling stake of 53.5% in Cell C, Blue Label is looking to restructure and ultimately list the mobile operator, giving it the independence to stand on its own merits. The Competition Commission has already signaled its support, calling the deal “another chance at life” for Cell C after years of financial strain. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Sometimes the simplest ideas can spark the biggest change. In rural South Africa, livestock theft is a growing crisis costing farmers millions and threatening livelihoods. But one entrepreneur believes he’s found a practical solution. Morebodi Memphis, founder of Moonshine, has developed a reflective spray paint designed specifically for livestock. The innovation makes animals highly visible at night, acting as a deterrent to thieves and helping farmers keep better track of their herds. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Wandile Sihlobo, Chief Economist at the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz)
Livestock theft may not always make the headlines, but it is a growing crisis for South Africa’s farmers. Statistics South Africa’s latest survey reveals the staggering scale of the problem: more than 61,000 goats, 38,000 cattle, and 36,000 poultry were stolen in 2024/25 alone. Beyond the numbers, the impact is devastating from driving up security costs for commercial farmers to pushing smallholder and new entrant farmers to the brink of collapse. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Raziq Christians, Executive: Retail Distribution at PPS Investments
A global shift in generational wealth is quietly reshaping the future of financial advice. Over the next two decades, an estimated U$100 trillion in assets will pass from the hands of the baby boomer generation to their children and grandchildren. While this global phenomenon is already well underway in developed markets, South Africa is beginning to feel the ripple effects too, as a significant portion of local high-net-worth individuals approach retirement age or begin to structure their estates.
For the financial advice profession, this is not just a moment of potential growth, it is a critical juncture. The clients of the future will not only look different demographically; they will think, behave, and expect entirely differently from those who came before. The question is not whether advisers are aware of the so-called “great wealth transfer”, most are. The real question is whether they are ready for what it demands of them. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Sanisha Packirisamy - Chief Economist at Momentum Investment.
South Africa’s inflation target has anchored monetary policy for nearly 25 years but is it time for a reset? The South African Reserve Bank is considering lowering its target range, aligning closer with international peers. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
South Africa’s freight rail network is finally opening up to private firms a move set to reshape the country’s logistics and trade landscape. But beyond the policy shift, why should ordinary South Africans care?
We speak to Mesela Nhlapo, CEO of the African Rail Industry Association, to unpack what this opening means for the economy, businesses, and everyday citizens. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Katlego Mothudi – Managing Director at the Board of Healthcare Funders
As first reported by BusinessDay, the Board of Healthcare Funders (BHF) has launched fresh legal action at the Constitutional Court to challenge the National Health Insurance (NHI) Act. The BHF argues that parliament failed to conduct a proper public consultation process, rendering the legislation unlawful and invalid.
Joining us is Katlego Mothudi, Managing Director at the BHF, who breaks down the motivations behind this legal bid, the implications for healthcare funders, and what it all means for the future of universal health coverage under the ANC’s ambitious NHI plan. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Fikile Mbhokota, CEO of Satrix
In this conversation we open up the “money dictionary” of Fikile Mbhokota, CEO of Satrix. From decoding complex financial jargon to making investing accessible for everyone, Mbhokota shares the principles, lessons, and mindset that have shaped her financial journey and leadership in one of South Africa’s leading investment firms.
Whether you’re a first-time investor or a seasoned market watcher, this conversation offers smart, practical insights to help you rethink the way you engage with money. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Geoff Whyte - ADvTECH CEO
Group revenue grew by 10% to R4 683 million for the six months ended 30 June 2025 (2024: R4 274 million), driven by a 13% increase in the education division.
Group operating profit increased by 14% to R982 million (2024: R865 million), with the education division’s operating profit increasing by 15%, supported by strong enrolment growth. Group operating margin improved to 21.0% (2024: 20.2%).
Operating margin in the education divisions improved to 23.8% (2024: 23.5%) through the benefit of operating leverage and a continued focus on efficiencies. This more than offset the additional costs incurred to strengthen our brands through the introduction of additional global benchmarking measures, artificial intelligence tools to support personalised learning and enhanced student information systems.
Normalised earnings for the period increased by 16% to R620 million (2024: R535 million) while normalised earnings per share increased by 16% to 113.0 cents (2024: 97.7 cents) per share. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Walt Bruns - Group Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at Sasol
South African petrochemical firm Sasol swung to an annual profit on the back of higher chemicals prices, tighter cost controls and lower asset writedowns.
The company, which produces fuel and chemicals from coal and gas, posted basic earnings per share of R10.60 for the year ended June 30, compared to a R69.94 loss per share last year.
Sasol also benefited from a R4.3 billion payout from Transnet, after it claimed in a legal suit the state-owned logistics firm had overcharged for oil transportation over several years. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Mpumi Mpofu, CEO of Airports Company South Africa.
Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has delivered a landmark set of results, posting a record R1.1 billion profit for the year ended March 2025 more than double the prior year’s performance. Revenue surged to R7.9 billion, with non-aeronautical income such as advertising, retail and hotels now making up nearly half of the total.
Gugulethu Mfuphi speaks to Mpumi Mpofu, CEO of ACSA, about what has driven this growth, how the company is managing operational pressures post-pandemic, and the progress made in addressing governance concerns. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Colin Strumpher, Sales Manager at Better Bond
Momentum is building in the residential property market. July saw home loan application volumes jump 14% quarter-on-quarter and 12% year-on-year – the highest since Q3 2022. The BetterBond index of home loan applications is now just 8% below its 2022 peak. Further gains are expected as the latest prime rate cut from 10.75% to 10.50% begins to filter through in August. Lower borrowing costs are already improving affordability and encouraging renewed buyer activity.
The average home purchase price for all buyers reached a record R1.6 million in July, up 2.1% year-on-year. First-time buyers (FTB) also hit a new high of R1.3 million, with both increases outpacing July’s 3% inflation rate. However, deposit requirements moved higher: up 14% from Q2 for all buyers to R311,000, and up 5.8% year-on-year for FTB to R188,000. While still below early-2024 peaks, deposit trends will be one to watch as market activity strengthens. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Prof Vukosi Marivate is a Professor of Computer Science and holds the ABSA UP Chair of Data Science at the University of Pretoria.
Artificial intelligence (AI) holds significant promise for Africa, with applications spanning key sectors, from agriculture and healthcare to education. AI can enhance financial inclusion, job creation and public service delivery and contribute to the continent’s economic and social progress. In fact, research by the African Union Development Agency predicts that leveraging AI technology could double Africa’s gross domestic product by 2035.
As AI is developing at a rapid pace, and on a global scale, we need to ensure that this emerging technology can be applied to our continent’s unique realities if we are to realise its true potential. This means investing in digital skills, expertise and capacity and fostering research and development to build a viable, sustainable AI ecosystem on home soil. Importantly, harnessing the benefits of AI in Africa is dependent on a regulatory environment that supports ethical AI use and promotes inclusive digital transformation. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Kokkie Kooyman, banking analyst and director at Denker Capital
As the world shifts towards cashless payment methods, South Africa is gradually moving away from cash against a social and economic backdrop of inequality and slow economic growth. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Ben Magara – Exxaro CEO
Exxaro experienced a strong start to the first half of 2025 under the leadership of its new CEO and amid the miner’s strategy to diversify away from coal.
Exxaro is South Africa’s biggest coal miner, but has been in the process of adding other minerals to its portfolio.
The company recently acquired the country’s largest manganese mines for around R11.67 billion as part of this strategy. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Sipho Sono – Business Rescue Practitioner At Mango Airlines
Low-cost carrier Mango Airlines is heading towards a final winding down after the investor waiting to acquire it pulled out of the process.
In a circular published by the Business Rescue Practitioners (BRPs), the group confirmed that the investor, established as Ubuntu Air for the transaction, no longer wanted to proceed with the process.
Mango was placed in voluntary business rescue on 28 July 2021, and the business rescue practitioners were appointed in August of that year Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest - Parmi Natesan, CEO of IoDSA
The Minister of Tourism decision to dissolve the SA Tourism board over what has been described as an unlawful meeting during which it appears to have been resolved that the CEO of the organisation would be suspended following various allegations. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Makgale Mohlala - Competition Commission Head of Cartels
Local and international banks, previously cleared by the Competition Appeal Court (CAC) of allegations regarding their collusion to manipulate the rand against the US dollar, now face renewed scrutiny as the Competition Commission prepares to take the matter to trial.
This is according to Advocate Tembeka Ngcukaitobi, acting on behalf of the Competition Commission. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Ryan Pellatt, Operations Executive at Fournews [Owners of News Café, Soul Souvlaki and MOYO]
What’s driving restaurant industry success in South Africa? According to Stats SA, income from the food and beverages industry grew by 4.5% year-on-year in May 2025, with 95% of South Africans dining out at least once a month. It’s a lucrative space, but it takes more than good food to build staying power in such a competitive market.
For the past three decades, brands like News Café have become a cornerstone of South Africa’s urban culture evolving with customers, innovating in operations, and remaining relevant across generations.
Now, with expansion plans into new local and regional markets, the question is: what does it take to build and sustain a restaurant chain that not only survives, but thrives? Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Elize Kruger - Independent economist
New salary data from BankservAfrica shows that fewer salaries are being paid over R40,000 a month, pointing to increased job losses among higher earners in South Africa.
This is more broadly reflected in average pay data, which declined slightly in July 2025, falling 1.1% compared to June and 6.9% since the start of the year.
This is according to the latest BankservAfrica Take-home Pay Index (BTPI), which tracks the monthly salary movements of approximately 3.8 million South African salary earners. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Patrick Kelly, Chief Director for Price Statistics at Stats SA.
Consumer price inflation (CPI) rose to 3.5% month-on-month in July in line with broader expectations among economists, the highest rate since 3.8% which South Africa saw in September last year.
This was announced in Statistics South Africa’s (Stats SA) CPI update for July released on Tuesday morning. Ahead of the release, economists widely expected inflation to rise sharply from 3% year-on-year to 3.7% in July. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Tshepo Thebyane, Senior Tax Consultant at Tax Consulting SA
With the 2025 annual tax filing season underway, many South Africans who have incurred significant out-of-pocket medical expenses during the year of assessment, continue to enquire about how they can possibly claim an additional medical tax credit to lower their tax liability.
Section 6B of the Income Tax Act permits an additional medical tax credit. This allows for an additional medical tax creditclaim (“AMTC”) on the condition that the out-of-pocket expenses align with the definition of qualifying medical expenses, as set out in the Act.
Taxpayers who incurred qualifying medical expenses and have been able to fully support their claims, have seen the benefits. In practice, successful medical tax credit claims have amounted to additional medical tax credit claims between R2,000 and R100,000 per tax year, stemming from out-of-pocket expenses incurred such as, laboratory test results to expenses for a dependent suffering from a disability, to mention a few. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
For many South Africans, their retirement savings pot represents the biggest financial asset they hold. Employers have a duty to protect their employees’ financial interests and ensure that the choices made in relation to selecting the retirement funds in which their contributions will be invested are sound and can positively impact their long-term financial outcomes. Equally, employees also have a role to play in securing their financial futures by taking an interest in their retirement products and ensuring that they are on track to achieve a dignified retirement. Whether you’re an employee trying to make sense of your retirement fund or an employer wondering how to better support your team, this conversation is for you.
Belinda Carbutt, investment specialist in the Group Savings and Investments team at Allan Gray, joins Kaya Biz to discuss the world of umbrella retirement funds and what employers and employees can do to get the most out of the product. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Guest – Senzo Mbatha, CEO of Menza Group International.
Football may be the beautiful game, but behind the goals and the glory lies serious business. We explore the different club ownership models shaping the sport here in South Africa and across the African continent. How do these structures affect the financial health of clubs, their competitiveness on the pitch, and their ability to attract investors?
To help us unpack this, we’re joined by Senzo Mbatha, former CEO of Orlando Pirates and Young Africans of Tanzania, a man who has lived and led on both sides of Africa’s football divide Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
Competition Tribunal’s approval of Barloworld’s takeover is a move that could reshape parts of South Africa’s industrial landscape. What does this decision mean for the company, its competitors, and the broader economy?
Joining us is Andrew Bahlmann, Chief Executive of Corporate and Advisory at Deal Leaders International, to break down the deal and its wider implications. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
We revisit the long-running rand manipulation case as it heads to the Constitutional Court. Major banks, including FirstRand and Standard Bank, argue they’ve suffered reputational harm from the Competition Commission’s probe into currency fixing.
Joining us is Harry Scherzer, CEO of Future Forex, to unpack what this means for the banking sector, the markets, and South Africa’s financial credibility. Kaya 959 · Kaya FM
GUEST – Rob Rose – Editor at Currency
It was an icon of construction whose name is plastered across South Africa’s landmarks, yet this week it announced its liquidation. So was it a victim of circumstance, or its own own-goals?
It was a company that defined South African engineering excellence for a century, mirroring the path of the country’s industrialisation.
The landmarks it built are the country’s landmarks: the highest building in Africa, the 200m-tall Carlton Centre, built in 1975; the garish Sun City, built in 1981 for R25m; the 68,000-seater Cape Town Stadium, built for the 2010 World Cup. Kaya FM
GUEST – Kagiso Lebethe - Senior Employee Relations Specialist
While being fired solely for being hungover at work, even if you didn't drink on the job, is generally considered unfair, it is still possible depending on your company's policies, the severity of your symptoms impacting your work performance, and whether you informed your employer about the reason for your condition; however, you may have legal grounds to contest this decision depending on your location and employment laws. Kaya FM
Celiwe Ross is the Director: Strategy | Sustainability | People | Public Affairs at Old Mutual Limited. She started her career in the mining industry, after graduating as a mining engineer. She then completed her MBA before transitioning to a career in investment banking with Standard Bank, where she developed solid credentials in project finance, structured finance and origination in the mining, energy, and infrastructure sectors across the African continent.
Before joining Old Mutual, she spent two years with the global search and leadership advisory firm, Egon Zehnder, leading their financial services practice. Celiwe has worked with a wide array of financial services companies, advising on their leadership needs and team effectiveness. Following her appointment as Group Human Capital Director in 2018, her role was broadened to include the Group Strategy portfolio in 2022. Celiwe was named Top Woman Business Leader of the Year at the 2022 Standard Bank Top Woman Awards. Kaya FM
GUEST: Ashley Saffy - FNB Card Head of Spend and CVM
Valentine’s Day, popularly known as one of the most anticipated days to celebrate love through gifts and special moments with their loved ones, is finally here. During this popular period, past trends have indicated that FNB card holders spend more each year on categories such as chocolates, flowers, general gifts and jewellery.
Overall, Valentine’s Day spend in these categories increased by 11% year-on-year (YoY) in 2024 and is expected to double in digit growth this year. In the week of Valentine’s Day, the bank saw a 60% week-on-week increase in spend on chocolates in 2023 and 54% in 2024. Spend on flowers also reportedly increased by 83% in 2023 and by 91% in 2024. General Gifts also noted a 10% spend increase in 2023 and 9% in 2024, while jewellery equally saw a 10% spend uptick in 2023 and 9% in 2024. Kaya FM
GUEST – Xhanti Payi, PwC South Africa Senior Economist
PwC says next week's budget is likely to see Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announce disappointing revenue collection numbers, largely due to a poor value-added tax (VAT) take in December.
National Treasury originally expected total tax revenues of about R1.86 trillion for 2024/25 when it delivered its budget in early 2024. However, by the time the medium-term budget policy statement (MTBPS) was delivered in October, Treasury was forced to revise that figure downwards by some R22 billion to about R1.84 trillion, thanks mostly to decreased personal income tax, VAT, and fuel levies. Kaya FM
GUEST - Thenjiwe Shezi – Owner of First-Class Parking
First Class Parking is purely Black-owned by female leader Ms. Thenjiwe Shezi and has been operating since November 2018 at OR Tambo International Airport. First Class Parking is an official parking valet at this local international airport with more than 40 employees across Gauteng. Kaya FM
GUEST - Dashni Vilakazi, MD of The MediaShop JHB
When was the last time you saw a perfume ad featuring a famous actor or model? Brands often break out some serious budgets in order to secure a big-name celebrity for an ad. The question, though, is whether or not it is worth it. Kaya FM
GUEST - Charlene Louw, CEO of the Beer Association of South Africa (BASA)
Beer is not just a drink; it's a cornerstone of economies around the world that fuels job creation, drives tourism, and sparks innovation across agriculture, manufacturing, and retail sectors.
In 2023, the local beer industry poured a massive R96.46bn into South Africa’s GDP, contributed R56.5bn in tax revenue, and supported 209,000 jobs, according to the latest Oxford Economics study, “Beer’s Global Economic Footprint”. Kaya FM
GUEST - Andrea Slaber, Insights Lead at Trade Intelligence
The South African FMCG corporate retail sector demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth in 2024. Over the second half of 2024, food inflation moderated, after +10.8% inflation for 2023, on top of the +9.2% in 2022. This moderation supported underlying volume growth performance, with Shoprite Supermarkets RSA joining Clicks and Boxer in the black, while Woolworths Food and SPAR Retail Grocery improved but were still in the red. Kaya FM
GUEST – John Anderson - Executive: Solutions & Enablement at Alexforbes
Alexforbes has released key insights and trends from the implementation of the two-pot retirement system, a significant change to South Africa’s retirement fund sector introduced on 1 September 2024. The system aims to enhance the financial well-being of retirement fund members by balancing long-term savings with short-term financial needs.
Insights are based on a comprehensive survey of over 8,200 responses and data analysis covering over one million members. Kaya FM
GUEST – Lincoln Mali - Chief Executive Officer: Lesaka Technologies and President of ASAPP
In a country with a large underbanked community and millions of businesses still reliant on cash-only transactions, the launch of a groundbreaking association promises to contribute to an inclusive financial sector for all and progress the digitisation of payments in South Africa. The Association of South African Payment Providers, known as ASAPP, was officially launched today by eight of the largest non-bank digital payment providers in South Africa.
ASAPP's primary objectives are to promote fair access to payment infrastructure, reduce the wholesale cost of digital payments, and enhance transparency and customer mobility within South Africa's payment ecosystem for both individuals and businesses. ASAPP aims to create more opportunities for financial inclusion by advocating for increased support for and participation of non-bank payment providers in the payment ecosystem. Kaya FM
GUEST - Thebe Ikalafeng – Founder of Brand Africa
‘This has been a wild week, with way more news coming out of the new administration than anyone can follow. And that’s likely by design. “The opposition party is the media,” Steve Bannon, who helped run Trump’s 2016 campaign, told PBS Frontline five years ago. “And the media can only — because they’re dumb and they’re lazy — they can only focus on one thing at a time.” So the solution, per Bannon? Overwhelm them
The first three weeks of the Trump presidency have lived up to that idea, often with far more than three things happening each day. There have been dozens of executive orders, an attempted remaking of the federal government led by Elon Musk, potentially consequential Cabinet appointees confirmed, some promised tariffs put in place (and others delayed), deportations, far-reaching and controversial assertions and a new version of America put forward on the world stage. Kaya FM
GUEST - Pearl Matibe - Washington DC-based foreign correspondent
In this conversation explore the complex relationship between the Trump administration and Africa, with a particular focus on South Africa. From the president's controversial remarks to his policies on trade, foreign aid, and diplomacy, we delve into how Trump's approach reshaped the U.S.-Africa dynamic.
We also examine his direct use of media, including his signature style of communication through social media, and how his tweets and public statements created headlines across the globe. Kaya FM
GUEST – Amith Singh, National Manager, Manufacturing, Nedbank Commercial Banking
SA’s manufacturing sector ended 2024 on a weaker footing with total annual production declining by 0.4% compared with 2023.
According to Stats SA’s latest data, manufacturing production decreased by 1.2% in December 2024 compared with the same month in the previous year. Kaya FM
GUEST - Nzwa Shoniwa, Managing Executive at Sanlam Umbrella Solutions
The true retirement age in South Africa is closer to 80 rather than the traditionally expected 65, according to Sanlam Corporate. This “retirement age gap” has significant implications for individuals, businesses, and the state.
Sanlam Corporate says employers need to intervene to help South Africans retire earlier and more comfortably. These interventions include aligning contributions with salary increases and making financial advice more accessible to employees.
Sanlam Corporate provides employee benefits, retirement fund solutions, investment management, and insurance products to businesses and institutions. Kaya FM
GUEST – Nqobile Ndlovu - Cash N Sport Research Director.
This past weekend, football fans across South Africa were glued to their screens as Mamelodi Sundowns faced off against Orlando Pirates in a highly anticipated clash. Whether you watched the match on traditional TV or via a streaming platform, one thing is certain: broadcasting major sporting events is big business. But how exactly do TV channels and streaming platforms make money from these games?
Such high-profile matches captivate millions, not only in stadiums but also through extensive broadcast coverage. Today, we uncover the strategies that broadcasters use to turn viewership into profit. Kaya FM
GUEST - Sanisha Packirisamy, chief economist at Momentum Investments
Investor confidence is likely to remain rattled in the context of ongoing market volatility in response to US President Donald Trump’s policy announcements and tariff threats.
The US imposed a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, alongside a 10% tariff on Chinese goods. Canadian energy products faced a reduced tariff of 10%. Although the tariffs on Canada and Mexico are on hold, these steps from Trump’s administration marks the initial step in what could possibly escalate into a broader global trade conflict, says Sanisha Packirisamy, chief economist at Momentum Investments.
Within the next few months, imports from the European Union are expected to be targeted, with the possibility for a universal tariff thereafter. Given that exports to the US constitute roughly a fifth of Canada’s and Mexico’s GDP, these tariffs could push both economies into recession later this year. Furthermore, the resulting inflation jump in the US is projected to be faster and more significant than anticipated, reducing the Federal Reserve's window for cutting interest rates further. Kaya FM
GUEST: Natashia Soopal, Senior Executive: Ethics Standards and Public Sector, South African Institute of Chartered Accountants.
As South Africa prepares for the Minister of Finance, Mr Enoch Godongwana’s upcoming budget speech, the nation faces a crucial question. What kind of budget will we hear, and how will it shape the future? This isn’t just another financial update—it’s a pivotal moment, especially in the wake of US President Donald Trump’s recent announcement to cut funding to South Africa.
This raises fresh concerns about economic stability in an already struggling economy and further straining diplomatic relations - should this serve as a wakeup call for us?
Trump’s actions highlight the country’s precarious dependency on foreign aid, particularly in areas like HIV/AIDS treatment. In 2023, the US provided about $440 million through PEPFAR, covering 17% of South Africa’s HIV/AIDS programme. The potential loss of this funding would devastate healthcare delivery, threatening clinics, nursing staff, and the distribution of life-saving medications.
Even more concerning is the R46.25 billion in irregular healthcare spending over the past five years, alongside R5.55 billion in unauthorised expenditures. These financial inefficiencies not only compromise the already struggling healthcare system but raise questions about the long-term viability of crucial programmes should foreign aid be withdrawn. Kaya FM
GUEST: Chantal Seraho - SAA Country Manager: DRC
SAA stands uniquely positioned to be the airline, strategically connecting key mining hubs across the continent and beyond.
An airline at the southern tip of Africa capable of seamlessly flying investors from Australia to Southern Africa, West Africa, and East Africa. Our strategic network also strengthens access for mining companies operating in West Africa, Central Africa, and key regions such as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Lubumbashi.
With the recent launch of flights to Dar Es Salaam in January, SAA now provides seamless connectivity for those looking to tap into Tanzania’s rich mineral resources. Furthermore, our cargo services enhance our role in the mining sector by efficiently transporting essential equipment and materials to these critical hubs, solidifying our position as a key enabler of Africa’s mining industry. Kaya FM
GUEST – Christo de Wit, Luno’s SA country manager.
We take a closer look at Luno’s incredible rise—from a bold startup to becoming South Africa’s leading crypto company. We reflect on the challenges, breakthroughs, and market shifts that shaped its journey in the ever-evolving world of digital assets.
What did it take to build trust in crypto within a rapidly changing regulatory landscape? How did Luno navigate global expansion while staying rooted in South Africa’s fintech ecosystem? And what’s next for crypto adoption in the region? Kaya FM
GUEST - Peter Attard Montalto - Managing Director and Global Lead for Capital Markets, Political Economy, and JET at Krutham
We take a deep dive into why SA is on Trump’s radar and what it reveals about shifting global geopolitics. From economic interests to political narratives, we explore how changing international perceptions shape foreign policy, business, and investment decisions.
How does this attention impact South Africa’s global standing? What are the potential risks and opportunities for businesses and policymakers? Join us as we unpack the bigger picture of geopolitics, influence, and economic strategy. Kaya FM
GUEST – Bongiwe Kunene – Managing Director of Banking Association SA
A South African banking-lobby group wants the government to complete a review of a charter created to address inequalities brought about by apartheid to ensure it gives an accurate gauge of lenders’ performance.
The government began the review of the so-called Financial Sector Code in 2018, but has yet to complete work on the checks that track investment to support transformation, or greater participation by the Black majority, according to the Banking Association of South Africa. Kaya FM
GUEST - Hugo Pienaar – Chief Economist, Minerals Council South Africa
The South African mining industry remained under pressure in 2024 as lower non-gold commodity prices and remaining logistical bottlenecks diluted the positive impact stemming from the absence of mining load curtailment since end-March 2024.
This meant that from depressed levels in 2023 there was only a marginal improvement in real mining production during 2024.
Notwithstanding the remaining mining sector challenges, in its annual Facts & Figures 2024 booklet summarising the performance of the South African mining industry and its contribution to society and the country. Kaya FM
GUEST - Kgosi Leruo Molotlegi – Royal Bafokeng Nation King.
On the sidelines of the mining indaba, KayaBiz caught up with His Majesty, the King of the Royal Bafokeng Nation, to explore how his people have successfully built a future beyond mining. With only 4% of the community directly dependent on mining, the Bafokeng have developed a long-term vision that ensures sustainability, resilience, and prosperity for generations to come.
We discuss the importance of diversification, the strategic structures put in place to safeguard the community’s future, and why similar success stories remain rare in other mining communities. Despite the King’s openness to sharing insights and offering counsel, why has it been so difficult to replicate Phokeng’s model elsewhere? Kaya FM
GUEST – Peter Major - Director a Mining at Modern Corporate Solutions
As Day 2 of Mining Indaba comes to a close, the conversations have been rich with insights, commitments, and bold visions for the future of the mining industry. From sustainability pledges to discussions on community impact and technological advancements, industry leaders have set ambitious goals. But as the conference energy fades, an essential question remains: How do we ensure these commitments translate into real, measurable change?
In this conversation, we’ll reflect on the key takeaways from today’s discussions and explore how stakeholders—governments, investors, communities, and industry players—can hold the mining sector accountable beyond the conference stage. What mechanisms exist to track progress? How can transparency be enforced? And most importantly, how do we ensure that the voices of those most affected by mining operations continue to be heard long after the event ends. Kaya FM
GUEST - Vuyo Lee - Director: Marketing & Corporate Affairs at the JSE
In SA, there is approximately R4.5bn worth of unclaimed dividends ready to be claimed. Currently, about 309,900 South Africans are eligible for unclaimed dividends from companies like Old Mutual, Sasol and Naspers, to name a few.
Claiming unclaimed dividends is not just about accessing funds; it can significantly enhance your financial wellbeing and maximize your investments.
Unclaimed dividends and their underlying shares can be used to bolster your investment portfolio and meet your financial goals.
Several prominent companies with shareholder bases of unclaimed dividends have joined the Johannesburg Stock Exchange's (JSE) charge to financially empower South Africans by providing resources and guidance on how to claim their rightful benefits. Kaya FM
GUEST - Danie Cronje, Senior Vice President for Business Building at Sasol
Sasol and Anglo American have partnered to develop green diesel, something the two companies believe would be "transformative" given the potential to cut fuel emissions by as much as 90%.
In a signing ceremony which took place on the sidelines of the African Mining Indaba on Tuesday, Sasol and Anglo entered into a Joint Development Agreement to pilot the production of feedstock for renewable diesel. Kaya FM
GUEST – Chantal Marx, Head of Investment Research at FNB Wealth and Investments
Last year was a strong year in global equity markets, with the perennially underperforming JSE also delivering a decent showing.
The S&P 500 had a bumper year after a very strong 2023 as the AI revolution continued to give impetus to the technology sector and embedded the “Magnificent Seven” as the clear winners in the AI race. The Chinese market showed some improvement despite continued uncertainty around the structural constraints facing that economy and what has to date been an underwhelming response by authorities to reignite growth.
South Africa company valuations are less attractive this year relative to the start of last year, although we still see upside in certain sections of the SA Inc basket and, notably, the rand hedge counters seem to offer very good value. While there is still very strong thematic thrust behind the US-based technology stocks, these companies now look expensive, and this has prompted us to look for better value elsewhere. Kaya FM
GUEST – Charles Stuart, PwC South Africa Entertainment and Media Partner
Africa’s entertainment and media industry expected to outpace global growth in the next five years, driven by internet advertising and streaming services Entertainment & Media (E&M) markets across South Africa, Nigeria and Kenya are showing resilience against a backdrop of global macroeconomic instability, with all three leading African markets seeing revenue growth ahead of the global average (3.9% compound annual growth rate through 2028). These are some of the key highlights emerging from PwC’s newly launched Africa Entertainment and Media Outlook 2024–2028 report. Under the theme Resilience and reinvention, we provide an in-depth look at the drivers and inhibitors of E&M sector growth across the continent, and delve into the latest trends and insights that are set to shape the market over the next five years. Kaya FM
GUEST - Dr Roelof Botha - Economist
The results of the most recent Altron FinTech Household Resilience Index (AFHRI) were released this month, confirming the continued financial pressure on South African households, mainly due to the high interest rates over the past two years, which have raised the average debt cost burden to its highest level in 15 years.
According to economist Dr Roelof Botha, who compiles the index on behalf of Altron FinTech, the restrictive monetary policy stance by the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) has come at a huge cost to the economy. Botha says: “One of the most worrying trends in the latest AFHRI is the year-on-year decline of 3.3% in the ratio of household income to debt costs. Merely two years ago, in the first quarter of 2022, households were sacrificing 6.7% of their disposable incomes to pay for debt costs. This ratio has since increased by 36%, with households now having to spend 9.1% of their disposable incomes on servicing debt.” Kaya FM
In a shocking announcement, U.S. President Donald Trump has declared that all future funding to South Africa will be halted until a full investigation into land expropriation is completed. Citing concerns over alleged human rights violations, Trump took to Truth Social to condemn the policy, calling it a “massive human rights violation” that the U.S. "won’t stand for.”
But what does this decision mean for South Africa’s economy, global relations, and the controversial Expropriation Bill that just became law? We unpack the implications with Professor Adrian Saville, an expert in economics, finance, and strategy at the Gordon Institute of Business Science. Kaya FM
How technological advancements can facilitate the reduction of carbon emissions across various parts of the supply chain.
GUEST – Gerhard Bolt - Principal, Head of Decarbonisation, Europe, Middle East and Africa at dss+
The world's premier mining conference is underway, and we’re diving into the critical conversations shaping the future of the industry. In this episode, we explore how cutting-edge technology is revolutionizing mining operations, driving efficiency, and—most importantly—reducing carbon emissions across the supply chain.
From AI-driven energy optimization to electrification of heavy machinery and blockchain for transparent, sustainable sourcing, we unpack the innovations that are setting the industry on a greener path. Join us as we speak with industry experts, tech pioneers, and sustainability leaders to understand how mining can embrace digital transformation without compromising environmental responsibility. Kaya FM
After an eventful week at Mining Indaba, we reflect on the biggest takeaways from the conference. From critical discussions on sustainability and responsible mining to the role of policy, technology, and investment in shaping the industry’s future, we unpack the key moments that could define the next era of mining in Africa.
What are the biggest challenges facing the sector? How are industry leaders tackling decarbonization, resource nationalism, and community engagement? And most importantly—what does the future hold for mining on the continent? Kaya FM
GUEST – Victor Kgomoeswana - Africa expert
Trade relations between South Africa and Rwanda have grown significantly over the years, shaped by diplomatic engagement, economic policies, and regional trade agreements. As two of Africa’s fastest-growing economies, their bilateral trade and investment activities present both opportunities and challenges.
In this interview, we unpack the current state of trade between the two nations, examining key sectors, policy frameworks, and areas for future collaboration. We’ll explore how businesses in both countries are navigating trade dynamics, what role regional blocs like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) play, and how diplomatic and economic ties are influencing trade flows. Kaya FM
GUEST – Nosi Mzamo – CEO of State Diamond Trader.
From the discovery of the first diamonds in the 19th century to its status as a leading player in diamond mining, we dive into how the country's rich diamond heritage has shaped global markets and trends. We’ll unpack South Africa’s influence on diamond production, its impact on global supply chains, and the evolving challenges it faces today, including environmental and ethical concerns. Join us as we examine the country's lasting legacy and how it continues to sparkle in the global diamond landscape, despite shifts in the market and new players entering the scene. Kaya FM
We are in conversation with Clarence Nethengwe, the newly appointed CEO of OM Bank, the digital-first bank under Old Mutual's umbrella. Clarence shares the exciting vision for OM Bank, a game-changing approach to banking that aims to revolutionize the customer experience in South Africa. From its roots in Old Mutual Finance to the long-awaited rollout in 2025, Clarence takes us through OM Bank's innovative features, including its no-physical-ATM approach, user-centric app, and focus on serving underserved communities.
Clarence also opens up about his personal motivation behind championing digital banking, reflecting on an experience that reshaped his view on customer dignity. He dives into the strategic decisions that led to the creation of OM Bank, its target audience, and the future expansion plans, including the potential to offer home loans and business banking down the road. Join us as we explore the future of digital banking and how OM Bank plans to compete in a crowded market with its bold, customer-first approach. Kaya FM
GUEST - Esteani Marx, Head of Real Estate at Lightstone.
We take a closer look at the South African property market in 2024 through key data insights. From the top-selling suburbs in the Western Cape to notable high-end sales in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, we break down where the big money was spent, with Bishopscourt, Clifton, and Bantry Bay leading the pack.
Discover trends in property types, with freehold properties making up over half of all transactions, and how younger first-time buyers (ages 30-45) are outpacing repeat buyers. We also explore the overall stability of residential sales, with more than 50,000 new units hitting the market, as well as the growth in non-residential transactions, which surpassed 2023 levels. Kaya FM
GUEST – Solly Bellingan, Head of Marketing at BankservAfrica.
The December 2024 holidays lived up to its reputation as a peak shopping month, with spending showing healthy signs of growth, according to the latest data from BankservAfrica. “The continued year-on-year seasonal uptick highlights the December holidays as a significant contributor to the economy,” says Solly Bellingan, Head of Marketing at BankservAfrica. “The month also reflected steady spending patterns following Black Friday's strong performance.” Kaya FM
GUEST - Thabani Ndwandwe, Chief Risk Officer at Standard Bank
The latest interest rate cut could mark a turning point for South Africa’s residential property market. The South African Reserve Bank has reduced the repo rate by another 25 basis points, bringing the prime lending rate down to 11%. This is the third rate cut since September 2024, and the first time the prime lending rate has been at this level since May 2023.
The two rate cuts introduced at the end of 2024 appear to have already sparked some recovery in residential property activity. Standard Bank observed a notable increase in home loan applications between Q3 and Q4 2024, reflecting improving buyer sentiment. This, combined with better economic outlooks, has encouraged sellers to price properties more competitively and motivated buyers to take action in select regions. Kaya FM
GUEST – Ronnie Mukwada and Boitumelo Moroe – Co-Founders of ECU Express
Whether you drive a car, truck, or bus, your vehicle’s Engine Control Unit (ECU) is at the heart of its performance. When something goes wrong, it can be frustrating and expensive – but that’s where ECU Express steps in. With two branches, one in Randburg and the other in Bedfordview, ECUExpress specialises in testing, repairing, supplying and reprogramming ECUs, ensuring that your vehicle stays on the road, hassle-free. Kaya FM
GUEST - Lorato Tshenkeng, CEO of Decode Communications.
In this conversation, we dive into the latest findings from the South African Government Leaders on X Report 2025. We’re joined by Lorato Tshenkeng, CEO of Decode Communications, to discuss how government leaders are using X (formerly Twitter) to engage with South African citizens. The report highlights key trends in transparency, accountability, and citizen trust in the context of the country’s ongoing socio-economic challenges and its first Government of National Unity.
We’ll unpack the top performers in digital engagement, explore the credibility gaps, and examine the impact of crisis-driven communication. With key ministers experiencing significant growth on the platform, we explore what this means for the future of leadership and citizen interaction in South Africa. Kaya FM
GUEST – Collen Dlamini - Head of Public Affairs - Mining Indaba
The 2025 Investing in African Mining Indaba, scheduled from February 3 to 6 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, arrives at a pivotal moment for South Africa's mining sector. Themed "Future-Proofing African Mining, Today!", this year's conference seeks to address the pressing challenges confronting the industry. Illegal mining has escalated into a significant threat, undermining economic stability and exacerbating social inequalities.
Recent incidents, such as the crisis in Stilfontein, have highlighted the severity of this issue. Additionally, the potential closure of major steel plants in Newcastle and Vereeniging due to high operational costs and competition from inexpensive imports poses a risk to thousands of jobs and investor confidence.
The Mining Indaba serves as a crucial platform for industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to collaborate on sustainable solutions. By fostering public-private partnerships and emphasizing infrastructure development, the conference aims to enhance the sector's attractiveness to investors and ensure its long-term viability. As the industry navigates these complex challenges, the 2025 Mining Indaba's focus on strategic leadership and innovation is essential for shaping a resilient and prosperous future for South Africa's mining sector. Kaya FM
GUEST - Keillen Ndlovu is an independent property analyst.
The SA listed property sector was again the best performing asset class last year. The SA listed property index (J253) achieved 29% total returns (income and capital) in 2024, a significant increase compared to 10.1% in 2023. This was ahead of bonds (Albi), the second-best performing asset class, for the second year running, with returns of 17% and 9.7% respectively over the same periods. Kaya FM
GUEST – Zareena Camroodien, Head of Fund Governance and Trustee Conduct at the FSCA.
The FSCA said in a statement that it had published the names of 2,330 employers that had contravened section 13A of the Pension Funds Act, which prescribes the manner in which the payment of contributions and other benefits should be made to a retirement fund. The FSCA had the names of 7,770 employers that had contravened the act from end-December 2023 and had decided to publish 2,330 of them.
These included 2,003 employers which had outstanding contributions that amounted to more than R50,000 and had been outstanding for a period of more than five months; 200 employers that had outstanding contributions of more than R50,000 but the last contribution date had not been provided; 113 employers whose outstanding contributions were less than R50,000, but where the outstanding late payment interest was more than R50,000 and had been
outstanding for more than five months; and 20 employers that had not contributed since the date of participation in the fund. The balance of 5,440 employers were not included in the publication as they did not meet the stipulated thresholds. Kaya FM
Guest - Johann Els, Chief Economist at Old Mutual Group and Herschel Jawitz, CEO – Jawitz Properties
In tomorrow's highly anticipated meeting, economists are predicting a 25-basis point interest rate cut from the South African Reserve Bank (SARB). In this episode, we dive into what this potential rate drop means for consumers, businesses, and the economy at large. We'll break down how inflation trends, economic growth, and global conditions have influenced this expected move and what it could signal for South Africa's financial landscape in the months ahead. Kaya FM
GUEST – Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited
In today’s fast-paced and competitive market, securing investment can be the lifeblood of a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME). But what truly sets investable businesses apart from the rest? And what are funding houses and investors looking for when deciding where to put their money? In this interview, we delve into the key factors that make an SME attractive to investors, exploring everything from financial performance and growth potential to leadership qualities and market differentiation.
Our guest, Jeremy Lang, Managing Director at Business Partners Limited, brings deep insights into the mindset of funding houses, shedding light on the specific metrics and qualities they prioritize when evaluating potential investments. Kaya FM
GUEST - Meagan Fraser, Tax manager at Allan Gray
Following the introduction of the two-pot retirement system last year, your view of, and behaviour related to, your retirement investments may have changed. If you have made a withdrawal from the savings component of your retirement fund during the 2024/2025 tax year, the upcoming end of the tax year this February presents an opportunity to replenish the withdrawal.
Meagan Fraser, Tax manager at Allan Gray, joins Kaya Biz to discuss how long-term investors can maximise the tax benefits provided for via retirement and tax-free investment products within the context of a two-pot world. Kaya FM
GUEST – Advaita Naidoo, Africa MD at Jack Hammer Global
Building your reputation and network has always been sound career advice, but in today’s unprecedentedly competitive environment, have taken on a new significance as they could become instant deal-makers or breakers when job hunting, a leadership expert says. “The traditional CV submission and social media job search process is in disarray, which means that the cultivation of a strong network and stellar professional reputation that precedes you is more important than ever,” says Advaita Naidoo, Africa MD at Jack Hammer, Africa’s largest executive search firm. Kaya FM
GUEST - Roy Retief, Chief Operating Officer: SAFPS
Revitalised from their end-of-year vacation, South Africans typically tackle the new year with gusto and renewed vigour. It is also a time when students who matriculated the year before, start the next phase of their journey as they enter into universities and colleges eager to further their education. Kaya FM
GUEST - Patrick Kelly, Chief Director for Price Statistics at STATS SA
Stats SA has shaken up the basket of goods and services used to measure consumer inflation. The products in the basket are updated periodically to better reflect shifts and trends in consumer spending. Product weights are also adjusted.
The facelift includes adding 71 new products, removing 53 products and reorganising 29 products (through merging, splitting or reclassification). In total, there are now 391 products in the basket, down from 396. Kaya FM
In this conversation, we share the inspiring story of Zwelakhe Mnguni, who overcame immense challenges to become the Chief Investment Officer and co-founder of Benguela Global Fund Managers.
Growing up in a Sebokeng squatter camp, Mnguni worked as a security guard for four years to fund his studies before rising through the ranks of the investment world. From humble beginnings to managing R7.2 billion in assets, Mnguni’s journey is one of perseverance, strategic thinking, and a commitment to quality investing. We’ll dive into his experiences, the lessons he’s learned through the 2008 crisis, his thoughts on industry transformation, and his vision for Benguela’s future.
Tune in to hear how Mnguni turned adversity into opportunity, and what’s next for this remarkable leader in the asset management space. Kaya FM
GUEST - Ernest North – CEO of Naked Insurance
South African insurtech Naked has secured $38 million (about R700 million) in its latest funding round as it continues to redefine insurance through technology-driven convenience, transparency and cost-effectiveness. The Series B2 funding round was joined by global impact investor BlueOrchard, and also saw increased support from existing backers Hollard, Yellowwoods, International Finance Corporation (IFC), and Germany’s development finance institution (DEG). Kaya FM
GUEST – Fifi Peters – CNBC Africa host and Dhiren Mansingh, Head: Business Transactional Banking at Investec
We turn our attention to South Africa's presence at the World Economic Forum in Davos. With a delegation of business leaders, government officials, and innovators, Team South Africa is making its mark on the global stage, bringing a powerful message of resilience, opportunity, and sustainable growth. From addressing the challenges of economic inequality and climate change to showcasing the country's potential as an investment hub, South Africa is positioning itself as a key player in shaping the future of global economies.
We explore the key themes they’re communicating, how they’re engaging with global leaders, and what this means for South Africa’s role on the world stage. Kaya FM
GUEST - Loyiso Boyce – MD of Clyrofor
Swiping bank cards at toll gates is being phased out due to fraud, while a major toll road operator has also banned all debit card payments. On Monday, Nedbank confirmed its debit cards have been barred from offline swipe transactions at toll gates, which it said would help protect clients against fraudulent activity. Swipe card transactions are more dangerous than tap payments.
Illegal devices can be installed inside point-of-sale terminals that capture information from a card's magnetic strip. Debit cards also allow for offline transactions, with transaction billing taking place later. But with offline transactions, there is no real-time verification and authorisation, which is exploited by fraudsters. Kaya FM
GUEST - Peter Major, a director a Mining at Modern Corporate Solutions
We dive into the surprising factors driving the decline in platinum jewellery demand. A new report from the World Platinum Investment Council reveals how falling marriage rates across the globe, from the US to China, have contributed to a sharp downturn in platinum’s role in the jewellery market.
As societal pressures to marry ease and consumer preferences shift toward experiences over material goods, platinum jewellery has taken a hit. But there’s hope on the horizon. We explore how rising gold prices, new technologies in production, and a shift in demand from non-Chinese markets are set to boost platinum’s jewellery appeal. Will platinum’s resurgence outshine its white gold rival? Kaya FM
GUEST - Avian Bell – the CEO of Quantumed
In recent months, South Africa has witnessed an alarming rise in the sale of counterfeit condoms, posing significant health risks to consumers. These fake products, often sold at discounted prices or through informal channels, are substandard and fail to meet the safety and quality standards required to effectively prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unwanted pregnancies.
Health experts and authorities have issued urgent warnings to the public, urging individuals to be vigilant and only purchase condoms from trusted, regulated sources. The surge in counterfeit condom sales highlights the need for increased consumer awareness and tighter regulation to ensure sexual health protection for all. Kaya FM
GUEST – Christa Klokow - Senior Manager: Companies and Close Corporations at Companies and Intellectual Property Commission.
The Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) has initiated a large volume of deregistrations due to continued low compliance with Annual Returns, Beneficial Ownership, and other obligations under the Companies Act.
The high level of inactive business among companies significantly contributes to low compliance levels, therefore companies are advised to register the companies only when there is a genuine economic or business opportunity. Kaya FM
GUEST - Luyanda Vilakazi - Founder of Punture Proof
Luyanda Vilakazi is an entrepreneur and the founder of Puncture Proof, a company that makes puncture-proof tires. Vilakazi's tires are designed to never need to be refilled with air. Kaya FM
GUEST - Dr Elna Moolman, Standard Bank Group Head of South Africa Macroeconomic Research
Consumer inflation increased for a second consecutive month, rising to 3,0% in December from 2,9% in November and 2,8% in October. Kaya FM
GUEST - Craig Gradidge - Co-founder and Financial Planner at Gradidge-Mahura Investments
We are exploring the topic of BEE (Black Economic Empowerment) share schemes and whether they have truly delivered real value for shareholders. BEE share schemes were introduced as part of South Africa’s broader economic transformation agenda, aiming to redress the racial inequalities of the past by enabling black South Africans to gain ownership in major companies. The goal was not just economic empowerment but also to create a more inclusive and sustainable economy. Kaya FM
GUEST – Yatish Narsi, Chief Marketing Officer at Showmax and MultiChoice South Africa
Streaming services’ move into live streaming sports and concerts is a significant shift in the entertainment and media landscape. This strategy has been driven by several factors, reflecting both changing consumer preferences and the evolving nature of content distribution. Kaya FM
GUEST – Duma Gqubule is research associate at the Social Policy Initiative
The South African government plans to establish a R100 billion Transformation Fund to foster economic transformation by supporting black-owned businesses and Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs). This initiative, outlined by Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition Parks Tau in a recent parliamentary Q&A, will be financed through private sector contributions in alignment with Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) regulations and other mechanisms under the Competition Act. Kaya FM
GUEST - Arthur Goldstuck - CEO, World Wide Worx
President Trump has signed an executive order granting TikTok a 75-day extension to comply with a law that requires a sale or ban of the platform. He says during that time, the US will not enforce the law passed by Congress last year and signed by former President Joe Biden. The order was among a slew of directives Trump signed on Monday evening. Kaya FM
GUEST - Sinesipho Maninjwa - Independent analyst
Ithala Bank, a state-owned bank in South Africa, has had its fair share of challenges over the years, both in terms of governance and financial stability. The difficulties the bank has faced can be traced back to a combination of internal management issues, external economic conditions, and broader systemic problems in the South African financial sector. Kaya FM
We dive into South Africa’s exciting participation at the 2025 World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, where Team South Africa is ready to champion a year of growth, solidarity, and global leadership. As South Africa takes on the historic role of G20 President, we discuss the nation’s bold economic reforms and how it is positioning itself as a resilient, dynamic economy. Join us as we hear from Busi Mavuso, CEO of Business Leadership SA, and Zureida Ebrahim, COO of Old Mutual, who are part of Team South Africa at Davos. We explore how business and government leaders are working together to unlock the country’s potential and strengthen its global standing. Kaya FM
GUEST - Estani Marx - Lightstone business development executive
Only a third of estate agents in South Africa reached their sales targets in terms of volume and value in 2024, slightly down from 2023, but expectations are high for 2025, according to the property market intelligence company Lightstone Property. Lightstone business development executive Estani Marx said their latest survey showed that 86% of estate agents anticipate they will reach volume targets this year, and 85% believe they will reach value targets. 86% of SA’s estate agents anticipate reaching volume targets in 2025 with 85% confident they will reach value targets, says Lightstone. Kaya FM
GUEST - Eunice Sibiya - Independent Financial Educator, Coach and Speaker AND Renier Kriek, Managing Director at Sentinel Homes
Access to finance is vital for one to take part in the economy and start accruing assets that translate into wealth over the long term. Those with a regular salary and decent credit record are often able to access credit fairly easily. However, being self-employed, a freelancer or commission earner is a different ball game altogether. Anyone who has a business or earns money from multiple sources without having a full-time position knows how difficult it is to access finance. To some it may even seem impossible to get a home loan. Kaya FM
GUEST - Mamokete Lijane is global markets strategist at Standard Bank CIB
We take a deep dive into the coverage surrounding President Donald Trump's second inauguration and explore what his return to office means for Africa. From the policies that shaped his first term to the potential shifts in U.S.-Africa relations, we analyze how Trump's leadership could influence trade, diplomacy, and security across the continent.
Will his "America First" agenda continue to shape foreign policy? And what does it mean for African nations navigating the complexities of global geopolitics? Tune in for insights from experts, political analysts, and on-the-ground perspectives that break down the implications for Africa in the Trump era. Kaya FM
GUEST – Jan Vermeulen - Editor at Mybroadband
What Is a Meme Coin? Meme coins are cryptocurrencies inspired by internet memes, jokes, or cultural trends. Unlike Bitcoin or Ethereum, which focus on solving specific problems or enabling decentralized applications, meme coins often have limited utility. Their value is largely driven by community sentiment, social media hype, and celebrity endorsements. Popular examples include Dogecoin and Shiba Inu, which have gained immense popularity despite starting as jokes. Kaya FM
GUEST - Tembisa Fakude - Afrasid Senior Research Fellow and Director
We take a deep dive into the coverage surrounding President Donald Trump's second inauguration and explore what his return to office means for Africa. From the policies that shaped his first term to the potential shifts in U.S.-Africa relations, we analyze how Trump's leadership could influence trade, diplomacy, and security across the continent.
Will his "America First" agenda continue to shape foreign policy? And what does it mean for African nations navigating the complexities of global geopolitics? Tune in for insights from experts, political analysts, and on-the-ground perspectives that break down the implications for Africa in the Trump era Kaya FM
GUEST – Peter Major, a director a Mining at Modern Corporate Solutions
Abandoned mines in South Africa—a topic that has become increasingly urgent as the country grapples with the environmental and social consequences of decades of mining activity. South Africa's rich mining history has played a central role in shaping its economy, but the legacy of this industry has left behind thousands of abandoned mines, many of which are poorly managed or left entirely neglected. The environmental damage from these abandoned mines is far-reaching, including toxic water contamination, air pollution, and land degradation, all of which pose significant risks to local communities and ecosystems. What's more, the economic potential of rehabilitating these sites remains largely untapped. Kaya FM
GUEST – Clinical Psychologist Dr Khosi Jiyane
Scammers utilise human psychological prejudices to choose their victims, through various kinds of vulnerabilities such as not being thoughtful of the fact that one could get scammed or not being knowledgeable of technology and how easy it is to believe the legitimacy of everything people receive either on mail or via text. In this, one can easily fall prey to divulging sensitive information that scammers will use to their advantage resulting in the victim’s loss. Kaya FM
GUEST – Renai Moothilal – CEO of National Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufacturers (NAACAM)
The announced closure of AMSA's long steel production from the Newcastle blast furnace could significantly impact on the South African automotive sector, a cornerstone of the country's economy. A core supplier of speciality steel, AMSA has been central to automotive manufacturing, providing high-grade materials critical for components into vehicle production lines. Kaya FM
Gerrie Fourie, the CEO of Capitec Bank, join us. Under his visionary leadership, Capitec has grown into South Africa’s largest bank by customer base, a feat that reflects not only innovation in banking but also a deep understanding of the South African consumer.
From economic pressures to evolving consumer behaviour, we’ll explore what Capitec’s data tells us about the state of the South African economy and what 2024 holds for households, businesses, and communities. How is Capitec adapting to meet these demands, and what lessons has Gerrie Fourie learned during his tenure that continue to drive the bank’s success? Kaya FM
GUEST – Thabile Nkunjana – Agricultural Economist
As one of the world's leading producers of avocados, South Africa has seen a growing demand for its premium produce both domestically and internationally. However, recent reports suggest that the country is facing a shortage, which is raising concerns among farmers, suppliers, and consumers alike. Kaya FM
GUEST - Xhanti Payi – PwC Senior Economist
As the world watches the situation in the Middle East unfold, the prospect of a ceasefire brings with it hopes for a de-escalation of tensions, potentially stabilizing key global markets and providing relief to industries affected by the ongoing conflict. Kaya FM
GUEST – Banele Rewo - founder of Z2B Stokvel and Aquaponics,
Today, we profile Z2B Food & Beverage, a community-driven enterprise revolutionizing the food production and distribution landscape in South Africa.
Founded in 2023 and powered by the innovative Z2B Stokvel funding model, Z2B Food & Beverage has built a thriving ecosystem that includes a state-of-the-art meat processing plant, a retail platform, and an aquaponics farm based in Soweto. This unique value chain combines commercial aquaculture with meat processing to deliver premium, sustainable products while fostering local economic growth.
From providing halal-certified wholesale meat cuts to cultivating carp, catfish, and high-value crops through aquaponics, Z2B stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, sustainability, and shared prosperity. By working with small and medium-sized enterprises, the company supports entrepreneurship and aligns with government and private sector goals for economic development. Kaya FM
GUEST - Lesiba Mpya, Spokesperson for the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport
As the 2025 academic year kicks off, the Gauteng Department for Roads and Transport is sending a clear message to scholar transport operators ahead of the new school term. With the safety of learners a top priority the department is warning operators to ensure they are fully compliant with operating licensing, or face strict legal consequences.
Routine checks will be carried out to enforce these rules, and vehicles that aren't roadworthy or operators without the necessary licenses will be prohibited from transporting students. Kaya FM
GUEST – Allon Raiz - Raizcorp CEO
It's no surprise to learn that 35% of all loans made to SMMEs are in the form of personal loans, as these entrepreneurs find it too difficult to access funding as a business. Even more shocking is that, according to research, between 20 and 23% of SMMEs are not even registered with SARS. The more you delve into the statistics and research, the reasons as to why SMME struggle to gain access to funding becomes clear. Kaya FM
GUEST - Kirby Gordon, FlySafair chief marketing officer.
In recent days, FlySafair has found itself at the center of an investigation launched by the National Consumer Commission (NCC) over its overbooking practices, following complaints from passengers. While the airline has openly admitted to overbooking on social media, it stresses that this practice is common across the aviation industry, both locally and internationally, as a way to manage operations efficiently and maintain affordable fares.
To dive deeper into FlySafair's response and their stance on the ongoing investigation, we are joined today by Kirby Gordon, FlySafair chief marketing officer who will share more about the airline's perspective on the matter. Kaya FM
GUEST – Ruan Mare - Technical director at the Competition Commission.
South African retailers must use standardized pricing for fruit and vegetables and price per 100 grams to enable consumers to easily compare prices across different stores. This is a result of a Competition Commission investigation into the fresh produce market, which found that the majority of prices for fresh produce are not comparable between retailers from the perspective of a consumer.
The investigation was in response to allegations of anticompetitive conduct, including concerns over competition and market distortions. The commission’s food price monitoring reports have also highlighted concerning price increases and volatility in fresh produce markets. The inquiry assessed the fresh produce value chain from input level down to retail. Kaya FM
GUEST – Shaheed Mohamed - Head of Group Savings and Investments at Allan Gray.
A good education is one of the greatest gifts a parent can give their children. However, making this dream a reality requires a proactive approach to financial planning, particularly when considering an international education and dealing with foreign currency costs like tuition and living expenses. Shaheed Mohamed, head of Group Savings and Investments at Allan Gray, joins Kaya Biz to discuss how parents can leverage offshore investing to realise their aspirations. Kaya FM
GUEST -Paul Byrne, Head of Data Insights & Customer Success at Pnet
As we close the chapter on 2024, it’s clear that South Africa’s job market is undergoing dynamic changes. The latest Pnet Job Market Trends Report gives us an in-depth look at hiring activity, sector-specific demand, and regional recruitment trends, providing a roadmap for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.
2024 saw fluctuations in recruitment activity across key industries such as engineering, healthcare, IT, and finance. As we transition into 2025, questions arise: Where are the jobs of the future? Which sectors are driving growth, and how can businesses and job seekers position themselves for success? Kaya FM
GUEST – Hayley Parry, Money Coach and facilitator at 1Life’s Truth About Money
The 2nd annual Back-to-School survey conducted by 1Life Insurance has shed light on the significant challenges parents face during the back-to-school season, revealing a stressful and financially draining period for families across South Africa.
The survey found that 95% of parents experience stress when preparing for the new school year, highlighting the emotional toll that comes with balancing school-related expenses and other financial obligations. Kaya FM
GUEST – Siya Biniza – Executive Director - Political Economy Southern Africa
Ethiopia launched a securities exchange on Friday, in what officials touted as a milestone in Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's drive to open up the country's tightly controlled economy to private investment.
Just one company, Wegagen Bank, was initially listed on the Ethiopian Security Exchange (ESX), although ESX chief executive Tilahun Kassahun said he expected 90 companies to eventually join over the next 10 years Kaya FM
GUEST – Kagiso Lebethe - Senior Employee Relations Specialist
In today's fast-paced world, many people are seeking alternative ways to manage their finances, from participating in stokvels to engaging on side hustles and even turning to loan sharks for quick cash. While these options might seem like practical solutions, they can often come with serious legal implications and risks. Kaya FM
As we step into 2025, South Africa finds itself at the crossroads of new opportunities and persistent challenges. The global stage is buzzing with activity. Former U.S. President Donald Trump’s anticipated policies are sparking debates about their impact on global markets, while the G20 nations navigate shifting alliances and economic strategies.
Meanwhile, the expanded BRICS+ coalition, with South Africa at its core, continues to redefine its role as a powerhouse in the Global South, presenting both exciting opportunities and unique challenges for the country. Closer to home, the Government of National Unity (GNU) is steering South Africa through an era of political and economic recalibration, promising renewed focus on stability, investment, and structural reforms.
But how will these plans translate into tangible economic progress for citizens and businesses? Kaya FM
GUEST: Andrew Bahlmann is CEO: corporate & advisory at Deal Leaders International.
The local landscape for mergers and acquisitions (M&A) is poised for significant transformation in the coming years, particularly within emerging African markets. With increasing economic growth, a rising middle class and an evolving regulatory environment, Africa’s economies are attracting substantial attention from global investors. Kaya FM
GUEST - Morne Seaman, president of the Newcastle Business Chamber
The closure of ArcelorMittal South Africa’s long steel business marks a significant turning point for the country’s industrial landscape, with far-reaching consequences that go beyond the factory floor. In this conversation, we dive into the economic ripple effect that this decision will have on local communities, workers, suppliers, and the broader steel industry. What does the shutdown mean for South Africa's manufacturing sector and its industrial future? We explore the immediate and long-term impacts on jobs, local economies, and the country’s broader economic recovery efforts. Kaya FM
GUEST - Elias Monage – President of the Steel and Engineering Industries Federation of Southern Africa (Seisfa)
The closure of ArcelorMittal South Africa’s long steel business marks a significant turning point for the country’s industrial landscape, with far-reaching consequences that go beyond the factory floor. In this conversation, we dive into the economic ripple effect that this decision will have on local communities, workers, suppliers, and the broader steel industry. What does the shutdown mean for South Africa's manufacturing sector and its industrial future? We explore the immediate and long-term impacts on jobs, local economies, and the country’s broader economic recovery efforts. Kaya FM
GUEST – David van Wyk - Mining analyst
llegal mining has become a growing crisis in South Africa, posing significant risks to the economy, the environment, and community safety. This shadow industry not only undermines the country’s legitimate mining operations but also fuels criminal networks and costs the state billions in lost revenue.
Despite years of discussions and piecemeal interventions, the issue remains unresolved, prompting the question: Will South Africa finally take decisive action to address illegal mining? What is the economic impact of illegal mining, the policy gaps that allow it to persist, and what steps need to be taken to tackle this complex issue. Kaya FM
GUEST – Myles Waldeck - Head of M&A Buy-Side at Merchantec Capital
The Merchantec CEO Confidence Index has recorded a 2% decrease between Q3 2024 and Q4 2024, reaching a score of 53.9. Despite this decline, 68% of CEOs still anticipate South Africa's GDP growth rate for 2025 to be 1.5%, while 32% expect it to exceed 1.5%. The Merchantec CEO Confidence Index, which consists of five components, collates views from CEOs of top South African companies on a quarterly basis and has provided a leading indicator into how business leaders perceive local market conditions and the economy going forward, by sector since 2009. Kaya FM
GUEST – Prudence Moilwa, Head of Complaints and Investigations at the National Consumer Commission
In a move that has sparked significant public interest, the National Consumer Commission (NCC) has announced an investigation into FlySafair, one of South Africa’s leading low-cost airlines, over allegations of overbooking passengers. This practice, which has been criticized for its impact on consumer rights and satisfaction, has raised important questions about the balance between airline profitability and customer fairness. To shed light on the NCC’s decision and the broader implications of this investigation, we are joined by a National Consumer Commission representative on the commission’s concerns, the legal and ethical dimensions of overbooking, and what this probe could mean for South Africa’s aviation industry and its passengers. Kaya FM
GUEST – Jan Vermeulen - Editor at Mybroadband
Now we turn our focus to the dynamic world of cryptocurrency—a space that continues to evolve at lightning speed. 2024 has been a pivotal year for crypto globally and here in South Africa. From regulatory shifts to the rise of innovative blockchain applications and changing investor sentiment, the crypto landscape has been marked by both challenges and opportunities. As we look toward 2025, the big questions remain: What lessons can we take from the past year? And what’s next for crypto in South Africa and beyond? Kaya FM
Ssanyu Sematimba is a trailblazer in Africa's creative economy, transforming art and innovation into drivers of sustainable development. As the Head of the Creative Arts and Events Department at the African Leadership Academy (ALA), Ssanyu is passionate about making creative education accessible across the continent. Her work aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education), empowering young Africans with the skills to thrive in the ever-evolving future of work.
With over a decade of experience, Ssanyu has founded initiatives like the Afrikan Collective and the UMUZI Pan-African Creative Festival, platforms that nurture entrepreneurial talent and foster collaboration within the creative sector. Her programs equip young creatives with the tools to monetize their talents while staying true to the cultural authenticity that defines Africa.
In this interview, we delve into Ssanyu’s visionary approach to creativity as a business opportunity, her commitment to transforming education, and her mission to elevate Africa’s creative industries on the global stage. Kaya FM
GUEST – Asif Hassam, Chief Technology Officer at Zaio
As matriculants eagerly await their results, the question of "what's next?" looms large for many. In an era where traditional career paths are being redefined, the South African technology sector stands out as a beacon of opportunity.
With a skyrocketing demand for tech skills across industries and a growing emphasis on practical experience over lengthy academic qualifications, the landscape is ripe for ambitious young people ready to embrace the future. Today, we’re joined by Chief Technology
Officer at Zaio Asif Hassam, an expert in tech education and workforce development, to discuss how matriculants can seize the opportunities presented by South Africa’s tech revolution. Kaya FM
GUEST – Catherine Fourie, Head of CPD Consortium
While many of us love giving and receiving gifts, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) is equally interested in these acts of kindness—especially when they come in the form of large sums of money, luxury cars, or shares. Under South African tax law, donations
above certain thresholds can trigger tax obligations for the donor, with updated compliance requirements now in effect. From detailed descriptions of gifts to supporting documentation, SARS is tightening its grip on donations to close the tax compliance gap.
We’re joined by Head of CPD Consortium, Catherine Fourie to delve into the complexities of donations tax. We’ll explore what constitutes a taxable donation, how exemptions work, and the steps donors need to take to stay compliant. Plus, we’ll discuss SARS’
renewed focus on trust structures and the potential pitfalls for those who overlook their tax responsibilities. Kaya FM
GUEST – Phakamile Hlubi Majola – NUMSA Spokesperson
The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (Numsa) is stepping up to fight the closure of ArcelorMittal South Africa’s long-steel plants, a move that could result in the loss of up to 3,500 jobs. Numsa has expressed deep concern over the potential impact
of these closures on workers, local communities, and the broader manufacturing and industrial sectors. The union is calling for urgent government intervention, as they believe that the closure of these plants would not only exacerbate the already high levels
of unemployment and inequality but also hinder the country’s industrialization efforts. Kaya FM
GUEST – Angela Beukes - Head of Marketing at PEP
We shine a spotlight on a groundbreaking initiative that’s set to make back-to-school shopping a little easier for South African families. In an innovative collaboration, PEP and FNB have launched a campaign offering school shoes for just 99 cents—a deal that
seems almost too good to be true! Starting from December 26, families with FNB cards can benefit from this incredible offer, which allows them to purchase PEP’s Student Prince Synthetic school shoes, normally priced at R129.99, for less than R1.
This partnership is a first-of-its-kind effort aimed at easing the financial burden of school preparation for parents across the country. Today, we’re joined by PEP’s Head of Marketing Angela Beukes to delve into the details of this initiative, its impact on
communities, and the broader significance of such collaborations during challenging economic times Kaya FM
GUEST – Chad Thomas- IRS forensic investigator
Capitec, the nation’s largest bank by customer base, recently faced significant administrative penalties amounting to R56 million. These sanctions were imposed by the South African Reserve Bank’s Prudential Authority following a series of inspections conducted
in 2021 and 2022. The penalties stem from Capitec's non-compliance with the Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FICA), which ensures financial institutions implement stringent anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing measures.
Key issues included inadequate customer due diligence, failures in identifying beneficial owners, delayed reporting of suspicious transactions, and deficiencies in automated transaction monitoring. Kaya FM
GUEST – Phelisa Nkomo – Development Economist
2025 is here! But what does the economic landscape hold for South Africa? Kaya FM
In this insightful episode, we sit down with the CEO of Naked Insurance, to delve into the ever-evolving landscape of insurance in South Africa. As a pioneer in digital insurance, Ernest North shares their unique perspective on the industry's challenges and opportunities in 2024.
From navigating economic uncertainties to embracing technological advancements, we explore the key trends shaping the future of insurance. Discover how Naked Insurance is redefining the industry with innovative solutions and customer-centric approaches. Kaya FM
GUEST - Paul Gerard, Managing Director of Flanagan & Gerard Property
The festive season is traditionally a peak period for retailers. However, with changing consumer behaviors and economic challenges, the retail landscape has evolved. We are joined on the line by Paul Gerard, Managing Director of Flanagan & Gerard Property Group to discuss the foot traffic at Fourways Mall during this festive season and to explore the factors influencing consumer spending habits. Kaya FM
GUEST – Khaya Sithole - Independent Analyst and F1 Supporter
Hosting a Formula 1 Grand Prix is a major undertaking with significant economic and cultural implications. We speak with Independent Analyst and F1 Supporter, Khaya Sithole to discuss the challenges and opportunities of bringing F1 to Africa. We'll delve into topics such as infrastructure development, economic impact, and the overall fan experience. Kaya FM
GUEST – Justin van Wyk - Chief Executive Officer at Big Concerts
From securing artists to managing logistics, putting on a successful concert is a complex undertaking. We'll be speaking with Justin van Wyk, CEO of Big Concerts, to learn about the behind-the-scenes work that goes into hosting big music concerts in South Africa. We'll use the recent Chris Brown concert as a case study to explore the challenges, triumphs, and the future of the live music industry. Kaya FM
Jan Vermeulen - Editor at Mybroadband
In this episode, we delve into the rollercoaster ride of Bitcoin in 2024, with a specific focus on its impact on South Africa. We discuss the price fluctuations, regulatory landscape, and growing adoption of Bitcoin in South Africa. We'll explore the potential of Bitcoin to revolutionize finance in South Africa and its role in mitigating economic challenges. Kaya FM
GUEST - Kelvin Emmanuel – Economist
In this conversation, we delve into the economic challenges faced by South African companies operating in Nigeria. The significant devaluation of the Naira in 2024 has had a profound impact on these businesses, leading to reduced earnings and operational difficulties. We'll discuss the specific strategies these companies have implemented to mitigate the risks associated with currency volatility and explore the broader economic implications for both South Africa and Nigeria. Kaya FM
GUEST – Barba Gaoganediwe - Chief Marketing Officer at the Gauteng Tourism Authority.
On 14 and 15 December, Chris Brown delivered an electrifying performance at the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg, etching his name into history by performing for a record-breaking crowd of over 92,000 fans. According to the Gauteng Tourism Authority , the concert attracted over 190,000 fans, generating R900 million for the local and promoting tourism, culture, and global events this festive season. Kaya FM
GUEST – Nolo Mokoena - co-founder and CIO of Crtve Development
In this segment, we sit down with Nolo Mokoena, Co-founder of Crtve Development, to discuss his work on climate action and youth empowerment in Africa. We'll explore his vision for a green future and the role of innovation and entrepreneurship in creating a more sustainable and equitable Africa. Kaya FM
GUEST - Dr. Prosper Chitambara, Independent Economist
In April, Zimbabwe’s central bank launched the ZiG, or Zimbabwe Gold, which was hyped as a stabiliser amid the country’s long-running currency and economic crisis. Kaya FM
GUEST – Leonie Links, Head of Digital Service Channel at Metropolitan.
Cyber threats are on the rise, and the insurance industry is no exception. We'll be speaking with Leonie Links, Head of Digital Service Channel at Metropolitan to discuss the latest trends in cyber insurance, the importance of data privacy, and how individuals and businesses can protect themselves from online attacks. Kaya FM
We're joined by Graham Wood, Chief Operating Officer at Sun International. We'll be discussing the state of the South African tourism industry in 2024, exploring the impact of the two-pot retirement system, and delving into Sun International's strategies for navigating the changing landscape. We’ll also discuss how the company is adapting to global trends and ensuring a sustainable future for the tourism industr Kaya FM
Join us as we sit down with Koketso Ramatlho from Angela Care, a dynamic South African brand making waves in the beauty industry. Emerged in 2019 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Fueled by a passion for healthy living and a desire to uplift others, Angela Care quickly gained recognition for its high-quality, natural products. Kaya FM
GUEST - Pogiso Dibakoane - Motoring Expert and Technician
The South African automotive market is undergoing a seismic shift, with Chinese brands rapidly gaining ground. But with so many options, how do these brands differentiate themselves? Kaya FM
GUEST – Andrew Fulton, Director at Eighty20.
With the festive season upon us, economic indicators in South Africa are shining brighter than in many years, signaling renewed consumer confidence and potential growth in retail spending. Improved economic trends such as declining inflation rates, and improved employment numbers have contributed to a more optimistic environment for businesses and consumers alike. Additionally, there have been two repo rate cuts, personal default rates continue to drop, and 260 days and counting with no rolling blackouts. On top of that, the two-pot retirement system has put more than R35bn rand into people’s pockets. Kaya FM
GUEST - Zwelakhe Mnguni – Chief Investment Officer at Benguela Global Funds Manager
In this episode, we delve into the complex world of corporate acquisitions. We'll dissect two high-profile deals: Barloworld's strategic move and Bidvest Bank's bold venture. Kaya FM
GUEST - Schalk Fischer, Insurance Vertical Sales Leader at TransUnion
TransUnion’s data shows there is a disconnect between the number of vehicles on the road and the proportion of insured drivers. Despite the public’s awareness of the risks of driving uninsured, many consumers still do not purchase vehicle insurance. This is likely due to the rising costs associated with vehicle ownership, including maintenance once the vehicle is out of service plan and high fuel prices, among other factors. While consumers appreciate the risks of driving uninsured, they may not consider the lasting effects that accidents and third-party liabilities can have on their financial well-being. Kaya FM
GUEST – Lister Saungweme, ASISA Senior Policy Advisor for Transformation, Skills Development and Education
Life companies and asset managers report strong growth in Black shareholding over the past six years.
Black South African shareholders owned 27% of life offices that are members of the Association for Savings and Investment South Africa (ASISA) in 2023, exceeding the 25% net value target of the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) ownership scorecard for the first time. The net value target applies to Black shareholders’ unencumbered (debt-free) shareholding and is, therefore, a key indicator of the ownership element of the B-BBEE scorecard. The unencumbered Black ownership of life offices was 14% in 2018. Kaya FM
GUEST - Kabelo Makeke, head of personal and private banking at Standard Bank South Africa
With many employers paying December salaries as early as the 13th, the gap before the next payday is significant – 42 days for those usually paid on the 25th and 49 days for month-end earners.
The festive season adds financial pressure as South Africans stretch their December salaries while spending more than usual. Standard Bank’s analysis shows that South Africans spend their salaries faster in the last two months of the year. Interestingly, November salaries are spent faster than December’s. December salaries last slightly longer, with customers taking two to three extra days on average to spend 50% of their income compared to November. Higher middle-income and high-income earners take nearly twice as long to spend half of their December income—around 11 days compared to just six days for entry-level customers. Kaya FM
.GUEST – Lebo Gaoaketse – Head of Marketing and Comms, WesBank
WesBank, one of South Africa's leading vehicle finance institutions, has come under scrutiny following allegations that it systematically overcharged black clients compared to white clients. According to a whistleblower and financial investigator Emerald van Zyl, black clients were charged interest rates as high as 18%, while white clients paid rates as low as 10%. These allegations suggest racial bias in how interest rates were determined, bypassing credit scores in favor of other "risk factors" that disproportionately affected black clients. Kaya FM
The Africa Financial Summit, recently held in Morocco, brought together the continent’s most influential financial leaders, innovators, and decision-makers for a transformative gathering. During the event, participants worked to chart a new course for Africa’s financial future. Kaya FM
GUEST - Dr Mark Bussin, President of the South African Reward Association.
The world of work is evolving rapidly and along with it, employee demands and remuneration practices. “Companies who want to stay ahead of the talent race need to keep abreast of these changes and adapt accordingly,” says Dr Mark Bussin, Master Reward Specialist and President of the South African Reward Association (SARA). Kaya FM
GUEST – Lethabo Mokoena - Founder of retail sneaker laundry chain stores, Walk Fresh
South Africa-based Walk Fresh is a boutique sneaker-cleaning and shoe-care start-up, founded by Lethabo Mokoena, which aims to keep its clients’ shoes looking and feeling as good as new. Kaya FM
GUEST – Lesego Kotane - MD for Yellowwood and TBWA Group Strategy Officer
In an ever-evolving world, understanding the perspectives and preferences of youth has never been more crucial. The GenNext 2024 Youth Behaviour Report offers a detailed exploration of the habits, attitudes, and aspirations of South African youth. From defining what makes brands "cool" to uncovering how they express themselves and engage with their digital and physical environments, the report sheds light on the key factors shaping their lives and choices.
Today, we’re excited to delve deeper into these insights with Lesego Kotane, MD for Yellowwood and TBWA Group Strategy Officer, an expert involved in the creation of this comprehensive study. Kaya FM
GUEST - Andre Cilliers - Director and Currency Risk Strategist at TreasuryOne
We reflect on the rand manipulation case and lessons learned. Kaya FM
GUEST - Mbongeni Masondo – Co-Founder of Sobae Frozen and Selebogo Molefe - Founder of Share the Codes
A killer elevator pitch can be the difference between a missed opportunity and a game-changing partnership. In a world where time is precious, the ability to concisely communicate your business idea is a must-have skill for every entrepreneur. Kaya FM
GUEST – Sheldon Morais, Trialogue’s Head of Thought Leadership
In South Africa’s fragile economy, companies are playing an increasingly important role in contributing to the upliftment of the communities in which they operate and supporting social development. Corporate South Africa’s commitment to social change is marked by its investment of over R12 billion in social initiatives in 2024, despite strained economic conditions. Which companies are leading the charge and where does your favourite brand rank as a contributor to South African society? Kaya FM
Join us as we sit down with Charles Savage, CEO of Purple Group, to discuss a year of remarkable highlights. From humble beginnings as a startup, Purple Group has grown into a financial powerhouse with EasyEquities managing close to R60 billion in assets. We delve into the company's journey, its impact on the investment landscape, and its vision for the future. Kaya FM
JSE-listed food producer Tiger Brands reported revenue growth of 1% to R37.7 billion. The company also declared a final dividend of 684 cents per share, up 1.9% from last year.
We chat to Tiger Brand's CFO, Thushen Govender on the company's latest results. Kaya FM
GUEST – Jaco van Jaarsveldt, Head of Commercial Strategy and Innovation at Experian
Despite ongoing financial pressures, South African consumers are showing signs of optimism. Experian’s Q3 2024 Consumer Default Index (CDIx) reveals a record high appetite for credit, coupled with a slight improvement in the overall default rate, suggesting a potential turning point in consumer financial health. The improving economic outlook, driven by factors such as reduced interest rates and lower inflation, contributes to this cautiously optimistic perspective. Kaya FM
GUEST – Joe De Beer – DDG responsible for economic statistics at STATS SA
The South African economy unexpectedly contracted by 0.3% from the second to the third quarter this year.
Economists polled by Reuters expected growth of 0.5%.
In the third quarter, the economy was only 0.3% larger than a year before. Kaya FM
GUEST - Dr. Frank Magwegwe, Executive for Financial Wellness and Advisory at Nedbank
The current situation of working South Africans is characterised by major financial pressures. But despite these considerable pressures, a strong sense of determination and optimism prevails.
Nedbank has released the second NedFinHealth Monitor Report, the bank’s annual research study that monitors and tracks financial health using 8 indicators grouped into 4 key categories (spend, save, borrow and plan). The use of earned wage access, buy-now-pay-later services, having outstanding credit card debt, and feeling embarrassed to ask for help or guidance were some of the key findings by the Monitor which are associated with lower financial health. Kaya FM
GUEST – Varshan Maharaj - Portfolio manager at Allan Gray
According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, South Africa’s tourism sector is expected to grow by almost 8% a year over the next decade, significantly outstripping GDP growth. On the ground, many experts are predicting a record turnout this festive season at popular destinations like Cape Town and Durban.
This resurgence is also being felt in terms of foreign tourists, with South Africa welcoming 8.5 million international arrivals, almost 50% more than the previous year. Despite these positive projections, the sector remains undervalued, with many local hospitality and leisure shares still trading at well below their pre-pandemic prices.
Varshan Maharaj, portfolio manager at Allan Gray, joins Kaya Bizz to explore whether the hospitality sector’s turnaround signals present an opportunity for long-term investors. Kaya FM
GUEST – Hayley Ivins-Downes, Managing Executive Real Estate at Lightstone
Homeowners prefer buying houses on their own rather than in partnership with others or through a company or trust – although trusts and other non-natural buyers are popular in the higher price bands.
Hayley Ivins-Downes, Managing Executive Real Estate at Lightstone, a provider of comprehensive data, analytics and systems on property, automotive and business assets, said Lightstone’s data points to single owner house buyer numbers increasing marginally since 2013, from 51% to 55% by the end of 2023, while joint home ownerships had fallen from 36% to 30% Kaya FM
GUEST – Prof Patrick Bond - Political economist
US President-elect Donald Trump has threatened to impose 100% tariffs on a bloc of nine nations if they were to create a rival currency to the US dollar.
"The idea that the BRICS Countries are trying to move away from the Dollar while we stand by and watch is OVER," Trump wrote on social media on Saturday. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dean Hyde, COO at PayJustNow
South Africa’s leading Buy Now Pay Later provider, PayJustNow has revealed consumer spending behaviour for the month to date, signaling a record number of shoppers and spending power this Black Friday.
For the month to date, PayJustNow’s retail base of over 2700 merchants across 8000 stores were already tracking 68% growth in Gross Merchandise Value in comparison to the entire month of November last year. Kaya FM
GUEST – Francois Viviers, Capitec’s Executive of Marketing and Communications
Black Friday highlights:
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Capitec clients spent R25.4 billion this Black Friday and Saturday – enough to buy over 7.2 million tickets to the Springboks vs All Blacks game at DHL Stadium during the 2024 Castle Lager Championship and fill it 132 times over.
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Capitec App clients logged into the Capitec App 27 million times on Black Friday alone – up by 51% from last year.
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While cash withdrawals grew by 15%, this was a slower growth rate than digital payments.
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Card payments increased 21% year-on-year, with online card transactions rising by over 38%.
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Capitec clients spent R1.98 billion at major grocery retailers, equivalent to over 99 million loaves of bread.
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Capitec Pay saw impressive growth over the weekend, with 1.7 million transactions, totalling a 54.7% increase from 2023. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dr. Rutendo Hwindingwi, the founding director of Tribe Africa advisory.
In this episode, we delve into the intricate relationship between South Africa and Nigeria, two economic powerhouses on the African continent. We explore the untapped potential of bilateral trade, examining the benefits and challenges that lie ahead. Kaya FM
GUEST - Dawie de Villiers - CEO of Alexander Forbes
Diversified financial services provider Alexforbes delivered an improved interim dividend on Monday, supported by a robust balance sheet for the six months to end-September. Kaya FM
GUEST – Thabo Tsolo and Neo Ramathinyane – Co-founders of SpaceSalad studios
Space Salad Studios is an award-winning indie game studio from South Africa, distinguished for its commitment to merging gaming with activism. Led by a visionary team, the studio excels in creating games that entertain while raising awareness and engagement on critical societal issues. Their latest project, P.O.O Weekly, developed in collaboration with renowned satirist Zapiro, addresses the pressing issue of youth voter turnout in South Africa. We sat down with founder Thabo Tsolo, who was also selected as part of Creation Africa Incubation Programme to delve into the studio’s mission and insights into the gaming industry. Kaya FM
GUEST – Zareena Camroodien – Departmental Head: Fund Governance and Trustee Conduct (FSCA)
Of the nearly 2 million withdrawals made from retirement funds, three-quarters were made by members aged 31 to 51, with over 40% of withdrawals from members in their 30s.
Less than 15% of withdrawals came from members over 50, which suggests that these members are more concerned about their retirement outcomes.
These figures, provided by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA), are unsurprising, as most people in their 30s and 40s are experiencing financial strain. This age group will be raising families, paying mortgages, and often supporting elderly parents. They may also feel that, given their current economic pressures, including educating children, these expenses are a greater priority than retirement at this stage.
Over 65% of withdrawals were made by members with pensionable salaries of between R60 000 and R240 000 a year. One in four people who withdrew earned between R15 000 and R20 000 a month, with a similar number falling in the income category of R5 000 to R10 000 a month. Kaya FM
GUEST – Christie Viljoen, PwC SA Senior Economist
As 2024 winds down and businesses turn their attention to next year, the outlook for the South African economy in 2025 comes into focus. The country’s economic fortunes are intertwined with the rest of the world. While domestic factors (such as load-shedding, interest rates and extreme weather events) have a direct impact on the country’s economic outlook, so too does the economic health of its trade and investment partners.
The latest edition of PwC’s South African Economic Outlook reviews the economic prospects for key developed economies and emerging markets in 2025.
The accounting behind Black Friday deals – How retailers make money during Black Friday: Kaya FM
GUEST – Daphne Mokwena – ESKOM Spokesperson.
Power utility Eskom says that the prepaid electricity metre rollover allowed it to catch 400,000 previously non-paying customers in its net – all of whom are now paying for electricity as they should.
In an update on its rollover and upgrade process, Eskom said that not only did it manage to convert so-called “zero buyers”, it also managed to update its prepaid customer base to an up-to-date figure of 7.25 million meters. Kaya FM
Talking Points:
- JSE all share index performance.
- Rand remains fairly steady.
- Tsogo sun results.
- Nampak trading statement Kaya FM
Small businesses are the backbone of our economy. But what does it take to nurture and grow these businesses? How can financial institutions like Standard Bank play a pivotal role? We explore these questions and more with Lesiba Matladi, Senior Manager for Enterprise & Supplier Development at Standard Bank Business and Commercial Banking South Africa. Kaya FM
GUEST – Sibongiseni Ngundze - CEO of Consumer Banking at Africanbank.
African Bank has announced a net profit of R523 million for the 2024 financial year, reflecting a strong performance amid a challenging economic climate. With a capital adequacy ratio of 31.4% and significant liquidity reserves of R7.1 billion, the bank continues to demonstrate its resilience while driving strategic growth under its transformative 'Excelerate25' strategy. Kaya FM
GUEST - Peter Wharton-Hood, Chief Executive of Life Healthcare Group
KEY HIGHTLIGHTS:
Group revenue up 12.7%, fuelled by strong second-half results
Southern Africa acute PPD growth of 1.6%
Southern Africa acute revenue up 6.5%
Sales of Life Molecular Imaging's Neuraceq® doses up 91.9%
Life Molecular Imaging revenue up 181.3%
Normalised earnings per share (NEPS) up by 48.5% to 132.3 cents
Alliance Medical Group sale concluded
Group distributes cash of R10.6 billion to shareholders in 2024 Kaya FM
GUEST - Laurence Rapp, CEO of Vukile Property Fund
Vukile Property Fund (JSE: VKE) has reported an impressive 6.0% increase in its interim cash dividend to 55.2cps for the six months to 30 September 2024. The consumer-focused retail real estate investment trust (REIT), distinguished by its sector specialisation and international diversification, has reported excellent half-year operational results. This strong performance positions it comfortably to meet its full-year guidance of growth in FFO per share of 2% to 4%, with a trajectory towards the upper end of its 4% to 6% DPS growth target. Kaya FM
GUEST - Ramasela Ganda - Zeda Chief Executive Officer
Amid high interest rates, inflation, fuel hikes, and a swiftly changing competitive landscape, Zeda Limited has delivered record high revenue of R10.5 billion. Kaya FM
GUEST – Matthew Parks - COSATU's parliamentary coordinator,
The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) said it was disappointing that some pension funds had chosen to exploit the two-pot pension system by imposing unnecessary fees on members.
Since coming into effect earlier this year, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) has received 2.2 million applications for withdrawals worth billions of rands. Kaya FM
GUEST – Kenosi Rakosa, Head of Lending Propositions at EasyPay Everywhere
In South Africa, empowering women with access to responsible credit is key to advancing financial inclusion and economic resilience. With nearly half of households headed by women, especially in rural areas, gender-driven economic disparity remains a pressing issue.
Kenosi Rakosa, Head of Lending Propositions at EasyPay Everywhere, highlights the transformative impact that safe, accessible credit can have on these households. By offering financial tools that support women’s unique needs, particularly those leading low-income families, can lay the groundork for long-term community upliftment. Kaya FM
GUEST – Reabetswe Dire – Founder of Edenvinne
South Africa has a wealth of talented beauty entrepreneurs, but many struggle to get their products into the hands of consumers. Edenvinne is on a mission to change that. We’ll be speaking to Rearabetswe Dire, founder of Edenvinne to learn more about how this innovative retail chain is providing a platform for local beauty brands to thrive. Kaya FM
GUEST – Bulelani Balabala – Founder of Township Entrepreneurs Alliance
The Gauteng Department of Education has instructed all schools to suspend the sale of food within and around school premises until further notice. This recent ban on food is expected to leave vendors in a difficult position. Kaya FM
GUEST - Deon Poovan, he is the Acting Chief Regulatory Officer at SAHPRA.
The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) said it is concerned about the increased sales of weight loss products made available to the public via websites, social media platforms and other informal channels.
According to SAPHRA, these products pose a serious health risk to the public. The authority has thus cautioned citizens not to purchase and/or consume such products as their safety, efficacy and quality have not been assessed. Kaya FM
GUEST – Johann Els, Group Chief Economist at Old Mutual
The eyes of the world were glued on the United States last week and in a conclusive victory, Donald Trump and the Republicans now have a mandate to implement their agenda over the next four years.
We are joined by Group Chief Economist at Old Mutual, Johann Els on the possible economic outcomes of President Trump's return to office. Kaya FM
GUEST – Adil Nchabeleng - Energy expert
Is privatization the answer to South Africa's electricity woes? With municipalities struggling to keep the lights on, experts are recommending that local municipalities turn to private companies for help.
Energy expert, Adil Nchabeleng joins us to discuss the pros and cons of this approach, the potential benefits, such as improved service delivery and infrastructure investment, as well as the risks, such as affordability and accountability Kaya FM
KayaBiz spoke to Global Manager at SA Tourism, Thandiwe Mathibela looking at the Impact of business events on local economy. Kaya FM
KayaBiz spoke to Johann Els, the Chief Economist at Old Mutual about What Trumps win means and what could be next for the Markets Kaya FM
At the helm of Gauteng’s biggest business radio show, Kaya Biz, is Gugulethu who will be leading the conversation on what is next for the Afropolitan business landscape. The show presents local and international business news, entrepreneurship, corporate and investment banking. Since its inception in May 2006 Kaya Biz has grown from a half-an-hour daily finance update to an hour show bringing compelling business news and market reviews to listeners. Kaya FM
Adrian Saville, Chief Investment Officer spoke to kayaBiz about save investments and pensioner who lost her money through Banxso. Kaya FM
LEGAL MATTERS - Financial Planner, Bryan Nicol, walks us through the Legal Steps for Business Succession Planning Kaya FM
EKASINOMIC: Co-Founder of PayJustNow, Mark McChlery, talks on how their platform provides consumers with the opportunity to conveniently split their purchase into three manageable payments. Kaya FM
CEO OF FNB, Richard Porter, joined KayaBiz to unpack their launch of the enhanced cross-border payments to meet the evolving needs of its customers. Kaya FM
INSIDE YOUR BUSINESS: KayaBiz spoke to Karabo Mashugane, the CEO of 20/20 Insights, about Scaling Smartly in a Tight Economy and how to achieve Strategic Growth for South African Small Business Kaya FM
KayaBiz spoke to Report Author, Damian Hattingh, about the State of Grocery Retail in South Africa Kaya FM
Election scenario with Neil Wilson, Finalto's Chief Market Analyst, as he predicted Former President Donald Trump defeating Vice President Kamala Harris and is returning to the White House. Kaya FM
The Chief Executive Officer at Office of the Tax Ombud, Prof Thabo Legwaila, takes us through The Office of the Tax Ombud Annual Report that gives an overview of the OTO’s performance achievements and challenges Kaya FM
Profmed CEO, Craig Comrie advocated for a collective focus on preventive healthcare and education. Comrie told KayaBiz that he believes health literacy and preventative care is the only long-term solution to help knock down healthcare costs for all South Africans. Kaya FM
KayaBiz spoke African Oceans Council, CEO, Tsietsi Mokhele about their confidence on African port cities unlocking financial and social capital through various labour intensive and new thematic maritime economic projects across the world’s biggest island continent. Kaya FM
Department of Petroleum and Mineral Resources announces fuel price hike, ending five-month downward trend. we spoke to Koketso Mano from FNB Senior Economist Kaya FM
General Manager at PayProp, Michelle Dickens gave analysis on what the expectations for another interest rate cut in November mean for the property market Kaya FM
Kamal Govan, portfolio manager at Allan Gray discussed some of the key themes shaping the retail sector in South Africa presently. Kaya FM
US foreign policy and international Policy, Pearl Matibe was on the ground giving us an update on the American Elections and how the outcome could Potentially Impact on South Africa. Kaya FM
Sub-Saharan Africa Economist at the Bank of America, Tatonga Rusike gave update on the Bank of America's latest report which offers timely insights into South Africa’s economic trajectory amid a potential ratings upgrade. Kaya FM
Join us as we discuss Prada's impressive performance in the luxury market, even amidst global economic challenges. We'll explore why this iconic brand could be poised for a triumphant return to South Africa.
With Michael Zahariev, co-founder of Luxity, we'll delve into the factors driving Prada's success, the potential impact of a South African comeback, and the broader outlook for the luxury market in the region. Listen to discover how Prada's innovative spirit and strategic moves are shaping the future of luxury fashion. Kaya FM
South African businesses, beware! A critical deadline is fast approaching. We discuss the potential consequences of non-compliance with the CIPC's beneficial ownership regulations.
Joshua Alexandre, founder and CEO of InfoDocs, will share insights on the risks involved, including deregistration, asset seizure, and potential business paralysis. We'll also explore practical steps to ensure timely compliance and protect your business. Don't miss this essential episode to safeguard your company's future. Kaya FM
In this conversation we delve into the alarming issue of mental health in the South African workplace. Dr. Frank Magwegwe, a leading expert, will discuss the staggering costs of mental health challenges, including lost productivity and GDP impact.
We'll explore the root causes of these issues, from work-related stress to societal pressures. Plus, we'll discuss practical solutions for employers and employees to improve mental well-being and create healthier, more productive work environments. Kaya FM
In this conversation we discuss the latest developments surrounding South Africa's popular low-cost airline, FlySafair. Aviation analyst Phuthego Mojapele will break down the key issues, including the IASC ruling on foreign ownership and the looming threat of a strike.
We'll delve into the potential consequences of these challenges for FlySafair and its passengers. Kaya FM
GUEST – Andrew Dittberner - Chief Investment Officer at Old Mutual Wealth Private Clients
With less than a day until Americans head to the polls, the outcome of the presidential race remains highly uncertain. Kaya FM
We speak to Ntobeko Nyawo, Redefine's CFO, to discuss the company's latest financial results. Despite a challenging economic climate, Redefine has shown resilience, with improvements in occupancy and overall demand.
We'll delve into the factors driving this positive performance, including the impact of lower interest rates and increased investor confidence. Tune in to hear how Redefine is navigating these turbulent times and positioning itself for future growth. Kaya FM
Energy Expert, Ruse Moleshe gave us analysis on NERSA being approved for the cross-border electricity trade an what this means for Eskom Kaya FM
Anthoni van Nieuwkerk, Professor of Internation and Diplomacy studies, says ‘Brics+ could shape a new world order, but it lacks shared values and unified identity’ Kaya FM
We spoke to 17 yr old Founder of Candy Palette, Safiyya Essop and her mom Tasneem Valley Kaya FM
CEO of Business Leadership SA, Busisiwe Mavuso Business gave reaction to MTBPS and its prioritised areas Kaya FM
Miyelani Holeni, who is the Group Chief Advisor at Ntiyiso Consulting Group gave us focus on Municipalities, Debt relief and SOE's in highlight of the Mid-term Budget speech Kaya FM
Chief Economist for Standard Charted Bank, Razia Khan, looked at what the MTBPS said to investors that are outside South Africa Kaya FM
MTBPS Reaction with SA Economist at FNB, Siphamandla Mkhwnazi, who reflected on the economic impacts of the mid-term budget Kaya FM
GUEST - Kagiso Lebethe - Senior Employee Relations Specialist.
It is common for stokvel members or third parties to borrow money from the stokvel and interest is typically charged on the provided loans. This may potentially create problems within the employment context in circumstances where disputes may arise concerning the terms of the loan and/or the repayment thereof. For this reason, it is not unusual for an employer to prohibit the granting of loans in the workplace, whether on an individual basis or through a stokvel. However, the question arises: Can an employer dismiss an employee for participating in a money-lending scheme when there are no specific workplace rules in this regard?
In Kaweng v South African National Biodiversity Institute and Other, the Labour Court recently had to determine the fairness of the dismissal of an employee who was found guilty of engaging in an unlawful money-lending scheme at the workplace. Kaya FM
GUEST – Shaun Richards, Platform45 Founder and CEO
According to the Africa Wealth Report 2024, Africa’s millionaire population is set to rise by 65% in the next decade, fuelled by strong growth in key sectors such as fintech, software development and green tech. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dobek Pater - Director of business development at Africa Analysis.
Competition Tribunal blocked Vodacom’s opens new tab proposed merger with fibre group Maziv on Tuesday, a blow to the ambitions of the country's biggest mobile operator to expand its fibre footprint nationwide. Kaya FM
GUEST – Riaan Davel, CFO of DRDGOLD
Although DRDGOLD’s volume throughput target was missed by 17% owing to a delay in the commissioning of new reclamation sites at Ergo, a steady performance from Far West Gold Recoveries (FWGR) together with higher grades from several clean-up sites helped to soften the impact and 93% of planned gold output was achieved, the surface gold mining company stated in its annual integrated report on Monday. Kaya FM
GUEST - Kenny Fihla, Standard Bank Deputy Group CE and Standard Bank South Africa.
The Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) and its co-sponsors Standard Bank, Old Mutual and UBS are currently hosting the 11th annual SA Tomorrow conference in New York City. The conference showcases South African institutions and listed companies to the US investor community to build insight into the investment proposition that South Africa provides. This year the conference has attracted considerable interest, given the new Government of National Unity (GNU) and the influence it will have on policy and fiscal management. Kaya FM
GUEST – Johann Els, Group Chief Economist at Old Mutual
As South Africa awaits the 2024 Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS), there is cautious optimism about the country's economic trajectory. The recent shifts in fiscal strategy, driven by ongoing reforms and an improved political landscape, signal that we are edging closer to a new phase of stability and growth. This year, the MTBPS comes amidst decreasing inflation, still high but gradually lower interest rates and a strengthened Rand. According to Johann Els, Group Chief Economist at Old Mutual, the MTBPS is expected to showcase continued fiscal consolidation efforts and policy reforms aimed at narrowing the budget deficit and stabilising the debt ratio over the coming years. Kaya FM
GUEST – Chris Zietsman - Product Head: Digital Merchant Commerce at Capitec.
Embracing the future of payments with Capitec’s new card machines
As the world steadily moves towards a digital future, businesses must evolve to meet the demands of an increasingly cashless society. Capitec Business is at the forefront of this transformation, offering state-of-the-art card machines to enhance your business’s efficiency and profitability. By partnering with us, you gain access to the best merchant rates in the market and benefit from a suite of features that position us as the best bank for all your business needs. Kaya FM
GUEST – Angela Russell, CEO of Drinks Federation of South Africa [DF-SA]
The growing illicit alcohol market presents a serious risk to both South Africa's economic recovery and the health of our citizens. This illegal industry undermines the industry’s efforts to support economic growth through its fiscal contributions and to alcohol harm reduction, impacting lives and livelihoods. This was the focus of discussions at the DF-SA roundtable held in Johannesburg under the theme “The Rise of Illicit Alcohol: A Collaborative Approach to Address Health and Economic Challenges”.
Angela Russell, CEO of DF-SA, stated, Illicit alcohol is on the rise, and that we need a multipronged, multi-stakeholder approach to contain it. The profitability in the trade of illicit alcohol has attracted organised crime and the penalties for smuggling and tax evasion are an insufficient deterrent. If left unchecked, this could become a runaway train, as on the African content the illicit alcohol accounts for 40% of the market. Kaya FM
GUEST - Rui Morais, CEO of Dis-Chem
South African pharmacy group Dis-Chem reported a 16.3% jump in headline earnings for the six months ended 31 August 2024, it announced on Sens on Friday.
Dis-Chem also posted a 16.1% surge in its dividend per share, which amounts to 26.98 cents, compared to 23.2 cents in the corresponding period in 2023.
The group’s share price traded over 2% lower on Friday morning, at around R36.35 a share.
Dis-Chem attributes the strong earnings growth largely to the containment of group payroll costs, predominantly driven by the successful deployment of its ‘staffing framework 1.0’-strategy. Staffing framework 1.0 focuses on achieving the optimal mix of staff to ensure efficient operations at store level.
In the period under review, Dis-Chem’s like-for-like retail employee costs increased by just 0.7%, but wholesale expenses jumped 13.2% – mainly as a result of the acquisition of the Longmeadow warehouse in Gauteng.
For the half-year, Dis-Chem saw its revenue rise by 9.6% to R19.6 billion, while operating profit surged 17.5%.
Six new retail pharmacy stores were opened, resulting in 274 retail pharmacy stores and 53 retail baby stores as at 31 August 2024, it noted. Kaya FM
GUEST - Dr Mark Bussin, Master Reward Specialist and Executive Committee Member of the South African Reward Association (SARA)
South Africans can look forward to an average salary increase of 6% in 2024/2025 says Dr Mark Bussin, Master Reward Specialist and Executive Committee Member of the South African Reward Association (SARA).
“There is a glimmer of hope regarding GDP growth and, if we continue on this trajectory, it could mean the brighter future we’ve all been praying for,” he says.
Salary increases may not be the only consideration in a robust total rewards programme, but they are definitely a cornerstone. For organisations, they’re also a key factor in business sustainability.
Likewise, they are essential to employees who, due to inflation, become relatively poorer over the course of any given year. A timely salary increase helps them stay ahead of the cost of living and pursue a lifestyle they’re content with. Kaya FM
GUEST – Pick n Pay CEO Sean Summers
The Pick n Pay Group’s turnaround strategy is gaining traction with encouraging progress made across a number of key strategic and operational initiatives, including another formidable performance from its Boxer business and an underlying improvement in the performance of Pick n Pay supermarkets. These were key reflections in the Group’s interim results, published today, which also reported strong sales growth in Pick n Pay Clothing and Pick n Pay Online.
As anticipated, the first six months of FY25 (26 weeks ended 25 August 2024) remained challenging. However, due to improved store operations - showing a distinct turnaround - Pick n Pay CEO Sean Summers says they are quietly confident that they will reduce trading losses in the Pick n Pay segment by as much as 50% for the full-year.
Group turnover grew 3.7% to R56.1 billion, with like-for-like sales growth of 2.9%, with performance varying across divisions. Boxer recorded strong sales growth of 12.0%, well balanced between like-for-like sales (+7.7%) and sales from new stores (+4.3%). Boxer recorded another impressive earnings performance, with trading profit up 16% year-on-year. “The Boxer IPO remains pivotal to our strategy, and their remarkable performance continues to prove it is an exceptional business. We are excited to see it thrive as a listed entity,” said Summers. “It will be one of the most exciting listings on the JSE in years.” Kaya FM
Nastassia Arendse chats to Steve Brookes, CEO of Balwin Properties, to discuss the company's latest financial results. Despite a more optimistic economic outlook, the residential property market remains subdued, primarily due to high interest rates. Balwin has experienced a decline in apartment sales and revenue, though its annuity business has shown growth. We delve into the factors impacting the property market, the company's strategies to navigate these challenges, and the outlook for the future. Kaya FM
In this conversation we discuss the increasing financial strain on South African companies. Our guest, Inayet Kader, Senior Manager for Restructuring and Turn Around at Deloitte Africa, will share insights from the latest Deloitte Stability Index. We'll delve into the factors driving this distress, including inflation, currency fluctuations, and supply chain disruptions. And most importantly, we'll explore how these challenges are ultimately impacting consumers through rising prices. Kaya FM
Nine years ago Yoco started a business revolution in South Africa with just a payments device that empowered small businesses. On the 26th September 2024, the leading financial technology company introduced groundbreaking payment technology tools that are designed to modernise South African small businesses. We unpack it and more. Kaya FM
GUEST – Valdene Reddy – JSE’s Director of Capital Markets
In this conversation, we dive deep into the upcoming SA Tomorrow conference, where South African institutions and listed companies will showcase their investment potential to the U.S. investor community. With a focus on "Advancing SA's Structural Reforms for Infrastructure Development," the conference will feature discussions on monetary and fiscal policy, infrastructure investment plans, and progress on critical reforms like energy and logistics. Kaya FM
GUEST - Ignatius Sehoole, CEO of KPMG Southern Africa and Chairman in Africa
While CEOs remain confident in the future of the global economy, there is a significant consideration for escalating uncertainty and rising global crises - which has forced a reset in strategic thinking, a consolidation of talent, a renewed focus on collaborative approaches as well as an eye on upcoming technology and geopolitics. This is according to KPMG’s 2024 CEO Outlook Survey – Africa, the inaugural edition focusing on the African continent.
This annual report, the first of its kind to be launched in Africa by KPMG, draws on the perspectives of more than 130 CEOs from Southern, East, and West Africa regions. This follows on the back of the Global KPMG CEO Outlook Survey which celebrates its 10th edition and was conducted among 1,325 CEOs across 11 markets which examined how CEOs are looking to tackle this complex set of emerging and converging challenges. Kaya FM
GUEST - Bulelani Balabala – Founder of Township Entrepreneurs Alliance (TEA)
TEA, the driving force behind South Africa's township and rural entrepreneurial ecosystem, is proud to present the 6th Annual Township Economy Summit and Awards. This year's summit promises to be our most impactful yet, celebrating innovation, resilience, and growth within South Africa's vibrant township economy.
Over the past nine years, TEA has directly empowered more than 80,000+ township entrepreneurs. TEA has a national footprint covering all majority of South African townships. This year's two-day summit and awards will feature inspiring stories of township entrepreneurs who are making a difference in their communities. We will also be honoring the winners of the Township Economy Awards, which recognize the achievements of outstanding entrepreneurs in various categories.
If you are interested in learning more about the Township Entrepreneurs Alliance and the work, we are doing to support township entrepreneurs, listen to the podcast. Kaya FM
GUEST – Elize Kruger, Independent Economist
The average take-home pay reaches the highest level yet in September. Easing inflation levels, fuel price relief and lower interest rates give a boost to salary earners and their spending potential ahead of big year-end shopping days
The upward momentum continued in September 2024, as the average salary surpassed the R17 000 mark, the highest level since the inception of the BankservAfrica Take-home Pay (BTPI) series. Recent developments in the economy have given a boost to salary earners and could potentially spill over into the upcoming busy shopping period. Kaya FM
GUEST – Ruchelle Mouton - Group head of marketing and services at Tractor Outdoor.
It’s no secret that Gauteng currently devours the bulk of the out of home (OOH) and digital out of home (DOOH) media spend pie.
At present, the chunkiest slice (66%) of media spend is allocated to Gauteng, with a few paltry crumbs (9%) directed towards the Western Cape (WC). Yet this picturesque province is hungry, with the growth of the Mother City, in particular, set to shift the share of spend in the near future. Kaya FM
GUEST – Darren Hele, Chief Executive Officer at Famous Brands.
Leading food services franchisor Famous Brands released its interim results for the six months ended 31 August 2024. Famous Brands and its subsidiaries and associates (“Group”) increased its interim dividend by 9% to 150 cents per share.
Total revenue for the review period increased by 2% to R4 017 million (2023: R3 940 million), representing a marginal increase in tight consumer spending. Operating profit remained flat at R371 million against the prior period. Famous Brands' headline earnings per share performed relatively well at 218 cents per share (2023: 199 cents), largely due to prudence on the cost base even though operating profit margins were impacted by lower volumes and overhead cost pressures.
The Board has declared an interim dividend of 150 cents per share (2023: 138 cents), reflecting the Group’s stable financial position, performance, and cash flows, consistent with prudent capital management. Despite operating in a challenging environment, with mixed business sentiments driven by global geopolitical tensions, the Group maintains a cautiously optimistic outlook. The dividend will be paid from profits for the review period, amounting to a total of R150 million. Kaya FM
GUEST – Phuthego Mojapele, Aviation analyst
Join us for a deep dive into the complex history and ongoing challenges faced by South African Airways (SAA), once the pride of the nation. We'll explore the airline's turbulent journey, from its golden age to its recent financial struggles and restructuring efforts. Kaya FM
GUEST - Zanele Hadebe, Vice-President Strategic Marketing for Sasol Energy Marketing & Sales.
Sasol is rolling out a new way to tip petrol attendants at its fuel stations.
Sasol said that Tipped, a digital tipping system, will make it easier and more convenient for customers to tip petrol attendants straight from their smartphones.
Tipped is a digital tipping and payment system that uses a QR code and a digital wallet.
Customers scan a QR code their attendant presents to pay a tip straight to their digital wallet.
The system runs on the Masterpass payment rail, which supports mobile banking apps from major banks and digital wallets such as SnapScan, Zapper, Spot, Telkom Pay, and VodaPay. Kaya FM
GUEST – Ernest North, co-founder of digital insurance provider, Naked
Summertime is the season for sunshine, braais, and a spike in insurance claims due to weather-related damage for many parts of the country. That’s according to Ernest North, co-founder of digital insurance provider, Naked, who says hailstorms rank among one of the largest causes of damage and losses to property and cars in parts of Gauteng, Kwa-Zula Natal and the Free State. Kaya FM
GUEST – Thabile Nkunjana – Agricultural Economist
Namibia and Botswana have sparked debate within the agricultural sector by imposing a prolonged ban on imported citrus and vegetables from South Africa – a move that critics argue goes against numerous principles of regional trade agreements.
South Africa, a leading food supplier in Africa, benefits from long-term agricultural investments and exports significant quantities of vegetables, especially to the Southern African Customs Union (Sacu) region, including Botswana and Namibia. Kaya FM
GUEST- Esteani Marx, Head of Real Estate at Lightstone
The residential property market could benefit from the sense of optimism and increased political stability which has emerged since the formation of the government of national unity earlier this year. Kaya FM
GUEST – Horacia Naidoo-McCarthy - Manager in the Institutional Clients team at Allan Gray
Retirement industry research indicates that the average South African retiree can replace around 30% of their monthly income when they reach retirement. Most income-earners face the very real risk of outliving their retirement nest egg, more so now in the era of the two-pot retirement system.
Horacia Naidoo-McCarthy, manager in the Institutional Clients team at Allan Gray, joins Kaya Bizz to discuss the actions you can take now to achieve a sustainable income in retirement. Kaya FM
GUEST – Mike Brown – Managing Director of etfSA
The South African Exchange Traded Product (ETP) industry report for the third quarter of this year just dropped.
Authored by the managing director of etfSA, Mike Brown, it stated that the total market capitalisation of the entire local ETP industry amounted to R205bn at the end of September 2024. This is an increase of 24% on the R165.4bn reported at the end of the same period last year.
‘The growth in the industry arose from R24,1bn in capital raised from the listing of additional ETP securities on the JSE during the first nine months of the year, as well as the rise in market values to date this year, the report said. Kaya FM
GUEST - Steven Mervis - Head of Strategy at MSCSPORTS
As Head of Strategy at MSCSPORTS, Steven Mervis is uniquely positioned to provide deep insights on the current SARU and Ackerley Sports Group (ASG) private equity deal, which has sparked debate across South Africa.
Steven believes that even though there is no doubt that SARU needs private equity investment to recover from the financial challenges of COVID-19, the Lions tour, and their entry into the URC, there are several critical areas of concern that must be addressed to ensure the best outcome for SA Rugby. Kaya FM
GUEST – Natashia Soopal - Senior Executive: Ethics Standards and Public Sector at SAICA
As corporate South Africa and the rest of the world celebrated Global Ethics Day on (Wednesday, 16 October), the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) has warned that workplace misconduct is worse than ever, with almost 9 out of 10 employees saying they don’t feel like they work in an ethical workplace culture.
This despite increased local and international efforts to promote ethical business practices, and proposed reforms to South Africa’s whistleblower legislation in the wake of the Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, Corruption and Fraud in the Public Sector (better known as the Zondo Commission) Kaya FM
GUEST – Nkoatse Mashamaite, Chief Compliance Officer at the National Gambling Board
The growth of online betting in South Africa has been astronomical since the Covid-19 pandemic.
In that year, revenue (more technically, gross gambling revenue) at traditional casinos nearly halved to R10 billion (from R19 billion). It has steadily recovered since then, and last year it neared R17.5 billion. But the days of growth at casinos are long gone.
Revenue in the five years between 2015 and 2019 barely moved (from R17.8 billion to R18.8 billion). Over that same period, the share of the market held by betting operators (racing, physical bookmakers and online) doubled from R4 billion to R8 billion. This saw its share increase from 17% to 27%. Kaya FM
GUEST – Jan Vermeulen - Editor at Mybroadband
South Africa’s Competition Commission is urging residents unhappy with exclusive Internet service provider (ISP) arrangements at their complexes and estates to come forward as it calls for more competition in the space.
This comes after the Internet Service Providers’ Association (ISPA) raised concerns over anti-competitive behaviour when it comes to providing fibre connectivity to complex and estate residents. Kaya FM
GUEST – Andrea Slabber, Insights Lead at Trade Intelligence
In this conversation we have a comparative analysis of South Africa’s six major grocery retail companies – Shoprite Holdings, The SPAR Group, Pick n Pay Stores, Woolworths Holdings, Clicks Group, and Dis-Chem Pharmacies, covering the reporting period of the first half of 2024 (HY2024) and is based on financial indicators published by the end of June 2024 Kaya FM
GUEST – James Hodge, chief economist and acting deputy commissioner at the Competition Commissioner
Competition Commissioner has said that multiple government policy interventions should be considered to create fairness in the ecommerce industry in response to questions about the rapid rise of Temu and Shein in the country. Kaya FM
GUEST - Marcia Mayaba, Sales Vice President: Auto Information Services at TransUnion South Africa
TransUnion's latest Vehicle Pricing Index (VPI) for Q2 2024, which integrates alternative data and several market-leading sources, shows a 6% decline in new vehicle sales and a 6.1% drop in total vehicles financed from the previous quarter.
Despite this, the market is showing signs of resilience, with a slight increase in consumer confidence and positive trends in generational shifts toward vehicle financing. The used-to-new ratio of financed vehicles moved to 1.44, up from the 1.15 of Q1 2024. This indicates a growing consumer preference for used vehicles. This preference comes at a time when used vehicle prices have risen by just 0.6% year-over-year (YoY), well below the rate of inflation. Over the same period, new vehicle prices rose by 4.4%, suggesting the market is under strain and that affordability remains a priority. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dr Yves Guénon - Chairman of the French South African Chamber of Commerce an Industry (FSACCI)
The forum, which is organised by Business France and the French South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry, is meant to strengthen collaboration between French, Indian Ocean and Southern African companies in response to increasing demand for technological solutions and services, which are growing across multiple sectors.
South Africa still faces significant challenges of high unemployment, inequality and structural difficulties, and more investment will be a critical step toward overcoming these issues. Kaya FM
Ms. Tsakani Maluleke has more than 20 years of experience in both the private and public sectors, spanning diverse areas including Auditing, Consulting, Corporate Advisory, Development Finance, Investment Management and Skills Development. Since 2014 she has served as the Deputy Auditor General and CEO of the Office of the Auditor-General of South Africa; the first woman to hold this executive position in the organisation’s history.
She is a passionate advocate and active contributor to the growth and transformation of the Accountancy Profession, through her work with various organisations including African Women Chartered Accountants, and the Association for the Advancement of Black Accountants of Southern Africa, of which she is the past President. Tsakani is Non-executive Chairman of the Board of SAICA (South African Institute of Chartered Accountants).
A seasoned business leader with a wealth of corporate governance experience gained through participation on numerous corporate boards and strategic committees.
Tsakani has served on the Presidential BEE Advisory Council, to advise government on the implementation of the BEE Act and Policy. For 7 years, she was the Chairman of the CA Charter Council, which oversaw the implementation of the CA Charter, which served as an important tool to focus key transformation initiatives on improving access for black people to enter the profession. Kaya FM
GUEST – Portia Mkhabela, Head of Southern Africa, at ACCA
New research reveals that top three areas for ethical challenges are leadership, culture and sustainability - and that ethical dilemmas are becoming more complex
Professional accountants, long trusted as custodians of financial integrity, are facing a new era of ethical challenges amid a rise in business scandals and evolving expectations. 68% of respondents from Africa said that ethical dilemmas have become more difficult to resolve in the past three years. Kaya FM
GUEST – Philip Myburgh, Group Head of Trade at Standard Bank Business and Commercial Banking
Tanzania is now ranked 4th highest in terms of overall attractiveness for trade in Africa. Its leap in the rankings was boosted by the country’s substantial investments in infrastructure and better access to finance, enabling businesses to engage more actively in cross-border trade.
On the downside, Ghana experienced a sharp decline, moving from the 3rd position to the 7th spot, underscoring the pressures that economy continues to endure. Its sharp decline also raises concerns about its ability to maintain trade competitiveness, even as Ghana is one of the most stable and democratic countries in West Africa. Its decline in the trade rankings is mainly due to a worsening macroeconomic environment and falling trade confidence. As economic volatility intensified in Ghana, its ability to facilitate seamless trade came under strain, making it harder for businesses to access foreign currency, most notably USD, that is required to pay for imports and thus engage in cross-border activities especially for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises, which this barometer favours. Kaya FM
GUEST – Keri Culver, Senior Immigration Consultant at Xpatweb
The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) on 28 March 2024 Gazetted a set of Immigration Regulations which allowed foreigners to come work and stay in South Africa on a Remote Work Visa. Following a press briefing by Minister Aaron Motsoaledi of the Department of Home Affairs on 9 April, these regulations have been subsequently withdrawn. However, according to the Minister, the DHA is in the process of finalising the regulations and will gazette a revised version by next week after taking into consideration comments received.
South Africa has now enabled the same remote working incentive as roughly 50 other countries, including Australia, Brazil, Cayman Islands, Dubai, Germany, Portugal, Namibia and Mauritius, to mention some popular destinations. Kaya FM
GUEST – Boitumelo Monageng, Founder and CEO of Swypa Delivery
Founded in Tembisa during the height of COVID-19, Swypa Delivery offers logistics solutions that assist with the delivery of food, liquor, groceries, parcels and medicine, and offer business support.
It is also the only delivery service of its kind that caters to informal fast-food businesses in the township.
Having recently increased their delivery bike fleet, Founder Boitumelo Monageng and Managing Director Thabang Kgopane together with their team of 20, hope to grow the business into a free-to-use township business-focused delivery service for consumers nationwide. Kaya FM
GUEST – Patricia de Lille – Minister of Tourism
The tourism minister, Patricia de Lille, has welcomed the finalisation of the White Paper on the Development and Promotion of Tourism in South Africa.
The tourism department published the White Paper in Government Gazette 51354 for implementation on 4 October 2024.The Green Paper on the Development of Tourism in South Africa was published for comment in Gazette 49223 in September 2023. Cabinet gave the green light to the White Paper in September 2024. Kaya FM
UEST - Franck Adjagba - Group Director of Business Development at the African Guarantee Fund
The African Development Bank Group and the African Guarantee Fund, in collaboration with the Banking Association South Africa (BASA), officially launched the Affirmative Action for Women in Africa (AFAWA) Finance Series yesterday in Sandton. The AFAWA Finance Series promotes an inclusive financial ecosystem and presents financial mechanisms to unlock substantial financing for women-owned and women-led businesses, thus creating a pathway towards sustainable and long-term growth of women-led and women-owned Small and Medium Enterprises in South Africa. Kaya FM
GUEST – Adil Nchabeleng – Energy Expert
Eskom has proposed a sweeping overhaul of its electricity pricing design, saying the current model is outdated and no longer fit for purpose in a changing landscape marked by a wave of solar panel installations.
The proposal, submitted to the National Energy Regulator of SA (Nersa) in September for approval, calls for the scrapping of the so-called inclining block tariff, which charges households less for the first 600kWh of electricity and progressively more for additional usage. Kaya FM
GUEST – Siya Mzozoyana- Rennies BCD Travel- New Business Development Manager.
In South Africa, small and midsize businesses contribute approximately 34% to South Africa's GDP and provide employment to about 60% of the labour force. This is according to Reece Oakes, CEO of Rennies BCD Travel, a travel company that has launched first of its kind platform called Go-Getter, an all-in-one travel solution platform, for small and medium-sized businesses in South Africa.
Go-Getter offers businesses a self-service solution for making bookings, managing and optimising business travel arrangements, with support from travel experts when they need it. Kaya FM
GUEST – Abongile Mashele, Head of Government Affairs and Public Policy at Google SA
Google Search, Google Play, Android, YouTube, Google Cloud and Google Advertising helped provide an estimated R118 billion of economic activity for businesses, nonprofits, publishers, creators and developers across South Africa in 2023.
The report estimates that Google Search and Google Workspace help knowledge workers save over 2.5 million hours a week. This is equivalent to a R72 billion improvement in productivity for the country’s economy. Kaya FM
GUEST – Carl Lewis – Award-winning sports reporter and podcast host.
Players' union FIFPRO and the top European leagues have complained about FIFA's expansion of the international match calendar to the European Commission.
The complaint - filed by executives from FIFPRO, the European Leagues and LaLiga - focuses on the men's international match calendar and specifies the expansion of the FIFA Club World Cup to 32 teams from 2025 and the FIFA World Cup to 46 teams come 2026.
FIFPRO says the new football calendar infringes European Union competition law and "risks player safety and well-being and threatens the economic and social sustainability of important national competitions which have been enjoyed for generations by fans in Europe and across the world". Kaya FM
GUEST - Gareth Cremen business rescue specialist & partner at Cox Yeats
There has been an increase in businesses entering business rescue. But what does business rescue actually mean? When is it an option? And why are some businesses forced into it? These are the kind of questions Gareth Cremen answers in this conversation. Kaya FM
GUEST - Mosha Senyolo - President of the Association of South African Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS)
The construction mafia has become so entrenched in South Africa that the risk of organised crime is increasingly factored into project contracts – suggesting that these criminal activities are a legitimate part of doing business. To restore the rule of law and revitalise the construction industry, the Association of South African Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS) is calling for collaborative action between built environment professional associations and SAPS to combat these criminal extortion rings. Kaya FM
GUEST - Anele Gxoyiya - Public Service Commission (PSC) Commissioner
Public Service Commission (PSC) Commissioner Anele Gxoyiya highlighted the ongoing issue of delayed payments by government departments to suppliers, which is impacting service providers nationwide. According to the PSC’s Quarterly Bulletin, the non-payment of invoices within 30 days remains a serious concern, with significant financial implications. Gxoyiya emphasised the need for stricter “consequence management” to hold accounting officers accountable and called for urgent reforms in financial management systems within national and provincial departments. Kaya FM
GUEST – Minister of Public Works & Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson
Infrastructure South Africa (ISA) has established a first-of-its-kind initiative that will allow government entities to apply for project preparation support. The government entity was established in 2020 to help with additional resources for infrastructure planning, management, and delivery.
At a media briefing on Tuesday, ISA revealed it has a multimillion-rand fund available to government departments that have existing projects but need extra assistance to get them off the ground. When a private company wants to build a housing project, it requires the relevant municipality to assist it with bulk infrastructure like roads, sewage, water, and electricity. Kaya FM
GUEST - Zak Haeri, MD for NIQ in South Africa
NielsenIQ (NIQ), the world’s leading global consumer intelligence company, has released its Mid-Year Consumer Outlook: Guide to 2025 report, identifying macro catalysts across industries. The forward-looking study provides a strategic roadmap for South African retailers looking to win over consumers in the year to come.
The data shows financial polarisation among South African consumers, with 42% reporting that they are better off than this time last year and 33% indicating they are worse off. Only 17% say they are thriving financially, up from 11% in 2023. The situation has improved since mid-year 2023, when 36% said they were better off than a year and 42% said they were worse off. Kaya FM
GUEST – Michael Miller, Mantengu Mining’s CEO
Sibanye-Stillwater has disposed of its Blue Ridge Platinum mine, which has been under care and maintenance since 2011, to Mantengu Mining that has a listing on the JSE AltX.
The Blue Ridge platinum group metals (PGM) mine has an integrated ore processing plant and is located in South Africa’s Limpopo Province, and will resume operations under Mantengu Mining on approval of all conditions precedent to the transaction.
“The acquisition of Blue Ridge is in line with its investment strategy of unlocking intrinsic economic value trapped in the small to large mining sector,” said Mantengu Mining’s CEO, Michael Miller. Kaya FM
GUEST – Prudence Moilwa - Head of Complaints and Investigations at the National Consumer Commission
The national consumer commission has descended on the township of naledi, in Soweto - raiding spaza shops.
The country's seen a spike in cases recently, with Gauteng officials on Sunday confirming the death of a sixth child from a suspected incident in Soweto.
Three children also died in the Eastern Cape, although the producer of the porridge they consumed, found no traces of contaminants in the product. Kaya FM
GUEST - Professor Jennifer Roeleveld - President of the International Fiscal Association (IFA) South Africa
Digital nomads and high-net-worth individuals with investments in different tax jurisdictions should expect increasing scrutiny from tax authorities, according to Professor Jennifer Roeleveld, international taxation expert and President of the International Fiscal Association (IFA) South Africa.
According to Roeleveld, countries worldwide are witnessing the erosion of their tax bases due to the global transition to a digital-first economy. “Tax authorities are therefore intensifying their focus on establishing the nexus between an individual or entity and their jurisdiction, giving them the right to tax.”
She says the work-from-anywhere trend advanced by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 has led to many countries introducing digital nomad visas, enabling employees to conduct business in other countries without registering for tax. South Africa is no exception, having introduced a remote work visa in May this year. Kaya FM
GUEST - SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) pays special tribute to the late Mr. Tito Mboweni who helped to stabilise our macro-economic landscape in the pivotal roles he played as Governor of the Reserve Bank and Minister of Finance, working closely with SARS as part of the broader Finance family.
For ten years from 1999 to 2009, he was the Governor of the Reserve Bank, a decade that coincided with the 10 years served by the late Mr. Pravin Gordhan as Commissioner of SARS. It was this decade of stability in leadership, along with Mr. Trevor Manuel as the then Minister of Finance, that helped SARS in its strategic repositioning and modernization as a world-class revenue authority. Kaya FM
GUEST - Lesetja Kganyago – SA Reserve Bank Governor
The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) has expressed deep saddness by the passing of former Finance Minister and Governor No. 8 Mr Tito Mboweni. SARB Governor Lesetja Kganyago describes Mboweni as a brave and down to earth leader. Kaya FM
GUEST – Nqobile Ndlovu - Cash N Sport Research Director
Longevity and earning capacity are two key factors that influence a professional athlete's career. While athletic talent and skill are crucial, the ability to sustain a long and successful career often depends on these two elements. Kaya FM
GUEST - Tom Crotty, Head of Risk Optimisation at Liberty
Stress, anxiety, and depression are taking a heavy toll on South Africans. According to Liberty’s 2023 claim statistics, mental health challenges are emerging as a health risk and in light of this, the insurer is encouraging South Africans to prioritise their mental wellbeing and to seek the necessary help when faced with life changing events. Kaya FM
GUEST - Fred Hume, Managing Director of Hume International
Hume International managing director Fred Hume said irrational import bans on poultry lead to South Africans paying far more for their favourite protein than necessary.
Hume pointed out that the cost, insurance, and freight (CIF) price of one kilogram of mechanically deboned meat (MDM) is currently around R9.46 in the Philippines.
MDM is a key ingredient in producing processed meats such as viennas, sausages, and polonies, which are staples of many local diets.
However, in South Africa, this cost is around R17.20/kg – nearly double. Hume said the reason for this is “grossly inconsistent trade practices and irrational import regulations”. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dirk Kunz - Sasria’s Chief Financial Officer
Financial Highlights:
•Total assets increased to R16.4 billion (2023: R14.1 billion).
•Insurance revenue grew by 17.67% to R5.25 billion (2023: R4.46 billion).
•Profit for the year stood at R3.33 billion, reflecting Sasria's operational resilience and efficiency.
•Investment income saw a notable rise to R1.02 billion (2023: R693 million).
•Accumulated losses improved from R11.19 billion in 2023 to R7.86 billion, bolstering Sasria's equity position.
•Reinsurance Costs: Net reinsurance expenses increased slightly to R1.33 billion, suggesting that Sasria continues to manage its risk exposure effectively, although reinsurance costs remain a considerable expense. Kaya FM
GUEST - Paul O’Flaherty - Metair CEO
JSE-listed Metair Investments will buy financially distressed aftermarket auto parts retailer AutoZone in a R290 million deal as part of the latter’s business rescue plan.
Metair – an international manufacturer, distributor and retailer of automotive components and energy storage solutions – confirmed the acquisition on Friday in a Sens announcement.
“A maximum consideration of R290 million, payable in cash by Metair or its nominated subsidiary on the closing date, will be used to settle AutoZone creditor and lender claims in line with AutoZone’s business rescue plan [and] acquire the sale shares for a nominal amount and fund R75 million in working capital requirements,” the group said. Kaya FM
GUEST – Harry Scherzer is the CEO of Future Forex.
When you read the words, “South Africa has a major financial literacy problem,” what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Is it the approximately 30 million citizens living below the poverty line? Or is it the 40% of South African adults who go into debt to buy groceries every month? Or do you think that it’s a far more pervasive problem that affects South Africans of all income and education levels?
If you chose the third option, you’re probably closest to the truth. According to the results of a survey by the Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) in partnership with the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), just 51% of South Africans are financially literate.
This lack of financial literacy doesn’t just impact obvious areas such as spending habits, loans, investments, and debt management either. It extends even further and can impact businesses’ ability to maximise revenue generation and minimise costs, with international money transfers being one of the clearest examples. Kaya FM
GUEST - Thanda Sithole, FNB Senior Economist
The latest mining and manufacturing data in South Africa have shown mixed results, with the former coming in better than expected and the latter worse than anticipated.
The latest Stats SA data showed that mining production increased from a contraction of 1.0% in July to growth of 0.3% in August – far better than the Reuters consensus of a 2.1% contraction.
Mining output grew by 2.9% m/m on a seasonally adjusted basis, offsetting the 0.8% decline in July.
That said, output for the three months ending in August still fell by 1.4%, suggesting that the mining sector could weigh on GDP in Q3 2024. Kaya FM
GUEST - NAFISA AKABOR – Tech & EV Journalist
EV adoption in South Africa is steadily increasing, driven by factors such as government incentives, growing consumer awareness, and the availability of more affordable models. However, challenges such as load shedding, limited charging infrastructure, and high upfront costs continue to hinder widespread adoption. Kaya FM
GUEST – Raymond Ledwaba - CEO of ItThynk Gaming and Consortium Spokesperson
The South African gaming industry has experienced significant growth, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate of 4.7% since 2020. To further stimulate this growth, a team of collective entities in the gaming industry, collectively known as “the Game Changers” consortium, has secured R12.9 million funding from the National Treasury's Jobs Fund initiative.
The Jobs Fund is a South African government R9 billion matching grant making programme managed by the National Treasury aimed at boosting employment and inclusive economic growth. The Fund operates on Challenge Fund principles i.e. its grant making process is transparent, competitive and success criteria are clearly defined. The Fund supports job creation interventions that generate sustainable employment beyond the grant making phase. Kaya FM
GUEST - Mesela Kope-Nhlapo - CEO of African Rail Industry Association (ARIA)
The African Rail Industry Association (ARIA) has welcomed the announcement of the vertical separation of Transnet Freight Rail into two distinct operating divisions: Transnet Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) and Transnet Freight Rail (TFR). This strategic unbundling represents a pivotal moment for the advancement of South Africa’s rail industry and reflects a forward-looking vision for the sector’s growth. Kaya FM
GUEST - Cobus van Vuuren - UNTU General Secretary
Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) has announced plans to split its operations, marking a major shift in the state-owned enterprise's structure. We speak to Cobus Van Vuuren, United National Transport Union’s SG to understand labour’s reaction to the move. Kaya FM
GUEST - Dewald van Rensburg - Investigator at AmaBhungane Centre for Investigative Journalism & Steven Powell, head of ENSafrica's forensics practice
The funds are deemed as illicit as they often originate from fraud, corruption, drug trafficking, or other unlawful activities or predicate crimes. Money laundering operations have serious negative impacts on global economies as well as local communities and so serious measures have to be put into place to deter individuals from these acts.
Based on the above it is very important that businesses and individuals that are at higher risk of being used as a “tool” for money laundering should follow the international and local guidelines given by the FATF and FIC respectively. Failure to do so not only harms your community but could result in reputational damage, financial penalties and even jail time. Kaya FM
GUEST - Jashwin Baijoo, Associate Director and Head of Strategic Engagement & Compliance – Tax Consulting SA
The South African Revenue Service (Sars) has issued a stern warning to taxpayers who hold digital currencies, emphasising that failing to declare crypto assets on tax returns will not be tolerated. Sars highlighted its growing concerns over non-compliance and reiterated that it has already begun enhancing its monitoring and enforcement capabilities to ensure all crypto-related income is accounted for.
According to Sars, more than 5.8 million South Africans hold crypto assets, yet many have not declared them in their tax filings. To tackle this, Sars is partnering with the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) to obtain information on registered crypto asset service providers (Casps) and has begun receiving data directly from local exchanges. Kaya FM
GUEST – Advocate Pansy Tlakula, the chairperson of the Information Regulator of South Africa
The Information Regulator of South Africa is targeting security estates and office parks over the information they collect about visitors. Many South African security estates and office parks collect a wide range of visitor data as part of their security systems. They typically scan a visitor’s driver’s license ID book and car’s license disk and collect a range of information about the person. This includes their name and surname, ID number, and other information on a driver’s licence, like age and gender. Further information that can be collected can include details about their vehicles, the vehicle registration number, and where they live. Kaya FM
GUEST - Moses Duma - Old Mutual Finance Head of Customer Engagement
Old Mutual, a leader in the insurance industry, has launched a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) service. The insurance giant will be offering competitive mobile services designed to meet the needs of today’s dynamic and connected world.
Old Mutual is set to transform mobile connectivity in the lower segment market by providing customers with unparallelled value in data packages.
“The launch of the MVNO service which will be known as Old Mutual Connect is a part of our Integrated Financial Services (IFS) strategy to deliver tangible value-added services to our customers,” says Moses Duma - Old Mutual Finance Head of Customer Engagement
“Affordable data and reliable connectivity is critical for our customers in the Mass Market to fully participate in the mainstream economy. It is also an important enabler for our customers to interact with the rest of our propositions digitally,” he adds. Kaya FM
GUEST - Gavin Lomberg, CEO at ooba Home Loans.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many prospective homebuyers left the country’s economic hub in search of coastal homes and added lifestyle benefits, however, the latest data shows encouraging signs of recovery in Gauteng’s residential property market.
“There are strong signs pointing to the ongoing recovery of Gauteng’s property market, particularly Tshwane, which has registered notable improvements in the average purchase price, first-time homebuyer demand and the investment property category,” according to Gavin Lomberg, CEO at ooba Home Loans.
Lomberg points to value for money as a key driver in Gauteng’s improved outlook. “In August 2024, ooba Home Loans’ pinned the average property purchase price in the Western Cape at R1.94 million – a price point that many prospective owners simply cannot afford,” he says. “One could speculate that those currently renting through the “higher for longer” interest rate environment, may now feel compelled to take advantage of the recent interest rate cut – likely the first of many - and will opt for areas (and regions) where they can get the most value for money.” Kaya FM
The South African equity market has delivered a muted performance in recent years – as various structural challenges have weighed down sentiment and created a difficult operating environment for businesses to thrive. The formation of a government of national unity (GNU) has prompted many investors to reconsider South Africa’s prospects, and many are optimistic that things will improve if the new government can solve some key challenges.
Jithen Pillay, portfolio manager at Allan Gray, joins Kaya Biz to discuss the SA equity market, current headwinds and potential tailwinds, and highlight some of the long-term opportunities for investors who can look through the noise. Kaya FM
GUEST – John Wessels, Data and Actuarial Science Manager at Blink by MiWay
While snow is a rare occurrence in South Africa, the recent snowfall highlights several important insurance lessons, we chat to Data and Actuarial Science Manager at Blink by MiWay, John Wessels on what these lessons are. Kaya FM
GUEST – Khali Ranenyeni, Principal Economist at Competition Commission
Competition Commission economists have warned that food prices are still too high for minimum wage households to afford, even in the face of cooling price pressures and lower fuel prices.
The latest edition of the Essential Food Price Monitoring Report by the commission found that the prices of various basic foodstuffs were not declining in line with prevailing market conditions.
As a result, many South Africans could not afford the basket of basic foods, stoking fears about food insecurity. Kaya FM
GUEST – Velma Corcoran, Regional Lead Middle East Africa at Airbnb
Cape Town’s Airbnb sector is soaring, sporting more listings than the cities of Sydney and San Francisco combined.
Data from Inside Airbnb, a collaborative data effort that reports on the expansion of Airbnb globally, shows that there are 23,564 active listings in the Mother City. Kaya FM
GUEST - Michael Fridjhon - Founder of Winex
South Africa’s wine industry is poised for a comeback, driven by rising local demand and the growing popularity of white wines like Cap Classique and Chenin Blanc in China. Exports of Cap Classique to China rose by 4% in 2023, despite a decline in overall wine exports.
Although South Africa’s wine exports to China shrank in 2023, that market remains a vital growth area for the local wine industry, with its market share steadily increasing since 2019. This year, the Chinese market is anticipated to expand further, fueled by post-pandemic recovery and growing demand for white wines – providing a significant opportunity for South African producers. Kaya FM
GUEST – Gareth Friedlander, a member of the ASISA Life and Risk Board Committee
South African life insurers paid R298 billion in claims and benefits to beneficiaries and policyholders in the first six months of 2024, according to the long-term insurance statistics released by the Association for Savings and Investment South Africa (ASISA). Payouts were for retirement annuity and endowment policy benefits, as well as claims against life, disability, critical illness and income protection policies.
Gareth Friedlander, a member of the ASISA Life and Risk Board Committee, says the R298 billion would have been paid to individuals following a tragic event like death or disability or a significant life stage change like retirement.
Despite the sizeable pay-outs, life insurers remained well-capitalised and in a solid position to honour the long-term contractual promises made to customers. Friedlander reports that the life insurance industry held assets of R4.3 trillion at the end of June 2024, while liabilities amounted to R3.9 trillion. This left the industry with free assets of R377 billion, more than double the reserve buffer required by the Solvency Capital Requirement (SCR). The SCR is regulated by the South African Reserve Bank’s Prudential Authority and is designed to protect policyholders. Kaya FM
GUEST – Segomoco Scheppers - National Transmission Company South Africa (NTCSA) interim CEO
The Department of Public Enterprises (DPE), Eskom SOC Holdings Limited and the National Transmission Company South Africa (NTCSA) are pleased to announce that the NTCSA has officially commenced trading. This milestone marks the NTCSA’s establishment as a duly constituted separate, distinct, and wholly owned subsidiary of Eskom Holdings, and is a significant step in the DPE Roadmap for Eskom towards a reformed electricity supply industry.
The NTCSA will own and operate the country’s national transmission system, the world-class System Operator, the grid strengthening function, energy market services and the International Trader. Kaya FM
GUEST – Justin Coetzee - GoMetro CEO
New electric vehicle to turn taxi industry on its head
South Africa’s first electric minibus taxi model, eKamva, was launched by a consortium led by GoMetro, alongside an integrated new electric vehicle (EV) business model and charging infrastructure product called flx EV at the Smarter Mobility Africa summit. eKamva was launched by a partnership of companies and research institutions, led by GoMetro, a transport technology platform. Kaya FM
In 1995, Burton Naicker started a career in banking in the province of Kwa Zulu Natal where he was born. He moved to Gauteng in 1998 into the insurance industry where he took on a position as a Legal Recoveries Advisor at the Telesure group of companies. Three years later he joined OUTsurance as an Investigator before being appointed as Claims Manager in 2005. Burton progressed into various senior roles of management in the Claims environment and was later appointed as CEO of SIAS (Assessing and Investigative division of OUTsurance) in 2010. In 2015 SIAS merged with OUTsurance and as a result was appointed to the role of Chief Operating Officer. He then joined MiWay in January 2022 as the CEO. Since 2015 he has also being a director of the board of the South African Insurance Crime Bureau.
On the academic side, Burton completed his banking education in 1998 and then later in 2002 a Higher Certificate in Insurance (HCII). In 2007 he completed the Management Advanced Programme (MAP) at the University of the Witwatersrand and in 2015 graduated with his Master's in Business Administration at the same institute. Burton has an active interest in sport and healthy living and is happily married with two sons. Kaya FM
GUEST - Siya Madikane, Public Affairs and Comms Manager at Google SA
Google today announced that applications for the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa: Black Founders program are open to Black-owned startups in South Africa.
The fund is a reflection of Google's commitment to supporting startups in South Africa, recognizing the important role that entrepreneurial activity plays in economic and social development in the region. Kaya FM
GUEST – Jason Swartz, Portfolio Manager at Old Mutual Investment Group
Outside of the last few weeks of heightened volatility, JSE-listed equities have been on a ‘tear’ recently as positive domestic news flows and local investor sentiment push share prices higher; yet it will take renewed foreign investor interest to push local equities back up to more sustained levels. And currently foreign investors are still taking a wait-and-see approach to local markets. Kaya FM
GUEST - Wayne Duvenage - CEO of OUTA
Gauteng Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Finance and Economic Development Lebogang Maile says the province will not go bankrupt.
He was speaking at a briefing on Monday where he outlined the debt repayment structure of the failed e-toll revenue collection project.
The first payment of R3.8 billion has been made and is the first of a five-year plan to cover the historical debt of R12.9 billion. Kaya FM
At the helm of Gauteng’s biggest business radio show, Kaya Biz, is Gugulethu who will be leading the conversation on what is next for the Afropolitan business landscape. The show presents local and international business news, entrepreneurship, corporate and investment banking. Since its inception in May 2006 Kaya Biz has grown from a half-an-hour daily finance update to an hour show bringing compelling business news and market reviews to listeners. Kaya FM
GUEST - Tarris Arnold, Business Development Manager at Luno, South Africa’s largest crypto investment app
South Africans are increasingly using crypto to pay for goods and services according to a new report by Luno, South Africa’s largest crypto investment app and a licensed FSP.
The new Luno report, Bridging digital and fiat - crypto’s role in modern payments, highlights the growth of crypto payments, with retail giant Pick n Pay for instance recording over R1 million in monthly sales paid in crypto from just R25,000 a year ago.
In a recent Luno social media poll, almost 40% of respondents said they used crypto to make payments. This provides an indication of how crypto is being used by those potentially more familiar with crypto than the broader public. Kaya FM
GUEST – David van Wyk - Lead researcher at Bench Marks Foundation
SA’s mining industry shed almost 7,000 jobs in the second quarter of 2024, which comes to nearly 10,000 mining jobs lost in the first half of the year. What happens to all these people? Kaya FM
GUEST – Vuyiswa Ramokgopa – MEC for Agriculture and Rural department
Many smallholder farmers in Gauteng and across the Gauteng City Region (GCR) often face serious difficulties in accessing markets for a variety of reasons. The Gauteng Agriculture and rural department has introduced an egg aggregation packhouse solution to ensure that smallholder farmers and SME AgriProcessors receive the necessary support as well a platform to access markets more effectively by aggregating produce and reducing the cost of infrastructure. kaya959 · Kaya FM
GUEST – Pam Yako – SANParks Board Chairperson
South African National Park recently launched their Vision 2040, an ambitious initiative aimed at reshaping the future of conservation in South Africa. kaya959 · Kaya FM
GUEST – Elize Kruger - independent economist
Amid persistently high inflation, any increases South Africans saw in their wages and salaries over the past few years failed to keep up with the pace at which prices were rising, ultimately leaving households worse off.
But after five consecutive months of improvement, take-home pay in SA is now on track to beat inflation for the first time since 2020. kaya959 · Kaya FM
GUEST - Dumo Mbethe, CEO of Momentum Corporate
By 16 September, the Momentum Group received 112 449 two-pot withdrawal applications to a cumulative value of R1.7 billion. The Group had paid 81% of all withdrawal applications and this percentage is rising steadily.
Momentum says of the key trends observed since the two-pot launch is the age distribution of applicants. Initially, most requests came from the 40-to-49-year age group, which made up almost 40% of applications. kaya959 · Kaya FM
GUEST - Lesibana Shika: Head, Product Management: Consumer Credit Card, Standard Bank SA
Contactless payments are surging in popularity, with over half of Standard Bank's customers now opting to tap their cards or phones at supermarkets, restaurants, and fuel stations. As merchants increasingly adopt this technology and digital wallets become more popular, contactless payments have risen to account for 53% of all transactions, up from 42% just two years ago. kaya959 · Kaya FM
In June, the United Nations reported that South Africa ranks 115th out of 167 countries in progressing towards achieving the SDGs by 2030. Gender equality and partnerships for the goals are the targets where South Africa has performed the best. The UN noted that the country has achieved, or is on track to attain, some 33.8% (one in three) of the 213 indicators that comprise the 17 SDG categories. The country has unfortunately seen limited progress on 43.2% of goals, with 23.0% of goals seeing a deteriorating trend. kaya959 · Kaya FM
Zwelakhe Mnguni – Chief Investment Officer at Benguela Global Funds ManagerInsider trading is when you buy and sell securities based on material information that is inaccessible to the general public. Material non-public information (MNPI), is financial information about a publicly traded company or security that can influence an investor's willingness to buy or sell certain assets, like stocks and ETFs.
Insider trading creates a culture of corruption that hurts the market's liquidity and efficiency. kaya959 · Kaya FM
GUEST - James Agin - Corporate And Investment Banking Managing Principal, Absa Kenya
Invested in your story” means that Absa co-creates with businesses to achieve their goals. They are deeply committed to understanding and supporting their clients’ journeys - celebrating their achievements, acknowledge their hard work, and providing the guidance they need to succeed. It’s about transforming banking from a transactional service into a partnership built on empathy and mutual success. Kaya FM
On tonight’s edition of Ekasinomics we chat to Michelle and Morongwe Mokone who are the co-owners of Mo’s Crib, a company that produces a range of handmade home décor products.
Their product range includes handwoven baskets, planters, trays, wall art and home outdoor items. Kaya FM
GUEST - Brian Mhlanga – Business and leadership coach
Being an entrepreneur can be an isolating experience, with feelings of misunderstanding or alienation. But it doesn't have to be. Taking risks and disrupting the status quo is something everyone should do in business, but you have to make sure you have others along for the ride. Kaya FM
GUEST - Adrian Gore – Discovery Group CEO
Discovery Group recorded a 17% jump in its normalised operating profit boosted by a strong performance from Discovery SA and Vitality Global. Discovery’s banking business passed key milestones earlier than anticipated, with the Bank increasingly enabling all the South African businesses as a full-service digital bank. Kaya FM
GUEST - Nikki Quinn, Retail Lead for sub–Saharan Africa at NIQ and GfK
South African shoppers spent a total of R181 Billion on FMCG in the second quarter (Q2) 2024, representing a 4,8% uplift compared with the same period last year. The Tech & Durables (T&D) market, meanwhile, remained virtually unchanged from the same period last year at a value of R31 billion for Q2 2024.
This is according to insights from the NIQ Retail Spend Barometer which combines data from NIQ and GfK to measure the turnover in sales of FMCG and T&D goods purchased in stores across South Africa. Kaya FM
Mteto Nyati is is currently the Chairman at Eskom Holdings, executive chairman of BSG, a homegrown consulting and technology company that specialises in strategy execution. In BSG he holds a 40% shareholding through his investment vehicle, Wazo Investments. Mteto is also the chairman of Eskom. Previously, he was the Group Chief Executive of Altron and Chief Executive Officer of MTN South Africa.
He is the author of the number one bestseller, Betting on a Darkie, a book about his life as a shopkeeper’s son, family man, and business leader at local and multinational corporates. Mteto mentors and coaches senior executives, including CEOs as well as up and coming business professionals. In 2021, the University of Johannesburg’s College of Business and Economics awarded Mteto an honorary doctorate in IT Management. He holds a BSc in Mechanical Engineering from the University of KwaZulu Natal. Kaya FM
GUEST - Professor Parmi Natesan, CEO of Institute of Directors in South Africa
Why, and in what ways, do board meetings become ‘too operational’? Kaya FM
GUEST - Harry Scherzer, CEO, FutureForex
On 18 September, the Reserve Bank is set to cut interest rates for the first time since the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The decrease, which will come as welcome news to heavily indebted consumers, follows a series of increases designed to curb inflation and which resulted in interest rates hitting a 15-year high of 8.25% in May last year.
As welcome as the rate cut will be to anyone paying off a home, car, or student loan and to those with credit card or store debt, it has other implications too. At least some of these implications will impact individuals and businesses moving large sums of money internationally. Kaya FM
GUEST – Ndia Magadagela - CEO and Co-founder of Everlectric
Everlectric is an electric vehicle leasing business, and the first South African company of its kind to package leading international electric vehicles, charging infrastructure and innovative finance solutions. By removing the hurdles to adopting a cleaner and more efficient future, Everlectric is leading the nation’s logistics and fleet industry’s transition to environmentally responsible, operationally efficient, and commercially attractive electric vehicles. Kaya FM
GUEST - Sunette Mulder, senior policy advisor at Association for Savings and Investment South Africa [ASISA]
The local Collective Investment Schemes (CIS) industry reported assets under management of R3.64 trillion at the end of the second quarter of 2024, a growth of 2% from the end of the first quarter of 2024 when assets stood at R3.57 trillion. Over the 12 months to 30 June 2024, assets grew by 8.3%, driven primarily by stock market performance.
The CIS industry statistics for the quarter and year ended June 2024, released by the Association for Savings and Investment South Africa (ASISA), show that despite delivering consistent and steady growth in assets under management, the local CIS industry recorded net outflows of R30 billion (excluding reinvestments) in the second quarter of this year. Kaya FM
GUEST – Patrick Kelly, Chief Director for Price Statistics at STATS SA
Consumer inflation has dipped below the SA Reserve Bank's key target of 4.5%, cooling to 4.4% in August from 4.6% in July.
This should seal the deal for an interest rate cut on Thursday. Kaya FM
GUEST – Fatsani Banda, The Excise Tax & Public Policy Manager at SAB
SAB reiterates calls for revised approach to excessive beer excise tax increases
Government is disproportionately reliant on the beer-making industry for excise duties, which accounted for 34.7% of total excise revenues in the 2023/24 financial year, JSE-listed beer maker South African Breweries (SAB) has said.
Over the past few years, the company has made repeated appeals to the government to reconsider its approach to beer taxation policies. Kaya FM
Trudie Broekmann – Consumer law expert
Have you ever signed up for a gym in January, only to stop going after a few weeks? You’re not alone — and gyms depend on it. In this conversation we explore why gyms intentionally make it very difficult to cancel. Kaya FM
GUEST – David Morobe, Executive General Manager for Impact Investing at Business Partners Limited
As South Africa continues to navigate the outcomes of a significant election, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) have demonstrated resilience, maintaining confidence in their future despite persistent challenges and uncertainty. This is one of the key findings of the Q2 2024 SME Confidence Index, an ongoing piece of research conducted by Business Partners Limited, specialist SME financier. Kaya FM
GUEST - Odwa Nweba, Legal Practitioner at the Stellenbosch University Law Clinic and one of the Co-authors of the report
Since the 1990s, South Africans (both in and out of work) have been borrowing extensively to meet their own and their dependents’ needs and expectations, leaving the country with unsustainable levels of debt, much of it with unsecured lenders and loan sharks. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dashni Vilakazi, MD of The MediaShop JHB
The influencer economy has skyrocketed in recent years, turning social media personalities into powerful marketing tools. This business model is built on the ability to connect with and influence a large audience.
Once a niche marketing strategy, teaming up with social media stars may be the only way for brands to truly get ahead now.
Influencing has become big business for creators, and companies are noticing. Traditionally, brands collaborate with influencers on one-off sponsored product placements. But increasingly, they're integrating these creators into their core marketing strategies and teams. In some cases, they're even training their own staff to become in-house influencers. Kaya FM
GUEST - Harry Kellan - FNB CEO
FNB’s retail customer base has grown to 8.6 million, but its customers are feeling the strain of high interest rates as the group’s credit impairment charges shot up 50% and credit losses increased.
In parent company FirstRands’ results for the year ended 30 June, FNB said that its retail customer numbers increased by 4% to 8.6 million. Kaya FM
GUEST - Francois Prinsloo, PwC Africa’s Banking and Capital Markets Leader
SA’s major banks demonstrate a durable financial performance in the first half of 2024 against complex operating conditions and elevated levels of uncertainty. The banks reported a combined headline earnings growth of 2.5% against 1H23 to R56.8bn, and a combined ROE of 16.9% Kaya FM
GUEST - Dr Mvuyisi Mzukwa Chairperson of the SA Medical Association
With President Cyril Ramaphosa confirming that he will meet with business organisations in the coming days to discuss their objections to the NHI, we speak to a representative of the medical practitioners who will be responsible for the operational side of NHI to understand where they stand on the matter. Kaya FM
GUEST – Nkhensani Mashibyi, Economist at Absa AgriBusiness
Poultry price increases is expected to ease, after double-digit hikes over the past two years.
According to the Spring edition of the Absa AgriTrends Report, a stronger rand and robust growth in production by key global suppliers such as Brazil, could see the average price of chicken products increase by just over 1% this year in some instances. Kaya FM
Thobo Khathola is an education specialist and enthusiast.
He prides himself in having assisted thousands of students in Southern Africa
Starting from the back of the boot of his car. Thobo’s tutoring journey has spread all over Southern Africa, creating employment for over 300 young people through Lion Tutoring International. Kaya FM
GUEST – Kwanele Ngogela – Just Share senior inequality analyst
The average lowest paid worker in the wholesale and retail sector would need to work for 21 months to earn what an average CEO in this sector earns in one day.
New research by Just Share looks at ten JSE-listed companies in the wholesale and retail space, based on analysis of these companies’ most recent public disclosures. The research highlights significant pay gaps and poor levels of diversity at the board and management level.
Shoprite Holdings, Pick n Pay, Pepkor Holdings, The Foschini Group, Woolworths, Mr Price Group, Dis-Chem, Clicks Group, Truworths International, and Spar Group together employ 389,766 full-time employees and account for R833.7 billion in yearly revenue. Overall, the wholesale and retail sector is the second-largest employer in South Africa after government, employing about 17% of the workforce.
The sector’s performance on gender and racial diversity at board and top management levels is mixed, with disappointingly low targets set by several of the companies analysed here. Kaya FM
GUEST – Estienne de Klerk - Growthpoint Properties South Africa CEO
SA’s largest primary listed real estate investment trust (Reit), Growthpoint Properties, says high interest rates globally will remain a challenge into FY 2025, weighing on its distributable income per share (Dips).
The group flagged that its Dips for the current financial year are expected to decline by up to 5% in a release of its annual results for the year ended 30 June 2024 on Wednesday.
Growthpoint’s comments come despite its share price rallying strongly in recent months, due in large part to market expectations around interest rate cuts. Reits, which are highly leveraged by their nature, stand to benefit from rate cuts. Kaya FM
GUEST - Pension Funds Adjudicator Muvhango Lukhaimane
As consumers cash out their pension funds under the two-pot retirement system, the Pension Funds Adjudicator said it had received scores of complaints from frustrated consumers who are unable to tap into their savings. Kaya FM
GUEST - Gugulethu Mfuphi – KAYA 959 Host
The debate between United States Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump started with a handshake and ended with the candidates painting one another as awful leaders who should not be elected. Kaya FM
GUEST: Tshepo Matseba - Managing Director of Reputation 1st
In this conversation we take a closer look at a phenomenon that's become increasingly prevalent in the corporate world: the reluctance of companies to apologize for their mistakes. Despite the growing trend of consumers demanding accountability and transparency, many corporations seem to be struggling with the simple act of saying "sorry." Kaya FM
GUEST – Nafisa Akabor: Tech expert
Apple's latest flagship smartphone, the iPhone 16, has been met with much anticipation and excitement. With its sleek design, powerful processor, and cutting-edge features, it's undoubtedly a technological marvel. However, the high price tag has sparked concerns about accessibility for many South Africans. Kaya FM
GUEST – Jaya Leibowitz - Retail Legal manager at Allan Gray
Next week is National Wills Week in South Africa. Sadly, many investors accumulate assets but fail to have a valid will in place – leading to lengthy delays which often end in unfavourable outcomes for their loved ones after the pass away. This annual initiative encourages every South African to ensure that they have a will in place – regardless of their net worth – so that their assets are disposed of in accordance with their wishes after their death. Kaya FM
GUEST – Hayley Ivines-Downes - Managing Executive Real Estate at Lightstone
The volume of properties transferred in 2009 (309 899) is not far from the 280 941 transfers in 2023, which reinforces how the property market’s performance mirrors the country’s difficulties.
The 15-year high was recorded in 2022 (348 488) as the market recovered strongly from the period’s low in 2020 when Covid dampened property sales, along with economic activity across the globe. Kaya FM
GUEST - Duzi Ndlovu, Ashburton’s CEO
Ashburton Investments and FNB Wealth and Investments today announced a partnership with international investment powerhouse Morgan Stanley Investment Management Limited (MSIM) to strengthen its global capabilities.
The partnership will result in enhanced international capabilities for both Ashburton’s and FNB Wealth and Investments’ South African clients. Both brands will benefit from MSIM’s research and portfolio management in global equity markets. The partnership will allow MSIM to gain access into new Sub-Saharan African markets where FNB currently operates. Kaya FM
Owners of Mall of Africa and Waterfall City, Attacq delivered a robust set of annual results with a 7% revenue increase to R2.60 billion.
We chat to the group's CFO, Raj Nana on their latest set of results. Kaya FM
WEALTH CREATION: Investing in cattle as a diversification strategy.
GUEST – Ayanda Majola and Kagiso Tloubatla – Co founders of SV Capital
If the current coronavirus crisis has taught us anything it is to make sure our investments are diversified. When it comes to investing in financial assets, we ensure diversification by investing in funds that provide exposure to local and offshore equities, bonds, property, gold and cash. Kaya FM
GUEST: Paul Byrne, Head of Data Insights & Customer Success at Pnet
A Pnet Job Market Trends Report has revealed the top five jobs that are in-demand in South Africa. The report offers insights into recruitment and employment trends in the South African market, according to Pnet. Kaya FM
GUEST – Zanele Luvuno – Managing Director of Metamorphosis Integrated Solutions
You’ve spent your career building new skills and expertise to start an upward path and thrive as an employee. But favoritism in the workplace, whether it comes from managers or coworkers, can impede your growth and create a toxic work environment.
Favoritism could be the reason your manager chooses others over you for important promotions, raises, and responsibilities. It could also make you feel left out of social events where only the “favorites” get invited. Kaya FM
GUEST – Professor Adrian Saville – Professor in economics, finance & strategy at the Gordon Institute of Business Science
President Cyril Ramaphosa says he was able to boost the prospects of more balanced trade with China on what he called a “hugely successful” state visit to that country this week.
He said many of the eight agreements which SA and China signed on the trip are aimed at increasing and improving trade with China, making it more balanced, including by opening the Chinese market. He said China is SA’s largest trade partner, but there is currently a large imbalance, mostly because SA mainly exports raw materials to China and imports mostly manufactured goods. Kaya FM
GUEST – Thezi Mabuza - Deputy Commissioner at the National Consumer Commission
The National Consumer Commission recalled 20 products in Q1/2024. These included Knorr Onion Gravy, Dark & Lovely Moisture Plus Kit and more.
Deputy Commissioner at the NCC, Thezi Mabuza unpacks how the commission protects consumers from unsafe products. Kaya FM
GUEST – Amanda Cromhout - CEO of Truth
Market research firm BrandMapp and consultancy Truth have published the 2023/24 Loyalty Whitepaper, revealing which loyalty programmes are the most used in South Africa – with Checkers Xtra Savings now in the top spot.
The whitepaper looks are different economic segments, namely the ‘economically active’ group of South Africans – homes with a monthly household income of at least R10,000 – and the ‘mass market’ consumer – lower-income households earning less than R10,000 a month.
Economically active consumers only represent 30% of all adults but are 100% of the country’s tax-paying base and 85% of all consumer spending. The most popular loyalty programmes change significantly across segments. Kaya FM
GUEST: Tshepiso Kobile, CEO of South African Venture Capital and Private Equity Association (SAVCA)
Despite growing concerns about the turbulent macroeconomic outlook, the high-interest rate environment and fundraising challenges, Southern Africa’s Private Equity (PE) industry has surged forward. With 2024 being referred to as the ‘ultimate election year’ on both local and global fronts, PE firms were called to navigate their way through a frenzied economic climate in the lead up to voting day and beyond. Still, business sentiment remained positive heading into the new year, with fundraising activity rising to a 13-year high. Kaya FM
GUEST – Abigail Mukhuba – SANLAM Group CFO
Sanlam today reported robust operating performance across the group in its 2024 interim results. This was based on consistent implementation of the business strategy in the last four years, which centres on enhancing organic growth while complementing this with strategic acquisitions.
The group’s earnings momentum continued, growing net result from financial services (NRFFS) by 19% per share to a new high of over R7 billion for the first half of the year. This reflects strong trading performances across the group, the advantages of scale and market positions, diversification by geography and line of business, and continued focus on operational efficiency. Kaya FM
GUEST – Tim Masela - National Payments System Department Head
The South African Reserve Bank (SARB), which operates, regulates and oversees the national payment system (NPS), has today published its inaugural Payments Study Report (study). The study, the first of its kind in South Africa, uses individuals’ payment data and provides extensive insight into how the public perceives and uses various payment methods and instruments on offer in the country.
The SARB’s multi-year strategy and framework for payments, Vision 2025, identified the need for the SARB to gather information on the use of the NPS and help deliver on its goal of transparency and public accountability. This information can be used by the central bank, other regulators, policy makers and payment service providers to better understand consumer behaviour as well as potential opportunities and risks in the payments landscape. The information contained in the study can also assist in the design and implementation of more convenient, efficient and safer payment instruments and methods for South African consumers and businesses.
The study, commissioned in 2023, supplements the payments information that the SARB already has access to through the domestic settlement system (the South African Multiple Option Settlement (SAMOS) system), retail payment systems and returns gathered from payment service providers such as banks and non-banks. Kaya FM
GUEST – Brandon Cohen – Chairperson: National Automobile Dealers' Association (NADA)
The rise of Chinese car brands in South Africa has been notable in recent years, with many Chinese automakers now outpacing legacy brands like Mazda, Land Rover, and Volvo. Central to their success is their focus on affordability and value for money, key factors that are resonating with South African consumers amid challenging economic conditions.
In the first quarter of 2024, new vehicle sales in South Africa declined by 5.6% compared to the same period in 2023, although there was a slight 0.2% increase from the previous quarter. Kaya FM
GUEST - Mpumi Mpofu - CEO of the Airports Company South Africa
Airports Company South Africa reported an impressive after-tax profit of R472 million. Despite operating in a relatively challenging global economic environment, ACSA’s revenue increased by 16% to R7.0 billion from the R6.0 billion reported in the previous financial year, with earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) increasing by 51% to R2.9 billion (2022/23: R1.9 billion). Kaya FM
Yesterday’s narrower CA deficit for 3rd straight quarter, and implications for bonds & rands going forward
IMF wants SA to legislate a debt ceiling: why is this important, and how feasible is it?
On the markets: Gold back above $2500 + ZAR firming below 17.80 - what does this tell us about NFP expectations / USD + FOMC? Kaya FM
GUEST – Zamabomvu Ngubane - Head of eBucks Rewards
FNB eBucks in collaboration with Pick n Pay will offer qualifying FNB customers a loaf of bread every week for 99c through a voucher initiative at all stores nationwide. From 1 September, FNB Easy PAYU and Easy Bundle customers can purchase up to four loaves a month at 99c per loaf by swiping their cards for any amount when purchasing goods at Pick n Pay stores. The 99c bread offer will no longer be available at Shoprite stores, although FNB customers will continue to earn rewards at Checkers and Shoprite. Kaya FM
GUEST - Akhil Boddu the Co-Founder at Zaio
Zaio Technologies is an EdTech platform poised to revolutionise learning in the digital age.
Founded by a dynamic team of young entrepreneurs, Zaio serves both individual consumers and businesses, offering comprehensive, job-oriented coding training through full-stack and specialised front-end and back-end courses via their online Learning Management System.
The platform delivers customised learning programs for companies to upskill their employees or aid them in running skills development learning programs, focusing on preparing youth for the technological advancements of the digital age. Kaya FM
GUEST – Mandla Sibeko, Managing Director of FNB Art Joburg.
Big art fairs offer a significant platform for local artists to showcase their work, connect with potential buyers, and gain exposure within the broader art community. In this conversation we look at the significance of FNB Art Joburg in the local art market. Kaya FM
GUEST – Athi-Patra Ruga – Visual Artist
How do artists make a living? An ongoing, almost impossible quest
Only ten percent of art school graduates make a living from their artwork. Why should this be such a pipe dream? Kaya FM
GUEST – Siphithi Sibeko - South African Revenue Service spokesperson
SARS processed almost 2,500 tax withdrawal directives on the first day alone, while some fund administrators battled with system crashes as members flooded them with withdrawal requests.
Of those, SARS had already processed 2,424 tax directives by Tuesday morning, requesting R103-million worth of withdrawals from retirement funds and delivering R6.7 millions of tax to the fiscus. Kaya FM
GUEST - Paul Rowett - co-founder of Toco
Local resident and businessman Paul Rowett, along with associates Joe Pretorius and Niel Schoeman, have found a solution for communities such as Stellenbosch’s to work together to reduce their carbon footprint by creating a currency called Toco. The initiative removes carbon from the atmosphere and supports global efforts to halve carbon emissions by 2030.
Toco is short for ton of OCO, the molecular formula for carbon dioxide. The platform enables easy climate action by turning everyday purchases into carbon reductions. Each Toco represents one ton of carbon dioxide removed from the atmosphere, and which has been independently verified as carbon-emission reductions. It can be used to pay for services and products, or to count achieved carbon reductions. Kaya FM
GUEST: Andrew Woodburn, MD of Amrop Woodburn Mann.
Inequality in South Africa is high, whether measured by income or wealth. One of the results is that there’s acute public scrutiny of executive compensation.
This is understandable given that the skew in rewards for executives compared with wages of workers is one of the key drivers of rising inequality – in South Africa and across the globe.
To see the millions upon millions that CEOs earn in this context; morally, it’s just impossible to justify. Kaya FM
GUEST - Nozizwe Vundla, Head of Sanlam Foundation.
In the rapidly evolving African finance landscape, stokvels remain a powerful yet often overlooked force capable of driving financial inclusion and economic empowerment in Africa. For example, a 2024 Ipsos market study reveals that South Africa’s stokvel sector alone is worth R50 billion, comprising over 800 000 groups and 11 million members.
However, most of these savings societies still operate informally. There’s the potential for financial organisations to empower these traditional structures to evolve by bridging the gap between informal savings practices and formal financial systems to unlock new avenues for wealth creation and economic development. Kaya FM
GUEST – Pieter Engelbrecht, Shoprite Group CEO
We speak to Pieter Engelbrecht, CEO of Shoprite Group, South Africa's largest retailer as they celebrate yet another milestone.
Shoprite has announced an impressive 12.0% increase in revenue, reaching R246.1 billion. This growth is a testament to the company's strong performance and commitment to serving customers. Kaya FM
GUEST – Koketso Mano, FNB Senior Economist
The Department of Petroleum and Mineral Resources has published the official fuel price adjustments that will kick in on Wednesday, 4 September 2024.
Following a strong start to recoveries at the beginning of August, a stable global oil price and a stronger rand versus the dollar have to be a sizeable cut for petrol and diesel.
This has translated to a fourth consecutive cut at the pumps, with prices coming down by 92 cents per litre for petrol and between 79 and 105 cents per litre for diesel. Kaya FM
GUEST – Joe de Beer - DDG, responsible for Economic Statistics at STATS SA
South Africa’s GDP increased by 0.4% in the second quarter of 2024 after 0.0% growth in the first quarter of 2024. Economists also expected an uptick of 0.4%.
Statistics SA announced the gross domestic product (GDP) figures for the second quarter this morning. Kaya FM
GUEST – Mpumi Madisa – Bidvest Group CEO
Leading services, trading and distribution Group, Bidvest has delivered a solid performance for the year ended 30 June 2024, with the underlying themes demonstrating the Group's coveted attributes of consistency in performance, strong cash flow and growth.
Trading profit grew by 8.5% to R12.4 billion, with acquisitions boosting growth by 2.9%. The trading profit margin improved slightly to 10.1% (FY2023 10.0%).
The Group declared a final dividend of 447 cents per share, bring the year's total to 914 cents, which is 4.3% higher than last year. Kaya FM
GUEST - Sam Beckbessinger - Personal finance author
Do men and women talk about the F-word differently? Turns out they do. When it comes to finances, women are more comfortable sharing than men, according to Sanlam’s recent research. Understanding how each gender prefers to speak 'money' makes for more harmonious relationships, better decision-making, and positive financial outcomes. Kaya FM
GUEST: Izak Odendaal - Old Mutual Wealth Investment Strategist
It cannot be stressed enough that early withdrawals from retirement funds should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. The biggest friend any investor has is time, since time facilitates compound growth. Early withdrawals from a retirement fund robs that money of the time to grow. Even at a relatively modest growth rate of 4% per year, R30,000 will more than double to R65,733 over 20 years. At a 6% annual growth rate, it will more than triple to R96,214, and at 10%, will grow to R201,825.
Therefore, taking R30,000 out of your retirement savings today does not mean that your future self will be R30,000 poorer. It means in future you will be poorer by R65,000 or R96,000 or R200,000 two decades from now. It gets worse, since early withdrawals will be taxed at your marginal rate, whereas growth inside a retirement fund is tax-free.
Nonetheless, estimates from the government and various financial institutions suggest that somewhere between R50 billion and R100 billion will be withdrawn in the first month or two after the two-pot system takes effect. This will largely be a one-off event, as future withdrawals will be based on one third of new contributions from September onwards and will therefore be spread out over time. Kaya FM
GUEST - Mesela Nhlapo - Chief Executive Officer of African Rail Industry Association (ARIA)
The company reported a slight improvement across operations as recovery plans have helped volumes to increase, but it has recently been hit by a judgment in which Transnet was ordered to pay over R9 billion to Sasol and TotalEnergies. Kaya FM
GUEST - Hayley Parry, Money Coach and Facilitator at 1Life's Truth About Money.
A recent 1Life Insurance survey has indicated a shift in generational debt trends among South African women, as they relentlessly pursue financial security amid economic challenges. Over 50% of respondents (led by women) indicated that they do not have generational debt and plan to keep it this way, ensuring they do not pass any debt to their own children. Kaya FM
GUEST - Miyelani Holeni Group Chief Advisor at Ntiyiso Consulting Group
Poor audit outcomes in local government continue unabated, with only 34 of South Africa’s 257 municipalities obtaining clean bills of health.
Auditor general Tsakani Maluleke highlighted this stark finding when her office presented its 2022-23 consolidated general report on local government audit outcomes to parliament on Tuesday. Kaya FM
GUEST – Mthobisi Mthimkhulu - Direct Clients manager at Allan Gray
With the implementation of the two-pot retirement system just days away, South African retirement savers will soon have greater flexibility and accessibility to their long-term savings. While access to the savings component will come as a welcome relief to those in dire need, it is vital to be mindful of the unintended consequences and guard against thinking of the savings component as an emergency fund.
Mthobisi Mthimkhulu, Direct Clients manager at Allan Gray, joins Kaya Biz to discuss how retirement savers can navigate the two-pot era and share tips for developing a long-term mindset. Kaya FM
GUEST - Mamoloko Kubayi: Human Settlements Minister
Human Settlements Minister says the rejection rate of historically disadvantaged persons applying for home loans is concerning. Kaya FM
GUEST - Kgatile Nkala, Corporate Services Executive at Transport Education & Training Authority.
In an era marked by progress and evolving societal norms, the imperative to empower women in traditionally male-dominated sectors such as transport and logistics has never been more urgent. Beyond mere diversity metrics, true empowerment begins with equipping women with the skills, insights, and business acumen necessary to compete on equal footing with their counterparts. Kaya FM
GUEST – Simon Brown – Founder of JustOneLap.
As an investor looking to diversify your portfolio, unlisted shares may seem like an attractive option, however, there can be some serious drawbacks. Kaya FM
GUEST – Andrew Fulton, Director at Eighty20
South Africa, is a country grappling with high crime rates, economic volatility and climate change. With disposable incomes under pressure, these concerns underscore the crucial role of insurance as a safety net for individuals dealing with extreme and unforeseen events. Eighty20, South Africa's leading consumer insights and data science firm, analyses the South African short-term insurance (STI) sector.
The analysis delves into the demographics of STI holders, the economic and environmental challenges impacting consumers, and the significance of understanding consumer behaviour within the sector. Short-term insurance provides coverage through policies that are typically renewed on an annual basis. This type of insurance is designed to protect against specific risks and losses, including vehicle, household and home contents insurance. It also extends to high-value items such as bicycles, smartphones, boats and airplanes. Kaya FM
GUEST - Professor Ines Meyer - Chairperson of the Living Wage South Africa Network.
Recently, Professor Ines Meyer from the University of Cape Town announced a monthly income of R15,000 net as the Living Wage figure for 2024 to the Living Wage South Africa Network (LWSAN). The amount is calculated against the self-reported quality of life of low-earning survey participants across South Africa.
In the public, this amount was met with mixed reception “A number of people insisted that R15,000 could never cover their monthly obligations,” says Ines Meyer, who is also the current chairperson of the LWSAN. She understands this sentiment. “It is hard to make ends meet on R15,000, yet most who work in South Africa earn even less.
The legally prescribed national minimum wage comes to only one third of the Living Wage. If it is difficult to live on R15,000 per month how shall those whose income is even lower get by?”. Kaya FM
GUEST - Nomvuyiso Batyi - CEO of Association of Comms and Technology
The Association of Communications and Technology (ACT) wants services like Netflix to contribute to the costs of building and upgrading the network infrastructure that supports their businesses. It wants to implement “Fair Share” arrangements in the over-the-top (OTT) space to achieve this OTT is the term telecommunications operators use to describe services like YouTube, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and Netflix that run over their infrastructure. Kaya FM
GUEST - Itumeleng Mothibeli - Managing Director: Vukile Southern Africa
JSE-listed REIT Vukile Property Fund’s Vukile Retail Academy aims to unearth and develop the next generation of talented retail entrepreneurs. The one-year programme developed by the academy will incubate emerging retail SMMEs, giving them on-the-ground experience in a formal shopping centre environment rent-free. We speak to the Managing Director: Vukile Southern Africa, Itumeleng Mothibeli. Kaya FM
GUEST – Cobus Loubser, Curro Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Curro's revenue rose by 8.3% to R2 588 million, driven by a 0.5% increase in the average number of learners, which totalled 72 758 for the first half of 2024.
Curro CEO, Cobus Loubser joins us to unpack their latest results. Kaya FM
GUEST - Frank Blackmore, Lead economist at KPMG
After holding steady for ten months in the 5–6% range, annual consumer price inflation slowed to 4,6% in July from 5,1% in June. The July inflation print is the lowest in three years since July 2021, when the rate was also 4,6%. Lower annual rates were recorded for several product groups, most notably food & non-alcoholic beverages (NAB), transport, and housing & utilities. Kaya FM
GUEST – Deon Smit is a Master Reward Specialist and SARA Executive Member.
"Cuspers" excel at connecting multiple generations within the workforce. But what exactly is a cusper, and why should organisations pay attention to them? A cusper is someone born at the intersection of two generations, embodying a blend of traits from both.
These individuals act as a generational bridge, often referred to as "generational glue" or a "micro-generation," linking one generation to the next. Understanding the generational makeup of your team is crucial, says Deon Smit, Master Reward Specialist and Executive Committee Member at the South African Reward Association (SARA). Kaya FM
GUEST – Anthony Clark – Reasercher at Small Talk Daily.
JSE-listed franchise restaurant chain Spur Corporation saw its headline earnings per share grow by 11.4% to 291.02 cents for the year ended 30 June 2024, it announced in a statement on Sens on Wednesday.
Profit before income tax was up 7.3% to R341.7 million, and revenue increased by 14% to R3.47 billion. Kaya FM
GUEST - Paul Byrne, Head of Data Insights & Customer Success at Pnet
Are there occupations where more women are trying to move into? If yes, what are those?
Pnet’s in-depth analysis on female vs male job applications over the last 3 years reveals the top 10 occupations with a significant uptake of female applicants in previously male dominated jobs. Kaya FM
GUEST – Natanya Meyer - Associate Professor at University of Johannesburg
South African women are exiting their businesses at a higher rate than they are starting and running businesses indicating they need more support in growing start-ups to the established stage of more than 3.5 years.
This is a key finding of the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) South Africa Report 2023/2024 by Stellenbosch Business School, launched today, on Women Entrepreneurship in South Africa. Kaya FM
GUEST - Nkoatse Mashamaite, National Gambling Board's Chief Compliance Officer
Money placed on sports bets in South Africa has skyrocketed over the past several years, reaching R420 billion in 2023.
At the end of FY2022/23, R815.1 billion was wagered in the entire South African gambling industry—more than the budgets of the peace and security, health, and community development clusters combined. Kaya FM
GUEST - Simon Baloyi, SASOL CEO
Energy and chemicals group Sasol recorded a R44 billion loss for its latest financial year, compared with profit of R8.8 billion a year earlier.
SASOL CEO, Simon Baloyi joins us to unpack their latest results. Kaya FM
GUEST – Phuthego Mojapele, Aviation analyst
Qatar Airways bought a 25% stake in SA Airlink as the Doha-based airline looks to expand its presence on the continent. The equity deal was officially confirmed at a meeting between airline officials at the Hyatt Regency Oryx hotel in Doha on 20 August. Kaya FM
GUEST - Lourandi Kriel, CEO SweepSouth
Inflation and the broader cost-of-living crisis are taking an immense financial and mental toll on South Africa’s domestic workers. That’s one of the standout findings from the seventh annual SweepSouth Report on Pay and Working Conditions for Domestic Workers released this week.
The report, which has tracked progress in the pay and working conditions of domestic workers since 2018, also reveals that living costs for the average domestic worker have increased by 15% in the past year, dwarfing the five percent earnings increase they accrued over the same period. Additionally, it shows that issues that arose at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, including lower job availability, remains stubbornly persistent.
The 2024 SweepSouth Report draws on survey responses from more than 5,600 workers and reveals that the domestic workforce remains predominantly female (92%), with most workers between the ages of 26 and 41 (64%). It also underlines the critical role that domestic workers play within their communities, with 83% as the sole financial support within their household. The average number of dependents remains high at four, underscoring their immense financial responsibility. . Kaya FM
GUEST – Hannah Sadiki – CEO of Bidvest Bank
The Bidvest Bank Sorbet-Preneur is an innovative empowerment programme designed to transform dedicated Sorbet employees into successful business owners. This programme offers selected Sorbet Citizens - employees who have demonstrated their commitment by working in a store for two or more years with the unique opportunity to establish and run their own franchise. Kaya FM
GUEST - Khaya Sithole - Independent Analyst and CA(SA) AND Boniwe Dunster - Human Resources Executive: Lanseria International Airport
Absa’s chief executive Arrie Rautenbach has agreed to take early retirement after discussions with the board, according to a statement released by the lender on Monday. Rautenbach is the group’s sixth CEO in just six years. His appointment was confirmed in 2022. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dr Nombasa Tsengwa – Exxaro Resources CEO
Exxaro Resources Limited reported earnings results for the half year ended June 30, 2024. For the half year, the company reported sales was R 18,981 million compared to R 18,943 million a year ago. Net income was R 3,686 million compared to R 5,905 million a year ago.
Basic earnings per share from continuing operations was R 15.23 compared to R 24.4 a year ago. Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations was R 15.23 compared to R 24.4 a year ago. Kaya FM
GUEST – Sim Tshabalala – Standard Bank Group CEO
Africa’s largest financial services provider, Standard Bank reported a resilient half-year performance amid a challenging credit market in SA. The group’s headline earnings rose 17% in constant currency, driven by solid growth in Corporate and Investment Banking, Insurance and Asset Management as well as Personal and Private Banking. Kaya FM
GUEST – Ralph Mupita - MTN Group CEO
MTN has recorded a substantial loss following the devaluation of the Nigerian Naira. In the first six months of 2024 (H1 2024), the group’s service revenue (in rand terms) dropped by 20% from R107 billion to R85 billion.
On a more positive constant currency basis, group service revenue increased by 12.1%. Kaya FM
GUEST - July Ndlovu - Thungela Resources CEO
The miner cut the half-year dividend to R2 per share (R281 million), down from R10 previously, after its profit fell 61% to about R1.2 billion in the six months to end June.
During the period energy prices continued to fall, mainly driven by the milder European and Northeast Asian winter season, which resulted in elevated coal and gas stock levels.
The group however, bolstered shareholder returns in the form of share buybacks of up to R160 million, bringing total returns to R441 million for its first half. Kaya FM
GUEST - Viwe Bacela - Head of Marketing:CIB Client Coverage, International and Strategic Projects
KayaBiz host, Gugulethu Mfuphi is joined by Viwe Bacela, the Head of Marketing: CIB Client Coverage, International and Strategic Projects at Absa CIB to chat about their exciting new brand repositioning campaign,‘Invested in your Story.’ We explore how Absa CIB is redefining their approach to banking by focusing on empathy, innovation, and seamless client experiences. Kaya FM
GUEST – Chef Phill - Founder of Unorthodox Restaurant
The Unorthodox Chef takes over Mogodu Mondays, Tlhakwana Tuesdays, Maotwana Wednesdays and Oxtail Sundays with 12-minute ready-made hearty meals.
The Unorthodox Chef Catering has grown reputable in the culinary world since its inception three years ago as a food manufacturer specialising in Mzansi’s finest traditional cuisine. Rooted in cherished family recipes and expressing love and warmth through food, the frozen meals are now available in 84 Pick ‘n Pay stores in Gauteng. Kaya FM
GUEST - Jeremy Sampson, Chairman Brand Finance Africa
If one asks what the alcoholic drink of choice in Africa is, it would be beer, and invariably a local brand. Reviewing the 2024 Brand Finance Africa 200 report (released in May 2024), there are no less than 15 brands listed from six countries: Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, and Uganda.
That said, global headwinds affect Africa just as they do the rest of the world. This includes reduced disposable income due to inflation and lack of economic growth, global warming which impacts the South African wine and spirits industry, a drop in global alcohol consumption by Gen Z, and a rise in prices of imported brands due to local currencies losing value to the US dollar. Kaya FM
GUEST - Audrey Verhaeghe, CEO of ANZA Capital,
In the start-up world you will find many views on whether men or women bring the most value. There is more consensus on the fact that diversity is where the magic happens, where 1+1=3, in the words of Audrey Verhaeghe, CEO of ANZA Capital, a female-led investment firm that is addressing the funding gap for early-stage businesses in Africa. Kaya FM
GUEST - Chad Thomas- IRS forensic investigator AND Nerosha Maseti: Lead Ombudsman - Banking Division, National Financial Ombud Scheme (NFO).
According to media reports there has been a significant increase in kidnappings in South Africa, where criminal syndicates have targeted South African entrepreneurs. The banking division of the National Financial Ombud Scheme (NFO) has received some complaints relating to kidnappings where consumers disclose their confidential banking information under duress. We investigate why SA has seen a surge in this crime. Kaya FM
GUEST - Siphamandla Mkhwanazi, FNB Senior Economist
Retail sales continued their upward trajectory in June, surging to 4.1% y/y, from 1.1% in May (revised from 0.8%). This significantly outpaced Reuters expectations of a 1.1% expansion. On a month-on-month basis, volumes rebounded by 1.6% from the 0.2% decline in May (revised up from 0.7%). This outcome means that volume sales rebounded from -0.3 q/q in 1Q, to 1.5% q/q in 2Q, implying that the retail industry will contribute positively to 2Q24 GDP growth. Kaya FM
GUEST - Reece May is a Senior Associate in the Competition Law practice at CDH
From booking accommodation and transport to purchasing products online, data analytics has given businesses the ability to use automated pricing algorithms to charge personalised prices to every customer based on their data profile.
Does this personalised pricing contravene competition law, or does it benefit competition? Kaya FM
GUEST – Sean Wibberley - HomeChoice International CEO
The Group made pleasing progress in the past six months, growing its customer base by 51%. This comes after a 39% customer growth in the previous financial year. HIL also increased disbursements by 17% to R2.8 billion, delivered Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) Gross Merchant Value (GMV) of R1.5 billion (up 174%) and increased its merchant points of presence to 8 700 (up 47%), wrote R85 million in standalone insurance premiums (up 25%) and generated R604 million in retail sales (up 2%). Cash collections increased by 32% to R5.2 billion, a notable achievement in the face of economic headwinds and a constrained consumer environment. Kaya FM
GUEST - Risenga Maluleke - Statistician-General
South Africa’s unemployment rate has jumped massively to 33.5%.
According to Stats SA’s Quarterly Labour Force Survey, the official unemployment rate increased by 0.6 percentage points from 32.9% in Q1 2024 to 33.5% in Q2 2024. Kaya FM
GUEST – Richard Carter - Head of Assurance at Allan Gray
The two-pot system has been designed to improve retirement outcomes for South Africans, while allowing some access to retirement savings in case of severe financial stress. However, there are some hidden risks that investors should be aware of to ensure they don’t inadvertently offset its intended benefits.
Richard Carter, head of Assurance, joins Kaya Biz to unpack what the new rules mean for investors and their retirement planning, and discuss the missteps investors should avoid to achieve better results. Kaya FM
GUEST – Hylton Kallner, CEO of Discovery Bank
Discovery Bank has made a strategic decision to focus on a digital-first banking model. This means they prioritize offering banking services primarily through their mobile app and online platform. We chat to Discovery Bank CEO, Hylton Kallner to understand the bank's digital strategies. Kaya FM
GUEST – Boitumelo Mosako - DBSA CEO
The DBSA continues to operate financially sustainably despite a challenging environment marked by high interest rates, subdued economic growth, worsening sovereign debt position of several African countries and challenges in the municipal and logistics sectors.
The Bank’s net profit decreased by 11.5% to R4.6 billion (2023: R5.2 billion), primarily due to lower foreign currency gains. However, the Bank’s sustainable earnings which exclude currency exchange gains or losses increased by 7% from R4.2 billion to R4.5 billion due to double digit growth in net interest income. The DBSA predominantly lends in USD and Euro to fund projects outside of South Africa. Kaya FM
GUEST – Peter Forshaw - Chief Financial Officer for Cash Converters Southern Africa.
In South Africa, pawning goods as a way to secure loans can be traced back to colonial times. Pawn shops that offered loans against jewellery, watches, tools and other comparatively small personal items of value existed in colonial Cape Town, and in other smaller cities and towns.
In modern times, pawnbroking has evolved from just lending against smaller physical assets such as gold and jewellery to accepting increasingly specialised forms of security. These days there are lenders that will accept business invoices that are awaiting payment, commercial property and high-value assets such as luxury vehicles as collateral on a loan. Kaya FM
GUEST - Kagiso Lebethe - Senior Employee Relations Specialist
Theft is viewed by the courts as a serious disciplinary offence and normally justifies dismissal at first instance regardless of the value of the property involved. It will not avail the employee the length of service which he/she has served, the absence of prior warnings, whether the property stolen was subsequently returned or even if the employee derived no direct benefit from such theft. The sanction of summary dismissal for theft, as such, is seen in most employers’ disciplinary codes in the workplace. Kaya FM
GUEST - Miyelani Holeni - Group Chief Advisor at Ntiyiso Consulting Group.
According to Salga, there are 66 municipalities considered by National Treasury to be “severely financially distressed” and the 157 that are considered “financially distressed” have severe affordability issues. This is the majority (86%) of municipalities as there are a total of 257 countrywide. What is the root cause of SA’s local government financial crisis? Kaya FM
GUEST – Wandile Sihlobo - Chief economist at the Agricultural Business Chamber of SA
With the ban on fresh produce imports from South Africa, implemented by Botswana in 2022, being extended until 2025, the EU says it is up to SA to show why the bloc, which is the country’s largest trading partner, should lift a decade-long ban on imports of SA’s red meat. Kaya FM
GUEST – Leila Fourie, the Group CEO at the JSE.
The Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) announced a stable set of results for the first half of its financial year, with a Net Profit After Tax of R493 million translating into headline earnings per share of 606 cents. The Group continues to be cash generative, with net cash generated from operations of R502.6 million (2023: R487.9 million), up 3%. Notably, these results have been achieved despite a challenging macro-economic, political and trading environment.
The JSE reported a 4.2% growth in operating income underpinned by increasingly diversified revenue streams. This solid financial performance is credited to the strong performance of the JSE’s diversified business segments and asset classes, whose year on year (Y-o-Y) growth offset the 12% decline in equity value traded (the JSE’s largest market): JSE Investor Services (JIS) grew by 28.9%; commodity derivatives revenue by 24.7%; and revenue from bonds and interest rate trading by 7.8%. Kaya FM
GUEST - Ernest North, co-founder of Naked Insurance
Data from fully digital platform, Naked Insurance, shows that customers aged below 28 are likely to choose a higher excess on their car insurance policies than those aged 29 to 55. The reason for this seems to be that younger insurance customers opt for a larger excess to reduce their monthly premiums. Kaya FM
GUEST – Andrew Fulton, Director at Eighty20.
In recent reports, the financial strain on South Africans has been widely documented. Eighty20, South Africa’s leading consumer insights and data science firm, highlights the significant impact of formal debt instalments on South African consumers.
The firm’s analysis specifically examines instalment-to-income ratios, providing a view into the financial burden faced by many in the country. Kaya FM
GUEST – Thabile Nkunjana - Agricultural economist
On July 19, Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi, the president of Botswana, wrote on X: “Our ban on imported vegetables was a powerful move to boost our local farmers & economy. This initiative empowers Batswana by promoting self-sufficiency & improving livelihoods.” The quote accompanied a short video celebrating Botswana’s improvement in vegetable production since the country banned the imports of vegetables from South Africa. Kaya FM
GUEST – Nkosinathi Mahlangu, Youth Employment Portfolio Head at Momentum Metropolitan
President Cyril Ramaphosa says prior work experience should no longer be a barrier for young people to enter the labour market. Ramaphosa was speaking at the African National Congress' (ANC) National Executive Committee (NEC) lekgotla in Boksburg on Sunday.
The announcement was met with much controversy, as some commended the president for his decisive stance while others said that it was not feasible to hire those inexperienced. Kaya FM
The Department of Petroleum and Mineral Resources has published the official fuel price adjustments that will kick in on Wednesday, 7 August 2024. 95
Unleaded petrol will cost around R22.32 at the coast and R23.11 in Gauteng, where 93 Unleaded will sink to about R22.76. Gugu speaks to the Automobile Association's Layton Beard Kaya FM
The traditional notion of physical presence as a measure of productivity and commitment is being challenged. Instead, there is a shift towards valuing emotional engagement and connection with work, even if it means employees are not always physically
present. However, an emerging trend in the modern workplace is the
concept of quiet quitting; says Janine O’Riley, Conference and Reward Awards Chair of the South African Reward Association (SARA). Kaya FM
The South African bourse extended its losses from Friday on the back of geopolitical tensions and fears over a US recession. SA’s rand also fell to around R18.62 against the US dollar by midday, down almost 2%. So how does one take advantage of these sharp markets? Gugulethu and Rob Peche AKA Finance Ghost delve deep into the markets. Kaya FM
The pre-owned watch and jewellery market is experiencing explosive growth, capturing nearly half of all global luxury resale trade and expanding at a rate of 8% annually,
outperforming the luxury industry as a whole. This trend is also evident in South Africa, with local pre-owned luxury reseller Luxity reporting an 32% increase in sales of watches and jewellery over the year alone.Co-founder, Michael Zahariev elaborates. Kaya FM
The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) revealed significant decisions made during its meeting held on July 30, 2024. These decisions include approvals for Eskom’s Regulatory Clearing Account (RCA) balance, the issuance of a new distribution license, and the publication of a consultation paper on congestion curtailment. Energy expert Adil Nchabeleng explains what this means. Kaya FM
759 businesses have shut down in South Africa since the start of the year, but this is down from a year prior. According to Stats SA’s latest data, 121 companies were
liquidated in June 2024. 104 of these closures were voluntary (12 less than in June
2024), while 17 were compulsory (5 more than in June 2024). SACCI CEO, Alan Mukoko explains why we're seeing this trend. Kaya FM
Today the South African Revenue Service (Sars) has delayed the implementation of a 45% tariff on importing clothing products to South Africa, designed to address the tax loopholes exploited by Temu and Shein. But to clear confusion around taxes on imports from Chinese e-retailers Shein, Temu ,Donald MacKay is founder and chief executive of XA Global Trade Advisors will help us. Kaya FM
South African taxpayers find themselves in a precarious position where they only find out they owe SARS money once SARS has taken money from their bank account. How do you ensure that this never happens to you or those you care about? André Daniels , Head of Tax Controversy and Dispute Resolution at Tax Consulting SA unpacks this. Kaya FM
Gugulethu and Marees Bostander, Head of Brand Strategy and Sponsorships at Liberty emphasis the importance of businesses in staying ahead, evolving and adapting in this era where change is the only constant. Kaya FM
According to reports, the revamped and now profitable SAA could be attractive to a potential suitor. Aviation expert Guy Leitch explains. Kaya FM
Dis-Chem’s leadership is facing a huge amount of pressure from shareholders as the
pharmaceutical retail group has zero black representation at the executive management level.
The company’s leadership was questioned about the lack of representation at their annual general meeting. Israel Noko of NPI Governance Consulting addresses why transformation is such a huge problem in SA companies when it comes to top management. Kaya FM
GUEST - Mimi Masala, divisional director at Cashbuild
Capitec Bank, Cashbuild, and the National Housing Finance Corporation (NHFC) have collaborated to launch Zakhelikhaya, a housing assistance programme that aims to address South Africa’s affordable housing backlog by providing accessible housing solutions. Kaya FM
GUEST – Tlalane Ntuli, Co-founder of Space Fanatics
Space Fanatics, the newly established property turnkey project management firm, is revolutionising the design and built environment. Spearheaded by a dynamic duo: Tlalane Ntuli and Tumi Matsau.
Space Fanatics, focuses on fusing the elements of construction and space design into a cohesive, greater whole for their clients. By managing and coordinating teams of top-tier specialist implementation partners, including architects, engineers, builders, and interior decorators, Space Fanatics ensures that all aspects of every project are impeccably executed. Kaya FM
GUEST – Zwelakhe Mnguni – Chief Investment Officer at Benguela Global Funds Manager
Food, fashion and beauty product retailer Woolworths expects a double-digit drop in its earnings per share for the 53 weeks to 30 June 2024, it announced in a trading update on Sens on Wednesday.
The giant among South Africa’s retailers, Shoprite, on Tuesday reported a 12% surge in annual merchandise sales, which it attributes to a combination of new store openings and robust sales across most of its store brands. Kaya FM
GUEST – Michael Naidoo’s, CEO - Fleet Management and Leasing at Wesbank
Wesbank has vehemently denied allegations that they exclude black-owned car workshops, including mechanical shops and panel beaters, access to work opportunities through the RT46 tender governmental tenders. Kaya FM
GUEST – John Wessels, Data and Actuarial Science Manager at Blink by MiWay
Motor insurance premiums can vary hugely. There are many factors at play – for example the make and model itself. In this conversation we unpack some of the reasons why insurance costs may differ among different car brands Kaya FM
GUEST - Cassie Jaganyi, Head of Communications for Uber South Africa
Recent media coverage regarding a three-year vehicle age policy for drivers on Uber in South Africa has caused some confusion due to its inaccuracy. Uber would like to take this opportunity to clarify the policy that came into effect in 2022.
While some have understood the policy to mean that all drivers on the platform must drive cars younger than three years old, that is not the case. It applies only to new drivers signing up to the platform. Kaya FM
GUEST – Belinda Carbutt - Group Savings and Investments specialist at Allan Gray
With the 2024 Olympics officially underway, all eyes are on the dedicated athletes who have spent their lives chasing gold. Their stories of resilience, discipline and strategic thinking offer invaluable lessons not only for aspiring sports champions, but also for investors.
Just as athletes achieve greatness through perseverance and strategic planning, investors too can achieve investment success through discipline and commitment.
Belinda Carbutt, specialist in Group Savings and Investments, joins Kaya Biz to discuss the parallels between pursuing Olympic glory and the journey to financial independence. Kaya FM
GUEST – Sello Mosai - Chairman of HDI Automotive Aftermarket Association Forum
The Automotive Aftermarket Association Forum (AAAF) has warned that more than 162 000 jobs were at risk among the predominantly black-owned Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in the automotive aftermarket industry due to the closure of dozens of workshops daily under the controversial multibillion rand RT46 Government Tender. Kaya FM
GUEST – Isaah Mhlanga, Chief Economist at RMB
Geopolitical risk typically arises from tensions that disrupt the normal course of international relations and tends to increase when peaceful conditions shift due to war, the threat of war, sanctions, or diplomatic conflicts.In this conversation we look at Argentina, Kenya and Japan’s economies. Kaya FM
GUEST – Bitsa Lenkopane - North West MEC for economic development, environment, conservation and tourism
In a move to safeguard the well-being of consumers, the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism in the North West has launched a campaign on spaza shops.
The Latela Molao campaign, loosely translated to follow the rules, is targeting spaza shops selling expired products.
The campaign is spearheaded by the department's consumer affairs directorate.
The campaign came on the back of outrage in various communities, calling for all spaza shops owned by foreign nationals to be closed. Kaya FM
GUEST – Steven Powell, head of ENSafrica's forensics practice.
Corrupt South African businesspeople, politicians, government officials, and tenderpreneurs use crooked car dealerships to buy luxury cars and avoid detection by SARS and lifestyle audits. In this conversation we interrogate other ways that the rich and corrupt use to conceal their assets from the state. Kaya FM
GUEST – Reggie Sibiya, the chief executive at Fuel Retailers' Association
Depending on location and revenue estimates, becoming a petrol station franchisee can cost up to R40 million, with estimated earnings of around R390,000 per month or R4.68 million a year. Reggie Sibiya helps us unpack the cost of owning a petrol station. Kaya FM
GUEST - Paul Makube- FNB Commercial's senior agricultural economist
The latest export estimates from the Citrus Growers' Association of Southern Africa (CGA) showed a further reduction in orange exports for the 2024 season underpinned by a combination of inclement weather in the production areas and the increased competition from the juicing market.
Weather conditions have not been favourable with drier and warmer conditions reducing fruit sizes, followed recently by freezing conditions in some areas. Surging international orange juice prices due to production cuts in the US and Brazil spurred the recent upswing in demand for the juicing market locally. Consequently, orange juice prices have increased by 34% since the start of 2024 at US432/ pound (lbs) after reaching an all-time high of US486/ lbs during May 2024.
On the export side, the CGA expects Navel orange volumes at 21 million (15kg) cartons relative to the opening seasonal estimate of 25.7 million cartons. For Valencias, the new estimate is 51.6 million cartons which is down by 11% from the original estimate for the season with Letsitele, Hoedspruit and the Senwes (Marble Hall and Groblersdal) areas being the biggest contributors to the reduced estimate. Kaya FM
GUEST – Hugo Pienaar, Chief Economist at Mineral Council of South Africa
The Minerals Council says that South Africa should address energy and logistical constraints before pushing for export taxes as a way of nudging miners to undertake local mineral beneficiation and highlighted that this approach could result in reduced productivity and investment inflows. Kaya FM
GUEST – Prof Patrick Bond - Political economist
Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau has called for an extension of the US African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa) when it expires next year to provide long-term certainty to investors in Africa and to traders between the continent and the US. Kaya FM
GUEST - Koketso Mano, FNB Senior Economist
Headline inflation was 5.1% y/y in June, down slightly from 5.2% in May. The print was slightly lower than our 5.2% prediction but aligned with the consensus expectation. Monthly headline inflation was 0.1%, driven by core price pressures (contributed over 0.2ppt) and food (added 0.1), while fuel shaved off over 0.2ppt. Kaya FM
GUEST - Bradley Maseko - Founder & CEO of Seseko EdTech
Seseko EdTech is dedicated to leveraging the power of Virtual Reality and Robotics to revolutionize the educational experiences of children in marginalized communities. By
integrating cutting-edge technology into the learning process and equipping children with the skills necessary for future success in a rapidly evolving world. Kaya FM
GUEST – Tim Ball, partner at Webber Wentzel.
Trademark registration is a proactive measure to mitigate legal risks associated with brand infringement. Without a registered trademark, you may find yourself in a precarious situation where another business uses a similar mark, causing confusion among customers and potentially damaging your brand’s reputation. In this conversation we investigate what happens after the initial trademark application process. Kaya FM
GUEST - Dougie Aristides, Marketing Director at Takis Biltong
Takis Biltong, one of SA’s most revered brands, fought a nine-year battle all the way to the Supreme Court of Appeal to protect its trademark against infringement by Mexican-registered company Grupo Bimbo, which was found to be selling tortilla chips in SA under the name Takis Fuego. Kaya FM
GUEST - Kenneth Mathivha - Tshenuwani Farisani Foundation
The Tshenuwani Farisani Foundation, which represents community members affected by the VBS collapse has revealed that more than 500 destitute women, men, burial societies and investments organizations around Venda and elsewhere bankrupt. Kaya FM
GUEST - Michael Jordaan, Bank Zero Chair
On 25 April 2024, the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) officially launched the Corporation for Deposit Insurance (CODI), which aims to protect bank depositors and enhance the public’s confidence in South Africa’s banking system. CODI was established as a legal entity, with effect from 24 March 2023 pursuant to the amendments to the Financial Sector Regulation Act, 2017, (FSRA) by the Financial Sector Laws Amendment Act, 2021, and the Minister of Finance’s commencement schedule. Kaya FM
GUEST – Brent Williams CEO of CDH (Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr)
Tech start-up LawLabz, in collaboration with leading corporate and commercial law firm, Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr (CDH), CloudEssentials, and the Nelson Mandela University recently came together to launch HiveLaw. This innovative legal office enables employees of the law clinic and its students to use the same technology they would encounter in a modern legal practice – and then put it to the test with real cases. Kaya FM
GUEST – Babalwa Nonkenge – Head of Retail Investments at Nedbank
As South Africa celebrates Savings Month this July, the nation's resilience and adaptability in the face of economic challenges continue to shine through. Despite ongoing financial pressures, South Africans are demonstrating a strong desire to secure their financial futures through savings. This commitment to financial wellbeing was highlighted in the Nedbank Segment Tracker research conducted at the end of 2023, which revealed that while many consumers experience financial stress, they also express a keen interest in improving their financial situation. Kaya FM
GUEST – Gavin Lomberg, CEO of ooba Home Loans
The Quarter 2 2024 (Q2 ‘24) statistics released by South Africa’s foremost home loan comparison service, ooba Home Loans, reveal that the residential property sector is now poised for a steady recovery, with some of the most interesting developments taking place amongst homebuyers aged 18 -25.
“The imminent rate cuts as well as the political stability and expected market friendly economic environment linked to the establishment of the Government of National Unity (GNU) will lend momentum to the recovery in the coming months,” explains Gavin Lomberg, CEO of ooba Home Loans Kaya FM
GUEST - Paul Gerard, Managing Director at Flanagan & Gerard
JSE-listed property group Burstone has concluded a R380 million transfer deal for The Neighbourhood Square shopping centre in Linksfield. Along with co-owners Flanagan & Gerard, Burstone will take over 50% ownership of the centre.
The R380 million acquisition process began when Burstone Group exercised its first right of offer over Investec’s property. This followed the management internalisation process that saw the transition of Investec Property Fund into the Burstone Group in 2023. Kaya FM
GUEST – Mpumi Zikalala - Kumba CEO
Kumba Iron Ore has reported a 24% fall in headline earnings per share as the company battles weaker commodity prices and logistics challenges.
Kumba, a subsidiary of the Anglo American group, on Tuesday released its results for the six months ended in June 2024 and reported headline earnings per share of R22.27, down from R30.04 in the first half of 2023.
Kumba also cut its interim dividend to R18.77 per share – down 17% from R22.60, although this still represents a payout ratio of 85% of headline earnings. Kaya FM
GUEST – Rapule Mahlangu, Head of Associations and Affinity Groups at Metropolitan
In the pursuit of our professional goals, many of us find ourselves navigating the delicate balance between ambition and financial responsibility. However, there's an often-overlooked factor that can significantly impact our career choices and overall job satisfaction – debt. In this article, we'll explore the ways in which debt can influence our professional lives and discuss strategies to break free from its shackles. Kaya FM
GUEST - Nic Ray, DataEQ's CEO
DataEQ has published its latest South African Retail Sentiment Index, revealing consumer perceptions of the country's leading grocery retailers. By analysing over 1.8 million public social media posts, the index offers valuable insights into consumer satisfaction and key performance metrics for Checkers, Pick n Pay, Shoprite, SPAR, and Woolworths. Kaya FM
GUEST – Nerosha Maseti, Lead Ombud for the Banking Division at the National Financial Ombud Scheme
Highlighting a few key statistics;
The formal cases reported, increased by 12% to 8 521and referrals (now called premature complaints) increased by 11% to 13 373.
The total record number of cases opened by the OBS totalled 21 641, an increase on the 2022 figures of 11%.
The number of cases closed by the OBS in 2023 increased by 6% from 2022, with a total of R25 735 594,17 being recovered for consumers in the year under review. Kaya FM
GUEST – Adri Messerschmidt, senior policy advisor at the Association for Savings and Investment South Africa (ASISA)
With the new two-pot retirement system taking effect in six weeks, members of retirement funds should ensure that they understand the implications of the system, according to Adri Messerschmidt, senior policy advisor at the Association for Savings and Investment South Africa (ASISA). Kaya FM
GUEST – Craig Miller, CEO of Anglo American Platinum
Highlights
Stringent safety measures implemented to prevent recurrence of two tragic fatalities and improve safety.
Refined PGM production up 5% in H1 2024 to 1.78 million ounces compared to the prior period, while metal-in-concentrate down 5% to 1.76 million ounces
Sales volumes increased 9%, due to draw down of inventory.
R12.3 billion EBITDA, down 8% on the prior period, despite a 24% decline in realised PGM dollar basket prices to $1,442, inflation and once-off restructuring costs, which were partially offset by cost reductions and higher sales.
On track to meet R10 billion capital expenditure and cost out target for 2024, with ~R4.7 billion of savings in H1 2024, of which ~R2.9 billion were operating costs and ~R1.8 billion stay in business capital.
Achieved an all-in sustaining cost (AISC) of $957 per 3E ounce, well ahead of the 2024 target of below ~$1,050; on track to sustain cash generation through a low PGM price cycle.
Restructuring progressing at pace, with statutory employee consultation complete and Mortimer Smelter on care and maintenance from end of April 2024
Strong net cash position of R14.5 billion, including the customer prepayment
Interim dividend of R2.6 billion, or R9.75 per share, equivalent to 40% payout of headline earnings in line with capital allocation framewo Kaya FM
GUEST - James Turp, Fixed Income Portfolio Manager and Head of Investment Strategy at Sanlam Investments.
The South African Reserve Bank (Sarb) kept its repurchase rate (repo rate) at 8.25% on Thursday, meaning the benchmark rate has been at this level for more than a year and remains at a 15-year high. Kaya FM
Rand stable as SARB keeps rate unchanged again. The JSE was slightly weaker as investors weighed prospects of interest rate cuts in the US and possible tensions between the US and China. Kaya FM
GUEST – Nzwa Shoniwa, managing executive of Sanlam Umbrella Solutions
Sanlam's 2024 Benchmark research has painted a grim picture of South Africa’s economy and the psychological impact it has had on savers.
The 43rd edition of the survey shows the country’s economic outlook remains bleak, with little hope of substantial improvement in the near-term, leaving savers pessimistic about South Africa’s future. More than 60% of respondents in the Benchmark 2024 survey said they did not believe South Africa’s challenges would be resolved in their lifetimes, with most citing corruption as the root cause of the nation’s woes.
The report also found that public sentiment towards South Africa’s political leaders was overwhelmingly negative, with the resultant lack of trust cascading down to financial institutions. Some 66% of those surveyed indicated they either felt vulnerable about their finances, or financially exploited. Kaya FM
GUEST – Edward Kieswetter, SARS commissioner
South African Revenue Service (Sars) commissioner, Edward Kieswetter, on Tuesday announced that more than 5 million taxpayers were auto-assessed by Sars, with almost 100% of them accepting the outcome without making any changes.
To date, refunds amounting of approximately R10 billion have been issued to 1.6 million auto-assessed taxpayers, averaging R5 900 per refund. Kaya FM
Guest - Enoch Godongwana – Finance Minister
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana reports that the National Treasury will continue to strive to improve the transparency of the budget, maintain high quality data management and analysis, and provide appropriate advice for the stability of the public sector wage bill and international development cooperation under the new government of national unity. Kaya FM
GUEST – Joe Hamman, Director of Novus Group
This and other significant changes that have taken place in the South African print media industry are shown in media monitoring company, Novus Group’s newly released 10 Years in Print Media report.It shows just how more and more people have shifted towards online news consumption. Kaya FM
GUEST – Carrie Norden - Senior tax specialist at Allan Gray
The income tax season is officially open. As a taxpayer, understanding what your filing obligations are is crucial to ensuring that you remain tax compliant. During this tax season, the South African Revenue Service is once again making use of the auto-assessment process and plan on imposing harsher penalties to taxpayers who file their tax return late.
Carrie Norden, senior tax specialist at Allan Gray, joins Kaya Biz to discuss everything you need to know about filing an income tax return this year. Kaya FM
GUEST – Andrew Bahlmann, Chief executive: Corporate & Advisory, Deal Leaders International
The market has been highly appreciative of the announcement by Bell, although there is no doubt that another company going private is a sad loss for the JSE and investors. Ellies Electrical brand will live on after SMD Technologies acquired it following the liquidation of the parent group, Ellies Holdings. Kaya FM
GUEST – André Daniels, Head of Tax Controversy & Dispute Resolution at Tax Consulting SA
The Supreme Court of Appeal has backed Commissioner Kieswetter and issued a stern warning to all South Africans to refrain from assisting others in evading their tax obligations. Where you are caught, SARS will go after your personally. This is now settled law in South Africa and directors or companies, tax advisors, lawyers, accountants, or even payroll professionals can find themselves on the hook. Kaya FM
GUEST – Vikeshni Vandayar, Executive: Governance and Corporate Services at the IoDSA
The King Codes, the Companies Act and the common law all set high standards for directors because of the huge influence directors have over the oversight and performance of an organisation, be it a private, public or non-profit entity. As the Zondo Commission’s report and a number of high-profile cases have shown, directors who do not do their jobs with due care and skill, or who are willfully dishonest or grossly negligent, can severely damage a company, causing huge negative impacts on all its stakeholders not to mention the negative impact the mala-administration of state-owned companies has on the South African economy.
South African Airways, Eskom, Steinhoff and Tongaat Hulett are just some of the big names scarred by directorial misconduct. Kaya FM
GUEST - Garth de Klerk, CEO of the Insurance Crime Bureau
For as long as there has been insurance, there has been insurance fraud too. In the intricate world of financial fraud detection, understanding the psychology behind fraudulent behavior is a pivotal aspect. Fraudsters employ a diverse array of tactics and techniques to deceive, manipulate, and exploit systems, institutions, and individuals for their illicit gains. Kaya FM
GUEST - Johnny Moloto, Area Head of Corporate & Regulatory Affairs for BAT Sub-Saharan Africa.
New Ipsos research released today reveals that 59% of sampled stores in South Africa are selling illicit tobacco products, with prices as low as R5 for a pack of 20 cigarettes, intensifying the ongoing price war among illicit manufacturers.
The study also revealed there are new manufacturers in the market, fuelling intense competition at the bottom end of the market.
“The entrance of new players raises some serious concerns about Government’s commitment to address illicit trade. Nothing justifies licensing new manufacturers in a sector already ravaged by high levels of non-compliance without conducting proper due diligence” said Johnny Moloto, Area Head of Corporate & Regulatory Affairs for BAT Sub-Saharan Africa. Kaya FM
GUEST – CEO of Wealth & Investments at FNB, Bheki Mkhize.
The 2024 FNB Retirement Insights Survey, released today, offers a glimpse into the current state and evolving dynamics of pre- and post-retirement planning in South Africa. In its second year, the in-depth research reveals persistent challenges around retirement in South Africa and highlights emerging opportunities that could significantly shape the future of retirement preparedness in the country. Kaya FM
GUEST – Zuko Godlimpi - Deputy Minister of The Department of Trade, Industry & Competition
The Department of Trade, Industry & Competition (DTIC) will prioritise sector-specific masterplan implementation, re-industrialisation and economic transformation during the seventh administration. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dr Rutendo Hwindingwi – Fouding Director at Tribe Africa Advisory
Moody's has downgraded Kenya's debt rating further into junk territory and warned the outlook was negative after a wave of protests led the government to abandon proposed tax hikes.
President William Ruto, facing the most serious crisis of his near two-year presidency, last month scrapped a finance bill aimed at replenishing government coffers and helping reduce its huge debt burden. Kaya FM
GUEST – Muvhango Lukhaimane – Pensions Fund Adjudicator
Funds pays benefit to fraud syndicate whilst real member was in prison Whilst the actual member was serving a prison sentence, a pension fund paid out a benefit of more than R800 000 to a syndicate that was involved in identity theft and unlawfully claiming benefits of retirement fund members. Now the Pension Funds Adjudicator Muvhango Lukhaimane has ordered the Municipal Gratuity Fund to pay the complainant the benefit due to him with interest. Kaya FM
GUEST - Manie Van Schalkwyk, CEO of the Southern African Fraud Prevention Service
As we approach the end of August, millions of South Africans will log onto the SARS eFiling website or visit their closest branch to complete their tax returns. "While this is a very busy time for the South African Revenue Service (SARS), it is also a very busy time for scammers," says Manie van Schalkwyk, the CEO of the Southern African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS). "Over the past five years, the SAFPS has noticed a growing trend of tax scams which are targeting individuals who are desperate for cash." Kaya FM
GUEST - Jan Schoeman: CEO of Retail Motor Industry Organization (RMI)
T
he process of writing off cars deemed uneconomical to repair happens all the time in the South African automotive industry. Motor body, SAMBRA has raised concerns about the vehicles that are routinely written-off and sold within a salvage contract to auction yards.
Sambra says in many cases these vehicles are bought by dubious repairers and sold back into the system for a profit via digital sales platforms or used-car traders. Kaya FM
GUEST – Prudence Moilwa – Head of complaints and investigations at the National Consumer Commission.
The National Consumer Tribunal has fined two car dealers and ordered one of them to repay a consumer R1 million after hearing the cases brought by the National Consumer Commission. Secondhand cars are often a problem for consumers and this goes to show that it is not a battle you have to wage by yourself.
The consumers complained at the National Consumer Commission (NCC) about used cars they bought from Wingfield Motors and Sandton Repo Cars. After the NCC investigated their complaints and found that the dealers contravened the Consumer Protection Act (CPA) in both cases, the matters were referred to the National Consumer Tribunal (NCT). Kaya FM
GUEST - Kwanda Vabaza – Adjudicator Manager of the Credit Division at the National Financial Ombud
The Prescription Act stipulates the period after which a consumer’s obligation to pay a monetary debt to a creditor will be extinguished and the instances in which this period will be delayed or interrupted. Is it legal for creditors to collect a prescribed debt? Kwanda said the answer to this question depends on whether the debt falls within the ambit of the NCA. In other words, whether the debt relates to a credit agreement and falls within the definition of a credit agreement in the NCA. Kaya FM
GUEST – Andrea Ellens, Retail Industry Specialist at Trade Intelligence.
As shopper behaviours evolve, brands and retailers are working hard to catch up, using tools to connect with a new generation of increasingly demanding and informed shoppers. South African shoppers are not what they used to be. They’re tougher, savvier, and more in tune with what they are looking for.
A combination of COVID and the ensuing supply chain crunch loosened the bonds of loyalty between shoppers and the retail and product brands they favoured. Now, in a difficult economic environment, this bond has been further weakened as shoppers switch brands and retailers based on where value may be found – either in brick-and-mortar retail or in the burgeoning online space. Kaya FM
GUEST - Vusimuzi Mavuso - Commissioner at Public Service Commission
Out of 42 national departments, only eleven (11) departments fully complied with legislation of timeous payments. These 11 national departments did not have outstanding or unpaid invoices for the period under review. Departments are encouraged to maintain this performance and pay all legitimate invoices from suppliers timeously or within 30 days as required by the Public Finance Management Act and its related prescripts. The below table 2 outlines National Departments that paid all their invoices within 30 days. Kaya FM
GUEST - Andrew Fulton, Director at Eighty20.
There are approximately 12 million registered motor vehicles in South Africa. But when excluding light and heavy delivery trucks, taxis and motor-cycles, fewer than one in five adults have a personal vehicle. There are roughly 8 million motor cars and station wagons, as measured by eNaTIS, but not all are owned by private individuals.
According to NAAMSA, new passenger vehicle sales have been declining, with 2023 showing 347 695 units sold, which is a decrease of 4.4% compared to 2022 which had 363 692 units sold. A difference of nearly 16,000 cars. The trend has continued into 2024, with year-to-date new sales by April down by 5.1% year-on-year. Eighty20, South Africa’s leading consumer insights and data science firm, provides interesting insights into the decline in passenger vehicle sales. Kaya FM
GUEST - David Shapiro, chief investment strategist at Sasfin Wealth
JSE-listed Bidvest will dispose of two of its entities – Bidvest Bank and FinGlobal, according to a statement on Sens on Wednesday. This follows the group’s announcement earlier this year that it intends to dispose of Bidvest Life. The group expects the transaction to be concluded by the end of 2024. Bidvest’s operations include finance, freight management, automotive, and cleaning services. Kaya FM
GUEST - Pogiso Dibakoane - Motoring Expert and Technician
Automotive parts retailer and wholesaler AutoZone has voluntarily entered business rescue as it is in financial distress. In this conversation we interrogate where SA consumers prefer to buy their parts and why? Kaya FM
GUEST – Mark Cotton, Head of B2B eCommerce at the Shoprite Group.
Shoprite has ventured into South Africa’s bustling e-commerce sector by introducing online shopping and bulk delivery service for spaza shops and small businesses. Customers buying in bulk can now purchase goods online from its Cash & Carry stores, with free delivery within a 50km radius. The company said that this service will be of particular benefit to spaza shops and smaller retail businesses. Kaya FM
GUEST – Malesela Letwaba, Associate at Employment Law practice at CDH.
Remuneration levels can be a murky and complex area. Especially when employees are performing the same or similar job function. In a sc Scenario like this - where employees are performing equal work but their pay is different – can an employer be held liable for unfair discrimination in terms of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 (EEA)? Kaya FM
GUEST - Ghita Erling, CEO: Payments Association of South Africa.
South African banks will implement a big electronic funds transfer (EFT) payment change in September 2024, impacting direct payments and debit orders. The change followed a decision by the Common Monetary Area (CMA) regulators to discontinue processing EFT payments and collections within the CMA. Kaya FM
GUEST – Allon Raiz - Raizcorp CEO.
Small business corporations are defined as entities with an annual turnover of less than R20 million in South Africa. These businesses are crucial to the South African economy as they contribute to job creation, economic growth, and poverty alleviation. However, despite their importance, small business corporations face numerous challenges that hinder their growth and sustainability.
In this conversation, we explore some of the challenges faced by small business corporations in South Africa and potential solutions to overcome them. Kaya FM
GUEST – Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams - Minister of Small Business Development.
Small Business Development minister, Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams has expressed that the department seeks to continue with the reform agenda that the 6th government administration started under the new Government of National Unity (GNU). Kaya FM
GUEST – Andrew Chirwa – Numsa President.
Numsa strike at Ford SA over the payment of bonuses is set to continue after the labour court reserved judgment on an application by the car manufacturer to interdict the industrial action, which began on Thursday. Kaya FM
GUEST – Angie Poole, Manager Estates, Business Restructuring at BDO South Africa
Oh, how times have changed. Many couples today choose to live together rather than get married, embracing cohabitation as a legitimate form of partnership. This shift reflects evolving societal values and a preference for flexibility over formal commitment. But, while many South Africans believe that by living together for a period of time, you become common law husband and wife, the law doesn’t currently recognise cohabitation as a formal legal relationship. This means that cohabiting partners do not enjoy the same rights and protections as married couples, often leading to complex legal and financial complications. Kaya FM
GUEST – Elize Kruger, Independent Economist.
Take-home pay recovered somewhat in May, but pensions treading water. The BankservAfrica Take-home Pay Index (BTPI), tracking the average nominal take-home pay among about 4 million salary earners in South Africa, recovered somewhat in May 2024 to reach R15 888, a notable 10.0% up on a year-ago but slightly below February and March levels. In real terms, take-home pay also tracked slightly higher at R14 015 in May 2024, 4.5% up on year-ago levels. It is becoming increasingly clear that 2024 could be a better year for salaries than 2023. With no load shedding in the past three months, the business environment has improved meaningfully compared to the previous year, positively influencing companies’ ability to pay better salary increases in 2024. Kaya FM
GUEST - Roy Thomas, Operations and Logistics Director at Hume International
Latest import statistics show that South Africans are increasingly buying down on chicken products to stretch their pennies, as soaring costs of living place severe pressure on household budgets. According to data for the first quarter of 2024 compiled by food distributer Hume International, total import volumes of whole birds had nearly tripled compared to the same period in 2023, rising 187.47% year-on-year.
Likewise, total import volumes of chicken wings and drumsticks – products typically used by local manufacturers to supply fast-food chains – had leapt 94.08% and 108.74% year-on-year, effectively doubling. Meanwhile, demand for chicken livers had more than doubled by the end of March, rising 118.25% year-on-year. Simultaneously, demand for budget-friendly chicken carcasses had risen 85.16% year-on-year, and other offal cuts by 25.64% Kaya FM
GUEST – Dondo Mogajane, Chairman of the Government Employees Pension Fund
So much has changed over the past few weeks that it is difficult to determine with certainty what the major variables of the next few years will be. In this conversation we interogate if the Government of National Unity (GNU) Cabinet is, on the whole, good for business and investor confidence. Kaya FM
GUEST - Tony Healy – Employer Labour Consultant
Where an employer and employee had entered into a contract of employment that contains any provision regarding the compulsory payment of bonuses, an employer would need to adhere to the terms of such contract. If an employer does not pay the bonus, it may be seen as a unilateral change to the provisions of the employment contract, in which case the employee may take legal action against the employer for breach of contract. We unpack this further with Employer Labour Consultant, Tony Healy. Kaya FM
GUEST – Robert Murray - BetterBond Regional Manager of Gauteng North
First-time buyers drive SA’s township property boom First-time buyers looking for affordable housing options are drawn to South Africa’s traditional township property markets where most of the transactions taking place are around the R750 000 price point, says BetterBond. “Less than 14% of BetterBond's registered bonds in township areas between January and May this year were above R1 million, and only one was more than R2 million.
In this price band, Shoshunguve in Pretoria, Protea Glen and Protea North in Soweto and Ivory Park in Thembisa offer considerable value for money.” To afford a bond of R750 000, a buyer needs a gross household income of around R27 000, well within BetterBond’s first-time buyer average income of R43 800. Kaya FM
GUEST - Nomi Bodlani, head of Direct and Private Clients at Allan Gray
Achieving long-term investment success is simple but not easy. It demands unwavering determination to stick to your chosen investment strategy and stay committed, even during periods of uncertainty. Investing for real, inflation-beating returns should be top of mind for all long-term investors, throughout your investing journey. Kaya FM
GUEST - Miyelani Holeni Group Chief Advisor at Ntiyiso Consulting Group
Over the past decade, electricity rates have risen significantly nationally. Electricity, unlike other expenses, is one that homeowners have little flexibility to control. Eskom has increased the price of electricity by 446% since load-shedding began in 2008, driving up inflation and significantly increasing the cost of doing business in the country. Kaya FM
GUEST – Frank Hinda - City Power’s General Manager for Tariffs
In addition to the 12.7% tariff increase, residents of the City of Johannesburg who use prepaid meters will face a recurring monthly fee of R200 for network and service charges. The tariff hike and service fee came into effect on July 1, applying to middle and high-income earners. Indigent customers, however, will be exempted and have been allocated a slightly lower tariff increase. The new charges were announced last week by City Power after the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) approved its tariff increase application. Kaya FM
GUEST – Professor Parmi Natesan, CEO of the Institute of Directors in South Africa (IoDSA)
President Ramaphosa’s announcement of the multiparty cabinet of the Government of National Unity (GNU) has been broadly welcomed as a move towards a more inclusive government that could make progress in addressing the multiple challenges the country faces. There’s no denying that this is an historic moment, says Professor Parmi Natesan, CEO of the Institute of Directors in South Africa (IoDSA), but the right choices need to be made. Kaya FM
GUEST – Prof Renata Schoeman - Head of Healthcare Leadership at Stellenbosch Business School
According to the latest Gallup report, 36% of the South African workforce experience excessive daily stress and more than 71% are either disengaged or actively disengaged at work – some of the alarming signs of burnout.
This is not surprising considering that according to the Mental State of the World Report, South Africa, with a mental health quotient of 50, ranks 69 out of 71 countries and has the greatest percentage of distressed or struggling respondents at 35%. Kaya FM
GUEST – McIntosh Polela – Road Accident Fund spokesperson
Yesterday was the last day of Youth Month. As we navigate the remainder of the year, the Road Accident Fund (RAF) hereby reminds young people that road safety rules should be adhered to throughout the year. Claims by young people accounted for a staggering 44% of those lodged from 2020 to 2022. This figure is a startling reminder that the youth will have to change their behaviour when utilising the roads.
During the same period, the RAF paid a total of R43.13 billion for injury benefits to young accident survivors between the ages of 15 and 34. That is an average of R14.37 billion per year. Additionally, a total of R2.86 billion was paid over the same period for death related benefits, at an average of R956 million per year. The youth, often characterised by high levels of mobility and risk-taking behaviour, are unfortunately overly represented in road accident statistics. The RAF observed that the average number of youth related claims registered per year across the three-year period was 21,475. The average amount per youth related claim was R2,568,595 over the same period. Furthermore, 63% of claims registered over this period were for males, 36% were for females, and 1% unknown. Kaya FM
GUEST - Miles Kubheka - Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator, Clothes to Good
Community upliftment is key to H&M South Africa's sustainability strategy, and the 'Suitably Dressed' initiative enables the fashion retailer to tackle one of the country's most pressing socio-economic challenges: unemployment. We get an update on how this youth empowerment campaign has performed 6 months later. Kaya FM
GUEST – Gerhard Van Deventer, the Divisional Executive of Enforcement at the Financial
Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA)
The Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) ramped up its war on financial scammers over the past year, as shown by the nearly 10-fold increase in administrative penalties in the year to March 2024. Total penalties imposed over the year tallied R943 million on 31 people, up from a little over R100 million the prior year, according to the FSCA’s Regulatory Actions Report 2024 released on Friday. Kaya FM
GUEST – Andiswa Nondudule - Economist at ABSA
The seasonally adjusted Absa Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) increased by 1.9 points to reach 45.7 points in June 2024, compared to 43.8 in May 2024. The improvement is welcomed, but it was the second consecutive month that the PMI remained below the 50-point mark. Following a very strong start to the second quarter, which was also reflected in solid growth in official manufacturing production data, May and June have been poor. Indeed, the business activity index average is barely higher in Q2 than in Q1. Despite the stable electricity supply through Q2, insufficient demand seems to have weighed heavily on the sector’s performance. Kaya FM
GUEST – Andrea du Plessis – Retail insights lead at Trade Intelligence
As shoppers become increasingly time-pressured, convenience is a growing necessity, and South Africa’s forecourt stores have positioned themselves effectively to meet this need. Understanding the dynamics of this channel has thus become fundamental for FMCG suppliers and manufacturers wishing to capitalise on this growing sector. Kaya FM
GUEST – Sifiso Skenjana - Economist and the managing director of ESG Analytics.
South Africa’s rand extended a post-election rally after President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a new cabinet that he said would prioritize rapid and sustainable growth. The currency led gains among emerging-market peers on Monday, advancing 1.1% to 17.98 per dollar as of 9 a.m. in Johannesburg. The yield on benchmark bonds fell 14 basis points to 11.24%, heading toward April 2023 lows. Kaya FM
Guest - Andra Nel, KFC Marketing Manager Brand and Purpose
Johannesburg, 25 June 2024 – KFC’s Add Hope programme, which recently passed the R1bn mark in its effort to fight malnutrition and hunger, has left an indelible mark on the lives of millions and become a powerful force for good. Kaya FM
GUEST - Dylan Govendor, Head of Supply Chain at Investec for Business
With it now taking up to 10 weeks to import goods from Asia to South Africa, time is running out for importers ahead of Black Friday and Christmas. Importers are urged to prioritise planning and shipping now, moving cargo earlier than normal, ahead of peak sales for the November and December period to ensure supply chain continuity and adequate stock holdings. Kaya FM
GUEST – Sam Mokorosi - Head of origination and deals at the JSE
The JSE is a major provider of financial information. For companies to be listed on the Exchange there is certain requirements that need to be met. In this conversation we unpack the steps companies have to go through to be allowed to list on the JSE. Kaya FM
GUEST – Peter Nkhuna - Senior adjudicator on non-life at the National Financial Ombud Scheme
OSTI ended the 2023 financial year registering 5,6% more new complaints and finalising 1,2% more complaints than in 2022. It ended the year with 12 188 registered complaints, compared to 11 542 in the previous year, and closed 10 534 complaints compared to 10 411 in 2022. Over the last two years, OSTI experienced an increase of around 24% in new registered complaints whilst maintaining the same adjudicative staff complement.
The main reason for keeping the staff complement the same was the risk of potential job redundancies going into the amalgamated scheme and the risk that complaint volumes may again decline as had happened in 2021. Kaya FM
GUEST - Koketso Mano, FNB Senior Economist
Employment in the formal non-agricultural sectors of the economy, as reflected in the Quarterly Employment Survey, contracted by over 60 000 jobs or -0.6% q/q in 1Q24. Many of the jobs shed were in trade and it was more than just post-festive layoffs of part-time workers. Compared to 1Q23, 70 000 jobs (0.6%) have been lost but over 400 000 jobs have been added since 1Q19. The latest estimates reflect 10.7 million workers in the formal economy.
Job losses were recorded in trade (-57 000 or -2.4% q/q), followed by community services (-18 000 or –0.6%), business services (-4 000 or -0.1%), and mining (-3 000 or -0.5%). Meanwhile, employment gains were recorded in manufacturing (13 000 or 1.0%), followed by transport (2 000 or 0.5%).
Full-time jobs declined by 29 000 q/q and 16 000 or 0.2% y/y. Most of the jobs lost in trade and community services and those added in manufacturing were full-time jobs. Part-time employment decreased by 38 000 or 3.1% q/q and 58 000 have been lost compared to 1Q23 (-4.7%). There were approximately 1.2 million part-time workers and 9.5 million full-time jobs in 1Q24. Kaya FM
GUEST – Siphelele Sokhela, Brand Manager at 1Life Insurance.
1Life Insurance launched the 2024 generational wealth youth survey, which confirms that youth in South Africa are far from achieving financial freedom and building wealth - placing them at a tremendous disadvantage.
Youth unemployment in South Africa currently sits at, 45,5% according to Stats SA, and the study by 1Life revealed that of those who do have a source of income, more than 50% do not know how to build a financially stable future. Furthermore, the study revealed that less than 30% of South African youth have a solid monthly budget in place. Kaya FM
GUEST – Mandla N - founder of Black Brain Pictures
South Africans kissing TV goodbye The Market Research Foundation has released its MAPS data overview for the period from January 2021 to December 2023, revealing a marked decline in TV viewership in South Africa.
At the same time, South African viewership of streaming services has increased, although not as steeply as the decline in TV viewership. The Market Research Foundation’s MAPS data comes from annual surveys of a sample of the South African population. Kaya FM
GUEST – Belinda Clur, managing director of Clur International
Trading density for prime retail space in South Africa has dropped, even if the Western Cape has been relatively unscathed. According to the Clur Shopping Centre Index, trading density levels dropped further in Q1 2024, even if the rate of contraction was more muted than the final half of 2023.
The industry-standard index interprets performance at over 100 centres and 140 merchandising categories across South Africa and Nambia. “The Q1 2024 national Clur Index for all centres closed at 4.4% y/y growth. This represents a contraction of 0.6% relative to 2023’s 5% y/y growth,” said Belinda Clur, MD of Clur International.
The national index has underperformed the inflation rate since November 2023. Overall, super-regional centres—100,000+ sqm plus—showed the highest trading density for Q1 2024 at R49,066/sqm, followed by community and smaller centres—those below 25,000 sqm—at R42,386/sqm. Kaya FM
GUEST – Victor Kgomoeswana - Africa expert
Kenyans are protesting over a new finance bill that introduces unpopular tax proposals that have drawn a lot of anger across the nation. The controversial bill, which has provisions that are seen as imposing extra burdens on ordinary citizens and businesses, has sparked a huge outcry from a public already weighed down by the high cost of living. Kaya FM
GUEST - Andrew Robinson, Executive Director at WeWork South Africa
WeWork Global has completed the restructuring of its wholly owned portfolio, emerging from Chapter 11 in the US. WeWork South Africa, 100% independently owned, operates separately from WeWork in the US and Canada and was not affected by the Chapter 11 process that has been underway in the US over the past nine months. Kaya FM
GUEST – Kinesh Maistry - Director Auto Solutions at TransUnion South Africa
The South African automotive sector continues to grapple with significant macroeconomic challenges. Persistently high interest rates and negative GDP growth have eroded both consumer and business confidence, leading many to defer long-term financial commitments, including vehicle purchases. Kaya FM
GUEST – Waldo Marcus, Industry Principal at TPN Credit Bureau
Residential rental vacancies are at their lowest level since 2016 as demand for rental property outstrips supply amidst declining home ownership, according to TPN Credit Bureau’s latest Vacancy Survey Report for the first quarter of 2024. A greater number of households are renting as high interest rates continue to make ownership unattainable for many people, says Waldo Marcus, Industry Principal at TPN Credit Bureau, an MRI Software company. He expects that the trend towards renting as opposed to homeownership will remain in place while interest rates remain high. Kaya FM
GUEST – Nerine Visser, Strategist and Financial Adviser at ETFSA
Amid the economic uncertainty, it's time to bolster your portfolio. It's time to explore the power of recession-proof ETFs, designed specifically to weather economic downturns and turbulent markets. In this conversation we explore reasons why you should consider adding ETFs to your investment portfolio. Kaya FM
GUEST – Mudiwa Gavaza - business writer for the Business Day and Financial Mail
South African online retailer Takealot registered another massive trading loss of R253 million for the year ending March 2024—though this has been narrowed from the R400 million loss recorded last year. Kaya FM
Guest - Thezi Mabuza - National Consumer Commission’s Deputy Commissioner
The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has initiated compliance inspections to remove unsafe and expired goods (those past their shelf-life) from store shelves. This effort aims to maintain consumer confidence in the food and foodstuffs they purchase.
This follows the discovery of widespread non-compliance by some shops, including the sale of expired goods at discount prices. Kaya FM
GUEST – Claire Heckrath, MD, infoQuest.
The South African gambling landscape is multifaceted with a blend of traditional and more innovative gambling platforms being used by those wanting to take a chance at obtaining a financial windfall. To understand more about the dynamics of gambling, infoQuest, a South African online research company recently conducted a survey amongst 300 gamblers. The research was conducted during March 2024. Kaya FM
GUEST – SweepSouth Founder & Former CEO Aisha Pandor
SweepSouth, South Africa’s foremost home services platform, celebrates its 10th anniversary this month. This milestone marks a decade of innovation, growth, and significant contributions to the domestic services industry in South Africa. Kaya FM
GUEST - Thabani Ndwandwe, Chief Risk Officer Standard Bank South Africa
A third of Standard Bank’s customers looking to buy a car have opted to include the maximum balloon payment in the past 12 months as South Africans continue to struggle with affordability as a result of high interest rates. We interrogate what this means for the affordability of South African consumers. Kaya FM
GUEST – Musa Mbhele - eThekwini Municipality City Manager
In a drive aimed at rebuilding confidence and promoting trade and investment, eThekwini Municipality City Manager Musa Mbhele will begin a series of engagements with investors and captains on industry based in the United States of America (USA).
The investor engagements and destination promotion activations are set to get underway from 19 to 26 June 2024 in New York City and Los Angeles respectively. Kaya FM
Guest - Styli Charalambous, CEO of the Daily Maverick
The South African media industry has experienced big changes over the past 12 months. The global economic crisis and the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) have contributed to changing the way people consume news and information. Kaya FM
GUEST – Derrick Bowles - Principal Analyst at the Competition Commission
Some points of accord with the industry – the need to ringfence income generated by fresh produce markets and to invest in its ailing infrastructure – and some points sure to ruffle feathers in the Competition Commission's provisional report on its wide-ranging inquiry into the fresh produce value chain, from the price of seeds and water rights to retail floor space.
The domestic fresh produce market is estimated at over R53 billion (2.7 billion euros) annually, of that about R21 billion (1.08 billion euros) is sold through the national wholesale markets and R32 billion (1.6 billion euros) through formal retail.
The Commission has previously investigated allegations of price fixing by several market agencies, but since the matter is currently before the Competition Tribunal, it was left out of this inquiry. Practices by market agents such as stock reservation and reserve buying and credit sales could distort price discovery, it notes. Kaya FM
GUEST - Nerosha Maseti, Lead Ombud for the Banking Division at the National Financial Ombud Scheme
South African consumers across the board find themselves increasingly under pressure due to the high cost of living and other factors outside their control, such as the increasing food and petrol prices, with most of their budget going towards essentials.
Car repossession is a stressful process that nobody wants to go through. However, if you find yourself in this situation, it’s essential to understand your rights and to know how to respond to a repossession notice. Kaya FM
GUEST – Nkazi Sokhulu - iWyze CEO
Be mindful of your insurance policy status to remain in good standing with your insurer. Insurance helps when life throws surprises at you,but managing it can be tricky. One important aspect is making sure that your policy is ‘in good standing’ with the insurance company. This conversation breaks down what that means, how to keep it that way, and what can happen if it’s not. Kaya FM
GUEST – Jaco van Jaarsveldt, Experian’s Head of Commercial Strategy and Innovation
As South Africa commemorates Youth Day, the spotlight falls on the financial health of young consumers and their ability to leverage credit as a tool for empowerment. Experian's Consumer Default Index (CDIx) for Q1 2024 reveals a complex picture for young South Africans, highlighting the need for both increased access to responsible credit and enhanced financial literacy.
The Index measures the rolling default behaviour of South African consumers with Home Loan, Vehicle Loan, Personal Loan, Credit Card, and Retail Loan accounts. The CDI for the youngest consumer group – the Yearning Youth - as measured by Experian’s Financial Affluence Segmentation* (FAS), dropped significantly from 21.9 in March 2023 to 16.8 in March 2024. However, this positive trend doesn't necessarily mean their finances have drastically improved. It's rather a case of them finding it harder to access new loans than before the pandemic, as the supply of credit in this category has not returned to pre-pandemic levels. Kaya FM
GUEST - Andre Cilliers, director and currency strategist at TreasuryONE
The South African rand hit its strongest level in almost a year, trading at R18 to the dollar on Wednesday (19 June), with the country is moving towards an official Government of National Unity and only a few more steps remain.
The first big hurdle has already been cleared, with the ANC-DA-IFP-led bloc electing agreed-upon leaders for the country, including Speaker, Deputy Speaker and President at parliament’s first sitting last week. This was then followed by appointments at the National Council of Provinces and with premiers at the provincial level. Kaya FM
GUEST - Dr Gerald Maarman, a biomedical scientist and leading rooibos researcher
A national survey, released during Men’s Health Month, unveils fascinating insights into the beverage preferences of South African men. Conducted among more than 700 respondents, the survey captures the nuances of beverage choices among men in different settings,
professions and age groups, providing valuable data for understanding men’s beverage preference, drinking habits and views on healthier lifestyles.
The survey found that 46% of men start their day with a cup of coffee, while 30% opt for rooibos as their preferred sunrise sip. Kaya FM
GUEST – Garry Marshall – Chairperson of South African Express Parcel Association.
The recent announcement by SARS to discontinue the small parcel exemption on imported clothing products is a severe blow to consumers. The exemption, also known as a “de minimis” is a lifeline for cash-strapped consumers allowing them to purchase clothing and
other items from e-commerce platforms such as Shein and Temu at factory cost. Kaya FM
GUEST – Hayley Ivins-Downes, Managing Executive Real Estate Cluster at Lightstone
South Africans under the age of 35 years old are buying fewer houses than before – but they are paying more for them. Data from Lightstone, a provider of comprehensive data, analytics and systems on property, automotive and business assets, shows that the decline
in volumes is proportionately sharper than the overall fall in property purchases over the last six years. Hayley Ivins-Downes, Managing Executive Real Estate Cluster, said purchases by those between 26-35 fell 25% from 92 558 in 2018 to 69 577 in 2023, the
lowest figure recorded in the six-year period, while total overall transfers registered fell 13% from 294 859 in 2018 to 255 726 in 2023. Kaya FM
GUEST – Siphesihle Zwane, portfolio manager at Allan Gray
With 2024 being an election year for almost half the world’s population, many investors are worried about what the future holds and how it will affect their wealth. But the times we live in will always be uncertain and as long-term investors, it is important
to remain focused on the things we can control, rather than the variables that are out of our control.
Siphesihle Zwane, portfolio manager at Allan Gray, joins Kaya Biz to discuss the current environment, the interplay between skill and luck in investing, and how long-term investors can navigate highly uncertain scenarios. Kaya FM
GUEST - Paul Gerard, MD of Flanagan & Gerard.
Flanagan & Gerard has recently been appointed as the strategic Asset Managers for Fourways Mall by the Fourways Mall co-owners, accompanied by the oversight of Property Management by the Moolman Group. We chat to Paul Gerard, MD of Flanagan & Gerard on their
plans to revitalize the mall. Kaya FM
GUEST - Serame Taukobong – Telkom Group CEO
KEY HIGHLIGHTS:
- Group EBITDA up 5.2% to R10.0 billion
- Group revenue up 1.6% to R43.2 billion
- Free Cash Flow of R424 million, up 115.6%
- Headline earnings per share (HEPS) increased 201.3% to 376.0 cents
- Basic earnings per share (BEPS) increased 442.8% to 385.5 cents
- 20.4 million mobile subscribers Telkom SA SOC Limited today published improved financial results for the year ended 31 Kaya FM
GUEST – Pat Mahlangu – Founder of PatonBrands & Lerato Agency
With unemployment remaining stubbornly high, young South Africans in particular have limited prospects of getting jobs, and their only hope of becoming economically active is to start their own businesses. Pat unpacks the toolkit youth entrepreneurs should have to remain in business. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dr Martyn Davies – Emerging Markets expert
While it is clear that the ANC, with 40% of the national vote, will dominate the next government, it does not necessarily follow that economic policy continuity is guaranteed — something that was the consensus expectation before the election. Kaya FM
GUEST - Ashley Saffy, Head of Spend and Customer Value Management at FNB Card
The youth market, comprising 35% of the population, has considerable cash-driven purchasing power. In South Africa, young people are estimated to have around R120-billion of their own disposable income, and not simply because of their spending that’s a result of their influence on parents and caregivers.
Combined, this group represents significant spending power and they will be an even more powerful force in the future as an impressive number of them (63%) are already actively saving and investing, while 10% of young adults have sought entrepreneurial ways to earn an income. Kaya FM
GUEST - Deven Moodley, Executive Head for Pick n Pay's value-added services, financial services, and mobile division
A year after Pick n Pay pioneered Bitcoin payments at tills across South Africa, the retail giant is doing R1-million a month in sales from shoppers buying groceries, data, airtime, and paying their municipal bills. Four times more customers per month are using
Crypto QR codes at nearly 700 Pick n Pays, mostly in the Western Cape followed by Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. Half of all transactions are R500 and under, and the transaction amount is capped at R10 000.
Crypto payments are taking off, and Pick n Pay remains the first and only large retail store to accept cryptocurrency. “We started from a low base of around R25 000 per month, and it has grown exponentially every month over the past year,” said Deven Moodley,
Executive Head for Pick n Pay's value-added services, financial services, and mobile division. The payment method is also accepted at PnP Express and Pick n Pay Clothing. Kaya FM
GUEST: Craig Pitchers, CEO of The Courier Guy.
Competition amongst local couriers has increased dramatically with the emergence of e-commerce giants, like Amazon, Temu and Shein into the South African market impacting both the micro and macro environments and leading to a greater demand and delivery volume.
South Africa’s e-commerce market is expected to reach US$16.3 billion by 2030, with an annual growth rate of 15%, according to a RationalStat report. Kaya FM
GUEST - Ann Bernstein - Executive director at the Centre for Development and Enterprise.
The Centre for Development and Enterprise (CDE) today called on political decision-makers who believe in the constitution, the rule of law and deepening economic reform to put the country ahead of narrow interests.
South Africa’s political leaders are currently locked in multi-sided negotiations about who will form the next government. While CDE shares South Africans’ hopes and anxieties about this, we are convinced that the success of any new government will depend on its policies, not just on who is in power. Kaya FM
GUEST - Thabo Hollo – Old Mutual Education Manager
As South Africa eagerly anticipates the launch of the Two-Pot Retirement System on 1 September 2024, there's a pressing need to dispel the myths surrounding the new approach to retirement planning. Only 6% of the country's population is on track to retire comfortably,
according to the sixth edition of the 10X Investments Retirement Reality Report 2023.
Thabo Hollo – Old Mutual Education Manager is on a mission to debunk common myths and empower retirement fund members with the knowledge needed to navigate this new system confidently. Dispelling any potential panic, Hollo sheds light on the finer details,
clarifying misconceptions and offering a clear understanding of how the Two-Pot System will function. Kaya FM
GUEST – Rob Rose - Multi-award-winning investigative journalist and former editor of the Financial mail.
While the newspaper industry has always been cyclical, in recent years newspaper circulation has dropped. Why is there a decline in circulation though? Are people showing less interest in their surroundings and world events? Kaya FM
GUEST - Simon Brown – Founder of JustOneLap
Mr Price has seen its revenue increase despite load shedding costing it an estimated R200 million. The group’s results for the financial year ended 30 March 2024 showed that revenue increased by 15.5% to R37.9 billion.
This includes the group acquiring Studio 88 Group (S88), effective 4 October 2022 (not in the base in H1 FY2024), excluding which revenue grew 5.8% to R30.3 billion. With the group growing its annual market share by 30bps, its operating profit exceeded R5 billion
for the first time. Kaya FM
GUEST – Jan Vermuelen, mybroadband editor
With an impressive 60% of the US smartphone market, Apple is undeniably big, but not a clear monopoly. Yet, years of innovation by Apple have effectively given the company its own exclusive tech ecosystem. Now, the US Department of Justice (DOJ) has alleged
this ecosystem is harming competition and innovation through Apple’s unique market power. Kaya FM
GUEST: Wandile Sihlobo is the Chief Economist of the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz)
With votes counted and the ANC’s support having fallen sharply to only 40%, some form of coalition government is likely to govern SA. The nature of such an arrangement is likely to emerge in coming days and weeks. As with any coalition negotiations, trade-offs
are likely to be made involving several government functions and policies. The question that should be addressed in the agriculture sector is: what are the implications for potential changes in government functions on agriculture and land reform policy? Regardless
of the formation of the coalition the ANC settles with, the policies of the agriculture, land reform and rural development department should be maintained Kaya FM
GUEST – Angelo Swartz – SPAR Group CEO
SPAR’s latest financial results for the six months ended 31 March 2024 came in below expectations. SPAR’s total turnover, including Southern Africa, Ireland, South West England and Switzerland, increased by 7.9% to R77.2 billion. However, profits were flat,
with headline earnings declining 7.6% for the period. Kaya FM
GUEST – Thebe Ikalafeng - Brand Africa founder and chairman.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
68% of South Africans believe in Africa, but only 33% are loyal to South African brands.
Nike retains rankings as the no. 1 most admired brand overall in South Africa.
9 years old Bathu Shoes is the no. 1 most admired South African brand.
FNB is the most admired financial services South African brand. · MTN is the most admired Pan-African South African brand.
DStv is the most admired media brand in South Africa.
Woolworths, Nike and WHO are the most admired brands for doing good for society, people and the environment in South Africa.
Maxhosa is the most admired African brand in South Africa
Kruger National Park, Soweto and Cape Town among the 30 brands, places, campaigns, events and people who have shaped South Africa’s brand in past 30 years Kaya FM
GUEST - Mikel Mabasa - CEO of the National Association Automobile Manufacturers South Africa (Naamsa)
Illegal second-hand vehicles are becoming a significant challenge locally, with many South African unknowingly buying these cars.
Despite efforts to control the imports, some 50 000 new imports are entering the local market each year. Research from the International Transport Forum (ITF) found many of these cars have been found to be "bottom of the barrel" and unroadworthy, adding to
air pollution and car accidents. CEO of the National Association Automobile Manufacturers South Africa (Naamsa) Mikel Mabasa said the South African automotive industry has been battling huge amounts of car dumping, particularly grey or illegal second-hand
imports arriving at the Durban Port each year. According to Mabasa, these imports make up 7.5% of the nation's 12.5 million car fleet. Kaya FM
GUEST - Calvo Mawela, MultiChoice Group CEO.
Media group Multichoice’s losses have doubled in the last year as the group continues to bleed customers.
In its financial results for 31 March 2024, the group said that it delivered “positive organic revenue growth” of 3% despite the severity of the macro and consumer headwinds impacting the business.
The group also outperformed its cost optimization, delivering R1.9 billion in cost savings against an initial target of R0.8 billion. Kaya FM
GUEST – Roelof Botha, Economist
Afrimat, the JSE-listed mid-tier mining and materials company providing construction materials, industrial minerals, bulk commodities, and future materials and metals, has released the findings of its Afrimat Construction Index (ACI) for the first quarter of
2024. The ACI is a composite index of the activity level within the building and construction sectors and is compiled by economist Dr Roelof Botha on behalf of Afrimat. Kaya FM
GUEST - Chris Lazarus - Chief Officer for Sales, Distribution & Regions at Cell C
Reports came in last night that Cell C is looking to sell 44 out of 47 retail stores that it currently owns. This is in the wake of intense competition in the market with many mobile operators looking to reduce costs and become more sustainable. At least 400
staff could be affected by the move. Kaya FM
GUEST - Jacob van Rensburg – Researcher at South African Association of Freight Forwarders (SAAFF)
A report by the World Bank and rating agency S&P's that ranked four South African ports as among the worst in the world for efficiency and competitiveness is flawed and contains inaccuracies. This is according to operator Transnet Port Terminals and business
grouping the South African Association of Freight Forwarders (SAAFF), who believe the report was limited in its focus and missed a large number of boats. Kaya FM
GUEST - Thezi Mabuza - National Consumer Commission’s Deputy Commissioner
The NCC said that consumers with the Lovely Moisture Plus Kits (Regular, and Super) and Dark and Lovely Anti Breakage Kit should return the products and get a full refund.
These kits contain a 50ml single-use neutralising shampoo and the product was found to have bacteria. Kaya FM
GUEST: Gareth Cremen Cox Yeats Partner AND Kagiso Lebethe - Senior Employee Relations Specialist
Facing dismissal after years of service can be tough, but what happens when the company goes into business rescue before you can challenge the decision? The Companies Act 71 of 2008 places a moratorium on legal proceedings against companies undergoing business
rescue. In terms thereof, no legal proceeding may be commenced or proceeded within any forum against a company which has entered into business rescue proceedings, except amongst other exceptions, with the written consent of the business rescue practitioner,
or leave of the court. Without the necessary consent or leave, a party must await the conclusion of the business rescue proceedings before it may institute legal action. Kaya FM
GUEST – Deon Poovan, Senior Manager: Inspectorate and Regulatory Compliance at SAHPRA
On 13 April 2024, the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) initiated a precautionary recall of two batches of Benylin Paediatric Syrup (batch numbers 329303 and 329304), in response to reported high levels of diethylene glycol in an alert by the Nigerian National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). The recall was implemented as a precaution to protect lives while SAHPRA investigated the reported high levels of diethylene glycol, we get an update on the outcomes of these investigations. Kaya FM
GUEST - Liska Kloppers - DataEQ Telecoms Lead.
The latest South African Telecommunications Sentiment Index, undertaken by PwC South Africa in collaboration with DataEQ, has revealed that the local telecommunications industry continues to face significant challenges related to consumer sentiment.
An assessment of 1.62-million public mentions about Cell C, MTN, rain, Telkom and Vodacom from January 1 to December 31, 2023, found that, with a negative Net Sentiment score of -18.8%, local consumer sentiment toward telecommunications service providers lags other industries such as banking, insurance and retail. Kaya FM
GUEST – Zinhle Tyikwe, CEO, Consumer Goods Council of South Africa (CGCSA)
The new government administration that will take over the running South Africa post the elections this month will have its hands full in developing a job-creating economy with the high unemployment in the country. Kaya FM
GUEST: Ramasela Ganda - Zeda Limited Group Chief Executive Officer
Zeda Limited, Africa's leading integrated mobility solutions provider and operator of the globally recognised Avis and Budget brands, has today released its interim results, declaring a cash dividend for its shareholders for the first time since its JSE listing. The interim results showcase strong topline growth and cash generation.
More than a year since it was listed independently, the Zeda board declared a gross interim dividend of 50 cents per share, following an amendment to its dividend policy. The Group achieved a double-digit topline growth (19%), reaching a new record level revenue of R5 270 million. Meanwhile, an EBITDA growth (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortisation) of 7.5% was accrued in the face of a stagnant economy, softening used car market, and rising interest rates and fuel costs. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dr Nthabiseng Moleko - Development Economist at Stellenbosch Business School
The new government administration that will take over the running South Africa post the elections this month will have its hands full in developing a job-creating economy with the high unemployment in the country. Kaya FM
GUEST – Siobhan Redford, an economist at Rand Merchant Bank
The second quarter fieldwork for the RMB/BER Business Confidence Index (BCI) was conducted among 2 500 businesses and took place from 9 to 27 May 2024, a period preceding the 29th of May national and provincial elections that were widely expected to produce a national coalition government. The second quarter BCI survey results, therefore, predates the outcome of the elections. Kaya FM
GUEST - Lungile Mahluza, Chief People Officer at Deloitte South Africa
Deloitte’s 2024 Gen Zs and Millennial Survey report reveals unemployment and cost of living as top concerns for SA correspondents
47% Gen Z correspondence from South Africa reveal their top concerns is unemployment while 37% are concerned about the cost of living.
48% millennials correspondence from South Africa reveal their top concerns is unemployment while 43% are concerned about the cost of living.
Roughly six in 10 Gen Zs (56%) and millennials (55%) live paycheck-to-paycheck—up five points for Gen Zs and three points for millennials since last year. And around three in 10 say they do not feel financially secure.
Yet, there is cautious optimism that circumstances may improve. Just under a third of Gen Zs and millennials believe the economic situation in their countries will improve over the next year—the highest percentage since the 2020 Millennial Survey, fielded just before the onset of the COVID-19. And this optimism extends to their personal finances (48% of Gen Zs and 40% of millennials believe their finances will improve in the next year) Kaya FM
GUEST - Leon Louw - CEO, Freedom Foundation
Democracy is thought of as establishing ‘majority rule, yet, even with a ‘landslide victory’ a winner with as many as two-thirds (66%) of the vote, would represent a mere 27% of the South African electorate. A simple 50% majority of the vote would be just 20% (1 in 5) of the electorate.
The irony is that the majority – which never achieves power – is almost always non-voters. This raises profound questions, such as whether ‘None of the Above’ should be on every ballot, or whether formal provision should be made for non-voting ‘silent’ majorities to be represented. Kaya FM
GUEST - Political analyst, Dr Dale McKinley
The long-standing debate about the power of credit rating agencies (CRAs) has recently received additional attention due to the 2007–2009 financial crisis and the 2010–2012 European sovereign debt crisis. In this conversation we examine the commentary that has come from global credit agencies on South Africa’s economic outlook post the ANC’s coalition decision. Kaya FM
GUEST: Andrew Fulton, Director at Eighty20
In the past year, one out of every two adult South Africans—totalling 23.4 million people—purchased fast food. Approximately 20 millions of them dined at a fast-food outlet in the past month, a figure that has remained stable with a slight increase over the past 12 months. Notably, 90% of these 20 million individuals chose to eat at one of the top 10 fast food outlet. Kaya FM
GUEST – Micheal Atkins – Elections analyst
Once the results have been counted and finalised, the presiding officer and party agents will, in the presence of observers, sign the result slip which is then placed in a tamper-evident bag and transported to the results capture centre.
At the results capture centre, a check and balance process ensue. This includes checking that the result slip is correct, it has the details of the voting station and those of the presiding offer as well as the voting station’s unique barcode. This will then be captured onto the system using the double-blind method.
Using the barcode, the results slip will then be scanned, and the results are electronically matched to the appropriate voting district.
External auditors will then audit result slips to ensure the capturing was conducted correctly.
The results are taken through the IEC’s exception parameters. If an exception is flagged, the results will be investigated and taken through a recapture process.
Once results pass the test, it will become final and available to political parties, independent candidates, and the media. Kaya FM
GUEST - Alan Mukoki - South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry CEO
Business urges all parties to accept election results and work together to rebuild country Organised business has urged political leaders to accept the 2024 election results and to prioritise the crafting of stable governance arrangements underpinned by a commitment to the Constitution, as well as the economic reforms needed to support growth and job creation. Kaya FM
GUEST - Johann Els - Old Mutual Group Chief Economist
The results of South Africa's 2024 national elections have created a seismic shift in the political landscape, sending shockwaves throughout the country. For the first time since the end of apartheid, the African National Congress (ANC) lost its majority, securing only 40.18% of the vote. This dramatic change has significant implications for the country's economic and political future, as the nation faces a period of uncertainty and potential market volatility until the political situation becomes clearer. Kaya FM
GUEST – Rui Morais, Dis-Chem CEO
South African pharmacy group Dis-Chem announced in a Sens on Friday that its headline earnings per share declined by 1.6% for the year ended 29 February 2024.
Headline earnings per share were 114.6 cents for the full year ended 31 March 2024, compared to 116.5 cents per share in the corresponding period in 2023.
Dis-Chem declared a gross final cash dividend of 22.493 cents per share for the year ended 29 February 2024, an increase of 21.9% from the previous comparable period.
From 1 March 2023 to 29 February 2024, Dis-Chem Pharmacies recorded group revenue growth of 11.1%, to R36.3 billion, as trading conditions continued to strengthen in line with the first-half statement. Kaya FM
GUEST – Portia Mkhabela -Market Head For Association Of Chartered Certified Accountants Southern Africa
New research from ACCA (the Association of Chartered Accountants) reveals extent of concern over impact of bribery and corruption on SMEs A new ACCA report, Bribery and corruption: The hidden social evil on your doorstep, delves into the true extent of how bribery and corruption impacts SMEs across the world, highlighting the pressing need for enhanced transparency and robust regulatory frameworks.
The research shows a high prevalence and deep concerns about the damaging impact of bribery and corruption on SMEs, with 66% of SMEs in Africa and their advisers believing that standing up to bribery and corruption will cost them business trade or opportunities. This is higher than the global figure of 59%.
But the survey also reveals a strong understanding of the benefits of standing up to bribery and corruption. 64% agree that having a strong anti-bribery policy boosts customer confidence in their business – versus 77% globally - and 85% say it increases their chances of getting lucrative contracts with big businesses and public sector bodies, compared with 68% globally. Kaya FM
GUEST - Trudie Broekmann - Consumer law expert
What happens when a retailer displays the wrong price? The general principle is that a supplier cannot display goods for sale without displaying a price in relation to those goods. The exception to this rule is if the goods in question are being predominately used as a form of advertisement.
If there is an error in the price, the supplier cannot insist that the consumer pay a higher price for the goods or services than the one they display. If more than one price is displayed, the consumer is not required to pay the higher of the two prices displayed. However, this does not apply if a new price fully covers an old price. Kaya FM
GUEST - The Finance Ghost – Retail Analyst
When Raymond Ackerman listed his seven Pick n Pay (PnP) supermarkets in 1968 at 4c/share, it was the birth of a food retail champion. For 40 years, PnP continued to charm the market, keeping shareholders smiling all the way to the bank. In its year to February 2009, it reported a headline profit of R989m, earning for its shareholders a phenomenal 132,7% return on equity (RoE) Kaya FM
Elections: Business requires stability and reforms necessary to get our economy out of the low growth.
GUEST – Business Leadership SA CEO Busisiwe Mavuso
The business sector in South Africa has expressed hope that the seventh government administration will forge ahead with the structural reforms post the general elections. The sixth administration of our democracy has made solid progress in stabilising institutions and driving reforms necessary to get our economy out of the low growth, low employment trap we have been stuck in for over a decade. Kaya FM
GUEST - Nkosinathi Mahlangu, Youth Employment Portfolio Head at Momentum Metropolitan
With election day this week - and with the arrival of new political parties on the scene as the ruling party's popularity seems to drop - competition is fiercer than ever as parties campaign relentlessly in an effort to sway votes. And while politicians post their shiny manifestos and are strategically photographed out in communities Doing Good, youth unemployment continues to climb, with more than four out of every ten people aged between 15-34 currently not in employment, education or training.
Has any progress been made since the birth of democracy 30 years ago? Are we too far gone to start to turn this around? And will the upcoming elections make any difference? Nkosinathi Mahlangu, Youth Employment Portfolio Head at Momentum Metropolitan, believes there is reason for optimism - and even despite the latest unemployment stats, he sees green shoots of hope on the horizon. The question is, how will the upcoming elections help or hinder us in turning the youth unemployment problem on its head? Kaya FM
GUEST - Pick n Pay CEO Sean Summers
The Group delivered a weak FY24 result to 25 February 2024, driven by a substantial trading loss in the Pick n Pay business, which more than offset a strong performance from Boxer. The result was further impacted by a significantly higher interest charge resulting from increased gearing and a R2.8 billion non-cash store asset impairment in the Pick n Pay business. Kaya FM
GUEST - Thebe Ikalafeng - Founder and CEO of Brand Leadership Group
It’s Presidential election season and that can only mean one thing. Political ads galore! We will mute the TV, turn down the radio, look the other way as we pass a campaign worker taking surveys, at the very hint of a political message. We generalize what the ad message will entail – one candidate bashing another, using bits of pieces of material to distort whole truths, and never fully explain how they plan to fix the issue at hand.
For advertisers, however, it’s a season of opportunity. During this visceral political season, the needs of every candidate from their campaign and marketing teams are similar– the best outreach, the best strategy, use of funds, and proof of how it will get them elected. Kaya FM
GUEST – Tjaart Kruger – Tiger Brands CEO
Tiger Brands’ performance for the 6 months that ended 31 March 2024 reflects a tough trading environment in which consumers remain constrained. Total revenue for the year regressed by 1%, driven by price inflation of 8% and overall volume declines of 9%. Good volume growth in Exports was offset by declines in the Domestic Business.
In the Domestic Market, significantly improved performances were reported from the Groceries, Beverages, Personal Care, Tiger Brands Food Services Solutions (Food Services) and Baby segments. This was, however, diluted by an underperformance in the Grains portfolio and volume declines in Bakeries.
Total revenue for Exports and International increased by 22% to R2,6 billion, maintaining good momentum in trajectory in the Rest of Africa business with solid and sustained volume growth of 10%. Exports reported marked improvements in volumes, revenue and profitability. Building on the rejuvenation and remodelling of the Group’s key distributor model, volumes increased in Mozambique, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Kaya FM
Taddy Blecher – CEO of the Maharishi Institute
The real issues, however, often lie beyond the immediate illumination – beyond what you can see. In the context of the Anglo American-BHP takeover debate, there is much more at stake than what is immediately visible. What is at stake relates to the very soul and purpose of these individual companies, and their starkly contrasting approaches to how they do business. Kaya FM
Roy leads Krutham’s financial sector policy and public economics practice in South Africa, specialising in public policy development, banking strategy and general economics. Roy has over twenty years of experience in the public and private sectors, with a 15-year career with National Treasury, spanning macroeconomic policy and financial sector policy, latterly as chief director of financial markets and stability.
While at the Treasury he played a key role in several post global financial crisis reforms, including the introduction of Twin Peaks, Basel III, the Financial Markets Act, and the new recovery and resolution regime. Prior to that he was at Deloitte Consulting with clients including Eskom, Transnet, Sanral and Sasol. Roy holds a MSc in Economics from the London School of Economics and a PhD from Stellenbosch University. Kaya FM
GUEST: Nici Macdonald – Head of Department: Certification and Standards at The Financial Planning Institute - SA
South Africans who collaborate with Certified Financial Planner® professionals experience an enhanced quality of life, greater financial confidence and resilience, and increased satisfaction with their financial circumstances, a new survey shows. Launched on World Financial Planning Day (4 October), the FPSB Value of Financial Planning Research 2023 found that South Africans who work with a financial planning professional are better off, and consumers who work with a CFP® professional report the best outcomes.
The study was undertaken by independent research firm MYMAVINS for the Financial Planning Standards Board (FPSB) and the Financial Planning Institute of Southern Africa (FPI).
The South Africans interviewed were among 15 332 respondents who formed part of a global quantitative research study undertaken in February 2023. The respondents were over the age of 25 and earn more than $60 000 or hold more than $35 000 in investable assets or equivalent in other regions. The survey included 1 005 South Africans who earn more than R1 million a year or hold more than R600 000 in investable assets. Kaya FM
GUEST - Cumesh Moodliar - Investec SA CEO
South African lender and asset manager Investec posts 9.1% rise in full-year profit. The bank, which also operates in Britain and is listed in London, has increased targeted group return on equity (RoE) over the next three years to 13-17% from 12-16%. Kaya FM
GUEST - Brandon Cohen – Chairperson: National Automobile Dealers' Association (NADA)
The premium vehicle segment in South Africa is set to face significant challenges as sales drop due to the weak economy, high interest rates, and soaring fuel prices. As a result, many South Africans are avoiding premium cars and opting for the new wave of Chinese vehicles entering the market.
Aggregate new vehicle sales during the first quarter of 2024 recorded a decline of 5.6% compared to the corresponding quarter of 2023 and a marginal increase of 0.2% compared to the fourth quarter of 2023. Kaya FM
GUEST - Paul Byrne - Head of Data and Insights at CareerJunction.
Year-on-year, hiring activity decreased by -11%, compared to Q1:2023.
Over the past two years (Q1:2022 to Q1:2024) hiring activity has declined by -8.1%. Slowing hiring activity evident in the South African recruitment market may be partly attributed to current economic uncertainty. Economic instability or uncertainty, whether domestic or global, can dampen business confidence and investment, leading companies to be cautious about expanding their workforce. Factors such as fluctuations in commodity prices, political instability, or changes in government policies can all contribute to economic uncertainty. Kaya FM
GUEST - Tom Crotty, Head of Risk Technical Marketing at Liberty.
Liberty paid out R9.14 billion for mortality, lifestyle protection and income protection claims in 2023. The payouts comprised R6.72 billion in valid claims to individual clients, their families, and beneficiaries as well as well as R2.4 billion in corporate claims, according to Liberty's latest claims statistics. Cancer was again the leading cause of claims, accounting for 32.3%, followed by cardiac and cardiovascular diseases and disorders (23.4%), respiratory disorders (7.3%), strokes (5.6%) and traumatic injuries (4.5%). Kaya FM
GUEST - Paul Byrne - Head of Data and Insights at CareerJunction.
Year-on-year, hiring activity decreased by -11%, compared to Q1:2023.
Over the past two years (Q1:2022 to Q1:2024) hiring activity has declined by -8.1%. Slowing hiring activity evident in the South African recruitment market may be partly attributed to current economic uncertainty. Economic instability or uncertainty, whether domestic or global, can dampen business confidence and investment, leading companies to be cautious about expanding their workforce. Factors such as fluctuations in commodity prices, political instability, or changes in government policies can all contribute to economic uncertainty. Kaya FM
GUEST: Nkanzi Sokhulu, CEO of iWyze
While running your own business can be highly rewarding, there are risks involved too. If a client falls at your premises and claims for compensation, or you’re taken to court for negligence, you could face a bill for thousands of pounds, even if you’re subsequently proven to have done nothing wrong. And if your office gets flooded and you can’t work there for a month, you’d want to claim for interruption to your business. Kaya FM
GUEST - Casey Sprake, Investment Analyst – Fixed Income, Anchor Capital
For the second consecutive month, headline inflation, as measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), softened – declining to 5.2% YoY in April from 5.3% YoY in March. The headline inflation rate has held its ground between 5% and 6% since September 2023. Core inflation (excluding the more volatile price categories of food, fuel, and electricity) dropped to 4.6% YoY from 4.9% YoY in March.
This softening of core inflation was unsurprising, given the subdued demand in the economy, the low exchange rate passthrough, and the relatively minor spillovers from elevated fuel and electricity prices. This latest print means that inflation has moved closer to the 4.5% midpoint of the SA Reserve Bank's (SARB’s) target band of 3% to 6%, where it prefers to anchor expectations. Kaya FM
GUEST - Peter Wharton-Hood – Life Healthcare CEO
Life Healthcare Group reported strong operating performance for the six-month period to 31 March 2024, growing group revenue by 7.8% to R11.7 billion.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS:
· Conclusion of sale of Alliance Medical Group
· Revenue from continuing operations up 7.8%
· Southern Africa acute PPD growth up 2.7%
· Southern Africa acute revenue up 5.9%
· Conclusion of Fresenius Medical Care acquisition
· Life Molecular Imaging Neuraceq® dosage sales up by 74.4%
· Life Molecular Imaging revenue up 77.5% · Interim Dividend of 19 cents up 11.8% Kaya FM
GUEST – Greg Illgner - TymeBank’s Chief Strategy Officer
TymeBank and Flash, a South African payments solutions provider, have partnered to make it possible for TymeBank customers to withdraw cash at over 172,000 spaza shops and traders across the country. As a result, the bank now offers more cash withdrawal options and locations than any other bank in South Africa. Kaya FM
GUEST - Peter Machlup - Peter Machlup Fine Wristwatches
Despite high inflation and other economic pressures, the luxury watch market in South Africa is showing strong growth. With some caveats, the right watch brands are strong investments. Kaya FM
GUEST – Norman Raad, CEO of Broll Auctions and Sales
With more than 23 million square metres of retail space in South Africa, this commercial property segment continues to be one of the most actively traded assets on the auction floor by private investors and real estate investment trusts alike.
According to data from Lightstone, retail property last year registered the highest volume of transactions - almost 30% of total commercial property transactions completed at an estimated value of R15.8 billion. Lightstone also noted that mall visits between January and October 2023 were up three percent when compared to the same period in 2022.
Broll Auctions and Sales has done several sales across all provinces over the past year relating to shopping centres, including regional malls, local convenience centres, mixed-use properties and larger malls, as these assets remain hot property for investors. Kaya FM
GUEST: Horacia Naidoo-McCarthy - Institutional Clients manager at Allan Gray
While home may offer great comfort and safety in the known, there are enriching experiences and learnings to be gained from venturing into the great unknown. The same can be said for investing. Many investors suffer from “home country bias”, meaning that we invest a disproportionate amount of our savings locally. However, investing offshore allows long-term investors to take advantage of global opportunities to create a diversified portfolio that can protect your investment from a range of risks and deliver robust returns over time. Horacia Naidoo-McCarthy, Institutional Clients manager at Allan Gray, joins Kaya Biz to discuss the risks and rewards of offshore investing. Kaya FM
GUEST – Rapulane Mabelane, Chief Investment Officer at Thebe Investment Corporation
Thebe Investment Corporation has remained cautiously optimistic that the dispute over the evaluation of its 28% stake in Shell Downstream South Africa (SDSA) will be resolved within the next three months by arbitration as the two-year period after which its notice to sell its shareholding would have lapsed.
How BEE arrangements with multinationals work
GUEST - Israel Noko, CEO of NPI governance consulting
When multinational companies do business in South Africa, Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment or B-BBEE is one of their biggest challenges, with the ownership element being the greatest obstacle, mainly due to a global practice/policy that limits the Sale of Equity. Kaya FM
GUEST – Advocate Tertius Wessels who is a Legal Director at Strata-g Labour Solutions
Is there anything that employers can do to keep political neutrality in the workplace according to our labour law? Can an employer refuse employee to wear their political t-shirts in the workplace before and after the elections according to our labour laws? We unpack this and more for you. Kaya FM
GUEST - John Manyike - Head of Financial Education, Old Mutual
If you've never filed an insurance claim before, the process can seem daunting. Knowing what to do when the time comes and having access to certain documents can make the process a little bit easier. In this conversation we simply the 4-step claims process from the moment you report your loss to the resolution of your claim. Kaya FM
GUEST - Nongcali Rubushe JSE Head: Business Enablement & Retail
With scams on the rise, the JSE has launched a new free tool that will allow investors to check whether the financial professionals they deal with are credible. The stock exchange announced today that it has launched its ‘Verify a Broker’ Tool Kaya FM
GUEST - Steve Brookes – CEO of Balwin Properties
SA’s largest residential sectional-title developer reported a 29% decrease in group revenue to R2.4 billion (FY23: R3.3 billion) with 1 892 apartments recognised in revenue, a 32% reduction from the 2 788 apartments recognised in the prior year, “reflecting the challenging conditions in the residential housing market.” Kaya FM
GUEST: Darren Hele - Famous Brands CEO
Famous Brands, Africa’s leading branded food services franchisor maintained growth momentum with revenue increasing 8% to R8.0 billion. Despite the Group’s carefully managed cost base, operating profit decreased by 6% to R812 million and the operating profit margin declined to 10.1% (2023: 11.6%).
The operating profit margins were also impacted by input cost pressures and increases in overheads,namely electricity and water, diesel, repairs and maintenance and employee costs. To maintain attractive shareholder returns, Famous Brands paid a final dividend of 302 cents per share Kaya FM
GUEST – Gary Arnold – Astral Group Chief Operating Officer
Astral Foods has reported interim earnings at the upper end of guidance as it put a devastating bird flu outbreak behind it and benefitted from load shedding improvements and reduced diesel costs.
SA’s largest poultry producer had flagged a more than fivefold increase in headline earnings per share of between 435% and 445% in April, but Monday’s results for the half year to 31 March saw it delivering a 441% increase in basic headline earnings per share to 884c. Kaya FM
GUEST – Kagiso Lebethe - Senior Employee Relations Specialist
In the event that a company/business is sold as a ‘going concern’, section 197 of the Labour Relations Act becomes applicable. Section 197 of the Labour Relations Act regulates the transfer of a business and the rights of all employees affected by the transfer. In terms of section 197, a ‘business’ includes the whole or a part of any business, trade, undertaking or service, while ‘transfer’ means the transfer of a business by one employer (‘the old employer’) to another employer (‘the new employer’) as a going concern, which can also be referred to as the business changing hands. Kaya FM
Cebile Zibi was forced to step in and become involved in her late husband’s business when he tragically passed away from COVID-19. She was forced to step up and take over the enterprise that she was neither ready for nor experienced at.
Zibi is the Chief Marketing Officer of Momentum Money, digital savings account that helps you save and grow your money at a competitive interest rate of 8.84% per annum. She has an established track record in the marketing sector having worked for Blue Chip companies such as South African Breweries, British American Tobacco and Standard Bank. Kaya FM
GUEST: Andrea Ellens - Retail Industry Specialist at Trade Intelligence
The Liquor Retailing in South Africa Report by Trade Intelligence reveals a sector that continues to grow despite economic pressures and shifting shopper behaviour.
Despite significant pressure on the economy and shoppers’ ability to spend, South Africa’s liquor sector continues to prosper, showing growths that other categories watch in envy. The Liquor Retailing in South Africa Report is an in-depth look into this diverse and competitive area of retailing, shopper needs and wants, the informal market (that continues to succeed) and the global and local trends shaping the industry. Kaya FM
GUEST – Barry Berman is the CEO of Fines SA
On 1 July 2024, the new AARTO traffic system is expected to start rolling out across South Africa (it’s currently only active in Johannesburg & Tshwane). This means that there will be two traffic fine systems in. operation across the country. For those who drive in Gauteng and beyond and in other provinces, it will be important to know how the different fines systems work so that they can remain compliant and not face the embarrassment and inconvenience of accruing additional penalties or having traffic warrants to their name. Kaya FM
GUEST: Thokozile Mahlangu - CEO of Insurance Institute of South Africa (IISA)
In a bid to bridge the skills shortage in the sector and prepare matriculants and graduates for employment in the insurance industry, the Insurance Institute of South Africa (IISA) recently launched its Youth Accelerator Programme. IISA CEO Thokozile Mahlangu notes that the programme is aimed at upskilling and training learners on hard and soft skills, providing experiential learning and preparing them for entry-level jobs within the insurance space. Kaya FM
GUEST – Mbuso Mchunu – founder of Springforth Consulting and a medical aid advisor and Mkhulu Solly Nduku – Sector Leader – Traditional Health Practitioners
In South Africa, the landscape of traditional medicine coverage within medical aid schemes exhibits a notable variance. While comprehensive cover for all Homeopathic treatment remains absent across the board, specific schemes extend limited coverage for select services or practitioners. This nuanced scenario requires a closer examination to understand the spectrum of coverage and its implications. Kaya FM
GUEST – Steven Kark, CEO Paycorp
The average journey time for a South African to the closest ATM is 22 minutes. On Friday in peri-urban areas the waiting time for customers at an ATM can be as long as 60 minutes – and even longer in the bank branches. As a leading South African payments company, Paycorp is providing the financial infrastructure to address this demand.
Paycorp provides consumers with Visa-certified pre-paid card solutions and retailers with debit and credit card payment terminals – and maintains a fleet of ATMs in South Africa and Namibia. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dr Nicole Higgins, President, Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.
For over 40 years, Australia's universal health insurance scheme Medicare has been the foundation of Australia's health care system. The universal insurance scheme means, at least in theory, guarantees all Australians (and some overseas visitors) access to a wide range of health and hospital services at low or no cost. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dr Katlego Mothudi, Managing Director at Board of Healthcare Funders
President Cyril Ramaphosa has made good on his promise to sign the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill into law before the 2024 national election, bringing the contentious healthcare system into South Africa’s reality. The president signed the NHI into law at a ceremony on Wednesday (15 May) Kaya FM
GUEST – Adv Pansy Tlakula, chair of the Information Regulator of South Africa
The Information Regulator of South Africa has published a new guidance note for how political parties and independent candidates can use the personal information of voters.
One of the key focuses of the new guidance is that political parties and candidates only use the personal information they have collected, with consent, from voters themselves, and not process any information acquired from data brokers or lead generators.
Politicians are also required to protect any personal information they have collected, and use it for campaign purposes only. This aligns with the Protection of Personal Information Act No. 4 of 2013 (POPIA). Kaya FM
GUEST - Prenesh Padayachee, Chief Digital Officer at SEACOM
Sending a message or an email takes just a few seconds. With a click of a button, it is possible to connect with any website. Even though the internet functionality looks so simple, it is actually quite complicated. The world is connected with the help of approximately 750,000 miles of submarine cables. In total, there are around 380 underwater cables in the world. Therefore, even though it looks like the internet is on the cloud, it is buried deep inside the ocean. Submarine cable plays a critical role in the flow of network data globally. Kaya FM
GUEST – KC Makhubele – Spokesperson for South African Health Professionals Collaboration (SAHPC)
Doctors and medical professionals have taken aim at President Cyril Ramaphosa as he is expected to sign the controversial National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill into law this week, saying the legislation in its current form will limit instead of improve healthcare for South Africans.
The South African Health Professionals Collaboration (SAHPC), which represents more than 25 000 dedicated private and public sector healthcare workers, said its disappointment at the announcement stems from the "potential consequences the unworkable bill may inflict on the healthcare landscape." Kaya FM
GUEST – Lufuno Ratsiku - President of the The South African Council for the Project and Construction Management Profession
Incompetence of professionals in construction is a matter of life or death. Following the unfortunate building collapse in George, we reflect on the regulatory role industry bodies like the South African Council for the Project and Construction Management Professions (SACPCMP) play in professionalizing, registration and regulation of the project and construction management professions in South Africa. Kaya FM
GUEST - Risenga Maluleke - Statistician-General of South Africa
According to Stats SA’s latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey, the number of employed persons jumped by 22,000 quarterly to 16.7 million in Q1 2024. However, the number of unemployed persons increased by 330,000 to 8.2 million over the same quarter.
Moreover, the number of people who were not economically active for reasons other than discouragement decreased by 214,000 to 13.1 million. Discouraged work-seekers decreased by 1,000 in Q1 2024 compared to the fourth quarter of 2023. Kaya FM
GUEST – David van Wyk, mining analyst and lead researcher at the Bench Marks Foundation.
Anglo American Plc will exit diamond, platinum and coal mining in a massive restructuring designed to fend off a takeover approach from rival BHP Group and turn the 107-year old miner into a copper giant.
Anglo said Tuesday that it plans to demerge or sell its De Beers diamond business, separate its Anglo American Platinum Ltd. unit and sell its coking coal mines in Australia. It will also slow spending on a giant fertilizer mine in England. That will leave a much simpler company focused on iron ore and copper, a key metal for the energy transition. Kaya FM
GUEST – Jeff Wapnick – Octodec Properties CEO
Octodec Properties, which has a roughly R11 billion diversified portfolio that includes Killarney Mall and Woodmead Value Mart, said on Tuesday it has kept its interim dividend steady despite pressure from both municipal failures and higher operating costs. But, while the group is still confident in the quality of its assets, it has decided not to provide second-half guidance due to the risks posed by SA's elections and elevated interest rates. Kaya FM
GUEST - Waldo Marcus, Industry Principal at TPN Credit Bureau
The majority of people who rent residential accommodation do so for financial reasons with nearly half admitting they can’t afford to buy a property, according to credit bureau TPN’s latest Tenant Survey.
The annual Tenant Survey Report provides the property sector, including property owners and managers, with insights into tenants' needs, wants, aspirations, and challenges, allowing them to enhance their property offerings and better understand future trends based on consumer inputs. More than 170,000 tenants were surveyed, and 19,000 completed responses were received, making the TPN Tenant Survey Report the largest holistic tenant survey in South Africa. Tenant responses were sorted by gender, age, location, and rental value band. Kaya FM
GUEST - Jon Berkowitz, MotionAds co-founder
As the South African on-demand delivery industry flourishes, the concept of motorbike advertising, pioneered by MotionAds, has seen over R10 million paid to drivers who embraced the concept of advertising on their delivery boxes in the past five years.
Founded in 2019 by two young local entrepreneurs who identified an opportunity to brand the thousands of delivery bikes on the road, MotionAds integrates brand exposure while empowering drivers to earn additional income by carrying third-party advertising on the top box of their bikes. This shared-value model approach has seen drivers cumulatively earning over R10 million since 2019, up from just R3 million nearly two years ago. Kaya FM
GUEST - Manie Van Schalkwyk, CEO at the Southern African Fraud Prevention Service
The South African fraud landscape has steadily increased over the past five years, making this one of the top risks South Africans face daily. "This increase is alarming and indicative of how South Africans are becoming easy targets for fraudsters and scammers who are highly motivated to find their next victim," says Manie van Schalkwyk, CEO of the Southern African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS). Kaya FM
GUEST - Mikhail Motala, Fund Manager at PSG Asset Management
PSG Asset Management listed some of the often-overlooked factors that can potentially impact future returns that stock-pickers are well-positioned to exploit.
PSG Asset Management fund manager Mikhail Motala said many investors conflate South Africa’s weak economic environment with stock market returns. Kaya FM
GUEST – Kagiso Nonyane, senior indirect tax manager at BDO
Government implemented the diesel refund scheme in an attempt to support primary production in certain primary activities such as agriculture, mining, forestry, and fishing. The diesel refund scheme did not extend to secondary activities such as the processing of goods or manufacturing.
Over the past nine years, there have been various discussions between SARS, the National Treasury, and stakeholders from various industries regarding the reform of the diesel refund system.
In 2023, the scheme was extended to manufacturers of food products, with the extension being granted for a limited period, from 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2025.
While all of the above is excellent news, the process of keeping storage and usage logbooks is extremely arduous. Additionally, the time limit for food manufacturers is so short that many producers and manufacturers from all sectors simply aren’t prepared to jump through the multiple administrative requirements needed to effectively make use of the dispensation. This therefore defeats the purpose of extending the scheme. Kaya FM
GUEST – Shameel Joosub - Vodacom Group CEO
SA’s largest mobile operator Vodacom revenue climbed about 26% to R150 billion in the year to end-March, Vodacom announced on Monday, helped by an acquisition in Egypt in its 2023 year - now its second-biggest market. Kaya FM
GUEST - Gcobani Tunyiswa - Chief Commercial Officer at Aon
Sasria SOC Ltd is the only non-life insurer that provides special risk cover to all individuals and businesses that own assets in South Africa, as well as government entities. This is unique cover against risks such as civil commotion, public disorder, strikes, riots and terrorism, making South Africa one of the few countries in the world that provide this insurance, particularly at affordable premiums.
By enabling businesses to restore their liquidity or operations quickly and efficiently after experiencing loss or damage due to special risk events, Sasria SOC Ltd plays a significant role in preventing job losses, maintaining livelihoods, restoring pride and dignity and facilitating economic stability. Kaya FM
GUEST – Peter Major, director of mining at Modern Corporate Solutions.
Diamond miners have had a bumpy ride since the pandemic hit. To stop the spread of COVID, retail stores were closed and weddings were curtailed. Unlike gold or silver, diamonds are not a commodity. The diamond supply-chain relies on physical touch points with its customers. Kaya FM
GUEST – Maryke Pienaar - Marketing manager at FlySafair
FlySafair’s R10 ticket sale was a tremendous success, with over 1.7 million unique devices logging on to try to get a discount ticket. The airline offered deep discounts on domestic flight tickets between multiple routes to celebrate its birthday this week. In this year’s 10th birthday sale, 50,000 tickets were available at R10 each between 09:00 and 18:00 on Wednesday, 8 May 2024. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa – Electricity Minister
South Africa is facing a monumental challenge as it seeks to end years of rolling electricity outages that have hobbled the economy: it needs to build and fund a R390-billion expansion of the national grid so it can connect more power plants. Minister of Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa joins us to look at the state of the grid ahead of the 2024 elections. Kaya FM
Guest: Muvhango Lukhaimane - Pension Funds Adjudicator
Divorce can be a difficult and emotionally taxing process, and when it comes to dividing assets, it becomes even more complex. For many South Africans, one of the most significant assets to consider during a divorce is their pension fund. Understanding the legal complexities surrounding the division of pension funds is crucial for protecting your financial future. Kaya FM
GUEST - Finance Ghost – Retail Analyst AND Brandon de Kock, director of storytelling for WhyFive Insights,
According to a 2023 Bloomberg report, the global pet industry is worth around $320 billion right now and will reach $500 billion by 2030, about the same as the GDP of Nigeria. Recently we have seen a few more big retailers venturing into the pets business or acquiring small pets stores. Woolworths with Absolute Pets, Checkers with Petshop Science and now Food Lover’s Market entering the pet food market space with VetsMart. Kaya FM
GUEST – Benay Sager, executive head of DebtBusters
Persistently high interest rates and inflation – especially food inflation - continue to erode consumers’ disposable income, while a lack of any meaningful economic growth is constraining salaries.
Despite this, debt-to-annual-income ratio has remained stable for the past three quarters at 107%. While lower than 2023 levels, this is still high.
These are some of the findings from DebtBusters’ Q1 2024 Debt Index. The quarterly analysis of data from debt-counselling applicants also found that demand for debt management increased, with debt-counselling enquiries rising by 22% and the use of online debt management services up by 30% compared to the same period last year.
Benay Sager, executive head of DebtBusters, says although the improvement in overall debt levels combined with consistent monthly debt repayment trends are positive, the impact of increased interest rates on asset-linked debt is particularly evident in the 40+ age category.
The average interest rate for a bond has increased from 8.3% per annum in Q4 2020 to 12.3% in Q1 2024. For a R1.5million bond this adds an extra R4 000 per month to the repayment amount. Kaya FM
GUEST – Arthur Goldstuck, CEO of World Wide Worx.
Amazon.co.za has landed in South Africa. Where will it fit into the online retail landscape?
New research shows that South Africa’s online retail sector grew to R71 billion in 2023, up 29% increase from the previous year, positioning the sector to break the R100 billion mark by 2026. The 2023 rise comes after 35% growth the previous year (R55 billion in 2022). The research was conducted by World Wide Worx in partnership with Mastercard, Peach Payments, and Ask Afrika. Kaya FM
GUEST – Paseka Molelengoane – Co-founder of Indaba Billboards & Media and member of the Black Billboard Owners Association
These days, billboard advertising is one of the hottest sectors of the marketing industry and a booming and visible brand promotion business, particularly during the election campaign period.
Why is outdoor advertising (leaflets and posters), particularly billboards, so important during election campaigns? Why is the billboard advertisement sector such a booming business during election campaigns? Kaya FM
Guest - Peter Morgan, CEO of the Liquified Fuels Wholesalers Association (LFWA)
News that Shell plans to divest from its SA fuels business may be a shock to consumers, but it comes as little surprise to experts who say the industry is in flux globally, and also faces a tough local environment.
Shell, a global oil and gas major, confirmed reports that it was planning to exit its SA downstream business on Monday after more than 120 years of operation in the country. Kaya FM
GUEST – Sydney Moshoaliba - CWAO Education Officer
Labour action continued to decrease in 2023, with 83 worker strikes reported last year, according to the Casual Workers Advice Office (CWAO).
The number reported is nearly half that seen in 2018, where 165 different strikes were recorded, and a smaller drop from the 86 strikes in 2022. Kaya FM
GUEST - Home-spital founder, Nkululeko Khumalo
Homespital is a mobile application that connects people that require caregiving services to specialists that may be closer to them or have the right experience for their needs. caregivers will be able to update their profiles and get validated and create visibility of the services they offer per geographic location. Kaya FM
Guest – Michael Lawrence, Executive Director - National Clothing Retail Federation
South Africa's formerly flourishing clothing manufacturing industry has been decimated by international competition since 1994. Although significant progress has been made in enhancing the competitiveness of the multi-billion rand industry, the sector continues to shed jobs. With discretionary income shrinking, clothing retail sales are under growing pressure. Kaya FM
GUEST - Mthobisi Mthimkhulu, Direct Clients manager at Allan Gray
Most of us know what it means to build resilience in the context of health and wellness. But, what does it mean to be financially resilient? Building financial resilience can help investors manage the impact of rampant inflation and rising interest rates.
Mthobisi Mthimkhulu, Direct Clients manager at Allan Gray, joins Kaya Bizz to provide insight into how long-term investors can build financial resilience. Kaya FM
GUEST – Rodger George - Director: Consumer Industry Leader | Deloitte Africa
South Africa are scaling back on buying everyday items, savings, and spending. Across all income groups, healthcare & education incur a smaller share of the wallet to cope with the rising cost of living Kaya FM
Michael Jordaan stepped down as CEO of First National Bank (FNB), one of South Africa’s largest banks with a customer base of nearly nine million in 2013, to pursue his passion for entrepreneurship.
With more than 20 years’ experience in the financial services sector and nearly a decade at the helm of the Bank, Michael Jordaan oversaw the move away from traditional banking, and led FNB to be named the “World’s Most Innovative Bank” in 2012. He was the 2013 Sunday Times Business Leader Award winner and in 2014 was awarded CNBC The All-Africa Business Leader of the Year Award.
Michael Jordaan co-founded and chairs the new digital-only bank, Bank Zero, to be launched in South Africa. Bank Zero is part of the new frontier of banking, which has arrived through smartphones and associated digital technologies.
Jordaan was also among 13 South Africans chosen as Young Global Leaders by the World Economic Forum in 2008. He now heads up a private investment company, Montegray Capital and has a strategic role in his 21 start-up investments which range from the new data-driven mobile network Rain to the algorithmic investment fund NMRQL. Kaya FM
GUEST – Ntobeko Nyawo, Redefine’s CFO
Real-estate investment trust (Reit) Redefine Properties increased distributable income in the first half by 6.1% to R1.7bn and declared a dividend of 20.27c per share for the six months yo end-February.
Redefine owns retail, industrial, office, logistics and self-storage space in SA and Poland. At the end of February, its property assets under management were valued at R100.4bn. Kaya FM
GUEST – Salomo Hei – MD of High Economic Intelligence & Chairperson of the Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA)
Namibia has raised its economic growth forecasts for 2023 and 2024 and lowered a budget deficit projection due mainly to strong growth in the oil and mining sectors, its finance minister said on Wednesday. The southern African country expects to see economic growth of 5.6% for last year and 4.0% this year, up from projections of 3.5% and 2.9%, respectively, made in October. Kaya FM
GUEST – Vusimuzi Magubane – Founder of Magubane Corporate Advisors
Mergers and Acquisitions or ‘M&As’ have become integral components of South Africa’s corporate landscape and play a crucial role in economic growth and development. In this conversation, we explore the legal framework and key considerations surrounding M&A transactions. Kaya FM
GUEST - Lee Naik, CEO of TransUnion Africa
The findings show that:
In Q4 2023, the average loan value increased to R396,000, up from R386,000 in Q4 2022.
This 2.5% average loan value growth comes off the back of CPI of 5.1% in December 2023 and a new vehicle price increase of 6.3% (Q4 2023 vs. Q4 2022).
The used-to-new ratio of vehicles being financed shifted from 1.98 in Q4 2022 to 1.2 in Q4 2023.
The industry is evolving as consumers are benefiting from the introduction of new subscription-based and ‘vehicle on demand’ models and services.
Overall, the macroeconomic climate remains incredibly challenging for consumers and continues to affect buying power and spending habits.
EXPLAINER - PUBLIC TAKEOVERS IN SOUTH AFRICA Kaya FM
Zimbabwe's Finance Minister, Prof. Mthuli Ncube & Tafadzwa Chinamo, CEO of Zimbabwe Investment Development Agency join us to unpack the Zimbabwe Investment Summit in partnership with South Africa Kaya FM
GUEST – Boniwe Dunster - Human Resources Executive: Lanseria International Airport
How you handle criticism at work is very important for a healthy career. A study by the Harvard Business Review found that constructive criticism may be the best way to get the attention of someone who has become unproductive or complacent. Accepting criticism at work can be an important step toward increasing your efficiency and professional success. Kaya FM
GUEST – Vumi Msweli – CEO of Hesed Consulting
Workers' Day serves as a reminder of the importance of workers and the continuous need to advocate for their rights. As the future of work evolves, HR trends are moving toward a more flexible, inclusive, and technology-driven workplace. HR professionals play a critical role in shaping this future, focusing on employee wellbeing, diversity, digital transformation, and continuous learning.
The evolving trends point to a more employee-centric approach, where organizations must adapt to changing expectations to attract and retain talent effectively. Hesed Consulting will be hosting The Africa Career Summit a significant event designed to provide career development, networking, and professional growth opportunities for individuals interested in careers in Africa or with African-focused industries and organizations. Kaya FM
GUEST - Tshireletso Mokate - Camping RetrEats founder
Alberton-based Tshireletso Mokate walked away with a prize worth R1 million in 2023’s Nedbank Pitch & Polish. His business, Camping RetrEats, takes all the hard work out of camping like setting up fires and tents and doing all the cooking so that guests can experience the joys of the outdoors and adventure activities without worrying about the chores. Asked if the business has changed since winning the competition “Since winning Pitch & Polish, Camping RetrEats has moved to bigger premises, we’ve bought a second truck and have a larger workshop to store our equipment – it also means we’re now able to clean and maintain our equipment in-house.” Kaya FM
GUEST - Andrew Fulton, Director at Eighty20
The following six occupations collectively make up 77% of all the Elementary Occupations that account for nearly 29% of all jobs in South Africa:
Farmhands and Labourers: 1.1 million workers, of which 29% (315k) are female and 10% aged 15 – 24
Domestic workers: 876k, of which 95% are female (830k) and 2% aged 15 – 24
Hand-packers and other Manufacturing Labourers: 525k workers, of which 39% (204k) are female and 15% aged 15 – 24
Helpers and Cleaners in Offices, Hotels and other Establishments: 509k, of which 76% (386k) are female
Street Food Vendors and Related Workers: 384k, of which 63% (242k) are female
Sweepers and Related Labourers: 269k, of which 72% (193k) are female Kaya FM
GUEST – Yolanda Vatsha – SARB Chief of Staff
The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) has officially launched the Corporation for Deposit Insurance (CODI) to boost confidence and trust in the financial system. CODI will protect qualifying depositors, including individuals and non-financial businesses in the event of a possible bank failure by providing cover of up to R100 000 per bank. SARB says CODI, which will be its newest subsidiary, will protect nine out of 10 qualifying depositors in the country, though in rand terms this will equate to only about 23% of total deposits. Kaya FM
GUEST – Amogelang Mocumi, Fund Manager of Growthpoint Student Accommodation
It has been two years since property developer Growthpoint launched its student accommodations. Since then, Growthpoint Student Accommodation Reit has invested R1.5 billion in new investments in the alternative property sector.
Established in December 2021 by Growthpoint Investment Partners, the co-investment arm of JSE-listed Growthpoint Properties, the Reit specialises in investing in strategically located student accommodation designed to support students. Growthpoint has added 4 000 new beds for students, expanding its portfolio value to approximately R3.5 billion. This includes 12 residences with 9 000 beds across Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Pretoria. With two new developments in progress, it anticipates increasing its beds to 10 400 for the 2025 academic year. Kaya FM
GUEST - Fanie Ferreira, CEO of the Milk Producers Organization.
Over the past 15 years, South Africa has witnessed a significant decline in the number of dairy farms, leaving only around 1 000 remaining at present. While this hasn’t significantly reduced milk production, various other factors have contributed to the steadily increasing price of fresh milk that we have all noticed in our weekly grocery shopping outings. Kaya FM
GUEST – Izak Odendaal - Old Mutual Wealth Investment Strategist
In exactly a month, South Africa heads to the polls for a national general election. It is one of several notable elections worldwide. The stakes are particularly high locally, as it is the first time since the dawn of democracy in 1994 that a coalition government at national level seems the most likely outcome. What kind of coalition we end up with is keeping both armchair and professional political analysts deeply occupied. Kaya FM
GUEST - Nathen Bowers, CWU National Bargaining Co-ordinator
On 24 April 2024 the SAPO Business Rescue team and labour unions at the SA Post Office jointly applied to the Single Adjudication Committee to seek TERS relief funding for the bargaining unit staff. An agreement with unions to withdraw retrenchment notices, saving roughly 4,700 jobs at the struggling state entity—for at least 12 months.
The application was done as part of a last attempt alternative to reskill and equip these employees for the market place, unfortunetely that application was not successful meaning that all employees who had received retrenchment letters should continue with their exit process through their local Human Resources representatives. Kaya FM
Dr Samuel Motsuenyane, a founding member of the National African Federated Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Nafcoc) and an integral player in the formation of African Bank, has passed away at the age of 97. Dr Thabo Dloti, Chairman of African Bank talks to us about the legacy of Dr Samuel Motsuenyane. Kaya FM
GUEST – Karabo Senna - SAMRO GM: Sales and Licensing
DJs serve as powerful conduits for introducing South African music to a global audience, acting as cultural ambassadors who showcase the diverse sounds and rhythms of the nation. Through their performances, radio shows, and online platforms, DJs have an unparalleled reach that extends far beyond geographical boundaries, exposing international listeners to the vibrant musical landscape of South Africa.
However, it's imperative to recognise the crucial role of licensing DJs and music promoters in supporting the music industry and ensuring fair compensation for artists. By obtaining SAMRO licenses, DJs and music promoters uphold ethical standards and comply with legal requirements, safeguarding the rights of music creators and stakeholders.
These licenses enable DJs to legally play copyrighted music while guaranteeing that artists receive the royalties they deserve for their creative works. Moreover, licensing DJs and music promoters foster a thriving ecosystem where creativity is nurtured, innovation is encouraged, and artists can continue to thrive. In essence, paying SAMRO licenses is not only a matter of legal compliance but also a testament to the commitment to supporting South African music and the livelihoods of its talented artists. Kaya FM
South Africans continue to embrace online shopping, particularly in the fashion and apparel category, where local fashion e-tailers and international fashion e-commerce giants are capturing an increasing amount of consumer spend.
“Growth in South Africa’s digital economy is continuing to grow at a remarkable pace, but not at the detriment of bricks and mortar as our data shows. Still data from both local and international fashion retailers has been staggering,” Tumelo Ramugondo, head of credit card at Standard Bank, said Kaya FM
GUEST – Gregory Whittaker - Actuary and damages expert for the Actuarial Society of South Africa (ASSA)
The beleaguered Road Accident Fund (RAF) could save around R3 billion a year by rejecting opportunistic loss of income claims from individuals who suffered only minor injuries in a motor vehicle accident. Research by actuary and damages expert Gregory Whittaker for the Actuarial Society of South Africa (ASSA) shows that by local and international standards, loss of income compensation from the RAF for non-serious injuries is excessive. Kaya FM
GUEST – Sean Sanders is founder and CEO of Altify.
Born between 1997 and 2012, Gen Z have lived their entire lives in a digital-first world. These are the people who have never known a time before social media, been without a smartphone, or lacked instant access to information thanks to a consistent global connection made possible through the power of technology. These are also the people who are turning the world of investing on its head.
According to Bloomberg, the world’s youngest generation of adults now has $360bn in disposable income. Let that sink in for a second while keeping in mind that the oldest people from this generation are turning 27 in 2024. This incredible financial power is already reshaping cultural trends and redefining financial paradigms. Many of them are opting for investing rather than spending, making them one of the thriftiest generations yet — with an affinity for investment choices that may surprise. Kaya FM
GUEST - Christie Viljoen, PwC South Africa Senior Economist
PwC South Africa is pleased to share its fourth South Africa Economic Outlook report for 2024. In this edition, we focus on FDI and what South African companies can do to attract international deal interest.
It would come as a welcome surprise to many South Africans to learn that, despite the country’s many challenges, our economy still attracted almost R100 billion in FDI inflows in 2023 – equal to 1.4% of GDP. In fact, while some might expect South Africa’s investment outflows to be larger than inflows, the country has seen a net FDI inflow (inflows minus outflows) in every year since the global financial crisis.
South Africa has many positive attributes for foreign investors, including world-class financial services and communication industries, a deep capital market, quality tertiary institutions producing graduates with internationally-comparable qualifications, abundant natural resources (including renewables), a strategic geographical location for entry into the rest of Sub-Saharan Africa, a transparent legal system, and a certain degree of political and policy stability, among many other features. Kaya FM
GUEST - Seleho Tsatsi, Investment Analyst, Anchor Capital
Anglo American (Anglo [AGL]) confirmed on 25 April that it had received a US$39bn takeover offer from BHP Group (BHG). BHP is bidding for Anglo’s rump - everything in Anglo, excluding Amplats and Kumba. The market (before BHP’s initial proposal was announced) was implying a value for that rump of US$20bn. Anchor Capital estimates that Anglo’s rump (before BHP’s initial proposal was announced) was trading at 7x 2023 operating profit. Kaya FM
GUEST: Dr Mxolisi Mathebula – SAAPhd Media Director
Recent revelations of high-profile figures receiving such degrees from unrecognized entities have prompted calls for stricter regulations to safeguard the integrity of academic honors. The association issued a statement on Monday, regarding private universities that claim to be able to award honorary doctorates but are not officially accredited with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). Kaya FM
GUEST - Waldo Marcus, Industry Principal at TPN Credit Bureau
The residential rental sector continued to perform strongly with low vacancies in the fourth quarter of 2023, continuing its recovery trend of the previous three quarters, according to TPN Credit Bureau’s latest Vacancy Survey Report. Waldo Marcus, Industry Principal at TPN Credit Bureau says higher interest rates and low consumer confidence are amongst the reasons for this strong performance. “The current environment has deterred many South Africans from home ownership, resulting in a shift to the more secure and predictable alternative of renting residential property.” Kaya FM
GUEST - David Shapiro, chief investment strategist at Sasfin Wealth
The world’s largest mining company, BHP Group, has made a takeover approach for rival Anglo American, a move that could spark the biggest shakeup in the industry in over a decade. Anglo American said late on Wednesday that it had received an unsolicited all-share merger proposal, after several media platforms reported that BHP was considering a potential offer. Anglo added BHP’s proposal was conditional on the company first splitting off its South African platinum and iron ore units. Kaya FM
Guest - Wandile Sihlobo - Chief Economist of the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz)
Recent electoral polls continue to suggest that no single political party will win an outright majority in South Africa's 2024 national elections due to take place on 29 May. This creates uncertainty regarding the national government, which will emerge from any possible coalition discussions. Regardless of its composition, the seventh administration of democratic South Africa may have to refresh its economic policies when it assumes office. For some sectors of the economy, such a review may be necessary. The global environment in which we operate has changed significantly in recent months, partly because of the rising geopolitical tensions and their associated economic risks. Kaya FM
GUEST – Amith Singh is national manager: manufacturing at Nedbank Commercial Banking.
The discourse on SA’s manufacturing sector paints a picture of a once-thriving cornerstone of the economy now grappling with multifaceted challenges. Since the mid-2000s the industry has experienced steady decline, and so too its contribution to GDP. Figures Stats SA released in February illuminate this downturn, revealing a 1.7% drop in manufacturing production month on month and defying predictions of a 0.4% increase. The decline was broad-based, affecting six out of 10 sectors, with vehicle production plunging 13.8%. The drop is attributed to a combination of factors, including underinvestment, slow pace of domestic growth, escalating production costs, stiff competition from imports and pervasive investor uncertainty. Kaya FM
GUEST - Nkazi Sokhulu - iWYZE CEO
If you’re a homeowner, your house is probably your biggest asset, and you want to protect your investment against the unexpected. That’s where homeowners insurance kicks in.
Since its founding, Old Mutual iWYZE has worked to become the wisest choice in insurance in South Africa. They protect what matters to you. Car, home, life and Business Insurance the wise way. They also provide gap cover and other value-added services. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dr Grant Newton - CEO of the Centre for Diabetes and Endocrinology
Two healthcare companies in the South Africa, 3Sixty Global Solutions Group and the Centre for Diabetes and Endocrinology (CDE) are introducing devices to help people living with diabetes monitor blood sugar levels without injections or needles.
Currently Diabetics must prick their fingers to know if sugar level is too high or too low in their bodies. The companies are getting rid of the painful injections by introducing needle-free devices. This means people living with diabetes will no longer jab themselves to monitor blood sugar levels. This is a milestone, as monitoring sugar in the blood will be painless. One device you have to wear on the arm to monitor the sugar level. The other is a mobile hand held camera to detect complications of diabetes, diseases such as Diabetic retinopathy (complication of diabetes that affects the eyes), Diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage due to diabetes that can affect the legs and feet). This is good news to people living with diabetes because they have been suffering from needle-phobia. Kaya FM
People across the world are living longer, with economists forecasting that living to 120 years is now an imaginable concept within the next decade. Furthermore, the World Health Organisation (WHO) predicts that by 2030, one in six people worldwide will be aged 60 or above, and the number of individuals aged 80 years or older is expected to triple between 2020 and 2050 – reaching a staggering 426 million. Given the implications of an ageing world and people living longer, there is a very real risk that investors could run out of money during retirement.
Lise-Mari Crafford, head of ManCo Distribution at Allan Gray, joins Kaya Biz to discuss how investors can prepare for a successful transition from working life to retirement and shares tips to make your money last longer. Kaya FM
Capitec Bank, which now has 22 million active clients reported a 16% rise in full-year profit. Gerrie Fourie, CEO of Capitec joins us to unpack their latest results. Kaya FM
GUEST - Derek Hanekom - SAA Board Chair
Government is seeking potential minority investors and access to capital markets and loan financing for South African Airways for more rapidly. Kaya FM
GUEST – Kashmeera Kanji - Discovery Life Head of Market Analytics, Research & Development
Discovery Life published its 2023 claims experience showing positive trends in earlier detection of severe illnesses, influenced by an increase in health screenings, and significant decrease in COVID-19 claims. In 2023, Discovery Life paid claims to the value of R8.4 billion across both Group Risk and Individual Life policies. The company paid R6.45 billion in claims for individual life policies.
This consisted of 8,912 unique claims, which includes R3 billion in death claims. R1.5 billion was paid through the Severe Illness Benefit, R1 billion under the Capital Disability Benefit, R613 million under the Income Continuation Benefit, and R298 million under various other benefits. This brings the total value of claims paid under individual life policies to over R53 billion to date. Discovery Life also paid out R2.1 billion in Shared-value benefits, rewarding clients for managing their health and finances well, bringing the total paid to clients in the year to over R10 billion. Kaya FM
GUEST: Ray Mahlaka – Daily Maverick business journalist & Groovin Nchabeleng, Chairperson of the Black Agencies Network Association (BANA)
The digital revolution and the rise of social media platforms have transformed the way people are consuming content. Behavior shifts have led to massive declines in ratings and readership, hurting revenues. In this interview, we explore where this spending is going. Kaya FM
GUEST - Thabo Ditsele - Associate professor of sociolinguistics at Tshwane University of Technology
An Honorary Doctorate is an academic award given to individuals who have made significant contributions to a specific field, society, or culture. Unlike traditional doctoral degrees, honorary doctorates are not earned through coursework or research, but are awarded based on the recipient’s achievements and contributions to society. In this interview, we explore what an honorary doctorate is and how you can achieve one. Kaya FM
GUEST – David Shapiro, chief investment strategist at Sasfin Wealth
South Africa’s second-biggest insurer, Old Mutual, has received the go-ahead from the Reserve Bank’s Prudential Authority to launch OM Bank, subject to certain conditions. The insurer said on Friday that its Section 16 application for a banking licence to the Prudential Authority, the body responsible for regulating South Africa’s banking sector, was successful. Old Mutual also completed the necessary bank infrastructure at the end of 2023.
OM Bank has its sights on the mass market, which consists of individuals who typically earn between R1 000 and R30 000 per month and will compete with established players in this segment, such as Capitec. Once fully fledged, OM Bank will join Discovery Bank, TymeBank, and Bank Zero, all of which have entered South Africa’s burgeoning banking sector in recent years. They are all vying to steal market share from traditional banking giants such as Standard Bank, FNB, Nedbank, and Absa. Kaya FM
GUEST – Bradd Bendall - CEO of BetterBond
Although the interest rate has been at a 10 year high of 11.75% for two years, there are indicators that the real estate market is starting to recover. This is according to the most recent BetterBond Property Brief for April 2024, which shows a 7.8% increase in bond applications over the first three months of the year despite the highest interest rates levels since 2014. House prices have also recovered, with year-on-year inflation rates for first-time and repeat buyers hitting their highest levels since the SA Reserve Bank began raising interest rates at the end of 2021. Kaya FM
LVMH reported its weakest quarterly sales growth since the pandemic recovery supercharged luxury revenues at the start of 2021, as Chinese demand subsided and champagne sales fell. The world’s largest luxury group said like-for-like sales in Asia excluding Japan — which is dominated by the Chinese market — declined 6 per cent in the first three months of the year.
Revenues in the US and Europe grew 2 per cent, while sales in Japan increased 32 per cent, buoyed by the weak yen and an increase in Chinese tourist shopping. LVMH has kicked off the luxury earnings season “with a softer start to the year, as widely expected by the market, due to the multiyear tough comparable basis and weak trends globally”, said Zuzanna Pusz, analyst at UBS. Kaya FM
Schalk is a qualified actuary and the main architect behind our BrightRock insurance. He has worked in the financial services industry for over 15 years. He’s regularly invited to speak internationally about BrightRock’s unique, human-centric product design. Kaya FM
GUEST – Onke Dumeko, NFVF Head of Operation
The SA Film industry contributed R7.2 Billion in 2019, this dropped to R2.9 billion in 2020 due to Covid-19. KAYABiz host, Gugulethu Mfuphi investigates whether the sector recovered. Kaya FM
GUEST – Mudiwa Gavaza - business writer for the Business Day and Financial Mail
Canal+ has disclosed that it has bought even more shares in South Africa’s MultiChoice Group in recent days, taking its shareholding closer to the 50% mark. In a regulatory filing with the JSE on Thursday, Canal+ disclosed that it bought millions more of the JSE-listed MultiChoice’s shares between 12 and 17 April. It acquired 3.65 million shares in that period, and has said it could buy more in the open market as it pursues its plan to acquire control of the parent company of DStv, Showmax and SuperSport. Kaya FM
GUEST – Deon Smit, ExCo Member at the South African Reward Association (SARA) and Master Reward Specialist.
Managing expectations in the workplace is challenging, even more so when faced with the career aspirations of four different generations in one organisation or even one team. Employees are living longer and want to retire later, which means more and more organisations find themselves with a generation mix from Baby Boomers to Gen Z. Each, depending on their life stage, will have different needs, wants, views and expectations about remuneration, benefits, and their career. Kaya FM
GUEST - Andiswa Bata, SME Segment Head at FNB
Accessing the right funding and financing, at the right time, can mean the difference between starting up, staying open, or shutting down.
“The economy is facing a challenging business environment, with slow global growth, economic volatility, and ongoing power supply issues. This means that many businesses in South Africa are still trying to find their financial footing. This is especially true for small businesses, which play such an important role in the local economy. That’s where good credit comes in - as access to the right type of funding and finance can help SMEs grow, innovate, and create jobs,” says Andiswa Bata, SME Segment Head at FNB. Kaya FM
GUEST - Mziwabantu Dayimani – Acting CEO of the NEF
The National Empowerment Fund, a leading financial institution dedicated to fostering black economic development and empowerment, is proud to announce significant accomplishments in advancing entrepreneurship, job creation, and community development across South Africa. Since inception, the NEF has approved 1,603 transactions totaling more than R14.1 billion, with over R9.614 billion disbursed to beneficiary companies.
Notably, over R5 billion has been repaid by investees, demonstrating the program's sustainable impact. Continuing its commitment to excellence, the NEF has secured clean external audit opinions for 19 consecutive years, affirming its sound financial management practices and transparency. Through strategic investments and partnerships, the organization has facilitated the creation of 121 125 job opportunities, with 75 736 being new positions. Additionally, 24 strategic and industrial projects, valued at R12.6 billion, have been initiated, with the potential to support over 52 000 jobs. Kaya FM
GUEST – Charl Kocks - Principal at Ratings Afrika
While the financial sustainability of South Africa’s eight metropolitan councils has improved slightly, their average score from Ratings Afrika is a mere 43 out of 100, which the agency says is concerning. If one discounts Cape Town, which is once again the top performer with a score of 70, the average is only 39 out of 100. “At this level of financial sustainability, the majority of metros remain a concern.
They are considered to be the economic engines of the South African economy. Service delivery failure by the metros can cause immeasurable damage to the economy,” the agency said at the release of the 2023 results. Ratings Afrika has been publishing its Municipal Financial Sustainability Index (MFSI) since 2011. Kaya FM
GUEST – Martina Biene, Managing Director and Chairperson of Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA)
Volkswagen Group Africa is investing R4 billion into its manufacturing plant in Kariega, Eastern Cape. The investment will be used to upgrade facilities in preparation for the addition of a third model to its production line in 2027. Most of the R4 billion will be spent on production facilities, manufacturing tooling, local content tooling and quality assurance. Kaya FM
GUEST - Duma Ngcobo – Tracker COO
The demand for Toyotas, Volkswagens, Fords and Nissans remains high on the black market, with vehicle hijackings largely a business driven by demand and supply.
So says Fidelity Services Group, which has released a list of the seven most high-risk models for hijacks in South Africa. They are:
the Toyota Fortuner (GD6 and D4D), Hilux (GD6 and D4D), Corolla Cross, RAV 4;
VW Polo (especially hatchbacks);
Nissan NP 200; and
Ford Ranger (double and single cabs). Kaya FM
GUEST – Andrew Amoils - Head of Research at New World Wealth
The latest African Wealth Report for 2024 shows that South Africa has continued to bleed millionaires, with 400 wealthy individuals calling it quits on the country or losing their millionaire status in 2023 – adding to the thousands lost over the last decade. The wealth report, published by international wealth advisory firm Henley & Partners in collaboration with global wealth intelligence partner New World Wealth, shows that South Africa had 37,400 high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) at the end of 2023. This is 400 fewer than the 37,800 recorded at the end of 2022, and down 11,300 from the 48,700 recorded at the end of 2013. Kaya FM
GUEST - Charles Savage – CEO of Purple Group
Purple Group, the owner of retail trading platform EasyEquities, has posted record half-year revenue which it says marks a pivotal juncture on what it believes will be a "milestone year" for the group.
The small-cap financial services group, which has also expanded into asset management and crypto assets, said interim revenue jumped 29.3% to R188.8 million in the six months to end-February. It booked a profit of R10.9 million, from a loss of R10.6 million previously, bouncing back from a dismal prior half year when trading volumes slumped to record lows amid volatility on global markets. Kaya FM
GUEST – Michael Markovitz - Head, GIBS Media Leadership Think Tank
In October 2023, eMedia escalated its ongoing dispute with MultiChoice over sports rights by taking it to the Competition Commission. This came after the High Court removed eMedia’s urgent application from its roll. Through its Openview satellite TV service, the application sought to broadcast the 2023 Rugby World Cup matches for free on SABC TV channels. Kaya FM
Guest: Terence Delomoney - Group Executive Operations Management at Airports Company South Africa & Guy Leitch - Aviation Analyst.
The Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has warned it is faced with a potential jet fuel crisis, and blamed it on a dispute between South African Revenue Service (SARS) and petroleum companies.
Stock levels at the OR Tambo International Airport have recently dipped below the acceptable five-day benchmark and some airlines have already been warned of a reduced fuel supply from their suppliers, forcing them to take operational decisions to plan for this impact.
The supply concerns come as the inland refinery, Natref, which is also the main source of jet fuel into OR Tambo International Airport, is preparing for its planned temporary shutdown sometime between May and June this year. Kaya FM
GUEST - Jeremy Sampson - Brand Finance Africa MD
BRAND FINANCE SOUTH AFRICA 100 2024
•MTN is the most valuable South African brand, followed by Vodacom and Standard Bank
•Nando’s enters the ranking for the first time as the fourth most valuable brand
•First National Bank becomes the strongest South African brand
•South African retailers face mixed brand value fortunes but remain amongst strongest brands
•Shoprite group’s brands show strong performance Kaya FM
GUEST - Jurgen Eckmann, Wealth Manager at Consult by Momentum.
SpendTrend24, a survey released last week, has revealed that the City of Gold is deserving of its name: when it comes to ka-ching, Joburgers are SA's biggest spenders, shelling out almost 50% more than the average citizen!
The study, which analysed credit card data, showed that groceries, retail, travel and fuel were SA's biggest spend categories, with retail shopping being the main category for high-network clients. For mass, mass affluent and everyday affluent consumers, groceries were the biggest budget line item. The survey also showed that Joburg spends more than other provinces on eating out. Kaya FM
GUEST - Jan Vermeulen, Editor - MyBroadband.
South African consumers frequently shopping from popular online Chinese stores Shein and Temu should be aware that the cheap prices they pay for products might carry a high cost in other areas.
While the stores have taken South Africa by storm, cybersecurity experts, lawmakers, and fair labour advocates have warned that their methods of doing business might not be what many deem to be ethical — or even legal.
The concerns relate to the conditions under which these retailers’ suppliers have their employees working, how the companies handle and protect users’ personal data, and the reputation that the stores have when it comes to deliveries and returns. Kaya FM
GUEST Deon Poovan, SAHPRA Senior Manager: Inspectorate and Regulatory Compliance.
Two batches of Benylin cough syrup have been recalled after high levels of diethylene glycol were discovered in the medicine.
According to the SA Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), diethylene glycol is a toxic compound that can be fatal if consumed.
On Saturday, SAHPRA reported that it had received a report from Nigeria's National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control about the detection of high levels of the substance.
The affected products have the batch numbers 329304 and 329303, and have been distributed to South Africa, Eswatini, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania and Nigeria. Kaya FM
GUEST - Kagiso Khaole, GM, Uber Sub-Saharan Africa.
Uber has launched a new solution for South Africa in the form of Uber for teens.
The solution is available today locally, and should be accessible to all account holders in order to create a paired profile for those aged 13 to 17. It is accessible across the country, and is not simply limited to the major cities in SA, as it caters for smaller towns too.
As people may or may not know, creating an Uber account requires you to be 18 years of age or older, so Uber for teens specifically addresses the need for parents/guardians to give their children a level of independence when making use of the ridesharing platform. Kaya FM
GUEST – Jaco van Jaarsveldt, Experian’s Head of Commercial Strategy & Innovation.
South African businesses are demonstrating resilience and adaptability in the face of a challenging economic environment. This is according to the latest Experian Business Debt Index (BDI), an indicator of business health and the overall state of the South African economy.
The BDI, which measures the business conditions in South Africa relative to the macro-economic environment and the ability of businesses to pay their creditors on time, rose marginally in Q4 to 0.364 from 0.148 in Q3. This is reflecting some resilience on the part of the South African economy and the ability of businesses to cope with a low-growth environment. Kaya FM
GUEST - Zwelakhe Mnguni – Chief Investment Officer & Co-Founder at Benguela Global Fund Managers
Ellies is going into liquidation with no reasonable prospect of the company being rescued.
In January, Ellies announced it was going into voluntary business rescue proceedings in terms of 129(1) of the Companies Act.
This came after the group’s bankers said that they would not fund the proposed transaction where the company would Magetz Electrical Proprietary Limited and Power on Wheels Proprietary Limited (collectively, Bundu Power).
Furthermore, the group failed to publish its interim results in the six months ended 31 October 2023, which were required to be released within three months of the period end. Kaya FM
GUEST – Tebogo Moraka, Group Chief Financial Officer for the City of Johannesburg
The City of Joburg has issued a warning to all defaulting residential property owners and businesses that it will soon start blacklisting them to recover debts owed.
The city said that it is facing a growing municipal debt bill exceeding R52 billion, of which, R40 billion is due by thousands of residential property owners and businesses.
It said it also intends to invoke its Credit Control and Debt Collection Policy by reporting defaulting payers to appropriate Credit Bureaus.
Tebogo Moraka, Group Chief Financial Officer, said the city has set up a Specialised Revenue Collection Team, which will specifically target these defaulting payers across the city, and try to recoup the monies owed. Kaya FM
GUEST – Simon Brown – Founder of JustOneLap
WeBuyCars will debut on the JSE on Thursday following Transaction Capital’s decision to unbundle the business and list it separately.
There is, understandably, a lot of retail investor interest in this listing, not only because of the car retailer’s high profile – almost everyone knows someone who’s sold or bought a car through WeBuyCars, such is their scale. But there has also been a dearth of new listings on the local bourse, meaning that any newcomer to the market will get extra attention. Kaya FM
Guest - Faan van der Walt, CEO of WeBuyCars.
WeBuyCars listed on the Main Board of the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) on Thursday (11 April) under the share code “WBC.”
Established in 2001, WeBuyCars, as the name suggests, is a buyer and seller of pre-owned vehicles, which was previously a complex and lengthy process. Kaya FM
GUEST – Paul Byrne’s - Head of Insights and Customer Success at Pnet.
Hiring activity has seen a year-on-year decline, but there are still jobs that are in high demand.
According to Pnet’s latest Job Market Trends Report, hiring activity increased from January to February 2024.
That said, hiring activity decreased by -4% compared to February 2023.
Hiring activity was also down 1% from February 2022.
Despite the year-on-drop, there are still jobs that are trending and in high demand.
Pnet said that jobs in Payroll and Wages (finance sector) are the most in-demand in the country.
This is followed by Personal assistants and Client/Customer Support, both in the Admin, Office, and Support sectors.
Nursing/Professional Care Giving (Medical and Health) and Representative/Sales Consulting (Sales) completed the top five.
Notably, besides Nursing/Professional caregiving, all of these jobs are found in sectors that have seen an uptick in remote work since the COVID-19 pandemic. Kaya FM
If serving on a board is your goal, then this conversation is for you!
Dondo Mogajane, CEO of the Moti Group and Chairperson of the Government Employees Pension Fund joins us to unpack how you can best position yourself for a board position. Kaya FM
GUEST - Hayley Ivins-Downes, Head of Digital at Lightstone Property
Lightstone’s latest property newsletter revealed South Africa’s top five suburbs for homes priced over R1 million, ranked based on sales numbers and total purchase price for 2023.
According to Lightstone’s latest data, the real estate market in South Africa witnessed some notable changes in the ranking of the top-selling suburbs.
According to the data, Bryanston in Gauteng emerged as the most popular suburb in terms of both volume and total purchase price for both years.
Meanwhile, Sea Point in the Western Cape secured the second spot in 2023, moving up from the third in 2022.
Midstream Estate in Gauteng ranked second in 2022 but slid down to the third spot in 2023.
Additionally, Val de Vie and Fresnaye, which were placed fourth and fifth in the Western Cape in 2022, lost their positions in the top five in 2023.
Instead, Sibaya Coastal Precinct in KwaZulu-Natal took the fourth spot, followed by Sunningdale in the Western Cape, which ranked fifth in 2023. Kaya FM
GUEST - Ignatius Sehoole - CEO of KPMG South Africa
KPMG South Africa said on Friday that its identification and investigation of potential bursary fraud at the auditing and professional services firm was an integral part of the arrest of a former employee, Fidelis Moema.
KPMG Chief Executive, Ignatius Sehoole joins KAYABiz host, Gugulethu Mfuphi to unpack how the company will be handling the matter. Kaya FM
GUEST - Steven Powell, head of ENSafrica's forensics practice
SA continues to experience high levels of corruption, as illustrated by its two-place year-on-year decline to a rank of 72nd out of 180 in the 2022 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) published by Transparency International. Given the corruption risks present in SA, organisations operating in the country should implement appropriate controls to mitigate these risks. Lifestyle audits are an excellent measure for organisations to consider incorporating as part of their control arsenal. Kaya FM
GUEST - Lee Naik, CEO of TransUnion Africa.
The report shows that;
The new credit activity growth was led mostly by Gen Z and Millennial consumers, who together accounted for
61% of new products originated during the quarter.
The most significant year-over-year (YoY) growth in originations was in non-retail credit products: personal
loan originations increased by 13.4%, home loan originations increased by 17.5% YoY, and credit card originations increased by 4.3% YoY.
Delinquencies improved YoY by 90 basis points (bps) from 38.5% to 37.6% in Q4 2023, with delinquencies improving
across all unsecured products. Vehicle finance remained flat YoY and home loans were the only major credit product with deteriorating delinquencies (by 140 bps).
Clothing account originations in South Africa maintained their upward trajectory, registering a 6.9% YoY
increase in new accounts, and account-level delinquencies across all three retail credit products improved, with retail revolving loans down by 220 bps and retail instalment loans down by 190 bps Kaya FM
GUEST - Mpho Rambau Acting Group Manager Traffic Development at Airports
Company South Africa
Global geopolitical developments and South Africa’s sluggish economy will likely play a major role in reshaping
Airport Company South Africa’s (ACSA) traffic development strategy over the next decade, as the domestic market is expected to continue to struggle.
The country's sluggish economic growth is anticipated to have a direct impact on domestic air traffic. Although
we have made significant strides, domestic air traffic recovery seems to be peaking, despite this market segment not reaching pre-COVID-19 passenger traffic volumes. As a result, ACSA's strategic focus has shifted to leverage opportunities within Africa and
beyond to drive growth in the South African market and across our airport network.
A large part of this strategy will involve harnessing initiatives such as the Single African Air Transport
Market (SAATM) to improve the connectivity to the rest of the continent. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dr. Prosper Chitambara, Independent Economist
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) on Friday introduced a new currency to be known as the ZiG, which stands for Zimbabwe Gold.
RBZ governor John Mushayavanhu said the ZiG would be structured and set at a market-determined exchange rate. It replaces the Zimbabwe
dollar, which was largely known as the RTGs, which has lost more than three quarters of its value this year. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dashni Vilakazi, MD of The MediaShop JHB
Influencers have emerged as pivotal players, bridging the gap between brands and the country's diverse consumer base. With the digital terrain more fragmented than ever, the pressing question for marketers is: How do you measure the true impact of influencer partnerships, and what strategies ensure success?
A recent Influencer Marketing Hub report sheds light on this, revealing that 63% of South African marketers now prioritize performance-driven models like cost per engagement (CPE) or cost per click (CPC). This shift underscores a growing emphasis on tangible results, aiming for a clear-cut return on investment in the influencer realm.
The influencer ecosystem is far from homogenous. Data from marketing platform Humanz, highlights the vast landscape of South African influencers, categorizing them from nano to superstar based on their follower counts.
The findings reveal a predominance of nano-influencers, individuals with 1,000 to 4,999 followers, known for their high engagement levels within niche communities. This contrasts sharply with the rarefied air of superstar influencers, boasting over a million followers but facing challenges in trust and engagement metrics.
However, the influencer marketing landscape is not without its pitfalls. Over 48% of Instagram influencers in South Africa reportedly inflate their follower and engagement stats, a concerning trend highlighted by HypeAuditor. Kaya FM
GUEST - Wendy Spalding, managing director at Tuesday Consulting
On the one hand we’re constantly hearing about the talent and skills shortage in South Africa; on the other, a number of high performers and top-executives are being retrenched or exiting the very careers where they have been developed and fast-tracked, due to corporate action beyond their control – shareholder issues, restructuring, new leadership, mergers and acquisitions.
Wendy Spalding, managing director at Tuesday Consulting, an executive search and advisory firm, provides further info on this increasing trend in South Africa and has advice for other high-performance executives who are potentially at risk of this kind of corporate action. Kaya FM
Guest - Mybroadband editor, Jan Vermuelen
MyBroadband Insights has published the Q1 2024 Mobile Network Quality Report, which shows that MTN has the best mobile network in South Africa.
The report is based on 285,839 speed tests performed by 7,197 mobile data users across South Africa between 1 January 2024 and 31 March 2024.
The testing included data from crowdsourced users and dedicated drive tests, ensuring a balanced and accurate representation of real-world network performance.
The research shows that South Africa had an average mobile download speed of 66.82 Mbps and an average upload speed of 15.42 Mbps.
MTN had the highest average download speed at 82.48 Mbps, followed by Vodacom at 77.45 Mbps, Cell C at 39.32 Mbps, and Telkom at 30.49 Mbps.
Rain had the worst performance, with an average download speed of 19.41 Mbps. It was well below the national average and out of sync with the rest of the industry. Kaya FM
GUEST - Maryke Pienaar, a marketing manager at FlySafair
Leading low-cost airline FlySafair has issued a cautionary note to its customers that it will stop taking cash for all on board purchases as of 17 April 2024. The airline says this is not only to increase speed and efficiency of their catering services, but also for security purposes. Kaya FM
GUEST - Paul Makube, Senior Agricultural Economist, FNB Commercial
The latest news on the cocoa market is that prices surged to a record high of US$9,733/ ton late in March 2024 and recently topped US10,051/ ton as inclement weather decimates yields in major production areas.
Consequently, the price of chocolate which is the most popular and the largest byproduct from cocoa processing is rising. However, indications are that the upward price adjustment will be gradual given the magnitude of the increase at commodity level due to a need to avoid a potential demand shock. Further, consideration of consumer inflation, elevated interest rates, and subdued global economic growth are crucial in navigating pricing during these crucial times.
Domestically, the average price of a chocolate slab (80 Gram) was R22.48 in February 2024 which is up by 4.3% m/m and almost 17% higher y/y. Similarly, a chocolate bar cost on average R14.14 which is 7% higher y/y.
At commodity level, Ivory Coast cocoa shipments for the past six months were reported down by 28% y/y at 1.3 million tons. Ivory Coast’s 2023/24 cocoa production which ends in September 2024 is forecast to contract by a whopping 22% y/y to an 8-year low of 1.75 million tons according to the trader Ecom Agroindustrial. In Ghana, the 2023/24 cocoa harvest will reach a 22-year low of 422,500 tons to 425,000 tons largely due to the disease outbreaks and unfavourable weather conditions.
Globally, the International Cocoa Organization’s (ICO) first in forecasts for the 2023/24 cocoa year indicated that supply would fall by 11% y/y to 4.45 million tons. Surging cocoa prices will thus cut demand by 5% y/y to 4.78 million tons. However, the recent forecasts of a quick transition from the El Nino weather pattern to La Nina for the year ahead bodes well for a potential recovery in output in some of the producing areas. Kaya FM
GUEST – Themba Palagangwe, SA Insurance Associations's General Manager: Governance and Transformation
Climate-related catastrophes such as floods and storms continue to exert a significant toll on both consumers and society at large, greatly affecting South Africa’s socio-economic landscape.
The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) has observed a notable surge in weather-related insurance claims among its member companies for both property and motor insurance, underscoring the growing vulnerability of individuals and communities to climate change risks.
South Africa experienced severe weather events that resulted in more than 400 deaths and destruction of more than 12 000 homes in 2022. In KwaZulu-Natal, the floods were the most catastrophic natural disaster to hit South Africa in living memory, leading to billions of Rands in economic losses. According to the Western Cape government, at least R3.5 billion worth of infrastructure was destroyed in two major floods in June and September last year. Such devastating events have a huge impact on the well-being of communities.
In response to this escalating trend, SAIA remains committed to enhancing consumer awareness and promoting risk management frameworks. By advocating for the adoption of non-life insurance products and services as integral components of comprehensive risk mitigation measures, SAIA aims to empower individuals and households to navigate the evolving challenges posed by climate change. Kaya FM
GUEST – Myles Waldeck, Head of M&A Buy Side at Merchantec Capital
In this quarter’s Merchantec CEO Confidence Index, CEOs were asked about their predictions on political developments: "Will the ANC’s support fall below 50% in the upcoming elections?" An overwhelming 79.7% of CEOs indicated that they believe it will.
The responses highlighted a shared concern among CEOs over the current political direction and its impact on the business climate. A significant number of leaders expressed a desire for change, with some calling for economic reforms and a pivot away from ideologies seen as detrimental to market freedom. "We need to allow the free markets to take the reins. Privatise all SOE's," one CEO stated, reflecting a wider sentiment for change. Kaya FM
GUEST- Ncumisa Mkunqwana - Chief Executive Officer at Chapu Chartered Accountants
Accounting firms face a host of challenges in just about every aspect of their practices that require changes in their business models and their everyday workflows, what services they offer clients, their approaches to recruiting and retention, how they integrate technology into their practices, and more Kaya FM
Funeka Montjane is the Chief Executive Officer, Personal and Private Banking for Standard Bank Group. Personal and Private Banking is a segment of the bank that provides financial services and life journey solutions to individual customers across the entire social pyramid. Prior to her current role as Chief Executive of Personal and Private Banking, Funeka held the following positions at Standard Bank:
– Chief Executive: PPB (Personal and Private Banking) South Africa,
– Head of Credit, PBB South Africa;
– Head of Home Loans, PBB South Africa; and
– Chief Financial Officer, PBB South Africa
Funeka obtained her BCom(Accounting) and BCom(Accounting)(Honours) degrees from the University of the Witwatersrand. She is a qualified Chartered Accountant and holds a Master of Commerce degree from the University of Johannesburg. Before joining Standard Bank, Funeka worked at PricewaterhouseCoopers, where she became a partner in 2005. She was selected to be a member of the World Economic Forum Young Global Leaders class of 2015. In 2016 Funeka was awarded the Businesswoman of the Year in the Corporate Category by the Businesswomen’s Association of South Africa (BWASA). She was honoured by the University of Johannesburg with the Dignitas Award for 2020 for her contribution to women empowerment and community upliftment. She recently joined the Board of Stanbic IBTC Bank PLC Nigeria, as a Non-Executive Director. Kaya FM
GUEST - Hylton Kallner - Discovery Bank CEO
Key insights from the report:
Groceries, retail, travel, and fuel make up nearly two thirds of South African spend.
The study found that South Africans are increasingly using their mobile phones to pay instead of physical wallets.
Average spending on eating out and takeout rose by 8% in 2023, highlighting its enduring popularity and convenience. Consumers have adapted to higher levels of loadshedding with low variance across the different levels.
South African spend growth in 2023 for online outpaces in-store by 5 times | South Africans are increasingly shopping online, surpassing other emerging market cities and keeping pace with developed ones.
Entertainment continues to shift online, as streaming becomes more ubiquitous and sports entertainment takes hold (Disney +, Netflix, Prime Video and Showmax)
Joburgers are SA’s biggest spenders – JHB residents spent 47% more than the average South African
Similar to global trends, South Africans are increasingly engaging in “leisure” travel, combining business trips with leisure activities by extending their stays and taking advantage of remote work opportunities.
Cheapest time to fly: Sunday 6:00 Most expensive time to fly: Friday 13:00
The trend of people moving from inland areas to cities along the Garden Route has also led to increased travel to East London, George, and Gqeberha. Kaya FM
GUEST - Nontokozo Madonsela, Chief Marketing Officer at Momentum Metropolitan
What are the top soft skills for future leaders if you want to be successful in your career? Technical skills
will only get you so far in your career. This, unfortunately, is a critical message that new leaders are not enlightened with at college or university.
Good managers know that there’s more to their role than decent money and an impressive job title. They are
always willing to learn and sharpen a certain set of soft skills that enables them to boost productivity, encourage their staff to be the best version of themselves and create and maintain a positive work culture. In this interview, we look at the essential
soft skills all excellent managers possess. Kaya FM
GUEST - Motlatsi Komote, Legal Researcher at Corruption Watch
The provinces of Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, the Free State, and the Western Cape have been identified as major
hotspots for these corrupt activities. This is outlined in Corruption Watch’s (CW) 2023 annual report, titled “Changing the landscape,” which takes stock of the group’s work that aims to “expose, confront, and take preventative action against corruption” in
South Africa. Kaya FM
GUEST -
Prof Raymond Parsons - Economist and professor at the NWU School of Business
The uncertainty around South Africa’s 2024 elections has started to weigh down on investors and markets, with
the North West University’s Business School Policy Uncertainty Index (PUI) for South Africa edging further into negative territory for the first quarter of the current year.
Opinion polls and analysts say the governing ANC will require a coalition to retain its mandate, although
Standard Bank analysts say President Cyril Ramaphosa’s party will garner sufficient votes to avoid a coalition.
Nonetheless, the South African environment ahead of the elections has started to weigh on investors and markets,
notes the North West University’s PUI released yesterday. Its PUI index for South Africa for the first quarter accelerated further into negative territory, worsening from 65.5 to 65.8. Kaya FM
GUEST – Reggie Sibiya, the chief executive at Fuel Retailers' Association
The petrol retail price is regulated by government and changed on the first Wednesday of the month. The calculation of the new price
is done by the Central Energy Fund (CEF) on behalf of the Department of Energy (DOE). The petrol pump price is composed of a number of price elements and these can be divided into international and domestic elements. The international element, or Basic Fuel
price (BFP), is based on what it would cost a South African importer to buy petrol from an international refinery and to transport the product onto South African shores. Kaya FM
GUEST – Lea Schafer - Head of Fundraising and Communications at student crowdfunding platform Feenix
South Africa’s sluggish economy and high unemployment rate is still a cause for concern for many South Africans. It impacts the tertiary sector with many young people who qualify to
pursue tertiary education in our country but who cannot do so because of a lack of financial resources.
In this conversation we address these challenges, and we call on communities to help tackle the student funding crisis. Kaya FM
GUEST – Andrew Woodburn, MD of Amrop Woodburn Mann.
Remuneration of directors is among the most hotly debated topics in corporate governance, with shareholders wanting information and directors wanting privacy. Some policy on this does
exist in the King Report on Corporate Governance Kaya FM
Consumers spent enthusiastically this Easter according to the latest data from Standard Bank. KAYABiz host, Gugulethu Mfuphi is joined by Head of Credit at Standard bank South Africa, Tumelo Ramugondo to unpack the 2024 Easter weekend spending trends. Kaya FM
Illicit cigarette sales now thought to make up more than 70% of South Africa’s total cigarette market says the British American Tobacco.
Area Head of Corporate and Regulatory Affairs for BAT Sub-Saharan Africa, Johnny Moloto unpacks this further. Kaya FM
GUEST – Edward Kieswetter – SARS Commissioner
SARS collected a record R2.155 trillion in tax revenue and paid out refunds of R414 billion to taxpayers, the highest ever quantum in refunds compared to R381 billion in the prior year,
SARS Commissioner, Edward Kieswetter joins us. Kaya FM
GUEST - Siyakhe Masiye, spokesperson at MiWay Insurance
Easter is road-trip season in South Africa, with many people looking to take advantage of the long weekend
by travelling to outlying holiday spots. As drivers take to the roads it is key to take precaution and carefully prepare when it comes to route mapping as crime-related incidents along the routes using Google Maps continue to rise. This is the opinion of Siyakhe
Masiye, spokesperson at MiWay Insurance who says that although GPS systems can be immensely beneficial when travelling via lesser-known routes, it is important to review the route that the system provides before hitting the road.
"Preferably, you should never follow the navigation blindly; instead, you should have an idea of the highways
you will be using, making sure to check their safety ratings and warnings ahead of time." Main routes such as the N1 towards Limpopo, the N3 towards Durban and other destinations towards Western Cape, Mpumalanga, and Bloemfontein are some of the most popular
domestic travel destinations over Easter, especially for families and friends, says Masiye. "However, reaching the hidden gems within these crowd-favourite locations can take motorists off the beaten track.
On these kinds of trips, road conditions may vary, and emergency services might be less accessible. Therefore,
safe and responsible driving habits should be a top priority. Kaya FM
Steven Zwane’s work experience is in the areas of Technology; Operations; Sales & Marketing; Human Resources;
Strategy Planning, Formulation and Execution; Performance Management & Reporting; and Channel Management across industries such as Education & Training, Financial Services and Management Consulting. Steven has held Leadership, Management and Directorship positions
in the mentioned industries, more recently with Barclays Africa Group and the National Student Financial Aid Scheme. He has over 20 years of Financial Services experience which cuts across Retail Banking, Private Banking, Business Banking & Insurance and Development
Financing. Steven is currently the Managing Executive for Coprorate Citizeship at ABSA Group, one of the top four Pan African Banks of South African origin. He is also a lecturer and a faculty member at Africa’s highly ranked Business School – Gordon Institute
of Business Science.
Additionally, as the Founder and Chairperson of the award-winning Youth Leadership & Entrepreneurship Development
(YLED) non-profit organisation, he guides and provides oversight on the running of the organisation’s Programmes. Since 2004, he has been a resident facilitator / lecturer on a part time basis in the field of leadership, entrepreneurship and business on numerous
youth development programmes including life skills and mentorship (Accenture South Africa, First National Bank); Junior Achievement’s Mini Enterprise Programme, Youth Leadership and Entrepreneurship Development programmes and Wits Business School’s (WBS) New
Venture Creation Programmes aimed at various school going youth, entrepreneurs and management students. Steven transitioned into mainstream lecturing in 2012, with a stint in the Milpark Business School Certificate in Management Development (2012, 2013); Wits
Business School/BANKSETA’s International Development Programme (2014, 2015); and Wits Business Schools’ Management Accelerated Programme (2014).
More recently, Steven co-wrote a case study on succession planning in a township business and oversaw the
writing of an entrepreneurial memoir titled ‘Conquering the poverty of the mind’ an Entrepreneurship journey of Phumlaphi Rita Zwane. This took in excess of 300 MBA students on the Township Economy Immersion as part of the GIBS MBA’s Environment of Business
Module. Prior to this, he taught an Elective to MPhil in Inclusive Innovation students at the UCT Graduate School Business; served as a guest speaker on Intrapreneurship at Woolworths Supply Chain conference and was appointed into the GIBS Faculty and lecture
roles after he had served as an MBA teaching associate during the Environment of Business block. Furthermore, he was accepted for a Doctor in Business Administration Programme by Durham Business School, which started in Sep 2019. Steven serves on the Canon
Collins Trust Alumni, as one of the founding members and at YLED non-profit organisation as the Chairperson. He previously served in the Board of the Institute of Bankers, and he is also a member of the Sector Skills Plan sub-committee at Bankseta Steven has Kaya FM
GUEST - Colin Timmis - Xero Country Manager
The beauty of cloud technology is that it’s able to integrate with other apps that solve issues for other
areas of running a business beyond core accounting. The Xero App Store has over 1,000 apps that connect to Xero to solve a plethora of unique business needs supporting everything from cash flow to reporting, to inventory management, and HR tools.
Colin Timmis is the country manager for South Africa, leading business operations and growth across the country
for the last four years. He joined Xero in 2016 as head of accounting, South Africa. Colin has over 12 years of experience in the accounting profession and has expertise in cloud accounting software implementation, development and best practice. In 2011 he
founded South Africa’s first ever cloud practice, Real Time Accounting, and later became the first certified Xero advisor in South Africa. Colin has also worked at global accounting firm BDO and is a SAIPA certified accountant. Kaya FM
GUEST – Ayanda Majola - Co-founders of SV Capital
Considering that most of South Africa’s young aspirants spend their money on 6 things alone: entertainment,
fashion, education, travel, accommodation and cell phone data, it’s not surprising that short or long term investing is as far removed from the Sunday Lunch Table as is yesterday’s status update. For Ayanda Majola and Kagiso Tloubatla, Co-founders of South
African investment group, SV Capital, it doesn’t need to be so complicated. According to the SV Capital team, investing for the future has earned itself a rap among youth for being too boring, too risky, ‘too adult’, or quite simply inaccessible. It’s all
a myth. Kaya FM
GUEST – Helen Buhrs, CEO of Inscape Education Group & Trudie Broekmann
- Consumer law expert
Students who’ve been negatively impacted by Educor’s deregistration can claim their hard-earned money back,
according to a consumer law expert. Minister of Higher Education Blade Nzimande announced the deregistration of four Educor institutions on Tuesday. City Varsity, Damelin, Icesa City Campus and Lyceum College were stripped of accreditation for their failure
to submit annual financial statements and tax clearance certificates for 2021 and 2022. While the institutions will be granted a phase-out period to allow students in the ‘pipeline’ to complete their studies, the move has left thousands stressed out over their
academic future. Kaya FM
GUEST –Adv Pansy Tlakula Information Regulator Chairperson
David Dickens, CEO of the Direct Marketing Association of South Africa
I The Information Regulator (IR) is clamping down on public and private South African entities that have allegedly
violated direct marketing provisions, such as improper marketing calls. Kaya FM
GUEST - Vangelis Kyiazis - Co-founder and CEO of Syft Analytics
Vangelis Kyriazis is the visionary Co-founder and CEO of Syft Analytics, an acclaimed financial reporting
and analytics platform. He has seamlessly transitioned from running a personal accounting practice to leading a global tech success, impacting over 100,000 business professionals worldwide. His academic foundation was laid at the University of the Witwatersrand,
earning a BAccSci Honours in Accounting and Finance. Prior to Syft, Vangelis applied his expertise at Investec, focusing on structured finance and analytics. With a keen eye for technological advancement in accounting, Vangelis has propelled Syft to win numerous
awards, revolutionizing financial reporting for SMEs by simplifying complex data into actionable insights. Kaya FM
GUEST – Jeanette Marais – CEO of Momentum Metropolitan Holdings
Momentum Metropolitan Holdings reported robust earnings for the six months ended 31 December 2023. Highlights
include normalised headline earnings of R2.4 billion, up 42% on the prior period, and a 69% increase in operating profit to R2 billion. Sales were strong with the Group’s present value of new business premiums (PVNBP) increasing by 18% to R39.1 billion, however,
its value of new business (VNB) declined by 38% to R200 million Kaya FM
GUEST – Arthur Kamp, Sanlam Investments Chief Economist
As widely predicted, the South African Reserve Bank (Sarb) kept its key repo rate at 8.25% on Wednesday, which
means the prime lending rate of local commercial banks also remains unchanged at 11.75%. Sarb governor Lesetja Kganyago announced the decision following the bank’s March Monetary Policy Committee (MPC). This is the fifth consecutive ‘hold’ repo rate decision
by the central bank, which keeps SA’s benchmark rate at a 15-year high. Kaya FM
GUEST – Casper Troskie is Chief Financial Officer at Old Mutual
Old Mutual delivered robust operational and financial performance in 2023, with progress on its integrated
financial service strategy evident in strong topline growth and exceptional value of new business. The positive momentum, sound strategic choices and execution resulted in double-digit sales growth of 17% across life segments as Old Mutual continues to grow
market share profitably in key markets. Value of new business grew by an impressive 37% in 2023, with gross flows and gross written premiums increasing by 14%. Kaya FM
GUEST - Paul Makube, Senior Agricultural Economist, FNB Commercial
The latest results of the Agbiz/IDC Agribusiness Confidence survey still showed a subdued mood among agribusiness
as widely expected given the negative turn on the weather front that slashed harvest prospects for the 2023/24 summer crop season. This follows further negative news about agriculture’s GDP growth which plummeted by 9.7% q/q in Q4 of 2023 after a -11.7 q/q
reading in Q2 according to Statistics South Africa. Agriculture’s performance was indeed bad in 2023 as its overall gross value added fell sharply by 12.2% y/y. Kaya FM
GUEST - Simon Magner - Managing director and founder of Iridium
As the managing director and founder of Iridium, who were the 2023 Xero Partner of the Year SA, Simon is
able to make decisions on how to run a digital business in an age where technology abounds. He leads a team of professional and tech-savvy accountants who deliver tailored and outsourced solutions to clients. When he qualified as a CA(SA), he didn't know the
world of cloud accounting existed. Xero has played a huge part in Iridium’s journey and the company is excited about the way technology is enabling them to grow. Simon says that being a tech accounting is an amazing space to operate in and he looks forward
to shaping the way the industry moves ahead. Kaya FM
GUEST - Risenga Maluleke - Statistician-General of South Africa
consumer units receiving services from municipalities increased between 2020/2021 and 2021/2022 financial
years. For the period under review, water showed the highest percentage increase (5,9%), followed by sewerage and sanitation (3,7%), electricity (1,7%) and solid waste management (1,6%).
The provision of free basic services (FBS) provided to consumer units decreased in all services between
the 2020/2021 and 2021/2022 financial years. Differences in the number of consumer units receiving free basic services between 2020/2021 and 2021/2022 were the result of households not renewing their status in 2021/2022 and they were therefore automatically
deregistered by their respective municipalities.
Furthermore, some households have reached a predefined threshold that made them no longer eligible to receive
benefits. According to 2021/2022 financial year estimates, there were 2,6 million indigent households as identified by municipalities, an increase of 1,8% from 2020/2021 financial year. Of the 2,6 identified indigents, 2,1 million indigent households benefited
from the indigent support system on water, while 1,8 million benefited from indigent support on electricity provided by municipalities.
Furthermore, 1,9 million indigent households benefited from the indigent support system on sewerage and
sanitation and 1,6 million indigent households benefited from the indigent support system on solid waste management. Kaya FM
GUEST – Ari Katz, CEO of Boston City Campus
Thousands of students face an uncertain future after the Department of Higher Education's decision to deregister
Damelin, Lyceum colleges and CityVarsity. This has a devastating impact on both students, who have invested time and money in their studies, and employees of these institutions. What happens to these stranded students now – do they have any recourse regarding
their qualifications and money they’ve spent? Kaya FM
GUEST – Gareth Friedlander, a member of the ASISA Life and Risk Board
Committee
Policyholders and beneficiaries received R599 billion in 2023 from life insurers that are members of the Association
for Savings and Investment South Africa (ASISA) following tragic life events like death and disability or significant life stage changes like retirement. Payments made to policyholders and beneficiaries included retirement annuity and endowment policy benefits,
as well as claims against life, disability, critical illness and income protection policies. The long-term insurance statistics released today by ASISA also show that members managed 43.8 million risk and savings policies on behalf of policyholders at the
end of December 2023. In-force policies increased marginally from 43.2 million at the end of December 2022. Kaya FM
GUEST – Busi Roberts – Group Account Director: Edelman
The Edelman Trust Barometer for 2024 shows that South Africans don’t trust the government on its own – but change their tune if private businesses get involved and partner with the state to resolve issues. The barometer assesses the influence of trust across society – looking at levels of trust for government, media, business, and NGOs – According to Edelman, trust is the most valuable “currency” an organisation can have, as it gives a “license to operate, lead and succeed”. “Trust is the foundation that allows an organisation to take responsible risk, and, if it makes mistakes, to rebound from them,” the group said. However, the 2024 barometer, which gauged responses from 32,000 people in 28 countries (a minimum of 1,150 per country), found that trust in global authorities is declining – and that even science is under pressure from the spread of misinformation and perceptions of “political influence”. Kaya FM
GUEST- Zak Haeri, MD for NIQ in South Africa
According to NIQ, 44% of South African consumers feel they are in a worse financial position this year compared to a year ago. Of those respondents, 82% say that increased costs of living are to blame for their recent financial struggles, up from 76% a year ago. Nearly two-thirds (62%) state they are worse off due to the economic slowdown, up from 57% a year ago.
Half (50%) of respondents report concerns about job security, up from 43% a year. Some 27% blame ongoing Covid-19 disruptions and setbacks for their financial situation, down from 45% a year back. These findings appeared in “Consumer Outlook 2024", the latest NIQ Thought Leadership report capturing the mindset and sentiment of consumers around the world. The report shows that South African consumers across the board are tightening their belts. Nearly all (99%) have changed their FMCG shopping habits. Downgrading from premium to mainstream or value products is one of the most widely adopted strategies. Nearly half (48%) have switched to lower priced options. Kaya FM
GUEST - Lornelle Jonas - Managing Director at E'lique Advisory (part of Xero Partner Advisory Council
Running a business means being constantly on the move, and traditional accounting systems can't keep up with the dynamic lifestyle of an entrepreneur. This is where the beauty of cloud accounting comes in.
Cloud accounting software takes the heavy lifting out by automating manual processes and storing all financial data in one easily accessible, secure system. Using cloud-based software instead of desktop or paper-based systems can help business owners become more efficient and increase productivity. The beauty of cloud technology is that it’s able to integrate with other apps that solve issues for other areas of running a business beyond core accounting.
The Xero App Store has over 1,000 apps that connect to Xero to solve a plethora of unique business needs supporting everything from cash flow to reporting, to inventory management, and HR tools. Kaya FM
GUEST: Rob Rose – Author of Steinheist
Former Steinhoff chief executive Markus Jooste has tragically died. Jooste's death comes following a penalty of R475million imposed by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) after it found that he contributed to the publication of misleading or deceptive financial statements about the company. Kaya FM
GUEST - Kusini Water founder Murendeni Mafumo
Kusini to equip communities with water skills, unlock economic opportunities
A Fourways-based enterprise provides water treatment facilities to rural settlements while providing jobs to unemployed youth across the country. Kusini Water is a social enterprise that builds water treatment systems from nanotechnology and locally sourced macadamia nutshells to provide clean drinking water to people.
The company’s employment initiative, The Kusini Water Champions is a skills development programme aimed at unemployed young people in the country. The programme gives technical training to young people, primarily unemployed women, to gain the skills and national qualifications in the basics of water technology and treatment. Since its launch, the programme has trained 90 water champions and built seven water kiosks across the country, and now the 6th annual Gauteng Kusini Water Champions boot camp will be held in June. Kaya FM
GUEST – Wandile Sihlobo - Chief Economist of the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz)
Nearly three decades after the dawn of democracy, South Africa has remained a country of ‘two agricultures’. On the one hand we have a subsistence, primarily non-commercial, black farming segment. On the other hand, however, we have a predominantly commercial and white farming sector that is well-resourced and has access to domestic and international trade networks. These disparities can be traced back to South Africa’s painful history where, for decades, black farmers were on the margins of government support and also experienced land dispossession and livestock plunder.
A Country of Two Agricultures focuses less on history and more on the present and the future, explaining why these disparities have persisted in the democratic era, and what it will take to overcome them. It aims to contribute to a better understanding of the variety of agricultural forces, taking into account both questions of domestic political economy and external factors, as well as to bring to light new risks and opportunities. Wandile Sihlobo offers insights into the role of agriculture in the South African economy from an agricultural economy perspective, and provides political economy insights that are rooted in the experiences of farming communities on the ground and right through the value chain.
Beyond insights on the realities this book offers the government, the private sector, and anyone interested in the betterment of the South African economy, tools to grapple with this duality, and proposes a framework for bolstering the black farming segment for growth and competitiveness – and ultimately food security. Kaya FM
GUEST:
Former Steinhoff chief executive Markus Jooste has tragically died. Jooste's death comes following a penalty of R475million imposed by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) after it found that he contributed to the publication of misleading or deceptive financial statements about the company. Kaya FM
GUEST - Hayley Ivins-Downes, Head of Digital at Lightstone Property
Soweto is one of the most dynamic residential property markets in the country. It is a bustling neighbourhood with some 37 suburbs which are home to over 186,000 properties, more than double compared to 1994 according to Lightstone data.
More than 2,000 property transactions worth more than R1.1bn have been recorded for Soweto over the past year. Generally, a 40%-plus of buyers tend to be under 35-years of age with the majority being first-time buyers, according to Lightstone, the research group. Kaya FM
GUEST -
Carol Mazaka, Head of Consumer Services at 1Life Insurance
There are some astounding statistics surrounding family business succession. First, the average lifespan of a
family-owned business is only 24 years, or roughly one generation. In addition, nearly 60% of family-owned businesses fail to make it to the second generation, while nearly 90% fail to make it to the third generation. Nearly half of the family-owned business
failures were caused by the founder's death, while only 16.4% of family-owned businesses failed after an orderly transition. Kaya FM
GUEST – Andrew Fulton, Director at Eighty20
Eighty20 has released its 2023 Q4 Credit Stress Report (CSR) in collaboration with Xpert Decision Systems
(XDS) outlining developments in the credit sector as well as its impact on the economic landscape. The 2023 Q3 analysis brought a glimmer of hope to South Africa's credit sector for the first time in years.
This optimism was short-lived as Q4 highlighted a blend of both positive and negative indicators with the unemployment
rate increasing slightly, inflation creeping up, and consumer confidence dipping down again.
Despite this, there was a significant improvement within the credit sector as the percentage of loans in arrears
decreased by a full percentage point. Although our economy bounced back to its pre-Covid level in mid-2023, there was a 0.3% decline in GDP during Q3 of 2023, raising concerns of being at risk of a recession when the GDP figures are released on March 5th.
The UK has already slipped into a technical recession, and globally, theoutlook remains bleak. Kaya FM
GUEST – Clive Butkow, founder of Conducive Capital
There are two ways to launch a business: With funding, and without it. 99% of businesses in South Africa fall into the second category – they launch a business without any financial assistance.
They then fund each month’s operations through sales – either of products or services. This is known as bootstrapping. Some start-ups can’t be launched without business funding though, and most companies reach a point where they need some capital to help them grow or fulfil a large order.
Founder of Conducive Capital, Clive Butkow helps you understand what type of business funding suits your business best. Kaya FM
GUEST - Alex Pascoe, Departmental Head for Market Abuse at the FSCA
The Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) has today issued a penalty of R475 million to Mr Markus Jooste, following a thorough investigation. The investigation found that Mr Jooste and Mr Dirk Schreiber made or published false, misleading, or deceptive statements about Steinhoff International Holdings Limited and Steinhoff International Holdings NV, which they knew or ought reasonably to have known were false, misleading, or deceptive. Such publication included the omission of material facts Kaya FM
GUEST - The Finance Ghost – Retail Analyst
2024 promises to be a good year for new listings on the JSE as more holding companies announce their plans to unbundle their subsidiaries and list them separately on the stock exchange.
WeBuyCars, Boxer, Rainbow Chicken and TymeBank are some of the new listings we can expect this year onward. KAYABiz host, Gugulethu Mfuphi investigates whether this strategy always lead to success as predicted Kaya FM
SA's biggest medical scheme administrator, Discovery reported a net profit growth of 3% to R3.3 billion in the six months to end-December.
Discovery Group CEO, Adrian Gore joins KAYABiz with Gugulethu Mfuphi to unpack the company's latest performance update Kaya FM
GUEST - Molebatsi Langa, head of strategic retail accounts at Old Mutual Insure
The interview unpacks:
What are the risks that businesses face in today's environment, especially regarding product quality and safety?
How does Product Liability and Recall Insurance help mitigate the financial losses for companies facing product recalls?
What are the key differences and features of Product Liability and Recall Insurance
What are some typical scenarios where product recall insurance would be triggered, and what expenses does it typically cover?
Essential steps for SA businesses in mitigating risks related to product recalls. Kaya FM
UEST – Nkhensani Mashimbyi, Economist at Absa Agribusiness
Beef prices, which have historically been sensitive to increases in the frequency and intensity of load shedding, have responded favourably to a surge in consumer demand over the festive season, despite an escalation in the occurrence and severity of load shedding. This is according to the Autumn edition of the Absa AgriTrends Report, which predicts that beef prices are likely to follow an upward trend over the medium term, supported by improved export prospects to markets such as Saudi Arabia. Kaya FM
GUEST – Lisette IJssel De Schepper. Senior Economist at Bureau for Economic Research (BER)
Data from the Bureau for Economic Research’s (BER) latest Retail Trade survey yesterday showed BER’s retailer confidence index slumped back to 34 in the first quarter of 2024 – implying that only a third of the retailers surveyed by the BER were satisfied with prevailing business conditions. Kaya FM
Remgro reported a 40% plunge in interim headline earnings due to the difficult operating environment, particularly in relation to the trading results of Heineken Beverages Remgro Limited CFO, Neville William joins us to unpack their latest results Kaya FM
GUEST – Amanda Cromhout - CEO of Truth
Market research firm BrandMapp and consultancy Truth have published the 2023/24 Loyalty Whitepaper, revealing which loyalty programmes are the most used in South Africa – with Checkers Xtra Savings now in the top spot.
The whitepaper looks are different economic segments, namely the ‘economically active’ group of South Africans – homes with a monthly household income of at least R10,000 – and the ‘mass market’ consumer – lower-income households earning less than R10,000 a month. Economically active consumers only represent 30% of all adults but are 100% of the country’s tax-paying base and 85% of all consumer spending.
The most popular loyalty programmes change significantly across segments. In the 2023/24 study, the group found that 76% of South Africans now use a loyalty programme in some capacity, up three percentage points from the 2022/23 survey. Among respondents, around 30% indicated that they were using loyalty programmes more over the past year – echoing findings from analysts, debt councillors and the banking sector, where they pointed to South African’s becoming more reliant on different ways to counter the rising cost of living in South Africa. Kaya FM
GUEST - Miyelani Holeni Group Chief Advisor at Ntiyiso Consulting Group
The underspending of grant allocations, accumulating customer and municipal debt, and inadequate progress in revenue collection across South Africa’s 257 municipalities remain a cause of concern for the National Treasury. This was outlined by the Treasury discussing the recently released Local Government Revenue and Expenditure report for the second quarter of the 2023/24 financial year (up until 31 December 2023).
Municipal spending on both operating and capital budgets accounted for 46.3%, or R283.5 billion, of the total approved expenditure budget of R612 billion. Revenue from billing and other sources reached 50.3%, or R310.9 billion, of the total approved revenue budget of R618.5 billion. Municipalities also set aside R154.5 billion for salaries and wages. This marks a R7.9 billion, or 5.4%, rise from the R146.6 billion budget allocated for the 2022/23 municipal financial
year. By 31 December 2023, R72.8 billion, or 47.2% of the allocated budget for salaries, had been used. Kaya FM
GUEST - Boniwe Dunster – HR Executive: Lanseria International Airport
Feeling stuck in your career can be disheartening, but it's important to remember that you have the power to break free from this stagnant phase and reignite your professional growth. Here are some common reasons why careers may stall and actionable strategies to get unstuck: Kaya FM
GUEST - Victor Kgomoeswana - Africa expert
Nigeria is currently experiencing its worst economic crisis in a generation, leading to widespread hardship and anger. A litre of petrol costs more than three times what it did nine months ago, while the price of the staple food, rice, has more than doubled in the past year. These two figures highlight the difficulties that many Nigerians are facing as wages have not kept up with the rising cost of living.
Like many nations, Nigeria has experienced economic shocks from beyond its shores in recent years, but there are also issues specific to the country, partly driven by the reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu when he took office last May. Kaya FM
GUEST – Leila Fourie - JSE Group CEO
The JSE delivered a strong revenue performance in 2023, with growth of 12.2% in headline earnings per share (HEPS) and return on equity of 19.4% in line with long-term targets. JSE Group CEO, Leila Fourie joins us to unpack their latest results. Kaya FM
Leading South African thermal coal exporter, Thungela Resources' profit dropped 73% to R4.97 billion in 2023 due to a significant decline in benchmark coal prices and continued poor performance of Transnet Freight Rail. Thungela Resources CEO, July Ndlovu joins us. Kaya FM
GUEST – Abbey Witbooi - Chairperson of the Board of Sci-Bono Discovery Centre
The Be Entrepreneurial programme aims to turn budding entrepreneurs into employment creators of the future The Sci-Bono Discovery Centre is acting to stimulate entrepreneurship in young people, teaching the skills youngsters need to start and run successful businesses, and to reduce the record-high rate of unemployment in South Africa. In partnership with the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE), Sci-Bono is taking the JA Entrepreneurship multi-certification programme into select Gauteng schools where 1 230 Grade 8 to 11 learners will attend the programme as an extramural subject. Kaya FM
GUEST - Motshabi Nomvethe, Head of Technical Marketing, Professional Provident Society
IS SITTING THE NEW HEALTH EPIDEMIC?
For many people, work means hours and hours of sitting, with few opportunities to take a break or go for a walk. According to Yale Medicine, while this may be a normal part of adult life, it is becoming a growing concern among researchers1. What’s more is that since the COVID-19 pandemic, some research estimates that the shift to remote working has aged our bodies by about 10 to 15 years, with negative impact ranging from eye strain to back pain. Ergonomically, remote work has resulted in many people working from a kitchen table, on the couch, in bed or in a space that might be damaging to their posture.
New studies have also found that people who work remotely are spending the time they used to use travelling to and from work, to work even more3. Researchers from the National Bureau of Economic Research estimate that people who work from home now use 40% of the time they save on commuting to do added work.
What’s more, the Royal Society for Public Health found that many people who switched to remote working as a result of COVID-19 were exercising less, developing musculoskeletal problems and experiencing disturbed sleep.
Jobs that require long periods of sitting, lack of exercise and dependence on technology and devices have all added to people becoming far more sedentary than in previous decades, with many of us spending hours of our days sitting. In fact, it is estimated that one-third of the global population aged 15 years and older engages in insufficient physical activities, which affects our health5. Research from the British Heart Foundation found that much of the British population spend around 67 hours a week sitting down, making them inactive for up to three out of seven days. Kaya FM
GUEST - Maya Fisher-French is a financial journalist and author at Maya on Money
Investing in property can be a great investment but be sure that you understand the risks. I recently ran a survey on social media to understand what asset classes people invest in. The majority of women prefer property over investments such as unit trusts or exchange-traded funds which are related to the stock market.
One of the reasons people – especially women – invest in property is that they believe it is less risky than investing in market-related investments. They feel that property is tangible; they can see it and touch it, and they understand how it works. While property can be a viable investment, it is incorrect to believe that an investment property is less risky than a diversified portfolio of shares. It is also not a passive source of income. It requires a lot of management. Kaya FM
GUEST – Zuko Godlimpi, deputy chair of the ANC’s economic transformation committee AND Johann Els, Chief Economist at Old Mutual
South Africa’s ruling ANC will forge ahead with plans to revive an apartheid-era rule compelling pension funds to plough money into certain government-approved investments, assuming it retains power in upcoming elections. Kaya FM
GUEST - Riaan Koppeschaar - Exxaro's Finance director
South African coal miner Exxaro Resources reported a 17% drop in revenue to R38.7-billion compared with 2022. Exxaro's Finance director, Riaan Koppeschaar joins us to unpack their latest results. Kaya FM
GUEST – Sim Tshabalala – Standard Bank Group CEO
Africa's largest lender by assets Standard Bank recorded headline earnings of R4.2 billion for the year to end-December 2023, up 27% from the prior year. Standard Bank Group CEO, Sim Tshabalala joins us to unpack their latest results. Kaya FM
GUEST – Wesley Diphoko is the Editor-In-Chief of the Fast Company (SA)
magazine.
WHEN the Constitutional Court declared that Nkosana Makate should be paid what is due to him, little did we
know it would take such a long time to get a final decision on payment. How did we get to this point? Could this have been avoided from the beginning? Kaya FM
GUEST
- Lebohang Tsinyane – Founder of The Modern Us
The Modern Us is a lifestyle brand that focuses on enabling people to discover more and enable them to do
more through style. The Modern Us (Pty) Ltd is a fully black owned company that specializes in sectors like arts, brand management, entertainment, environment and fashion. Kaya FM
GUEST - Jaco van Jaarsveldt, Head of Commercial Strategy and Innovation
at Experian Africa
Mid-to-high income South African households are finding it increasingly difficult to repay debt and continue
to make use of their credit cards. This is according to the Experian Consumer Default Index (CDIx) for Q4 of 2023.
The CDIx measures the rolling default behaviour of South African consumers with home loans, vehicle loans,
personal loans, credit cards and retail loan accounts. Data shows that all product-specific CDIx metrics changed for the worse year-on-year, from 3.97 to 4.68 - a change of 18%. Kaya FM
GUEST – Eerik Oja - Planet42 Chief Executive Officer and co-founder
Planet42 said it raised local-currency debt and equity funding from Standard Bank Group to help the South
Africa-focused rent-to-buy startup repay costly euro-denominated loans. The Naspers-backed firm, which has raised about $150 million to date, got R300 million ($16 million) of funding from Standard Bank, Africa’s biggest lender by assets, according to Planet42
Chief Executive Officer and co-founder Eerik Oja. “We have had no rand-based debt so far, and that is obviously super-expensive for a business operating in South Africa,” Oja said in an interview. “This is a first step to a bigger strategic partnership for
us with Standard Bank,” as the startup ramps up auto loans where traditional banks usually cannot finance certain individuals because of regulations, he said. Kaya FM
GUEST –
Guy Leitch – Aviation Analyst
The deal to sell 51% of SAA to the Takatso consortium is off, Minister of Public Enterprises Pravin Gordhan announced on Wednesday.
The deal, which was first agreed in June 2021, has faced numerous obstacles. Among them has been the need to revalue the assets of SAA due to the lengthy time between the original agreement and the final agreement on the sale of shares. Kaya FM
GUEST –
Estienne de Klerk - Growthpoint Properties SA CEO
Growthpoint Properties Limited (JSE: GRT) reported robust operational results across its local and international
investments for the six-month period ended 31 December 2023, with a stellar performance from the V&A Waterfront and its South African portfolio showing stable and steadily improving property metrics.
The solid operational performances produced by the underlying portfolios of Growthpoint’s various investments
were, however, overshadowed by higher interest rates globally, which presented significant downside given their impact on property values, equity and debt markets, and capitalisation and discount rates, affecting the financial performance of Growthpoint’s
direct and indirect investments. Growthpoint reported total property assets down 1.1% during the period to R177.9bn. Kaya FM
GUEST - Queen Malobane, Provincial General Manager: Gauteng at Metropolitan.
It’s a tale that’s old as time: penniless woman meets wealthy man, they fall in love, and the rest, as they say, is history. In fact, it’s the very premise of rags-to-riches stories such as Pretty Woman, Maid in Manhattan, even Cinderella…and the list goes on.
While these storylines have been traditionally rooted in a ‘white knight’ dynamic with a happy ending, what they never show are the inevitable complications and hard conversations that arise when dating someone who is out of your financial league.
What happens when it comes to dividing up the household expenses? Or when one person in the relationship is expected to support the other’s financially challenged family members or dependents? “In real life, these are the kinds of situations that arise if one person in a relationship earns significantly more than the other,” says Queen Malobane, Provincial General Manager: Gauteng at Metropolitan. Kaya FM
GUEST - Traxtion Group CEO - James Holley
Traxtion Group, Africa's biggest private railway operator, is "extremely confident" it will invest in SA this year, saying it is encouraged by the structural reforms rolled out by the government. Speaking at the Investment Forum in Sandton on Tuesday, its CEO, James Holley, said the private sector and the government were strongly incentivised to get SA's rail system working efficiently, given the sheer cost of the dysfunction for the economy. But he also cautioned that investments in trains took time, saying it would be about 24 months before any new rolling stock was brought into SA. Holley was responding to questions posed to him by Stanlib chief economic Kevin Lings during a panel discussion at the investment conference. Citing the government's structural reforms rolled out over the past three years, Holley said he was encouraged by such developments as the economic reconstruction and recovery plan, SA's national rail policy and the private sector participation framework for rail, as well as the freight logistics road map. Kaya FM
GUEST – Sean Wibberley – HomeChoice International CEO
Key Highlights:
- Revenue firm at R3.7 billion
- Operating profit up 28% to R619 million
- Fintech revenue up 31% to R1.9 billion
- Fintech profit before tax up 27% to R426 million
- Retail sales 24% lower at R1.2 billion
- Cash collections up 18% to R8.5 billion
- Headline earnings per share up 7.2% to 309.3 cents
- Final dividend declared of 83 cents per share, up 7.8% Kaya FM
GUEST – Celiwe Ross, Director: Public Affairs at Old Mutual
Old Mutual apologises for the manner in which they have addressed the public outcry on social media. The insurer says that their reluctance to engage and debate on X stems from the complexities of the case and their duty to protect the personal information of the individuals involved. Kaya FM
GUEST – Jan Vermuelen, mybroadband editor
A ransomware gang claiming responsibility for the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC)
hack says they’ve had access to the agency’s systems since 2021. The CIPC is an agency inside the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition where companies, co-operatives, and intellectual property is registered.
The hackers contacted MyBroadband after the CIPC issued a press statement on Friday claiming that its “firewall
and data protection systems” helped mitigate a recent data breach. According to one of the group’s representatives, this is completely false. They said the CIPC has tried to cover up the fact that it was breached almost three years ago and did nothing to address
its weak security. Kaya FM
GUEST - PSC Commissioner Anele Gxoyiya
The Public Service Commission says the late payment of suppliers remains a major problem at national government
level.
It revealed this in its quarterly bulletin. The commission says by the end of the second quarter of last
year 33 000 invoices worth R1-billion had not been paid within the prescribed 30-day period. Kaya FM
GUEST - Sashin Naidoo - Associate at Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr
From 1 March, the new earnings threshold was adjusted to R241 110.59 a year (about R20 093 a month), in
terms of a notice published in the Government Gazette on 20 February. The previous threshold was R224 080.48 a year (about R18 673 a month). In other words, the threshold has been increased by R17 030.11, or 7.59%. Employees who earn between R224 080.48 and
R241 110.59 a year will join the ranks of those who benefit from certain statutory provisions. “Earnings” are defined as regular annual remuneration before deductions (for income tax, a retirement fund, a medical scheme, and “similar payments”) but exclude
contributions made by an employer on behalf of an employee. Remuneration also excludes subsistence and transport allowances, achievement awards and payment for overtime worked. Kaya FM
GUEST – Simon Brown – Founder of JustOneLap
Shoprite’s latest financial results show it continues to win market share, while Pick n Pay struggles to
show real growth. To put Pick n Pay’s financial results into perspective, Simon Brown compared it to Shoprite’s comparable performance. Kaya FM
GUEST – Maurice Madiba - Head of Primary markets at the JSE
The world’s biggest cryptocurrency exchange Binance is halting operations in Nigeria’s naira currency as
the government puts cryptobusinesses under increasing scrutiny. The decision came after authorities in Africa’s biggest economy-imposed restrictions on cryptocurrency exchanges as part of attempts to halt the sliding value of the local currency. Nigeria’s
central bank governor, Olayemi Cardoso, said at the end of last month that cryptocurrency exchanges were conduits for money laundering. Kaya FM
GUEST – Vuyolwethu Skolo - Case Assessment Manager in the Life Division
of the National Financial Ombud Scheme
Insurance and financial institution Old Mutual has been facing a public relations nightmare after a user’s post on social media
sparked outrage over the company allegedly defying a court order. Case Assessment Manager in the Life Division of the National Financial Ombud Scheme, Vuyo Skolo unpacks the consumer rights regarding insurance contracts which include:
Receive clear and accurate information about insurance products.
Be provided with all policy details, including coverage, exclusions, and premiums.
Utilise a 31-day cooling-off period to cancel the policy without penalties.
Refer disputes to the Ombudsman for Long-Term Insurance or Short-Term Insurance Ombudsman if not resolved by the
company.
Receive entitled benefits even if the product is withdrawn from the market later. Kaya FM
GUEST – Botlhale Tshetlo – Clinical Trichologist and founder of Hairtural Studio
Tshetlo owns Hairtural Studio, a natural hair salon based in Bryanston, Johannesburg, that does not use combs, hair dye or heat on its clients’ hair. “We specialise 100% in natural hair. The vision of the brand is about being free, free to be. It’s about black consumers having the freedom to celebrate and enjoy the uniqueness of their natural hair – and not have it benchmarked against western standards of what beautiful hair is,” says Tshetlo.
She came up with the idea of her hair salon when she was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. This is a disease that can cause joint pain and damage throughout the body. Kaya FM
GUEST – Abigail Mukhuba – SANLAM Group CFO
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
The group achieved superior results across all the key metrics it uses to measure its performance.
Highlights included:
1. Net result from financial services totalled R12,4 billion, a record achievement, and 21% higher on a per share basis;
2. The life insurance portfolio grew earnings by 19%, general insurance by 21%, investment management by 14% and credit and structuring by 29%;
3. New business volumes remained solid at just under R400 billion, also a record high, with robust sales growth across all lines of business; and
4. Total net client cash flows remained solid despite the challenging consumer environment. Kaya FM
Restaurant franchisor Spur Corporation, owner of brands including Spur Steak Ranches, Rocomamas and Panarottis, in MAY 2022 appointed Vuyo Henda as its new chief marketing officer. Henda grows the already strong female representation in the company's executive team and brings with her an impressive track-record in marketing, both locally and globally in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry.
Henda holds a Bachelor of Business Science (Finance) degree from the University of Cape Town, and boasts more than 10 years' business experience, with her most recent role leading the Foods business for Southern Africa at Unilever.
She joined the FMCG giant in 2009 and has worked in various roles across customer development and marketing. Henda also spent some time abroad working on the biggest Unilever Food brand, Knorr. Since her return from London, she has a built upon her expertise in foods within FMCG, including working on the development of a plant-based strategy. Kaya FM
GUEST – Guy Leitch – Aviation Analyst
Safair, which has captured 60% of the domestic air travel market and is making inroads into the region, is under investigation for contravening its licence conditions requiring a majority local shareholding. Safair is the parent company to South Africa's low-cost passenger airline, FlySafair.
SAA-TAKATSO DEAL IS BEING RENEGOTIATED
The government’s controversial sale of 51% of South African Airways (SAA) to the Takatso Consortium concluded in 2021 for R51 is being renegotiated, Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan disclosed at a hastily convened media briefing in Cape Town on Wednesday. Kaya FM
GUEST – Guy Leitch – Aviation Analyst
Safair, which has captured 60% of the domestic air travel market and is making inroads into the region, is under investigation for contravening its licence conditions requiring a majority local shareholding. Safair is the parent company to South Africa's low-cost passenger airline, FlySafair.
SAA-TAKATSO DEAL IS BEING RENEGOTIATED
The government’s controversial sale of 51% of South African Airways (SAA) to the Takatso Consortium concluded in 2021 for R51 is being renegotiated, Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan disclosed at a hastily convened media briefing in Cape Town on Wednesday. Kaya FM
GUEST – Luvuyo Mkontwana - TNPA (Transnet National Port Authority) General Manager, Special Projects
Transnet SOC Ltd. (Transnet) is implementing key measures to improve the performance of local ports. This is part of the overall Transnet Recovery Plan, which is being implemented to improve the operational and financial
performance of the company. Kaya FM
GUEST – Jill Snijman - Marketing Manager – L’Oréal Luxury South Africa
Write Your Future campaign launched in South Africa last month. The local campaign is spearheaded by a pilot project, which launched in Mashite, Limpopo on 20 September, with plans to roll out countrywide over the next few years. Aimed at enabling high-potential women aged between 18 and 25 through digital education, Write Your Future is being delivered in partnership with Social Coding, a non-profit company (NPC) which helps under-resourced communities to leverage technology for a better future.
First launched in 2017, the Lancôme Write Your Future, brand social responsibility programme has empowered more than 150,000 young women around the world. These include the beneficiaries of the Write Your Future Scholarship Fund as well as the beneficiaries of the many learning, entrepreneurship and mentorship programmes funded by Lancôme. Kaya FM
GUEST - Palesa Maseko - Director & Founder of PMA incorporated
Palesa Maseko is the founder and director of the PMA incorporated, a Johannesburg based law firm providing specialist legal advice in Commercial Litigation, Entertainment Law & Employment Law.
PMA provides a full film and entertainment law offering for retainer clients, which extends to non-litigious labour and employment law advice. Kaya FM
GUEST - Katia Ribeiro – Owner of Bella Trends
Bella Trends, their mission is to uplift and support Women in Business, providing them with the tools and resources they need to thrive in this competitive industry.
Bella Trends is a home away from home a clean safe environment that caters for all your needs Kaya FM
GUEST – Siobhan Redford, an economist at Rand Merchant Bank
Following a two-point decline in the fourth quarter of 2023, the RMB/BER Business Confidence Index (BCI) ticked down by another point to reach 30 in the first quarter of 2024. This means that seven out of ten survey respondents are unsatisfied with prevailing business conditions. Taking a slightly longer perspective shows a concerning picture as less than four out of ten survey respondents were satisfied with prevailing business conditions for seven consecutive quarters. Business confidence was, again, largely unchanged among building contractors and wholesalers. Declines in sentiment in the retail and manufacturing sectors outweighed a ten-point improvement among new vehicle dealers. Kaya FM
GUEST – Roy Havemann is Principal: Financial Sector Policy and Public Economics at Krutham (previously Intellidex).
Over the past decade, the interest rate that South Africa pays on its debt has consistently been above the economic growth rate. Mathematically, this means that debt grows as a percentage
of GDP. It becomes a “vicious circle”. Higher debt makes investors and ratings agencies nervous, meaning the interest rate they are prepared to pay for our debt rises. This increases borrowing costs and hurts investment spending, making fiscal consolidation
(and counter-cyclical fiscal policy) more and more difficult, making the fiscal position worse and raising the sovereign risk premium.
The interest rate rises again and the cycle continues. The National Treasury is keenly aware of this — and of the trade-off between services and fiscal consolidation. The Budget Review
put it plainly: “The 2024 Budget balances development and sustainable public finances. In the context of persistently low economic growth, the government will protect critical services, support economic growth through reforms and public investment, and stabilise
public debt… Rapid growth in debt-service costs chokes the economy and the public finances. The government is staying the course to narrow the budget deficit and stabilise debt. This year, for the first time since 2008/09, the government will achieve a primary
budget surplus. Debt will stabilise in 2025/26.” Kaya FM
GUEST – Sunette Mulder, senior policy adviser at ASISA
Local Collective Investment Schemes (CIS), commonly known as unit trusts, grew assets under management (AUM) to almost R3.5 trillion by end-2023, a new record for the industry.
That represents a more than 11% year-on-year growth in assets from the R3.14 trillion recorded at the end of December 2022, according to the Association for Savings and Investment SA (Asisa) latest quarterly statistics on Tuesday.
Sunette Mulder, senior policy adviser at Asisa, attributed the asset growth to net inflows of R110 billion over the 12 months to end-2023 as well as market performance, given
that the JSE all-share index delivered a return of 9.3% over the period. Kaya FM
GUEST - John Jack, CEO of Galetti Corporate Real Estate
Badly-run municipalities do more than just annoy residents and lead to rubbish pile-ups – they can also be a slippery slope to wide-scale economic decline. For urban centres in particular, the signs of a badly run municipality soon become impossible to ignore, symptomatic of a loss of confidence in the economic viability of the area and fears that crime rates will rise as opportunists capitalise on vacant buildings, “The stark contrast between Cape Town and Durban’s CBDs illustrate the detrimental impact that inadequate service delivery can have on surrounding commercial real estate businesses,” shares John Jack, CEO of Galetti Corporate Real Estate. “While there is still a significant amount of economic potential in the city, sustained efforts will be needed to restore Durban to a thriving and safe hub for businesses and consumers alike.” Kaya FM
GUEST – Pieter Engelbrecht, Shoprite Chief Executive Officer:
Key information
Double-digit growth sees half year sales reaching R121 billion – continuing
operations ·
Group sale of merchandise increased by 13.9% to R121.1 billion
Supermarkets RSA sale of merchandise increased by 14.6% to R97.5 billion
Diluted headline earnings per share (DHEPS) increased by 7.6% to 621.4 cents
(H1 2023: 577.5 cents)
Interim dividend per share increased by 7.7% to 267 cents (H1 2023: 248 cents)
The Group opened a net number of 369 stores during the past 12 months
The Group’s supermarket operations created 2 202 new jobs over
the six months Kaya FM
GUEST – Mfundo Nkuhlu - Nedbank chief operating officer
Nedbank's share price lifted more than 4% at one point on Tuesday after it raised its final dividend almost
a fifth on the back of strong earnings growth. The bank reported an 11% rise in headline earnings to R15.7 billion in the year to end-December, underpinned by robust revenue growth and prudent expense management.
With the group's return on equity (ROE) rising a percentage point to 15.1% for the year, the group upped
its final dividend by 18% to R10.22 per share, taking the total to R18.93. Kaya FM
GUEST – Cobus Loubser - Curro Holdings CEO
Curro has reported strong growth in revenue and profitability for the year ending 31 December 2023, with
1,307 more learners in 2023 compared to the previous year.
In its financial report for the 2023 financial year, Curro Holdings reported a year of solid growth, with
recurring headline earnings up by 29% to R426 million (2022: R330 million). Kaya FM
GUEST - Chris Charter, Director in the Competition practice area at Cliffe
Dekker Hofmeyr (CDH)
South Africa's Competition Commission has initiated the Media and Digital Platforms Market Inquiry (MDPMI),
aiming to scrutinize the influence of digital platforms on the nation's media landscape. With over 50 stakeholders, ranging from mainstream to community media and digital giants like Google and Facebook, set to partake, the hearings represent a pivotal moment
for the media industry. Key organizations such as the South African National Editors Forum and major publishers like Media24 and Arena Holdings have confirmed their participation, setting the stage for a comprehensive evaluation of digital platforms' impact
on media competition and content distribution. Kaya FM
GUEST - Andrew Fulton, Director at Eighty20
The South African population has grown significantly over the last 10 years, with the latest Census counting
62 027 503 people across 17.8-million households. This growth, however, has come with noteworthy changes in household dynamics, marriage behaviour and ultimately birth rates across different segments of South Africa’s population.
With February being the month of love, Eighty20, South Africa’s leading consumer analytics and research business,
has unpacked the ‘by-products’ of love – in essence the structure of families and their households. There are several factors that have influenced and shaped households over time: lowered birth rates, reduction in household size as well as changes in both
demographics and family structure. Kaya FM
GUEST – Kagiso Lebethe - Senior Employee Relations Specialist
Financial constraints not an excuse for failing to promote employees already recommended for promotion Employees
have different reasons for wishing to be promoted. They want the increased remuneration that goes with it, they want the status, the feeling of success and recognition and/or the challenge of the higher level responsibility. Despite these aspirations, employees
do not have an unfettered and automatic right to be promoted. Were such an automatic right to exist this would place an unfair and impossible burden on employers. However, where certain circumstances exist employees may have a legal right to be promoted. Kaya FM
GUEST – Andiswa Bata, SME Segment Head at FNB
Accessing the right funding and financing, at the right time, can mean the difference between starting up,
staying open, or shutting down. “The economy is facing a challenging business environment, with slow global growth, economic volatility, and ongoing power supply issues. This means that many businesses in South Africa are still trying to find their financial
footing.
This is especially true for small businesses, which play such an important role in the local economy. That’s
where good credit comes in - as access to the right type of funding and finance can help SMEs grow, innovate, and create jobs,” says Andiswa Bata, SME Segment Head at FNB. “One of the biggest challenges for SMEs is getting the correct form of funding,” adds
Bata as she unpacks practices that small business owners can proactively adopt to enhance an application to a funder. Kaya FM
GUEST – Reana Steyn - Lead Ombud for the Banking Division
The newly-formed National Financial Ombud Scheme (NFO) today announced the commencement of operations as
a single, one-stop, all-inone dispute resolution service made up of the four (4) former existing services -the Ombudsman for Banking Services (OBS); the Credit Ombud (CO); the Ombudsman for Long-Term Insurance (OLTI); and the Ombudsman for Short-Term Insurance
(OSTI).
The Ombud Council, granted the NFO recognition (under section 194 of the Financial Sector Regulation Act,
9 of 2017 (FSR Act), as an industry ombud scheme on 23 February 2024. Complaints will be accepted from 1 March 2024. All the services and assistance previously provided to individuals and companies by the previous Ombud schemes will now be available through
the newly established NFO, at no cost to consumers. The amalgamation to form the NFO is expected to leverage the success of their predecessors while providing a streamlined, co-ordinated, and less confusing alternate dispute resolution framework for financial
customers. Kaya FM
GUEST – Paul Cruickshank. Chief Executive Officer of RCL Foods
RCL will unbundle its Rainbow Chicken business and list it on the Johannesburg stock exchange as part of
a strategic review, the food producer said on Monday as it reported half-year earnings growth of 52.6%. RCL, which owns brands such as Selati sugar, Ouma rusks and Yum Yum peanut butter, has been assessing whether its portfolio delivers sustainable earnings
and value for shareholders. Kaya FM
GUEST - Linda Mabhena-Olagunju
DLO Energy Resources Group, a wholly Black female owned renewable energy company, is set to host the DLO AFRICA POWER ROUNDTABLE 2024 on 5 March 2024 in partnership with ABSA Bank. The roundtable aims to address critical challenges hindering the participation of Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in South Africa's Just Energy Transition.
As the just energy transition gains momentum, it is important that African SMMEs do not get left behind, particularly those that have benefited from the hydrocarbon sector. Substantial focus has been placed on the just energy transition and funding of decarbonisation efforts, however, there has been a lack of attention with respect to how SMMEs can transition their companies to service the clean energy sector.
Under the current status, SMMEs face difficulties accessing funding and an enabling environment crucial for their growth. These challenges are intrinsically linked to the need for skills development and transitioning at the same pace as the industry evolves. Kaya FM
THE RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA (RASA) has issued an urgent call for DSTV to review the price increases of up to 50% and an unannounced change for restaurant subscribers ahead of the screening of the much-anticipated Rugby World Cup. RASA CEO Wendy Alberts says the price hikes will make it unaffordable for the hospitality industry to screen major sporting events to their patrons Kaya FM
GUEST - Mrs Mmutla Phalafala – Founder of 1000 Concepts
1000 Concepts is a boutique architecture and design firm offering bespoke solutions from the first brick laid in the foundation, to the day you first step foot in your new space. From hostels to warehouses to modern house design, we complete each project with expert craftsmanship and laser-like attention to detail, always going above and beyond to surpass our clients’ expectations. Kaya FM
GUEST - Ziphozonke Majola - TV Producer, Director & Founder of Sothar Pictures
The world of entertainment is constantly evolving, and production companies play a crucial role in bringing creative ideas to life. Production companies are responsible for creating film, television, and digital content, which vary in terms of budgets and revenue models.
To make money, these companies must navigate complex financing structures, secure investment sources, and employ various strategies to ensure their projects generate profits.
TV Producer, Director & Founder of Sothar Pictures, Zipho Majola joins us to unpack this further. Kaya FM
GUEST - Gavin Kelly - Road Freight Association (RFA) CEO
The increase in fuel prices for September will force transporters to increase their pricing to cover the higher diesel costs, member organisation Road Freight Association (RFA) CEO Gavin Kelly says. The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy has announced that the diesel price will increase by R2.76 a litre for September.
That will raise inland pump prices to R23.05 and R23.28, respectively. The Central Energy Fund attributed the price hikes to rising international fuel prices and the weakened rand. Kelly informs that these prices were last seen in June 2022, the first in a four-month climb that saw diesel prices reach heights of R25.74 in November 2022. July 2022 had also reached R25/ℓ. Road freight transporters use both petrol and diesel – but diesel is the main fuel in most road operations, Kelly points out. Kaya FM
GUEST – Siobhan Redford - RMB's Economist
Although business confidence edged higher in the third quarter of 2023 thanks to reduced load shedding over the period – the country is back in the throes of stage 6 load shedding, while other businesses are concerned about risks of social unrest, as optimism remains very weak.
This is according to the latest RMB/BER Business Confidence Index (BCI), which ticked higher to 33 in Q3 2023 from 27 in the second quarter. Although higher, sentiment is still very weak, with the current level of the index suggesting that two-thirds of respondents are still dissatisfied with prevailing business conditions.
The third quarter survey was conducted by the BER between 16 August and 31 August 2023. The survey covered 1,050 senior executives in the building, manufacturing, retail, wholesale, and motor trade sectors. “The challenges posed by relatively high interest rates, the resultant strain on consumers, and social unrest meant that business activity remained constrained,” said the Bureau for Economic Research (BER). Kaya FM
In a legal dispute that might reshape how debit order reversals are governed in SA, insurance group Clientele wants to force banks to give it an opportunity to provide proof of a valid mandate before reversing debit orders. This as the JSE-listed insurer battles to contain a rise in debit order reversals from its client base.
The financial services group has dragged the Payments Association of SA (PASA) to court seeking an order compelling banks not to unilaterally reverse lawful debit orders. PASA, the country’s payment system management body recognised by the central bank, has more than 20 members including SA’s biggest banks; Absa, Nedbank, Capitec, Standard Bank, FirstRand and Investec. Kaya FM
GUEST - Riaan Singh, PwC South Africa Experience Consulting and Customer Transformation Leader
South African retailers have successfully driven positive consumer perceptions through special offers and affordable product promotions, but their customer service capabilities are leaving much to be desired. This is according to the South African Retail Sentiment Index, conducted by DataEQ in collaboration with PwC South Africa, which measures Net Sentiment across three identified customer satisfaction drivers: pricing, customer service, and product offering Kaya FM
Stats SA’s Statistician-General, Risenga Maluleke joins host of KAYABiz, Gugulethu Mfuphi to have an in-depth analysis of SA's economy. Kaya FM
GUEST - The Finance Ghost – Retail Analyst
South Africa’s biggest retailer, Shoprite, has recorded a strong financial performance despite spending over R1.3 billion on diesel to curb load shedding. In its financial results for the 52 weeks that ended 2 July 2023, the group grew sales by 16.9% to R215 billion, which its supermarkets in South Africa have underpinned. Checkers and Checkers Hyper also saw 18.0% sales growth, whilst Checkers Sixty60 increased sales by 81.5%.
The on-demand grocery delivery app also expanded its services from 300 stores in 2022 to 466 stores in 2023. The low prices and affordability at Shoprite and Usave also resulted in sales growth of 15.6%. Overall, the group’s trading profit also increased by 5.7%, which resulted in a trading margin of 5.5% (restated 2022: 6.1%) Kaya FM
GUEST – Ernest North, co-founder of Naked Insurance
Fire isn’t top of mind for South Africans when they buy insurance because the chances of becoming a victim are relatively low. But although fires aren’t as common as burst geysers, burglaries, or electronics getting fried by power surges, the losses can be devastating. The risks are also rising due to factors such as load shedding, alternative power installations, as well as hotter and drier weather in some parts of the country.
Unfortunately, it’s often only after they experience a fire-related loss that homeowners discover that their insurance doesn’t give them as much cover as they’d hoped for. This is especially true for owners of sectional title properties. Kaya FM
GUEST - Ans Gerber - Head of Data Insights at Experian Africa
According to the latest Experian Consumer Default Index (CDIx) for Q2, South African women account for half of the total amount of consumers on the credit bureau. This means that in terms of being credit active, women are fairly represented in the credit economy.
From a credit exposure perspective however, only R0.8 trillion out of the full R2.18 trillion in outstanding debt is associated with women. Kaya FM
GUEST - Advaita Naidoo, Africa MD at Jack Hammer
It’s not uncommon for individuals to feel stuck in a rut in their professional lives. Despite putting in the work and the hours, they may still not see the progress or growth they desire. This feeling of stagnation can leave them frustrated and disheartened, particularly if they believe they have been doing everything by the book.
More often than not, the problem isn’t with their effort or dedication, but rather with certain beliefs or behaviours that have become ingrained in their professional lives, a leadership expert says. Kaya FM
GUEST - Daryl Coker - Advisory Partner at Citadel
For many South African families, talking about wealth and securing it across generations can still be a challenge. International research suggests that family wealth rarely lasts more than three generations, because families don’t talk about money or inheritances, and don’t work out a family roadmap to protect intergenerational wealth
Advisory Partner at Citadel, Daryl Coker, encourages families to have open, age-appropriate conversations to promote financial literacy and empower children to learn different money management strategies from an early age. Kaya FM
GUEST - Peter Major, director of mining at Modern Corporate Solutions
Troubled state-owned rail and ports operator Transnet swung to a full-year loss of R5.7 billion for the year ended 31 March 2023, significantly down from a profit of R5 billion for the previous year.
The group blamed lower rail volumes, which it said were largely affected by torrential rains in KwaZulu-Natal province during the first half of 2022 that led to severe floods. It also blamed operational inefficiencies as well as hefty operating expenses amid an inflationary trading environment. Kaya FM
GUEST – Peter Moyo – Former Old Mutual CEO and Tabby Tsengiwe, GM of Public Affairs Sustainability at Old Mutual
The highest court in the land, the Constitutional Court (ConCourt) has finally put an end to the dispute between Old Mutual and its former CEO Peter Moyo, some four years later, saying that Moyo’s application must be refused as it “does not engage its jurisdiction”
We look back at how the past four years has been with both our guests. Kaya FM
GUEST - Paul Cruickshank - Chief Executive Officer of RCL Foods
RCL Foods, which is majority-owned by Johann Rupert's Remgro, reported that full-year earnings growth fell by more than 40% as it battled input costs in its poultry business and saw load shedding severely hit production in its pet food segment.
The company said it had "weathered a tremendously difficult 12 months" with unrecovered cost pressure in its Rainbow Chicken business and the impact of load shedding casting a pall over the overall performance.
Specifically, within the Rainbow unit, higher revenue driven by both higher volumes and prices were not enough to offset the "severe impacts of high feed costs, failing municipal infrastructure and load shedding", resulting in a 74.9% decline in underlying earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation. Kaya FM
GUEST – Christopher Williams, Sales Engineer for Commercial Buildings at Eaton South Africa
Christopher William of Eaton South Africa joins KAYABiz host, Gugulethu Mfuphi to unpack fundamental fire safety measures that property owners show know. Kaya FM
GUEST – Angela Rivers, General Manager: Johannesburg Property Owners and Managers Association (JPOMA)
The City of Johannesburg mothballed a task team to clean up the 80 Albert Street building, where 74 people perished in an inner-city blaze. The building, owned by the City, is one of 57 hijacked buildings that the Johannesburg Property Owners and Managers Association (JPOMA) has identified and repeatedly lobbied the City to act on. However, who is behind these hijacks? Kaya FM
Janice has a deep and diverse investment background spanning over 25 years with highly regarded financial institutions in South Africa and London, including 10 years with Prudential Capital (part of Prudential plc) as Director, Principal Finance. On her return to SA in 2013, Janice made a conscious decision to apply her financial and investment skills into an environment with greater focus on social and environmental impact as well as financial return. Kaya FM
GUEST - Tony Healy - Labour Consultant
Listed and state-owned companies will, in the future, have to disclose the pay gap between the highest and lowest-paid as well as the average and median pay of all employees, according to amendments to the Companies Act, which have been introduced into Parliament.
This is in addition to the disclosure of director pay, which is already a standing requirement of the act. On Tuesday, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Ebrahim Patel briefed the Portfolio Committee on Trade, Industry and Competition on proposed amendments to the act. The committee will hold public hearings on the proposed changes in October. Kaya FM
GUEST – Renai Moothilal – CEO of National Association of Automotive Component & Allied Manufacturers (Naacam)
NAACAM's Renai Moothilal announced that sixteen exhibitors at this year's conference pledged over R4.8 billion in investment. Trade and Industry Minister Ebrahim Patel, who delivered a keynote address at the event in Tshwane today, says investment is the lifeblood of growth ...
Today marked the last day of the two-day NAACAM conference which is part of the biennial NAACAM Show gathering that brings together local and international automotive manufacturing experts, professionals, and enthusiasts to advance knowledge and foster collaboration within the local automotive components sector through insightful discussions and exhibits that showcase the depth of South Africa’s manufacturing capability in the key part of the country’s industrial economy. Kaya FM
GUEST - Wayne Duvenage – CEO of OUTA
South Africa’s government intends to shut down the Department of Public Enterprises, which oversees seven of the biggest state companies, when a new administration takes office after elections in about a year’s time.
President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the closure of the department in his state-of-the-nation address in February, in accordance with a resolution taken by the ruling African National Congress. Power utility Eskom, port and freight-rail operator Transnet and the other companies will then fall under direct control of their line ministries. Kaya FM
GUEST - Gugu Mtetwa, Santam COO
Santam, South Africa’s largest short-term insurer, recorded an overall solid financial performance for the six months to 30 June 2023, with the group’s conventional insurance business achieving Gross Written Premium (GWP) growth of 7% and a net underwriting margin of 3.8% (June 2022: 3.0%).
Excluding large one-off items, an underwriting margin of 7.5% was achieved, well above the comparable 5.6% for the first six-month period in 2022. For the period under review, investment market conditions were more favourable than the first half of 2022, which together with an outperformance of benchmarks, contributed to a return on insurance funds of 2.2% of net earned premiums (June 2022: 0.2%). Kaya FM
GUEST – Imre Nagy – CEO of the Independent Regulatory Board for Auditors (IRBA)
South African corporates and audit firms are experiencing a significant talent and skills shortage as youngsters find the industry uninteresting, and international audit firms poach local talent.
As the demand for auditing services continues to grow locally and globally, firms face the challenge of finding qualified professionals to fill key roles. Kaya FM
Queen Ndlovu is the CEO and Founder of QP Drone Tech, which offers commercial drone services such as mapping, inspection, disaster management, and surveying to clients in industries such as mines, critical infrastructure, security, and agriculture, among others. She has been in business for 25 years, with portfolios in maritime, agriculture, and artisan schools.
Ms. Ndlovu holds a master’s degree in Entrepreneurship from Wits Business School, as well as a postgraduate qualification in Global Entrepreneurship from Peking University, China. She is currently pursuing her PhD studies at Wits University, focusing on the Drone Economy within the mining industry. She is also recognized as one of the top-rated international published drone authors on Amazon for a book she co-authored, which reached number 1 in the US and Germany. Ms. Ndlovu is also a Managing Director of South Africa Flying Labs, an NPO which provides Tech for Good services such as STEAM /4IR workshops for the unemployed youth and school going children, in an effort to bridge the digital divide, by hosting of conferences and responding to humanitarian aid. Kaya FM
GUEST - Teboho Maruping, UIF Commissioner
The UIF has partnered with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to establish a R5 billion UIF Fund II which is being co-managed by the PIC. The IDC has been marketing the fund that focuses on job creation and job retention initiatives by providing senior debt facilities (loans) to qualifying applicants across all economic sectors. Kaya FM
GUEST - James Hodge – Competition Commission Chief Economist
Spar has finally joined its fellow grocery retailers Shoprite and Pick n Pay in agreeing to phase out its controversial exclusive lease agreements. The Competition Commission said on Wednesday that the Spar Group reached a consent agreement to end the long-term agreements, following a process mediated by retired judge and former judge president of the Competition Appeal Court Dennis Davis.
Historically, exclusive long-term lease agreements signed with property developers and other landlords have allowed large retailers to operate exclusively in shopping centres, preventing competitors and smaller independents - including historically disadvantaged individuals - from competing at the same properties. "The exclusive lease agreements of Shoprite, Pick n Pay and Spar covered close to 2 000 shopping malls and convenience centres nationally, and excluded any specialist or general grocery supermarkets from competing for consumers in those malls," the commission said. "As more than 50% of grocery shopping journeys are to malls and convenience centres, collectively these leases prevented competition for most consumer purchases." Kaya FM
GUEST – Simon Brown – Founder of JustOneLap
Woolworths has hiked its full-year dividend payout by more than a third thanks to double-digit earnings growth, with margins picking up even though it experienced some volume pressure in its food and fashion businesses.
The JSE-listed retailer, which reported results for the year to 25 June on Wednesday, was also boosted by the sale of Australian fashion business David Jones in March, but also had to contend with higher costs and increased food waste due to SA's ongoing power interruptions. Total group turnover rose 7% to R85.7 billion, the group said, with headline earnings per share rising 29% to 514.7c. The group upped its total dividend just over 36% to 313c.
The group's shares slipped over 4% in early trade on Wednesday but have still gained about 37% over the past one year. Kaya FM
GUEST – Jan Hattingh, Chief Director for Local Government Budget Analysis at Treasury
The report begins by highlighting the persistent challenges faced by municipalities, particularly in complying with the Municipal Standard Chart of Account (mSCOA) Regulations. These regulations, instituted in 2014, aim to standardize the recording and classification of municipal budget and financial data. While there has been gradual improvement in the credibility of mSCOA data, some municipalities still struggle with compliance. Common issues include incorrect use of mSCOA, reliance on spreadsheets for budgeting, and incorrect reporting of conditional grant spending. Kaya FM
GUEST - Minister Thoko Didiza - Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
The Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Ms Thoko Didiza, today launched the Agro Energy Fund to assist farmers to alleviate the impact of loadshedding.
Earlier this year, in response to the energy challenges in the sector, the Minister established a Task Team comprising of sector partners, to advise on solutions to mitigate against the impact of energy cuts on the sector. In addressing alternative energy sources in the sector, the Minister together with the Land Bank will announce on how the farmers will access the Agro-Energy Fund. The focus for the Agro-Energy Fund will be on energy intensive agricultural activities. These will include irrigation, intensive agricultural production systems and cold chain related activities. Kaya FM
GUEST – Lebohang Mehalane - EnviAfrica founder and executive director
A black female-owned South African microinsurance company, EnviAfrica Life, launched its first two products: life and funeral cover products aimed at the lower-middle income market. EnviAfrica founder and executive director Lebohang Mehalane told Sunday World that she was looking at launching credit life, disability and retrenchment benefits products too.
She said her company had yet to sell its life and funeral cover products to schemes or individuals, but she expected to start making sales from the start of May. Mehalane said the Financial Sector Conduct Authority approved the life and funeral cover products in October 2022. She said the product launch was key to the transformation of the financial services industry and increasing financial inclusion through the design and development of insurance products that are relevant, accessible and affordable.
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GUEST - Duma Gqubule is research associate at the Social Policy Initiative
The fact that more than half of the South African population is under 30 years could be beneficial for the country’s economic growth and development. But South Africa has not been able to reap this demographic dividend. This is largely due to a skills mismatch. That’s why 60% of its young people (between the ages of 15 and 25) are unemployed.
The situation was made worse by the COVID-19 pandemic. Its impact on the labour market disproportionately affected young and low-skilled workers. A major cause of youth unemployment in South Africa is the mismatch between what employers want and what young people have. This is mostly characterised by technical under-skilling relative to the expectations of employers. The country’s schooling system has failed young people, with many learners’ going through the basic education system without acquiring the necessary literacy and numeracy skills. Kaya FM
GUEST – Andrea Tucker, Director of MortgageMe
A good location can mean different things to different people, of course, but there are also objective factors that determine a home's value. Depending on your personal needs and
preferences, you may not be able to buy a home with all of these factors. And that's OK. After all, a home is much more than just an investment. When you are home-hunting, pay attention to nearby amenities.
Buyers usually want convenient grocery stores, dry cleaners, and entertainment. Consider trains, roads, and public transportation for transportation, such as bus stops, subway stations, and public bike-share locations. Proximity to amenities will typically improve a home's value. Kaya FM
GUEST - Ms. Leoni Grobler Director: Executive Education Wits Business School and Ms. Charmaine Houvet, Director IWFSA
Wits Business School (WBS), in partnership with the Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority (FASSET), is offering senior black female managers in the Finance and Accounting sector the opportunity to attend sponsored Executive Development Programmes and Management Advancement Programmes (MAP) for Future Change Leaders.
The Executive Development Programme has been customised to address the relevant leadership skills and competencies required by female leaders in the Finance and Accounting sector to lead divisions and companies now and into the future. Kaya FM
GUEST – Annaline van der Poel - head of new business at Debt Rescue Africa
A recent survey conducted by Debt Rescue revealed that two-thirds of the nation are now struggling to put enough food on the table to feed their families – with 66% of South Africans saying that they have had to skip a meal in recent months as they couldn’t afford three meals a day.
Against this backdrop the news that the household food basket increased by R25.48 (0.5%), from R5 056.45 in June 2023 to R5 081.94 in July 2023, is akin to rubbing salt into an open wound. Even more disturbing is that the items which increased in price by 5% or more are items like white sugar (7%), potatoes (8%), eggs (5%), and fish (7%) – all staple foods needed to serve up a decent meal. The Household Affordability Index is conducted by the Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice & Dignity group (PMBEJD), and tracks food price data from 47 supermarkets and 32 butcheries across the country on a month-by month basis. Kaya FM
GUEST – Motshabi Nomvethe, Head of Technical Marketing, Professional Provident Society
In most cases, vaping will affect your life insurance in the same way that smoking does. This is because life insurers will see you as having an increased risk of developing a serious illness or dying prematurely. Most people who vape will pay higher life insurance premiums and may be limited in the type of policy they can take out. Kaya FM
GUEST – Gugu Sidaki – Director and Wealth Manager at Wealth Creed
Divorce. Job loss. Business failure. Eviction. Bankruptcy. Poverty.
Few people get through life without experiencing a financially traumatic situation of some kind – whether as a child watching your parents go through it or experiencing it yourself as an adult. Look no further than the pandemic to see countless recent cases of it.
Such events can lead to undermining money habits that can hurt your finances, your relationships or both. Kaya FM
The Standard Bank MoneyMarket Select is a savings account offered by Standard Bank. Unlike notice or fixed deposits, savings accounts allow quick and easy access to your money. MMS is an account that pays interest based on current interest rates in the money markets. The interest rates paid are generally higher than those of savings accounts and transaction accounts but may require a sizable amount of capital. Kaya FM
GUEST – Johan Wege - Chair of Agri SA's Centre of Excellence: Labour
Agri SA said the rapid national minimum wage increase is throttling South Africa’s agricultural sector growth. The organisation said it would be making a submission to Parliament that demonstrates the negative impact of the national minimum wage on the growth and sustainability of the agricultural sector. “Unless the increases of the minimum wage in the agricultural sector are aligned with inflation, there is a real risk of the agricultural sector contracting with devastating effects for employment in the sector.”
The agricultural sector has proven remarkably resilient despite facing numerous crises – including the Covid-19 pandemic.
However, Agri SA warned that the pressure on the sector is beginning to show. The sector grew by 17.8% in 2020 but only 7.4% in 2021 and a marginal 0.9% in 2022. This slower pace of growth is reflected in the labour statistics recently released by Stats SA, which showed only a 0.8% quarter-on-quarter increase in employment in the agricultural secto Kaya FM
GUEST – Khaya Sithole – Independent Analyst
Transnet is suing energy giants Sasol and TotalEnergies for nearly R1.3bn, accusing the companies of short-paying tariffs due to it, as the fallout from the cancellation of an apartheid-era variation agreement for the transport of crude oil intensifies.
The state-owned freight and ports company is demanding R815m from Sasol and R461m from TotalEnergies for services related to the use of its pipeline to move crude oil from Durban to the Natref refinery in Sasolburg, Free State. Kaya FM
GUEST – Rutendo Hwindingwi – Africa business specialist
Drawing from one of the most famous boxing showdowns in world history in which George Foreman fought Muhammed Ali on Africa solid (Rumble in the Jungle). Dr Rutendo Hwindingwi is able to glean some key nuggets from this fight and how you can apply it to your business development strategy for Africa. Not only does he use examples from this fight, but Dr Rutendo Hwindingwi creates a recipe of success of which the ingredients are also from his practical work experience in Africa and current business trends in Africa. Kaya FM
GUEST – Karen Lowe - Director 4 Day Week South Africa
4 Day Week SA Pioneer Pilot Research Results and Insights: As the 4 Day Week SA Pioneer Pilot draws to a close, we are eagerly anticipating the release of research results from a collaborative effort between Boston College and Stellenbosch Business School.
These findings are expected to shed light on the impact and outcomes of the pioneering 4-day workweek experiment in the South African context. Kaya FM
GUEST – Luyanda Jafta – CEO of the People’s Fund
The People’s Fund is a purchase order funding company that has over the past 5 years outlaid R350 Million in capital, funded over 2000 businesses, and enabled half a billion in turnover for emerging businesses. SMMEs with purchase orders from corporate and government apply on our platform to get capital to execute these orders.
They crowdfund the capital we use from everyday people. The capital we extend to the entrepreneurs is sourced from everyday people and businesses who have contributed from R100 all the way to R8 million. We believe in universal access to opportunity and are dedicated to empowering those who strive to seize it. Our brand promise is to Change ‘As Is’ - firstly, to change the system that deprives people of the ability to enact upon these opportunities and secondly, to allow people to change this system as they are. Kaya FM
GUEST – Annabelle Lebethe – SAMRO CEO
The Southern Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) is striking the perfect chord with its relentless dedication to acknowledging and uplifting female talent, as evidenced by the fact that its Executive Committee is composed entirely of women. This milestone follows the recent appointment of Leanne Thomas as the new Chief Financial Officer (CFO).
Ms Thomas joins the ranks of Chief Operations Officer (COO) Mpho Mofikoe, appointed in November 2021, and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Annabell Lebethe, who took office in January 2023. Kaya FM
GUEST – Gareth Joubert -Managing Director for Hollard Trade Credit Number:
Many South African businesses and in particular small and medium enterprises (SMEs) currently find themselves in a vulnerable position, as economic pressures and tough trading conditions continue to impact companies’ ability to stay afloat. Given the highly uncertain operating environment, the demand for trade credit insurance has never been stronger, with businesses increasingly looking for cover to protect themselves from risks involving trade debts.
According to data released by Stats SA at the beginning of this year, company liquidations have surged at the end of 2022, rising 18.3% month-on-month and 30.3% year on year. The rise in insolvencies can be attributed to load shedding, higher interest rates, low growth and high inflation, which make for a difficult trading environment and create financial distress that continues to have an impact on businesses not being able to generate sustainable revenue.
Considering the increasingly challenging business environment in South Africa and therefore the extreme risk that smaller businesses can potentially face when debtors fail to pay due to circumstances beyond their control, trade credit insurance cover should be a top priority for all small and medium companies.
In 2020, retail giant Edcon was placed under business rescue, owing about R3.7 billion to more than 80 entities, with at least 10 former suppliers approaching the high court in Pretoria for permission to litigate against Edcon, to improve their low payout. It was reported at the time that some creditors were to receive as little as four cents for every rand they were owed under the business rescue plan. Kaya FM
Ms Ayanda Mafuleka, is the CEO of Fasset. She is a Chartered Accountant CA(SA). With a finance career that spans more than 16 years, Mafuleka has operated mostly in the public sector. In 2018, her dedication to finance was recognised when she won the Woman of Stature Award as “Woman of the Year in Finance”.
Mafuleka’s career has seen her move through high profile and diverse public institutions, such as: Transnet; Anglo Platinum; South African Post Office; National Treasury; Robben Island Museum; the Department of Home Affairs; Johannesburg City Parks & Zoo; the National Credit Regulator (NCR); and AMFC. With a wealth of knowledge and expertise, Mafuleka continues to contribute her skills to the public sector wherever possible.
She has served as a non-executive director at the institutions like NAPSAR, Randwater Foundation, and she also serves as a member and Chairperson of Audit & Risk and Finance committees in national and provincial departments, public entities, and a tertiary institution. In 2022, Ms Mafuleka was appointed as one of Eskom’s Board of Directors. Kaya FM
GUEST – Carla de Abreu, Business Development Manager at proptech company, e4,
In constrained economic environments where interest rates are high, property markets favour the buyer. With careful planning, as soon as a prospective buyer is ready to go house hunting, they can find themselves in a strong position to negotiate with all of the role players in the buying process, from the moment they put in an offer, right through to the conclusion of the sale.
Carla de Abreu, Business Development Manager at proptech company, e4, says there are a number of touch points where buyers can negotiate better rates, prices, terms and conditions of their purchase, it’s just a question of being empowered and knowing what to ask which entity. Kaya FM
GUEST – Harry Scherzer, CEO at Future Forex
With the 15th annual BRICS Summit now underway in South Africa, talk of a new unified currency for the bloc and a more concerted effort to move away from the dollar as the global currency for trade is gaining attention. The summit build-up has been dominated by speculation on the possible expansion of the BRICS grouping and the introduction of a common BRICS currency – the latter of which has caused much debate in economic circles. Proponents of such a currency have argued that nations, which represent a massive percentage of the global population, should not be so highly dependent on the dollar as the currency of trade and that trade in more local currencies should be easier.
The argument for a unified currency among BRICS nations has been spearheaded by Russia, which has suffered greatly from sanctions imposed on it by the United States and Western nations in the wake of its war in Ukraine. According to Harry Scherzer, CEO at Future Forex, with over 74% of international trade being done through the US dollar, there has been a push from the East for some form of de-dollarisation – which basically suggests not using the dollar as much for international trade in order to remove the USA’s control over international trade. US specific decisions often affect the world, he said, even when the ones making those decisions are people who care mainly, if not only, about the US economy rather than the impact it has on the global econom Kaya FM
GUEST – Arthur Goldstuck - World Wide Worx CEO
The inaugural South African SME Tech Index 2023 showed an overall level of 63.3%, which indicates that 63.3% of small, medium-sized and microenterprises (SMEs) in South Africa are making effective use of technology. However, this also means that there is still a considerable way to go to empower small businesses to use technology to improve their competitiveness and resilience, market research company World Wide Worx CEO Arthur Goldstuck said in an August 17 briefing.
The research also showed a significant difference in effective technology use between SMEs led by women and those led by men, with 56.2% of women-led SMEs reporting effective or very effective use of technology, compared with 72.1% of SMEs led by men. This highlights a disparity in access to technology. However, the research also found that 62.3% of women-led SMEs saw growth over the past 12 months, while only 51.9% of SMEs led by men saw growth over the same time. “Female-led businesses have demonstrated higher competitiveness and adeptness in navigating challenges, contributing to their success and expansion,” Goldstuck said. Kaya FM
GUEST – Farzana Botha - Segment Manager at Sanlam Risk and Savings
Longevity literacy is critical to help women live confidently and securely when it comes to their wind-down years. South Africa’s gender pension gap sits at 26%, reflecting the average difference in retirement income between men and women. Farzana Botha, Segment Manager at Sanlam Risk and Savings, says that often, women cannot afford to retire as early or as comfortably as men. She believes that turning this around should be a national imperative. Botha says, “A multitude of factors contribute to the gender pension gap, including the facts that women typically live about five years longer than men, but earn 82% of what their male peers make, for equivalent work. Closing this pay gap will take close to 300 years. Women must be empowered to control what they can. This includes stretching their retirement incomes for longer and preparing for higher healthcare costs.
Longevity literacy is key to this.” A recent Sanlam study shows that, like men, women hope to retire comfortably from age 65 on. “We need to reframe retirement to be more personal and less rigid and conventional. The wind-down years offer incredible opportunities to pursue new careers, travel and passion projects, spend time with loved ones, and impact one’s community in a lasting way. In fact, 33% of women view retirement as an opportunity to start a second, gentler career. That’s what we need to empower women to focus on. Then it’s about building real roadmaps to achieve the requisite financial freedom to reach these goals. Kaya FM
GUEST – Benay Sager, head of DebtBusters
Personal loans have become a lifeline for many more South Africans over the past seven years and debt-to-income ratios for top-income earners are at all-time highs. These were some of the findings from DebtBusters’ Q2 2023 Debt Index, a quarterly review of data drawn from debt-counselling applications.
Benay Sager, head of DebtBusters, says while the SA Reserve Bank did not increase interest rates in July following a better-than-expected inflation forecast, there have been 10 successive interest-rate increases since November 2021. Kaya FM
GUEST - Dr Martyn Davies - Emerging Markets expert
A group of world leaders is meeting at the BRICS summit in Johannesburg, South Africa this week. BRICS is a group of five countries with emerging economies that want to instate their own world economic and trade systems and has discussed creating a new currency. Dozens of other countries want to join the group – but what impact will this have on the global economy? Kaya FM
GUEST - Cobus Loubser - Curro Holdings CEO
JSE-listed private schooling group Curro Holdings reported 3% growth in student numbers across its portfolio to 72 385 in the six months to the end of June 2023, which boosted revenue and profits, but also raised costs.
On Monday the group confirmed to investors that the growth in student numbers has supported a 14% surge in tuition fees over the half year. This, together with annual fee increases, have supported the 16% growth in revenue to R2.38 billion. Kaya FM
GUEST - July Ndlovu - Thungela CEO
South African coal exporter Thungela saw profits plunge by 69% in the first half of the year on weaker coal prices and logistical constraints. The company, which is the country’s largest shipper of coal for electricity generation, posted record income last year as European demand for the fuel surged after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, causing prices to reach $450 a ton.
Coal is now trading at less than a third of that peak. Thungela and other miners have also faced severe bottlenecks in rail services run by state-owned Transnet, with poor management, idle locomotives, cable theft and ageing equipment among the issues weighing down coal shipments. Kaya FM
GUEST – Sakina Ntuli - King Price Insurance Expert and Spokesperson
The experience of having your insured car written off is obviously a distressing one and something one should try to avoid at all costs. So, when is a write-off – which, in insurance terms, occurs when a damaged vehicle is either structurally irreparable or uneconomical to repair and thus deemed a total loss – most likely to happen? Well, thanks to data provided by King Price Insurance, we have some intriguing insight into this question. Kaya FM
GUEST – Thami Moatshe, Executive Head of the Localisation Support Fund
A public-private initiative has been launched in an effort to support the growth and development of South Africa’s manufacturing sector, whose recovery from the Covid lockdowns is currently being undermined by intense daily loadshedding.
Known as the Localisation Support Fund (LSF), the non-profit company is being funded by the private sector, but has a board that includes government, labour and business representatives, including Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Ebrahim Patel, who is LSF chairperson. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dr Gloria Tshukudu - Plastic & reconstructive surgeon
The first black woman to qualify as a plastic surgeon in SA is driving her field into the future.
Having taken great strides in breaking barriers in her own career, Dr Gloria Tshukudu continues to drive her field into the future, by offering innovative, compassionate care to those who need it most.
“Plastic and reconstructive surgery can improve a person’s confidence and sense of self-worth,” she explains. “When I was studying, and I saw first-hand how reconstructive surgery a huge benefit in a person’s life can have, I was inspired to do more.”
Dr Tshukudu graduated with a degree in medicine at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, previously known as Medical University of South Africa. She then completed her internship at Paul Kruger Memorial Hospital in Rustenburg, outside Johannesburg, and went on to receive a Master of Medicine degree at the University of Limpopo’s Ga-Rankuwa Medical University at the end of 2012. Kaya FM
GUEST - Norman Drieselmann - CEO of Retailability Group
When last did you go to an EDGARS store? The CEO of Retailability Group, Norman Drieselmann, joins KAYABiz host, Gugulethu Mfuphi to chat about how the group turned the store profitable in just 3 years. Kaya FM
GUEST – Riaan Koppeschaar - Exxaro Finance Director
Exxaro Resources has reported a 32% drop in interim profit and a 29% drop in headline earnings per share driven by lower thermal coal prices, sub-par rail performance and lower Eskom offtake. The company reported a decline in profit to R6.3 billion for the first half of the year, compared to R9.2 billion in the first half of 2022. Headline earnings per share of R24.43, had decreased from R34.26 in the comparative half. Group revenue declined 15% to R18.9 billion – down from R22.3 billion in the first half of 2022. Overall coal production volumes were down by 7% to 20.2 million tonnes. Kaya FM
GUEST - Sim Tshabalala - Standard Group CEO
Standard Bank, SA's largest lender by assets, said on Thursday that profits rose more than a third in its half-year to end-June after it got a boost from higher interest rates and its African operations. Headline earnings rose 35% to R21.2 billion in the period, the group said, with this profit measure in its rest-of-Africa personal banking operations more than doubling to R605 million, helped by margin expansion due to higher interest rates and a double-digit increase in the active client base. Kaya FM
GUEST – David Hirsch, CEO of TechMarkit.
TechMarkit, has established itself as a leading provider of affordable IT and refurbished tech equipment in South Africa. They are excited to announce the launch of their new Laptop Library Programme aimed at providing anyone who requires the use of a laptop temporarily, with free access to laptops subject to a nominal refundable deposit.
TechMarkit’s innovative new Laptop Library programme, an essentially free service, is the first of its kind in South Africa in a retail space and forms part of their ongoing commitment to make technology accessible to everyone by removing the cost barrier. Having a laptop is now considered essential to education and any workplace – completing assignments or merely getting information from the internet is made possible where before it may have been inaccessible. The good news is
TechMarkit’s Laptop Library service is available to anyone whatever your situation may be. If you need to complete an assignment but do not have access to personal computers at home or your child has a project/homework to complete at home but no laptop of their own to work on or if you only have one laptop and more than one person needs to use it at the same time. Or maybe you are one of the unfortunates whose laptop been stolen, and you are waiting for insurance to pay out or need to save to buy a new one? TechMarkit’s Laptop Library will tide you over. Even if your laptop has gone in for repair, this is the perfect solution to ensure you don’t skip a beat! Kaya FM
GUEST – KWESI PEKU – Founder & CEO of Coffee Machine Repairs & Rentals
Looking for coffee machine repairs or coffee machine servicing? We offer a countrywide network of technicians to support you with routine servicing or repairs, either on-site or in one of our workshops. Our coffee machine spare parts store holds thousands of spares for most traditional espresso coffee machines, automatic coffee machines, filter coffee machines and coffee vending machines. If it makes coffee, we can probably repair it!
Established in 2012, Coffee Machine Repairs & Rentals has been a trusted service provider in the Johannesburg metro area, specializing in repairing a wide range of coffee machines for homes, businesses, and offices. In addition to repairs, the company offers rental services, providing state-of-the-art coffee machines capable of making six to eight different beverages, perfect for office settings. With over a decade of experience, they pride themselves on their friendly, professional, and comprehensive approach, making them the number one choice for coffee machine solutions in Johannesburg. Kaya FM
GUEST – Vis Govender, Co-founder of Everything.Insure
the face of it, South Africa has a robust and competitive insurance sector. Though there may be more than 170 or so companies playing in the insurance space, if you dig a little deeper, it becomes evident that it’s actually quite concentrated and difficult to break into this sector as a new entrant.
A 2021 paper from KPMG, for instance, found that 21 life insurers account for 88% of the total market. Of those, the top five life insurers account for 82% of the market’s total assets. Things aren’t much different in the short-term insurance space, where Santam alone accounts for more than 22% of all market share. In the long term, those levels of concentration may have negative consequences for both industry growth and innovation. It’s therefore critical for the industry’s future that barriers to entry are overcome, making it easier for new insurers and brokers alike to enter the sector. One of the biggest such barriers is regulatory compliance. As Vis Govender, Co-founder of Everything.Insure and Group CEO of firstEquity Group, notes “that’s not to say regulation and the enforcement of compliance aren’t important.” Kaya FM
GUEST – Nazia Karrim, Head of Product Development at the Southern African Fraud Prevention Service
Mkhulu Solly Nduku, Traditional Health Practitioners Sector leader
The South African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS) has warned that criminal syndicates are drugging victims with hallucinogens as part of an intricate and elaborate ‘sangoma’ scam that targets followers of traditional African belief systems.
This is one of two new wildly intricate scams that have emerged in the country, where syndicates are going the extra mile steal millions of rands from unsuspecting residents. “South Africans are deeply connected to their culture and cultural beliefs. Followers of the fundamental traditional African belief system believe they are watched over by their ancestors, who guide them in times of crisis or when facing an important decision in their lives,” the SAFPS said.
As many South Africans currently face harsh economic conditions, individuals are seeking guidance on how to see them through the challenging times – and scam artists are abusing these belief systems and desperation. Nazia Karrim, Head of Product Development at the SAFPS noted that the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation has recorded a spike in what it calls “ancestry scams”,and approached SAFPS to help inform the public about the threat. Kaya FM
GUEST - GUEST – Professor Peter Goss - Managing Director : Fi-Fa-C & Professor of Practice in Forensic Auditing and Governance at the University of Johannesburg
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has filed papers to apply for leave to appeal the decision of the High Court of South Africa, Gauteng Division Pretoria, relating to the Unit’s investigation into the affairs of Telkom. Last month, the High Court ruled that Proclamation R49 of 2022 authorising the SIU to investigate allegations of serious maladministration, malpractice, and possible corruption in the affairs of Telkom was declared unconstitutional, invalid, and of no force or effect.
The High Court found that Telkom is not a state institution and, therefore, the SIU could not investigate allegations of serious maladministration, malpractice, and possible corruption in the affairs of Telkom. “After consulting with our legal team, the SIU is of the opinion that there is reason for an appeal,” the group said. “The court needs to give a fuller picture of what constitutes a State institution as this can set a legal precedent on which institutions the SIU can exercise its powers.” The SIU said it is important that the “state institution” issue be decided and settled. Kaya FM
GUEST – Kegan Peffer, CEO of Adoozy
Adoozy has launched South Africa's first contactless power bank rental network, bringing a much-needed solution to the African market where the need for consumers to transact and connect on-the-go is becoming a necessity. For consumers, the main drawcard will be the ease and convenience of the Adoozy offering. An individual would need to download the Adoozy app and register with sign up information, a fingerprint scan and their card details to become a customer. Consumers can then locate their nearest Adoozy Power Tower, wave their hand at the Adoozy
Power Tower and the Adoozy solution will link their fingerprints to their bank card. For the moment, this means consumers can rent the power bank free of charge every time it is returned - within 48hrs – to any Adoozy Power Tower located within the country. In addition, Adoozy is also rewarding first time users with their share of R500 000 worth of data when they return their power bank for the first time. Kaya FM
GUEST – Palesa Mabasa, FNB Business Development Head: SME Funding
In a difficult economic environment, it may make sense to downsize your business rather than closing doors altogether. Load shedding, inflation, and the current high interest rate environment have left little disposable income in consumers’ pockets making it very challenging for SMEs to be as profitable as before.
Downscaling a business may result in better profitability in the short to medium term. “If you are one of the many businesses considering downsizings, there are a few factors to consider so that you avoid a backlash,” explains Palesa Mabasa, FNB Business Development Head: SME Funding. Kaya FM
GUEST – Professor Carel van Aardt - Bureau of Market Research’s research director
Income inequality in South Africa is again demonstrated by the findings of a report on personal income estimates that found that 73.7% of the adult population earns below R73 351 per year (less than about R6 110 per month), while only 3.3% earns more than R625 992 per year (about R52 170 per month).
The Household Wealth Research Division of the Bureau of Market Research’s report on personal income estimates for South Africa from 2018 to 2022 shows a clear picture of income inequality with low income earners accounting for 10% of cash flow income, while the high-income earners earn 44.8%, while 23% of the adult population relies mainly on grants as cash flow income source. The most alarming finding is that 32.1% of the adult (older than 15) population does not receive any form of cash flow income, instead depending on in-kind transfers and support from friends and relatives.
Women are also getting the short end of the stick with income inequality. The report shows that although there is an almost equal gender population distribution between females and males, females remain at the lower end in relation to the cash flow income earnings. It is estimated that 47.3% of the adult population are male but earn 58.5% of the cash flow income in the country. Kaya FM
GUEST – Risenga Maluleke – Stats SA’s Stastitician General
Stats SA announced today that the official unemployment rate was 32.6% in the second quarter of 2023 – a slight improvement from the first quarter.
The results of the Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) indicate that the number of employed persons increased by 154,000 to 16.3 million in Q2 2023 compared to the first quarter of 2023. The number of unemployed persons decreased by 11,000 to 7.9 million during the same quarter. Additionally, the number of people who were not economically active for reasons other than discouragement increased by 93,000 to 13.3 million.
The discouraged work-seekers decreased by 94,000 in the second quarter of 2023 compared to the first quarter of 2023, resulting in a net decrease of 1,000 in the not economically active population. This resulted in the official unemployment rate decreasing by 0.3 of a percentage points from 32.9% in the first quarter of 2023 to 32.6% in the second quarter of 2023 Kaya FM
GUEST - Prof Mark Swilling, Chairman of the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA)
The Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA), Rand Merchant Bank (RMB), members of civil society and academia recently convened a roundtable meeting to discuss various blended finance and resource mobilisation strategies to address South Africa’s electricity transmission grid challenges. The discussions took place at the DBSA headquarters in Midrand, South Africa. Kaya FM
GUEST – Loyiso Boyce – Cybersecurity expert and Managing Director of CLYROFOR
Of course, as exciting as a good getaway is, it’s important to remember that traveling can also make us more vulnerable to cyberattacks. With that said, here are tips to help keep you, your friends, your colleagues and your family cyber safe while you travel. Kaya FM
GUEST – Rodger George Consumer Industry Leader at Deloitte Africa
Consumers globally are feeling the pinch, with high inflation weighing heavily on their purchasing power. South African consumers have not been spared this fate – with inflation hitting them particularly hard at the grocery store. Food inflation in South Africa fell to an 11 month low of 11% in June 2023, compared to 11.8% in May, according to StatsSA.
This welcome news for consumers was however dulled by inflation not falling across the entire category; vegetables, fruit, sugar, sweets, and deserts bucked the trend, accelerating from 11.9% to 16.4% accordingly. This was the highest reading for the category since June 2017, and with vegetables and sugar being among the staple items in the consumer basket, price sensitive consumers will have less of a reprieve than was hoped for.
Everyone needs to eat, however, food is becoming less affordable for some, and it is increasingly evident that South African consumers are being stretched to the limit. Almost half of South African consumers (46%) surveyed, as part of Deloitte’s June 2023 Food Frugality Index, engaged in three or more frugal behaviours in the past two weeks just to make ends meet. This is the highest display of frugality amongst all thirteen countries surveyed for the index; Canadian consumers placed second (37%) followed by Brazilian consumers at 36%. The Deloitte Food Frugality Index is a monthly, proprietary measure of behaviours associated with financial stress at the grocery store—and how they may be shaping the way consumers shop for food. It looks at a range of food frugality index behaviours, including trade-offs that consumers are making and what they are doing to economise. Kaya FM
GUEST – Kagiso Lebethe - Senior Employee Relations Specialist
Office romances carry all the potential risks and rewards of typical relationships, with an added layer of complexity. Closely blending professional and personal lives can be a recipe for disaster. Especially following the COVID-19 pandemic, companies recognize that people crave social connection. This isn’t to say office romance should be encouraged Kaya FM
GUEST - Bongani Sithole - Founders Factory Africa CEO
Founders Factory Africa has secured an additional $113 million in funding to scale its model to better serve founders across the African tech ecosystem. The additional support from the Mastercard Foundation and Johnson & Johnson Impact Ventures, an impact fund within the Johnson & Johnson Foundation, follows on from previous investments into Founders Factory Africa by Standard Bank, Small Foundation and Netcare.
The support will enable Founders Factory Africa to scale its model and better serve technology-led start-ups and founders across the African continent. Kaya FM
GUEST - Coreen van der Merwe, Director of Sovereign
South Africa’s bleeding millionaires – and there doesn’t seem to be any stopping the trend. The numbers suggest one in every five millionaires has sought greener pastures over the past decade, with around 1500 high nett worth individuals (HNWIs) heading for the exit in 2022 alone.
Why are they going? And more importantly where are they going? Coreen van der Merwe, a director at Sovereign Trust SA, says there’s been a sharp uptick in interest in destinations such as Singapore, Canada, Australia and Malta, which all offer various options for relocation, highly diversified economies and supportive environments in which to do business. Kaya FM
GUEST – Tsholofelo Molefe – MTN Group CFO
MTN saw only a slight increase in service revenue in the first half of 2023 in South Africa compared to the same period last year, primarily due to intensified load-shedding. The telecoms operator’s interim results for its 2023 financial year showed that between January and June 2023, South African service revenue improved from R20.05 billion to R20.43 billion, a roughly 1.9% gain. However, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) declined by 6.8% in South Africa — from roughly R9.84 billion to R9.17 billion. Kaya FM
GUEST – Mfundo Nkuhlu - Nedbank chief operating officer
Nedbank’s headline earnings increased by 10% in the first half of this year. However, this was partially offset by increases in the bank’s retail impairments. Nedbank released its interim financial results for the six months ended 30 June 2023 today, which revealed strong earnings growth. The bank saw the following year-on-year changes in its earnings in the period:
· Headline earnings – increased by 10%
· Headline earnings per share – increased by 11%
· Basic earnings per share – increased by 8%
Nedbank said its earnings growth was underpinned by strong revenue growth, including associate income of 14% and good expense management, enabling pre-provisioning operating profit (PPOP) growth of 22%. The company also saw a 9% increase in its profit for the period compared to the previous year, growing from R7.41 billion in H1 2022 to R8.10 billion. Kaya FM
GUEST - Vukile Davidson, National Treasury Chief Director Financial Markets and Stability
The Bounce Bank Support Scheme for businesses signalled in the Minister of Finance’s February 2022 Budget Speech has come into effect. The purpose of the Bounce Back Support Scheme is to provide additional funding to qualifying businesses in order to grow the South African economy and to facilitate job creation. The Scheme is expected to facilitate the recovery and bounce back of businesses beyond the Covid-19 pandemic lockdowns. The Scheme will also help those businesses recovering from the July 2021 civil unrest in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng, as well as the current on-going flood related disaster.
In June 2020 the Covid-19 Loan Guarantee Scheme was established to help ease financial pressures experienced by qualifying businesses negatively affected by low economic activity following lockdown restrictions to reduce the spread of Covid-19. The Guarantee Scheme formed part of a package of regulatory and direct support measures which provided significant financial support and helped preserve many jobs and kept businesses afloat. The Bounce Back Support Scheme benefits from lessons learnt from the 2020 Loan Guarantee Scheme to provide for greater take-up including by Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) and non-bank Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) finance providers.
The Bounce Back Support Scheme comprises a loan guarantee mechanism of R15 billion and a smaller equity linked scheme which will be facilitated by National Treasury and DFIs. The smaller equity linked scheme will be introduced later in the year as a complementary tool of R5 billion. Kaya FM
Guest - Mudiwa Gavaza - business writer for the Business Day and Financial Mail
Elon Musk has offered to fund the legal bills of any users of his social network, X, who’ve been discriminated against by their employer because of their actions on the platform.
The proposal comes with “no limit” on costs and X Corp. will “go after the boards of directors of the companies too,” he said in messages posted to the site Saturday night.
The billionaire, who acquired Twitter for $44 billion in October and recently rebranded it as X, has made a habit of announcing major policy changes for the service late at night or over weekends. Kaya FM
Guest - Ayanda Majola and Kagiso Tloubatla – Founders of SV Capital [A South African investment company]
Are you ready to invest but not sure where to start? In recent years, financial markets have experienced increased volatility due to factors like geopolitical tensions, global economic uncertainties, and unexpected events like the COVID-19 pandemic.
As the high cost of living continues to rise, it’s becoming ever more difficult to save and put money away. That makes investing all the more important so that you can make your money work for you. The key to successful saving is consistency and discipline. Even starting with small amounts can lead to significant savings over time. As you see your investment grow, it can motivate you to save even more and make it easier to reach larger financial goals in the future.
Because traditional investments like stocks and bonds are susceptible to global and local events, people everywhere are seeking alternative investments as a way to hedge against inflation and earn higher returns.
South African investment company, SV Capital, is on a mission to make investing straightforward and accessible to everyone, especially young adults looking to start owning their wealth. Launched in 2017 by chartered accountant and financial analyst Ayanda Majola, and wealth management specialist, Kagiso Tloubatla, the company is taking a strictly local approach by allowing clients to invest as little as R500 in a herd of cattle. Kaya FM
GUEST – Andre Cilliers - Director and Currency Risk Strategist at TreasuryOne
The latest update to The Economist's Big Mac index shows that - theoretically - the rand should be trading at R8.94/dollar.
The index compares the prices of McDonald's Big Mac hamburgers in different countries to determine whether currencies are overvalued, or too cheap.
The idea is that an identical product must cost the same across countries and that a disparity indicates whether the local currency is not at the correct value. The index has been compiled since 1986.
A Big Mac costs R49.90 in South Africa and $5.58 in the United States.
"The implied exchange rate is 8.94. The difference between this and the actual exchange rate, 17.78, suggests the South African rand is 49.7% undervalued," Kaya FM
GUEST: ISABELLA KOBELA AND MEIKI NGCENGENI , FOUNDER OF ISABELLA JEWELLERS AND REFINERS
With R2 000 and her burning ambition, Kobela took a leap of faith and started her own jewellery business. Today, Kobela is the designer of Isabella Jewellers and Refiners, and her daughter Meiki Ngcengeni takes care of the financial side of the business. The business first produced jewellery, but Kobela soon saw that it needed to expand in the previously male-dominated world of jewellery manufacturing. Isabella Jewellers and Refiners produces and sells jewellery to the industry, manages a profitable refining and recycling business, offers raw materials to wholesalers and even finds time to create and market unique items. Kaya FM
GUEST – STEVE ZWANE, FOUNDER AND CHAIRPERSON OF THE YOUTH LEADERSHIP AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP DEVELOPMENT (YLED)
We explore how volunteering can shape the minds and hearts of young people, nurturing their entrepreneurial spirit and paving the way for future success. Volunteering provides a platform for young entrepreneurs to gain hands-on experience, expand their networks and acquire skills crucial for their business endeavours. It is through volunteering that they are exposed to diverse environments, allowing them to observe and learn from seasoned professionals and industry experts. Kaya FM
OUR AFRICA: Niger Coup- Burkina Faso and Mali have warned that any military intervention a declaration of war
GUEST: THEMBISA FAKUDE IS A SENIOR RESEARCH FELLOW AT AFRAISD
The military governments of Burkina Faso and Mali have warned that any military intervention against last week’s coup leaders in Niger would be considered a “declaration of war” against their nations.
Regional bloc ECOWAS has imposed sanctions, including a halt in all financial transactions and a national assets freeze. It also said it could authorise force to reinstate Bazoum, who observers believe is being held at his house in the capital, Niamey. Kaya FM
GUEST: HAYLEY IVINS-DOWNES, HEAD OF DIGITAL AT LIGHTSTONE PROPERTY
Data from Lightstone shows that fewer South African youth are buying houses and cars compared to ten years ago. In 2012, those under 35 accounted for 39% of new car purchases and 45% of property purchases above R20,000, but by 2022, these numbers had dropped to 31% and 38% respectively. “Property sales suggest, in addition to declining property transfers, those under 35 are switching to the lifestyle benefits offered by sectional title properties, they are buying later - with the average age of first-time buyers being higher than it was ten years ago - and they are increasingly buying solo. Kaya FM
GUEST: DR AZAR JAMMINE, DIRECTOR AND CHIEF ECONOMIST OF ECONOMETRIX
Consumers who are already under pressure from high interest rates, food prices and energy costs will have to dig deeper into their pockets to fill up the tank, starting in August.
This comes as oil prices rallied to a three-month high early in the week, after hovering around $81 (R1 469) a barrel last week. The rally follows better-than-expected global demand and supply disruptions in both Nigeria and Libya, as well as the output cuts by the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries driving up the oil price to over $85 a barrel by midday on Tuesday.
The increase comes despite an improvement in the rand and a stay in interest rate hikes by the Reserve Bank last week. Kaya FM
GUEST - Tarina Vlok, MD of Elite Risk Acceptances
The recently released Barbie movie has caused a global sensation. Now collectors are cashing in on the trend. Just this week Toys R Us announced a 30% surge in sales of the iconic Mattel doll, with the shop even catering to collectors’ potential demands by selling special editions. In addition, recently a Barbie doll went on auction for an astounding $302,500, just over R5 million.
“However, for collectors who are quick to get swept up in the craze, there are pitfalls,” warns Tarina Vlok, MD of Elite Risk Acceptances. Kaya FM
With over 16 years of experience in marketing and numerous awards, Buli Ndlovu, Executive Head of Retail and Business Banking Marketing at Nedbank, has earned a reputation as a strategic leader in the financial services industry. Ndlovu demonstrates the true essence of bravery believing that true courage is doing it even when your knees are shaking. Her "Do it afraid" mantra reflects her unwavering determination to overcome challenges and excel in her role. Kaya FM
GUEST – Andrew Fulton, Director at Eighty20
Savings are crucial during stressful periods for individuals and households alike. In the peak of Covid-19 times, when mobility was restricted, and only essential services and outlets were operational, many of us had to dip into our savings. Interestingly, with the proposed new changes to the two-pot retirement system, it highlights the importance of savings. With an already poor savings culture, South Africans are trying to keep their heads above water.
Eighty20, a consumer strategy, research and analytics business, specialises in helping brands better understand customers. MAPS data provides insights from a nationally representative survey of 20 000+ South Africans. The FinScope Consumer Survey is uniquely aimed at increasing the understanding of the informal financial product/service market. Collaboratively, the two research sets give insight into South Africans’ saving behaviour. Kaya FM
GUEST – Busisiwe Mavuso - Chief Executive Officer of Business Leadership South Africa
CEOs from over 115 leading corporations operating in South Africa and which collectively employ 1.2-million people and have a combined market value of R11-trillion, have formally pledged to help the country overcome the problems currently undermining inclusive economic growth. The companies operate across all sectors of the South African economy, which is currently characterised by low economic growth, collapsing infrastructure, rampant crime and corruption, and extremely high levels of inequality and unemployment. Kaya FM
GUEST – Portia Mavhungu is the inventor of the Para-Tube
Her invention, the Para-Tube, allows wheelchair users to use a bathroom without assistance
Raised in Laudium, Pretoria, Portia Mavhungu is the inventor of the Para-Tube, a retrofitted seat that fits in any chair with a built-in toilet using disposable, biodegradable bags giving independence and dignity to its users. Kaya FM
GUEST – Osbourne Molatudi – MD of Molatudi Attorneys
The SA Revenue Service (SARS) has won its case to dismiss an employee who took time off claiming to be sick, only to be seen on TV by his bosses at an EFF protest at Clicks in Sandton. The employee, junior investigator Benneth Mathebula, was initially fired by the tax agency for dishonesty in early 2021. But he won his appeal at the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration (CCMA) later that year, which ordered that he be reinstated and given back pay.
The Labour Court has now overturned the CCMA's ruling, finding that SARS was within its rights to fire him. Both sides agreed that Mathebula took two sick days' leave from SARS in early September 2020. On the third day, he saw a doctor in line with the tax agency's policy. He was given more time off at home. Kaya FM
Guest - Peter Major, director of mining at Modern Corporate Solutions
Mining companies in South Africa face significant challenges, putting the industry at a crossroads. Local mining companies manage unique South African operational complexities while still operating in the context of global pressures. Kaya FM
GUEST – Adelaide Kekana – Founder and MD of Tax Co and Asssociates
Andra Nel, KFC Marketing Manager Brand and Purpose
A KFC customer has ignited a humorous, but valid, debate on Twitter by asking the fast food chain how she can prove her R2 to Add Hope donations in order to get a tax refund from Sars. And the response was simple: Email your receipt and ask for a Section 18A certificate. Kaya FM
GUEST – Sipho Mabaso – HR Specialist
Meet the grumpy stayers: People stuck in their jobs who can't leave for better gigs. Grumpy staying is the act of remaining in a working environment while displaying a persistent and irritable attitude or disposition. This method of expressing displeasure at work is a trend that grew out of the Great Resignation and changing workplace norms. It is important for managers to address instances of this behavior to preserve workplace harmony and combat employee dissatisfaction. Kaya FM
GUEST – Jeanine Astrup - Actuary and member of the Actuarial Society of South Africa (ASSA) Retirement Matters Committee.
At retirement, the journey towards picking an annuity product that will turn your savings into a regular income for as long as you live is often fraught with frustration and anxiety, acknowledges Jeanine Astrup, a consulting actuary and member of the Actuarial Society of South Africa (ASSA) Retirement Matters Committee.
Astrup says that while you have three choices at retirement - a guaranteed life annuity, a living annuity, or a combination of both – you just don’t know what you don’t know. This can make it difficult to ask the right questions to help you make the best choice for your circumstances. “If you turn to Google for help, you’ll be forgiven for thinking that a living annuity is the only sensible option when you retire,” says Astrup. “After all, a living annuity allows you to pick the underlying investments, adjust income drawdown levels once a year, and bequeath any leftover capital to your beneficiaries.” Guaranteed life annuities, on the other hand, are considered old-school, mainly because it is difficult to source a complete comparison of annuity rates and examples of how much income you can buy with your investments. “You have to speak to a financial adviser for this, whereas you can get a good feel for the benefits of living annuities by doing online research,” says Astrup. Kaya FM
GUEST - Malcolm Van Harte - ESKOM Smart Grid Senior Manager
The grid is made up of three building blocks: generation, transmission and distribution. Generation consists of power stations (or plants) that generate electricity. Examples of these are the newly built Kusile and Medupi power stations. South Africa has a generation capacity of approximately 58 GW – enough to power 26 million kettles concurrently – mostly made up of Eskom’s coal-burning power plants. Eskom’s share of this is a generation capacity of 44 GW, of which 38 GW is from coal-powered stations.
Transmission comprises the 28,000 km of high voltage lines that transport electricity at high voltage levels (such as 400 kV or 765 kV) to cities and towns. There, it branches out to 325,000 km of lower-voltage lines that distribute electricity to homes and businesses. In comparison, New Zealand has 150,000 km for a tenth of South Africa’s population and the UK has over 800,000 km. The transmission lines and distribution lines therefore connect the generation plants and users in a network that collectively form the grid, which operates at a synchronised alternating current frequency of 50Hz. Kaya FM
GUEST – Andrew Lukhele is the founder and chairman of the National Stokvels Association of South Africa
The South African stokvel sector is massive and controls vast financial resources. It holds an estimated R49.5 billion in member savings and has some 11.6 million participants. A stokvel is a type of informal credit union in which members agree to contribute a fixed amount of money to a common pool weekly, fortnightly or monthly. However, who protects these members from fraudulent stokvels? Kaya FM
GUEST – Dr Mongezi Makhalima - Organization development specialist and chartered executive coach
Most business owners take only modest weekly or monthly pay – just enough to meet household living expenses. The rest of the cash is left in the business where it acts as a float to cover against a lull in revenue or unexpected business expense. If cash reserves build up in the business, an owner might take out extra ‘bonus’ payments.
So while there aren’t any worthwhile stats on average business owner salary or income (each business is different after all), their regular pay tends to be conservatively low. HOW TO PAY
Irrespective of how much you pay yourself, be fair about it. Pay yourself a consistent amount at frequent intervals. That predictability will help you run a functional home budget. This is where the rainy-day fund for your business can help. Having a reserve of cash in the business reduces the need to dip into your own pocket when there’s an unexpected expense at the shop or office. And having that financial security in your personal life helps clear your head to be a better business manager. Kaya FM
GUEST – Eunice Sibiya - Educator & Coach on Personal Financial management:
Renting an apartment or a house is commonplace. In most cases a deposit is required before you may occupy the property. This deposit is refunded to the lessee on termination of the lease. Must the lessor pay the lessee interest on that deposit? The position in South Africa is spelled out very clearly in the Rental Housing Act (Act 50 of 1999).
This act makes it very clear that any lessor is obliged to invest the deposit at the commencement of the lease. The Act specifically stipulates that the deposit must be invested in an interest-bearing account at a financial institution. The interest earned may not be lower than the interest rate that will normally be earned on a savings account at that bank or financial institution. Kaya FM
Being at the helm of a male-dominated industry as a woman is challenging but at the same time inspiring, as depth and strength motivate you to do more. These are the words of 40-year-old businesswoman Tebogo Mosito, who is the founder of Ditsogo Engineering and Mining, a company based in Rustenburg in North West. Mosito studied human resources management at the University of the Witwatersrand. Mosito said that she always wanted to be in mining and had initially wanted to study geology. However, due to the limited space available at the time, she opted for HR. After completing her studies, she worked for several companies before deciding to start her own company, Ditsogo, in 2015. Ditsogo specialises in structural, mechanical, piping and plate work, as well as mechanical engineering. Kaya FM
GUEST – Amelia de Milander - Marketing Manager at DebtBusters
Increased money stress severely impacting SA’s home, work life and health Three out of four South Africans feel money-stress, more than last year, with particularly women admitting to the effects of financial stress at home and work and on their health. Lower-income earners are the most stressed, while those who earn more have high levels of unsustainable debt. These are some of the findings from DebtBusters’ second annual Money Stress Tracker, one of the largest surveys about how financial stress affects other aspects of South African’s lives.
There were over 35 000 respondents to the online 2023 survey, conducted among a representative sample of South African consumers who are currently not in debt counselling. Of the 78% of respondents who said they feel money-stress (up from 70% in 2022), 94% said it was impacting their home life, 78% their work life and 77% believed it was affecting their health - a clear indication that money stress results in other types of stress. Short-term concerns continue to be the main reason for this stress. Half the respondents said running out of money before the month-end was their main worry. As one put it: “There’s more month than money Kaya FM
GUEST – Wessel de Jager: Associate Director for Turnaround and Restructuring at Deloitte Africa
Emerging from the disruptions of the pandemic, many economies in Africa (and around the world) are experiencing levels of inflation not seen since the global financial crisis. Central banks across the continent have responded with a sharp tightening of monetary policy and further rate increases are projected in 2023.
Deloitte Africa has released the Deloitte Stability Index Africa which shows how businesses and different industries have been navigating the disruptions and economic uncertainties. The report further explores how “The Squeeze Scenario” is impacting the profitability and debt capacity of companies across Africa Kaya FM
GUEST - Nicky Weimar - Nedbank's chief economist
The South African Reserve Bank’s (SARB) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted to pause interest rate hikes for the first time since the current hiking cycle started in November 2021. This decision means the repo rate will remain at 8.25% while the prime lending rate stands at 11.75%. The decision was not unanimous, as three members of the MPC preferred to keep the rate on hold, while the other two preferred a 25 basis point hike.
“Headline inflation returned to the upper end of the inflation target range in June and is forecast to sustainably revert to the mid-point of the target range by the third quarter of 2025,” said SARB governor Lesetja Kganyago today. Kaya FM
GUEST: Adolph Seabi, Safe By Design Founder
They are a group of young and passionate individuals, creating a dent in a highly competitive security and door industry. Both of which are overdue for innovative solutions that would not only add value to the building, but to the Client as well. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dr Jerry Chetty, Head of Business Integrity at Santam
Last year, the Association for Savings and Investment South Africa (ASISA) found that South African life insurers detected 4 287 fraudulent
R800 million cross the board, a notable increase from the previous year. Dr Jerry Chetty explains how, and why, this could have happened Kaya FM
GUEST – Justin Easthorpe, Provincial Sales Manager at OOBA Home Loans
Recently, a hypothetical question was posed around what South Africans could afford on a R51,000 net salary? This became a trending topic on Twitter, sparking debates over whether these earnings would be enough to cover both bond and new car repayments. This hotly contested discussion stemmed from a news article that reported that a Free State education official was under investigation by the Hawks for purchasing four luxury cars on a R50,000-plus net salary. And while the resulting Twitter thread was largely humorous, it
raises an interesting question: What salary amount is needed to comfortably afford home loan repayments in the current high interest rate environment? Kaya FM
GUEST – Sizwe Dhlomo – KAYA Presenter & Andrew Pike - Head of Ports, Transport and Logistics sector at Bowmans
Transnet has selected Manila-headquartered International Container Terminal Services (ICTSI) as the preferred bidder for a joint venture to develop and upgrade the flagship Durban Container Terminal Pier 2. Over a 25-year term, ICTSI will partner with Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) to develop and upgrade Transnet’s biggest container terminal, handling 72% of the Port of Durban’s throughput and 46% of South Africa’s port traffic. The finalisation of the process follows approvals from government in terms of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), Transnet said on Monday. Kaya FM
GUEST: Renai Moothilal - CEO of the National Association of Automotive Component & Allied Manufacturers.
The geopolitical fallout from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is disrupting long-established relations and making the international economic and political landscape difficult to navigate. Such disruption could threaten the ability of SA manufacturers to compete globally. In particular, the possibility of exclusion from the US’s legislated Africa Growth & Opportunity Act (Agoa), or even economic sanctions, is causing consternation in many industries.
Agoa has been of significant value to SA. The automotive industry has benefited greatly from preferential access to the giant US market, exporting vehicles and components worth more than R24bn to the US in 2022 alone. Thanks in part to Agoa, the US remains one of the few major economies with which SA maintains a trade surplus.
Agoa has been one of the foundational blocks of SA’s automotive industry in the post-democratic era, with the sector regarded as a beacon of industrial hope in the country’s otherwise stagnant economy. Thanks to its strong multiplier effect, manufacturing has an outsized effect on employment and economic activity. That is why anything that could potentially lead to a decline in SA’s manufacturing activity is a cause for concern. The wider SA automotive sector is responsible for more than 300,000 jobs in the formal sector. According to the Automotive Industry Export Council the sector contributed 4.9% of the country’s GDP in 2022 and accounted for 21.7% of SA’s manufacturing output and 12.4% of its export basket. Kaya FM
GUEST – Seipati Mokhuoa - CEO Southern African Women In Leadership (SAWIL)
Before you begin your board search or even write your NED CV, it is important that write a board profile that is powerful and will get you selected for a board interview. It is one of the greatest challenges I see potential board members struggle with. You must be able to articulate what you bring to the table.
Whilst there is no such thing as a static board profile (your board profile will adjust depending on who the reader is and what organisation they are representing) your profile must address the five (5) core elements a Chair/decision-maker wants to see in a successful candidate (Prior Governance Experience, Your Executive Skills, Your Networks and Connections, Demonstrable Passion and Cultural Fit). There are also a couple of other elements to consider as well – Industry Experience, Governance Qualifications and Diversity. The totality of these elements addresses a Chair’s motivations. Being able to articulate these both formally and informally, is your board pitch – the reason you should be appointed to a board. Kaya FM
GUEST - Natashia Soopal, Senior Exec for Ethics Standards and Public Sector at SAICA
The South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) urges government to fast track professionalisation of local government finance units. This follows the Auditor-General (AG), Tsakani Maluleke’s presentation on the 2021-22 Local Government Audit Outcome to the Standing Committee of the Auditor-General (SCOAG) on Wednesday, 31 May which continues to reflect poor audit outcomes as a result of poor financial planning, inadequate financial controls, skills and capacity, governance and accountability.AG Maluleke noted that, “Local government has been characterised by dysfunctional municipalities, financial mismanagement, council and administrative instability, and crumbling municipal infrastructure.
This leads to deteriorating standards of living and service delivery failures, resulting in service delivery protests. I firmly believe that service delivery improvements will be enabled by capable, accountable and citizen-centric municipal leadership delivering on their mandates to improve the lives of ordinary South Africans.” The AG identified that there was a lack of proper management of available funds which exerted pressure on local government’s finance thereby reducing its service delivery potential. This is evidenced by local government incurring fruitless and wasteful expenditure amounting to R4,74 billion rands, as well as incurring an estimated financial loss of R5,19 billion rands through non-compliance and fraud as identified through the material irregularities process. It was further noted that despite the salary cost of finance units amounting to R10,75 billion, municipalities still required the assistance of consultants to support them with financial reporting due to lack of skills and vacancies.
Payments to consultants amounted to R1,6 bn (R1,36bn in 2020-21) which is 13% of the total financial reporting cost of R12,36 billion. Furthermore, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) vacancies was 22% whilst CFOs spent an average of 49 months in the position. The vacancies and instability in leadership within municipalities and finance units also resulted in inadequate financial controls, governance and accountability being implemented. Natashia Soopal, Senior Executive for Ethics Standards and Public Sector at SAICA, says that local government finance units play a critical role in managing public funds, ensuring accountability, and optimising service delivery. “By cultivating a highly skilled workforce, local governments can improve audit outcomes, financial management practices, and service delivery. While professionalisation is crucial, an ethical environment is equally vital. Kaya FM
GUEST – Maya Fisher-French is a financial journalist and author at Maya on Money
Do you often find yourself buying things even when you didn’t plan to? It can be hard to resist a good deal on football tickets or a stylish new pair of shoes—even if they don’t quite fit in this month’s budget. In the moment, the purchase may feel great. You’re pumped for that football game, and you already have a whole outfit planned around those shoes. But over time, impulse buying could mean bad news for your wallet.
If you realize that you're overspending and are ready to stop — remember, overspending hinders the life of your dreams! — there are solutions. Kaya FM
Guest: Adil Nchebeleng – Energy Expert
With the country’s economy already hard hit by the Covid-19 pandemic, the situation does not seem to be improving with the restrictions of the pandemic being lifted. But recently, the main culprit for the country’s ever tightening budget is the steadily increasing plague of loadshedding.
The recent decline in load-shedding stages has sparked residents and businesses to ask: Is the government finally gaining control over rolling blackouts? Unfortunately, the answer is no.
There’s a growing suspicion that Eskom halted maintenance for a temporary boost in generation. But is it a short-term fix or part of a long-term plan? South Africans deserve answers. Kaya FM
A lot of South Africans would in the past not think twice about throwing some sausages on the braai, eating a boerie roll or biting into a fat burger. But nowadays, locals might avoid eating mince, sausages, burger patties, dried meats or deli meats. Kaya FM
Tumi is a co-founder and co-Managing Partner of Bopa Moruo Private Equity. As a Managing Partner Tumi is responsible for the leadership, management and direction of the investment management activities and operations management activities at Bopa Moruo.
Tumi has extensive experience gained at leading private equity funds operating across Africa. He served as an Investment Professional with Development Partners International, a London based pan-African private equity fund manager. He was previously a Director of Brait Private Equity, and prior to joining Brait, Tumi qualified as a chartered accountant and worked on various statutory audits of leading insurance and industrial companies for PricewaterhouseCoopers. Kaya FM
GUEST – Thulaganyo Selokela - Senior Associate, Tax and Exchange Control lawyer at CMS South Africa
There are five common tax pitfalls that owners of small businesses should look out for and avoid. These hazards include three value added tax (VAT) issues, one provisional tax matter, and the fifth item deals with the tax implications for owners of small businesses when they draw money from their company. Failing to avoid these pitfalls can cost small businesses dearly in terms of time, stress, and money, including fines. The cost of sorting out these hazards can even destroy small businesses. Kaya FM
GUEST – Conce Moraba - Agricultural Economist
Growing your own food is rewarding, but if you have been successfully gardening for several seasons, you may be wondering about selling produce or how to select the best crops to grow to make money. Some crops may draw more attention at the local farmers market — a juicy crimson tomato or a spectacularly speckled, uniquely-shaped summer squash — but experts say that for farmers looking to make a profit, there is no silver bullet in terms of choosing what to grow. Kaya FM
GUEST - Clayson Monyela - Head of Diplomacy at the International Relations and Co-operation Department And Victor Kgomoeswana - Africa expert
South Africa’s government is stepping up its support for some of the country’s biggest companies to help them hunt for business in Africa and protect them against extortion.
Naledi Pandor, the foreign minister, and state officials met with business executives this week to discuss how South Africa could present itself as "a unified force" when operating on the continent, and ensure companies take full advantage of the available opportunities, said Clayson Monyela, a spokesman for the Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
A platform has been created for South African countries that are active on the continent to share experiences and ideas with their peers, he said. The initiative comes as companies including Vodacom and MTN, Africa’s biggest mobile-phone companies, deal with disputes in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Cameroon respectively. Kaya FM
GUEST - Samuel Mazibuko – Founder of iTaxi Ubuntu App
About this app iTaxi Ubuntu app is the only ride-hailing private taxi shuttle app for Personal rides, Student rides, Stuff rides, Corporate rides, Event rides and Pensioner rides with already discounted rides pricing and vouchers for individual or group passenger rides in real-time. Competing with well-established e-hailing services has always been Samuel Mazibuko’s dream. His first attempt was unsuccessful, but he never gave up. Today he operates iTaxi Ubuntu App, which not only offers e-hailing services but customises prices according to the needs of the user. Kaya FM
GUEST – Mary Phadi – President of the Truckers Association of SA
Unidentified assailants attacked freight trucks on South Africa’s roads for a fourth straight day as lawmakers urged the police to take urgent action to stop the violence. Four trucks are on fire on the N2 highway in the eastern Mpumalanga province, Johannesburg-based broadcaster eNCA reported on Wednesday. A vehicle was also ablaze in Gauteng, the commercial hub, the state-owned South African Broadcasting Corp reported on Wednesday, though other news outlets later said no foul play was suspected. Kaya FM
GUEST – Godfrey Mutizwa – Godfrey Mutizwa is Editor-in-Chief for CNBC Africa
The US Africa Business Summit took off today in Gaborone, with over 1,200 delegates registered and the promise of deals being made across various economic sectors. The summits, organised by the Corporate Council on Africa - a trade association focusing on strengthening commercial relationships between the United States and Africa – are the premier platforms for bringing together African heads of state and other senior US and African government officials with top African and American senior business executives.
On Monday, Botswana Investment and Trade Centre CEO, Keletsositse Olebile told media that the organisation is ready to capture the attention of an array of institutional investors seeking to channel capital investments into Botswana. “Our value proposition is simple as we engage investors, pick Botswana as a landing pad for investments, and position Botswana as an investment hub for your capital,” he said. Kaya FM
GUEST – Matlhogonolo and Masego Mphahlele
Twin sisters Matlhogonolo and Masego Mphahlele have made history after their innovative Digital X-Ray Glasses ranked in the top three at an international technological event. In 2019, during their matric year, twin sisters Matlhogonolo and Masego Mphahlele had an ah-ha moment. Their teammate was injured during a soccer game and urgently needed medical attention. At the top of the procedure list was an emergency "X-ray" to help doctors determine the depth of the sporting injury. Despite the long wait at the local hospital, the twins stood by their friend. As the adage says: "Necessity is the mother of invention." This rang true for the twins who, following the experience, wanted to find a quicker solution to traditional X-rays. They set out on a journey to potentially help many other patients waiting in hospitals and overcrowded clinics. Kaya FM
GUEST – Patilizwe “Pat” Mdoda – Businessman
Retired businessman, Patilizwe “Pat” Mdoda, says that although his children went to prominent schools in the Gauteng province, it has always been his dream to build a school on a par with those, in terms of infrastructure, in his home village of Ncembu in Tsolo. Mdoda, through the Mdoda Family Trust, has made his dream a reality, by building a state-of-the-art Early Childhood Development (ECD) Centre adjacent to Ncembu Primary School as a gift to his community. The facility, named Ncembu Early Childhood Development Centre, will be officially opened as part of the international Nelson Mandela Day celebrations on July 18. Ncembu Primary School, then classified as
a Junior Secondary School, is the same school where Mdoda was a learner from Standard 3 to 6 [Grades 5 to 8] while it was still made up of rondavel mud huts. Kaya FM
GUEST – Jones Gondo, Senior Research Analyst at Nedbank & Israel Noko, CEO of NPI governance consulting
The South African Post Office (SAPO) may have been saved from provisional liquidation and, instead, been put into business rescue, but it is by no means out of the woods. Should the state-owned enterprise (SOE) have been provisionally liquidated, it would have seen its assets sold in order to pay all its creditors. Now, however, the aim is to rehabilitate the entity so that it can return to financial health and continue operating. If this fails, liquidation will be the next step. Kaya FM
GUEST - Siyabulela Makunga – Competition Commission spokesperson The Competition
Commission has referred a complaint against Sasol Gas to the Competition Tribunal for excessive pricing of natural piped gas in contravention of section 8(1)(a) of the Competition Act. The commission said it found that Sasol Gas extracted mark-ups of up to 72%.
The excessive pricing has continued for almost a decade and is ongoing, it said. “Natural gas is used as an alternative source of energy to electricity and is used by industrial, commercial, and domestic customers. “Sasol Gas is the only supplier of natural piped gas in South Africa and supplies gas to gas traders and end-users in the country through a network of transmission and distribution pipelines,” the commission said.
Sasol Gas sources natural gas from the Pande and Temane gas fields in Mozambique through an 865km long pipeline that transports the gas from Mozambique to Secunda. Publicly available information indicates that the Pande and Temane gas fields in Mozambique are likely to start declining in 2025 and are likely to be depleted between 2029 and 2030. Kaya FM
GUEST – Amanda Cromhout - CEO of Truth Cell
The loyalty industry is growing in leaps and bounds in South Africa after the explosion of more retailers offering these in the last four years, and more consumers are taking these up to either save or get money back to help with increases for basic necessities.
The loyalty industry refers to store cards that bulge our wallets, from the likes of Clicks, Pick n Pay, Checkers and other big retailers and banks, that we use to save a buck, get petrol or get cash back. As consumers have been faced with increasing costs for their basic needs, the use of these cards or programmes has climbed from 67% in 2015 to 73% in 2022.
The loyalty programme market is expected to increase from US$450.4 million (R8.72bn) in 2021 to reach US$857.3 million (R16.12bn) by 2026, according to the first quarter of 2022 Global Loyalty and Rewards Market Survey. Kaya FM
GUEST – George Kolbe, Head of Life Insurance Marketing at Momentum
Cardiovascular diseases reclaimed a previously held position as the leading cause of death claims for Momentum in 2022, but the life insurer has also seen a concerning rise in unnatural deaths, notably murder, especially among men. Announcing its 2022 statistics on Friday, Momentum's head of life insurance marketing, George Kolbe, said the insurer received some breathing space during the year as Covid-19-related claims abated, reducing the group's overall claims by 31% from 2021. But as the virus moved down the ranks, unnatural deaths claims moved up.
Men accounted for 82% of Momentum's unnatural death claims, which include accidents - mostly motor vehicle-related - as well as murder, suicide and surgery complications. But while car accidents accounted for most unnatural deaths among its clients, the biggest jump year-on-year was cases attributable to murder, which surged by 72% from 2021.
Suicides decreased by 7%. Accidents claimed just over a third of those who received payouts, followed by murder (20%) and suicide (19%). But for clients younger than 30, motor accidents are even more of a concern, claiming 67% of lives lost through unnatural causes.
While Covid-19 accounted for 12% of Momentum's death claims in 2022, unnatural death claims increased by 11% year-on-year, representing 11% of all pay-outs. It was ranked in the fourth spot for causes of death claims. Kaya FM
GUEST – Harry Scherzer, CEO, Future Forex
For most ordinary South Africans, the declining value of the rand over the past few years has been a big negative. It’s meant that everything from petrol to cars, electronics, and even your favourite sunglasses have gotten more expensive. There are, however, a few people for whom a weaker rand is a positive, most notably exporters.
That’s because, even if they charge the same price for the goods they’re selling internationally, they’re going to receive more money, at least in rand terms. And given that South Africa exports hundreds of billions or rands worth of goods every month, that can also be a net positive for certain sectors of the economy. But, even when exporters are winning on the exchange rate, they could still be losing out on valuable revenue.
That’s because of the way banks and other traditional forex providers charge for such transactions, with smaller and niche exporters especially impacted. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be that way. By choosing the right forex provider, exporters can enjoy even better returns on every order. Kaya FM
GUEST – Ernest North, co-founder at digital insurance platform, Naked
Insurance fraud. The words probably make you think about criminal syndicates staging vehicle crashes or people faking their deaths to get multimillion rand pay-outs. While these incidents dominate newspaper headlines, they form only a portion of the estimated R6 billion to R8 billion that the South African insurance industry loses to fraud each year.
A lot of fraud, if not most, takes the form of smaller claims from people who don’t think of themselves as criminals. It could be someone you know, like a friend who adds a Kindle they never owned to their claim after their home is robbed. “Many fraudulent insurance claims are made by people who think they’re telling a little lie to a big corporation,” says Ernest North, co-founder at digital insurance platform, Naked Kaya FM
GUEST – Tsakani Kevin Khoza - Simunye Livestock founder
When Tsakani Kevin Khoza realised that he was selling cows to the same clients who had bereavements almost every second week, he thought it must be costly for them and decided to create packages to ease the burden.
Not only did it save his business – Simunye Livestock – as he often had to give clients discounts but it went a long way in ensuring that grieving families are not hit in the pocket anymore. “Most of my clients are people who have funerals. What happened is I would get a client come to the farm in Westonaria [on the West Rand] to buy a cow because they have a funeral, only for the same person to come back two weeks later because they have another burial. We all know funerals are costly,” Khoza said Kaya FM
GUEST – Jashwin Baijoo, Head of Strategic Engagement and Compliance at Tax Consulting SA
For some time now, there has been murmurs of a tax revolt amongst South African taxpayers. For too many reasons to mention, South African taxpayers, sometimes publicly, contemplate the notion of disregarding their tax obligations.
The SARS Commissioner has taken note of the pervasive disillusionment amongst taxpayers and noted his concern at this year’s Tax Indaba. Kaya FM
GUEST – Muvhango Lukhaimane - Pension Funds Adjudicator
Key takeaways
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- When your employer fails to pay over contributions to your fund, the trustees of the fund must be notified. If they regard the employer's failure to comply as material, they must inform the affected members.
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- An employer's failure to comply with must also be reported to the Financial Sector Conduct Authority and the board must outline what it is doing to recover the unpaid contributions.
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- Employers are liable for interest on outstanding contributions at the repo rate plus 2%. · If contributions are still outstanding after three months, a criminal case must be lodged with the South African Police must be informed.
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- The responsible person at an employer can be held liable and face a fine of up to R10-million or imprisonment for up to 10 years.
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Directors' property can be attached to recover outstanding contributions. Kaya FM
GUEST – Mpho Mapoi – KAYANews Sports Reporter & Groovin Nchabeleng - Chairperson of the Black Agencies Network Association (BANA)
S Some years ago, women's sport sponsorship made up only 0.4 % of total sports sponsorship and a mere 7% of total sports coverage, according to the Women in Sport Charity. Sponsoring women's sport involves much more than a financial investment in players because it demonstrates an investment in equality and meaningful change within the sporting arena. Kaya FM
TECH & INNOVATION – 10 year-old SPARK School scholar develops a language learning app, Luthando App Kaya FM
GUEST – Waldo Marcus, head of marketing at TPN Credit Bureau
Commercial property landlords face mounting municipal costs – including rates, taxes and metered utility costs – which are often passed on to consumers through higher prices. The TPN Credit Bureau’s latest Rental Monitor Report for the first quarter of 2023 found that municipal costs now make up 61% of the total operating cost and 26.2% of the gross income generated by commercial property. “A staggering 29% of total operating costs go towards electricity, 25% towards rates and taxes and 6.7% towards water, sewerage and effluent,” reported the financial services company. As a result, businesses have been hiking prices which are reflected in increased consumer costs. Kaya FM
GUEST – Eulenda Lebese-Cussons who is the founding Director at Lebese-Cussons Attorneys
Given the fact that few people have the resources to buy a property for cash, and almost half of bond applications are still declined by banks despite the low interest rates, many South Africans have likely wondered if there is another way of buying property. The buyer must take transfer of the property anytime from one year after the date on which the contract is signed and can settle or secure the full amount outstanding and take transfer of the property. The good news is, there is - it is called an instalment sale and about 5 percent of property sales are currently concluded in this way. Kaya FM
GUEST – Simon Brown – Founder of JustOneLap
First, there are school uniforms and stationery to be bought, which can cost a packet even before school fees need to be paid. These will mostly be a monthly commitment, but many schools offer a discount if you pay the full year’s fees in January.
Even high-earninng families could be left struggling to pay private school bills as fees rise, experts have warned. Kaya FM
GUEST – Muzi Dladla - Sasria executive manager for stakeholder management
As eonomists and business leaders raise concerns about about a potential social unrest and riots on the back of elevated interest rates, inflation and load-shedding, we speak to Sasria executive manager for stakeholder management, Muzi Dladla to find out how the state-owned insurer has prepared for this possibility. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dondo Mogajane - CEO of the Moti Group
Caroline James - AmaBhungane Advocacy Co-oordinator
The Moti Group's clandestine High Court application to gag amaBhungane journalists from reporting on leaked files and forcing the media house to return the trove of documents was an egregious abuse of court processes. This was just one of the findings made by Deputy Judge President Roland Sutherland of the Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg who presided over the reconsideration hearing on an ex-parte order that interdicted amaBhungane from reporting on the documents, known as the "Moti Files", and that they be returned to the company. Kaya FM
GUEST – Ray-Ann Sedres is the Chief Transformation Officer at Sanlam
SA National Parks (SANParks) and Sanlam this week launched a R10 million programme to provide access to market, finance and business development support to small, micro and medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs) from communities surrounding South Africa’s major national parks. SMMEs that are contracted to SANParks and are interested in accessing the programme should liaise directly with the organisation’s Supply Chain Management unit at the Kruger National Park. Focused initially on the Kruger – one of the largest national parks in Africa – the programme aims to impact targeted
SMMEs as identified in the SANParks overall supply management plan and will run for a one-year period. The programme will offer short-term working capital through interest-free loans to SMMEs with whom SANParks can procure goods and services in and around the Kruger. Sanlam, Africa’s largest non-banking financial services group, will contribute, as part of its pilot programme, R10m in loan support, and development support will be implemented by I Am An Entrepreneur (IAAE), a leading enterprise development agency experienced in helping entrepreneurs build and grow their businesses. Kaya FM
GUEST – Paul Zimnisky, an independent diamond analyst
Paul Rowley is the Executive Vice President, Diamond Trading at De Beers [Clips]
Botswana and diamond miner de beers announced on Saturday they had reached an ‘agreement in principle’ on a new 10-year sales agreement. this came hours after the previous sales agreement expired on Friday, 30 June, so there must have been some serious nail-biting in the boardroom de beers and the government of Botswana, after lengthy and at times apparently tense negotiations, finally clinched a 10-year new sales deal to 2033 as the old one expired. de beers produces rough diamonds in Botswana, the world’s second-leading source of the gemstones after Russia, through Debswana, a 50-50 joint venture with the government. Anglo American has an 85% stake in De Beers Kaya FM
GUEST - Hetty The Entrepreneur
A mid-year reflection is when you take the time to go through all of the goals and intentions that you set at the beginning of the year and evaluate everything. A mid-year reflection allows you to become aware of what is working and what isn’t. It helps remind you to stay on track and gives you the opportunity to modify your goals. It is useful because many people make goals at the beginning of the year, but they don’t stick with them for longer than a couple of months. Kaya FM
GUEST - Andrew Levy – Labour Economist
Financial advisory firm PwC warned that elevated inflation and interest rates are social risk factors and social cohesion in South Africa may break down. This warning was contained in PwC’s South Africa Economic Outlook in June, highlighting the potential for social unrest breaking out in the country. The firm has previously warned of potential social unrest due to South Africa’s high unemployment rate and large social cleavages. A report published late last year noted that the growing gap between the ‘haves’ and the ‘have-nots’ is a key driver for the decline in social cohesion in South Africa. Kaya FM
GUEST – Parmi Natesan, CEO, Institute of Directors in South Africa (IoDSA)
Futuregrowth Asset Management recently raised concerns about the inordinate time it is taking to fill six vacant positions on the Transnet board. These concerns are valid and point to governance issues that should be seriously considered by all boards, says Parmi Natesan, CEO, Institute of Directors in South Africa (IoDSA). Kaya FM
GUEST – Kganki Matabane - Black Business Council (BBC) chief executive
The Black Business Council (BBC) will hold its annual Black Business Summit, Gala and Awards Dinner on the 29th and 30th of June 2023 at Radisson OR Tambo Hotel and Convention Center in Kempton Park, Johannesburg. The BBC continues to create a platform where members as well as senior leaders in business, government, politics and civil society engage on potential solutions for the prosperity of our beloved South Africa in order to create jobs and contribute positively to economic growth. The annual summit serves as our extension of the advocacy and policy work on socio-economic transformation matters. Kaya FM
Julia Modise is a seasoned HR Professional, with 25 years’ experience and has held HR leadership roles at an Executive level for 15 years. She gained experience from working in South Africa and in the USA, supporting operations in other countries in Sub-Sahara for Multinational and South African Organisations. Her broad industry experience spans Retail, Manufacturing, listed Property, Media and Entertainment and Consulting sectors. She is currently the Group Human Resources Director of BMW South Africa. Her experienced is backed by a Post-Graduate Diploma in Leadership, a Bachelor of Science Management, and a Diploma in Human Resources. Kaya FM
GUEST – Tracey Davies, executive director of shareholder activism organisation, Just Share
Shoprite’s CEO earned 1,081 times more than the company’s internal minimum wage in 2022 Several of South Africa’s largest publically-listed companies have major pay discrepancies between their highest- and lowest-paid employees. According to Just Share, wage gap disclosure in South Africa are not required by law, but several companies nationwide have started to release this information. “A common argument against pay gap disclosure in South Africa is that this disclosure will be ‘taken out of context’ or ‘misinterpreted’,” Just Share said. Kaya FM
GUEST – Lizo Mnguni, spokesperson for Old Mutual Insure & Relebogile Mashego - Assistant Ombudsman
Natural disaster? It’ll never happen to me. That’s a common perception among millions of South Africans – but with natural catastrophes on the rise across the world, you could be making a costly mistake if you don’t take steps to protect yourself and your property.
Damage caused by a natural disaster can be a devastating blow to your finances. Most South Africans focus on insuring themselves against robbery and break-ins, but don’t pay enough attention to protecting their homes and possessions against natural disasters. Kaya FM
GUEST – Lufuno Lisoga, Ifreecan-time pieces
The first Ifreecan product was a snake’s skin leather wallet handcrafted handstitched the founder’s grandfather over 99 years ago, where he killed a python that invaded his home, and turned it into a wallet. When the founder inherited the wallet in 2017, a conversation with his grandmother about restoring and evolving the family legacy and history inspired him to begin making his own product.
"I make time pieces, watches that are hand made, taken from the culture of South Africa. You can put your own pictures onto it, write your own messages, so we do unique and engraved watches. I believe this is a first, a South African watch that African's relate with. We are pushing African stuff here, making handmade products which dates back to our own history.’’ Says Lufuno Lisoga, founder of Ifreecan-time pieces. Kaya FM
GUEST - Katlego Maphai, Co-founder and CEO of YOCO
Yoco is an African technology company that builds tools and services to help small businesses get paid, run their businesses better and grow.
When Yoco went live with its card machines in 2015, it wasn't just a late entry to market, it was a full nine months behind many other entries. The founders weren't worried. They had a very specific business model and weren't going to let a noisy market distract them from their vision. In fact, instead of rushing, they spent the next year growing the business to 500 happy merchants. They were late to market, but getting the model right was more important than being fast. Kaya FM
GUEST - Jonathan Hoffenberg - PACES manager
KEY FINDINGS:
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33% said they are sometimes made to feel guilty by their employers when it comes to parenting commitments that clash with work time
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Managing the work-life balance was listed as the hardest thing about being a working parent, with 92% admitting to struggling at some point with it
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72% of the respondents are in a two-income household, so there is immense pressure on parents as they are being pulled in many directions - Working parents said they want more flexibility and hybrid work opportunities (57%). They would also appreciate more paid leave days for parenting commitments
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60% of the female respondents said that at one point or another, they’ve had to change their working arrangements to suit their childcare needs
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Managing stress levels around their kids was the number one area the survey respondents highlighted they wished to improve upon (48%). A further 33% admitted feeling guilty for not spending enough time with their kids, with a large number saying they want to connect more with their children
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Considering that over 53% of the respondents feel only somewhat confident in their skills as working parents, Hoffenberg points out that parents are desperately needing more support from the workplace. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dr Azar Jammine, director and chief economist at Econometrix
South Africa’s plan to provide its struggling power utility debt relief and potentially write off municipalities’ arrears to Eskom will ultimately improve liquidity and cut funding risks for the government, according to Moody’s Investors Service.
The proposed R254 billion of relief announced in February’s budget is aimed at strengthening Eskom’s balance sheet and covering all interest payments over the next three years, provided it brings in private partners to help operate its plants and the electricity transmission network. That would free up money for the utility to undertake plant maintenance and improve the transmission and distribution infrastructure as the country battles almost daily electricity rationing. Kaya FM
GUEST – Joanne Brink, Founder of TechWays and Project Lead at BRICS Future Skills
The SA BRICS Business Council is looking for South Africa’s best up-and-coming tech gurus to represent the country in the BRICS Future Skills Challenge. This year’s future skills Olympics will help solve problems that BRICS (South Africa, Brazil, Russia, India and China) face around energy, water and health. Kaya FM
GUEST - Howard Gabriels - The Credit Ombud
The Credit ombud says that they have received more than 30,000 calls in 2022. This is according to their latest annual report which revealed that they saved consumers R3.85m in 2022. If a sense of uncertainty pervaded the Office in 2020, followed by a “year in limbo” in 2021, the Credit Ombud found itself in calmer, clearer waters in 2022. This is not to say that we were not as busy as ever over the year, but we feel that we certainly struck the right balance in our mission of fairness in the credit. Kaya FM
GUEST - Grant Smee, MD of the Only Realty Group
Refinancing a home is seen as a last resort for many, but the recent succession of interest rate hikes and the rising cost of living has left many consumers in search of financial relief. Here’s what you need to know about the process. In a case where you wish to refinance your home, you’ll apply for a new bond on the same property based on its current value rather than its valuation at the time of purchase. By doing so, you gain access to equity: the difference between the amount owed on a home loan and the actual value of the property. Kaya FM
GUEST – Koketso Mano, FNB Senior Economist
Employment in the formal non-agricultural sectors of the economy, as shown by the Quarterly Employment Survey, contracted by 21 000 jobs or -0.2% q/q in 1Q23. Many of jobs shed were in trade, in line with post-festive season layoffs. Relative to a year ago, employment has fallen by 97 000 jobs or -1.0%, reflecting a weakening economy. Furthermore, the recovery in employment remains incomplete, with employment still lower by 259 000 or 2.5% compared to 1Q19. Kaya FM
GUEST – Jan Vermuelen, mybroadband editor
Naspers has released its annual financial results, reporting an over 46% decrease in profit from $18.5 billion (R318 billion) to $9.95 billion (R171 billion). Sister company Prosus posted a similar performance, with its annual profit decreasing from $18.6 billion (R319 billion) to $10.0 billion (R172 billion). The poor performance comes after the companies warned two weeks ago that they expect their headline earnings per share to drop by between 74% to 82%. Kaya FM
GUEST: Nothile Mpisi the Acting CEO of The Innovation Hub and General Manager of The Innovation Hub’s eKasiLab Programme
The Innovation Hub, the innovation agency of the Gauteng Province is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency. The Innovation Hub offers a number of incubation programmes in the Bioeconomy (agro processing and pharmaceutical), Smart Industries (ICT and advanced manufacturing) and Green Economy (Water purification, waste management and renewable energy). In addition, The Innovation Hub operates a range of enterprise development, skills development and innovation enabling programmes both in the science park and throughout the Gauteng region. Kaya FM
GUEST - Kagiso Lebethe - Senior Employee Relations Specialist
Studies conducted by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) on the abuse of alcohol and drugs in the workplace show that:
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- Absenteeism of employees with alcohol and drug problems was three times higher than for other employees,
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- Employees with chemical dependence problems claimed sick benefits three times more than other employees.
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- They also made compensation claims five times more than other employees. · 20% to 25% of injuries in the workplace involved employees under the influence of alcohol, and
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- Drugs and alcohol supplied at work cause 15% to 30% of all workplace accidents Kaya FM
GUEST – Steven Kaplan – President of the SA Institution of Civil Engineering (Saice)
Senior professional civil engineers in local government have progressively been replaced by young graduate technicians and technologists who are not being properly mentored to gain the experience necessary to perform the work, says SA Institution of Civil Engineering (Saice) president Steven Kaplan. Kaya FM
GUEST – Isaah Mhlanga - RMB chief economist
After the pandemic and war in Ukraine, and the inflation shock that followed, the global economy is in a precarious state. The last thing it needs right now is another nasty surprise. That’s what it nearly got at the weekend as disaffected Russian mercenaries marched toward Moscow, drawing a stark warning from President Vladimir Putin that the country was on the brink of a 1917-style “civil war.” The armed insurrection has been defused — for now — but the most serious challenge to Putin’s authority in 23 years could still usher in a period of turmoil and change. Kaya FM
GUEST - Roland van Wijnen – PPC CEO
SA's biggest cement maker PPC said on Monday its full-year loss widened in its year to end-March, hit by volume declines in its key markets of SA and Zimbabwe. Revenue, excluding dividends, increased 1% to R6.58 billion, with the company reporting a loss of R574 million, from R77 million previously.
The company was hit by R195 million in non-cash items, primarily relating to hyperinflationary accounting. Consumer inflation in Zimbabwe trended at triple digits for much of the year and reached 244% in December, according to the World Bank. Kaya FM
GUEST – Pogiso Dibakoane – Motoring expert
Buying a car might sound like a one time expense, but there are many recurring costs associated with owning a car. Aside from fuel, a car requires a trip to the garage or repair shop from time to time. Even with proper care and upkeep, vehicles need periodic repairs and professional maintenance. However, if you choose the right kind of workshop, you can extend the period between your visits. Kaya FM
GUEST: Manyatsa Nkutha – Youth Segment Lead at the Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa, (IDC)
The Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa, (IDC) is urging young people to become industrialists, and take full advantage of the various funding mechanisms that the IDC can support them with. He said: “The IDC recognises that the youth are authors of change and in charge of their own destiny. We encourage them to challenge the status quo and aim to participate meaningfully in the economy’s priority sectors such as mining, agriculture, and manufacturing. These are some of the key sectors that can unlock tremendous economic benefits for the youth, and combat the current high rate of unemployment amongst the youth”. Kaya FM
With an innovative mind and a burning passion for success, Lerumo Maisela is a mogul with an appetite for building businesses that change the landscape within their varying fields. As CEO of Kena Group, he administers a diverse portfolio of companies, namely Kena Outdoor, The Digital Plug, Mzala Print & Signs, Bush Telegraf, Over-The-Top Technologies, Floor Plan Projects, Waelese Media & Lejwe Industrial Supplies. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dr Leroi Raputsoane - Productivity SA Chief Economist
South African Businesses have cited energy security, inflationary pressure, global recession and socio-economic disparity as major obstacles to South Africa ‘s competitiveness. This is according to the 2023 World Competitiveness Yearbook (WCY) released today by the Swiss based Institute of Management Development (IMD) in partnership with South African government agency, Productivity SA. Kaya FM
GUEST – Solly Moeng is brand reputation management advisor and MD of strategic corporate communications consultancy DonValley
South Africa lost R1.5 trillion through corruption in just years between 2014 and 2019, according to the Unite 4 Mzansi's first case study titled State Capture 101. Unite 4 Mzansi - an initiative led by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (Saica) and business leaders - commissioned the Stellenbosch University's Centre for Complex Systems in Transition to analyse in much more depth how deep corruption ran in the countr Kaya FM
GUEST – Daan Wensing is the CEO and Chair of the Executive Board of IDH
IDH Sustainable Trade Initiative and African Food Systems Alliance today launched an initiative that will see South Africa move away from importing R20 billion worth of good and source from local farmers. The purpose of this initiative is to strengthen the African food value chain and grow the continent’s food systems above and beyond. Kaya FM
GUEST: Mbali Primrose Skosana - PrimHive founder
PrimHive is an online on-demand cleaning service platform created to connect cleaning service providers to customers. The platform, marketing, and advertising costs are managed by PrimHive, which allows cleaning service providers to focus on their business offerings and ultimately grow their customer base without worrying about too much else. Kaya FM
GUEST – Samukelo Zwane, Product Head, FNB Wealth and Investments
FNB has announced the findings of its inaugural FNB Retirement Insights Survey, and according to the survey's results, an alarming 89% of those surveyed plan to continue working or work part-time due to a lack of retirement savings. Kaya FM
GUEST –Thuli Phiri, the founder and managing director of The African Storyteller
Africa is a fast-growing market offering unlimited growth prospects for its local and international investors. In the last decade, the continent has seen an improvement in the number of investors making Africa their next investment bet. What are the basic considerations foreign investors should take into account in positioning their brands in Africa? Kaya FM
GUEST – Adil Nchabeleng – Energy Expert
A new fund to promote the financing of green hydrogen initiatives in South Africa was announced in Pretoria on Tuesday as part of a joint effort between the Netherlands, Denmark and South Africa.
The fund aims to capitalise on South Africa’s abundance of wind and solar resources, and its significant industrial capacity. With green hydrogen earmarked to replace natural gas, it plays a key role in plans to transition away from coal towards more sustainable sources of energy. Kaya FM
GUEST - Isaac Matshego – Economist at Nedbank
May's annual consumer price inflation slowed to 6.3% from 6.8% in April, with food prices finally cooling. May's inflation rate, which was also slowed by an easing in fuel prices, is the lowest since April 2022, Statistics SA said. It was also cooler than economists expected. The median expectation among economists in a Bloomberg survey was 6.5%. The consumer price index (CPI) increased by 0.2% between April and May. Kaya FM
GUEST – Hebron Maponya – Founder of GMC Creations
GMC provides advertising and marketing to the hair and beauty sector and fashion boutiques nationwide Kaya FM
Mabatho Sedileka – Head of Provincial Audit
The office of the Auditor-General has flagged the growing cost of consultants at municipalities. Briefing Parliament, she said the consultants cost municipalities R1.6-billion, which is an increase from the R1.3-billion previously paid Kaya FM
Since 2018 Metropolitan CEO Peter Tshiguvho has led Metropolitan, one of the largest financial services institutions in South Africa, on a journey of strategic financial growth and success. Below we chat to Tshiguvho about his career and journey, leadership and the positive habits that have led to his success. Kaya FM
GUEST– Kgomotso Chidzalo: Registered financial practitioner
Someone wise said, ‘Growing old is inevitable, growing up is optional’. Encouraging financial discipline and bringing in a sense of responsibility, enables people to build for their future. Kgomotso Chidzalo joins us to unpack how saving enables one to tide over emergencies. Kaya FM
GUEST – Miyelani Maluleke (Absa CIB Senior Economist)
Absa released its latest Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI), showing businesses in South Africa have little hope for the near term as business conditions deteriorated for the fourth consecutive month. The PMI is an economic activity index based on a survey conducted by the Bureau for Economic Research (BER) and sponsored by Absa. The monthly surveys are conducted under a representative group of purchasing managers in the South African manufacturing sector. Kaya FM
State Utility, ESKOM financial situation has deteriorated further, with the power utility reporting a R21.2 billion loss before tax for its last financial year — R7.6 billion more than it had budgeted.
This was reveal at the during a Parliamentary Meeting of the Standing Committee of Appropriations on Tuesday, 30 May 2023 Kaya FM
GUEST – Mbavhalelo Mabogo, CEO of Quickloc8
The Quickloc8 app is a real-time taxi fleet management application (app) the addresses a host of daily challenges faced by taxi owners, drivers as well as commuters. The application, founded by Mbavhalelo Mabogo, is a single-platform solution to some of the biggest headaches in the taxi industry. The Quickloc8 app can track a taxi in real-time and generate reports on the number of passengers for each trip as well as send alerts for over-speeding, and harsh driving through its Taxiloc8 feature. Kaya FM
GUEST – Liezel Gordon, Client Engagement and Team Lead at Metropolitan GetUp
Being “rich” means different things to different people — and it doesn’t always have to do with money. In fact, a 2018 GOBankingRates survey found that 49% of people surveyed defined being rich in a way that had nothing to do with financial wealth. According to the survey, 30% believe that being rich means living a happy life no matter how much money you earn, and 19% define wealth as having meaningful relationships with friends and family. Kaya FM
GUEST: Advocate Nompumelelo Seme - Property law and land reform scholar who taught Property Law and Customary Law at Wits University
In practice, the family house is often thrown into relief after a death. In the course of disputes over inheritance, immovable property takes centre stage. Opposed parties turn to the official administration of deceased estates in support of their own interests, and a key faultline of disagreement is whether the house will remain a family house. We see this at the point when an elder or a custodian has passed away, and there is no collective agreement on how the immovable property is to be dealt with. Kaya FM
GUEST – Marilu Smith – Research consultant at Red Fox Insight
Food is the biggest monthly expense for the majority of South Africa's taxi commuters, but despite high levels of unemployment, many are still able to make ends meet, either through a side hustle, a Sassa grant or through family support. This is among the insights from the latest Kasi411 taxi commuter data (March 2023), generated through a partnership between market research agency, Red Fox Insight, and Sebenza, a new digital platform that offers free Wi-Fi on over 2,000 South African taxis and busses nationwide. As the cost-of-living increases – with food inflation hitting a 14-year high in March of 14.4% – the impact of basic goods and necessary items is putting pressure on consumers’ pockets. So, it comes as no surprise that the Kasi411 data showed that food is the biggest monthly expense for almost half of 698 taxi commuters who were surveyed. Despite this, 42% said they still enjoy smaller luxuries, like purchasing games for their phones. Kaya FM
GUEST – Bertha Kgokong - Founder Tati Digital Software Development –
After graduating with a chemical engineering degree in 2004 and doing stints in corporate until 2017, Bertha Kgokong decided to venture into software development. Through her company Tati Digital Software Development, she has created numerous products including MobileGPT. The chatbot offers a wide range of services, including generating images and documents such as business plans, cover letters, and resumes. According to Kgokong, the challenges she has faced include having her accounts banned as a result of trying to promote Mobile GPT on social media platforms. Platforms that have banned her include the likes of Google, LinkedIn, TikTok, and Twitter which indicates that she has something great to offer the public and businesses. Kgokong further states that she sees chatbot technology like MobileGPT being widely adopted across many industries including education as people become better informed about its upsides, and sees the movement to AI usage creating more jobs than threatening them. Kaya FM
GUEST - Loyiso Boyce – Cybersecurity expert and MD of CLYROFOR
Justice minister Ronald Lamola, on Friday, 19 May 2023, gazetted a five-year exemption from the Regulation of Interception of Communications and Provision of Communication-related Information Act (RICA), effectively giving police the right to use a range of what would otherwise be illegal surveillance devices. The exemption means the South African Police Service (SAPS) can buy and use signal interception devices to access details about any cellular device in a given area — approval for which previous Justice ministers consistently withheld.
Among these are International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI) catchers, or “grabbers” — eavesdropping devices masquerading as regular cellular towers that harvest data from every mobile device connected to them. Theoretically, the police will be able to map the data gathered in this way to a person’s identity, as RICA requires telecommunications service providers to collect identifying information when you sign up Kaya FM
GUEST – Professor Mark Swilling is Co-Director of the Centre for Sustainability Transitions at STELLENBOSCH University
In November 2021 four Western governments plus the European Union (EU) announced at the COP26 meeting in Glasgow that $8.5-billion would be made available to accelerate South Africa’s energy transition. The UK, US, French and German governments plus the EU formed the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) after a lightning visit of climate envoys shortly before the COP26 meeting. The World Bank’s Climate Investment Funds (CIF) facility has positioned itself as the de facto coordinator of the JETP. The original $5-billion pledge was increased to $8.5-billion after the President insisted the amount be increased. Initial reactions by those associated with South African financial institutions were positive, mainly because it was assumed that this funding was either a grant or very cheap funding Kaya FM
GUEST – Lyndon and Alexis Johnstone – Marriage and business coaches
It doesn’t take long for a couple working together in business to discover the pros and cons. Every couple has their own dynamic in the triangular relationship between each other and the business. The last thing you want is for the third part of that triangle—your business—to ruin your marriage. Being in business with your spouse does lead to unexpected challenges. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dr Azar Jammine, director and chief economist at Econometrix
Stats SA has published the latest inflation numbers for South Africa, showing annual consumer inflation slowed to 6.8% in April from 7.1% in March. This is the lowest reading since May 2022, when the rate was 6.5%. The decrease in inflation was also larger than market expectations, where economists pegged the rate at 6.9%. However, the inflation rate remains outside the South African Reserve Bank’s target range of 3% to 6%. Core inflation – excluding food and non-alcoholic beverages and fuel and energy – also remains at its higher levels at 5.3% Kaya FM
The average consumer in South Africa is in a desperate and highly indebted position, which is significantly denting their intent to purchase either a new or used vehicle plus other products. This was one of the major themes to emerge from a webinar and panel discussion last week about the Deloitte 2023 South African Automotive Consumer Study.
According to Deloitte global automotive research leader Ryan Robinson:
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About one in four consumers in South Africa is concerned about making coming payments; ·
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More than two-thirds of consumers are concerned about the amount of money they have saved; and
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Almost one in four consumers is concerned about the amount of credit card debt they are carrying. Kaya FM
Edite Teixeira-Mckinon, Deputy Ombudsman for Short-term Insurance
With the lifting of the dark clouds of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Ombudsman for Long-term Insurance (OLTI) and the Ombudsman for Short-term Insurance (OSTI) are looking ahead and planning with optimism.
In a joint Annual Report, which has as its theme “Shaping our Tomorrow”, the two insurance dispute resolution schemes said a highlight of the 2022 financial year has been the granting of recognition as industry ombud schemes by the Ombud Council in terms of section 194 of the Financial Sector Regulation Act, 2017.
The Ombud Council has a mandate to oversee financial ombud schemes and assist in ensuring that they provide customers with access to affordable, effective, independent and fair alternative dispute resolution processes for financial complaints.
Much progress was also made during the year towards the amalgamation of the four industry ombud schemes, being OLTI, OSTI, the Ombudsman for Banking Services and the Credit Ombud. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dr Bheki Mfeka - Economic Advisor and Strategist at SE Advisory
[Dr Mfeka is also a former economic adviser to the Presidency]
The South African government has spent R331 billion on bailouts for state-owned enterprises since 2013/2014, of which Eskom accounted for 55%. This data was revealed in a presentation to the Standing Committee on Public Accounts on state-owned company (SOC) bailouts and government guarantees. Kaya FM
GUEST – Bernard Mofokeng, Director & Head of Tax at CMS South Africa
Listed asset management firm Coronation Fund Managers suffered a 97% plunge in its headline profits as a costly tax case relating to its Irish operations ate into its earnings. The company reported its half-year financial results on Tuesday and said headline earnings per share fell to 6.2 cents for the period ended 31 March 2023, down from 199.1 cents during the comparative interim period. In February, the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) ordered Coronation to pay the South African Revenue Service (Sars) additional taxes linked to its Irish operations Kaya FM
Zimbabwe sold $40 million worth of its gold-backed digital currency, the country’s central bank has revealed. The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) plans to conduct a second sale despite the International Monetary Fund (IMF) warning. RBZ first introduced the digital currency in April 2023 as the bank’s latest effort to rein in the country’s hyperinflation.
Zimbabweans can exchange their local dollars for the tokens to preserve their value and protect against exchange rate volatility, RBZ Governor John Mangudya said at the time. As local outlets report, the bank has sold 14 billion Zimbabwean dollars’ worth of the tokens (approximately $40 million). In a statement, the governor revealed that banks participating in the program received 135 applications for the purchase of the tokens, 132 in the local currency and three in U.S. dollars. The tokens are backed by 139.6 kilograms worth of gold held by the top bank. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dr Sibongile Vilakazi is the president of the Black Management Forum
A simple Google search of the definition of management shows that management is the art of getting things done. It is the administration of organisations, whether they are a business, a non-profit organisation or a government body.
It is the coordination and effective use of limited resources for production or to achieve a goal. Leadership on the other hand, is the act of guiding other individuals, teams or an entire organisation. The ability to inspire others to act in a particular way or to follow a specific direction. Looking at the state of our nation, the frustration stemming from challenges with the delivery of basic services such as maintenance of infrastructure, health care, safety and security and job creation; one always hears the lamentation and statements such as, “we have a leadership crisis in this country”, “we have great policies, but implementation is a problem”. The idea of management failure does not feature much in our psyche as a nation. This is because we put too much emphasis on position power, which we mistake for leadership and less emphasis on the art of getting things done, which is management. What if government was a business, who would be the leader and who would be the managers?
Positionally, the president or premier at provincial level would be the CEO and leader of the business, cabinet ministers or members of the executive council would be the executive managers of the business, director general and head of departments would be the senior managers of the business Kaya FM
GUEST – Songezo Masiso - General Manager: SME & Indirect Channels at MTN Business
The MTN's SME Day event to be held from 23 -24 May 2023, is an upcoming SME event aimed at fostering growth and providing essential resources to the Mzansi’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The two-day event, featuring a combination of physical and online components, will bring together industry experts, inspirational thought leaders, and innovative solutions to support the success of African businesses Kaya FM
GUEST – Rui Morais, CFO at Dis-Chem and CEO designate
Dis-Chem is the latest South African retailer to report rising costs associated with load shedding, as companies attempt to shield their operations from rolling power cuts by investing in backup power solutions. The pharmacy retailer said its strategic early investment in generator capacity has resulted in minimal disruption to its ability to trade, but its diesel expenses have increased by 65% to R91m for the 12 months ended 28 February. Kaya FM
GUEST – Gary Arnold, Astral Foods Chief Operating Officer
SA’s largest poultry producer Astral incurred R741m in load-shedding related costs in the six months to end-March, putting its balance sheet under significant strain. Investors reacted negatively to the results, with the share price falling 8% to R155.80 in its biggest one-day decline since late October, giving Astral a market valuation R6.6bn. The erratic power supply coincided with record-high feed costs to squeeze its profits during the reporting period, though Astral expects conditions to improve in the second half of the financial year as feed costs start to moderate. Kaya FM
GUEST - Thabiso Mamabolo
Renowned actor Cornet Thabiso Mamabolo known for his notable role as Tbose Maputla on “Skeem Saam” taps into the business world with a programme focused on nurturing young boys. When initiating the “Take a boy child to Work” programme with his business ally Johnny Modiba, the aim has been to be a beacon of hope to destitute schools.
This program seeks to empower young men to make wholesome decisions for their future while, encouraging them to stay in school, and furnishing them with skills and resources that would make navigating through school effortless. Kaya FM
GUEST – Roy Thomas, operations and logistics director at Hume International
The International Trade Administration Commission (Itac) has introduced substantial import duties on imported frozen potato chips from three European countries to prevent further dumping on the South African Customs Union (Sacu) market. The final duties against Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany range between 8.8% and 239% and will be effective for the next five years. The duties are substantially higher than the initial provisional duties that lapsed in January this year Kaya FM
GUEST – Tharshan Moodley, Virtual Distribution Head at Metropolitan GetUp
As the world weathers a growing financial crisis, socio-political instability, the post pandemic repercussions and major weather catastrophes, the impact on clients and insurers alike has been profound. South Africa has not emerged unscathed, and a combination of both global and local events is forcing the insurance sector and insureds to relook their approach to risk management and insurance. Kaya FM
Mr. Mashimbye is a qualified Financial Accountant, who studied at the Technikon Northern Gauteng (now known as Tshwane University of Technology) and the Technikon South Africa (now UNISA). He majored in Financial Accounting and Corporate Law and is currently in the process of completing his MBA studies. He has over 15 years’ experience in Accounting and Financial Management in both the private and the public sectors, having worked for Telkom, Edcon, the Department of Trade and Industry and Proudly SA.
He has also undertaken the role of Executive Manager: Corporate Services where he looked after all the support functions of the organisation. He also fulfilled the role of Acting COO for Proudly SA for a two-year period. He has served on the board of The Business Place and is currently a director on the board of the South African Savings Institute. Kaya FM
The announcement follows the release of Investec’s financial results for the year ended 31 March 2023, where it increased its dividend per share by 24%. Dividends per share grew from 25 pence (R6.04) in 2022 to 31 pence (R8.46) in 2023. The group said it achieved a robust financial performance over the financial year, despite the difficult macroeconomic backdrop. Adjusted operating profit totalled £835.0 million (R20.1 billion) in 2023, up from £687.4 (R16.6 billion) in 2022 Kaya FM
GUEST – William Gumede, Professor at the University of the Witwatersrand School of Governance
Eskom chairman Mpho Makwana says the utility’s board is reviewing several alleged “transgressions” that former Eskom CEO André de Ruyter had committed in media interviews and in his recently-published book. Kaya FM
GUEST – Vanessa Bukasa - CA(SA) & Vice President in Financial Risk Management and Governance at Absa Group
WE’VE ALL SEEN SOMEONE TANK IN A BUSINESS MEETING OR PRESENTATION!
We’ve all been to meetings that didn’t achieve what we hoped. For most of us, this happens daily! We know what it feels like to sit in a meeting feeling bored, annoyed or frustrated by the presenter and/or their content. Maybe at the time they didn’t grab your attention or they lost control of the meeting at some point. It’s not pretty regardless of whether you’re the presenter or the audience member.
The important question you should be asking yourself if you want to be even more successful in business is, have YOU ever been the presenter who tanked? Have you experienced leading a meeting that ended with you experiencing that sinking feeling that you’ve missed the chance, or you’ve let yourself (and your team) down? It’s awful when you realize that based on your own performance (and you can’t blame anyone else) there is no way on earth that your client would be willing to establish a business partnership with you. That feeling really sucks. And if your business partners or Board members were in the room while you were crashing and burning, or they just found out about it from your client’s feedback post-the-meeting, it’s a serious career-limiting moment – cringe! Kaya FM
GUEST: Dr Corrin Varady, CEO IDEA SA
The Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) for the first quarter of 2023 has revealed a 0.2% increase in the country's official unemployment rate, confirming the International Monetary Fund’s prediction that South Africa will have the highest jobless rate globally this year. In light of this, Dr Corrin Varady, CEO of ed-tech platform IDEA, questions whether the country’s unemployment rate is due to a lack of job creation or a lack of skills development. “Government is creating jobs and there are funds available to do so. But both the public and private education sectors need to make sure that we’re equipping the population with the right skills to be able to take on those jobs.” Kaya FM
GUEST – Reana Steyn, Ombudsman for Banking Services
The Ombud for Banking Services (OBS) says banking disputes regarding current accounts and internet banking remain high, despite banks making a greater effort to resolve consumer disputes internally.
In the OBS Annual Report 2022, Reana Steyn, Ombudsman for Banking Services, said 2022 significantly differed from the prior two years.
“As Covid-19 gradually loosened its grip on the front-page headlines, on business, and daily life in general, it became clear that the yearned-for returns to ‘normality’ and to ‘business as usual’ were taking new shape and being actively pursued by all,” Steun said. Kaya FM
GUEST – Nomvuyiso Batyi - CEO of the Association of Comms and. Technology(ACT)
South Africa’s mobile network operators have asked government for a diesel rebate and permission to collaborate on sharing power sources and security at their towers.
Through their industry association, the Association of Comms and Technology (ACT), the operators expressed their “deep concern” about the worsening status of load-shedding.
ACT members include Vodacom, Liquid Intelligent Technologies, MTN, Rain, and Telkom.
“Heightened and sustained levels of load-shedding in recent times have already resulted in a record quantum of energy shed by South Africa’s power utility Eskom in a calendar year — and we’re yet to reach halfway through 2023,” they said. Kaya FM
GUEST: Lee Naik, CEO of TransUnion Africa
Vehicle sales in South Africa dropped sharply in the first quarter of 2023 in the face of ongoing vehicle price inflation, declining consumer disposable income and negative consumer and business sentiment. TransUnion Africa figures show the number of financial agreements in the passenger vehicle market in Q1 decreased 12% year-on-year (YoY), with new car sales down 2.6% and used car sales down 17.7%.
What’s more, according to the information and insights provider, macroeconomic indicators suggest that there’s little respite for the embattled auto industry in the short term. Inflation climbed from 6.9% to 7.1% during the quarter, with used vehicle prices increasing from 7.9% to 8.1% in the same period. This trend is unlikely to reverse soon, with the current macroeconomic climate in South Africa of low growth rates, frequent power cuts, and decreasing disposable incomes making consumers and businesses more cautious, said Lee Naik, CEO at TransUnion Africa Kaya FM
GUEST – Mamokgethi Molopyane - Founder of Creative Voodoo Consulting
Daily, the country moves towards an unknowable future defined by despair and frustrations resulting from the exigencies of poisonous political careerism. The incompetence, greed, corruption and tendency to turn politics into a lifelong career has seen government work reduced to politicking. The country has changed enormously since the advent of the pandemic, presenting the average South African with uncertainty. There has been a significant increase in debt, joblessness, poverty and food costs. The pandemic and its impact on the global economy has also revealed South Africa’s vulnerability to external shocks – and government’s continuation of policy experimentation Kaya FM
GUEST - Alan Mukoki - Chief Executive Officer - South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Sacci)
The official unemployment rate increased by 0.2 of a percentage point to 32.9% in the first quarter of 2023, from the fourth quarter of last year, Statistics SA reported on Tuesday. However, what role should the business sector play in dealing with the scourge of unemployment in the country? Kaya FM
GUEST – Busi Mavuso - Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA) CEO
South Africa needs to undertake concerted efforts to restore positive relations with the US, business organisation Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA) CEO Busi Mavuso writes in her weekly newsletter. “Our economy is already damaged by so much, from loadshedding to crime. Adding a loss of critical trading relationships would further set back the effort to create an environment conducive to building businesses and growing the economy. It could be the final straw that breaks the back of our fragile economy,” she posits. Kaya FM
GUEST - Risenga Maluleke – Statistician-General, Stats SA.
The official unemployment rate increased by 0.2 of a percentage point to 32.9% in the first quarter of 2023, from the fourth quarter of last year, Statistics SA reported on Tuesday. However, this was due to a large number of people who classified themselves as "not economically active" in the fourth quarter, who instead categorised themselves as "unemployed" in the first quarter of 2023. "It was observed that a large number of persons moved from the 'not economically active' category to 'employed' and 'unemployed' statuses between the two quarters, which resulted in an increase of 0.2 of a percentage point in the unemployment rate to 32.9%," Statistics SA said. Kaya FM
GUEST – Tom Crotty, Lead Specialist, Technical Marketing: Risk Proposition Management, Liberty
As the world recedes to normalcy post the Covid- 19 pandemic, cancer has re-emerged as the leading cause for claims, according to insurer, Liberty's 2022 claim statistics. Last year Liberty paid out R6.98 billion in claims, primarily from its flagship Lifestyle Protector cover as well as other retail life insurance policies. These claim pay-outs were made to some 31,808 individuals and their beneficiaries. This represents a 31% decrease from 2021 when the insurer paid out R10.12 billion in claims. The reason for the decrease can be attributed to the reduction in claims arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. Claims related to the death of a client decreased by R3.14 billion, highlighting the severity of the pandemic during 2021. More specifically, there were only 191 COVID-19 related claims identified in 2022, compared to 1058 in 2021. Kaya FM
South Africa’s Competition Commission has approved Clicks Investments’ proposal to acquire Sorbet from Old Mutual Private Equity – with conditions. In November 2022, retailer Clicks announced it is set to acquire beauty salon franchise chain Sorbet for a cash consideration of R105 million. The deal will result in Clicks holding 100% of the issued share capital of all Sorbet group entities
Liberty's 2022 Statistics reveal the re- emerge Kaya FM
GUEST – Andre Cilliers, director and currency strategist at TreasuryONE
SA has grossly underperformed other currencies on a year-to-date basis. SA’s risk profile has deteriorated and funds now have greater ability to invest abroad thanks to Reg 28 changes governing pension funds. The combination has clouded the outlook for the ZAR that turned unexpectedly bearish earlier this year. Later this year, some of that underperformance could unwind. Kaya FM
GUEST – Shameel Joosub, the Vodacom Group CEO
Vodacom has announced a 17.2% increase in Group service revenue (up 7.2% excluding Vodafone Egypt) and a net profit of 2.1% in its preliminary annual results for the financial year that ended on 31 March 2023, despite the economic impact of load shedding. Shameel Joosub, the Vodacom Group CEO, said that load shedding, start-up losses in Ethiopia, the costs of mergers and acquisitions – such as the Vodacom Egypt acquisition for R43.6 billion – and higher inflation across its markets affected the net profit growth of 2.1%. In South Africa, the overall operating profit dropped by 1.2% due to higher depreciation and amortisation Kaya FM
GUEST – Andile Stofile - Leads Public Policy and Government Affairs strategy for Microsoft South Africa
The role of business in society is that of a lending hand. Today, the global role of corporations rivals that of national or local governments. In 2000, it was reported that, of the 100 largest economic organizations in the world, 51 were corporations and 49 were countries Kaya FM
GUEST – Mlondi Mdluli, IRR Campaign Manager & Gregory Mofokeng, CEO of the Black Business Council for the Built Environment
The Institute of Race Relations (IRR) warned that load-shedding would continue to worsen if the government refuses to put value for money before race-based procurement. The IRR has written to Minister of Electricity Kgosientsho Ramokgopa to underscore the urgency of implementing the Zondo Commission’s recommendation of putting value for money first. Minister Ramokgopa’s warning that stage 7 or even stage 8 load-shedding was now possible shows that South Africans should brace themselves for worsening power cuts this winter. Kaya FM
GUEST – Witness Mdaka is a property investor, author and serial entrepreneur.
When looking for your next property investment, the township property market may not jump to mind. But you could be missing out on an opportunity. Townships are becoming more sophisticated and ultimately transforming themselves from little townships to fully functioning suburbs. What makes the township property market so appealing and how do you get a piece of the action? Kaya FM
GUEST - David Hurwitz, CEO of Transaction Capital
Shares of SA's biggest taxi financier and Transaction Capital plunged another 17% on Wednesday, after it delivered a profit fall that was worse than guided. It reported a loss of almost R1.9 billion for its half-year, from a profit of R615 million previously. The company didn't declare a dividend. Core continuing earnings per share, the group's preferred profit measure which excludes certain non-operational items, fell 48% in the half-year to end March, worse than the up-to 46% it warned of in March. Kaya FM
GUEST – Mpumi Tyikwe – CEO Of South African Special Risks Insurance Association (Sasria)
SA's special risk state-owned insurer has withdrawn circulars announcing that it will no longer provide cover for damage to property caused during riots and protests in the event the electricity grid collapses. At the end of last month, Sasria issued circulars announcing that it would not indemnify people and businesses from "any loss, damage, cost or expense, directly or indirectly caused by, arising out of, in any way or to any extent contributed to by, or in connection with electricity grid failure". This exclusion applies to "any riot, strike or public disorder (including civil commotion, labour disturbances or lock-outs)" that are directly or indirectly caused by the grid failure. Kaya FM
GUEST - Tebogo Paul Tsholo- Metropolitan Branch manager
Ongoing load shedding is affecting every sector of society and business including the funeral industry. Various economic factors and challenges like load shedding have meant the rising cost of doing business in the funeral industry. Aside from crime, load-shedding is also putting a strain on funeral parlours. People are being asked to bury their loved ones quickly to avoid bodies decaying, because keeping the cold-storage running during load-shedding is expensive. Kaya FM
GUEST - Waldo Marcus, head of marketing at TPN Credit Bureau
Aggressive interest rate hikes are expected to slow down residential property value growth, but well-positioned properties are expected to show improved rental returns says TPN Credit Bureau. Kaya FM
GUEST – Amilah Costandius, Senior Manager: Strategy and Business Design at Deloitte Africa
South Africa’s savings rate is below that of its emerging market peers and is one of the lowest in the world at only 0.5%. This was revealed by Deloitte’s South African Investment Management Outlook 2023. The national savings rate measures the income households, businesses, and governments save. It is the GDP that is saved rather than spent in an economy. Kaya FM
GUEST: Leila Patel is professor of Social Development Studies, University of Johannesburg
Although social grants are spent largely on food, there is growing evidence that they are also used for productive investments in livelihood activities. These are actions people undertake to meet their basic needs such food, shelter and clothing. Recipients find various ways to “grow” their grant by engaging in informal work and other income generating activities. Kaya FM
GUEST - Osbourne Molatudi – Employment Law Specialist
How to be successful at a disciplinary hearing A disciplinary hearing is likely to be a challenging experience for all concerned. It is common for individuals, who are the subject of the hearing, to feel as though there is nothing that they can do to influence the outcome but thinking that way would be an error which could have damaging consequences. Similarly, those overseeing the disciplinary hearing may know that a hearing is necessary but not appreciate what steps should be followed in order for the hearing to be effective. This blog will consider the question ‘how to be successful at a disciplinary hearing’ both from the perspective of the individual and the organisation. Kaya FM
GUEST: Boniwe Dunster – HR Professional and career expert
The Robert Walters' annual Salary Survey shows that only 25% of employees discuss salaries with colleagues. The subject is still often avoided because it can bring problems and jealousy. Why should you, for example, earn less than your colleagues, or vice versa? For many, it is something of an unwritten rule not to talk about it too much. Kaya FM
GUEST – Wayne Duvenage - CEO of OUTA
Adil Nchabeleng – Energy Expert
Government will lodge an urgent appeal against a ruling that it prevent load shedding for schools, healthcare facilities and police stations within 60 days. This step is to avoid "undue risk" to the country's grid, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Public Enterprises on Monday. The North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria made the ruling to exempt these facilities of load shedding last week Friday. Kaya FM
GUEST – Simon Brown – Founder of JustOneLap
RECENCY BIAS, WHERE THE EVENTS OF RIGHT NOW CLOUD OUR MEMORY OF THE MORE DISTANT PAST AND THOUGHTS OF THE FUTURE, IS A DANGEROUS FACTOR IN DECISION-MAKING, WHETHER YOU ARE BUYING A HOUSE OR A SHARE As humans we are a mess of contradictory cognitive biases that often cause us to make poor decisions, even as we think we're evaluating the available data with a clear head.
Recency bias is perhaps the worst of the many cognitive biases. Simply put, it means we give recent events far more importance than they actually deserve, while ignoring or downplaying older, as well as future, data points. One recent example was in 2021, when the local prime rate was at multidecade lows. This resulted in many people buying houses, because the low rates meant they could afford to do so. The problem is that a quick glance at the longer trend of local interest rates would have shown that the extremely low rates were not likely to last Kaya FM
GUEST Andrew Konig – REDEFINE Properties CEO
Redefine Properties – one of the country’s biggest real estate groups with R94.1 billion in assets under management and R60 billion of which is in South Africa – reports in its half-year results that net diesel costs had a 1.5% impact on its earnings. It is the latest group to highlight the impact of load shedding and SA’s power crises on its business and ESG (environment, social and governance) goals. According to Redefine’s interim results presentation published on Monday, the group’s average net diesel costs come to R35 400 per hour across its SA portfolio Kaya FM
GUEST: Pogiso Dibakoane – Motoring expert
We’ve all been there. We’ve all looked at an invoice for a repair and asked, “Is this really worth fixing my car?” Maybe the results of the MOT are in and you’re going to need to stump up a few thousand rands for your car to pass. Kaya FM
It is not uncommon for people, investors and businesses to suffer financial losses as a result of sub-standard professional advice offered by financial service providers, as defined in the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Act (“FAIS Act”). In some instances, a financial advisor is not duly qualified and/or adequately experienced. Sometimes, it has nothing to do with qualification and experience, however, the advisor does not fully understand and appreciate the risks associated with the financial product in respect of which s/he is giving advice. Against this background, it is crucial that individuals, investors, and businesses are aware of their legal recourse in such cases. Kaya FM
Sithembile mastered her working life as a radio and TV producer before joining South Africa’s Metrorail communications team, where she was project manager for the Soweto Business Express. She then moved to Siemens where she rose to become Head of Government Relations for Africa. Sithembile obtain her media studies degree at Rand Afrikaans University and studied MBA at the Milpark Business School.
She has been running her own company since 2013 advising companies like Tiger Brands on corporate affairs and communications, with her latest project being in South Africa’s Northwest Province running an ambitious programme to address the exclusion of township and village entrepreneurs from the economy. As well as her skills in corporate affairs, she brings a wealth of purpose-driven experience including being the Chairperson of African Youth For Climate Change at the UN Climate. Kaya FM
GUEST: Charleen Rix, Head of Healthcare at Sasfin Wealth
What we initially thought may be a few months of inconvenience has turned into something much more prolonged and intense. The cost of living in South Africa is becoming more expensive each year and this has been exacerbated by the frailty of the economy and compounded by COVID-19. Because of this, many people are under significant financial strain at the moment. With this in mind, it may be tempting to consider cancelling your medical scheme membership, but this could have far-reaching negative results. Kaya FM
GUEST – Zeph Nhleko - Chief Economist at DBSA
Africa now does not have a functioning integrated public logistics infrastructure anymore, with roads, rail, and ports all in disarray. The lack of infrastructure maintenance, corruption in which dodgy black economic empowerment companies have been gifted tenders and often build flimsy infrastructure and cadre deployees without the necessary technical skills who have poorly looked after public assets have now snowballed into the breakdown of the entire public infrastructure - causing a system failure. This means South Africans will begin to see the rapid collapse of infrastructure, the damage from disasters. Kaya FM
GUEST: David North, Chief Business Transformation Officer at Pick n Pay
Pick n Pay says it has delivered an “encouraging performance” in its financial results for the year ended 26 February 2023, despite the damaging impact of load shedding on its bottom line. The group said that its underlying earnings were ahead of the broadly flat guidance in previous communication to the market; however, the additional costs of running diesel generators, especially in the second half of the trading year, affected profits. The group’s turnover increased by 8.9%, with Boxer’s sales growing by 20.2%. Boxer also opened 60 new stores, with 200 additional stores expected by FY26. Kaya FM
Guest: Renaldo Phillips, Head Buyer of Private Label and Imports at Checkers.
Checkers and PRIME have used an established sales and marketing trick called price anchoring to convince people that paying R39.99 for a sports drink is good value. Price anchoring is a strategy where an initial price for a product is set, typically very prominently, to tell people what a product is worth Kaya FM
GUEST - Mothunye Mothiba - Productivity SA Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
South Africa's ranking on apparent labour market inflexibility (129th out of 138 countries according to the World Economic Forum Competitiveness rankings 2016/2017) suggests that businesses perceive South Africa to be a rigid operating environment. Is this justified and can employers limit their exposure to the cost inherent in paid public holidays? Kaya FM
GUEST – Cacisa Mgudlwa, a Property Expert
As those that invest in real estate already know, purchasing properties can be a game changing investment. Not only can it help to secure passive income, it can give you a solid piece of collateral that can appreciate and eventually, return far more than what you originally paid. And especially if real estate is working for you, the idea of teaching your children about the value of investing can often be a major goal. Kaya FM
GUEST – Corne Welman, Franchise Principal and Certified Financial Planner at Consult by Momentum Points:
Be aware of an upward move in the interest rate, having an impact on your cash-flow if the interest rate rises as little as 1%, it increases your home loan rate (the interest rate paid on your home loan), which increases your monthly home loan repayments and this could put financial pressure on you. before you buy, you need to take into account that the interest rate could rise significantly over time. Kaya FM
GUEST – Nicky Weimar - Nedbank's chief economist
The underlying operating environment for businesses across the country is unlikely to improve amid an escalation in the frequency and duration of power outages, with the economy stuck at stages 5 and stage 6 load shedding, says Nedbank. In its latest Economic Monitor report, the group’s data showed that the country’s economy has been in the trenches, with a handful of market indicators from the last quarter painting a concerning picture. Rolling blackouts continue to damage business practices across the country in major sectors. According to the South African Reserve Bank (SARB), when looking at the percentage of business hours lost over 2022 due to load shedding, the industrial sector reported a 14% decrease, while the commercial and agricultural varied between losses of 11% and 12% of hours. Kaya FM
GUEST – Luigi Marinus, is portfolio manager at PPS Investments
The first quarter of 2023 started with a growing expectation of interest rate cuts by the US Federal Reserve not too far on the horizon. This did appear to be short-lived though but certainly increased fears of a US recession and the detrimental effect this would have on the rest of the world. Kaya FM
GUEST – Edward Makwana, General Manager of Legacy Motor Group
The pace of transformation within vehicle dealerships remains woefully slow, and urgent action is needed if the automotive industry is to achieve true transformation, warns Mpho Dipela, chair and shareholder of the Legacy Motor Group (LMG).
“A lack of diversity and representation in dealerships has become an increasingly pressing issue within the automotive industry. There are still only a few major black dealer principals within this space rather than achieving broad-based transformation and empowerment, and there is a particular lack of black and female employees at the middle to senior management level,” he says.
“Given the importance of the sector as an economic driver and job creator, industry stakeholders and particularly manufacturers urgently need to increase focus on skills development, job creation and ownership throughout supply chains.”
Demonstrating the significance of the sector, the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa) notes the automotive industry currently accounts for about 4.3% of South Africa’s GDP, 17.3% of the country’s total manufacturing output and represents the fifth-largest export sector. Kaya FM
GUEST: Tsametse Nkuta, Mental Health Specialist for Corporate Organisations
So much is written about happiness at work — yet judging from Gallup statistics that show 85% of employees aren’t engaged, few know how to attain it. Given that the average person spends 90,000 hours at work in a lifetime, it’s important to figure out how to feel better about the time you spend earning a living. Here’s the catch, though: If you set happiness as your primary goal, you can end up feeling the opposite. This is because happiness (like all emotions) is a fleeting state, not a permanent one. An alternative solution is to make meaning your vocational goal. Kaya FM
GUEST – Cynthia Schoeman is the founder and MD of Ethics Monitor
The giving and receiving of gifts is especially prevalent at this time of the year. This not only highlights the question of what is and is not acceptable and ethical, but also increases the potential for abuse.
In response to the possible negative aspects of gifts, many organisations adopt a no gift policy. Some companies that offer public services go as far as to issue press statements to remind the public that it is against company policy for their staff to accept gifts. Many other organisations accept that occasional gifts shared between people with whom the company does business is not unusual, but rather a part of normal social exchange. Kaya FM
GUEST – Phumlani Khulu and Kgotso Mokhatle – Co-founders of First 15 Brewhouse
First 15 Brewhouse The First 15 Brewhouse has its roots in a long standing friendship between the company’s directors; Phumlani Khulu and Kgotso Mokhatle. The name “First 15 Brewhouse” combines their schooling and sporting memories / experiences. It speaks to what they are passionate about.
The story goes; while attending an English medium high school in a predominately Afrikaans town. Every other rugby playing school had the words “eerste vyftien” inscribed on their first team rugby team jerseys. Of course, theirs being an English medium school, they had “First fifteen” on their jerseys. The name (First 15 Brewhouse) resonates well with the values and ethos of the company, that of: hard work, teamwork, dedication while also still having fun with your friends.The idea of owning their very own brewery was conceived when they visited a beer yard once, where they ordered some craft beer. It just so happens that they ordered a beer brand which was owned and brewed by one of their colleague’s sister. Kaya FM
GUEST – Sipho Mabaso – HR Specialist
New data sheds light on growing disconnect between workers and HR leaders. Three in 10 employees don’t trust their HR manager. That’s according to a new survey that found 34% of employees wouldn’t approach their HR representative because of sheer mistrust.
Why? Much of it is because of a lack of comfortability, according to ARRIS Composites, which did the survey. Even if employees do trust their HR, one in three survey respondents say they don’t feel comfortable bringing up workplace issues. Kaya FM
GUEST – Julia Makhubela – Founder of 54twentyfour
Unconscious bias influences many aspects of our lives, from the car you drive to the employee you decide to promote. While we are often unaware of our unconscious or implicit biases, we carry them into every situation, even the workplace. Unconscious bias refers to a bias we are unaware of, formed without intent as we go through life.
These deeply subconscious attitudes are influenced by our background, cultural environment and personal experience. Unconscious biases can affect the perception and perspective of many things, including race, gender, appearance, age, and wealth. Kaya FM
Guest - Dr Azar Jammine, director and chief economist at Econometrix & Lebogang Montjane, Executive Director, Independent Schools Association of Southern Africa
Parents and guardians will have to pay more for their children’s education as the country’s cost of living crisis persists. This was brought to light by Statistics South Africa when it released the consumer inflation figures on Wednesday. Consumer inflation increased again in March to 7.1%, with food prices continuing to climb while consumers feel the pinch. This month’s data also included education fees, which are surveyed in March every year. Overall, fees increased by 5.1% this year, which was higher than last year’s recorded increase. Kaya FM
GUEST – Litha Hermanus – Managing Director of Business Unbound Book Club
Commercially published author Litha Hermanus has started the Business Unbound Book Club - a book club that fosters financial investment for families and the children who read with the club. Kaya FM
GUEST – Mphuthi Mphuthi - Chairperson of Soweto Business Access & Bulelani Balabala – Founder of Township Entrepreneurs Alliance
Should black people go out of their way to support black-owned business? Maggie Anderson says they should. Blacks spend less money in black-owned businesses than other racial and ethnic groups spend in businesses owned by members of their groups, including Hispanics and Asians. A report by Nielsen and Essence estimates that black buying power will reach $1.3 trillion in the next few years, yet only a tiny fraction of that money is spent at black-owned businesses. Unless black people devote more attention to building wealth within the black community, Ms. Anderson and others contend, they will always be behind. Supporting black businesses is still important today as it was when the idea was first conceived. But it must be navigated today in a way that’s a little bit different than in days past Kaya FM
Pressure GUEST – Rhys Dyer, CEO of the Ooba Group
South African consumers may be feeling the pinch following a further two interest rate hikes in the first quarter of 2023, but ooba Home Loan’s Q1 2023 oobarometer indicates that there are still opportunities in the property market.
The latest data released by the country’s leading home loan comparison service indicates that homebuyers continue to take advantage of the competitive lending environment and attractive interest rate discounts offered by the country’s major banks. Rhys Dyer, CEO of ooba Home Loans elaborates: “With interest rates now close to peaking, growth in property prices remaining subdued relative to household earnings and the continued willingness of banks to extend credit to homeowners, conditions remain favourable for those with a long-term view to property purchase.” Application volumes resemble pre-COVID levels Kaya FM
South Africa has a more globally integrated financial system when compared to other countries that have been previously greylisted, and, as a result, it must be treated uniquely, says financial services firm PwC. In its latest Economic Outlook report for South Africa, PwC said that historically when a country is greylisted, there is a significant drop in total capital flows. However, the fact that South Africa has a more open economy and greater foreign investor participation, it is difficult to estimate the potential impact on the overall economy, it said. Kaya FM
GUEST – Tshepo Kgadima, Energy Expert
Discussions between legal teams from the Presidency, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, and the Department of Public Enterprises are the last stumbling block before President Cyril Ramaphosa proclaims powers to aid his electricity minister in his mammoth task of solving South Africa's load shedding problems. Kaya FM
GUEST – Karl Gevers, Independent analyst.
LVMH, the French luxury goods group behind Louis Vuitton and Moët & Chandon champagne, has become the first European company to hit a $500bn (£400bn) market value thanks to booming demand among the rich for its high-end brand. Kaya FM
GUEST – Funeka Ngewu, Head of Claims at Momentum Insure
With the looming possibility of stage 8 load shedding and persistent stage 6 load shedding, South Africa is in for a difficult winter. As temperatures drop, power demand will increase, and misery will kick in for those who cannot afford power-generating alternatives, and for those who can, they will be streaming to market for alternatives to get off the grid. This dire situation has driven some people to look to inverters as another way to dodge blackouts. However, this can be detrimental if safety procedures are not followed when procuring and installing power-generating alternatives. Kaya FM
GUEST – Vumi Msweli – Founder of Hased Consulting
Congratulations, you’ve received a job offer. And now that you’ve handed in your resignation, your current company is fighting for you and offering you more money. Should you stay? Or should you go? Deciding whether or not to accept a counteroffer can be difficult and there are many factors to consider. Your choice is likely to have a significant impact on your career so shouldn’t be taken lightly. Kaya FM
GUEST – Linda Thahane, Director of Jotela Mtika Consulting
THE EMPLOYMENT BACKGROUND CHECK Employers run history checks on their candidates for various reasons. For instance, by reviewing a person’s criminal past, a hiring manager can assess the level of risk that a candidate might pose if given the job at hand. In some cases, a person’s criminal past may even preclude them from working a specific type of job, such as a registered sex offender interviewing for a teaching position. On the other hand, verification checks of employment, education, and credentials are an essential step for helping employers determine whether their candidates are qualified for the job at hand. Kaya FM
GUEST – Jeremy Lang - Chief Investment Officer at Business Partners Limited
Business Partners Limited has launched a R400 million Energy Fund for SMEs. Finance available will range from R250 000 to R2 million and can be used to buy solar systems, battery systems, generators, wind generators, inverter systems and related products. Kaya FM
GUEST – Bonang Mohale, president of Business Unity SA (Busa)
SA's state-owned enterprises (SOEs), critically wounded by the "nine wasted years" of the Jacob Zuma administration have not recovered. After four and a half years of Ramaphosa, the condition of several has deteriorated financially. Governance, which was to be Ramaphosa's hallmark, is poor, with long overdue board appointments not made and independent directors shifted into executive roles. Kaya FM
GUEST – Palesa Tabai, I’M IN Programme Lead
I’M IN is a pre-investment readiness programme founded by accomplished entrepreneur and private equity investor, Polo Leteka in 2015 to support black-owned, high-growth start-ups in the tech space on the African Continent.
I’M IN Entrepreneurial Programme has officially opened applications for the inaugural Ideation Incubator, exclusively targeting female students with technology start-up ideas. Over a 3-month period, the selected qualifying female students will receive an equity-free investment of R50,000 in the form of a participation stipend, data & laptop costs, business skills training and access to the I’M IN ecosystem. Applications Kaya FM
GUEST – John Manyike, Head of Financial Education at Old Mutual.
Love is what gets couples in front of the altar. But when the passion fades and relationships get rocky, the dreaded ‘big D’ often rears its ugly head.
“It’s unfortunately a time when many are pressed to get as far away from each other as quickly as possible. The trouble is that when emotions take over, hasty decisions are made. It is only when things have cooled down that the actual financial cost of a divorce becomes obvious,” says John Manyike, Head of Financial Education at Old Mutual. Kaya FM
Prof Legwaila has over 18 years of experience in the tax environment – 14 years in management and 13 years of executive experience. He joins the OTO after spending a number of years at Citibank, where he held several positions, including Senior Vice President Head of Tax: Africa and Vice President. Kaya FM
GUEST – Grant Heyman, Marketing Coordinator of National Debt Advisors
South African women are more at risk of becoming indebted over rapidly depreciating assets than their male counterparts. To commemorate International Women’s Day, National Debt Advisors, one of the leading debt counselling companies in South Africa, shared findings from a recent assessment of their female client base to highlight the financial challenges faced by women in the country.
“At 36% of our entire client base, women are significantly less indebted than males, however the type of debt that they have is mostly unsecured debt,” says Grant Heyman, Marketing Coordinator of National Debt Advisors. Heyman explains that more than 99% of their female clients have unsecured debt, 80% have personal loans and almost 50% have credit card debt. “This is interesting to note as it speaks to how women primarily borrow for day to day living expenses as opposed to acquiring assets like their male counterparts,” says Heyman. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dr. Tim Maake - Managing Director at DTM Consulting
Deputy President Paul Mashatile says government acknowledges that debt relief alone will not return Eskom to financial sustainability, as the state works with municipalities to help settle mounting bills.
“A key assumption considered in the debt relief determination is the implementation of the recent tariff increase approved by the regulator. Without this increase, debt relief arrangement is not sustainable,” he said. Kaya FM
GUEST– Crystal Ngwako – Co-founder of The Movers
The Movers is a technologically advanced logistics business solutions and modern moving services through their mobile apps. The business idea came from the founders exploring different locations across South Africa and the stress that came with hiring a truck for their moving services. Kaya FM
GUEST – Ntsoaki Sibiya – Business Mentor
According to the 2013 Executive Coaching Survey by Stanford University, nearly 80% of directors said their CEO is receptive to coaching. Moreover, following a survey of 200 small businesses, financial technology company Kabbage reported that 92% of small businesses said mentors directly impact growth and the survival of their businesses. Kaya FM
GUEST – Siphamandla Mkhwanazi, FNB Senior Economist
Retail sales volumes for February declined by 0.5% y/y, marking a third consecutive month of annual decline. Retail sales continued to decline in February, signalling that consumers’ disposable income remains under strain from high inflation and interest rates, even though the contraction was less than market expectations. Kaya FM
GUEST – Seati Moloi – CEO OF KHOI TECH
Khoi is a technology business offering that specializes in consumer technology products and related software services. They specialise in consumer electronics and related software services.
Khoi Tech (Pty) Ltd was established in 2020 and undertook extensive two years research and development with leading international OEM’s to offer high quality consumer technology products and related software services. Our purpose is to take social-entrepreneurship to the next level by bringing to market innovative solutions that move the lives of Africans forward. Kaya FM
GUEST – Ynnis Wilson - Head of Rentals & Randburg Branch Manager at Jawitz
The City of Johannesburg says the total value of its new property valuation roll is 12% more than the current roll. This could lead to ratepayers, in effect, paying three times the rate of inflation more. If the City of Johannesburg goes ahead with its proposed tariff hikes based on new property valuations, ratepayers could, in effect, be coughing up three times the rate of inflation more. Kaya FM
GUEST– Hantian Zhang - Senior Lecturer in Media, Sheffield Hallam University
Have you been hearing about Prime for weeks on end? Perhaps your child is desperate to get their hands on some, and you just don’t understand why.
The drink has become a viral sensation that has prompted stores across the world to sell out.
In a recent Twitter thread, South African moms have opened up about being pressured by their kids into buying the ‘trendy’ and ‘pricey’ drinks. Kaya FM
GUEST – Gerrie Fourie – Capitec CEO
South Africa’s largest lender by clients, Capitec, has posted a 15% rise in full-year profits after the bank dished out more loans during the reporting period. The lender released its financial results for the year ending February 2023 on Tuesday, showing headline earnings of R9.7 billion, up from R8. 4 billion in its 2022 financial year.
The bank was one of the only lenders among its peers which saw a double-digit increase in loans and advances extended to its clients. Its credit book showed that gross loans and advances to clients jumped 16% to R97.8 billion, compared to R84.1 billion during the prior year. Kaya FM
GUEST – Mr Daryl Swanepoel, CEO of Inclusive Society Institute,
Road agency Sanral and the Gauteng provincial government may not be able to write off outstanding e-toll debt, leaving non-paying motorists sitting with their current tab. This is according to non-profit organisation, the Inclusive Society Institute (ISI), which has called into question the Gauteng provincial government’s plans to write off all outstanding e-toll debts, saying that it is not just or equitable to those who have diligently been paying their toll fees since 2013. Kaya FM
GUEST– Debbie Goodman, CEO at Jack Hammer Global
In recent years, the term gaslighting has entered the public lexicon after this toxic behaviour became better identified and understood in personal and romantic relationships. Less well-understood, is the fact that gaslighting is also a popular game played by bullies and narcissists in the workplace, and that this has a devastating impact on both the individual victim, as well as the culture and performance of teams and businesses, a leadership expert says. “Very few people – if indeed any – can claim that they have never felt stressed or anxious as a result of challenging workplace relationships.
Most working professionals have to manage complex relationships on the daily - perhaps with a colleague who is a jerk, with difficult clients or a boss that falls short in the compassionate leadership department,” says Debbie Goodman, bestselling author and CEO at Jack Hammer Global, Africa’s largest executive search firm. Kaya FM
GUEST - Arnold February - Regional Investment Manager at Business Partners Limited
Investing in commercial property has long been regarded as one of the ways that entrepreneurs can boost revenue and expand their portfolios as a buffer against economic uncertainty. With small business owners renewing their drive to recover lost profits during the pandemic years, commercial property presents a viable opportunity to reap positive returns in the near- to long-term future. Kaya FM
GUEST – Mark Barnes - Former South African Post Office (SAPO) CEO
Former South African Post Office (SAPO) CEO Mark Barnes’ proposal to save the now-bankrupt state-owned enterprise (SOE) and turn it into a national treasure still stands. The SA Post Office was placed under provisional liquidation earlier this year for failing to settle its enormous debt. The enterprise is technically insolvent and has lost money since 2013. It has been forced to close branches across the country for years and has had to cut thousands of jobs. Kaya FM
GUEST – Trevor Manuel - Old Mutual chair and former finance minister
Old Mutual chair and former finance minister Trevor Manuel has made a scathing assessment of the country’s political leadership, saying the time has come for government to get its house in order to resolve myriad challenges facing the country. Kaya FM
GUEST – Johnny Modiba – Founder of Mitch Sneakers
Within a few months of operations, businessman Johnie Modiba has seen his sneakers brand Mitch Wear grow in leaps and bounds. The Limpopo-born shoe manufacturer, who is based in Edenvale, Ekurhuleni, has taken the industry by storm introducing a sneaker that is durable, flexible, and affordable. Modiba’s experience in the footwear industry helped him in the designing the behind-the-scenes part, which is manufacturing Kaya FM
GUEST - Jashwin Baijoo, the head of crypto asset compliance at Tax Consulting SA
South Africa is sacrificing jobs and billions of rands in tax revenue because government refuses to legalise online gambling, Democratic Alliance (DA) MP Dean Macpherson says. While online gambling remains unlawful in South Africa, online sports betting with fixed odds is legal. Companies like Betway, Hollywoodbets and Sporting bet have grown so successful they are sponsoring South African national and provincial sports teams to the tune of tens of millions of rands. Kaya FM
SEIFSA COO Tafadzwa Chibanguza wants SA’s operating environment to be more business friendly. He joins us in-studio as our Pivot Point guest. Kaya FM
As the cost-of-living crisis continues to get worse in South Africa, consumers are gradually reaching the end of their financial ropes. Recent reports have indicated that more and more people are now turning to credit facilities just to make it through the month. With the new interest rate hikes, another loan and increased credit card debt is the last thing consumers need.
This comes after South Africans were forced to make difficult choices as their incomes – already stretched by the pandemic - have not been keeping pace with price hikes, with inflation reaching its highest level in 13 years. Kaya FM
GUESTS – Neale Hill - President of Ford Motor Company Africa
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Thebe Ikalafeng, founder and chairperson of Brand Africa and the Brand Leadership Group.
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Alan Mukoki - Chief Executive Officer - South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI)
President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged domestic and international investors to put their money behind SA despite the country’s energy crisis, which negatively taints international perceptions of the country and dents investor confidence.
This is as Ramaphosa leads Team SA in the last leg of the R1.2-trillion investment drive where the president conceded that load-shedding, which often leaves large parts of the country without power for up to 10 hours a day, and the long-standing blockages in SA’s freight and logistics sector, leads to low investor sentiment. Kaya FM
GUEST – Gareth Cremen is a Partner in the Business Restructuring, Rescue & Insolvency team at Cox Yeats
As businesses of all sizes, industries, and expertise scramble to keep the lights on and operations running, while weathering the simultaneously raging storms of economic uncertainty, limited access to credit, and high levels of competition, recent StatsSA figures on company liquidations indicate what appears to be a steep climb in the number of liquidations in the fourth quarter of 2022.
The impact of this state of play on small businesses, in particular, gives much cause for concern.
SMEs in South Africa represent more than 98% of business, employing between 50 – 60% of the country’s workforce across all sectors. And while the GDP contribution from SMEs lags behind other regions, there’s no denying the importance of small businesses to the lives and the futures of people who call South Africa their home. Kaya FM
GUEST – Kgomotso Moraka is the owner of Manolo Flowers
While the corridors of South Africa’s business capital may be flush with cash, a young entrepreneur saw the need to add some colour and a different kind of greenery to the fold.
Kgomotso Moraka is the owner of Manolo Flowers, a mobile flower business that found a niche servicing corporates in Sandton.
Having a life-long love of flowers, which she inherited from her mother, gave Moraka the vision to notice a gap in the floral industry that many had overlooked. Kaya FM
Entrepreneurship is one of the major lifelines of the South African economy and with the high unemployment rate, many people look to start their own businesses.
There are many facets to starting a business and it can be confusing to small business owners, which is what led one business owner to assist entrepreneurs.
Hetty Boachie-Yiadom, who goes by the name “Hetty The Entrepreneur, dedicates her time to guiding entrepreneurs to achieve their goals through results-based mentorship. Kaya FM
GUEST – Joseph Busha -founder and Managing Director of JM BUSHA Investment Group
Tupperware, the US maker of food storage containers, has warned that it could go bust unless it can quickly raise new financing.
The 77-year-old firm said there was "substantial doubt about its ability to continue as a going concern".
Tupperware has been attempting to reposition itself to a younger audience but has failed to stop a slide in its sales.
Its shares plunged nearly 50% on Monday before recovering slightly on Tuesday.
The firm became well-known in the 1950s and 1960s when people held "Tupperware parties" in their homes to sell plastic containers for food storage.
Tupperware still employs a direct sales force - who earn a percentage of all the goods they sell - as well as selling goods on its website. Kaya FM
GUEST - Isaah Mhlanga -Chief Economist and Head of Research at Rand Merchant Bank
The International Monetary Fund (IMF)’s April update to the World Economic Outlook has trimmed the global growth prospects for the year – including a sizeable slice off South Africa’s GDP forecast.
As announced in March, the IMF has cut South Africa’s GDP growth outlook to a paltry 0.1% for 2023, showing that the country is flirting with a full-year recession.
However, more damning is the fact that South Africa is the biggest loser among all major global economies detailed in the IMF’s report, having its GDP outlook shaved by 1.1 percentage points from the January report.
The only other major economy to come close to this is Japan, which the IMF forecasts will see a 0.5 percentage point reduction in its GDP rate to 1.1% in 2023. Kaya FM
GUEST – Roland Peens, director and business development manager at Wine Cellar
Champagne could be a better investment than gold and the S&P 500, having outperformed both in 2022.
The London Internation Vintners Exchange (Liv-Ex) reported that, between January and September 2022, a case of all-Chardonnay 2012 Salon Le Mesnil soared 232%, from £3,800 to £12,600.
The Liv-Ex Champagne 50 Index tracks the price performance for recent vintages of a dozen top brands. This index outperformed gold, the FTSE, and the S&P 500.
The Champagne 50 was up 21.6% last year and, for five consecutive months, was the best-performing sub-index of the Liv-Ex 1000. The number of Champagnes traded also rose 13.5% in 2022.
While the prices have since cooled down and even decreased, there is still hope for the Champagne market in 2023.
Tom Gearing, chief executive officer of Cult Wines,
told the Economic Times that he’s positive but cautious about the Champagne market for 2023. Kaya FM
GUEST – Miyelani Holeni - Group Chief Advisor at Ntiyiso Consulting Group
A municipal finances expert has raised the alarm about the continued decline of municipal-owned entities in local government.
Organisations such as Johannesburg’s City Power and Rand Water are meant to not only provide services to residents but are also historically cash injectors in municipal coffers.
However, this has not been the case in recent years.
Ntiyiso consulting’s Miyelani Holeni said evidence was pointing to a worrying trend where internal inefficiencies among other challenges had led to weakened municipality-owned entities.
“If you were to track the income that they used to make and the surpluses that they used to make, there has been a decline in both. That means that they are not contributing as they should be to the municipal coffers and the reason why you would have municipal-owned entities, is you would like to make things a lot more efficient.”
Municipalities have been buckling under pressure with more and more South Africans unable to foot their service bills due to the continued decline of the economy. Kaya FM
GUEST – Bulelani Balabala – Founder of Township Entrepreneurs Alliance (TEA)
Almost two-thirds of township businesses have been forced to shed jobs because of load shedding, according to a new report. But business owners say the situation is even direr – they face closing if the power outages continue.
According to the Nedbank Insights Report, conducted in partnership with the Township Entrepreneurs Alliance (TEA), 64% of small township businesses cease operations during load shedding and almost 66% of business owners have cut jobs because of load shedding.
The jobs cuts were most visible in the food and beverage sector, as well as manufacturing.
The report also found that load shedding has led to increased operating costs, lost revenue and declining margins. Kaya FM
GUEST – Michael Gladwin - president of AfriGay and EqualAfrica
Africa could lose significant tourist revenue if the LGBTIQ+ community stops travelling to the continent for fear of their safety. This was evident from a report launched last week at the Africa Travel Market expo in Cape Town. Of the 64 countries in the world that criminalise homosexuality, almost half are in Africa. According to the Africa Travel Week Trend Report for 2023, travellers who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer had more than R3.8 trillion in spending power, specifically with regard to travel, before the Covid-19 pandemic. However, discriminatory legislation and perceptions of LGBTIQ+ people in Africa are making them think twice before visiting certain countries on the continent, as they fear being arrested or assaulted. Kaya FM
GUEST: Vuyo Mhaga – Gauteng Government spokesperson
Mphuthi Mphuthi - Chairperson of Soweto Business Access
The Gauteng Provincial Government has committed to use 60% of its R34bn goods and services budget to support township initiatives. Delivering the State of the Province Address (Sopa) in the Provincial Legislature in Johannesburg earlier this year, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi said townships are the province’s
"new gold" and with new malls and filling stations being rapidly set up there, government must ensure these investments benefit the people. Kaya FM
GUEST - Freddy Makgato, CEO of the Franchise Association of SA
What are they questions that entrepreneurs should ask the franchisor before signing on the dotted line. Kaya FM
GUEST – Lungile Mashele – Energy Economist
The South African government has decided to end its National State of Disaster called on the ongoing electricity crisis after just over one month. According to SA Government News, the National State of Disaster has been terminated “with immediate effect” after it was challenged in the courts by the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA). The legality of the State of Disaster was also challenged by civil action group Solidarity.
According to EWN, the State Attorney had informed OUTA’s lawyers today that the government was withdrawing the National State of Disaster on electricity, and it would be paying OUTA’s court costs. “The national state of disaster, has been overturned by government and I guess it starts to ask questions as to why is government making these decisions without really applying their mind to the long-term consequences and the backlash that they are going to be receiving on a number of these matters,” said OUTA CEO, Wayne Duvenage. Kaya FM
GUEST – Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana & Israel Noko, CEO of NPI governance consulting
Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana says the exemption granted to Eskom allowing it not to disclose irregular and wasteful expenditures in its financial reports will not go ahead “for now”. Godongwana said the department would withdraw the gazette after consultation with the auditor general (AG) yesterday, 4 April, and the widespread public outcry. However, the minister alluded to the possibility of the exemption being reintroduced in the future. He said that the department will have a detailed consultation with the AG, Deloitte’s and Eskom’s auditors to tighten checks and balances for corruption. On Friday, Treasury published a gazette exempting Eskom from section 55(2)(b)(i) of the PFMA and Treasury Regulation 28.2.1 for a period of three years. Treasury explained that the exemption was given for several reasons, but primarily to protect the embattled power utility’s credit rating and audit opinion, which would have had a knock-on effect on the power utility’s financials and loans. Kaya FM
GUEST – Rachelle Best, founder and CEO of Heritage Vault
Millennials are the latest generation to reach that life stage when you realise that your ageing parents may now well need ‘roll-up your sleeves’ support from you. It’s a disconcerting turning of the tables, and it comes along with a mix of emotions and stresses. The fact that our parents are elderly and more vulnerable can worry us, frustrate us, and make us feel deeply sad. We may feel helplessness and guilt if we’re not able to do more for them because of our already demanding lives. This is not an easy part of ‘adulting’.
There are two things that help adult children support their ageing parents effectively. The first, is to educate yourself about the unique landscape of your ageing parents. This takes into account a full understanding of the impact of their age on their physical health and emotional well-being as well as their financial capabilities, level of home security and transportation needs. You want to have an objective, clear view of their situation so that you don’t act off your assumptions. The second, is to access tools, services, and solutions that you can deploy to help you to support them as best you can while preventing the responsibilities of parental care from overwhelming you and derailing your life. An example of a latest tech tool is Heritage Vault, a first-in-South Africa solution for organising and securing all important estate information, there’s no easier way to help collate all your parents’ important information. Kaya FM
GUEST Tshepo Mofokeng - Board Chair of The Institute of Internal Auditors South Africa
Eskom chairperson Mpho Makwana's quest to achieve an unqualified audit in the first year of the new board's tenure is what lies behind the unusual exemption from parts of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) granted by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana last week. The exemption from parts of the PFMA that require that irregular, wasteful and fruitless expenditure, no matter the reason, be disclosed in notes to the annual financial statements has raised suspicion across the political spectrum that Eskom is seeking to cover up corruption. A similar exemption was provided to Transnet last year, but went unnoticed. Over the past 24 hours, bits of information have leaked out in dribs and drabs, creating further confusion. On Monday evening, the Treasury eventually provided an explanatory note and released the letters between Makwana and Godongwana over the past three weeks. In its explanation, the Treasury said that irregular expenditure or losses due to corruption will still have to be disclosed in Eskom's annual financial statements. But Eskom will not be obliged to disclose all irregular expenditure in the financials. It will still have to disclose the particulars of all irregular expenditure, losses, recoveries, and so on in the annual report. Kaya FM
GUEST: Lebogang Lebepe – Founder & CEO of BizzHouse
Owning a home may be a lifelong goal for many South Africans but that doesn't mean it's for everyone. Homeownership rates are currently high in SA, but this hasn’t always been the case. Families have historically needed to either build their own homes or rent a home from someone else. Although it may not be ideal, renting does have its advantages, too. For some people renting might make more sense for their financial circumstances Kaya FM
GUEST – Kuben Naidoo is a deputy governor of the SARB
The South African Reserve Bank has established SA’s first deposit insurance body, the Corporation for Deposit Insurance (CODI), to help protect bank depositors as well as with confidence in the financial sector. CODI became a legal entity on 24 March, and the move makes protection of those with money in a bank explicit, rather than the "implicit" protection already on offer, Reserve Bank governor Lesetja Kganyago has said previously. In the past, the government compensated depositors for their losses on a case-by-case basis, meaning taxpayers had to bear the cost of the failure of banks. When a bank failed, there was uncertainty about which depositors would be compensated, the amount of protection provided and where the funding would come from, the SARB said in October. Kaya FM
Rising interest rates have been the bane of everyday people for a while now and it looks like they are going to keep rising. This is a worldwide problem, so South Africa can simply add it to the list of economic woes cascading into household budgets. The South African Reserve Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee has increased the prime lending rate by 50-basis points from 10.75% to 11.25%. This decision will likely impact all South African consumers in one way or another – the vast majority of which are an employee in somebody’s business.
According to Hugh Hacking, Head of Structured Investments and Annuities at Momentum Corporate, higher interest rates impact businesses because they impact their employees. “In organisations, higher interest rates mean higher borrowing costs, leading to decreased profits and cash flow. This can, in turn, lead to a decline in investment and expansion, which can have destructive implications for employment growth and morale,” Hacking says. Kaya FM
Guest - Bukani Mngoma - Labour law expert
Can an employer deduct money for training should the employee resign within a specific period after completing the training? Many employers provide training to new employees when they join the company. The reason for training may vary from on-the-job training to train the new employee on proprietary systems of software, to being sent on formal skill development courses. Current employee may also require new training should the business’s operational requirements request it and or a new system is being implemented. When an employee resigns, especially soon after completing training, employers are quite justified in feeling wronged. The question becomes, may they hold the employee liable for the costs and expenses incurred for the specific training? Kaya FM
GUEST – Landiwe Nxumalo - Co-owner of Enzani Technologies
Enzani Technologies Pty Ltd (“Enzani”) was established in 2005 and has established itself as one of the best in South Africa as an Electrical & Instrumentation turnkey or Engineering Procurement Construction (EPC) contractor specialising mainly in Water, Renewable Energy and Mining sectors. It also operates an Electrical and Control Panels Assembly business. It is one of the few established electrical contracting entity that is Black Women Owned and Managed by qualified Electrical Engineers. Since its inception, Enzani has successfully completed various projects involving technical audits, engineering designs, procurement and installations, testing and commissioning of Electrical and Automation systems for both private and public sector clients. Kaya FM
GUEST – Mesela Nhlapo – CEO, African Rail Industry Association
South Africa’s 21 000km rail network used to be a matter of national pride, accounting for some 80% of Africa’s total network. This massively over-specced network needs to be pruned to no more than 5 500km and operated with the kind of financing and efficiency that the private sector, operating alongside Transnet, can bring, according to the Africa Rail Industry Association (Aria).
Decades of poor management, underinvestment and theft has transformed this once great national asset into a national crisis, chopping 2% off annual GDP and another 4% in missed opportunities, according to Stellenbosch University logistics professor Jan Havenga. The 21 000km rail network is the product of a series of mistakes going back 165 years, including selecting the wrong gauge for optimal efficiency and repeated violations of political promises to run the network on business rather than political principles. Kaya FM
GUEST – Johnstone Makhubu - SARS Chief Revenue Officer
South African Revenue Service collected just over R2 trillion in gross tax revenues over the past year, a 9.7% increase from the 2021/22 tax year. The gross revenues were R123 billion, above what the finance minister estimated in the 2022 Budget speech. This was the first time that SARS exceeded the R2 trillion gross tax revenue mark. But it was R5 billion below SARS's own revised estimate. "Basically, for all intents and purposes, we have achieved what the [finance] minister set us out to achieve," said SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter. Total tax refunds surged by almost 19% to more than R381 billion, with value-added tax (VAT) refunds increasing by almost 22% to R319 billion. Kaya FM
GUEST – Wayne Duvenage – CEO of Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (Outa)
Financially distressed power utility Eskom has been exempted from having to disclose irregular and fruitless expenditure in its annual financial statements until 2025. The surprise exemption was made in terms of Section 55 (2) (b) (i) of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) of 1999 and Treasury Regulation 28.2.1 of section 76 of the Act and published in the Government Gazette on Friday (31 March 2023) by Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana. The exemption is applicable to Eskom’s 2022/23, 2023/24 and 2024/25 financial years but the notice did not provide any explanation for the exemption. National Treasury’s special exemption for Eskom follows the release of the utility’s 2022/23 interim financial results Kaya FM
GUEST – Jashwin Baijoo, the head of crypto asset compliance at Tax Consulting SA
There has been a boom in South Africans getting into the cryptocurrency market space, and it hasn’t escaped the South African Revenue Service’s (SARS’) attention. Growing alongside this new wave of investors is uncertainty regarding the tax implications of these types of transactions. Jashwin Baijoo, the head of crypto asset compliance at Tax Consulting SA, said that SARS is looking to take a tougher stance when assessing a person’s crypto trading activities and holdings. Kaya FM
Babongile is an experienced International Relations and intergovenrmental Affairs specialist, a strategic thinker who designs business solutions for social challenges. He is responsible for managing shared value initiatives that are built on public private partnerships with an objective of achieving wide scale social impact for Absa Group: Citizenship and Social Investment. His aquired skills include policy analysis, corporate affairs, International Trade & advocacy. Babongile holds a Masters in Global Political Economy. Kaya FM
GUEST – Charles Molapisi, Chief Executive Officer at MTN South Africa
MTN SA has set aside R1.5 billion for its network, to keep customers connected, while countering load-shedding, site vandalism and battery theft. The mobile operator today took members of the media on a site tour in Soweto to see how its base stations are increasingly being targeted by criminal syndicates. MTN also demonstrated the measures it is taking to make it difficult for the criminals to vandalise the critical infrastructure.
With persistent load-shedding and a rise in vandalism and theft aggravating SA’s fragile economic recovery and impacting service delivery, Michele Gamberini, MTN SA chief technology and information officer, said the R1.5 billion was the company’s move to “harden” the network and keep customers connected. Kaya FM
GUEST – Mfundo Mabaso, Growth Head, FNB Home Finance
If the ongoing interest rate hike cycle has not had you considering fixing your home loan interest rate, then today’s expected increase may be the one to steer you in that direction. But don’t make the move just yet – in fact, it may not be wise to make it at all. When the rate started its climb after record lows in 2020, many homeowners started squirming, wondering if they should be fixing their home loan rates to protect against future hikes; the expert advice at the time was ‘no’. Now, however, they are starting to shift their thinking. But what exactly should they be thinking? Kaya FM
GUEST – Mbongeni Sangweni - Spaza Shops Stokvel founder
Spaza shops contribute up to 5.2% to the country’s GDP, employing 2.6 million individuals, according to the South African Township Marketing report published in 2021 by digital marketing agency, Rogerwilco. Spaza shops have been part and parcel of the township's economic landscape for a long as there have been townships, taking the form of house shops and growing to container stores and mini-marts. They are a big part of the business heritage of South Africa. This is what motivated Spaza Shops Stokvel founder Mbongeni Sangweni to start his initiative, which looks to take spaza shop ownership to the next level. Kaya FM
GUEST – Kondi Nkosi, Country Head for Schroders in South Africa
Whether you realize it or not, many of the goods, services, and products you use every day are from private equity-backed companies. Grabbing dog food at PetSmart? It's private equity-backed. Picking up Arby’s or Panera Bread on the way home? Yep, those are PE-backed, too. Looking into your family history with Ancestry? PE is all around us all the time. But what exactly is private equity? A foundational concept for anyone interested in learning about—or working in an industry tangential to—the private markets, this article breaks down the basics of PE.
Private equity (PE) firms buy unlisted companies with the aim to increase their value. After a few years, they will sell them, creating a profit for investors. Kaya FM
GUEST – Jackie Maimin - CEO of Independent Community Pharmacy Association of South Africa
Independent pharmacies have won their seven-year battle against JSE-listed health and beauty retailer Clicks over its ownership of both pharmacies and a drug manufacturer, after the Constitutional Court ruled the company had contravened regulations to the Pharmacy Act.
The regulation stipulates that a person or corporate entity that owns or has a beneficial interest in a dispensing pharmacy may not also have an interest in a manufacturing pharmacy. Kaya FM
GUEST – Nicholas Riemer Co-founder and CEO - Nova Messenger
Nova Messenger delivers messages fast, effectively, and privately, ensuring all your university, school and work announcements reach you instantly. It was made clear during the peak of the Covid pandemic, that educational institutions that could not adapt and respond to the unpredictable nature of change, would fail to deliver their core purpose, which is to ensure continuous learning.
Even those who were quickly able to switch to online learning, had no guarantee that traditional communications platforms built for social engagement, would effectively reach their entire learning community. Neither were those platforms appropriate frameworks in a disruptive climate, where the loss of privacy can comprise users.
This was the inspiration behind the development of Nova Messenger, a communications App that delivers messages fast, effectively, and more importantly, privately. Nicholas Riemer Co-founder and CEO explains that in a more contingent world, there is a crucial need to have a dedicated means by which to communicate with communities instantly, ensuring that every individual has received and read a crucial message, and if so wishes, can respond. Kaya FM
GUEST - Esteani Marx - Head of Real Estate at Lightstone Property
With no end in sight for SA’s electricity woes and increasing water outages, the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) recently increased interest rates by 25 basis points and adjusted its GDP growth forecast to just 0.3% for 2023, down from its previous estimate in November of 0.6%. The bank expects growth for 2022 to come in at 2.5%. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) and core inflation have significantly diverged over the past 18 months, with CPI ending 2022 at 7.2% and core inflation – which excludes the impact of the volatile fuel price driven by Russia’s war with Ukraine – ending at 4.9% Kaya FM
GUEST – Sanisha Packirisamy - Momentum Investments economist
Consumer Pulse report for the first quarter of this year found that the recovery path in hotels and restaurants alongside vehicle sales points to an unbalanced recovery in the spending power of consumers. Higher-income earners are displaying higher levels of purchasing power, reported Momentum. High-income and middle-income earners have experienced a faster rebound from the impact of the pandemic compared to low-income earners. Kaya FM
GUEST – Dr. Thulani Mandiriza - Principal Economist at the Competition Commission
The Competition Commission says that South African consumers have been subjected to unjustified price increases for sunflower oil, white and brown bread over the last two years – and may have also been subjected to “opportunistic price increases” for maize meal over the same period. Kaya FM
GUEST - Mzwanele Ntshwanti – Economist and UNISA Lecturer
South Africa has long been described as the “protest capital of the world”. But the protests have largely been confined to townships and informal settlements. The student protests of 2015-2016 suggested that this was beginning to change, with students of all races marching to places such as the ANC’s Luthuli House headquarters, Parliament and Union Buildings. But the most recent marches were the first time in post-apartheid South Africa that such a united force was seen against a president and the ANC. Kaya FM
GUEST – Veroshen Naidoo - Regional Investment Manager at Business Partners Ltd
One of the most important activities you can do for your business to ensure you reap financial success is to plan. Planning gives your company a clear direction when mapping out your goals. You plan on the direction you would like the business to go, and the plan maps out how you will achieve those goals. This plan is known as a budget, and often business owners do not like to budget because it can feel like a constriction. Kaya FM
Kganki Matabane - Chief Executive Officer at The Black Business Council & Rosheda Muller - President of the Informal Traders Forum
Some big businesses have been pressured to close their doors by the national shutdown calls until Wednesday, in spite of assurances by the government that Monday is a normal operating day. The shutdown, a nationwide protest called by South Africa’s third largest political party, the EFF, has been supported by a variety of civil bodies and organised labour to highlight the challenges of load shedding, unemployment, crime and high cost of living, among other issues, the country is facing Kaya FM
GUEST – Kwame Antwi - Founder of KOA Capital
UBS Group AG agreed to buy Credit Suisse Group AG in a historic, government-brokered deal aimed at containing a crisis of confidence that threatened to spread across global financial markets. The Swiss bank is paying more than $2 billion for its rival, according to people with knowledge of the matter. It will be an all-share deal and priced at a fraction of Credit Suisse’s close on Friday, when the bank was valued at about 7.4 billion francs ($8 billion.) The people asked not to be identified because the deal isn’t public yet. The Swiss National Bank has agreed to offer a $100 billion liquidity line to UBS as part of the deal, according to the Financial Times, which reported the agreement first. Swiss authorities are poised to change the country’s laws to bypass a shareholder vote, the paper reported, citing people close to the matter. Kaya FM
BizTweak is a diagnostic platform that is aimed at assisting entrepreneurs structure their businesses, business ideas, and their thinking around running a sustainable business. The assessments helps entrepreneurs know what they don’t know, and also provides them with recommendations on how to address the gaps that have been outlined in the business health report. BizTweak is also a data collection platform which helps with the administration of enterprise development and entrepreneur development programs.
The data collection strategy that we employ is to focus on small businesses and microenterprises, as we see this as the sector that will unlock substantial value when it comes to creating jobs and providing bankable & innovative solutions for future consumption. In the SME and microenterprise sector there also exists a finance gap that is a result of a lack of data required to make the financing decision, through our platform we aim to provide that data so that finance and funding can flow into the sector. Kaya FM
GUEST – Gerald van Wyk who is the CEO of Santam's Client Solutions Business
Africa's largest short-term insurer Santam has agreed to buy MTN SA's mobile telecommunication firm’s device insurance book, which has just over 400 000 policies and an annual gross written premium value of almost R400 million.
In March, the Competition Commission approved the acquisition without conditions, Santam said in a statement, with regulatory approvals expected to be completed within the next year.
The acquisition, as well as the alliance, is aimed to support MTN South Africa in broadening the reach of device protection to their clients, in line with the importance of devices in the lives of customers. Kaya FM
BizTweak Platform
BizTweak is a diagnostic platform that is aimed at assisting entrepreneurs structure their businesses, business ideas, and their thinking around running a sustainable business. The assessments helps entrepreneurs know what they don’t know, and also provides them with recommendations on how to address the gaps that have been outlined in the business health report. BizTweak is also a data collection platform which helps with the administration of enterprise development and entrepreneur development programs.
The data collection strategy that we employ is to focus on small businesses and microenterprises, as we see this as the sector that will unlock substantial value when it comes to creating jobs and providing bankable & innovative solutions for future consumption. In the SME and microenterprise sector there also exists a finance gap that is a result of a lack of data required to make the financing decision, through our platform we aim to provide that data so that finance and funding can flow into the sector. Kaya FM
GUEST - Hennie de Villiers, deputy chair of the Asisa Life and Risk Board Committee
South Africa has seen an increase in financially distressed consumers cashing out their savings/investments and surrendering their insurance policies to survive, as they feel the sting of the country’s sharp economic slowdown, according to the Association for Savings and Investment South Africa (Asisa).
Hennie de Villiers, deputy chair of the Asisa Life and Risk Board Committee, said this is evidence that South African consumers are facing “unprecedented hardship”.
On Wednesday, Asisa released its long-term insurance statistics, showing that one million more recurring premium policies lapsed during the course of 2022, compared with 2021.
In total, 8.4 million policies lapsed, which occurs when a policyholder stops paying premiums for a risk policy with no fund value, Asisa said. Kaya FM
GUEST – Gerald van Wyk who is the CEO of Santam's Client Solutions Business
Africa's largest short-term insurer Santam has agreed to buy MTN SA's mobile telecommunication firm’s device insurance book, which has just over 400 000 policies and an annual gross written premium value of almost R400 million.
In March, the Competition Commission approved the acquisition without conditions, Santam said in a statement, with regulatory approvals expected to be completed within the next year.
The acquisition, as well as the alliance, is aimed to support MTN South Africa in broadening the reach of device protection to their clients, in line with the importance of devices in the lives of customers. Kaya FM
GUEST – Brandon de Kock - BrandMapp director of storytelling
More than half of South African taxpayers want to vote the governing party out of power in next year’s elections because of rolling blackouts, a survey shows.
An online poll of almost 1 500 adults last month found that 65% of middle-income earners are seriously considering not voting for the African National Congress in next year’s general elections, according to a BrandMapp-Silverstone report published on the website of Cape Town-based consultancy WhyFive.
Africa’s most industrialised economy has been subjected to rolling blackouts, known locally as load shedding, since 2008 because state power utility Eskom has been unable to meet demand from its old and poorly maintained plants. The daily outages are costing the country as much as R899 million per day and hobbling economic growth, with output only expected to increase 0.3% this year, according to the central bank.
“Taxpayers of South Africa are being pushed to the limits, not just of their tolerance, but of their ability to remain resilient, productive and positive about the future,” the company said. “It could be argued that all social revolutions begin at the crest of a wave of urgency, and if that is indeed true, then we have certainly reached that point.” Kaya FM
GUEST – Estienne de Klerk - Growthpoint CEO
Growthpoint Properties Limited (JSE: GRT) delivered a 4.6% increase in half-year dividend per share (DPS) to 64.3cps and 2.3% growth in SA REIT funds from operations (FFO) of R2.7bn for the six-month period to 31 December 2022. Distributable income per share (DIPS) was also up 1.3% to 77.9cps. Group property assets grew by 2.0% to R174.1bn and hard currency dividend income increased by 10.1% to R763m Kaya FM
GUEST – Julius Mojapelo the CEO of The Institute of Internal Auditors South Africa
Internal auditing remains pivotal to governance. Internal audit is well placed to complete the assurance reality check. It not only assesses the quality of assurance provided but examines the relevance to the management or governance committee. Internal audit could be the key to preventing corruption and fraud in private and public organisations.
It has traditionally been seen as a monitoring function for businesses and tolerated as a required element of organisational management but considered an obligation to the accomplishment of significant corporate objectives. Its role is to essentially offer value to an organisation.
There are still many challenges faced particularly in the leadership space in our country where more is needed to advocate good governance practices. Professionals in the governance, accounting and auditing sectors have a key role in promoting good governance principles, which lead to improving the productivity of organisations as well as increasing the adoption rate of governance principles throughout South Africa’s economic structures. Kaya FM
GUEST - Waldo Marcus, head of marketing at TPN
The rental market in South Africa showed a year-on-year decrease in vacancy rates for the fourth quarter of 2022.
According to the latest TPN Vacancy Survey, the national vacancy rate – the number of vacant properties – dropped from 11.71% in Q4 2021 to 8.13% in Q4 2022.
While this is an encouraging sign for landlords in the country, the credit bureau said the performance of the rental market is partly because home ownership has become unaffordable for many South Africans.
The survey conducted in 2022 indicated that most tenants across all ages rent because they simply cannot afford to buy, with 54% rating affordability as the number one reason for not purchasing a property.
The survey also showed that tenants aged 18 to 29 listed the flexibility to move as their second most significant reason, while those aged 40 to 49 listed having a bad credit score as their biggest reason after affordability. Kaya FM
GUEST – Iain Williamson – CEO of Old Mutual
South Africa’s second-largest insurer Old Mutual posted double-digit growth in profits, on the back of a decrease in the effect of the Covid-19 pandemic, following a high claims environment over the last few of years.
Old Mutual said headline earnings rose 10% to R7.9 billion for the year through December 2022, up from R7.2 billion in the previous reporting period. Headline earnings per share (Heps) also increased 10% to 180.1 cents per share, compared with 163.8 cents per share in the prior year.
The insurer said profits benefitted from lower mortality claims as the Covid-19 pandemic and its effects eased. Kaya FM
GUEST – Mpho Sadiki, head of real-time payments at BankservAfrica
The recent launch of PayShap (born out of the payments industry-led Rapid Payments Programme or RPP) developed as part of the SA Reserve Bank’s Vision 2025 and is a giant leap forward in the campaign to modernise payments in SA.
South Africans will now also have an option to pay without knowing the recipient’s banking details. Payments will be made to a bank account or a proxy (such as a mobile phone number) that has been linked to an account or wallet at any bank. Payments can be made from a mobile phone at a low fee to the consumer, in real time and available 24/7.PayShap aims to provide the benefit of a safe and convenient money transfer type of payment, as an alternative to cash, as well as to address the challenge of bank interoperability between money transfer services. Kaya FM
GUEST – Mamokgethi Molopyane, a labour and mining analyst
Mining output decreased by 1.9% year-on-year in January, Statistics South Africa said on Tuesday, marking the 12th consecutive month of year-on-year decline and after a 3.5% contraction in December 2022.
The largest negative contributors were platinum group metals (PGMs), whose production fell 15.2% decrease, while diamonds were down 15.5%.
The last time the sector recorded annual growth was in January 2022. Kaya FM
GUEST - Kagiso Lebethe - Senior Employee Relations Specialist
Even though employers are not legally obliged to provide character references this does not mean that employers providing references have a free reign in the type of references they can provide.
An employee who feels that a false character reference provided by their former employer resulted in them not being offered a job has the option to sue the previous employer for loss of income. In claiming loss of income an employee will have to be able to convince the court that he/she would have been offered the job but for the false character reference provided and as a result thereto, he/she has lost out on a potential income he/she would have earned. Kaya FM
GUEST - Vumi Msweli – Founder of Hased Consulting
Most people know that laws exist to protect employees from discrimination and harassment. However, many don't know these laws also protect employees from retaliation. That means employers cannot punish employees for making discrimination or harassment complaints or participating in workplace investigations. And punishment doesn't just mean firing or demotion: It can include other negative employment actions, from being denied a raise or transfer to a more desirable position to missing out on training or mentoring opportunities.
Retaliation occurs when an employer punishes an employee for engaging in legally protected activity. Retaliation can include any negative job action, such as demotion, discipline, firing, salary reduction, or job or shift reassignment. But retaliation can also be more subtle.
Sometimes it's clear that an employer's action is negative—for instance, when an employee is fired. But sometimes it's not. In those cases, according to the U.S. Supreme Court, you must consider the circumstances of the situation. For example, a change in job shift may not be objectionable to a lot of employees, but it could be very detrimental to a parent with young children and a less flexible schedule Kaya FM
GUEST – CHRIS MAURICE: CEO AND CO-FOUNDER, YELLOW CARD
Yesterday, news broke that Silicon Valley Bank, the bank of choice for most startups and venture capitalists, was shut down by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). The closure was triggered by a bank run that began after the bank announced that it lost $1.8 billion in the sale of treasuries and securities. Without clear communication, many customers took those losses as a sign to take their money out of the bank Kaya FM
GUEST – Jan Vermeulen - Editor at Mybroadband
MTN has released its annual results and reported a 42.8% increase in profit across the group from R17 billion in 2021 to R24.3 billion in 2022. In South Africa, revenue increased 3.9% from R48.7 billion to R50.6 billion, with service revenue increasing 3.6% from R39.4 billion to R40.8 billion. Data revenue in South Africa increased 13.1% from R16.5 billion to R18.6 billion, while fintech revenue decreased 2.8% from R1.09 billion to R1.06 billion.
EBITDA in South Africa increased 4.7% to R19.9 billion. Kaya FM
GUEST - Noxolo Fani, CEO & Founder of Phenomenal Light Construction
PL Construction, a concrete repair specialist and cleaning company is a female youth owned company and was formed by Noxolo Fani a professional working in the construction industry who identified the need for a committed specialist in the field of concrete repair, structural rehabilitation and cleaning. PL Construction is a leader in providing value - added construction services to our customers by creating a successful partnership with them throughout the construction process. Our pledge is to establish lasting relationships with our customers by exceeding their expectations and gaining their trust through exceptional performance by every member of the construction team.
PL Construction saw the need for a dedicated specialist in this field whose primary aim is to add value by extending the service life of strategic structures in the mining and industrial environment. The founder of PL Construction, having worked in similar environments in South Africa, is familiar with specialised products and techniques required to repair deteriorating concrete structures and newly build structures not meeting desired expectations. Kaya FM
GUEST: Gugu Mjadu, Executive General Manager of Marketing at Business Partners Limited
The South African Women Entrepreneurs Job Creators Survey found that women gravitate towards industries whose development supports job creation. The financial inclusion of women entrepreneurs as active contributors to the South African economy is therefore one of the most important building blocks of a more equitable and economically active society. Collective and systematic efforts towards making this vision a reality is beginning to produce promising results, with more South African women becoming business owners. According to Mastercard’s most recent Index of Women Entrepreneurs (MIWE),
South Africa is one of 12 global economies where the rate of women’s entrepreneurial activity increased during the 2021 review period. This despite several systemic challenges that have served to hamper the progress of gender equality in the realm of entrepreneurship. For Gugu Mjadu, Executive General Manager: Marketing at Business Partners Limited, the results of the MIWE are particularly compelling considering that of the 12 economies that reported the highest level of progress, six are in Africa. Kaya FM
GUEST – Folarin Aiyegbusi - Head of Startup Ecosystem, Africa
Applications have opened for the third cohort of Google's Black Founders Fund for Startups in Africa and Europe. The company has committed $4m to support eligible Black-founded startups in 2023. Startups operating and headquartered in Africa or having a legal presence on the continent are eligible to apply for the Black Founders Fund. Other eligibility criteria for startups that wish to apply are that the business should be benefiting the Black community or that early-stage startups have Black founders or diverse founding teams.
The startups should be building for Africa and the global market, have the growth potential to raise more funding, create jobs and generally be making measurable impact. Upon selection, the startups will receive up to $150,000 equity-free cash awards and up to $200,000 per startup in Google Cloud credits, support in the form of training, and access to a network of mentors to assist in tackling the challenges unique to each startup. The applications for the third cohort will close on 26 March 2023. Kaya FM
GUEST – Leila Fourie – JSE CEO
The Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) today announced its annual financial results for the year ended 31 December 2022, posting R749 million net profit after tax (NPAT) – a 4% year-on-year (YoY) increase. Headline earnings per share (HEPS) also increased by 4% to 917.7 cents (2021: 878.9 cents) per share, and earnings before interest, tax and depreciation (EBITDA) increased by 1% to R1.07 billion (2021: R1.06 bn). “The JSE’s solid performance reflects the quality of our earnings and the resilience of our operating platforms within a challenging trading environment.
I am pleased to report year-on-year growth of 4% in headline earnings per share, and a strong Return on Equity of 18%, well within our long-term target range,” says Leila Fourie, JSE Group CEO. The bourse recorded revenue growth across its business segments with a growing contribution from non-trading revenue in line with its diversification strategy. Operating revenue grew 5% to R2.7 billion, with an 11% increase in revenue from Information Services (IS) and a 28% increase in revenue from JSE Investor Services (JIS). This performance is underpinned by robust operational processes and 99.9% uptime across our markets. Kaya FM
GUEST – Mfundo Nkuhlu, COO at Nedbank
Nedbank’s 2022 full-year results revealed a significant increase in the company’s headline earnings, which allowed it to increase its total dividend for 2022 by 38%. The company declared a final dividend of 866 cents per share, a 14% increase from December 2021.
This brought the total dividend for 2022 to 1,649 cents per share – a record-high for Nedbank. Despite a “challenging macroeconomic backdrop”, the company managed to increase its headline earnings to R14 billion, said Nedbank CEO Mike Brown. Unlike many other companies in South Africa, Nedbank reported that load-shedding had had a limited impact on its operations, though it did increase the company’s expenses Kaya FM
GUEST – TSHIDI PILA – NEURO LINGUISTIC PRACTITIONER & FOUNDER OF IMPERATIVE TRANSFORMATION JOURNEY
When you think about finding or living your purpose, what thoughts come to mind? Are you excited at the opportunity to find more joy and fulfilment in your life, or are you overcome with fear, hesitation, or overwhelm?
Do you know exactly the steps you need to take to live your purpose each day? Or, are you like most of us: you know you’re meant for more, but you have no idea what that is or how to get there? When the future is unclear, fear of the unknown can cause us to think with a scarcity mindset. A scarcity mindset is the belief that there will never be enough, resulting in feelings of fear, stress, and anxiety.
A scarcity mindset can cause you to limit yourself through your beliefs and actions, preventing you from finding or living your purpose. You might feel that you don’t know enough, you don’t have the resources, or you’re not good enough to pursue your purpose Kaya FM
GUEST – John Loos, senior economist: commercial property finance at FNB
Heads of some of SA’s major listed property funds have recently been highlighting the challenge of municipal rates and utilities tariffs that continue to rise in excess of general price inflation rates. This is becoming troublesome for tenants and property owners as they contribute to operating costs eating into a rising portion of property income.
It has been made worse in recent years by property income growth coming under pressure from a long-term economic stagnation. Further weakening in national property real values and heightened business migration in search of a ‘better deal’ seem the likely outcome. But can such increased regional competition for household and business ratepayers ultimately lead to improved service delivery in places? By its own historic standards, property in SA is still expensive, albeit correcting slowly over time. It became expensive during the early 2000s as a massive interest rate reduction, and significantly improved business environment in the post-sanctions and boycott years, boosted economic growth to above 5% at a stage prior to 2008. Kaya FM
GUEST – STHANDIWE MSOMI – NATIONAL SPOKESPERSON FOR THE SA YOUTH ECONOMIC COUNCIL
Of the more than 40,000 students who begin a degree at a South African university or technical collage each year, only 15 percent will ultimately graduate. Hobbled by their years in South Africa’s massively under-serviced public-school system, many find themselves unable to meet the academic demands of college-level courses. Meanwhile, a large number of students falter for an even simpler reason: They cannot pay. Kaya FM
GUEST – Risenga Maluleke, statistician-general and head of Statistics South Africa (Stats SA
South Africa's economy shrank by 1.3% in the fourth quarter, much worse than economists expected. It is also the largest contraction since the third quarter of 2021, when deadly riots in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng caused massive economic disruption. Economists polled by Reuters expected GDP to shrink by only 0.4% for the last quarter of 2022. Seven of the 10 South African industries contracted in the last three months of 2022, Statistics SA reported on Tuesday. Record levels of power outages took a heavy toll, with only two days without load shedding in the whole quarter. Over half of the quarter's load shedding was Stage 3 and above. Kaya FM
GUEST – Cobus Loubser, Curro’s CEO
Curro Holdings have today released its results for the year ending 31 December 2022. The JSE-listed independent education provider is pleased with a solid set of results given the prevailing economic conditions.
“Curro will celebrate its 25th birthday in 2023. Our business is resilient, and we remain committed to providing excellent education to the children of Southern Africa,” says Cobus Loubser, Chief Executive Officer of Curro Holdings.
Curro’s 2022 matric class achieved excellent results after a year where its school communities flourished with enthusiastic participation in its full range of extracurricular activities. Kaya FM
GUEST – Thenjiwe Shezi – Owner of First Class Parking
There are few business startups that are as simple (or as potentially profitable) as a valet parking service. When most people think about valet parking, they immediately assume that it is limited to hotels or restaurants. But in fact, there is a range of business opportunities for independent valet parking services in almost any local community.
One of the major benefits of a valet parking service is that startup costs are virtually non-existent. You'll need to invest in uniforms and a few others essentials, but beyond that the startup requirements are limited to a smile, a safe driving record, and a good attitude.
Valet parking services are offered directly to organizers of parties, banquets, weddings, tradeshows, galas, and other one-time events. Don't bother marketing to restaurants and hotels - they employ their own valets. Instead, market your services to planners and groups that have a vested interest in creating a unique event for their guests Kaya FM
GUEST – Leslie Adams, Sales Director at Reach Africa, experts in streaming
During last week's Budget Speech 2023, the Finance Minister announced that a further R3 billion had been allocated for the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies to fast-tracking the connection of almost 6 million sites to high-speed internet by 2025/26, underpinning the President's promise at his recent State of the Nation Address to bring the country closer to affordable, high-quality internet access, while simultaneously bringing down the cost of data in SA - long regarded as being inordinately high, especially when compared to other developing countries.
The announcement is just one of many moves that are currently setting the stage for a louder BOOM in video on demand (VOD) services such as Netflix, Showmax and Viu, facilitating a more accessible and seamless streaming experience. Kaya FM
GUEST – Kriben Reddy - Vice president of Auto Information Solutions at TransUnion Africa)
South Africa’s automotive industry shrugged off ongoing vehicle price inflation, declining consumer credit health and looming macro-economic storm clouds to record an increase in vehicle sales in the fourth quarter of 2022 – but all indicators suggest a tough year ahead.
This is according to the latest findings from TransUnion’s Q4 2022 Vehicle Pricing Index (VPI), that showed that the new vehicle index jumped from 2% in Q4 2021 to 7% in Q4 2022, with used vehicles moving from 7% to 9.1% in the same period. The findings show that:
• The number of financial agreements in the passenger vehicle market in Q4 increased by 1.5% year-on-year, with new vehicle deals surging by 13% and used vehicle deals decreasing by 3.4%
• A year ago, 2.31 used vehicles were sold for every new vehicle; in Q4 2022, this declined to 1.98. In the used vehicle market, 20% of cars sold were less than two years old
• Demo models financed made up to 4% of used financed deals, which indicates consumers are opting for older vehicles wherever possible, while car prices and pressure on disposable income increase
• The number of purchasers for hybrid and electric models grew 10 times for hybrids and six times for electric in 2022
• Consumers between the ages of 26 and 40 bought nearly 46% of all vehicles financed, of which 73% were used Kaya FM
GUEST – Jacques Celliers – FNB CEO
Reporting its interim results for the six months ending December 2022 on Thursday (2 March), the group showed a significant jump in profits for the period, along with a healthy increase in active customers across its operations.
The group said its upward performance was driven by growth in customers, transactions as well as deposits.
“The results follow recent investments to refresh FNB’s brand and digital interfaces and the renewed focus on being advice-led in our efforts to help customers through our integrated financial services model,” it said.
The group saw a notable uptick in its “private” client base – banking customers earning more than R450,000 a year – which jumped 11% to 1.87 million people. Half of the new retail customers FNB added in the half-year period were in this group (180,000), with the balance being in the “personal” client base. Kaya FM
GUEST - Ruse Moleshe - Energy Analyst
The National State of Disaster regulations were published on Monday, ostensibly to cut red tape and improve Eskom plant performance, while allowing for the connection of new generation capacity to the grid.
The declaration of a state of disaster, announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa in his State of the Nation (Sona) address earlier in February, addresses the electricity crisis facing the country and seeks to avert a total blackout. The regulations are intended to minimise the impact of load shedding on essential services such as health, police, education, food security Kaya FM
GUEST – Tania Joffe, CEO and Principal of Unu Health
South Africa’s health care remains a two-tiered space, where access to private healthcare, which accounts for 50% of our total expenditure on health, and which supports 17% of our population, remains linked to the ability to pay for private medical scheme membership.
Despite remarkable innovation and progress globally in the health tech domain, which seeks to remove friction and improve access, South Africa’s population with access to private healthcare has moved from 9.6% in 1974 (2.4m members/ population of 25m) to 17% in 2021 (9m member/ population of 59.3m). Aiming to urgently step into the gap, Unu Health is a technology platform that delivers access to affordable, quality primary healthcare.The platform gives users access to primary healthcare providers including nurses, doctors, and pharmacy networks via a zero-rated mobile app, and seeks to empower users to own their wellbeing, key to addressing non-communicable diseases, which by 2030 will be the number one driver of mortality in Sub-Saharan Africa. Kaya FM
GUEST – Bukani Mngoma - Labour law expert
A fixed term contract is quite simply as the name implies, a contract which is concluded from one specific date and shall terminate on another specific date. Alternatively, it could be a contract that is concluded for a specific project, in which case it will terminate when the project comes to an end.
Many employers elect to renew these fixed term contracts once the contract has expired, which is often referred to as the contract “rolling over”.
According to Section 186(1) of the Labour Relations Act No. 66 of 1995 (“the LRA”), a dismissal of a fixed term employee occurs if the employee had a reasonable expectation that the contract was going to be renewed on the same or similar terms. In these situations, does an employee have a right to be notified before the expiry of the contract, that it would not be renewed? Or is the employer within its right to continue the rolling over of the contract until the services are no longer required? Kaya FM
GUEST - Werner de Jager – CashBuild CEO
Its interim revenue, operating profit, and headline earnings and dividend for the period ended 25 December 2022 were all down significantly compared to the group’s 2021 and 2020 half years.
Cashbuild was one of the retail sector’s biggest beneficiaries of the Covid-19 home renovations boom and historically low interest rates during the peak of the pandemic, which saw consumers under lockdown spending more on their homes.The group reported a 4% decline in revenue (to R5.6 billion) for its latest half-year, while headline earnings plunged 39% to R156 million, compared to the corresponding half-year period. Kaya FM
GUEST: Mawethu Soga, Fixxr CO-Founder & Head of Commercialization and Growth
FIXXR is the newest Mobility as a Service (MaaS) technology company, which offers on-demand reliable car service, connecting experienced mobile mechanics to customers.
Fixxr is on a mission to provide efficient, affordable and transparent auto repair and maintenance.
Having successfully serviced the wider Johannesburg region since 2018, Fixxr is excited to announce that they will be servicing Gqeberha next with the region launching on the platform from August. Kaya FM
GUEST - David North – Chief Business Transformation Officer: Pick n Pay
The CEOs of South Africa’s three largest food and grocery retailers are disappointed that the government has not extended the diesel fuel levy refund to food retailers. Pick n Pay’s Pieter Boone, Spar’s Mike Bosman, and Shoprite Checkers Pieter Engelbrecht have all chimed in on the national budget.
During the finance minister’s national budget speech yesterday (22 February), he announced diesel-related price relief for food manufacturers. “To ease the impact of the electricity crisis on food prices, the refund on the Road Accident Fund levy for diesel used in the manufacturing process, such as for generators, will be extended to manufacturers of foodstuffs. This takes effect from 1 April 2023 for two years,” the minister said. Food retailers, however, are upset over this decision as they are stuck spending billions of rands on diesel each month to supply their freight vehicles and generators. Kaya FM
GUEST: Thulasizwe Simelane – Takatso Aviation Spokesperson
Takatso Aviation welcomes the provision made in the Finance Minister’s budget today, for the appropriation of R1 billion to South African Airways (SAA), in partial fulfilment of government’s commitment to settle the airline’s historical debt, initially quantified at around R13.5 billion. The bulk of the original amount has already been settled. This appropriation stems from the processes that led to SAA’s exit from the business rescue process (BRP) in April 2021. It is a commitment made by government as shareholder to the BR creditors prior to Takatso Aviation being chosen in June of that year, as the preferred SAA Strategic Equity Partner. The budgeted R1 billion will settle some, but not all of the outstanding amount. It therefore falls short of what it would have taken for government to completely clear this obligation, which is one of the conditions for the finalisation of the SAA Transaction with the SEP. The partial fulfilment of this obligation is not what Takatso Aviation had expected. We will therefore have to assess the impact thereof on progress of the transaction. Kaya FM
GUEST – Xolile Xaba – Founder of CarPark app
How many times have you found yourself in a tailspin, unable to remember where you are in the maze of mall parking lots where you’ve parked your car?
That is precisely what happened to Xolile Xaba in 2017 when he came to Johannesburg to visit his grandmother and couldn’t locate his vehicle after an afternoon at the mall. This is what prompted him to build his CarPark vehicle location app.
Being the self-proclaimed problem solver he is, he decided to build his CarPark app as a solution to the frustration drivers around the world experience daily.
“I had a basic understanding of what it would take to build something that would help us find our car, to basically just show me where the car is. So I got home and wrote a basic code and went to Newton Junction with two of my friends and basically tested the app, and it worked,” said Xaba.
Interestingly, he had not built the app for commercial use, but would soon see its value.
GUEST: John Manyike, Head of Financial Education at Old Mutual
Education is the key to a great future, but, like all good things, it can come with a steep price tag. For many graduates, this means shouldering part of the national R16.5 billion student debt and starting a working life with this financial burden.
But, says Old Mutual, it’s not all bad news. Having a diploma or degree is an investment that can offer rich returns for the rest of your life, says John Manyike, Head of Financial Education at Old Mutual. Yes, you may have debt, but how you manage it will be key. “Student debt is a serious issue in South Africa. Debts accumulated by young people are increasing. For many, taking a student loan is often the only way to realise their dreams. “
“For parents, the obvious thing to consider is an education plan that matures when a child is due to enter a tertiary institution. If contributions keep pace with education inflation, this could guarantee a paid-up place at a university. Even if the amount realised falls short, it could reduce the loan size needed to get that qualification.
GUEST – Osborne Molatudi - employment law specialist & managing director of molatudi attorneys
Labour and employment minister Thulas Nxesi has announced a new annual earnings threshold under the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA), which will have implications for South African employees.
In a gazette published on Monday (20 February), Nxesi announced that the new earnings threshold will be R241,110.59 per annum (approximately R20,100 per month) from 1 March 2023.
Previously, the earnings threshold was R224,080.48 per year (approximately R18,673 per month).
Earnings referred to in the gazette is defined as the regular annual remuneration before deductions, i.e. income tax, pension, medical and similar payments, but excluding similar payments (contributions) made by the employer in respect of the employee.
Provided that subsistence and transport allowances received, achievement awards and payment for overtime worked are not regarded as remuneration for the purpose of the notice.
The threshold is being increased by R17,000, which amounts to a 7.59% jump.
GUEST: THERESE HAVENGA, HEAD OF BUSINESS TRANSFORMATION AT MOMENTUM INVESTO
The president of South Africa normally delivers the State of the Nation Address (SONA) at the beginning of February. The SONA sets out the government’s accomplishments in the past year, as well as the government’s plans for the next year and beyond.
These plans need to be financed. This is where the National Budget comes in. And it is addressed to the nation by the Minister of Finance on the first Wednesday after 20 February. In this case, Wednesday 22 February 2023.
But how exactly is this going to impact your household finances? Here’s a handy list of things to look out for and understand about this year’s Budget address:
GUEST – Ann Crotty, Writer-at-large for Financial Mail
One sure way of knowing if your country is a major player in the murky world of tax dodginess, money-laundering or the financing of terrorism, is whether it features on one or other of the lists drawn up by high-minded and righteous oversight bodies. If it is on a list, then chances are it’s not a player — or certainly not a major player.
There are lots of lists. There are greylists and blacklists. There are money-laundering and financing of terrorism lists and there are “unco-operative tax haven” lists. All are carefully curated by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation & Development (OECD), which specialises in tax matters; the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), focusing on anti-money-laundering (AML) and combating the financing of terrorism (CFT); and, more recently, the EU
GUEST - Hanre Rossouw – SASOL CFO
Despite many challenges and lower volumes, Sasol has managed to maintain its earnings for the first half of its current financial year at a similar level compared with the previous year.
GUEST – Brent Petersen - Head of South Africa & Legal Lead EasyCrypto.com
South Africa’s crypto assets market is currently unregulated, but not for much longer. In July 2022, the South African Reserve Bank announced that they intend to implement proposed amendments within the next 12 to 18 months that will provide a legal framework that will regulate crypto assets for industry players, stakeholders, and investors in South Africa. This will be the regulators first attempt to bring crypto assets into the South African regulatory space, which means they need to ensure they get the fundamental laws and regulations right from the outset. Last year, African start-ups raised around $5.2 billion. At least $2 billion from that amount went to fintech start-ups, with $127 million dedicated to crypto ventures. Despite this high figure, Africa still only accounted for 0.5% of global blockchain funding, highlighting the growth potential of this market.
GUEST: Boniwe Dunster – HR Specialist and Career Coach
It’s a nice gesture to refer friends for jobs at your workplace. But don’t forget: Your own reputation’s also on the line. An employee referral is when an employee puts forward a candidate for a job opportunity within their organization. Referring a friend can seem like an easy win for all parties. First, it’s a great way to help your company’s talent pipeline, as referrals are cheaper, faster, and make for better performing hires, according to a LinkedIn report. It’s also a way to build goodwill within your network, and even earn yourself a potential referral bonus! But before referring every LinkedIn contact or friend that comes your way, consider what’s at stake for yourself when referring someone to your company.
GUEST - Donna Rachelson, co-founder, IgniteHer
We see promising changes in the number of female leaders both in South Africa and internationally. But at the same time, women are leaving senior roles. Why?
According to findings from the 2022 Women in Business Report published by Grant Thornton, there’s been an increase in the prevalence of women in senior management roles around the globe. The report provides important insights into the results of 10,000 mid-market organisational leaders spanning 29 global economies. Its findings show that, since the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, the disruption to workplace practices and regulations has benefited female employees and managers, making it easier for them to transition into leadership roles.
GUEST - Shane Padayachy - Area Manager at Business Partners Limited
Several advantages make owning commercial or business property a viable prospect for small businesses. These include the benefit of asset appreciation, enjoying full control over interior design and renovations, security of tenure and avoiding above-inflation rent hikes. As a first port of call, small and medium enterprise (SME) owners need to be aware of the various steps in securing finance for commercial property and to be as prepared as possible to put forward a strong application. Commenting on this topic is Shane Padayachy, Area Manager at Business Partners Limited who explains that the process of acquiring funding for business property “involves more rigorous vetting procedures and due diligence than applying for residential property.
GUEST - Vaughan David, CEO of FNB Cash Investments Business
Highlights five key points that SMEs should pay special attention to during the National Budget Speech presentation.
Energy – businesses are looking forward to receiving more clarity on the government’s plans to ease the impact of load shedding and electricity prices which have a knock-on effect on profit margins.Bounce Back Loan Scheme – during SONA, President Cyril Ramaphosa said a few adjustments would be made to the scheme to help entrepreneurs with funding for solar power.Revenue collection – a reprieve in major revenue generating categories, such as corporate tax, personal income tax, VAT, and the general fuel levy, often go a long way to help ease the pressure on businesses as the economy continues to struggle.Economic growth – it is important for SMEs to understand how the government intends on supporting economic recovery through various measures and initiatives which remain key for job creation and growth.
GUEST - Lungile Mashele – Energy Economist
More than half (24 809MW) of Eskom's installed capacity of 48 000MW was out of service on Monday morning. This is a new record, Eskom confirmed. Massive outages triggered Stage 6 over the weekend, and Eskom warned of further stages of load shedding. South Africa is now the closest it has ever been to Stage 8 load shedding, which will mean no electricity for 12 to 14 hours a day. Planned outages (3 566MW) - for maintenance work - only account for 14% of the generation capacity that is currently offline.
As we all know by now, the traditional billboard has evolved, and we have seen a rapid expansion of digital roadside billboards in the South African urban landscape.Around seven years ago there were only two or three media owners in South Africa that had constructed digital billboards, and as a result they could largely dictate pricing. At the time, the billboard industry in SA was in the early stages of transformation following the rapid uptake and expansion of Digital Out-of-Home (DOOH) globally. Host of KAYABiz, Gugulethu Mfuphi
More than 80% of South Africa's media pie is shared between the top five global media agencies. This leaves very little room for local, independent players to enter the market and compete because of the large capital and credit requirements needed to book media on a large scale. This advantage is what global agencies have had for many years, coupled with the financial backing from their parent companies mainly from western countries.Mfundo Ntsibande has over 20 years of experience leading large brand teams within the marketing and media industry. His experience includes holding senior marketing roles at the SABC and successfully rebranding some iconic brands within radio and SABC News.He is a former board member and chairperson of marketing and distribution at the National Film and Video Foundation. He also served as a member of the Adjudication Committee at the Gauteng Film Commission.Ntsibande says he is an entrepreneur at heart and was also the founder and co-owner of a popular franchise Slick Branding & Media. He is also the strategic marketing advisor to the non-profit Inkanyeti Foundation.
GUEST – Siphamandla Mkhwanazi, FNB Senior Economist
SA’s retail trade shrank in December, coming in worse than market forecasts, as retailers and households across the country dealt with recurrent power cuts, rising costs and elevated prices.Retail sales volumes closed 2022 on a sour note, declining by 0.6% y/y in December, from a relatively muted 0.8% increase in November (revised higher from 0.4% y/y). On a month-on-month basis, seasonally adjusted volumes declined by 0.6% in December, from a 1.0% increase previously. Still, retail sales increased by a marginal 0.3% quarter-on-quarter, suggesting a meagre contribution to the 4Q22 GDP growth.
GUEST - Peter Worthington - Senior Economist at Absa CIB
The 2023 Budget, which Finance Minister Godongwana will present on 22 February, will likely confirm a robust fiscal performance in FY22/23. The 2023 Budget document will update the NT’s revenue and expenditure targets for the current fiscal year that were published in the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS). So far in FY22/23 (for the period April-December), fiscal progress has been strong, with solid expenditure control and robust revenues. Main budget expenditures in the period were up just 3.8% y/y, while revenues were up 7.6%. However, provisional financing data for January suggest a big cash deficit in January of about R92bn, some R26bn or 39% larger than a year previously.
GUEST: Fezile Dhlamini - Scooter RSA CEO
Green Scooter is a South African start-up that claims to introduce the first and safest electric motor-tricycle on the African continent. It has two models, the Zbee Cargo and the Zbee RS, aimed at consumers and businesses.
The company is targeting daily commuters who require a last-mile ride and consumers who want to own an affordable electric vehicle for short to medium distance trips. It is available through a rent or rent-to-own model starting at R5,345 per month for a minimum three-month lease that goes up to 36 months.
GUEST – Kagiso Lebethe - Senior Employee Relations Specialist
Is your boss secretly setting you to fail? Your boss is responsible for creating an environment for you and your peers to do your best work. Your supervisor profoundly influences your success and failure. They pump up the morale of the team, or they destroy it. Furthermore, your supervisor directly affects culture by creating one that thrives or one full of toxicity. If you find yourself engaged at work, you can thank your supervisor. Conversely, if you find yourself disengaged at work, that too is due to your supervisor. The funny thing about bosses is that when employees perform well, they credit themselves with being good managers. But, when employees underperform or fail, they typically do not blame themselves. Because the boss doesn’t recognize their lack of skill, they unconsciously set you up to fail. Instead, they blame the employee for not understanding the work. They label them lazy or say they have poor time management. Even worse, they will accuse them of not following directions. Whatever reason the manager finds to explain an employee who is failing, it is assumed to be the employee’s fault.
GUEST - Avani Manilal, ESD solution strategist at FNB commercial
Twitter began as a podcast app. Nokia was originally a paper mill. If Jeff Bezos had stuck to his guns Amazon would still just sell books. The ability to pivot and not become emotionally attached to a single idea is the mark of a professional entrepreneur. It’s only natural for you to form an emotional attachment to your creation. If you’re an artist, you’ll love the painting you’ve worked on. If you’re an architect, you’ll be proud of the new design you’ve come up with. And if you’re an entrepreneur, wouldn’t it be strange if you didn’t have a soft spot for the business into which you’ve invested so much time and thought?
GUEST – Patrick Kelly, STATS SA Chief Director for Price Statistics
Annual consumer inflation cooled to 6.9% in January, from 7.2% in December. This is the third consecutive month of a decline. But food inflation hit the highest rate since 2009. The consumer price index (CPI) declined by 0.1% between December and January, Statistics SA reported.
Guest: Natasha Champion, Regional Sales Manager at ooba Home Loans
The journey to joint homeownership can be an exciting one and may improve your chances of being approved for a home loan. However, whether you are financing a home as a couple (married or unmarried), as business partners or even as friends, a home loan is a serious and long-term financial commitment. THE HOST OF KAYABiz, Gugulethu Mfuphi chats to Regional Sales Manager at ooba Home Loans, Natasha Champion to unpack this futher
GUEST: Jeff Miller, founder of Twelve B Green Energy Fund
A new solar and renewable energy fund is launching in South Africa, offering investors a 100% tax break using Section 12B of the Income Tax Act. However, investors will need a minimum of R100,000 to get through the door. The fund, called the Twelve B Green Energy Fund, relies on Section 12B of the Income Tax Act, which allows for a tax deduction from qualifying assets which are used for renewable electricity generation. THE HOST OF KAYABiz, Gugulethu Mfuphi chats to founder of Twelve B Green Energy Fund, Jeff Miller about this initiative.
Guest: Jan Vermeulen - MyBroadband editor
In recent years, several countries have begun to accept Bitcoin as a form of legal tender, hailing its potential to transform their economies. But in 2022, cryptocurrency markets collapsed: Since peaking at over $68,000 in November 2021, the price of Bitcoin has fallen to under $17,000. This volatility, underscored by the collapse of cryptocurrency exchange FTX and other crypto ventures, has brought new scrutiny to the industry and to the countries that have embraced digital assets.
GUEST – Makwe Masilela Founder and CIO - Makwe Fund Managers
Retail group, SPAR shows growth amid challenging economic headwinds, with turnover increasing by 7.8% % for the 18 weeks to 28 January. Spar’s combined core grocery and liquor turnover rose 8.5%, with the grocery wholesale business climbing 9.7% and Spar Tops liquor sales, increasing by a flat 1.6%, the retailer said in a trading update on Tuesday
The issue of criminal records and the expungement process is undoubtedly a complex one, attracting much debate, largely resulting from archaic understandings of criminality. For too long this discourse has been used to rationalise the collective marginalisation of people with criminal records from society, which has not only been a justification for systemic discrimination across various sectors, but also actively contributes to cycles of violence and inequality that have significantly impaired South Africa’s socio-economic development. In South Africa, there are thousands of people who have been directly and indirectly impacted by the criminal records system. Irrespective of the type of crimes people have committed, the stigma of their criminal history creates barriers to employment, starting a business, accessing skills, learning opportunities, and generally engaging in the economy in a way that utilises their unique capabilities. Excluding people with criminal records from the economy in this way not only contributes to the country’s soaring unemployment rates, but also increases their risk of recidivism, thereby adversely affecting the safety and security of their families, community and society as a whole. Sex workers are particularly vulnerable to the grips of the criminal legal system, with many of them experiencing police harassment and acquiring criminal records. Sex work is currently fully criminalised under South African law,1 effectively deeming anyone buying, selling and facilitating the sale of seas criminals. However, since it is difficult to prosecute someone for engaging in sex work (unless caught in the act), authorities tend to rely on entrapment and municipal by- laws, such as loitering, to arrest sex workers. Criminal records simply serve to exacerbate the stigma that this highly marginalised group already experience on a daily basis. Therefore, it becomes essential to consider the effectiveness of the current criminal record expungement process in South Africa. One needs to question what the intended purposes of criminal records are; whether these purposes are met in practice; and whether they are in fact legitimate and proportionate in relation to the associated negative impact on people in society. It is in this light that the present report will provide an overview and critical analysis of the governing criminal records expungement process in South Africa, and make practical recommendations to improve the status quo. Ultimately, the aim is to restore the dignity of people with criminal records by challenging the legitimacy of the narratives that have been used to justify their exclusion from society; curating spaces for their experiences to be validated; and creating opportunities to elevate their potential both as individuals and as a collective
The story of Shaun Ncala : Entrepreneur brings father’s dream to life The world is full of examples of children inheriting a business from their parents, and often failing with it. But Shaun Ncala is one of very few entrepreneurs who has not only inherited his father’s business, but also his father’s dream, and has succeeded with it beyond his dad’s imaginings. Shaun’s father Donald is of the generation of self-taught, pioneering township entrepreneurs who started with a spaza shop and grew by adding a tavern and liquor store. But his dream of owning a filling station remained just out of reach. He managed to buy a site, and have it zoned for fuel sales in the Jouberton township near Klerksdorp where he was based. But raising the substantial finance for establishing a filling station was a bridge too far. Shaun grew up in Johannesburg after his parents separated, but remained close to his dad, who never got tired of encouraging him to take over the family business one day - and to build that filling station. Maybe it was this input from his father that made Shaun show early signs of business acumen. From a young age he would take two bags to school - the one stuffed with chips and sweets to sell to his classmates. And at college he started a small money-lending business for his friends who ran out of money from time to time. “I was the frugal one. My friends would buy Nando’s, and I would just buy a loaf of bread and milk at Pick n Pay,” says Shaun. He also worked part-time at a frozen yogurt franchise, starting out as a cleaner and working his way up to store supervisor. By the time he graduated, the owner offered him a job and a career path, but Shaun wanted to see what it would be like to run his father’s business. The agreement with his father was to take over the liquor store, pay off the R300 000’s worth of stock to his father, allowing him to go into semi-retirement, and from then on use the profits to grow the business. It was challenging, says Shaun, “but I totally crushed it”. By focusing on the big-spending customers without neglecting those buying small quantities, Shaun tripled the turnover within a few months. Although Shaun was able to streamline the business slightly by implementing some IT systems he was trained in, he found that he learned more about the importance of building relationships with people - his clients, staff and suppliers.
GUEST – Unathi Kamlana, FSCA Commissioner - Financial watchdog, the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) has officially decided to cancel stock exchange ZAR X’s licence with immediate effect, after the alternative bourse failed to allay liquidity and capital adequacy concerns. The decision to cancel the exchange’s licence was taken together with the Prudential Authority and given the go-ahead by the South African Reserve Bank (Sarb). The FSCA has ordered the exchange to notify all affected persons within the next five days, to stop any further trading of listed securities as well as finalise the delisting of all its listed securities within the next 14 days. “The cancellation decision was not taken lightly. However, the decision follows a prolonged remedial process which was initiated to assist ZAR X to become compliant with the regulatory framework. The remedial process failed to yield positive results,” FSCA commissioner Unathi Kamlana said in a statement
GUEST: Zinhle Tyikwe - CEO of the Consumer Goods Council of South Africa (CGCSA)
The Consumer Goods Council of South Africa (CGCSA), which represents 12 000 businesses on Tuesday urged President Cyril Ramaphosa to scrap the sugar tax, as well as suspend the fuel duty and road accident fund levies for the industry amid record levels of load shedding. Gugulethu Mfuphi is joined by the CEO of CGCSA, Zinhle Tyikwe to unpack this. kaya 959
GUEST – Sydney Moshoaliba, Education Officer of Casual Workers Advice Office
A study by the Casual Workers Advice Office shows strike activity falling to levels last seen in 2014, most of them related to wages and related issues. Its Strike Barometer 2022 shows there were 86 strikes in 2022, of which 51 were wage-related. The strike total for 2022 is 27% lower than 2020 and 48% lower than 2018 kaya 959
GUEST: Carey Van Vlaanderen, Chief Executive Officer At Eset Southern Africa
Dating sites can be a wonderful place to meet new people, make connections and find a romantic partner, but as the popular Tinder Swindler documentary showed, it’s easy to fall in love and fall victim to dating scams involving romantic con artists. With February being the month of love, it’s important that online daters know how to protect themselves in the digital dating space. kaya 959
Mbali Nhlapho, Owner Of Sisters @ Work
Mbali Nhlapho, a former housekeeper and the owner of Sisters at Work, is someone who is not afraid to roll up her sleeves and get her hands dirty. In 2017, she realised that she could do more and make a difference in many people's lives by taking the unpleasant and time-consuming job of cleaning off their hands, and she started a professional cleaning business. kaya 959
GUEST – Colin Timmis - Xero South Africa Country Manager
In 2022, Xero South Africa commissioned research on how small businesses where fighting for survival post COVID-19. The results of survey found that small businesses were optimistic of the future although the country is still facing a number of challenges. Gugulethu Mfuphi unpacks the numbers and the state of SA businesses with Colin Timmis, Xero South Africa Country Manager. kaya 959
GUEST – Freddy Makgato, CEO of Franchise Association of South Africa (FASA)
Some of the most popular businesses to buy in South Africa are selling their franchises to regular South Africans on a regular basis. The CEO of FASA, Freddy Makgato joins Gugulethu Mfuphi to unpack all that you need to know before you make the decision to buy your first franchise business. kaya 959
Wendy Poulton is Secretary General of SANEA
Future energy jobs will require skills in legal, finance, science and technology, entrepreneurship, engineering and social science, to name a few, according to a new report.
The South African Energy Skills Roadmap 2023, published this week, is the collaborative work of the South African National Energy Association (Sanea) and Wits University. The project was proposed by the South African BRICS Business Council, with the aim that the roadmap would support the country's broader plans for a just energy transition. It was funded by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ).
The roadmap identifies skills gaps for the energy sector of the future. It also unpacks recommendations to ensure the right skills are in place to aid South Africa's energy transition.
It notes that while fossil fuel-related jobs will decline over the next seven years, there is expected to be a high demand for construction jobs for renewable energy plants.
"With the shift away from fossil fuels towards more renewable and clean energy, the initial demand for design, construction and installation-related jobs will be high," the report read.
Following the construction of renewable energy plants, skills will also be needed for their continued operations and maintenance. "Installation, repair and maintenance is an important emerging area that has significant implications for local enterprise development and community skills development," the report read.
Workers will require specialised skills for these clean energy technologies (such as green hydrogen and even energy storage solutions). Apart from technical specialists that can work with solar PV and wind technologies, others, such as electrical engineering and non-electrical technical skills like boilermakers, welders and mechanical skills, will be needed. kaya 959
Esteani Marx - Head of Real Estate at Lightstone Property.
Although domestic and global headwinds are persisting into 2023, South Africa’s residential property is showing pockets of progress and opportunity, says Hayley Ivins-Downes, the head of digital at Lightstone.
Ivines-Downes said that the data analytics company found rising interest rates, socio-political tensions, and a limp economy hampered by an unstable electricity supply dampened consumers’ spirit.
Despite the slight dampening, the most recent comprehensive data from Lightstone points to certain categories of buyers carrying the market with Mid value and High-value segments carrying the market at 37% and 32%, respectively, in 2021 – a consistent trend for many years.
Ivins-Downes said that: “Luxury category buyers were back to 12% in 2021, the highest recorded in this category and last matched in 2015, and buyers in the High category hit 32% in 2021, the highest score recorded in the past 14 years.”
Low-value buyers, unfortunately, dropped below 20% in 2021, said Ivins-Downes.
This perhaps suggests fewer new entrants into the market – an unwelcome development given the country’s demographics – with market activity dominated by the Mid and High values, said the head of digital. kaya 959
Janet Booysen - Marketing Head at Builders
Inflation and interest rate hikes have led to price taking precedence over brand for many shoppers. The challenge posed to retailers in a struggling economy with cash strapped customers would be how to acquire new customers and how to retain existing customers. In this context loyalty programs take on greater importance—but brands must put value and ease of use front and center to retain existing customers and boost purchase frequency.
Builders has recently launched its Builders PRO benefits programme aimed the mid-tier tradesman segment of small businesses in the plumbing, construction and DIY space to help cash trade customers by offering valuable benefits and incentives for all transactions they make through Builders. This is just one of the innovative ways in which brand can bring value to customers through relevant solutions for their businesses.
Builders to unpack how it is working to meet consumers’ changing expectations through loyalty programs during economic turmoil? kaya 959
Osborne Molatudi - EMPLOYMENT LAW SPECIALIST & MANAGING DIRECTOR OF MOLATUDI ATTORNEYS talks about The modern workplace has gone through significant changes with businesses being required to adapt to new ways of working. Many employers have revisited their operating models and have since adopted remote or hybrid working arrangements, depending on the nature of their operations, says Nadine Mather, partner, Bowmans South Africa.
While the move to remote and hybrid working arrangements resulted in certain benefits, the implementation of load shedding has created a new challenge for employers to manage in the modern workplace.
This is because during periods of load shedding, employees who are required to work from home may not have a backup power supply and employees who are embracing the hybrid work model may similarly not work during periods of load shedding should they be scheduled to work from home.
As power utility, Eskom, has confirmed that load shedding will continue for some time, the question that arises is what steps can employers take to reduce the negative impact load shedding has on their operating models. kaya 959
Vumi Msweli – Founder of Hased Consulting talks about Whether it's a couple who dreams of one day being parents, a bench scientist who dreams of finding a cure for cancer or a minimum-wage worker who dreams of one day becoming an independent entrepreneur- -- we all have dreams.
While there are many external obstacles that dreamers and entrepreneurs have to overcome, the truth is that many dreams don't even make that far.
Many dreams die at our own hands. kaya 959
David Morobe - Executive General Manager: Impact Investing at Business Partners Limited talks about Some entrepreneurs do not keep their business house in order and as such do not get finance when they apply for it. This applies to everything from business structure and financial information to employment contracts and tax compliance – SMEs must ensure that they have everything they’re supposed to and stay up to date or they will lose out on opportunities.
For instance, during the peak of the Covid-19 period, we saw first-hand just how many SMEs could not access financing due to compliance issues. Non-compliance was a major obstacle for many SMEs when applying for business relief or support.
Over the years in business finance, we have found that something as standard as an EMP201 – a monthly payment declaration in which an employer declares the total personnel payment together with the allocations for PAYE, SDL, UIF and ETI – is not always readily available. Proving tax compliance and viability remains a challenge for some SMEs, they don’t have a firm grip on their financials, which is a very important document when applying for finance. kaya 959
Henk Langenhoven the Minerals Council Chief Economist talks about The value of South African mineral production achieved a record high for the second consecutive year in 2022, but underlying mining’s enormous contribution to the country’s economy and its citizens, warning lights are flashing for the sector because of constrained transport logistics, faltering energy supplies and almost zero net investment.
South Africa’s mineral production achieved a fresh record high of R1.18 trillion in 2022, up from R1.1 trillion in 2021, which was the first time the industry topped the trillion rand mark. Production value was driven by strong commodity prices, giving the domestic economy a vital injection of higher taxes to bolster the fiscus, increase employment and improve wages.
The mining industry is one of very few sectors in the prevailing economic climate adding jobs. During 2022, the sector created 15,500 more jobs, lifting total employment to 475,560, according to the Minerals Council South Africa’s Facts & Figures 2022 annual publication.
Facts & Figures 2022, which provides in-depth data and insights into the status and performance of the mining industry, showed how important the sector is for the South African economy.
“Once again, the mining industry has shot out the lights when considering its financial performance and contribution to the economy in 2022. However, we remain concerned about the worsening constraints in rail and port logistics, which means we have yet again forfeited the benefits of high commodity prices and demand, as well as inadequate electricity supply,” says Minerals Council CEO Roger Baxter. kaya 959
Rose Nkosi - President of SA Spaza and Tuckshop Association (Sasta) talks about The traditional retailer, known in South Africa as a spaza shop, is the cornerstone of socio-economic systems across Africa. Surpassing more advanced formats such as supermarkets and convenience stores, consumers buy more than 70% of their products from more than 3 million small independent shops across the continent. Despite this, the sector faces many challenges that need to be addressed in order for them to remain successful.
“Traditional retailers will continue to be the backbone of Africa’s economic environment and non-traditional participants in the ecosystem will find possibilities to grow alongside them and deliver greater financial inclusion throughout the continent,” says Nomava Zanazo, Consultant at Boston Consulting Group (BCG), Johannesburg.
The research found that transformation in the sector is driven by who the shop proprietors are, the willingness of small retailers to modernise their businesses in response to changes in the landscape as well as a growing digital ecosystem in Africa. The modernisation of the sector as well as the available opportunities will manifest differently in each area depending on the available infrastructure, however, traditional shops will continue to exist for the foreseeable future. kaya 959
Thato Mothopeng – Chairman of Soweto Tourism talks about With a theme of reverting to the roots, Soweto Tourism will host an awards ceremony on 3 February 2023 at Soweto Theatre to honour Soweto-based tourism businesses for putting the famous South African township in the spotlight and for tirelessly promoting it as a preferred tourist destination.
Soweto Tourism Awards organiser Ayanda Kela says that “this event is established to pay tribute to the enormous contribution made by the Soweto tourism operators and service providers to the tourism industry and the improvement to the economy of Soweto and the country as well as to encourage excellence within the industry”.
Kela adds that this event will not only honour excellence of businesses in Soweto but also support improved planning development and internal analysis of tourism businesses while encouraging the continual raising of standards among Soweto tourism through accreditation and certification.
“The goal is to honour and award Soweto-based tourism businesses and business owners who dedicate themselves to making Soweto the top township tourist destination in South Africa.
“The nominees were nominated by members of the public and businesses based on 20 categories ranging from accommodation, arts and craft, camping, restaurants and others.
“Credo Mutwa Village and Hector Pieterson Memorial are among the nominees of best known attraction destinations in Soweto nominated for the awards,” Kela adds.
She expresses optimism and enthusiasm about the event as this has been long overdue since the Covid-19 pandemic. “It is about time we recognise businesses that have survived the hardships of the pandemic and are still thriving. Their commitment and services will be recognised and celebrated publicly,” she says. kaya 959
Mzilikazi Themba Khumalo - South African Touism acting CEO talks about Questions have been asked about the decision to channel almost R1 billion into a single project involving the football giant.
South African Touism (SAT) says there has been a malicious leak of internal documents regarding the Tottenham Hotspur deal.
The Daily Maverick reported on an almost R1 billion sponsorship of the football giant being considered by the tourism entity.
Questions have been asked about the decision to channel the money into a single project
SAT said the sponsorship would yield R88 billion in international spend into the local economy.
SAT acting CEO Mzilikazi Themba Khumalo briefed the media on the sponsorship deal on Thursday.
He said there was no signed contract yet, but that the SAT board had conditionally approved the deal.
“The money that is invested in tourism is not the same money for energy or potholes, there are other departments for that.
“Our legislative mandate is about persuading international travelers to spend their money in the country,” Khumalo explained."
Khumalo said before the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism was contributing 6.4% to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). This has since dropped to 3.2%.
He said SAT was not asking for “new money” to go into the deal, but rather that SAT would be aggregating the money that would go into their smaller projects to the deal kaya 959
Itumeleng Mothibeli – Vukile MD SA talks about South African and Spanish retail property portfolios delivered strong sales performances in November and December 2022, with excellent Black Friday and festive season trading growth, despite worsening load shedding and water security challenges in South Africa.
Vukile is a specialist retail REIT that holds a defensive portfolio of property assets of which 44% are in South Africa and 56% in Spain. The Spanish assets are held through Vukile’s 89,6% holding in Madrid-listed Castellana Properties Socimi. kaya 959
PROF Moeketsi Letseka - Professor of Philosophy of Education AND the Unesco Chair on Open Distance Learning at the University of South Africa (UNISA) Moeketsi Letseka is the holder of the UNESCO Chair on ODL at Unisa. He is a professor of philosophy of education and Editor-in-Chief of Africa Education Review, a scholarly journal that is jointly published by Unisa Press and Taylor & Francis in the United Kingdom (UK). Africa Education Review indexed by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), International Bibliography of the Social Sciences (IBSS), and SCOPUS.
Prof Letseka is Chairperson of the Finance Standing Committee of the World Council of Comparative Education Societies (WCCES), and a member of the council of Da Vinci of Technology Management, Modderfontein, Lethabong, Johannesburg.
During 2003 and 2005, Prof Letseka served as a senior researcher in the Human Sciences Research Council’s (HSRC) Carnegie-funded study, “Higher education industry partnerships”, under the leadership of Dr Glenda Kruss. The study’s operating budget was R3.8 million. The study investigated the depth and breadth of collaborative partnerships between industry and public higher education institutions in nanotechnology, information and communication technologies (ICTs), and materials development. In 2005, Prof Letseka served as Guest Editor, with Dr Kruss, Research Director: HSRC, of the London-based scholarly journal Industry & Higher Education, volume 19, number 2, which reported on the Carnegie Foundation funded HSRC’s national.
During 2005 and 2008, Prof Letseka received $90 000 (R1.2 million) from Ford Foundation in support of the HSRC’s Student Pathways Study, in which he served as Principal Investigator and Project Leader.The study, which sought to answer the question, “Why university students drop out without obtaining a qualification?”, was conducted at seven public higher education institutions in South Africa, namely Stellenbosch University, the University of the Western Cape, the University of Fort Hare, the University of the Witwatersrand, former University of the North (now University of Limpopo), former Peninsula Technikon, and former Pretoria Technikon. kaya 959
Avitha Nofal, Credit Ombudsman’s Senior Legal Advisor talks about Ever wonder how to get your debt written off in South Africa and how many years it would take for debt to be written off? Prescribed debt is old debt that has not been acknowledged, verbally or in writing, or paid for more than three years. Prescribed debtis old debt that has been written off by credit providers.
What does it mean when debt is written off?
While there are ways for creditors to still claim this debt, the amendments to the National Credit Act in March 2015 make it almost impossible for debt collectors to get back this expired debt.
Before it was up to the consumer to know this as a defense when dealing with collectors, and many collectors would be hoping to trick the consumer into paying the expired debt, but now there is a greater move to inform consumers of their rights.
However, if any payments or promises of payments have been made in that time, then the debt is still valid and the consumer is liable for it. Often collectors will try and find a way to trick you into acknowledging the debt during communications, and if you play into their hand and admit to knowing about it then they can hold you responsible. kaya 959
Lerato Ramollo, Commercial Director at Yebo Fresh talks about South African township-focused food and grocery delivery service Yebo Fresh has secured R78m with a pre-series A equity investment and a Jobs Fund grant. The funding will allow the company - which started in Hout Bay's Imizamo Yethu three years ago and now delivers to more than 25 townships in the greater Cape Town and Johannesburg areas - to expand its service further. kaya 959
Waldo Marcus, head of marketing at TPN Credit Bureau talks about The share of parents who are behind on school fees increased over the past year, according to a new survey conducted by the credit bureau TPN among private and public schools where fees are paid.
Families had to weather an extraordinary financial storm last year, as food and fuel prices rocketed - along with interest rates.
At the end of 2022, only 62.57% of school fee accounts were in good standing compared to 63.75% at the end of 2021, the survey showed. This is still far below pre-pandemic levels of around 68% in 2018 and 2019.
During the third quarter of 2020 – at the height of the Covid-19 lockdown – only 50% of parents had paid their children's school fees in full. By the end of that year, just 56% of parents were in good standing. kaya 959
Eleanor Mavimbela – AA SPokesperson talks about In the middle of January, South Africans had something to cheer about, despite dealing with load shedding and an interest rate hike, as mid-month data pointed to a decrease in fuel prices.
Things changed quickly towards the end of the month as the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy sent shockwaves across the country.
The increase, which kicked in today, February 1, is a complete reversal of conditions at the start of the year and even the middle of the month, when a petrol and diesel price cut was still on the cards.
Motorists will now have to fork out an additional 28 cents per litre for both 95 and 93 octane petrol, while diesel will be hiked by between less than a cent and around 9c a litre.
The latest price hikes will push the price of petrol in Gauteng to R21.68 a litre, from R20.14 a year ago.
The main driver behind the higher local prices is the rising cost of international petroleum product prices, pushed higher by a stronger global oil price.
The latest fuel price increase, which comes in the wake of a series of steep rate hikes announced by Reserve Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago and the unsettling news of a massive 18.65% increase in electricity tariffs that will kick in in April, extinguishes the last flame of hope of a better year for South Africans.
According to the AA, the increase will put an even bigger burden on consumers who are already under strain owing to the rising cost of living in South Africa. kaya 959
Freddy Makgato, CEO of Franchise Association of South Africa (FASA) talks about Fast food franchises are among the most popular businesses to buy in South Africa. Many South Africans have affinities to brands like Steers, Nando's, McDonald's, and KFC – and these have proven models that systematise operations and generate profits.
But they come at a steep cost to franchisees – often requiring millions in setup costs and ongoing management fees of around 12% of monthly turnover. And that's if they're even available in the first place.
There are, however, several fast-food franchises that operate nimbly. They deal in limited menus specialising in a single food type sold at low prices and away from expensive retail space.
Items that don't require complex cooking procedures, like sausages, pies, chips, and crumbed fish, are ideally suited to these operations, with some allowing the majority of preparation to take place off-site.
The franchises are also cheap because they operate out of food trucks, gazebos, kiosks, or small retail stores rather than taking over pricey floor space in malls.
As a result, many offer attractive deals to franchisees with flat or low monthly management and marketing fees.
Given the average price point and limited range of menu items, the profits from these stores may be lower than more prominent quick service restaurants – the average order cost will be far lower for a hot dog than a premium burger with chips.
But a well-positioned store, outside a busy hardware store or in a high-traffic walkway, for example, may sell a lot of units and generate reasonable profits, especially given the lower initial and ongoing fees. kaya 959
Lebogang Lebepe – Founder & CEO of BizzHouse talks about Which is the better investment: sectional title or freehold ownership?
Freeholds generally are a good choice for people looking to invest in property as a long term investment strategy and sectional titles generally are a good choice for those who want to build a rental portfolio to generate a steady stream of income. Freeholds generally have a higher house price inflation rate than sectional titles do, which means that a freehold is more likely to show greater appreciation in value over time than a sectional title might show. Every situation is different though. Investing in property is always a good idea, so these legalities depend on what you need from your real estate.
Estate living doesn't always mean lower insurance premiums
Buying within security estates can give buyers the freedom to choose not to live behind bars. Guarded by an external wall and regular security patrols, homeowners often don’t see the need to install extra security measures like burglar bars and alarm systems on homes within gated communities. But, are these security estates secure enough for your insurance provider?
According to Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, buyers should not assume that their insurance premium will automatically be lower simply because they have moved to a security estate.
Sectional title versus freehold property
Sectional title refers to the ownership of a unit that forms part of a group-owned complex or development. kaya 959
Eunice Sibiya - Educator & Coach on Personal Financial management and Ayanda Tetyana – Parenting expert talks about Family members need to talk about potential changes in health, inheritance, and estate planning issues before there is a crisis or someone is not able to communicate. But families fail to start these important conversations. Communicating and advance planning can reduce feelings of burden, guilt, and misunderstandings. It can also reduce conflict that is often experienced when family members are put in the position of making decisions for others.
So why don't we talk?
Denial of our own or other's mortality is often the reason conversations about inheritance can be so sensitive. Few people want to give the impression that a family member might die or that they would want someone to die. Talking about human losses or changes in health can be emotional. It can also be filled with legal and financial complexities that many find overwhelming. A family history of conflict can make it difficult to talk about later life transitions of aging parents.
Helping family members talk about issues that they normally do not want to address is the focus of my research on inheritance issues. This research has been used to develop tools to help families begin thoughtful communication about the inheritance issue of personal possessions. kaya 959
Wesley Diphoko is the Editor-In-Chief of FastCompany (SA) magazine talks about A few years ago, a technology incubator in Cape Town decided to establish a version of itself in a township based on pressure to advance transformation in the technology sector and potential to access funding.
This incubator became just another entrepreneurship programme and office space for all kinds of businesses and less about advancing technology in a township environment.
Lately, it has (together with other so called tech startup organisations), coined the term “township tech”, to potentially access funding targeted for tech projects designed to serve township communities.
How do you even begin to term a part of tech as just tech for a certain sector of society? It is disrespectful to single out tech-solving township challenges as “township tech” as if it's different from solving the same issues for the country, continent and the world.
Here’s why such a term is problematic.
Firstly, it limits the ability of a startup labelled as township tech to grow and access funding from investors. Which investor in his right mind will invest seriously in a startup that is labelled “township tech”?
Whoever coined this may have done so with good intentions, but unfortunately the unintended consequences will not do justice to young people in townships solving real challenges in society.
The truth of the matter is that there’s no such thing called township tech in the same way that there’s no “yuppie tech”.
What we have are edu tech, health tech, fintech startups that are solving education, health and financial challenges in the township environment.
A health or education challenge in a township may have minor differences with a similar challenge elsewhere, but it is still a health or education issue. To categorise health solutions with a health tech label irrespective of where they occur is the correct way.
Economic development practitioners should be careful of marginalising people and entrepreneurs around historical terms in the interest of accessing short term funding.
Technological innovations coming out of townships should be categorised correctly to receive global recognition and support. Local townships should be considered hotbeds of innovation. kaya 959
Elize Kruger – Independent Analyst talks about The total spending by South African consumers in December reached R100-billion, while the volume of transactions reached 142-million, with 45-million transactions conducted at grocery stores and supermarkets, 12.8-million transactions at fuel service stations, eight-million at eateries and restaurants and 7.5-million at fast-food outlets.
However, in terms of value, consumers spent R26-billion at grocery stores and supermarkets, and spent R11.7-billion on betting, including lottery tickets, casino gambling and off-track betting. Consumers spent R9.2-billion at fuel service stations and R3.5-billion was spent at non-financial institutions, such as for foreign currency exchange and money orders, while consumers spent R3.1-billion at family clothing stores during December.
Payment clearing and reconciliation services company BankservAfrica’s Points-of-Sales transactional data showed how the spend varied among cost-conscious consumers, said BankservAfrica head of customer relations Solly Bellingan.
“Following the challenging year for the economy and households, our data show the total value of spending was only 7% higher than during the previous year, while the volumes had grown by 17%,” he noted.
Additionally, the amount of cash circulating in South Africa totalled R84-billion in December, according to BankservAfrica’s Integrated Cash Management Service data, which reflects the combined total of physical cash orders by commercial banks for their respective automatic teller machines and branch networks.
Despite the 6% decline in cash orders from the R89-billion in December, owing to the 19 working days in December 2022 compared to the 21 in December 2021, cash remained in high demand.
“One of the peak days was December 15, ahead of the Day of Reconciliation, with cash orders to the value of R8-billion placed. Further, cash orders worth R7.9-billion occurred on December 23, during the Christmas shopping rush,” said Bellingan.
BankservAfrica does not process interbank card transactions for all of the banks, which means that its data show only part of the fuller picture of the December transaction volumes and values. Further, the company does not monitor any transactions that take place between accounts at the same bank, he noted kaya 959
Ted Blom - Energy Expert talks about The ANC and its alliance partners have recommended that a national state of disaster be declared over the energy crisis to ensure that sufficient financial resources are allocated to end load-shedding.
This would be similar to the state of disaster declared by the government during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic when a handful of men and women in the national coronavirus command council wielded sweeping powers that included dipping into departmental budgets to provide a soft landing for pandemic-hit businesses and individuals.
The recommendation follows calls by, among others, small businesses, the DA, the National Planning Commission, and the agriculture sector, who have said a state of disaster would give the government wide-ranging powers to intervene in the nation’s worsening energy crisis.
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Speaking on the final day of the ANC lekgotla on Monday, President Cyril Ramaphosa said work was under way in the government to ascertain whether the requirements for the declaration of the state of disaster could be met.
The possible declaration will be discussed at Wednesday’s cabinet lekgotla, he said.
“It was observed that it would be necessary to have a national disaster because that would enable us to have the instruments that would be necessary to fully address the challenge that our nation faces,” Ramaphosa told delegates during his closing address at the lekgotla.
“This lekgotla has agreed that the co-ordination of our response also needs to be escalated to the most senior levels of government and that we need to communicate more clearly and the message should be a singular message so that there is no confusion among our people.”
The recommendation from the ANC, Cosatu and SACP comes about six months after Ramaphosa rejected the idea in favour of the so-called energy action plan, the biggest feature of which was to open the door wide open for private sector energy generation. kaya 959
Rita Cool, certified financial planner at Alexforbes talks about The start of the new year brings ‘tax season’ upon us – a good time to review your financial situation and use any available tax benefits before the end of the tax year on 28 February.
You have until this date to make additional contributions towards a retirement fund, a retirement annuity (RA) or a tax-free savings account (TFSA) to get the benefit in time for your next tax submission. The South African Revenue Service offers generous tax deductions when you make contributions to your RA, pension or provident fund. This means you can save more for retirement, and at the same time, pay less tax.
You can make contributions of up to 27.5% of your total taxable income, up to a maximum of R350 000 per year, and get the tax back. On a contribution of R100 000, if your tax rate is 30% this means that you get R30 000 back in tax and it only reduces your take-home income with R70 000.
There is no tax on growth in a retirement fund or a TFSA. This has a big effect on the long-term compounding of your investments compared to an after-tax investment, where you have to pay tax on growth as well. If you combine the tax-free growth with the tax benefits on the contributions you get money that works for you, not only you working for your money. kaya 959
Leroy tau, businessman, author and relationship coach talks about When you’re in the throws of being soooo excited about your shiny new business and the new life you’re creating for yourself it’s easy to assume that your friends and loved ones will be super happy for you and super supportive.
But what if they’re not?
Sometimes the reality can be very different.
In fact, a lot of the time it’s different, it’s a really common issue for people and it can really start to hold you back. It can make you feel ‘wrong’ in some way and question what you’re doing.
THEY JUST DON’T SEEM BOTHERED?!
You’ll want to talk to your closest friends about your new venture but they seem completely disinterested in it…but also very frustrated when you don’t have time to meet them, or you have a deadline to hit and you have to get it done at the weekend and they just don’t ‘get it when you can’t come out to play’. It can feel REALLY disheartening.
We expect our closest people to be our biggest supporters so it’s unsurprising that it feels really rubbish when that doesn’t happen. kaya 959
Phemelo Segoe - Marketing Manager at Optimi Workplace talks about The matric pass rate says a lot about the health of South Africa’s education system. As an indication of the learners who successfully pass Grade 12, it offers insight into whether primary and secondary institutions are serving the needs of their learners, and provides an indication of the number of new graduates who may apply for tertiary studies or enter the job market. This figure doesn’t tell the full story, however.
On 20 January, the Department of Basic Education will announce the results of the matric class of 2022. Whether these figures point to a recovery in the wake of the pandemic remains to be seen. Between 2019 and 2020, the pass rate fell by over 5% to 76.2%, and its gains in 2021, by a mere 0.2% percentage points, were so small as to be virtually insignificant.
What’s more, researchers feel that the pass rate alone doesn’t reflect the full status of education in South Africa. The “true matric pass rate”, they argue, has to consider the dropout rate. How many learners who started in Grade 1 failed to matriculate 12 years later? The Department of Basic Education puts the dropout rate at between 42 and 56%. The Zero Dropout Campaign puts it closer to 63%, estimating that only 37% of Grade 1 learners ultimately pass Grade 12.
In 2020, the Department of Higher Education and Training calculated that less than a third of South African adults, some 32.5%, had a matric certificate or its equivalent.
With a matric still serving as the most important qualification for job seekers, these numbers paint an alarming picture. They point to the many millions of South Africans who cannot find employment — the country continues to have one of the highest unemployment rates in the world — and who cannot break intergenerational cycles of poverty.
How can we overcome this? How can we support not only the learners who don’t pass in 2022, but also those who didn’t pass in 2021, in 2020, and the many years that came before?
The answer to this question isn’t an easy one. Pointing fingers in any one direction is reductive and counterproductive. In a country like South Africa, which is beset by many complex socio-economic and political issues, it’s best to view responsibility for addressing these problems as shared. Government has its role to play, yes, but so too does civil society and the private sector.
If we look to business, it’s clear that there are a variety of advantages available for companies that make the effort to support new and future employees who don’t have a matric. One of the most obvious of these relates to the B-BBEE Scorecard.
Businesses that offer skills development programmes for low skilled employees and unemployed community members stand to earn up to 25 points towards their B-BBEE Scorecard. Companies with more than R50 million turnover need to spend 6% of their payroll on skills development to qualify. kaya 959
Jeremy Lang - Chief Investment Officer at Business Partners Limited talks about With the recent increase in the interest rate, finance has become less affordable for many small and medium enterprises (SMEs) however Jeremy Lang, Chief Investment Officer at Business Partners Limited, urges business owners to be realistic about their expectations and plans for the year ahead, but not to give up hope as there are many different funders in South Africa. “While the situation may seem bleak and we still have a long road to recovery, I implore SMEs who might be tempted to throw in the towel to reconsider their financing options.”
New institutions and types of financing are introduced each year, and there is a whole host of financing products available from the private and public sector. This financing mainly consists of grants, risk free and risk-based finance where either grants, debt or equity investments are made available.
Financiers include commercial institutions such as banks and SME focused financing institutions, development finance institutions, angel investors, crowd funding, enterprise development funding and private equity firms, amongst others. They may also relief programmes specifically designed to help SMEs weather the COVID-19 and most recently, the electricity load shedding. kaya 959
Phiona Martin - award-winning Organizational Psychologist, Career Coach talks about Signs of a toxic coworker
None of these though compare to the person who wreaks havoc on you and everyone around you. They spend their daily work lives doing things that never have a positive outcome and make you wish it was the end of the day when you just got there with your breakfast in tote. I am talking about the ever so present toxic co-worker.
Face it: some of you out there are the textbook definition of this type of employee. You may not know it, or do and deny it, but there are key signs attributed to the behavior that earns you this unglamorous honor.
They create a space that’s either not fun to be around or is repeatedly doing things that brings the rest of your staff down in the process.
Worst of all is that this person will claw their way to a promotion over you and you may not even know it. Ways that they do this range from manipulation to starting drama with others to even being a likable yet not suitable person for the job.
And yes, this person can still be that frustrating even in a virtual setting that many of us remain in due to the coronavirus pandemic. The tricks they have up their sleeve go beyond the physical presence, it’s just up to you to figure out what their work style is. kaya 959
Adv Fikiswa Mncanca- Bede - Chief Director Statutory and Advocacy Services in the Labour Dept talks about JSE-listed companies will be slapped with a minimum penalty of R1.5m if found to not be complaint with employment equity targets, an official of the department of employment and labour has said.
Fikiswa Mncanca-Bede, the department’s chief director for statutory and advocacy services, told businesses and employment consultants on Friday that the department would be revisiting JSE-listed companies during the first quarter of the year to monitor compliance with the Employment Equity Act five years after approving their plans... kaya 959
Boniwe Dunster: HR Specialist talks about When you think you’re underpaid, you feel unappreciated and overworked, and it makes doing your job a drag. However, with the right game plan, preparation and negotiation skills, you should be able to increase your salary. Here are the steps to take if you think you’re being underpaid.
Eight ways to tell if you’re underpaid
One of the most common questions people ask about salaries is how to find out if they’re being underpaid. After all, it can be uncomfortable to ask coworkers about their salaries for comparison. Here are eight ways you can determine if you’re being underpaid. kaya 959
Hendrick Makaneta - Education activist talks about TVET today, there is the constant challenge that very little research has been done on the relationship between skills development and culture.
How do we go about developing systems that fit into the country’s culture, values, traditions and social interaction as well as its particular level of development?
Timing is everything. In the past, development banks and donors have funded a range of interventions that mimicked the “best practice” of the countries of origin of the consultants that were hired. But many have not taken off… or the take off was so cumbersome and protracted that it was clear the plane was not well designed… or fit for purpose. Why?
What do people think about TVET? Is it better to have an unemployed lawyer as a son than an employed construction supervisor? Is it better to have an daughter earning almost nothing as a teacher or working for international wages in a factory as a electronics technician?
Industry is not the agent of change setting the future scenarios as we often think it is. Industry if they are successful, exploits very well what people at a particular moment prefer, what they want to associate themselves with, what they value and consider important in their lives. Industry pays millions to have this kind of researches. kaya 959
Margaret Tyobo - CEO of Ayanda Junior Academy talks about Margaret Tyobo is the pride of Vosloorus on the East Rand for launching the first private junior academy in the township.
Tyobo, who has been described as a source of inspiration, is the founder and CEO of Ayanda Junior Academy, which has 248 pupils.
Her success story has been making waves on social media. The academy is an extension of Ayanda Pre-School which has been in existence since the late 1980s.
The R5m school which opened its doors last year for grade R to grade 2 pupils boasts an indoor swimming pool, computer lab, library and a tennis court that is still under construction.
Tyobo, 63, said she had to sell her Range Rover and a holiday house in Knysna in order to fund the project. She also cashed in her investments, she said.
She said that her passion for early learning started in the 1980s when she looked after neighbours' children to make ends meet. kaya 959
Monageng Legae – Chairperson of South African Funeral Practitioners Association talks about Unrelenting load shedding coupled with a heatwave across parts of South Africa are causing bodies to decay much faster at funeral parlours, an industry body has warned.
The South African Funeral Practitioners Association’s (SAFPA) national secretary-general Vuyisile Mabindisa urged people to bury their loved ones within four days of their death to ease pressure on funeral parlours, and to ensure that they are buried with minimal decay.
"The industry is seeing a large number of putrefied bodies being buried. Burying one’s kin within four days, or less, is cost-effective and prevents families from seeing their departed ones in a poor state of decomposition," Mabindisa said in a statement on Tuesday.
South Africa experienced over 200 days of load shedding in 2022, while every day of 2023 has seen load shedding, including six days of Stage 6.
Mabindisa said the current heatwave was causing the rate of decomposition to skyrocket. According the SA Weather Service, parts of KwaZulu-Natal, including Pietermaritzburg, are expected to approach a high of nearly 40 degrees Celsius on Tuesday.
"Take a 45-year-old man with a history of diabetes: the minute he passes, he will start bloating within an hour. So if our refrigerators cannot manage decaying bodies, then we are looking at a disaster," Mabindisa said.
"Load shedding has a ripple effect on the bereaved. Besides seeing their loved ones decay at a rapid rate, they have to endure delays in the death certificate registration process at Home Affairs because of load shedding. This forces families to postpone the burial for a later date." kaya 959
Andrew Levy – Labour Economist talks about KwaZulu-Natal’s largest mushroom farm, Denny Mushrooms, has retrenched all its staff, leaving hundreds of workers jobless after an alleged arson attack brought the operation to its knees last September.
A well-placed source within JSE-listed Libstar Holdings, which owns Denny Mushrooms, and a competitor told Business Day on Tuesday that 315 farm employees, including artisans, pickers, office workers and managers, had been retrenched after a decision was taken in December to shut the operation for good... kaya 959
Nkosi Kumalo - General Manager: Product and Capability. MTN Business talks about “Nowadays, in order to succeed businesses need fast, seamless, reliable internet connection and for the longest time that was fibre. However, MTN has brought competition to Fibre and in studio we have Dr Nkosi Khumalo, General Manager, Product and Capability at MTN business…” kaya 959
Luyanda Vilakazi – Founder of Punture Proof talks about One of the holy grails of motoring is the prospect of puncture-proof tyres that never need to be filled with air.
Korean tyre company Hankook showed the latest version of its non-pneumatic i-Flex prototype tyre at last week’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, US.
Instead of being filled with compressed air like regular tyres, the i-Flex is connected to the rim via multilayer flexible spokes.
In addition to being immune to punctures and the accidents they can cause, Hankook says the airless tyres are low maintenance, with no need for air pressure maintenance.
The i-Flex is a 10-inch tyre with a width of 105mm, and to absorb road shocks and bear a load, it adopts the design of a multilayer interlocking spoke inspired by the cellular structure of living organisms.
Hankook has not said when the i-Flex tyre might be available to buy, stating that it was continuing research and development for further improvement.
Michelin and Goodyear are also working on puncture-proof airless tyres. kaya 959
Dr Eric Levenstein, director and head of the Business Rescue, Restructuring and Insolvency practice at Werksmans Attorneys talks about Stats SA has published the latest liquidation data for South Africa, showing that company liquidations shot up over 30% in December 2022 year on year – although overall closures for the full year were slightly lower than the year before.
According to Stats SA, South Africa saw 159 liquidations in December 2022, up 30.3% from December 2021.
Most of the liquidations were voluntary (V), with only seven being compulsory (C) or ordered closures.
For the full year, 1,907 businesses and companies were liquidated, down from 1,932 that had to shut their doors in 2021.
Most of the businesses that closed in the country were in financing, insurance, real estate, and business services, followed by trade, catering and accommodation.
The community, social, and personal services industries were also hit hard by liquidations – but a large portion of companies that shut down were also unclassified. kaya 959
Phelisa Nkomo – Development Economist talks about South African finance minister Enoch Godongwana says that the national government is looking at launching a housing bank to provide loans to public sector employees and the gap market.
Godongwana revealed the housing bank plans in an interview with CNBC Africa at the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting in Davos.
He said the unions asked the government to replicate the Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS) to create a housing bank.
“We agree with the unions that we should do a similar exercise as we did with medical aid by creating a state medical aid called GEMS,” he said.
“We need a similar arrangement with public sector employees to create a housing bank to create loans for them.”
The government housing bank would also provide loans to the gap market – people who earn too much to get RDP houses and too little to get mortgages from banks.
Godongwana added that a fully-fledged state bank via the South African Post Office is also under development.
“The challenge for a state bank was the regulatory framework. That regulatory framework is coming true,” he said.
“The second issue is sufficient instruments for a state bank. There are discussions about whether we should merge African Bank with the Post Office to create a bigger state bank.”
He added that the regulatory framework for a state bank would be similar to the regulations for any other bank.
“When tailoring the state bank products, it will take that into account,” he said. “That process is in motion.” kaya 959
Matseleng Mogodi - Senior Property Practitioner from real estate agency Snooks Estates talks about Bank-assisted property sales, sales in execution and sheriffs’ auctions may seem attractive, but there are issues to be aware of, says Paul Stevens, chief executive of Just Property, who talks through the process and the pitfalls of buying under these circumstances.
From 2018, a reserve price was required at sheriffs’ auctions. This rule was put in place after LLHRF brought a case before the full bench of the Johannesburg High Court to prevent ridiculous prices from being fetched at the auctions – some as low as R10, Stevens said.
These results often left the previous owner with a large shortfall on their outstanding bond.
“In 2021, Lungelo Lethu Human Rights Foundation (LLHRF) brought a R60 billion class-action suit against South African banks. An affidavit obtained in support of the suit found a sample of about 12 000 properties repossessed since 1994.
“These houses had been sold mainly through sheriff’s auctions for 50-60% of their proper value. And two hundred of those houses were sold for less than 17.2% of their market value.”
So buying a repossessed home seems almost unethical to those who see it as possibly profiting from others’ misery, noted Stevens.
With interest rates as low as they are currently, and banks approving more first-time home loans, is there a win-win solution where distressed sellers can still get a reasonable price for their home and buyers can still get good value?
“These days far fewer homes reach the sheriffs’ auctions due to the introduction of distressed, or bank-assisted, property sale programmes,” said Stevens. kaya 959
Mantsha Pheeha, Author and Certified Coach talks about Abantu bazothini leading you to financial ruin? 5 tips to help you conquer fears of downgrading
Why are we so scared of what people will think or say about us if we drive a Corolla instead of a Porsche Cayenne — and live in Westonaria instead of Waterfall?
Why does the ‘Abantu Bazothini’ syndrome wield so much power over us?
“The problem is that some people don’t pluck up enough courage to downgrade as they see this move as too ‘humiliating’ for them. Pride gets in the way. I’m sorry to say, but pride comes before the fall and it takes you ten steps back,” writes Money Psychologist and columnist, Winnie Kunene, in one of her blog posts.
South Africa’s favourite #FinancialFitnessBunny, Nicolette Mashile, weighs in with another angle.
“If you come from a background where you’ve been a ‘have-not’ for a very long time, downgrading your lifestyle is difficult because you almost feel like you’ve graduated from ‘the struggle’ and you’re in a different space. So, the thought of downgrading hits hard; it’s a psychological and personal journey that one didn’t think they would need to go through,” says Mashile, a social entrepreneur, TV host and financial speaker. kaya 959
Shiwela Shikweni Branch manager at Boston City Campus talks about With the matric group of 2022 having received their final exam results, what are the future options for matrics who did not get a matric exemption or bachelor’s pass? While this can be a stressful time, all is not lost. There are alternative pathways to still achieve career success. kaya 959
Busi Mavuso - Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA) CEO
Last week’s World Economic Forum (WEF) meetings were a testament to there being no better example of government and business working together effectively than when it engages with the international business community, business organisation Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA) CEO Busi Mavuso writes in her weekly newsletter.
She notes that business leaders, including BLSA board members Nedbank CEO Mike Brown and Standard Bank and BLSA chairperson Nonkululeko Nyembezi-Heita, attended the WEF meeting alongside politicians like International Relations and Cooperation Minister Naledi Pandor and Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana.
Mavuso outlines that they spoke about the long-term potential of South Africa and how the entities are working together to solve the challenges facing the country.
“The case is much stronger when politicians and business make the case together. Business leaders must make investment decisions every day. They are acutely aware of the risks and the cases both for and against.
“Politicians have it in their power to change policy and, therefore, influence the business environment, improving the investment case. By addressing global leaders from the same platform, we demonstrate our commitment to improving the business environment and the business case for investment,” Mavuso avers. kaya 959
Dr David Monyae. Associate Professor of Political Science and International Relations and Director for the Centre for Africa-China Studies (CACS)
The new scramble for Africa — to court African countries for increased trade and investment — will intensify this week when major powers send top ministers to the continent’s capitals.
Senior ministers from the US, Russia and China are visiting various countries this week in a fresh bid to entice African countries to take their hand in growing trade, investment and military co-operation... kaya 959
CHANTAL MARX - HEAD OF INVESTMENTS RESEARCH AT FNB WEALTH AND INVESTMENTS talks about Last year was a tumultuous year in global equity markets and while the JSE eked out a positive return in rand terms, it still moved backwards when converted to the greenback. We saw growth expectations moderate as the year progressed thereby impacting the earnings outlook for companies near term – we still see quite a bit of value in the local equity market for 2023.
That said, risks are still rife as the war in Ukraine continues, China’s policy implementation remains haphazard, and inflation stays elevated. Locally, the growth outlook has been tempered by the impact of continued and intensifying loadshedding which will undoubtedly impact company profitability and/or balance sheets (depending on whether they become self-reliant or not). kaya 959
A new locally developed app, called Happ-e-tax has been designed to make information about South Africa’s tax legislation easily accessible.
In the app, you will find information about the Income Tax Act, the Tax Administration Act, interpretation and practice notes, a comprehensive definitions list and space for notes and folders.
Developed by local tax consultant Herschel Alpert, the app is seen as a real benefit for businesses, accountants, lawyers and even students interested in South African tax law. Kaya 959
South Africa is in a precarious position in that its working-class taxpayers are severely diminished and the SA Revenue Service (Sars) is too dependent on taxes from the rich, but ever more rich South Africans are leaving the country.
This warning came from Claude de Baissac, chief economist of business management consultancy Eunomix, who was at the annual Tax Indaba in Johannesburg last week and was part of a panel discussion on the expansion of the tax base.
South Africa could be a low-income country by 2030 and, with the tax base not growing enough for the state to meet obligations, the country is on the verge of a revolution. Kaya 959
The Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) recently announced the appointment of Annabell Lebethe as its new Chief Executive Officer. In a statement released by SAMRO, Chairperson Nicholas Maweni said Lebethe’s appointment comes after a lengthy search by the board, who agreed that she embodies the right qualities and experience for the role. Kaya 959
The announcement of the 2022 matric results mean it is that time in this year when parents of successful matriculants may need to take action to finalize the enrolment of their children for their next schooling life stage with the start of tertiary education. For those fortunate enough to have secured bursaries and sponsorships, the only thing to worry about is getting their children settled into their new college or university environments.
Bursaries are few and far in between and this, unfortunately places a heavy financial load on parents to fund their children’s tertiary education. Very few parents can afford the additional costs which in most cases far exceed what they paid for secondary schooling. For those who have not saved for their children’s tertiary education, the only option, apart from simply not studying, is to borrow money to fund their children’s further education. Kaya 959
South Africa's 2022 economic performance could be described as M-shaped, with ups in Q1 and Q3 and downs in Q2 and Q4. Even so, it is likely to have managed 2.4% full year growth. In 2023, the forecast is gloomy with persistent blackouts, the effects of high inflation, and cumulative SARB hikes taking their toll on consumption spending. We now estimate real GDP growth at 1% in 2023, down from 1.3% in December and 1.5% in November. Potential benefits of China's re-opening are weighed down by global recession risks and domestic weakness. Kaya 959
South African grocery chain Spar has conceded that ‘fictitious’ and ‘fraudulent’ loans flagged by its auditors and a team of lawyers, were reportable irregularities, saying they should have never happened.
Last year, the JSE-listed retailer, which operates on a franchise model, came under the spotlight following a slew of allegations against it. Kaya 959
Jamaican sprint legend Usain Bolt has taken legal steps demanding that the USS$12.75 million balance of his investment in Stocks and Securities Limited (SSL) be turned over to him at the earliest possible time.
SSL is currently embroiled in a multi-million fraud allegedly perpetrated by one of its employees, which some sources say could amount to a value of more than J$1 billion in Jamaican and US currencies. Kaya 959
EKASINOMICS:
Lucas Maluleke started Trailored, a small custom trailer company, in a Soweto garage in 2003. At the time, the business could build one new trailer every few three to four months - but has since expanded capacity to produce more than that each day.
The business has also been buoyed by a R2.3 million cash injection through equity crowdfunding platform GoGetta, which they hope will help it become the largest trailer manufacturer on the continent. Kaya 959
LEGALLY SPEAKING:
Starting a business with friends can be a great way to become a business owner. Working with friends can be rewarding and fun, but there can also be some speed bumps along the way. Just like working with anyone else, you and your friend may have different viewpoints from time to time. How successful your company will be may depend on how you respond and adjust to those discrepancies. Kaya 959
Relief ahead for small businesses grappling with load-shedding, says Ndabeni-Abrahams.
Small business development minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams said she and her team are trying to find solutions aimed at lessening the devastating effect of load-shedding on small businesses.
She said the department’s agencies, the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (Sefa) and the Small Enterprise Development Agency — in consultation with different stakeholders — were urgently working on an energy relief package for the small, medium, informal and micro sectors. Kaya 959
The price of some staple food groups is expected to rise as load shedding takes its toll on the agricultural sector, says Christo van der Rheede, an executive director at Agri SA.
Speaking to 702, Van der Rheede said that load shedding is having profound knock-on effects for all types of agriculture businesses, including those dealing with livestock and crops. He added that South Africa’s food security might be on the rocks soon if the issue persists. Kaya 959
As expected, headline inflation was 7.2% y/y in December from 7.4% in November. This brings average inflation to 6.9% in 2022, up from 4.5% in 2021, the highest since 2009.
Core inflation was 4.9% y/y, down from 5.0% previously, but had monthly pressure of 0.2% that was driven by housing and household contents. Core inflation averaged 4.3% in 2022, services inflation was 4.0% and core goods inflation averaged 5.2%. Kaya 959
Investing in property can be a profitable venture if done correctly. Follow these tips and you will soon be well on your way to building a property empire.
Most successful investors will tell you that smaller properties, like flats, generate a better return than houses. Kaya 959
ITS MY HOUSE: The Concept of a family house – Who owns it, who inherits it and what does the law say about the ownership.
In practice, the family house is often thrown into relief after a death. In the course of disputes over inheritance, immovable property takes centre stage. Opposed parties turn to the official administration of deceased estates in support of their own interests, and a key faultline of disagreement is whether the house will remain a family house. We see this at the point when an elder or a custodian has passed away, and there is no collective agreement on how the immovable property is to be dealt with. Most commonly, it is to be inherited in terms of intestate succession, by a spouse or children of the deceased. Disgruntled or victimised family members then turn to official administration processes that, however, disregard the family house concept completely. Meanwhile, the property may cease to be identified as a family home if a male relative has not been ‘appointed’ as a custodian. Despite the fact that it was declared unconstitutional in Bhe, male primogeniture (first-born inheritance) continues to be the dominant principle in the social organisation of family house succession (an important alternative is male ultimogeniture, or last-born inheritance). Kaya 959
South Africa experienced one of the saddest events in the history of the country’s constitutional democracy as widespread, violent, and deadly looting took place in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng.
These were incidents that most South Africans would not wish to see a repeat of. Law enforcements agencies have been hard at work as they endeavour to see successful prosecutions against those that allegedly perpetuated the looting. With close to four hundred lives, infrastructure vandalised and the economy negatively affected, the unrest was not only unfortunate, but should also be seen in the negative light it brought to South Africa. Like most South Africans, the Sasria SOC Ltd was largely affected by the riots as there has been an unprecedented number of claims, most of which have been assessed and settled. We are thankful to the support government, particularly the Treasury, has given us. Kaya 959
Loadshedding is a constitutional issue – says stakeholder taking Eskom to court over loadshedding.
As several high-profile leaders and major groups say they have no other choice but to take government, Eskom, and the National Energy Regulator of SA (Nersa) to court over the load shedding crisis, President Cyril Ramaphosa has cancelled his “working trip” to the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) gathering in Davos, Switzerland.
UDM leader Bantu Holomisa, who has backed prominent advocate Tembeka Ngcukaitobi SC to take government and Eskom to court, told News24 that ANC leaders have failed “dismally” in handling the energy crisis. Kaya 959
South Africa's mining production contracted by 4.5% year-on-year in September.
The largest negative contributors were iron-ore (-23.1% and contributing -2.7 percentage points) and gold (-12.4% and contributing -2.1 percentage points).
Financial services provider Nedbank's Economic Unit points out that the September reading marks an eighth straight month of contraction. Kaya 959
What better person for matric pupils to be inspired by than a PhD holder who failed three years twice each in high school?
Doctor Sanele Gamede has launched a campaign #MatricUngazibulali (Matric, do not commit suicide) aimed at combating thoughts and acts of suicide by pupils who have failed the exams or did not get the results they had hoped for. Kaya 959
South Africa is driving economic growth in one of the most exciting continents in the world, but navigating the complex environment can be a burdensome endeavour without the right help on board.
Economic growth in sub-Saharan Africa should significantly outpace the global average over the next three years, according to the World Bank, with an increase in investment likely to boost the continent’s growth to more than 5%. South Africa is the powerhouse of Africa and very much the driving force behind this expansion, with the most advanced, broad-based economy in Africa with infrastructure to match any first-world country. Kaya 959
Career anxiety is a stressful or worried state that many people face through challenging times in their professions. It can occur in many situations, such as when a person changes jobs, enters the workforce, switches careers, receives extra responsibilities or implements a period of increased productivity at work. Understanding how to manage these emotions can boost your psychological well-being and increase your chances of professional success. Kaya 959
The Johannesburg Stock Exchange has been a poor place to invest over the last decade – but that doesn’t mean there isn’t future opportunity.
This is the view of Rory Kutisker-Jacobson, fund manager at Allan Gray.
“An investment at the end of September 2007 would have generated a rand return of 8.5% per annum over the subsequent 15 years, and a pretty disappointing 1.7% per annum when measured in dollars. In contrast, an investment in the S&P 500 over this 15-year period would have yielded a return of 8.0% per annum in dollars.” Kaya 959
Load shedding trips up small businesses again as Eskom struggles to keep the lights on.
As load shedding plunges the country into darkness for several hours every day, small businesses have been hit hard financially.
Last week, the country saw Stage 6 load shedding implemented, which then dropped to Stage 5, before moving to Stage 4 on Saturday.
The reprieve was short-lived as Eskom scaled up load shedding back to Stage 5 by Saturday afternoon. Kaya 959
A Vosloorus-born “kasi boy” who is making furniture for big hotels is aiming to spread his wings all over, providing services to the hospitality industry across the country with a big dream of one day becoming a significant role-player in the field.
Although Thato Senosi, 36, produces, maintains and repairs furniture for big and small hotels and bed and breakfasts, he does not sideline household demands. Kaya 959
Absenteeism and poor performance are without a doubt two of the most challenging employment management issues that employers struggle with on a continuous basis. Employers become despondent about the impact on productivity and service levels, and increasingly frustrated with employees who are unreliable and cannot be trusted to deliver. Looking for a quick fix when reaching the point where frustration levels become intolerable, is not the answer. Introduction Absenteeism and poor performance are two of the most unmanaged areas in the workplace – which can be due to fear of conflict, procrastination, lack of control and in many instances, lack of knowledge. Kaya 959
NSIDE YOUR BUSINESS - Penalties to be imposed on businesses that fail to submit their 2022 annual employment equity (EE) reports.
Penalties to be imposed on businesses that fail to submit their 2022 annual employment equity (EE) reports A new set of transformation laws for South Africa is slated for implementation by 2023. This means that organizations, especially those that do business with the state, will have to be in good standing when it comes to compliance with EE. The department said that designated employers need to submit their annual 2022 employment equity (EE) reports by 15 January 2023 at midnight. Kaya 959
SA ESTIMATED TO EXPAND BY ONLY 1.9% IN 2022, WHILE NIGERIA AND ANGOLA ARE BOTH EXPECTED TO GROW BY 3.1%
Growth in the three largest Sub-Saharan economies — Nigeria, SA and Angola — pulled back sharply with SA, the region’s second-largest economy, growing the least as electricity shortages worsened and policy tightening was accelerated to curb inflation, the World Bank says. Kaya 959
Unemployment, interest rate increases, and rising living costs will see many homeowners giving up their homes this year.
Some will be forced to downscale while others will find themselves in the rental market or moving back home. Kaya 959
Looking ahead, Dyer believes that with most of the interest rate hikes now behind us, the following six property trends will lead the way in 2023.
ooba’s latest statistics indicate that while Western Cape remains a strong contender in the property realm, and, while prices have been slowing the most rapidly, average purchase price remains the highest among the major regions. “The appeal of the Western Cape clearly does not lie in the relative affordability of homes but rather in the lifestyle offering, the relative security and the competency of municipal management.” Kaya 959
Pharma industry seeks meeting with officials over ‘puzzling’ medicine price increase set by health minister
SA’s key industry association for pharmaceutical manufacturers is to seek a meeting with senior health officials over the “puzzling” 3.28% maximum price increase for private sector medicine sales in 2023.
The Pharmaceutical Task Group (PTG) says it had anticipated a price hike broadly in line with average consumer price inflation for 2022, which the SA Reserve Bank forecast in November would come in at 6.7%... Kaya 959
South Africa's manufacturing output fell 1.1% year on year in November after rising by 1.0% in October, statistics agency data showed on Tuesday.
Factory production rose 2.0% month on month in November. Analysts had predicted a 2.3% drop in annual terms and a 1.1% month-on-month drop
The largest negative contributions were made by food and beverages (decreasing by 2.5%); while wood and wood products, paper, publishing and printing fell 4.5% and petroleum, chemical products, rubber and plastic products were down 2.5%. Kaya 959
Online retail study revealed that South Africa reached R55 billion in 2022, a 35% year-on-year increase.World Wide Worx and Mastercard’s online retail study revealed that South Africa reached R55 billion in 2022, a 35% year-on-year increase.
Online sales growth was driven by a boom in demand for home deliveries which started during the extended lockdowns.
World Wide Worx CEO Arthur Goldstuck predicts that online retail will grow by 25% this year, generating R68 billion in sales. Kaya 959
New year, new promotion? Many of you might have pledged in your New Year’s resolutions to boost your career. But it has been a weird time for the UK’s job market with record-high job vacancies in some sectors, while tech and finance companies cut back amid predictions of a recession. Here are the top tips and tricks to secure a step up at work. Kaya 959
is a general misconception that banks and other financial institutions may be trusted with wills and estates. They look so “great” and after all, they are the financial giants of the world – surely they are equipped to look after my assets after my death? Maybe those that believe this should reconsider. It could prevent a catastrophy for the surviving spouse and heirs. Kaya 959
South African authorities will meet peers from a global financial watchdog next week as they seek to avert being placed on its so-called grey list denoting nations with shortcomings in tackling illicit financial flows.
A delegation led by the National Treasury’s acting director general Ismail Momoniat will meet with the Financial Action Task Force’s Joint Group in Rabat, Morocco, on January 13, the National Treasury said on Friday in a statement. This comes after President Cyril Ramaphosa late last month signed into law two key pieces of legislation that were seen as important in addressing deficiencies flagged by the watchdog. Kaya 959
The rand has maintained its volatile nature in the first few days of the year with some dramatic moves last week, indicating that it is in for another bumpy ride in 2023.
“In the short term, the rand moves will still be dominated by what happens in the US, as fears of a recession still remain,” said TreasuryONE chief dealer Wichard Cilliers, adding that the range of R16.75-R17.35 over the next month is likely, “with some risks to break even weaker” Kaya 959
Sarah Lamb, head of client service at DataEQ talks about Capitec Bank is at risk of losing customers – and if customers make good on their threats to close their accounts and leave, banks like Discovery Bank stand to be the biggest winners.
This is one of the key findings from the latest DataEQ Banking Sentiment Index.
The index is based on over 4 million consumer social media posts about South African banks from 1 September 2021 to 31 August 2022. DataEQ then analysed posts for sentiment and conversation themes.
One big area analysed by the group is churn – the movement of banking customers from one bank to the next – where the analysis of conversation topics looked specifically at author intent.
Acquisition intent speaks to the purchase intent of consumers – ie, customers looking to join a bank – while cancellation intent tracks the threads made by current customers to leave a specific bank, DataEQ said.
The net score – derived by subtracting the acquisition intent from cancellation intent – indicates how likely a bank will see customers leaving or entering their business (churn).
Using this metric, DataEQ’s data shows that among the major banks, Capitec, FNB and Standard Bank are the most likely to see customers leave, with the other banks being more likely to gain new business.
Here, Capitec is the biggest potential loser with a net intent score of -1.7%, while Discovery stands to get the most business with a net intent score of +6.5%. kaya 959
Mkhuleko Hlengwa – Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) talks about Mkhuleko Hlengwa (born 12 June 1987) is a South African politician who serves as a Member of the National Assembly for the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP). He is the Chairperson of parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA). He became a Member of the National Assembly in February 2012 and has served on the SCOPA committee since 2014. Hlengwa was previously the National Chairperson of the IFP Youth Brigade.
Life and career
Hlengwa was born in Durban. His father, Mhlabunzima Hlengwa, served as an IFP MP from 1994 until 2004. He became a party activist at the young age of 10 in 1997 and soon became National Chairperson of the IFP Youth Brigade.
He was sworn in as a Member of the National Assembly in May 2012 and consequently became one of the youngest parliamentarians.
Following his re-election in May 2014, Hlengwa became a member of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts.
In June 2019, the African National Congress offered the SCOPA chairpersonship to the IFP. The party accepted and nominated Hlengwa to head the committee. He took office in July 2019. Mthokozisi Nxumalo succeeded him as National Chairperson of the IFP Youth Brigade. kaya 959
Sinenhlanhla Sithomo - Head of Insurance Business: Investec Life talks about A December 2021 report by the Chief Risk Officer’s (CRO) Forum shows that over the past decade there has been a significant shift in insurance claims from physical to mental health with ailments such as burnout, anxiety, and depression overtaking musculoskeletal impairments and neurological diseases. With the latest data from the SA College of Applied Psychology indicating that only 27% of severe mental illnesses in the country are treated, Sithomo says undiagnosed mental health conditions could be a hidden crisis facing the insurance industry.
“As an insurer your biggest risk isn’t actually the people who are disclosing their mental health issues, it’s the people who aren’t aware of their condition and aren’t being treated,” says Sithomo. “Once your mental health claims start ticking up above your musculoskeletal claims your amber flags are no longer amber, they are red flags at that point.”
One challenge for insurers is that developing objective diagnostic measurement tools for mental health conditions is not as cut-and-dried as doing so for medical conditions such as cancer or heart disease. When assessing mental health risk underwriters have to rely on questionnaires, which have traditionally given insufficient consideration to clients’ social support structures, often resulting in adverse underwriting outcomes for applicants that should have been deemed low risk.
“Clients who proactively seek care and disclose a mental health condition also tend to receive harsher underwriting outcomes compared to those who do not seek care and remain undiagnosed,” says Sithomo. “This is why it’s critical that we begin to transform our underwriting protocols and incorporate as many of the biopsychosocial factors in risk assessment for clients with mental health conditions.”
Interestingly, Sithomo says the catalyst for placing greater emphasis on mental health conditions has not been the economic stresses that have surfaced in the wake of Covid-19. In fact, he says Investec Life first began looking at mental health in 2018 when advisers began reporting increased mental health complaints from young doctors.
Since then, the insurer has been looking at ways to better assess the mental health of its fairly well-off client base with Sithomo saying rising income protection claims attributed to mental health are regarded as the “first amber flag” that the client population is under stress.
A sustained increase in these claims is typically followed by a spike in long-term disability lump sum claims from mental health related issues. Unfortunately, these claims are often followed by increased death claims from suicide.
While suicide typically has a two-year exclusion for claims, once that time period has passed insurers are liable to pay out meaning it is in both their and their clients interest that mental health interventions take place earlier rather than later. Improving the identification of mental health risks during the underwriting process is one way to do this but stigma can be a problem, particularly among male clients.
“As life insurers, we can contribute towards the destigmatisation of mental health by making changes in the way we underwrite these conditions,” says Sithomo. “Greater awareness will go a long way towards destigmatising mental health as people begin to better understand their own mental health status and become open to disclosing the potential challenges they encounter when they seek out treatment. This shift is certainly in the interest of the life insurance industry.” kaya 959
Mamello Matikinca-Ngwenya, FNB Chief Economist talks about South African consumers are gaining confidence in the economy, according to the latest FNB/BER Consumer Confidence Index (CCI), with middle-class and upper-income South Africans reigniting a spark in consumer spending.
The overall index, compiled by FNB with the Bureau for Economic Research (BER) recovered from -20 to -8 points during the fourth quarter of 2022.
This, after the index plunged to -25 index points during the second quarter of this year, said FNB.
“Even though a reading of -8 still signifies depressed consumer sentiment, the scope of the rebound relative to the third quarter comes as a surprise given the sustained high inflation, frequent load shedding, successive significant interest rate hikes and a worsening global economic backdrop,” FNB said.
A rebound in consumer sentiment shows an improvement in willingness to spend. Despite the will to spend more, consumers’ ability to do also needs to improve to translate into a significant increase in household consumption, the bank said.
FNB’s chief economist Mamello Matikinca-Ngwenya said that while sharper interest rate hikes are still on the horizon, consumer sentiment is significantly improving.
This is positive news for the economy and suggests that household consumption expenditure is holding up – or even expanding slightly – despite difficult economic conditions, said Matikinca-Ngwenya.
The most recent movements by the CCI bring consumer sentiment more or less in line with the level attained during the same period last year (-9), as well as the year before (-7).
The graph below, provided by FNB, indicates the CCIs movement since 1994. kaya 959
Keith Lockwood, Independent consultant talks about Altron FinTech’s latest Short-term Credit Impact (AFSCI) Index for the third quarter of 2022 shows a 0.9% quarter-on-quarter increase in net short-term credit extension.
The index tracks the impact of short-term credit extension on the South African economy on a quarterly basis.
“Based on National Credit Regulator (NCR) data for the second quarter of 2022, there was a significant increase of almost 10% in the AFSCI Index when compared with the first quarter of the year. However, relative to a year earlier, the index is down just over 1%,” says independent economist Keith Lockwood.
Data from trends in short-term credit extension that are now supported by data from Altron FinTech, providing a useful indicator of likely trends in the third quarter of 2022, points to a further quarter-on-quarter increase in net short-term credit extension of 0.9% in the third quarter of 2022.
Another key finding is that, while short-term credit made 12% less of an impact on the economy in the second quarter of 2022 than it did at the start of 2015 – the baseline year of the index – it is now making 111% more of an impact than it did at the height of the Covid-19 lockdowns in the second quarter of 2020.
“The South African economy was impacted by a range of developments in the second and third quarters of 2022. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine further disrupted global supply chains – already impacted by Chinese Covid-19-related lockdowns – causing food and energy commodity prices to spike,” says Lockwood.
“This contributed to rapidly rising inflationary pressures and monetary tightening both globally and in South Africa, which caused the post-Covid-19 recovery to lose momentum. Many countries, particularly those where household debt to disposable income levels are already at historically high levels, are experiencing a cost-of-living crisis and there are concerns that a number of advanced economies will experience recessions.”
While South Africa was spared some of these impacts owing to its comparatively lower household debt levels, household spending remains under pressure because of persistently high unemployment levels, rising inflation, higher debt servicing costs and extended declines in real per capita incomes.
“The domestic economy has also faced additional headwinds from increased industrial action – particularly at Transnet – and from increased disruptions to electricity supply from Eskom.”
With a large number of South African households generating income below the poverty line, with average monthly household expenditure ranging from as little as R920 a month to R7 450 a month in Expenditure Deciles 1 to 5, and given other expenditure priorities, the capacity of these households to take on, and service, additional debt is limited. kaya 959
Peter Laburn is the founder of Lead with Humanity talks about Resilience fatigue has hit. Global economic upheaval, the climate crisis and social turmoil — to say nothing of our local experiences of load shedding, water cuts and political instability — has made the expectation and experience of being resilient exhausting.
And yet there’s no doubting its ongoing relevance. The challenges of the day are showing no sign of abating. In fact, they’re likely to continue to morph into ever-more complex scenarios. We still need to be resilient (or something like it), even though we feel increasingly disinclined to do so.
As we look forward to a new year — and hopefully a better one at that — how do we reframe resilience?
Defining resilience, and seeing its pitfalls
Resilience is the ability to go back to a previous state of equilibrium — to where you were before a current challenge or crisis hit. It assumes that you have already experienced an optimal or balanced state, that you want to return to it, and that you will recognise it when you come across it again.
The ability to be resilient requires several key ingredients. It requires self-compassion, an understanding for who you are and what you’re capable of, and support from people who know you and whom you trust. And it takes the ability to be creative and innovative, to set goals, and to try new things.
While the business world is often better at resilience than many of us are in our personal capacities — thanks, in part, to the risk assessment and disaster management plans many have in place — this does not make them immune. And even large companies require mentorship, coaching and advice, especially when it comes to large and unpredictable events, as the pandemic taught us.
In most definitions, resilience implies an element of regression, though this is often considered a positive occurrence rather than a negative one. You go back to a previous position. You return to your former health after an operation. Your business recovers from a setback and becomes what it was before.
But this assumption is counterintuitive, even dangerous. Perhaps you don’t want to go back to how things were before, or can’t. Perhaps part of the reason you’re in the current predicament is because what came before simply wasn’t working. Rather than resilience, then, isn’t there an alternative? A way of moving forward through the crisis and into a better, more robust future? kaya 959
Lesego Moganetsi founder & Operations Manager of Streamz Pay talks about how Local Entrepreneurs create can alternative banking solution allowing cheap instant transfer of money. kaya 959
Collen Dlamini is the Group Executive: Corporate Affairs for MultiChoice Group talks about Following the success of the MultiChoice Africa Accelerator Programme, which secured $16 million (USD) of funding for six emerging businesses last year, the programme has been expanded to eight more countries across Africa.
Many more small businesses in Africa’s technology sector now have the chance to benefit from the 2023 programme, which provides the skills and opportunities needed to attract transformative business funding.
“We’re really excited to be expanding the MultiChoice Africa Accelerator Programme to more African countries,” said Calvo Mawela, MultiChoice Group CEO, announcing the launch. “It’s part of our long-term commitment to growing and multiplying Africa’s technology potential, which is critical to our future growth.”
The MultiChoice Africa Accelerator Programme, which kicked off during Global Entrepreneurship Week, is aimed at established start-ups and small enterprises in specific technology sectors – healthtech, agritech, fintech, edutech, the circular economy and the creative industries.
“There is such incredible business talent across Africa,” said Mawela. “MultiChoice Africa Accelerator is an opportunity for investors and small enterprise to collaborate to multiply the impact of this talent and scale it across Africa.”
Having started in South Africa in 2021, the MultiChoice Africa Accelerator is expanding to Ivory Coast, Senegal, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Zambia, Angola and Ethiopia. The initiative equips emerging entrepreneurs to secure funding and scale up their businesses, and also provides opportunities to pitch to international investors.
African Development Bank President Dr Akinwumi Adesina has previously noted that, “the private sector is Africa’s growth accelerator”, and several African nations have backed small-business development as part of their economic strategy. The MultiChoice Africa Accelerator dovetails with these development objectives. kaya 959
Laura Pycraft - Career Coach and Talent Management Expert talks about You May Get A 'Quiet Promotion' And Not Realize Until It's Too Late
There's a difference between a stretch opportunity and this exploitative behavior.
Quiet promotions can lead to quiet quitting. Don't let this happen to you.
If you have ever felt like you are doing work that goes above and beyond your job title, you might have gotten a “quiet promotion.”
They often take place after a company layoff or when a co-worker goes on leave. With your team short-staffed, extra responsibilities and the duties of your departed colleagues may be piled on you without a change in pay or job title. “You do the job of two people for the price of one,” said career strategist Ana Goehner.
Too many of us feel like we’ve been given a quiet promotion. When JobSage surveyed 1,000 full-time U.S. employees in October, three out of four said their workload has increased without additional compensation.
If you keep being asked to do more and be a team player, you could be dealing with a quiet promotion.
Ana Goehner, a career strategist who has been quietly promoted a few times when she worked in corporate jobs, said for her it stemmed from not knowing how to say no to additional work.
“As an over-achiever immigrant, I wanted to be a team player and get things done. I thought a heavy workload was the only way to receive a promotion. I took on backup work from peers, and it became my responsibility. I did more than my colleagues, earned less and kept the same title,” she said. “It took me years to realize that doing the job of two people was unsustainable. I got very sick.”
Goehner said the constant cycle of job-related stress took a toll on her body and mind. She would emotionally eat and sustained back and knee issues, stomach pain and migraines, and she needed physical therapy.
“I felt in a state of fight-or-flight daily,” she noted. “My mental health was affected, and I didn’t know how to relax and get out of that anxious state. I was experiencing burnout, working with therapists and trying my best to keep going.“
“It took me years to realize that doing the job of two people was unsustainable. I got very sick.” kaya 959
Rob Gardner – Founder of MyTank talks about A recently-launched online app in South Africa shows motorists which fuel stations they should use for the cheapest refills and best cash-back rewards from their banking and other fuel rewards programmes.
The tool — called MyTank — was developed by Capetonian Rob Gardner and is available on a browser at mytank.co.za or as an Android app.
Gardner describes himself as an entrepreneur interested in tech and product design.
MyTank is his first app and was initially just a loose idea, but he decided to run with it as he thought it could add a lot of value to the average user.
He initially created the app focusing on the diesel price because this could vary significantly from station to station within a small area.
By adding the rewards section, the app has also become relevant to petrol buyers that pay the same, regulated retail price for their fuel within the same areas, but might get wildly varying cash-back rewards depending on the stations they use.
“Some of the rewards programmes are notoriously hard to decode, so I wanted to provide a simple ‘apples-for-apples’ comparison and keep it super easy and intuitive with just enough info to allow users to make informed decisions,” Gardner explained.
“I worked out I was sometimes getting less back in rewards than what it cost in fuel driving to a specific fuel station.”
“The app does all the sums for you and just tells you where to go and what rewards programme to use if you have several.”
By default, the free website-based tool and app have a map that shows where the user can find fuel stations and allows users to see the price of filling up a 55-litre tank at each of these outlets.
That includes the cost of fuel for driving to the station from the user’s location.
To search for available stations, you must either agree to provide your location or enter it manually in a search bar. kaya 959
Hayley Ivins-Downes, head of Digital at Lightstone talks about Johannesburg, South Africa – November 2022: South Africa’s residential property is facing domestic and global headwinds after bouncing back positively from Covid-19, according to Lightstone, a provider of comprehensive data, analytics and systems on property, automotive and business assets.
Hayley Ivins-Downes, head of Digital at Lightstone, said rising interest rates, socio-political tensions and a limp economy bedevilled by intermittent power were dampening consumer spirits in South Africa, while abroad the Russian invasion of Ukraine and numerous other geo-political hotspots were unsettling global stability.
Despite all these factors, South Africa’s residential property was showing pockets of progress and opportunity.
Overall transfer volumes were continuing their uneven trajectory, with 2022 anticipated to reach around 330 000, well down from the high of 493 000 recorded just prior to the 2008 crash.
However, if sales in 2022 hit 330 000, it would match the 2021 Covid-19 bounce-back from 263 000 and similar volumes last recorded in 2017 and 2018. kaya 959
Natasha Champion, Regional Sales Manager for OOBA talks about Bond Applications for New Developments Are on the Up - Here’s What’s Driving Demand
New residential developments (also known as off-plan properties) have experienced a notable surge in popularity among South African homebuyers, and this trend is set to accelerate for the foreseeable future.
Data from ooba Home Loans, South Africa’s leading home loan comparison service, shows an increase in approved home loans for new developments – up from 6.89% in October 2021 to 14.99% in September 2022 – a 117% increase year-on-year.
“The key factors driving the demand for lock-up-and-go properties such as these are linked to stock shortages of affordable free-hold homes in sought-after areas and the reduced costs of buying into a new development due to zero transfer duties, plus the benefits housing developments can offer buyers,” comments Rhys Dyer, ooba Group CEO.
“Homebuyers are also attracted to the convenience and luxury of on-site amenities such as gyms, swimming pools, restaurants and kiosks, the enhanced safety and security, as well as the prospect of being surrounded by a community.” kaya 959
Elizabeth Makhafola – STATS SA Director for National and provincial government institutions talks about Stats SA has published its annual breakdown of government spending for the 2021/22 financial year, showing exactly where taxpayers’ money is going.
This year marked the first time that government spending exceeded the R2 trillion mark, Stats SA said, with total budget allocations at R2.1 trillion.
Large increases in expenditure were recorded for social protection, health, and general public services as the country battled the Covid-19 pandemic, it said. At the same time, total revenue declined on the back of lower taxes received.
Stats SA’s breakdown of finances for the year covers 701 institutions that include national and provincial government departments, municipalities, extra-budgetary accounts and funds, and higher education institutions.
The general government recorded a decline in total revenue in 2020/21, mainly due to decreased tax collection, it said.
Total tax revenue dropped by R109 billion (-7.4%) from R1.47 trillion in 2019/20 to R1.36 trillion in 2020/21. Tax revenue was down across the board, with the most significant decreases recorded by individual tax (down R41 billion), excise tax (down R22 billion), value-added tax (down R16 billion) and business tax (down R13 billion).
Other taxes recorded a decrease of R17 billion.
The decline in taxes paid by businesses was mainly due to lower economic activity as a result of the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns. The decline in excise taxes was mainly associated with the lockdown bans on the sale of alcohol and tobacco.
Despite lower revenues, social spending increased significantly during the year. Total expenditure increased by 7.1% (or R140 billion) between 2019/20 and 2020/21, from R1.96 trillion to R2.10 trillion.
Social protection, general public services and health were the biggest factors behind the increase.
Spending on social protection rose by R84 billion, from R286 billion to R370 billion. Social protection involves government intervention that is intended to mitigate the impact of social risks on households and individuals. This includes the payment and administration of sickness and disability, family and children, old age and unemployment grants.
Two projects – the Social Relief of Distress (SDR) grant and the Temporary Employee/Employer Relief Scheme (TERS) – were introduced to minimise the socio-economic impact of the pandemic. These projects contributed to the R84 billion increase in social spending, Stats SA said. kaya 959
Joe de Beer - DDG: Responsible for economic statistics talks about Stats SA has published the latest gross domestic product numbers for the third quarter of 2022, showing surprising growth of 1.6% in the quarter.
The growth beat out market expectations by some margin – consensus among economists and analysts was that the economy would grow 0.4% for the quarter, given the heightened levels of load shedding taking place. At best, optimistic views were for 0.7%.
According to Stats SA, however, the output from the country’s various economic sectors was higher than anticipated, and the reported number is four times higher than the predictions. kaya 959
Neville Brink - Chief Executive Officer talks about JSE-listed global fishing Company Oceana says a spike in consumer demand for more pocket-friendly protein has supported the 17% increase in headline earnings per share (Heps) from continuing operations to 626 cents, up from 536.2 cents in 2021.
In a Sens release on Monday – reporting on the group’s 2022 performance for the period ended 30 September – Oceana said that as food prices continue to rise, it expects the demand for such proteins to continue supporting the company’s recovery.
Oceana owns various tinned fish products such as canned pilchards and canned tuna, among others, selling them mainly under the Lucky Star brand.
“Consumer demand for affordable protein and the relative value that Lucky Star provides compared to competing proteins ensured a strong recovery in sales in the second half, after stock constraints hampered the first-half performance,” the group said.
“Sales volumes in the second half increased by 8%, notwithstanding an effective 8% price increase.”
“Fish, particularly canned fish, is an affordable, healthy source of protein for many South African families as the Kasi Brands survey confirmed when it found Lucky Star tinned fish to be the top township brand. The demand was always there, and the second-half sales volumes improved when we were able to replenish our stocks,” CEO Neville Brink said in a statement.
“This as well as global demand for fishmeal and fish oil and the Daybrook performance contributed to a set of results we’re very pleased with, particularly given the constrained global and local economies,” Brink added. kaya 959
Madelain Roscher, crisis communications expert and CEO of PR Worx talks about how It’s been two weeks since fashion brand Balenciaga first launched its holiday horror “Gift Collection” advertising campaign, featuring disturbing images of young children holding handbags in the shape of teddy bears wearing bondage gear.
The outrage that followed still shows no sign of abating despite the company immediately removing the images from its social media and issuing multiple apologies for their grievous errors which hypersexualised young children.
Due to her delayed response and refusal to cut ties with Balenciaga, Kim Kardashian's personal brand has taken a severe knock simply by association.
As a long-time brand ambassador for the company, Kardashian wore a stand-out faceless Balenciaga gown to the 2021 Met Gala and even walked the runway for their July fashion show in Paris. Although she had no input into this particular campaign’s faux pas, it was inevitable that audiences would look to her to condemn the campaign and take a firm stance against the sexualisation of children and child pornography.
Instead, her poor crisis planning, and weak responses have received widespread criticism, enveloping her in the ongoing public backlash.
So, while many have spoken about the potential dangers of influencer marketing, what should you do when it is the other way around, and your personal brand as an influencer is negatively impacted by the actions of others? kaya 959
Monique Schehle – Insights Consultant at Momentum Metropolitan talks about Volunteerism is much needed beacon of light and positivity in South Africa. After a decline during the COVID-19 pandemic, corporate volunteerism is again thriving in the South African private sector 1,2, with many larger companies now having employee volunteering programmes (EVPs). Given the surge of activity in this space, Momentum Metropolitan recently commissioned a comprehensive research study, the Momentum Metropolitan Lesedi Report, which delved deeper into the post-pandemic state of volunteerism in South Africa.
Driven by Momentum Metropolitan’s Corporate Social Investment (CSI) arm, the research was conducted among its employees, employees from other major corporations and representatives from various local non-profit organisations (NPOs).
Tshego Bokaba, CSI Manager at Momentum Metropolitan, explains that volunteerism is something the corporate actively and formally champions. “While our CSI mandate is centred around youth empowerment and employment, we want to encourage employees to support those causes closest to their hearts – while at the same time uplifting their communities.” kaya 959
rica Liebenberg, JustMoney Editor talks about Invest in your child’s financial future this festive season
2 December 2022
Most families are stretching their budgets in order to make the festive season memorable for their children, within the constraints of soaring living costs and concerns about what the New Year may bring. Shiny toys, which can soon break or be outgrown, are often the gift of choice; and certainly, as stocking fillers, they can add a lot of colour and fun.
However, when it comes to bigger-ticket expenditure, it’s well worth considering a financial gift instead. While a present of money may seem unimaginative, when carefully chosen, this can be of inestimable value in the years to come.
Grandparents could, for example, establish a money market account for a grandchild whose birth is imminent. This could also serve as a useful cushion to cover initial expenses, and prevent young parents from falling into debt.As the baby matures, and if funds are limited, an old-fashioned piggy bank, or a glass jar containing some coins or notes, will help the child visualise how money grows.
Time is another gift that cash-strapped grandparents can give, says Shafeeka Anthony, Marketing Manager of JustMoney.co.za, a website that assists South Africans to make the most of their finances. “Start a conversation from an early age about how money can grow, show a child how you manage your own spending, and you will pass on valuable financial lessons.”
When considering savings and investments for a child, do your homework first, Anthony recommends. Selecting an investment, she notes, is similar to planting a seed, in that you need to choose the seed carefully and provide suitable conditions for optimal growth. “Considerations include how much risk you are prepared to take, as this will influence returns. Investments also have tax implications. It’s worth discussing options with your bank manager or personal financial adviser.” kaya 959
Cas Coovadia - Business Unity South Africa (Busa) talks about Should South African President Cyril Ramaphosa resign, economic policy won’t change, the country’s Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana said, while stressing that he expects him to stay in his post.
Ramaphosa is seen as the driving force behind South Africa’s bid to liberalize its power sector and throw its economy open to private investment, but Godongwana emphasized that policy is determined by the governing African National Congress and isn’t tied to any individual.
“Any president is not going to pursue individualistic policies outside the framework of the party,” Godongwana said in an interview with Bloomberg Television on Friday. Economic measures that will be announced in the February budget will follow from last month’s budget update, he said.
South African markets were roiled this week after an advisory panel established by parliament found grounds for lawmakers to consider impeaching Ramaphosa over his alleged failure to properly report a robbery at his game farm — during which he says $580,000 hidden in a sofa was stolen — and potential violations of the constitution.
The day after the findings were released, the nation’s currency posted its worst one-day loss since May, while the government’s borrowing costs surged the most since 2015. The price of South African five-year credit default swaps climbed by the most since March 2020, indicating investor nervousness about political instability.
Still, those securities have now clawed back some ground. The rand rallied as much as 1.8% after Godongwana’s interview, and government bonds jumped.
In 2008, Thabo Mbeki, the president under whom South Africa saw its best post-apartheid economic growth, stepped down under pressure from the ANC after losing an intra-party electoral vote. And in 2018, Jacob Zuma was forced to quit after a series of corruption scandals eroded his party’s electoral support. kaya 959
Erik Smuts – Nampak CEO Talks about “in 2022 we faced some operational headwinds while leveraging the available tailwinds. the sa beverage can market experienced unprecedented growth; and volumes in angola during the last quarter grew by almost 30%, exceeding our expectations.”
he added, “revenue increased by 21%, lifted by higher volumes and unusually high commodity prices. despite the strong contributions from our beverage cans and liquid paper businesses to a pleasing trading profit, an increase in foreign exchange losses, higher interest rates and increased impairments contributed to a lower net profitability.”
smuts noted that efforts to dispose of certain assets yielded no tangible results preventing nampak from reducing debt and required the extension of certain maturity dates and relaxation of covenants. nampak will approach shareholders for approval for a rights issue. he said, “with a strengthened balance sheet, we can focus on our operations to leverage growth opportunities for the benefit of our stakeholders.”
in the 2022 financial year, nampak delivered strong revenue growth of 21% (r16.9bn), underpinned by stronger volumes in our sa beverage can market, angola, nigeria and zimbabwe. despite challenging trading conditions green shoots of recovery were evident in some markets. trading profit improved 13% to r1.6bn as the pass-through pricing mechanisms in most of our businesses allowed for the recovery of increased input costs, but without the recovery of the incremental cost of funding the higher working capital, group trading margins declined to 9.5% from 10.2% in the prior year.
stringent overhead management was applied in an inflationary environment. we focused on improving our trading performance and were pleased with the strong recovery in the beverage can operations, however these were diluted by a disappointing result from divfood and the impact of the depreciation of the zimbabwe dollar on the rand-reported results of our zimbabwe operations.
cost of sales was impacted by high metals prices, due to challenging supply chains with concomitant increases in logistics and shipping costs. operating profit was assisted by a moderate 1% decrease in core employee costs, complemented by strong trading results from bevcan sa and nigeria, and a recovery in bevcan angola. our zimbabwe operations continued to perform well and remained self-funding. a once-off insurance loss of r50 million was incurred. kaya 959
Khaya Sithole – Independent Analyst talks about The various topics covered in the case study – Steinhoff’s business vision and fast-expanding operation over the years, and the company’s approach to governance and leadership – provide some important business lessons for small entrepreneurial concerns and large corporates alike.
Lesson #1: Be true to your strategic vision and ‘stick to the knitting’
Strategy theory suggests (ref: 1) that strategy development over time is more about making wise choices initially and deepening one’s competitive position than going too broad and trying to be all things to everyone.
Although the diversity of the Steinhoff businesses might give some people the impression that the company lacks a core identity and has chased acquisitions in a somewhat random fashion, the company’s long-term vision has always been to control its various value chains, thereby moderating costs, keeping competitors at bay and striving for ever-higher levels of efficiency and market share.
This is an important element in its fundamental strategy of sourcing and manufacturing goods in low-cost countries and selling them to value-conscious buyers in more lucrative markets.
Former Steinhoff chairman Christo Wiese and the company’s executives appear at a parliamentary hearing into the Steinhoff scandal on January 31, 2018 in Cape Town, South Africa. Replying to questions, Wiese said, detecting fraud within a company was hugely difficult for board members‚ especially if the CEO was allegedly involved. (Netwerk24 / Adrian de Kock)
Although Steinhoff’s operation is today very geographically dispersed and it has progressed from being primarily a furniture supplier to a more holistic supplier of ‘lifestyle’ products, the company has not deviated too far from its fundamental business strategy and target market. In making the strategic choice to expand its product and service offerings but operate as a vertically integrated business, Steinhoff acknowledges that benefits can be derived from moving almost seamlessly into ‘adjacent market space’ using its pre-eminent position in related value chains.
Whereas a horizontal integration approach would require a business to operate alongside myriad other businesses in a ‘value chain neighbourhood’, with a vertical integration approach Steinhoff effectively ‘owns the neighbourhood’.
Lesson #2: Growth does not equate to profit or success
Organisations that deliver consistently strong performance over extended periods of time invariably practise a controlled growth strategy in which future expansion and investments are carefully planned and executed. (ref: 2) The hallmark of truly great companies is that they have the discipline to hold back and moderate their growth plans so as not to experience resource constraints and fatigue, or end up in financial difficulties during lean times when the cash they accumulated during bumper years is all but exhausted.
Steinhoff’s extremely rapid acquisition drive, particularly in more recent years, was clearly unsustainable. The nature of its investments (large, new regions and new product lines) signalled a high-risk approach which should have raised more questions from shareholders and the board about the company’s ability to sustain all the new acquisitions and ensure their profitability.
Although strong growth always seems impressive, it does not equal cash flow or profits. Such was the case with Steinhoff whose frenetic investment activity concealed highly complex business structures, high levels of debt and less-than-stellar performance within the Steinhoff group. The management team, and Markus Jooste in particular, painted a picture of a fast-growing and practically invincible corporate giant which was too good to be true, and this should have set off alarm bells among different stakeholder groups.
Lesson #3: Strong governance is not just about financial and regulatory compliance; it is a mindset
Most organisations extol kaya 959
Yvonne Diogo – Country Director MTV Staying Alive Foundation talks about Can television shows change how people think and act? In Nigeria,researchers evaluated the impact of MTV Shuga, a drama featuring educational storylines about HIV/AIDS on viewers’ sexual knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors. The study shows that exposure to MTV Shuga improved viewers’ knowledge and attitudes, increased HIV testing, reduced risky sex, and among women, led to fewer sexually transmitted infections.
Why is this a big deal?
MTV Shuga has been broadcast in 72 countries globally and is watched by huge audiences across MTV, Netflix and YouTube. Imagine how famous you’ll be!
MTV Shuga has a track record of creating stars. Thuso Mbedu, Malibongwe Mdwaba, and Samkelisiwe Makhoba all got their big break on MTV Shuga and look at them now!
MTV Shuga is a multi-award winning series which has positively impacted the lives of many youth across the world, by teaching them how to make better health choices and you could be part of this meaningful movement.
Monde Twala, MTV Staying Alive Foundation Board Member and MTv Shuga Down South audition judge said, “MTV Shuga Down South is the perfect platform to launch your career if you are passionate about acting. The series has added a great deal of value to former cast members and has seen our alumni gain acting and production experience which has furthered their careers in the performing arts. I am encouraging hopefuls to take that chance and send through their entries”.
Where are previous audition winners now?
Since acting on MTV Shuga Down South, Season 1 cast member, Samke Ndlovu has joined some of the biggest productions in the South African film and TV industry. She secured lead roles on SABC’s ‘Rented Family’, and Showmax’s medical drama 'Wounds’. She has starred in films too, including Mzansi Magic’s ‘Isibonakaliso’, Netflix’s ‘Collision’ and eVod’s ‘Surviving Gaza’. More recently, she was announced as a two-time nominee at the 2022 Africa Movie Academy Awards for her role as Thandeka, in the hit film ‘Surviving Gaza’. kaya 959
Maya Fisher-French - Personal financial journalist talks about If your debts are more than your monthly income, you will only be digging yourself into a deeper hole when spending your money over the festive season, according to Carla Oberholzer, DebtSafe spokesperson and debt advisor.
Oberholzer said that she would encourage people to calculate their debt-to-income ratio before they spend money they have not budgeted for or do not have.
“When it comes to keeping those money situations under control, proper debt management is now more crucial than ever,” Oberholzer said.
Debt-to-income ratio
The debt-to-income ratio, also known as DTI, is an important aspect of managing debt.
The DTI compares a person’s monthly income amount (gross – before deductions) to how much they owe (the total amount of their monthly debt obligations such as rent or loans).
How to calculate the debt-to-income ratio:
– (+) Add up monthly debts.
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– (÷) Divide the total debt amount by income before any deductions (gross salary amount) and then (x) multiply it by 100.
– (=) The final percentage (%) determines the debt-to-income ratio.
The different debt-to-income ratio categories
According to Oberholzer, a low debt-to-income ratio establishes a favourable balance between debt and income while a high percentage indicates a riskier situation.
0-20% debt-to-income ratio
Your debt, compared to your income is considered good, therefore you can continue to maintain your current financial situation.
Should you choose to shop this festive season, keep the following in mind:
– Do your research
– Ensure that what you are buying is the best deal.
– Make sure there is room in your budget.
– Is the item a need or a want?
0-40% debt-to-income ratio
Your debt amount compared to your income demonstrates a moderate financial position, therefore you should consider making small budget/lifestyle adjustments to decrease your overall debt amount.
41-60% debt-to-income ratio
This category shows that you are moving into risky territory so you should consider making significant changes to lower your overall monthly debt amount.
“Partaking in any upcoming sale events or unplanned-for shopping sprees is not recommended,” Oberholzer said.
60%+ debt-to-income ratio
Falling into the 60+ percentage category is cause for concern and signals over-indebtedness. You should seek out a professional that can help you return to a better financial position.
Oberholzer said, “Taking part in any Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Tech Tuesday, or Black November ‘sale-of-the-year’ buys is a definite no-no kaya 959
Zama Khanyile who is the Divisional Executive for Venture Capital and Corporate Finance at the National Empowerment Fund (NEF) talks about Just a little background that you may be aware of, the NEF was funded by Government in 2004 to the tune of R2.4 billion and since its operational inception in 2005, the NEF has approved a total of R12.77 billion across the country with a total project value of R21.44 billion. Over the past 12 years, 40% of the funding has been for the benefit of women-owned and managed businesses.
That is why all over the country, majority of beneficiaries from our entrepreneurship training, our incubation support as well as investor education interventions are women and many of them come from rural and peri-urban localities.
As we discussed, there has been and rightfully so, a distinct call for the industrialisation of South Africa’s economy. It is the conviction of a growing mass in our country that this quest will only find true fruition if women stand at the centre and forefront of this urgent and historic pursuit.
These potential female industrialists are those who would see prospects for growing the export market in a variety of sectors, including renewable energy, tourism, minerals beneficiation, agro-processing and business process outsourcing, which incorporates call centres, data storage centres, termination centres and more.
These potential women industrialists would see opportunities in textiles, mining; automobiles; renewable energy and biofuels, whether this is nuclear, solar, biomass, hydro, co-generation or wind. As visionaries for large-scale enterprises, these black industrialists would have an eye on plastics; pharmaceuticals and chemicals; forestry, pulp and paper. They will see opportunities in infrastructure, which of course includes telecommunications, healthcare, roads, rail, airports, dams and water. These industrialists would want to become players in manufacturing and tourism, which encompasses hotels, resorts, tourism attractions and leisure.
And as we discussed it is when women rise to take their places in the economy that they will find DFIs such as the NEF to provide financial and non-financial support hence our desire to engage with Kaya fm listeners. kaya 959
Makwe Mailela - Chief investment officer and founder at Makwe Fund Managers talks about Chemicals and energy group Sasol said on Thursday its first-half headline profit would rise by more than 20% year on year, boosted higher international oil prices and weaker rand.
But its SA operations were blighted by operational challenges in October and November ranging from coal quality to flooding that affected coal processing plants, loading-shedding as well unplanned safety stoppages.
The factors collectively affected production and sales volume performance during the second quarter of the financial year, as well the outlook for remainder of the financial year.
The impact of lower production from Secunda has a direct impact on the downstream chemicals value chains in SA.
Sasol’s force majeure on the local supply and export of certain chemicals products was largely lifted at the beginning of November with the end of the Transnet strike action in October. kaya 959
Andre Cilliers - Director And Currency Risk Strategist At Treasuryone talks about The South African Rand Buckled On Thursday (1 December) following findings from parliament’s section 89 panel that there is prima facie evidence that president Cyril Ramaphosa violated sections of the country’s Constitution.
The rand tanked 3% from R16.90 on Wednesday to R17.43 on Thursday as markets digested the findings and the implications for South Africa.
The independent panel appointed by parliament to investigate the President’s Phala Phala saga has recommended a full investigation as it believes Ramaphosa may have broken anti-corruption laws and violated the constitution.
Ramaphosa is now facing possible removal from his job just weeks before the ANC’s elective conference.
“The political crisis has weighed heavily on the rand, which fell to nearly after the news broke last night,” said TrasuryOne.
The rand closed at R17.17 on Wednesday after trading at R16.90 earlier in the day. Meanwhile, the local unit is sharply weaker against the euro and the pound. kaya 959
Janine Horn, financial adviser at Momentum talks about Gender-based violence is an unfortunate reality for too many women in South Africa. We often think that it only includes physical, mental, and emotional abuse. That is simply not the case. Financial abuse is incredibly prevalent in South Africa and exists in a majority of abusive relationships. In fact, financial abuse accounts for 99% of domestic abuse.
Financial abuse usually occurs in subtle way but can have extremely harmful effects. It is not just prevalent in marriages or life partnerships. It can take place between family members and in the workplace and corporate worlds. It is important to note that there are different forms of financial abuse, and it is even sometimes unknown to those being abused. While getting out of any abusive situation can be challenging, it is not impossible. kaya 959
Osborne Molatudi – Employment Law Specialist and MD of Molatudi Attorneys talks about While federal and state labor laws guarantee some protections and rights to a more traditional workforce (like protection from labor abuse, workplace harassment, and discrimination), freelancers are generally not covered by most of these regulations.
And while you may have known that, have you considered the other legal issues you might face as a freelancer? Have you thought about taxes, insurance, or how to protect your freelance business? Becoming a freelancer can be a rewarding career option, but there are several legal issues you should know about and plan for as you embark on—or continue—your freelance career. Here’s what you need to know about protecting yourself as a freelancer.
Start With Your Previous Employer
Before you take on your first freelance client, check any prior agreements you have with your current (or former) employer. You may have signed certain legal documents that could limit what you can and can’t do as a freelancer and who you can and can’t work with.
A non-compete agreement means that you won’t “compete” with your employer for a specific time after you end your employment. This could mean you can’t work in the same geographical market as your employer, but it could also mean that you can’t work in the same industry as your employer.
If there’s a non-solicitation agreement in place, you can’t solicit your employer’s clients or customers for your new business. It could also mean that you can’t hire former coworkers either.
A non-disclosure agreement means you can’t disclose certain aspects of your employment. While this may not seem like a big deal, it could limit how you do business (you can’t use the same business model they do, for example).
As you plan your freelance future, make sure you understand how these agreements could impact it. If you aren’t sure what rights your employer may have, speak to a qualified attorney for guidance. kaya 959
Nhlanhla Dlamini – Founder of Maneli Pets talks about Maneli Pets, founded by Nhalnhla Dlamini, is a South African business that makes pet food and treats and now supplies to 270 Checkers stores nationwide.
But it wasn't always that way. Just two years ago, things looked very dire indeed for the business.
Officially launched in 2018, Maneli started as a passion project while Dlamini was still a full-time management consultant.
The initial idea was to sell protein to the human market in the USA and Europe, but it wasn't easy since farmers and butchers from those countries do not want meat from other parts of the world, according to Dlamini.
“I didn’t set out wanting to build a pet business from day one. I was agnostic about what sort of manufacturing business it was, but it needed to tick a few boxes.
“It needed to be scalable, create as many jobs as possible, have an export leg because South Africa is small, and I wanted it to have a positive social impact,” Dlamini told Business Insider South Africa.
After exploring various business opportunities, the entrepreneur landed on pet food after a few of his friends in the USA mentioned that they were interested in South African proteins such as ostrich, venison, crocodile, and warthog.
Dlamini stared working with a butchery in Germiston, where they came up with different products and sent them out to pet owners.
Once people were excited about his products, he figured out how to make his business scalable. This was followed by establishing a team and getting his product overseas in 2018 since demand was already there.
“If you are offering ostrich, venison, warthog, and crocodile to an American pet food distributor, that is extremely exotic for them.
“There was a lot more interest from the US, the UK, and Germany for these products. I approached the bank to build a factory,” he said. kaya 959
Evert Swanepoel, Chairperson of the Copper Development Association Africa talks about The South African government has imposed a six-month ban on the export of copper and copper-alloy scrap, as well as most ferrous scrap as part of the first phase of a three-phase intervention designed to combat the rampant theft of metals used in public infrastructure.
The economic damage of ongoing theft and vandalism has been estimated at R47-billion and has amplified both loadshedding and the disruption of freight and passenger rail services.
Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Ebrahim Patel reports that the temporary prohibition of exports is effective from the publication of a Government Gazette on November 30 but says transitional arrangements have been included to allow for exports approved ahead of the ban.
The temporary prohibition was approved by Cabinet earlier in the month and follows a comment period on a draft policy outlining possible restrictions on the export of ferrous and non-ferrous scrap published on August 5. kaya 959
Adam Duxbury, Chief of Staff for Yoco talks about Yoco recently celebrated R1.3 billion in financing disbursed to over 12 000 customers to pay staff salaries, ease cash flow, buy stock, upskill themselves and staff, and expand their businesses.
With the nationwide issue of load shedding, merchants can apply for Yoco Capital for the advancement of their businesses such as investing in a generator to avoid disruptions during these tough times.
Known for its tools and services that enable small businesses to accept card payments, Yoco continues to break down barriers via its alternative to traditional business financing, Yoco Capital.
Financing for small businesses reimagined
A fast, flexible cash advance offered to qualifying Yoco merchants, Yoco Capital is structured in a way that makes securing business funding accessible and affordable.
Though the SME market – which comprises millions of small- and medium-size businesses across the country – forms a crucial part of the South African economy at large, this sector is still fraught with barriers that impede success and growth. Difficulty accessing funding, poor infrastructure, and a lack of training are some challenges small businesses face.
These, added to the effects of Covid lockdowns, soaring inflation rates, and fuel costs, means that access to business funding is needed more than ever. However, strict terms and conditions and the red tape associated with traditional business financing mean that obtaining much-needed capital is untenable for many small and medium businesses.
“Yoco Capital is a vital alternative to traditional business funding – something that is typically out of reach for many of our merchants. By democratising small business financing, we empower small business owners and further their chances of not only succeeding but thriving. kaya 959
Risenga Maluleke - Stats SA statistician-general talks about Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) released the results of the Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) on Tuesday for the third quarter of 2022 with a strong and positive outlook.
Between the second and third quarter of 2022, 204 000 jobs were gained. The total number of people employed in South Africa was 15.8 million in the third quarter of 2022.
The number of unemployed people decreased by 269 000 to 7.7 million.
The number of discouraged work-seekers also decreased by 54 000 to 3.5 million when compared to the previous quarter.
The number of people who were not economically active for reasons other than discouragement increased by 264 000 between the two quarters resulting in a net increase of 210 000 in the not economically active population.
Unemployement rate decreases by 1%
The QLFS results from Stats SA showed the official unemployment rate decreasing by 1.0 percentage point from 33.9% in the second quarter of 2022 to 32.9% in the third quarter.
The unemployment rate according to the expanded definition of unemployment also decreased by 1.0 percentage point to 43.1% in the third quarter.
The manufacturing (123 000), trade (82 000), construction (46 000) and transport (33 000) industries recorded the largest job gains, while job losses were recorded in finance (80 000), private households (36 000) as well as mining and agriculture (1 000) each.
Sectors that recorded job increases were the formal and informal with 235 000 and 6 000 respectively. kaya 959
Colleen Larsen, CEO of Business Engage talks about Women’s participation on boards of South Africa’s listed companies has increased over the last five years, even steadily, with females now making up one third of non-executive directors.
However women remain largely underrepresented at executive level, with men still making up over 65% to 97% of various senior executive roles, according to Business Engage’s Status of Gender on JSE-Listed Boards 2022 report.
The report was sponsored by Nedbank, Kearney Middle East and Africa, the Institute of Directors South Africa, and the Development Bank of Southern Africa.
It tracked the availability of opportunities for women at the highest level of decision-making, analysing 159 companies – 50% of the companies listed on the JSE – between 2017 and 2021. It excluded companies that have been delisted since 2017 when it began the study, newly listed firms, and those whose profiles have changed considerably.
Its review found that five years after it was made a requirement for listed firms to adopt gender policies at board level, JSE-listed companies had 34% of women in non-executive directorship roles in 2021, compared with 23% in 2017.
Colleen Larsen, CEO of Business Engage, said there has been substantial progress in seating women on boards kaya 959
George Fitzroy, managing director of security services at Servest talks about the recent release of the quarter two crime statistics 2022/2023, an 18.5% increase has been noted in crimes under sub category aggravated robbery, which saw an rise in the majority of robbery at residential and non-residential premises cases reported to the police.
The holiday season is peak time for family vacations and leisure, and for businesses, it a time to expand sales. Unfortunately, it is also often peak season for criminals. One of the biggest challenges South Africa faces is an increase in armed robberies over the holiday season as consumers and homeowners tend to indulge. Securing your property is most crucial to avoid falling victim to minor and major crimes. Furthermore, these rising crime rates urge companies to usher in a new era of home and facility security that works to minimize the impact of crime across the board.
We would like to propose an interview on your show with George Fitzroy, managing director of security services at facilities management company - Servest to discuss the impact of security solutions that enhance the value and safety of residential and non-residential premises. kaya 959
Earl van Zyl - head of Retail Product Development at Allan Gray talks about Should you start saving for retirement as soon as you start working? Or should you invest in yourself first and focus on retirement planning once your earning potential improves? On the one hand, personal finance experts argue that investors should take advantage of the power of compound interest early on in their careers. On the other hand, economists believe in saving less when you’re young and growing your contributions as your earning potential improves.
These conflicting views leave many investors and retirement savers confused, uncertain who is right and what the best approach is to building long-term wealth. According to Earl Van Zyl, head of Retail Product Development at Allan Gray, we should listen to both camps – without losing our common sense, of course. He joins Kaya Bizz to discuss how we can make sense of the multiple views that come our way. kaya 959
Laurence Rapp, CEO of Vukile Property Fund talks about Vukile Property Fund (JSE: VKE), the specialist retail REIT invested in South Africa and Spain, has reported funds from operations (FFO) of 80.8 cents per share and declared an interim dividend of 47.32 cents per share for the six months ended 30 September 2022. This strong performance places Vukile comfortably on track to deliver its guided full-year FFO and dividend per share growth of 5% to 7%.
Laurence Rapp, CEO of Vukile Property Fund, comments, “We are pleased with the excellent operational performance achieved in both the South African and Spanish markets. Our strong results show that we have sailed safely through the recent turbulent times and metrics are exceeding pre-COVID levels. The South African reversionary rental cycle has turned positive, which together with ongoing positive reversions in Spain, signals the increasing income generated from our assets.”
Vukile holds a defensive portfolio of property assets to the value of R35bn, of which 44% are in South Africa and 56% in Spain (held through its 89.6% held Madrid-listed subsidiary Castellana Properties Socimi), offering diversified income streams across different macro-economic drivers. Both businesses are underpinned by blue-chip retail tenants reporting good performance and upward-trending trading. As a specialist retail property owner, Vukile is uniquely positioned to optimise value from its assets and grew its net asset value (NAV) by 6.6% in the period.
The SA portfolio delivered another set of strong results, with net operating income increasing by 4% and property values increasing by 3%. Vacancies further reduced to 2.3%, and retail rental reversions rallied to +1.6% from -2.4%, with 79% of all leases reverting positively or equal to previous levels. Turnovers have surpassed pre-Covid benchmarks, with shopper numbers 11% ahead of the previous comparable period. Like-for-like trading density has increased by 7.0% with notable growth on all key categories across the portfolio. kaya 959
Kennedy Bungane - African Bank CEO Talks about Banking group African Bank has published its full-year results for the 12 months ending September 2022, reporting a jump in profitability as it continues to expand its transactional base and eyes a big move into the business banking space.
The African Bank Group reported a net profit after tax of R736 million for the year ended 30 September 2022 (FY21: R534 million profit). The Group’s return on equity was a resultant positive 6.4% (FY21: positive 4.9%).
According to African Bank, a number of key factors have contributed to the group’s strong position, including loan disbursements exceeding pre-Covid levels, stable credit impairments, and the effective containment of operating costs.
However, one of the most encouraging aspects of the business is the growth in its transactional MyWORLD and credit card accounts and transactions.
The group recorded a total of 1,253,000 MyWORLD accounts have been opened to date, up 69% from 741,000 accounts in 2021. Of these accounts, 712,000 are funded accounts, a growth of 79%, year-on-year.
“As a result, there has also been a marked increase in MyWORLD transactions, with 35 million recorded in the current reporting period for a transactional value of R45 billion, up from R25 billion,” it said. kaya 959
Eunice Sibiya -Independent Financial Educator.
Freelancing is becoming a viable career for many Americans, but there’s a sacrifice when it comes to self-employment and insurance for freelancers: there are typically no benefits.
When you freelance, you work for yourself, which has some advantages, but it typically means that you are providing your own benefits as well. Freelancers are usually on the hook not only for life insurance coverage, but also for healthcare, disability, and legal protection for their own business.
Whether you’re considering a freelance career or are already knee-deep in self-employment (go you!), here’s what you need to know about life insurance coverage. kaya 959
Kamen Govender - Management Consulting professional with 20-years of experience.
Considering that November is entrepreneurs month, 25 years ago, Isaac Shongwe and Derek Thomas started Letsema Consulting, a consulting business that sought to help South African business and the public sector compete on a global scale. Consulting the on state capture commission, the recent SAA deal and a range of private sector innovations, Letsema has seen organisations grow and thrive. kaya 959
Ramasela Ganda - Zeda CEO.
Barloworld Ltd.’s car-rental business, which will be carved out and listed in Johannesburg next month, will have a valuation of about 4.5 billion rand ($260 million), the unit’s chief executive officer said.
Barloworld has hired Goldman Sachs Group Inc. to advise the diversified South African industrial group on the spinoff and listing of Zeda Ltd., set for Dec. 13, according to stock exchange filings Monday.
The business houses the Avis and Budget rental brands, with Barloworld shareholders receiving one Zeda share for each Barloworld share they own.
Zeda CEO Ramasela Ganda, who gave the estimated valuation in a separate interview, said the company aimed to tap the growing needs of online retailers such as Naspers Ltd.’s Takealot.
The potential arrival of players like Amazon.com Inc. would give this business further impetus, she said.
“People and companies don’t need to own their own cars or manage their own fleets anymore,” Ganda said in Johannesburg.
“This is where we see the market shift and further growth, with companies like Amazon coming, and Takealot already here, they need fleets to transport and deliver their goods — that is where we fit in.”
The spinoff is a rare boost for the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, which has been struggling to attract listings in recent years.
Zeda would be one of two debuts before the year is out, with Brait SE, an investment group, planning an initial public offering of its consumer-goods division Premier Group. kaya 959
Ashley Saffy, Head of Business Development at FNB Card.
Banking group FNB says that its customers spent a record R3 billion on Black Friday 2022 – with most shoppers heading out to physical stores to grab deals.
The bank said that this is the highest Black Friday spending it has tracked over the past four years.
Over R2.4 billion was spent in-store, while R670 million was for online shopping, the bank said. The value of online (card-not-present) spend increased by 31% compared to the same period last year, while in-store spend increased by 18%.
It also noted a swell in virtual cards being used in shopping, accounting for over R137 million in purchases compared to just R36 million during 2021 Black Friday.
Contactless payments increased by 36% compared to last year’s Black Friday. kaya 959
Dr Hendrik Botha, Head of Institution at Boston City Campus.
Seismic shifts in the ubiquitous digitised workplace are seeing reverberations across sectors, translating into new jobs being created daily while others become obsolete. In this ever changing environment it becomes vital to strategically choose a career with sufficient scope for sustainable future employability.
“Despite jobs being replaced and the threat of skills becoming irrelevant, this is also a time of great potential opportunity, where upgrading skills to remain cutting edge and focussing on professions which will remain crucial to societies can facilitate sustainable employability, “ says Dr Janet Viljoen, career specialist and Academic Planning and Development Practitioner Boston City Campus at Boston City Campus.
With the era of pervasive digitalisation, work automation and artificial intelligence rapidly changing the employment landscape, what does the future hold? And how can one choose a career with sustainable employment prospects? kaya 959
Dr Marlena Kruger, digital wellness coach and founder of the Technolife Wise Foundation.
The Technolife Wise Foundation recently launched the “Active Digital Wellness” initiative in collaboration with the Roosevelt High School in Johannesburg.
The goal of the programme is to encourage parents to say yes to wait till Grade 8 or the age of 14 before giving children access to the internet and social media via a smartphone.
Says Dr Marlena Kruger, digital wellness coach and founder of the Technolife Wise Foundation, “Roosevelt High School has had a no cell phone policy during school hours since 2016 and the outcomes have been an eye-opener: They have seen a decrease in, amongst others, cyber bullying, and an increase in academic performance and children’s social development. It tells me that the research is true: Our children’s development, growth, and happiness are directly related to the time they spend in front of screens.
“Yet, many parents are still not aware of the neuroscientific and negative impact on their children’s health and well-being when they spend too much time in front of screens, especially when it is on a smartphone linked to the internet and social media,” says Dr Kruger.
“When you take this pledge, your promise not to expose your children to screens and social media before the age of 14. You will join like-minded parents and support one another to attain healthy habits, as well as be supported to stick to your guns,” Dr Kruger concludes.
Parents, role models, professionals, and caregivers are invited to take the pledge at www.technolifewise.org kaya 959
Jacob Mmamabolo - MEC for Department of Finance.
MEC Jacob Mamabolo adds R2.4 billion to fund Gauteng’s priorities
Finance MEC Jacob Mamabolo today increased Gauteng’s budget for this financial year by R2.4 billion, saying the money will be used to improve the lives of people in townships, informal settlements and hostels, fighting crime and supporting economic growth initiatives.
The MEC was presenting the 2022 Medium Term Budget Policy Statement and the Adjustments Budget to the Gauteng Provincial Legislature today.
He said the total annual budget of the provincial government increased from R152.9 billion presented in March this year to R155.3 billion.
“The Adjustments Budget is about making permissible amendments, which includes unforeseeable and unavoidable expenditure in the budget of the current financial year. Put differently, the budget adjustment gives us an opportunity to already be planting the seed for the medium- and long-term funding of the Five Elevated Priorities,” MEC Mamabolo said.
To intensify the fight against crime, corruption, vandalism and lawlessness, MEC Mamabolo allocated a total of R173 million to Department of Community Safety. These funds will be used to recruit and train peace wardens, tools of trade, procurement of 10 drones, 50 vehicles and 500 000 panic buttons kaya 959
Pascalle Albrecht - National Head of Commercial Card Issuing and Card Acquiring Strategy
About the spokesperson:
I have been with Nedbank for 6 years, and have been in the Commercial Card business since I joined in various different roles. However, my current role covers both the Commercial card and Card acquiring strategy businesses – with a key focus on driving innovation and business growth in these two arenas. The benefit of my position now is that I am accountable for bringing the card issuing and acquiring businesses together. Bringing cardholders to merchants in a succinct and holistic way and ensuring we drive the correct technological development in both businesses to help our clients remain relevant and competitive in their relevant industries. kaya 959
Muitheri Wahome is the founder of the Asset Management Research Institute.
Muitheri Wahome is the founder of the Asset Management Research Institute. She is a financial services professional with over 23 years of experience and a deep interest in financial inclusion and the history and lore of the asset management industry in South Africa.
After starting out as an insurance sector analyst at Barnard Jacobs Mellet, Muitheri joined Alexander Forbes Asset Consultants, where she held several consulting and investment positions until she was appointed head of the division. Wahome later joined Alexander Forbes Investments (previously Investment Solutions) as head of technical solutions, going on to serve as chief client officer of the firm. Early in her career, she developed and launched the first institutional specialist equity survey in South Africa.
Wahome has been recognised as a top investment consultant and analyst by the Association of Black Securities and Investment Professionals, the Financial Mail, and Reuters. She has been a member of the Financial Services Board Collective Investment Schemes Control Act (CISCA) advisory board and an independent expert witness to the PIC Commission of Inquiry. kaya 959
Brett Lindsay, Digital Philosopher & MD at BIGBrave Strategic Design Firm
As Black Friday approaches, there seems to be this low-cost mentality in society. We are all cognisant of the fact that times have certainly been tough over the past two years, and the uncertainty it has caused this year has created an overly cautious approach to spending for a lot of businesses and consumers.
If so, many people are chasing the lowest prices, this will start to impact the quality and value of products and services. This in turn will have negative impacts on consumer/client expectations and start to create a perceived value of businesses and markets that constantly diminishes over time. If your money is so scarce, then surely, you'd want to get the best value return for it?
Chasing the lowest price is a race to the bottom and it dilutes value. Supporting businesses that provide value for you, your clients and themselves causes the market to grow and for our work to be sought after. It’s important to remember that, at the end of the day, ‘Goedkoop is Duurkoop’ as the old South African adage goes. kaya 959
Paul Behrmann, CEO of Payflex
Black Friday survey: online spend likely to triple over last year
Tuesday, 22 November 2022: Just over 90% of SA buy now pay later (BNPL) customers plan to spend more online this festive season than last year, while 78% plan to shop on Black Friday. This is according to a survey of more than 1,600 customers conducted this month by Payflex, South Africa’s first and largest BNPL provider.
“Our customer base has more than doubled since 2021 to over 450,000 customers so we are expecting Black Friday Payflex spend to more than double this year,” says Paul Behrmann, Payflex founder and CEO. “South Africans are becoming more comfortable with using BNPL as a budget tool, shunning expensive credit to pay for purchases in interest-free instalments instead.” Online sales continue to grow strongly with 92% of customers planning to shop only or mostly online on Black Friday. kaya 959
Professor Bonke Dumisa - Independent economic analyst
Interest rates are now at their highest level since 2016 after the SA Reserve Bank hiked rates by 75 basis points, for the third meeting in a row.
Three members of the monetary policy committee voted in favour of the 75 basis point hike, while two wanted a 50 basis point increase.
The move brings the repo rate to 7%, and the prime rate to 10.5%.
On a new home loan of R2 million at the prime rate, the latest increase hikes the monthly instalment by around R1 000. Since November last year, monthly payments on a R2 million home loan are almost R4 500 more expensive due to a raft of rate hikes.
The latest rate hike was in line with economists' expectations.
On Thursday, Governor of the SA Reserve Bank, Lesetja Kganyago, warned of high inflation and weak economic growth. kaya 959
Wendy Bedforth – Brand Director Castle Lager talks to us about Castle Lager #KeepItWithin Media Launch with South African Entrepreneurs:
-Thabelo Raphala I MD OF MY DOUGH ACADEMY
-Lekau Sehoana I Founder of drip SA
-Mfundo Mbeki – Co- founder of Rands CPT
-Aubrey Koma Aubtec Kitchen & Tinny Nkuna Lindiwe Sanitary Pads – Business owners from first batch of the limited-edition cans. kaya 959
Tumi Masekela – founder of Soweto Swim School talks about a new swimming school in Orlando east.
Swim School Soweto, a registered school based in Orlando East was founded by Tumi and has been in operation since November 7, 2020.
Parents with children as young as 2 years old, adults and senior citizens can expect to be taught by highly qualified and experienced black swimming coaches in a heated indoor 10x5m pool.
Tumi’s dream to launch the Soweto Swim school was prompted by the swim school that she had enrolled her children in back when she lived in the northern suburbs of Johannesburg. When she returned to Soweto and saw how many children swam in dirty dams, she decided to act. She constructed a pool in her backyard that she has now dedicated for swimming lessons.
Lessons are 45 minutes each and start at R300 per month for children and R450 for adults.
Tumi and her team are thrilled to host you and your families in their safe, Covid-19 free school.
Contact the Soweto Swim School through the following details
Call: 082 895 3047
Address: 4350, Ballanden Street, Orlando East, Soweto
Be sure to bring your costume, swimming cap and towel kaya 959
The THRIVE app founder and CEO, Khetha Mazibuko joins Gugulethu Mfuphi to unpack the following:
-What are the big trends in the main market when it comes to promotion?
-Who is leading really promoting and driving their brand?
-What practical things can brands in the township do to increase awareness and engagement?
About Thrive:
The thrive app enables store owners to view supplier invoices and make supplier payments for stock delivery anytime, from anywhere, from their phones! The thrive app is available to download from the Google Play store kaya 959
Khanyisa Phika – Economist at Alexander Forbes talks about South Africa’s inflation increases & MPC Preview.
South Africa’s inflation quickened for the first time in three months on the eve of a widely expected interest-rate hike.
The headline consumer-price index rose 7.6% from a year earlier, compared with 7.5% in September, Pretoria-based Statistics South Africa said Wednesday in a statement on its website. The median of 15 estimates in a Bloomberg survey of economists was 7.4%.
The South African Reserve Bank officially targets price growth in a band of 3% to 6% though its monetary policy committee prefers to anchor expectations close to the midpoint of that range.
Stubbornly high inflation that’s remained above the target ceiling for six straight months will probably see the MPC raise the benchmark in its final meeting of the year Thursday.
Economists and traders are split on the quantum. The median of 20 economists’ estimates in a Bloomberg survey is for a hike of three-quarters of a percentage point, with projections for an increase ranging from 50 to 100 basis points. kaya 959
immy Moyaha. Financial Consultant and Independent market analyst Talks about how Telkom takes a hit as its fixed-line business drags.
Telecommunications group Telkom has published its interim results for the six months ending 30 September 2022, showing a big hit to headline earnings over the period.
The group reported gross operating revenue down 0.7% to R21.15 billion for the period, with earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) down 17.3% at R4.9 billion.
Basic earnings were 52.5% lower at 131.6 cents per share (1H21: 276.8 cps), with headline earnings down 51.9% at 137.2 cents per share (1H21: 285.5 cps).
No dividend was declared, in line with the group’s three-year suspension strategy. kaya 959
Chantal Maritz, PwC Africa Payments Transformation Leader talks Why Africa struggles to move beyond cash.
The survey is a biannual study of consumers’ payment and open banking preferences. For the first time since its inception in 2018, PwC Africa participated in the study. Respondents were interviewed across three key African economies, namely South Africa (representing the South market), Kenya (representing the East market) and Nigeria (representing the West market). These countries were chosen as they represent the largest economies across each market area.
Of the 1,357 respondents who participated in the survey between September and October 2022, a third said cash was their preferred payment method. In South Africa, the heaviest cash users were youth aged 18 to 25. Half (50%) of respondents said they pay with cash because there is no alternative payment option available, or because merchants ask for it.
Chantal Maritz, PwC Africa Payments Transformation Leader, says: “This highlights the lack of varied digital payment acceptance mediums and infrastructure across all three African countries. However, another key driver of cash prevalence across Africa is a lack of financial education. Consumers with low financial literacy often overlook indirect costs of cash, such as the cost of their transportation to cash access points, security risks, and loss of interest. This could result in respondents not finding digital payment alternatives intuitive, making them revert to what they know.”
Debit cards and the rise of smartphone penetration
Across the three regions, debit cards were the second most utilised payment method, with high use in South Africa (32%) and Nigeria (41%). In South Africa, the high use may be attributed to the country’s large banked population of ~84%, Maritz says. In Nigeria, the banked population increased to 45.3% in 2021, but the high adoption of debit cards is likely due to its large number of point of sale (POS) devices. These POS agents are enabled by a variety of service providers, including banks, fintechs, and telcos. kaya 959
Kagiso Lebethe - Senior Employee Relations Specialist talks When can employers legally deduct from or withhold an employee’s pension payout?
If an employee causes an employer damage through dishonesty, theft, fraud or misconduct, the South African Pension Funds Act, 1956 provides that the employer may, in certain circumstances, recover losses from the benefits payable to that employee when the employee ceases to be a member of the fund or retires.
However, this will only apply if the employee has admitted liability in writing to the employer or if a judgment has been given against the employee in any court.
An employer could, however, encounter problems if the employee has not admitted guilt and demands payment of their benefit in circumstances where the employer has yet to obtain a judgment against the employee. In this situation, the courts have held that, in appropriate circumstances, the trustees of the fund may withhold the payment of the benefit, or a part thereof, pending the employer obtaining a court order.
In the past, the Pension Funds Adjudicator has been hesitant to sanction the withholding of retirement benefits from employees in the absence of a court order being obtained by the employer against the employee, unless extremely compelling reasons to do so existed. kaya 959
Careen McKinnon, representative for Buyers Trust talks The Upside of Interest Rate Increases: Higher Returns on Your Home Loan Deposit.
As a potential homebuyer, seeing the ‘upside’ of interest rate increases may seem like an impossible prospect, but the same rate hike that increases the money you owe also increases the money in your savings account.
“This same rule applies to home loan deposits invested in an interest-bearing account,” says Jackie Smith, Head of Buyers Trust (a subsidiary of ooba Group) - a safe and secure bank-hosted deposit solution for homebuyers.
While deposits on home loans remained low priority for many during the COVID-19 pandemic, the latest statistics from ooba Group’s Q3 ’22 oobarometer indicate that an increasing number of South Africans are recognising that they can use deposits and earned interest to their advantage, with the year-on-year growth of the average deposit size (as a percentage of the purchase price) up a whopping 18.2%. kaya 959
Faeeza Marshman - Winner of the top award at the 2022 Metropolitan Lesedi Awards - the ‘Spirit of Volunteerism’ award. Administration Manager, Momentum Corporate.
Employee volunteering is one of Momentum Metropolitan’s Corporate Social Investment’s pillars of focus, with a dynamic staff volunteerism programme (SVP) that provides opportunities and resources for employees to support causes close to their hearts. The Lesedi Awards is an annual event held to acknowledge and honour the efforts and impact made by those volunteers. kaya 959
Seelan Gobalsamy – Omnia CEO talks Omnia reports.
Omnia Holdings Limited (“Omnia” or “the Group”), a JSE-listed diversified chemicals Group, today published its interim results for the six months ended 30 September 2022. This exceptional financial performance was achieved despite ongoing international geopolitical conflict and supply chain challenges, which was exacerbated by deteriorating utility infrastructure, socio political instability, and disruptions to electricity supply in South Africa.
Omnia’s CEO, Seelan Gobalsamy, commented: “Against a complex and challenging macroeconomic backdrop, our teams have delivered an exceptional performance, leveraging the underlying strength of our business model to execute our strategy. Our supply chain optimisation programme and integrated manufacturing capabilities supported the Group’s competitive position, agility, and responsiveness in a dynamic market environment to deliver to our Agriculture, Mining and Manufacturing customers. This unlocked efficiencies which enhanced margins and profitability.”
The successful implementation of the Group’s operating model resulted in improved performance and ensured the security of supply of ammonium nitrate, despite ammonia supply constraints, to enable the Group to meet customer demand across all business segments. Additional key performance drivers include an improvement in the volume-margin mix, greater sales of specialty and value adding chemicals, in an elevated commodity price environment.
Group revenue from continuing operations (excluding Zimbabwe) increased 19% to R11.6 billion. Operating profit from continuing operations (excluding Zimbabwe) rose by 47% to R1.1 billion with the operating margin from continuing operations (excluding Zimbabwe) growing from 7.5% to 9.2%. EBITDA from continuing operations (excluding Zimbabwe and impairments) increased by 30% to R1.4 billion and adjusted headline earnings per share (HEPS) from continuing operations was 32% higher at 401 cents.
Working capital increased to R5.2 billion, driven by high commodity prices and increased investments in inventory, largely in the agriculture segment due to a more normalised sales cycle. Sales volumes have increased in the second quarter and working capital is expected to unwind for the full year. After investing R2.1 billion in working capital, the Group maintained a positive net cash balance of R140 million excluding lease liabilities. This resulted in Omnia being able to meet supply to its customers in a tough and challenging environment.
“Our continued focus on cost discipline, stringent working capital management, and prudent capital allocation saw us maintain a strong balance sheet, while investing for the future. In line with our commitment to lower the environmental impact of our operations, we invested in a reverse osmosis water treatment plant and a solar energy plant at our Sasolburg operations, both of which were recently commissioned,” added Gobalsamy. kaya 959
Syd Vianello – Retail Analyst talks Pepkor delivers 16% profit jump despite revenue hit from KZN floods, unrest
Pepkor, which owns brands such as PEP and Ackermans, managed to deliver a double-digit earnings increase even as the effects of the July 2021 unrest and KwaZulu-Natal flooding hit the group's revenue growth.
The JSE-listed retailer reported on Tuesday that its revenue grew 5.3% in the year to end September, saying that growth had been negatively affected by the flooding of PEP's distribution centre in KwaZulu-Natal in April, as well as its recovery from the unrest in July last year.
At the same time, product mix changes in its Flash business, which offers informal traders affordable payment systems to do business, also impacted revenue growth. It said that if Flash and the lost sales due to the floods were excluded, revenue growth would have been 8.1%.
Normalised headline earnings per share, excluding once-off items, rose 15.7% to 150.7c per share with Pepkor, delivering a dividend of 55.2c, representing a 24.9% increase on the previous year.
Pepkor's share price was down over 2% in early trade on Tuesday. Click here for details on Pepkor's shares and other info.
The company said the July 2021 unrest resulted in looting and damage of 549 of the group's stores. While 386 of these stores were reopened by September last year, 104 stores could only be reopened during the current financial year "due to factors outside the group's control, including infrastructure rebuild and delays in the reopening of shopping complexes". A further 37 stores will be reopened in the next financial year.
Pepkor said the flood-damaged PEP distribution centre in KwaZulu-Natal represented 40% of the group's total distribution capacity.
"This negatively impacted in-store product availability and resulted in estimated lost sales of R460 million." kaya 959
Maphefo Sipula, who is the Senior Researcher from eTTP [Entrepreneurship To The Point] talks Accelerating Women-Owned Business in Male-Dominated Sectors.
As the country commemorates the 15th annual Global Entrepreneurship Week , Entrepreneurship to the Point (Property Point) launched its first research study titled, “Accelerating Women-Owned Business in Male-Dominated Sectors: A South African Case Study”
Globally, there is a great move for development and support of Small business and Entrepreneurship but this need to be done in an inclusive way which highlights Women-owned businesses – “this is not a theme and topic” isolated to a particular month but one which is an imperative to the developmental agenda, There is a growing body of evidence around the world that shows that gender diversity is linked to innovation in business and economic growth of a country as a whole.
Therefore, we can’t commemorate Global Entrepreneurship week without reflecting on reality that Women-owned businesses continue to operate under challenging conditions, such as discrimination, economic exclusion exploitation, and stereotypes. There is a huge gender gap in terms of policies and interventions that would help women entrepreneurs. kaya 959
Gareth Williams- Head of Pre-sales EMEA, FICO talks Exaggerated Insurance Claims
Many financial institutions consider their fraud teams to be a necessary overhead to cut fraud losses, but the latest consumer survey from global analytics leader FICO shows that a successful fraud protection function can drive sales and increase revenue. The survey also reveals consumer attitudes and preferences regarding fraud checks – and indicates that many will commit fraud themselves to get a loan or file an insurance claim. kaya 959
Ziphozonke Majola - TV Producer, Director & Founder of Sothar Pictures talks about What does it take to create a long-lasting career in TV
Breaking into the Film and Television Industries
So you want to be an actor. Or maybe a producer. What about an editor? Here's what you need to know.
So you want to be in show business. Maybe you’ve been working in a field that isn’t exciting enough or doesn’t use enough of your creativity. Or you’re just starting out and know that a regular desk job isn’t for you. Plus, you go to the movies and watch TV shows. How hard can it be to make one of those?
The bad news is that breaking into the film and television industries can be daunting and frustrating. The good news is that with hard work, a clear vision of your goals and a few tips on how to start, it’s possible to get a foothold in an extremely creative and fulfilling career. It happens every day to people who are willing to put in the time. Since it’s not all glamour and high pay, the most important qualification is a love of the work. kaya 959
Buntu Bam, Financial Consultant at Alexforbes talks about What To Consider When Choosing The Right Financial Planner
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING THE RIGHT FINANCIAL PLANNER
By Buntu Bam, Financial Consultant at Alexforbes
As we journey through life – from our first jobs to marriage and children, retirement and planning your estate – it is essential to have a certified financial planner. They can guide us through every stage in life, helping us to save enough and leave a legacy for our loved ones.
You need to consider a number of factors when looking for a trusted person to partner with. These pointers will help you find someone you can relate to, and ask to become your adviser. kaya 959
Dominic Sewela - Barloworld CEO talks Barloworld results.
Heavy-duty equipment multinational Barloworld says it will unbundle and separately list Zeda, the group’s integrated vehicle mobility solutions provider.
Zeda trades under the Avis and Budget brands in South Africa, as well as ten other sub-Saharan African countries.
The unbundling will be implemented by way of listing 189-million ordinary Zeda shares on the main board of the JSE, effective December 13, as well as a pro rata distribution in specie of such JSE-listed Zeda distribution shares for no consideration to holders of Barloworld ordinary shares entitled to receive this distribution on December 19.
Moreover, the unbundling will be implemented on the basis that Barloworld ordinary shareholders recorded on the Barloworld share register at 17:00 on December 15 will receive one Zeda distribution share for every one Barloworld ordinary share held.
Barloworld explains the pro rata distribution in specie of the Zeda distribution shares will be paid from sources other than 'contributed tax capital' as contemplated in the Income Tax Act and shall accordingly constitute a 'dividend' for purposes of the Income Tax Act. kaya 959
Roland van Wijnen – PPC CEO talks infrastructure-led uptick in cement demand
Cement producer PPC says it is well positioned to benefit from any uptick in South African cement demand given that it has immediate capacity on standby that will require no additional capital expenditure to reintroduce.
However, CEO Roland van Wijnen stresses that without a significant increase in infrastructure investments, South African demand is anticipated to remain subdued.
“We have two kiln lines – one at Dwaalboom and the other at Slurry – that are literally on standby,” Van Wijnen told Engineering News in an interview.
Should these be reintroduced, at least two-million tons could be brought on within weeks, as the group demonstrated was feasible when there was a rebound in demand following South Africa’s Covid lockdowns kaya 959
South Africa’s economy is likely to have averted a technical recession in the third quarter despite record power outages, key data indicates.
Better-than-expected mining and manufacturing output is set to outweigh relatively soft retail sales data, suggesting Africa’s most industrialised economy returned to growth in the third quarter after contracting 0.7% in the prior three-month period. Mining and manufacturing make up about a fifth of total gross domestic product, while trade, which includes the retail sector, accounts for 13%.
“It’s going to be close but we do escape a technical recession,” said Sanisha Packirisamy, an economist at Momentum Investments, whose GDP tracker implies quarterly growth of 0.1% to 0.4%. “Growth is reasonably soft and load-shedding has been one of the main factors driving that together with increased headwinds that the consumer is facing,” she said using a local term for power outages kaya 959
Financial services provider Standard Bank this week shared the results of the second edition of its Africa Trade Barometer, which showed that there have been improvements in, for example, business perceptions that the Tanzanian and Ugandan governments are doing more to support trade.
Standard Bank Trade and Africa-China head Philip Myburgh notes that the recent resumption of trade barrier reduction talks between the two countries has contributed to this positive shift.
The second edition of the barometer also highlights the strong link between effective governance and business confidence and growth.
Kenya’s recently successfully concluded elections, for example, has driven more positive sentiment across the whole East Africa region. Similarly, the report found that successful elections in Angola and Zambia, and the change of president in Tanzania, has driven more positive business sentiment in these markets.
“The second edition’s results, now enhanced with historical comparison, also reveal more nuanced and often entirely new or unexpected insights, especially at individual country and sector level,” says Myburgh. kaya 959
Schools in South Africa are warning parents that they are at risk of being ‘blacklisted’ for credit if they fail to pay their children’s school fees.
Credit bureau TPN said that fewer than 60% of parents pay their school fees on time in South Africa, with the situation only getting worse after the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021.
Many parents are under the misconception that non-payment of school fees won’t affect their credit record, but TPN said that schools could freely list non-paying parents with credit bureaus in the country, which counts against their credit records.
“Independent and fee-paying public schools are heavily reliant on parents to pay school fees,” it said.
“The reality, however, is that less than 60% of parents pay their school fees on time. This has a significant knock-on effect on a school’s finances, severely impacting their ability to meet their operational costs.”
Waldo Marcus, head of marketing at TPN said that recent assessments at four of Johannesburg’s most prominent public schools found that each of the schools has more than R20 million in outstanding fees to recover, with the highest close to R30 million. kaya 959
Gauteng Department of Economic Development in partnership with Radah Skills and Training Education Training Authority (TETA) will be hosting a graduation for 500 graduates in Pretoria as part of the Township Last Mile Delivery Programme.
Various companies in this space have adopted different business models. Companies like Takealot choose to contract micro-enterprises to deliver on their behalf. This means that young people interested in providing these services should possess a licence, have a registered company, have a scooter or access to one, and have other tools of trade. Other companies may choose to employ young people as employees to deliver on their behalf. This means that the young people have to be in possession of a valid licence and meet other requirements for employment (valid SA ID, language proficiency, etc). kaya 959
Group revenue climbed to R28.2bn, with operating profit increasing to R3.1bn, reflecting strong operational performance in both acute and non-acute businesses.
Group chief executive, Peter Wharton-Hood, says: “We demonstrated significant progress this year in executing on our long-term strategy, and we are well-positioned for sustainable growth in 2023 and beyond. The group maintains its momentum, and we continue to demonstrate our resilience with robust cash generation and a strong balance sheet.”
The southern African business saw better activity levels, with a strong recovery in a broad range of surgical and medical activities, resulting in a 9.1 % increase in paid patient days (PPDs), and increased occupancy of 64.5% in the second half of the year. Excellent progress has also been made in advancing strategic initiatives to grow non-acute areas of the business for the year under review.
Southern Africa chief executive, Adam Pyle says: “We are pleased to have seen excellent volume growth, post the pandemic, driven by the normalisation of our case mix. Complementary services continued to reflect good growth in revenue and normalised earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) across the different business lines”. kaya 959
Having a social impact on people and improving their lives is important for the accountant who initially wanted to be a medical doctor but changed his mind in the second year and enrolled for accounting, and has never looked back.
Purpose fuels Adam’s career coupled with a passion for making a difference in people’s lives which is why he joined RMA.
Adam is available to expand on the company’s double digit growth which he projects will continue for the next 8 years and also talk about his role in the company’s strategy premised on building a business of significance as well as the trajectory of his career.
He is also passionate about financial inclusion which through RMA Life’s offering of affordable solutions, via technology platforms, to small medium enterprises (SMES) enables them to provide cover for their employees. RMA Life through its Supplier Development programme supports black owned brokerages and has recently changed the funding and operating models for brokers to make the partnership more profitable. kaya 959
When many of us think health and wellness, we think exercise, nutrient-rich foods, regular checkups and (hopefully) getting enough sleep. We rarely think money.
But “financial wellness is a component of overall wellness,” according to clinical psychologist Joe Lowrance, PsyD. He works with clients to identify problematic behaviors around money and create solutions for a healthier relationship.
“Financial health is having a conscious and purposeful relationship with money that is satisfying and isn’t overly stressful,” said Brad Klontz, PsyD, a financial psychologist and director of research at H&R Block Dollars & Sense. kaya 959
Thrive App CEO Khetha Mazibuko talks about how the THRIVE App can help with Stock Management. kaya 959
The Centre for Applied Legal Studies (CALS), Khulisa Social Solutions, the Incarceration Nations Network (INN), and Alex-based NGO Eagles of Hope, have joined forces to co-ordinate and run two legal clinics in Alexandra township next week. The workshops aim to provide previously incarcerated people and/or anyone affected by a criminal record with information, legal advice and assistance on how to expunge their criminal records.
What is a criminal record expungement?
A criminal record is a list of a person’s previous criminal convictions. The law provides for a way a person’s criminal record may be cleared or “expunged”. This means that the person’s name and the crime they were convicted of will be removed from the South African Police Services’ criminal record system as if it did not happen. The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa states that a criminal record can be expunged after a period of 10 years, provided that there have been no other convictions in this time.
CALS, Khulisa, INN, and Eagles of Hope have developed a workshop to explain the expungement process. The expungement of a criminal record should be an attainable reward for good behaviour. It may lead to enhanced prospects for employment. kaya 959
A first-ever two-month Alexandra Youth Entrepreneurial Summit has pumped new vigour into the sleeping entrepreneurial spirit of the youth in the township.
This follows a partnership between Khulisa Social Solutions, the Greater Alexandra Chamber of Commerce (Galxcoc), Qalisa Hub, 243 Pro-network, Ubuntu Business, and TuksNovation which is designed to awaken the sleeping potential of the youth through a summit that was held in September to October at the Greater Alexandra Digital Incubation Hub.
The summit sought to empower young people in the township to realise the small business opportunities that exist around them and are designed to provide them with the necessary tools on how to leverage them.
Galxcoc is one of the only five SMME hubs in Gauteng that is fully equipped with digital resources for small businesses. The hub has also been appointed as the implementation partner of the Gauteng Township Economic Development Act by the Gauteng Department of Economic Development. kaya 959
Castle Lager’s next phase of #ItsWithin Campaign championing township businesses. kaya 959
Nando’s South Africa has become a marketing leader, with its bold and unconventional style. For many, this kind of marketing strategy is a breath of fresh air from the generic ways of pushing products. The brand has been brave enough to comment on politics and make fun of life in South Africa.
Another example is the Diversity ad in 2012, which addressed the xenophobia that was prevalent in South Africa. It posed the question: what if everyone went back to ‘their countries’? It then ends by saying that real South Africans love diversity.
Staying current in South Africa means that you need to be able to communicate with and involve everyone. Nando’s does this by using a combination of South African languages, which allows more people to be included on a more personal level. This also makes the adverts humorous — especially when they use vernacular to address specific situations. kaya 959
The value of South African households’ wealth (expressed in current prices) decreased by an estimated R1.528 trillion (R1 528 billion) in the half-year since the first quarter of 2022 (Q1 2022) to R15.5 trillion. An estimated decrease of R253 billion in Q3 2022 followed the decline of R1.275 trillion in Q2 2022.
This decline also means the value of household wealth (in current prices) was R9.3 billion or 0.1% lower compared to a year ago (Q3 2021), meaning the initial gains in the next six months to Q1 2022 were more than erased in the six months to Q3 2022.
For households to become richer, their wealth must at least increase by more than the consumer price inflation (CPI) rate. When expressed in constant prices – to establish whether household wealth increased by more or less than the consumer price inflation (CPI) rate – analysis shows it was actually 6.2% lower than a year ago. Put differently, households were essentially an estimated R977.5 billion poorer compared to Q3 2021 – and at similar levels as in Q1 2015.
The decline in the value of household wealth was caused by a decrease in the value of household assets, specifically financial assets. Several factors contributed to the declining value of household assets over the past six months. The most prominent of these factors are fast and large increases in interest rates all over the world in an attempt to combat high CPI rates, and an expectation of a world economic recession. Consequently, share prices declined and bond yields increased, negatively affecting the value of households’ pension funds and investments.
The value of households’ pension funds and other interests in long-term insurance declined by an estimated R630.3 billion (in current prices) in the six months since Q1 2022, while that of investments (in risky assets such as some unit trusts) decreased by R1.061 trillion. Combined these two asset categories declined by R1.691 trillion. This decline was marginally offset by an increase of R250.1 billion in the value of other assets such as residential buildings, durable goods, and deposits, leading to the value of total assets decreasing by an estimated R1.441 trillion.
In addition, outstanding household liabilities increased by an estimated R86.9 billion in the six months to Q3 2022, with equal increases in outstanding mortgages and other debt kaya 959
JOHANNESBURG - The SA Cabin Crew Association (SACCA) wants the Takatso-SAA deal scrapped.
It says the takeover has been heading for a crash since it took off.
Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan on Tuesday said he can't divulge details of the agreement.
He claims this is due to it being commercially sensitive.
"You might recall that Numsa and SACCA at the beginning of this deal had raised the fact that there is something wrong with this deal," said SACCA president Zazi Nsibanyoni-Mugambi.
"If the deal is straightforward with Takatso it should be transparent. We should be given the information that is required because the bid should be open to the public because we are an SEO, after all." kaya 959
Black Friday in 2022 might provide a fascinating insight into the state of the South African consumer as individuals begin to re-build their personal balance sheets while weighing up a global environment which is facing unprecedented social and economic upheaval.
Over the past 3 years, consumer behaviour has been largely influenced by the COVID-19 lockdowns and the “work-from-home” culture, driving spend on home improvements, online gaming and technology, and the rise of home delivery services.
Now as the world begins to return to pre-COVID habits, we are seeing a strong swing toward leisure and travel services …at least up until the point that conflict between Russia and Ukraine was the match which sparked a surge in inflation. This in turn has driven Central Banks to aggressively tighten interest rates in both Developed and Emerging Markets. Our own economic issues with unstable electricity supply and the havoc it causes for many business owners, over and above the rising fuel spend, adds a further concern regarding the finances of South Africans. kaya 959
Telkom’s leadership position in supporting technology-driven start-ups in the South African ecosystem as well as the impact of Telkom’s Enterprise & Supplier Development Programme. kaya 959
As the season of ‘irresistible” Black Friday deals and festive season specials kicks off, the temptation to overspend lies around just about every corner. When faced with ‘deals that are too good to resist’, practicing self-control and harnessing the willpower to subdue our impulses to spend are key to achieving our long-term savings and investment goals. Mthobisi Mthimkhulu, Private Clients manager at Allan Gray, joins Kaya Bizz to discuss how you can tame your Black Friday and festive season spending. kaya 959
Annual growth in the FNB House Price Index moved marginally lower in October, averaging 3.0% from 3.1% in September. Slower price growth from post-pandemic highs reflects relatively softer demand amid higher living costs and deteriorating affordability. Market volumes continue to soften, albeit modestly and are still above pre-pandemic levels . This is also reflected in the buoyant property transfer duties, which jumped by 21.7% y/y in September (or 25.6% in 3Q22 compared to the same period last year). In line with this, mortgage extension remains relatively robust, with the latest data showing growth of 6.9% y/y in September, much quicker than the post-GFC average of 3.8%. Nevertheless, surveyed data shows signs of a weakening market, with estate agents activity slowing towards the long-term average, and property sales due to financial pressure building up in lower priced segments.
The rental market has continued on a gradual recovery path. Vacancy rates have slowed from pandemic-induced highs of 13%, to 7.8% in 3Q22. However, vacancy rates remain above the pre-pandemic average of 5.3% between 2017 and 2019 (Figure 4). Commensurately, rental inflation increased by 2.8% y/y in 3Q22, up from a trough of 0.6% in 1Q21. The recovery in rental inflation is in line with post-pandemic support factors, such as the speedy improvement in aggregate incomes and household demand, along with improved mobility as more people revert to in-office work. Furthermore, rising borrowing costs likely diverted some homeownership demand to rentals, allowing landlords some headroom to increase rental escalations. Nevertheless, the pace of the recovery is still constrained by weak employment growth, and a rising cost of living. Overall, while demand is improving, there is still excess supply in the market, as reflected by the declining average real rental rate, as well as above-average vacancy rates kaya 959
Department of Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan says Gidon Novick’s resignation from the Takatso Consortium board, as well as his reasons for doing so should not be taken “too seriously” because Novick “was a small and minor partner in the consortium.”
Gordhan – along with some South African Airways (SAA) executives – were briefing the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (Scopa) on the state of the national carrier’s affairs, in Parliament on Tuesday.
Gordhan’s comments come after reports of Novick’s resignation as director on the consortium’s board on Monday, citing a lack of information around the progress of the deal, the consortium’s ability to raise the capital committed and the team’s future role in the business, according to News24. Further reports added that Novick felt the lack of access to information had made his role as director on the board difficult and impractical. kaya 959
The cryptocurrency market has plunged in value today as it reels from the near-collapse of one of the biggest exchanges, FTX, last night.
FTX, which has bailed-out a host of ailing firms in the sector and was regarded as one of the more resilient businesses in the space, announced last night it had struck a deal with its biggest rival Binance amid an extreme liquidity squeeze.
Sam Bankman-Fried, chief of FTX, had been locked in a spat with Binance boss Changpeng Zhao over the weekend after Zhao announced Binance would offload its entire stake of FTX’s token FTT, send the price plummeting and sparking a run on assets at Bankman-Fried’s firm.
Zhao dramatically announced on Twitter last night Binance had struck a deal to buy FTX to stave off collapse.
The rescue marks the latest blow to the sector amid a so-called crypto winter that has seen over a trillion dollars wiped off the value of the sector this year and sparked a string of high-profile collapses.
FTX’s token FTT shed more than 70 per cent of its value today in the wake of the deal, while Bitcoin ended a recent resurgence and tumbled ten per cent to a near-two-year low. The flagship and most valuable cryptocurrency has shed nearly 70 per cent of its value this year. kaya 959
The Momentum Metropolitan Volunteerism Report: new research unpacks the state of volunteerism in South Africa
Volunteerism is much needed beacon of light and positivity in South Africa. After a decline during the COVID-19 pandemic, corporate volunteerism is again thriving in the South African private sector 1,2, with many larger companies now having employee volunteering programmes (EVPs). Given the surge of activity in this space, Momentum Metropolitan recently commissioned a comprehensive research study, the Momentum Metropolitan Volunteerism Report, which delved deeper into the post-pandemic state of volunteerism in South Africa.
Driven by Momentum Metropolitan’s Corporate Social Investment (CSI) arm, the research was conducted among its employees, employees from other major corporations and representatives from various local non-profit organisations (NPOs).
Tshego Bokaba, CSI Manager at Momentum Metropolitan, explains that volunteerism is something the corporate actively and formally champions. “While our CSI mandate is centred around youth empowerment and employment, we want to encourage employees to support those causes closest to their hearts – while at the same time uplifting their communities.” kaya 959
“This means more international competition for South African employers desperate to attract critical skills from abroad,” says Marisa Jacobs, Managing Director of visa and expatriate services firm Xpatweb.
The survey indicates that South Africa exhibits the second strongest hiring intention (38%) among European, Middle Eastern and African (EMEA) countries, after Ireland (42%). However, 78% of local employers reported talent shortages resulting in difficulties filling positions.
The global labour gap also creates greater opportunities for skilled South Africans to emigrate to greener pastures, further eroding the country’s talent base.
There is no doubt that South African employers will have to work harder to acquire the critical skills they need. kaya 959
"The individual investor should act consistently as an investor and not as a speculator." - Ben Graham
Everyday something changes, the stock markets may have been stabled yesterday but because of a slight change everything goes up and down, like a roller coaster. This is why, in order to become (or continue being) a great investor people have to know there is no checklist, people should always continue to grow. If the world changes, then people should always improve their investment skills. The key message of this statement is that there are cases in which due to some unforeseen changes in certain fundamental factors, even great companies may face huge losses. kaya 959
Why It's Easy To Pick The Wrong Career
The simple answer is that you don't know what you don't know. Most of us make career decisions using the information we have in front of us, the problem is we never have ALL the information.
So, the sad reality is that almost all of us will pick the wrong career at some point. Consider this: how many of us are truly equipped with enough life experience, education, self-knowledge, and information about suitable careers in our twenties? Or, even in our thirties and forties?
Ask anyone who has gotten a college degree in one field, only to realize a few years later they don't want to be doing that anymore. It's more common than you may think!
Also, there are an endless number of career options today—many of which didn't exist five years ago—along with a workplace that is changing at a very fast pace. Therefore, if you haven't been getting consistent career coaching or spending time each week developing your career through goals and self-reflection, you've likely made career choices you regret.
The result? Feeling like you stumbled into your career path instead of being in control of it. Here are a few more serious signs that you're in the wrong career. kaya 959
Built environment professionals organisation the South African Institution of Civil Engineering (SAICE) has released its '2022 Infrastructure Report Card' (IRC), which gives the country's infrastructure an average rating of D, on a scale of A to E, with A being world-class infrastructure and E being failed or failing infrastructure.
The D rating means that the infrastructure is not coping with normal demand and is poorly maintained, with risks of any incidents having severe impacts on operations kaya 959
The SA Revenue Service (SARS) has paid reparations and apologised to all former employees that were affected by the events that unfolded "during the capture of SARS between 2014 and 2018", namely the witch hunt around the now-discredited "rogue unit".
The SARS statement follows a Constitutional Court ruling this week that unanimously dismissed suspended Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane's attempts to appeal the invalidation of her probe into the unit, ending years of litigation.
The tax authority said on Thursday night that SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter tendered "a heartfelt public apology to its former employees for the organisation’s actions and omissions that had such a devastating and profound impact on their lives". kaya 959
The 21-year-old software development trainee gave up meals and other necessities to pursue his dream of starting his own e-hailing company, Hike.
Lekala was raised in a small town outside of Witbank, Mpumalanga, and despite his underprivileged background, his family fully supported him, and he ended up excelling in school.
The young man describes himself as having an entrepreneurial spirit. In 2020, he began by saving his Nsfas allowance to buy a printer and print documents for other students.
“I made a bit of money there and funded other ideas which, unfortunately, failed. But this did not dissuade me, and I pushed forward,” said Lekala. kaya 959
Why awesome dads often make great leaders
It should be no surprise that some of the most important qualities for being an effective dad can be especially useful when leading a team or an organization. During this year’s NBA Finals, we saw leaders on both sides of the court who also showed themselves to be dedicated, enthusiastic fathers. If you’re a dad and a leader, being mindful about common traits that great dads and great leaders share can make you more effective in both parts of your life.
They bring strength to those around them
Active and engaged fathers strengthen a child’s prospects for reaching their fullest potential. Research has shown that children thrive in stable and nurturing environments where they have a routine and know what to expect, and that kids with active father figures in the picture are less likely to have psychological and behavioral problems.
This applies to organizations as well. Right now, the majority of employees are looking for companies with a familial, dependable culture to a degree they haven’t before. They want clarity and stability from their leaders, which is something that great dads have experience creating. kaya 959
Chief Director: Sector and Industry Development Goitsione Tladi talks to us on Kaya Biz kaya 959
DStv operator Multichoice has published its interim results for the six months ending 30 September 2022.
The group reported group revenue up 7% to R28.65 billion for the period, with operating profits up 6% to R6.2 billion.
However, it posted a headline loss of R248 million – loss per share of 60 cents – owing to net foreign exchange translation losses of about R3 billion attributable to the weaker rand.
The group’s earnings and cash flows for the interim period were also adversely impacted by an outsized investment in decoders ahead of the upcoming 2022 FIFA World Cup, it said. kaya 959
The Department of Public Service and Administration moved to pour cold water on threats that the Public Servants' Association (PSA) strike on Thursday would disrupt public services, saying it will be a normal day where government employees are expected to be at their posts during working hours.
The PSA, demanding a 6.5% wage increase, said it would embark on a "full-blown strike" on Thursday in the public service after wage talks in the Public Service Coordinating Bargaining Council (PSCBC) reached a deadlock.
The 235 000-strong PSA strike was expected to cause disruptions to Home Affairs offices, transport departments, and border posts. However, the department said it expected all public services to continue as normal on the day of the planned strike. kaya 959
On Tuesday big four bank FNB launched its fourth Vumela fund, worth R200 million, which aims to offer alternate financing to 150 black-owned businesses and create 1 000 jobs.
FNB’s Vumela Enterprise Development Fund was established in 2009 by the lender’s commercial banking unit, in partnership with venture capital and private equity firm Edge Growth. Vumela – an isiZulu word meaning to allow, or enable – aims to create innovative financing models and support so-called ‘missing-middle’ black-owned small enterprises.
The newly launched Vumela 4.0 fund comprises two products: an accelerate loan and a venture debt loan. kaya 959
The Competition Commission has blocked a deal whereby AkzoNobel, the Dutch group that owns the paint brand Dulux, wanted to buy the owner of its local rival, Plascon, in South Africa.
Japanese-controlled Kansai Plascon Africa owns Plascon.
On Wednesday, the commission said that the proposed deal would result in a substantial lessening of competition in the market for the manufacturing and supply of paint.
"This is because the proposed merger combines the largest and second-largest manufacturers of decorative coatings who manufacture the well-known Plascon- and Dulux-branded paint products to create a dominant firm with a considerable market share."
The commission said that the companies are close competitors in terms of price, quality, and product range, and the merger would remove competitive rivalry, "thus reducing consumer choice".
In addition, the companies have both the ability and incentives to foreclose some of their competitors’ access to paint colourants, the commission found.
The companies did not suggest solutions to address the anti-competitive effect of the merger adequately, the commission added. kaya 959
Nhlanhla Nene served as the Minister of Finance of South Africa under President Jacob Zuma from 25 May 2014 until his controversial removal on 9 December 2015, and under President Cyril Ramaphosa from 27 February 2018 until his resignation on 9 October 2018
Mr Nene previously served as the Minister of Finance. He was born on 05 December 1958. He had been a Member of Parliament since 1999. He was appointed into his position in November 2008 and he was re-appointed on 11 May 2009. He holds a B.Com Honours degree in Economics from the University of Western Cape (UWC). He worked as a Regional Administrative Manager for the Metropolitan Life Insurance for 15 years.
He became a Labour union shop steward and led a negotiating Team for better working conditions during the period 1990 to 1995 and he organised the first ever strike in the financial sector kaya 959
The thrive app enables store owners to view supplier invoices and make supplier payments for stock delivery anytime, from anywhere, from their phones! The thrive app is available to download from the Google Play store.
This week we will be talking about customer experience on the App. kaya 959
This new report offers insights into the survey carried out by UNCTAD with member States on the creative economy highlighting institutional arrangements and national plans and strategies for 33 countries. The findings show how the creative economy has become a sector of growing social, political, and economic importance.
The conference which will be hosted in a hybrid format is scheduled to take place in Pretoria, Gauteng, on 9 and 10 November 2022 at the CSIR International Convention Centre.
Organised in partnership with the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, it intends to bring together local and international thinkers, academics, key industry stakeholders, including funders (current and potential), cultural practitioners and artists to share experiences and insights about what and how the industry can rebuild, consolidate and innovate in order to grow and support sustainable livelihoods for the cultural practitioners and the South African creative sector. kaya 959
South African startup Thumela has developed a counter-to-counter last-mile logistics solution to help e-commerce businesses and individuals send and collect parcels faster, cheaper, and more conveniently.
Launched in May, Thumela transports parcels via trusted and vetted public taxi drivers who travel fixed routes. The logistics startup partners with tuck shops in townships or in rural areas, and businesses in or near public taxi ranks, as drop-off and collection points.
With this innovation, founder Zamokuhle Thwala said, Thumela affords its customers the convenience to combine their daily commuting with collection of parcels and thus improve collection experience. kaya 959
Well-connected employees are often the most important assets for an ambitious business. However, they also present a challenge if they leave. They can be valuable commodities in the wider market and therefore more susceptible to approaches from competitors. Alternatively, they might have plans to set up on their own. When good people walk out of the door, clients are frequently tempted to follow. So what can you do to protect that hard-won business?
The most important port of call is the employment contract. If this does not contain any post-termination restrictive covenants, the employer’s protection is very limited. Perhaps there are some restrictions, but they are the same ones that apply to everyone else in the organisation. kaya 959
Wetility has developed a suite integrated smart energy solutions designed to provide customers with a personalised 360 experience. We-X is an easy-to-use digital platform that intelligently enables users to stay connected with remote monitoring and instant alerts, while the PACE device is intelligently designed to control the energy flow to homes and businesses.
With very few South Africans able to access solar power owing to expensive upfront installation costs and, at times, a confusing market, Wetility is looking to shift this with its approach to pricing and technology.
As part of its Pay at Pace solution, the company can install hybrid rooftop solar systems on homes – which includes solar panels as well as its hi-tech PACE device – at no upfront cost to homeowners. Homeowners then receive always-on power from these systems via an affordable monthly lease or power purchase agreement. kaya 959
New data shows that relentless increases in interest rates and inflation are pummeling middle-class South African consumers – who have had no significant increases in take-home pay over the last five years and now rely on unsecured credit to keep their heads above water.
This data comes from DebtBusters – one of South Africa’s largest debt counsellor companies – which has compiled its quarterly Debt Index from data provided by clients who have applied for debt counselling.
According to DebtBusters’ Q3 2022 Debt Index, there has been more than a 30% increase in demand for debt counselling compared to the same period in 2021 – indicating the financial stress South African consumers are currently experiencing. kaya 959
The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) is in support of the Mineral Resources and Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe on his call for Africa to unite against 'coercion' by the global anti-fossil fuel agenda. South Africa secured around R131 billion in a bid to transition from coal and Eskom’s grid towards green energy at the COP26 in Glasgow. A partnership between the US, UK, France, Germany and the European Union will together fund South Africa kaya 959
Times are financially tough right now; food and fuel prices are increasing and rising interest rates mean homeowners will be forking out more on their bond repayments.
And although many people are trying to make ends meet by taking on side hustles or second jobs, demanding work and family commitments plus lack of time and/or disposable money make this impossible for some. This means they are living the same lifestyles in the same homes with the same monthly incomes, but needing more money to survive. As a homeowner you may therefore have to find other ways to afford the increases on your home loan repayments.
Fortunately, there are some ways you can do that without taking on a second job, or even doing much work: let someone else pay the extra on your home loan instalment. Your property can bring in the money to cover your bond increases if you think creatively. kaya 959
South Africa, and the broader Southern Africa region continue to show signs that point to yet another favourable agricultural season in 2022/23, according to Agricultural Business Chamber chief economist, Wandile Sihlobo. He said that in their Seasonal Climate Watch report last week, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) highlighted that “the El Niño-Southern Oscillation is currently in a La Niña state, and forecasts indicate that it will likely remain in this state during the remainder of 2022 and early 2023.” The likely improvement in soil moisture from now until February 2023 was a welcome development as this period covers the cultivation to the pollination stages of crops. kaya 959
Climate campaigners have pitched themselves against African governments that believe they should be allowed to use gas - which emits less climate-heating carbon dioxide than coal and oil when burned - to develop their economies and provide power to 600 million Africans who still lack access to electricity. Activists raised the alarm last month when Tarek El Molla, Egypt's minister of petroleum and mineral resources, told a ministerial meeting of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) that fossil gas is "the perfect solution" to "achieving the energy trilemma for security, sustainability and affordability". kaya 959
Tuesday, 18 October 2022: South Africa needs to prepare for the future world of work by developing future skills that will facilitate economic growth to enable businesses to compete in local and international markets. An advanced workforce will also make South Africa an attractive investment destination and allow us to stop importing skills. How do we make this happen? The world of work is changing super-fast on account of factors like globalisation, digitisation, rise of the consumer and artificial intelligence. Various forecasts of the impact of these estimate that between 50 - 70% of current jobs are being lost to technological advances. Our BRICS partners are moving faster to develop relevant skills for the new economy than we are. Unless we catch up, we will sit with a skills gap. kaya 959
The nonprofit 4 Day Week SA and its coalition of partner organisations have extended the deadline for companies to sign up to be part of a "pioneer pilot" study in South Africa, where employees will be paid 100% of their salaries to work 80% of the hours they did before. And that makes for two more months to convince your boss to give it a try. The study is due to start in early 2023, and initially the deadline to commit to participation had been set at a fairly tight end-October. Now, say those involved, companies can sign a collaboration agreement as late as 15 January. The trial itself is due to run for six months between February and July, but there is some run-up work to be done, such as establishing baseline metrics against which the success or failure of the change can be measured. kaya 959
Do you feel like you’re constantly being undermined at work? If so, don’t worry – you’re not alone. Many people feel like they’re undervalued and undermined by their colleagues, and it can be a really frustrating experience. In this blog post, we’ll talk about why people undermine others at work, and how you can stop it from happening to you. WHAT IS UNDERMINING AND HOW DOES IT APPEAR AT WORK? Undermining is a behavior that involves undermining someone’s authority, power or status. It can be seen in a variety of ways, including making fun of someone, talking badly about them behind their back, refusing to cooperate with them or deliberately doing things to make their job more difficult. kaya 959
The most recent study on life and disability cover by the Association for Savings and Investment South Africa (Asisa) indicates that the untimely death of a breadwinner, or an accident that leaves them disabled, will be a true disaster for most families in SA. The typical wage earner simply does not have enough life insurance and disability cover. Working with national statistics and the total amount of life and disability cover in force in the industry, Asisa calculated that the average worker in SA should have at least R1 million more life insurance than they have now, to avoid their household having to cut living expenses by 30% if the working spouse died or became disabled. kaya 959
Government institutions such as Eskom, Transnet and Denel no longer have to disqualify suppliers just because they do not meet BEE requirements.
After years of sustained pressure, government relented and promulgated regulations stating that state-owned enterprises (SOEs) no longer have to comply with BEE requirements when awarding government contracts. Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana on Friday promulgated new preferential procurement regulations that do away with the controversial qualification that has been in place since 2017. kaya 959
07 November 2022, Johannesburg. Delta Property Fund, a specialist black-managed and substantially black-owned REIT with a significant sovereign underpin today published its half-year results for the six months ended 30 August 2022. “Notwithstanding significant economic headwinds in the macro-economy and especially the office sector, our portfolio performance remains robust as we continue to deliver on the turn-around of Delta. kaya 959
South African retailers are expected to generate around R17.3bn in additional sales over the Black Friday promotional period, representing around 6.7% growth over the Black Friday period in 2021. The number is forecast to be R5.4bn lower than it would have been if South Africa was not experiencing so many days of load shedding, which has been at high levels throughout 2022.
That’s according to new research conducted by the Bureau of Market Research (BMR) on behalf of fintech funder Capital Connect. The research also finds that the motor trade is forecast to generate additional sales value of R5.9bn over
the busy promotional period, which is R2.9bn lower than would be expected in a year with less load shedding. kaya 959
Nonkululeko Gobodo was first thrust into the spotlight as South Africa’s first black female Chartered Accountant (CA) in 1987. In her much-anticipated life story, Awakened… to my true self, Gobodo shares her experiences and the inconceivable trials and tribulations she traversed and conquered to become a CA and how she went on to build one of the country’s biggest and revered accounting firms, Sizwe Ntsaluba Gobodo, now known as SNG Grant Thornton.
Gobodo takes us through a myriad of complexities, such as marrying at age 17 with a child and having failed matric. She relays how she drew on
inspiration from her parents’ business struggles and recoveries, learning from their experiences that we can bounce back from adversity and should never give up on life, nor ourselves. kaya 959
Monalisa Zwambila owns and manages what is probably South Africa’s largest independent, black-woman-owned advertising agency. Over the last decade, R\VERBED (Riverbed) has emerged as a medium-sized agency with revenue well above R50m and 40 employees, placing the agency in league with similar-sized agencies, such as Grey Africa, Saatchi & Saatchi and Net#work BBDO. Year-on-year revenue growth in 2015 stood at 26%, 13% in 2016 and is projected to hit 35% in 2017, pushing it into to the R70m–R100m revenue tier. Zwambila studied accounting but her passion had always been music. She was a member of jazz band Basadi and music allowed her to access her creative side. Her first business was a recording and production studio, where she was fortunate enough to record the late, great Nana Coyote and, in doing so, was exposed to the marketing side of the business. At this point, she moved into P kaya 959
Interest rates may have been muted for the majority of 2021, but 2022 has given rise to some of the biggest hikes of recent years. “The current interest rate of 9.75% is expected to increase by a further 25 basis points before the end of 2022,” comments Grant Smee, Managing Director of Only Realty Group and property entrepreneur. A 1.25% hike may seem insignificant to some wealthy homeowners, but for many South Africans the impact of this increase on home loan repayments has been especially challenging. “There is a delicate balance between affordability, income and interest rates; and quite often, small changes can make a big difference.” kaya 959
The UK Department of International Trade (DIT) on Wednesday released its latest “Factsheet” (actually a 17-page document) on bilateral UK-South Africa trade and investment. The Factsheet covered the four quarters ending at the conclusion of the second quarter of this year (Q2 2022) – or, on other words, Q3 2021, Q4 2021, Q1 2022 and Q2 2022. As it was a British document, all values were naturally given in pounds sterling. To sum up, in the period under review, total bilateral UK-South African trade in goods and services came to £10.7-billion. This was 6.3% higher than in the equivalent four-quarter period up to the end of Q2 2021. South Africa was the UK’s 27th biggest trading partner and accounted for 0.7% of total British trade. The UK DIT ranked South Africa, in terms of gross domestic product, as the world’s thirty-fifth biggest economy in 2021 kaya 959
The Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF) is pleased to announce its financial results for the year ended 31 March 2022. Key Performance Indicators: · o o Market value of R2.3 trillion increasing by R 201 billion from the previous financial year o Investment market value increased by 9.6% o Return on Investment of 11.1% for the financial year o Accumulated funds and reserves grew at an average annual rate of 8.6% for the 10-year period 2013-2022 o Net investment income of R255.7 billion o Member contributions of R82 billion o Benefits paid of R136 billion Despite the Fund operating in tough economic conditions, the GEPF achieved a 9.6% year on year growth, closing with the highest market value in its history of R2.3 trillion in the 2021/22 financial year, an increase of R 201 billion from the previous financial year. This increase resulted in a return on investment of 11.1% realising a net investment income of R255.7 billion. During the 10-year period, 2013-2022, the GEPF’s accumulated funds and reserves grew at an average annual rate of 8.60%. This continued growth of the Fund irrespective of the prevailing difficult economic conditions clearly indicates that the Fund’s long-term investment strategies continue to assist in growing the Fund. The improved return was largely because of positive domestic market conditions, particularly equities growth, rising commodity prices and the performance of our Bond portfolio which improved by 6% from the previous financial year. kaya 959
She went ahead and did the thing financial advisers always tell us not to do. But what else could she do? the businesswoman jokes. She had a vision – to bring exquisitely packaged masonja products to the world, while uplifting her community at the same time – but she didn’t have the capital. “So I cashed out my pension fund to start my business in November 2021,” the Joburg-based businesswoman, Wendy Vesela-Ntimbani, tells Drum. And so far, so good, she adds. There are challenges, she admits, primarily funding. But so far, she has managed to employ seven people, four of whom are based in Johannesburg and three of whom are in Phalaborwa where the harvesting of the delicious mopane worms which are the main ingredient of her products, Matomani, happens kaya 959
With companies taking austerity measures to stay afloat amid and in the aftermath of the COVID-19 lockdown, find out what your rights are when it comes to your employment prospects with these expert insights. CAN I CONTEST A RETRENCHMENT? Before unpacking this question, it’s important to understand the standard process all employers should follow if they are considering retrenchments. First, your employer’s decision to retrench must be a genuine one, which is based on a commercial rationale, says Rudolf Kuhn, an attorney specialising in labour law. “If the employer’s decision is not based on reasons that are objectively linked to genuine operational reasons, such as the company’s financial difficulties, or a restructuring of the company’s business, then the retrenchment will be substantively unfair,” he adds. kaya 959
South Africa’s eCommerce sector is rapidly growing now more than it has ever before. In 2020, South Africa eCommerce grew by 66% compared to the year before. This increase was primarily influenced by the restrictions placed on traditional retail stores that led to the reduction of in-store shopping by 30%. While many sectors of the economy were crippled by varying degrees of lockdown in 2020, online retailers experienced a boom in sales as South Africans avoided shopping malls and stores in favor of home deliveries. According to Stats SA, the market share of online retail in South Africa grew to 2.8% in 2020, double the percentage in 2018. While COVID-19 had a role to play, this surge is expected to grow. Much like how the pandemic changed research for the long term, more South Africans got acquainted with shopping online, experienced the convenience of shopping online and may be shopping online more going forward. kaya 959
Pharmacy and healthcare retail group Dis-Chem says it is trading at pre-Covid levels in South Africa, with expansions and acquisitions boosting its reach and driving profitability. In its interim results for the six-month period ending 31 August 2022, Dis-Chem reported group revenue growth of 9.3% to R16.3 billion over the corresponding half-year period. Retail revenue grew by 9.3% to R14.4 billion, with comparable pharmacy store revenue at 3.6%. If the contribution of Covid-19 vaccines and testing are excluded from both periods, retail revenue grew by 10.0%. Headline earnings increased by an exceptional 44.3% over the prior corresponding period, with basic headline earnings per share (HEPS) at 70.3 cents – an increase of 44.3%. kaya 959
One of South Africa’s largest grocery retailers Pick n Pay is expanding a pilot of adding cryptocurrency as a payment option to more stores after the successful completion of the first phase, it said on Tuesday. The announcement came weeks after the Financial Sector Conduct Authority formally declared crypto assets as a financial product in South Africa, enabling them to be regulated and clearing the way for cryptocurrency to be a mainstream method of payment. “Increasingly cryptocurrency is being used by those under-served by traditional banking systems, or by those wanting to pay and exchange money in a cheaper and really convenient way. Many companies are responding to this by accepting Bitcoin,” Pick n Pay said in a statement. The retailer ran the first phase of the pilot in 10 Western Cape province stores over the past five months with pre-selected testers. It has now extended it to a further 29 stores for testing with customers, with the intention to roll it out to all stores in the coming months, Pick n Pay said. kaya 959
Thrive_ in the mix – thrive_ is more than an app and/or a card machine we’re are in the mix with our traders and have created a rewards club (programme) for them where they can access the essential elements they’ll need to power their weekend sales. These key elements are template builder, access to the thrive_ resident DJ’s, uniforms, and so much more! thrive_in the mix is also about building a thrive_community for all the stakeholders in the traders eco-system i.e. Traders, Suppliers, Staff, DJ’s & the patrons. thrive Know_How -thrive is in the mix with the community, giving traders the necessary business tools to thrive within our communities. Highlighting that they are the main market. thrive_ is the voice of the traders to the brands. Connecting people to brands. kaya 959
Myfleet Track is South Africas most advance fleet tracking and fleet management company offering cuting edge solutions "My Fleettrack is a tracking and fleet management company offering cutting edge tracking and fleet management solutions to a variety of industries. Our products are tailor made to suit your personal and business needs, whether its vehicle tracking, driver monitoring, routing, fuel monitoring, tire management or personal asset tracking, we have a solution for you. Our systems are extremely affordable and easy-to-use." kaya 959
Negotiation is one of the ways companies can reduce cost, increase cash flow and improve margins. Buyers will always want to reduce costs while maintaining the quality of service offered; suppliers, on the other hand, will always want to increase their margins. Given the divergent goals, your best options as a buyer will be to either strike a balance or to reach an agreement on a discount without offending the sellers. But, given that you are on a tight budget, how can you negotiate without offending your sellers? We tell you all about it here. kaya 959
The analysis was performed using Terain, the company's new AI-driven geospatial solution using near real-time app location data combined with Eighty20’s customer profiling information to understand anonymised customer movement behaviour. Andrew Fulton, director at Eighty20, revealed insights into the change in foot traffic, from January 2020 to the most recent data, at seven super regional malls across Gauteng, Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. For this analysis, Eighty20 compared key mall performance metrics - namely overall number of visitors (footfall) and dwell time - at Sandton City, Mall of Africa, Fourways, Gateway, Menlyn, The Pavilion and Canal Walk kaya 959
South Africa’s central bank said it will continue using interest rates to curb inflation, and responded to calls for its mandate to explicitly include promoting economic growth and creating jobs by saying monetary policy already targets those indicators. At 6.25%, the Reserve Bank’s repurchase rate is still below long-term levels and in expansionary territory, Governor Lesetja Kganyago said in a speech in Johannesburg on Tuesday. The consequences of the central bank loosening its grip on inflation and falling behind global peers as rates are being normalised would be “too costly,” he said. kaya 959
SIBANYE-Stillwater may retrench up to 1,959 employees from its South African gold operations following an announcement today it had started restructuring talks with unions at its Beatrix 4 shaft and Kloof 1 plant. This is in terms of Section 189 of the Labour Relations Act which seeks to find ways of minimising job losses through voluntary separate, redeployment of employees and retrenchment avoidance methods. Richard Stewart, chief officer for Sibanye-Stillwater’s southern Africa region said the restructuring was necessary as the operations were making losses that would “threaten the remaining life of mine of the other South African gold operations, and ultimately also the employees of the broader group”. kaya 959
South Africa’s economy is struggling. A number of factors are behind the decline. These include severe power cuts which are taking their toll on all spheres of the economy, rising inflation, increases in food prices, the effects of the Ukraine-Russia conflict, which has resulted in higher fuel and energy costs globally, increases in interest rates, prolonged labour strikes and a high unemployment rate. A further threat to South Africa’s economy is the number of companies that have closed in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic. Data from Statistics South Africa show that business liquidations increased by 44.8% in the year to August 2022. The data also shows that in June 2022 there were 145 liquidations (compared to 132 in June 2021) and that the number of bankruptcies in South Africa increased to 165 in July 2022 and to 239 in August 2022. kaya 959
There is, of course, nothing new about making some extra money on the side. Whether you’re saving for a dream holiday or just trying to keep the wolf from the door during a tough time, taking on a second job, finding a hobby that pays or starting a small business from home are tried and tested ways to boost your income. The digitalisation of the world has though opened up a far wider range of opportunities to hustle on the side and potentially engage an audience of unprecedented size. If you can find the time and energy for it, you can activate multiple income streams by registering your spare room on a rental platform, consulting via Zoom to companies anywhere in the world, buying and selling goods on eBay, and turning your passion for baking into an ad money making YouTube channel. kaya 959
Mark Peason his the CEO of Barron&Cabot -Buying property abroad – it's easier than you think Baron and Cabot, a UK-based Property Company, is helping Africans to acquire property in the U.K with low-interest rates. South Africa’s, Kenya’s, Nigeria’s and Ghana’s middle class and business people have turned to the U.K to buy houses for rent out, mostly due to the high inflation in the countries, which has made acquiring Real Estate property very expensive and mortgage rates very high. As of 2022, rising inflation has become a shared trend in Africa. Global supply disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine are some of the major factors responsible for inflation. Prices are set to rise even further, as Russia and Ukraine are major wheat suppliers to many African countries. Benin, for example, imports all its wheat from Russia, while imports to Somalia originated almost solely from Russia and Ukraine. kaya 959
This is all to say that setting healthy boundaries for yourself at work starts early—as early as the interview process itself. From the interview and onward, you teach your boss and your colleagues how to treat you and how you achieve a healthy work-life balance by implementing physical boundaries, mental boundaries, and personal limits. Here are a few common boundary breakers that we've all likely allowed in the past kaya 959
South Africans should expect inflation to remain elevated in the coming months, economists say, as higher diesel prices and input costs ripple through the entire producer supply chain. The Bureau for Economic Research (BER)’s outlook for CPI sits around 7% year-on-year for the next several months, coming off the back of annual producer price inflation (PPI), which remains elevated. PPI data for final manufactured goods slowed to 16.3% in September from 16.6% in August. However, the BER said this is well above the consensus forecast of 15.6%. kaya 959
A rise in SA union membership and the proliferation of several new splinter unions have had the unintended consequence of sparking more adversarial labour relations and a rise in unprotected strikes. Nxesi said South Africa's union numbers grew from 3.5 million members in 2013/14 to over 4 million in 2020/21 and the number of registered unions rose from 203 to 220 over the same period, highlighting vicious competition for recruits in various sectors. kaya 959
Traxtion Group, the provider of rail services and solutions across the African continent, on Monday announced its intention to embark on a significant investment programme within South Africa’s rail sector.
This follows the Economic Recovery Plan presented by President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Joint Sitting of Parliament on October 15, where he announced that the State would be granting third-party access to the core rail network within the next 12 months. Kaya 959
Pumela Salela is a name most associated with impressive achievements and a bevy of local and international awards in business leadership and branding. The highly respected nation branding architect has now extended her acumen into the world of fashion with the launch of Puparium, a proudly South African luxury brand consisting of kimonos and west African inspired silhouettes. Kaya 959
There are times when, out of our own fear of being rude or uncomfortable, we make money choices that aren't in our best interest. Here are five ways to say a financial "no"—whether it's refusing to loan money or bowing out of Girl Scout cookies.
Have you ever been put on the spot and invited to a home party for kitchenware, essential oils, lingerie, or jewelry, where you just knew you'd be expected to buy something? Ever been in front of a salesperson giving you their most ardent pitch? Money can be an awkward and uncomfortable subject, and a hard sell can be difficult to resist.
Struggling sugar producer Tongaat Hulett, which is choking on a SA debt pile more than ten times its market value, is heading for business rescue after failing to get a nod from lenders on its restructuring plan.
The group needs R1.5 billion as it services roughly R6.3 billion in SA debt and continues its sugar milling season, but it said on Thursday that lenders, after advancing R600 million, now want this repaid. Kaya 959
Township Wall Media/Murals are out of home structures owned by Township Communities and have been turned into canvases for advertising purposes.It is way businesses are able to empower members of local communities, especially the township. The point of the conversation is to equip people with the criteria needed should they want to offer the homes for mural advertising. Kaya 959
Smanga Mthembu, a Soweto entrepreneur who is making a difference in his community through his recycling business, is living up to the Nelson Mandela Day theme to ‘Do what you can, with what you have, where you are’.
By transforming an illegal dumping site into a reliable, award-winning recycling business called Umphakathi Recyclers, the 30-year-old is empowering his community and helping to provide dignified funerals, while looking after the environment. Kaya 959
South Africans are lying to secure car and home loans – and getting away with it.
The latest South African Banking Risk Information Centre Annual Crime Statistics (Sabric) report shows a drastic increase in the number of fraudulent Vehicles Asset Finance (VAF) applications as well a slight – but felt – increase in home loan fraud.
Sabric looked at fraud-related information provided by major financial institutions such as Capitec, Bidvest, Absa, Discovery Bank, FNB, Standard Bank and others. It said that the statistic used covered the period from 1 January to 1 December 2021.
Criminals are taking it upon themselves to try their luck in getting their hands on large sums of money. Vehicle financing company Wesbank reported that the average value of cars financed in August of this year was R337,252. Kaya 959
Like the National Prosecuting Authority, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) will receive more bucks in its budget to improve its ICT capabilities.
This was presented in the 2022 Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) presented by National Treasury.
Says the MTBPS: “The South African Revenue Service will receive additional funds to improve information and communications technology capacity and revenue collection capabilities, and to report on tax administration digital resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
In the past, the revenue authority’s ICT infrastructure was the subject of much debate. Kaya 959
Finance minister Enoch Godongwana delivered the 2022 Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) on Wednesday, 26 October.
The budget touched on many points and topics that were raised in the lead-up to the speech, including the South African government taking over a portion of struggling power utility Eskom’s debt, and giving a solution to the ongoing e-toll problem in Gauteng.
It also included a reframing of South Africa’s economic outlook from the February speech, which took place in a very different world. Kaya 959
Deputy finance minister David Masondo’s concerns regarding the lack of progress in unlocking private sector involvement and investment in railways should be heeded ("Think again on time frame for private access to railways, says Masondo”, October 23).
Speaking to Business Day at the Kgalema Motlanthe Foundation inclusive growth forum, Masondo said: “The main concern has been the private actors saying the timeline for us to operate on rail has been too short. Two years is not enough if you were to invest in locomotives... so it’s something that we are going to be looking at.” Kaya 959
LUNTU is a 100% South African, Black Womxn owned online marketplace where customers may shop brands and products that matter to them in an easy way.
Amahle Ntshinga of Luntu, a conscious online store that sources products from suppliers who come from marginalised groups. Today, Luntu is doing business in 24 countries across six continents. ‘I wanted people like me – who care about shopping for local, black-owned, women-owned and/or environmentally friendly products – to buy these items easily,’ says Amahle.
Luntu.co is a conscious online store where customers can type the product they are buying with the LUNTU Index. The Index shows if a product is: Black owned, woman owned, South African owned, LGBTQ+ owned, made in South Africa, organic, vegan, eco-friendly and more.The company delivers products to customers in 24 different countries, across 6 continents. Kaya 959
10X agrees to buy Core Shares to create R31bn+ full-service indexing business
10X Investments has agreed to a 100% cash purchase of Core Shares, creating a full-service South African indexing investment specialist with more than R31 billion in assets under management. Kaya 959
As we approach a post-pandemic world, businesses now face a new challenge of leveraging what they’ve learnt and stepping up the pace to future-proof their business so that they can be prepared for changes in the business landscape that have progressed from the ‘new normal’ to the ‘next normal.’
Gary Epstein, MD of EasyBiz Technologies, the authorized local partner for QuickBooks Online in South Africa, unpacks what businesses can do to stay relevant in an ever-changing world. Kaya 959
Kagiso Khaole joins us in studio, giving insight in the business and operations not forgetting the change in environment due to the pandemic.
He unfolds how Uber has grown and expanded since the introduction of Uber X and Uber Black which was launched 10 years ago. Kaya 959
Rooibos tea was recently added to the European Union's register of products with a protected designation of origin, and farms in the Cederberg region of the Western Cape report an influx of international tourists.
Rooibos is a unique and sought-after plant. It's only farmed in the Cederberg, and its leaves have been used to make flavourful tea for hundreds of years. It's a proudly South African plant and product which has made its way into cups across the globe. Kaya 959
The Public Servants Association (PSA) has given Sars a notice of its intention to go on strike after receiving a certificate of non-resolution of the dispute from the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA).
According to the PSA, the strike notice follows the failed wage negotiations in which the parties deadlocked and could not conclude the wage agreement for 2022/2023. Kaya 959
The IPO would be launched on June 9, 2022 by Angola's largest bank Banco BAI, which is majority-owned by state-owned oil company Sonangol and diamond producer Endiama E.P.
In a statement released via its website, Banco BAI explained that both Sanongol and Endiama E.P will collectively issue 10% of their shares during the IPO. The shares will be priced at $41.75 each, bringing Banco BAI's valuation to $972 million. Kaya 959
How can African mining position itself for tech growth given its’ significant young population, and how does mining attract the brightest talent in a competitive market? What role does tech have to play in the Just Transition for coal-based economies like South Africa? Johan Meyer – Executive Head of Projects and Technology, will be unfolding these in conversation. Kaya 959
We’ve all had good managers, bad managers and lots who were somewhere in-between. The worst managers of all are the ones who create a toxic work environment. You know the ones — I call them toxic bosses. It’s the team where everyone holds their breath when the boss comes in the room and don’t let it out until they’re gone. It’s the team where people burn out from being overworked and not receiving recognition. It’s usually a team where people are out for themselves and collaboration is less than rampant, because after all, the boss sets the example! Kaya 959
Right now, South Africa needs every entrepreneur it can get. They don’t just drive economic growth: they create employment and help address societal challenges. Just ask emerging Limpopo farmer Cynthia Mokgobu, who has gone from growing vegetables in her backyard to farming spinach, butternut, baby marrows and cabbage for local and Gauteng markets on 3 hectares of land outside Bochum village. Kaya 959
Hundreds of mining industry leaders from across the world and government officials are gathered at the indaba, which is organised to showcase the continent’s potential in the sector.
This year's theme is 'an evolution of African mining: investing in the energy transition, and the economies.' Kaya 959
It’s official. The government has now signed the agreement to sell a controlling shareholding in loss-making South African Airways (SAA) to the Takatso Consortium.
Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan confirmed this during an address to the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) on Tuesday. Kaya 959
Accenture (NYSE: ACN) has launched its Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) marketplace platform with a focus on supply chain in mining. The platform has been developed in partnership with Adapt Digital Solutions and in collaboration with the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) to bridge the gap between mining companies and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Kaya 959
How can African mining position itself for tech growth given its’ significant young population, and how does mining attract the brightest talent in a competitive market? What role does tech have to play in the Just Transition for coal-based economies like South Africa? Johan Meyer – Executive Head of Projects and Technology, will be unfolding this for us in conversation. Kaya 959
South African home buyers are currently putting down the smallest deposits to buy a property in about 14 years, according to the latest FNB Residential Property Barometer.
The national loan-to-price ratio - the proportion of the purchase price that lenders are willing to fund - has increased to 94.9% in the first quarter of 2022. (This implies a national deposit or down-payment rate of slightly more than 5%. Deeds office data for all banks - not only for FNB - was used and shows this is the highest the ratio has been since the second quarter of 2008. Kaya 959
What is rental income? How is tax calculated on rental income? How is tax calculated on rental income? These are some of the questions you should be asking if you earn an income from property. Kaya 959
The signing of the Township Economy Development Act into law by Gauteng Premier David Makhura has been hailed by the province as a breakthrough in the development of its township economy. The Act is aimed at addressing the legacy apartheid left on Gauteng’s townships and is meant to open up new procurement and market opportunities for township businesses According to Gauteng Economic Development MEC Parks Tau, other provinces have been inspired by the law and were looking at developing their own legislation to boost townships. Kaya 959
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) remains steadfast that the rules are the rules when it comes to claiming home office expenses, particularly for people who are employed. It disallowed more than 60% of home office claims during the 2021/22 tax year, mainly because people did not qualify in terms of the current legislation or got their calculations wrong. The flood of claims was understandable since employees and any children attending school and university were forced to work and study from home when the Covid-19 pandemic hit the country. Although the rules are what they are, SARS is not always right when disallowing home office deductions. Taxpayers should not be afraid to approach the Tax Board or the Tax Court if SARS has applied the law incorrectly, says Carmen Westermeyer, a facilitator of The Tax Faculty’s monthly tax discussions. Kaya 959
The government says emergency measures have been implemented to ensure a steady supply of jet fuel at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg amid fears a crisis could derail the recovery of the aviation industry.
Supplies of jet fuel to OR Tambo, one of Africa’s busiest airports, have been curtailed in recent weeks due to flood damage to railway lines in KwaZulu-Natal. The fuel shortage has disrupted the schedule of airlines, especially international carriers, forcing them into refuelling detours, potentially increasing their costs.
The transport department said at the weekend supplies of jet fuel will come through a special pipeline consignment. A ship carrying a consignment of fuel arrived at the Durban Port on May 5. Kaya 959
Google News Initiative (GNI) today announced the opening of the Digital Immersion Programme, South Africa edition. The Digital Immersion programme is a five day interactive workshop for key decision makers, designed to accelerate a publisher’s journey toward digital reader revenue.
The programme is designed for publishers at the beginning of their digital reader revenue journey and is aimed at organisations looking for rapid and actionable solutions to help in their transition to digital reader revenue. Publishers participating in the 2022 South Africa edition include: Caxton Digital, Arena Holdings, Sunday World, Sabido, Primedia Broadcasting, among others. Kaya 959
The opportunity to re-open old abandoned gold mines in South Africa, many of which are forgotten and vandalized, presents the investor, government and community a viable way to estalish a legal small scale mining industry. Under the right circumstances many of these abandoned mines offer a potential return on investment. The value add is not only for the investor and state, but also benefits the surrounding communities that were established around these mines years ago and could uplift the community’s current socio economic status.
Many of these gold mines have substantial mineral resources that could support small scale mining for the next 10 years and play a material role in the inland revenue of South Africa and the rejuvenation of the local economies. Kaya 959
Most employers and recruitment agencies today are using social media to source the right candidates, which means it should be a big part of your job search strategy. On-line social network sites have become an essential forum to advertise your skills and allow you to establish your social brand, network with people online, identify job opportunities, and turn those leads into real-life job opportunities. Kaya 959
The SA mining industry plays a significant role in the country’s economy. According to the Minerals Council Facts and Figures Pocketbook, in 2020 the sector employed in excess of 450,000 people, contributed about R361.6bn, roughly 7%, of the GDP and delivered R27.2bn in tax revenue. Yet, when it comes to transformation, it is mired by challenges and opposing views.
Amid regulatory uncertainty, with the mining charter subject to legal challenges, the sector is operating without any B-BBEE framework against which to measure its transformation.
Sector leaders joined Andile Khumalo, co-founder of Sanlam Gauge, in an online workshop to deliberate on the transformation challenges facing the industry and to chart the way forward. Kaya 959
The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) is scheduled to participate at the annual African Mining Indaba, a prestigious gathering of key industry executives, stakeholders, and funding institutions. The Indaba is back following a two-year hiatus necessitated by Covid-19 restrictions and resulting social and economic considerations. Scheduled for 9 -12 May at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, the Indaba will be a hybrid and physical event. Themed ‘Evolution of African Mining: Investing in the Energy Transition, ESG and Economies, this year’s Indaba is significant given the industry’s resilience amid rising global economic challenges and geopolitical tensions in parts of Eastern Europe. Kaya 959
South Africa is likely to see another interest rate hike next week, although the increase could be larger than previously forecast, say economists at the Bureau for Economic Research (BER).
The forecast comes after the US Federal Reserve hiked its policy rate by 50 basis points (bps) last week, which was the biggest increase in more than twenty years – although some market players had bet on a 75bps hike this month.
Going forward, Fed chair Jerome Powell signalled that 50bps increases were also likely at the next two meetings (June and July), with a probable return to 25bps increment increases from September. Kaya 959
The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) has received a number of enquiries from motorists about how insurers will treat motor vehicle claims where the insured person’s driver’s licence has expired after 31 August 2021.
The validity of licences that expired between 26 March and 31 December 2020 was extended until 31 August 2021 to assist those motorists in renewing their licences when they could not do so during the lockdowns of 2020. Kaya 959
One of the best ways to make more money in your business is by selling more of your product or service. There are many ways to increase sales, depending on your industry, market and business goals. One of the first steps is to develop a strategy and stick to it. Kaya 959
Shumani Industrial Equipment, established in 2015, is a proudly Level 2 B-BBEE company. It prides itself on being a world-class product and service solutions provider. Shumani Industrial Equipment’s comprehensive range includes forklifts and warehousing equipment, cleaning equipment, access equipment, compact construction equipment, engines, generators, agricultural equipment, and compressor equipment. Its scope of supply encompasses outright purchase, short-term and long-term rental, full maintenance leases, and full technical support. Industries include mining, construction, industrial, warehousing, and manufacturing. Kaya 959
The 5th of May marks World Password Day, a global date recognising the importance of strong passwords to ensure users remain safe while using online services.
However, cybersecurity experts are warning that consumer habits of sharing personal information online - for example on social media - combined with the mass troves of personal data that were stolen during recent data breaches have put consumers at risk of increasingly sophisticated social engineering attacks. This means individuals will need more than just a strong password to stay protected. Kaya 959
The March 2022 edition of this report looked at the potential impact of higher commodity prices (specifically food and energy) on local producer and consumer price inflation. Trade unions’ elevated wage and salary expectations add an additional element of cost pressure for South African companies. The local labour movement is powerful in its ability to shape remuneration trends due to the country’s high rate of unionisation. According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), South Africa ranks 26 out of 104 countries for union membership with a trade union density rate of 28% in 2016 (latest available comparative data). This is notably higher than an average of 22% amongst the 104 economies recorded by the ILO. Due to this high density rate in South Africa, the flexibility of wage determination is constrained. The World Economic Forum (WEF) Global Competitiveness Report 2019 ranked South Africa a lowly 134th out of 141 countries for wage determination flexibility while cooperation in labour-employer relations is ranked an even-worse 139th. Kaya 959
Labour Unions representing South Africa’s 1.3 million state workers demanded 10% pay increases to help them offset soaring electricity, transport and food costs.
The unions are also pushing for a single-year pay deal because they no longer trust the government to honor longer-term accords, according to a presentation they made to the public sector bargaining council on Wednesday That comes after the government reneged on increases agreed to in 2020, the final year of a three-year deal, on the grounds that it was unaffordable. Kaya 959
Two enterprising Southern African entrepreneurs have established a Southern African Investment Forum (ISAF) and secured an initial $10 million in international funding for emerging African businesses.
Frustrated by the impact of COVID on local economies, disruptions to supply chains and funding delays from formal quarters, Johannesburg-raised Tessa Pule (Chief Operations Officer) and award-winning Namibian entrepreneur Regto David (Chairperson) have combined their resources and networks to assist Southern African entrepreneurs to secure funding for their businesses. Kaya 959
Diketso Setho and Thabang Chokwe (25) are the owner of GH Mall, an online mall that gives township businesses the opportunity to sell their products online. It mainly targets small businesses that sell clothing, accessories, local art, merchandise and books.
A resident of in Mayibuye, a township between Midrand and Tembisa in Ekurhuleni, Setho could not afford to study further after matric. Instead, he taught himself how to do computer programming and completed short courses online to increase his information technology knowledge. Kaya 959
Can you terminate an employee if they have been charged with a criminal offence? As with most things HR — it’s rarely clear cut, and this kind of situation is no exception. It does depend on the crime and whether they are convicted. There is a distinction between the two. Most importantly however is whether there is a “relevant connection” between any criminal offence committed by an employee, and their actual employment duties, as well as the procedure you follow in seeking termination.
Someone who has simply been charged has not yet had their day in court to defend themselves. If they are charged and later escape conviction, dismissing them could be seen as unfair as it was a premature decision. Moreover, is there a connection between their employment and the offence that was committed outside of work? If this offence was committed at work, then an employer must deal with the matter through the proper disciplinary procedure. Extra caution must be taken if your employee has been charged with an offence outside of the workplace. Kaya 959
SA is among the top 10 countries found to have experienced the most cybercrime in 2021, according to research by cybersecurity company Surfshark.
The overall numbers in SA, which ranked sixth, are significantly lower than the UK’s, which topped the overall cybercrime density list for the second year in a row. Kaya 959
President Cyril Ramaphosa has hailed a new brick manufacturing plant in Driefontein, west of Johannesburg as the fruits of the annual South African Investment Conference.
President Ramaphosa delivered the keynote address at the official opening of Corobrik’s Kwastina manufacturing factory on Wednesday. Kaya 959
The Practice Note builds on the enforcement and advocacy work that the Commission has undertaken with Insurers and Banks over the years. The Commission regularly receives complaints alleging unfair competition practices in supplier panels that relate to the provision of services to customers of banks and insurers such as conveyancers, various household repairers, automotive repairers, and product suppliers.
In this regard, the Commission undertook advocacy engagements with the major banks during 2020, which addressed competition issues related to conveyancing law firms that are on the panels of the major banks. Kaya 959
The transition to a cashless society is underway in some parts of the world, but South Africa and other emerging markets remain a “cash-full society,” characterized by various businesses and industries where cash is still king.
South Africans are not opposed to digital transactions; however, the majority still rely on cash transactions. The cash problem is not only an external or environment-based issue, people still have a deep sentimentality associated with cash. While technology may offer us a new convenience, it also requires a behavioural change in consumers, which they may not be willing to accept. Kaya 959
Slowing property price growth and continued strong competition between banks for home loans favours entry into the property market for new homebuyers.
Statistics for the first quarter of 2022 (Q1 22) from ooba, South Africa’s foremost home loan comparison service, indicate a residential property market and lending environment that still favours entry into the property market as slowing house price growth coincides with more accessible home loan finance. Kaya 959
You may be considering some home improvements in the near future, but do you know which ones will increase the likelihood of a quick and profitable sale of your property? If you want to work your way up the property ladder to your dream home, you need to know how to maximise the value of where you live now. Kaya 959
Emotions and investing are like oil and water – they simply don’t mix. Reacting to big market swings in the short-term environment can have detrimental consequences for long-term investors, such as locking in permanent losses that cannot be recovered over time. Marise Bester, investment specialist at Allan Gray, joins Kaya Bizz to discusses how investors can manage their emotions and perceived risk during times of market turbulence. Kaya 959
The Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF) and the Public Investment Corporation (PIC) have signed a new unlisted developmental investment mandate. The GEPF is the largest pension fund in Africa, with assets in excess of R2.1 trillion, which are managed by the PIC. The GEPF first introduced the unlisted developmental investment mandate in 1997 under the name Isibaya Fund and subsequently renewed it over the years. Kaya 959
The rand held its ground against the dollar in afternoon trade on Tuesday (3 May), having given up 3.6% over last week, trading at R15.99 relative to the greenback – near its weakest levels in nearly five months.
Load shedding, floods in KwaZulu-Natal, rising inflation, and a stronger dollar have all played their part in pushing the rand back above R16.00 versus the dollar in recent sessions, before Tuesday’s slight recovery. Kaya 959
The indaba is Africa’s biggest tourism trade show where African countries showcase their destinations to global tourism buyers. It is estimated that this year’s indaba will generate R72, 5 million to the local economy. Kaya 959
What are the normal working hours in a week?
According to the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA), the maximum normal working time allowed is 45 hours weekly. This is nine hours per day (excluding a lunch break) if the employee works a five-day week, and eight hours per day (excluding a lunch break) if the employee works more than 5 days per week.
This does not mean that the employee must work 45 hours per week normal time. The amount of normal time worked is a matter of contractual agreement between employer and employee. Some employers work a 40-hour week, and so on. Kaya 959
South African commercial property owners are now offering potential property buyers almost interest-free loans to supplement their already secured bank mortgages, to ensure they secure their asking price.
These vendor loans (or vendor finance), are fairly well known internationally, but are now growing in popularity in South Africa, said Gary Palmer, chief executive officer of Paragon Lending Solutions. Kaya 959
There are indications that interest rates will slowly increase over the next few years, while fuel price continues to climb at a steady rate, notes Ester Ochse, product head: FNB Money Management.
These two increases will have an impact on the amount you will pay for two important “needs”, housing and transport. Ochse said there are some quick tricks you can do to reduce some of the costs associated with these needs or manage the needs better. Kaya 959
A new landmark study is set to call out the most significant operational, regulatory and legislative challenges experienced by tax practitioners in South Africa with a view to improving the level of support provided by industry bodies and expediting often-onerous interactions with government tax agencies.
Developed by Tax Consulting SA’s Professional Partner Network (PPN), the study invites tax practitioners, accounting practitioners, legal practitioners, wealth and asset management firms, and global advisory companies involved in all areas of tax to participate. Kaya 959
South Africa’s workforce needs to step up efforts to become more effective contributors to South Africa’s economy, a skills development and recruitment services company has urged.
This Workers Day, Afrika Tikkun Services (ATS) challenges workers to take responsibility and rise to the task of bringing their best ethical and professional selves to work, committed to developing the skills that will keep their jobs sustainable and beneficial to the home and the economy. “It's important that economic empowerment ensures that people acquire the skills which translate into real economic activity,” says ATS CEO, Onyi Nwaneri. Kaya 959
From 1 January 2023, consumer goods giant Unilever will stop marketing food and beverages to children under the age of 16 years old, across both traditional media and social media. The global move comes in response to ongoing scrutiny around the manner in which food producers advertise products high in fat, sugar and salt to young people.`
Currently, in most countries in the world, the food and beverage industry restricts marketing to children under 13 years old. Kaya 959
AM2PM Consulting is a Level 1, 100 % Black Women Owned Business. Anusha Mariemuthu is the Managing Director and has over 17 years’ experience in Transformation, B-BBEE, Human Resources, Employment Equity , Compliance , Change Management , Quality Assurance, Academia, Learning and Development in both a union and non unionized environments working within compliance and statutory frameworks. Kaya 959
Financial freedom can sound like a farfetched dream. But the truth is, it is possible for anyone to achieve. No matter what financial troubles you have today, there’s always a way to get back on track.
Review your financial status.
To know where you are going you need to know where you are coming from. The first step towards realising your financial goals is to reflect on your current financial standing and what are some of the traits that have landed you in the situation you’re in – keep the good ones and work on the not-so-good ones. Reviewing your financial situation helps you to have a realistic look at where you are and what you need to get to where you need to be. Kaya 959
Refilwe is an experienced marketer with over 10 years in the FMCG sector working across multiple brands and geographies.
Refilwe completed her Business Science degree with Honours in Marketing from the University of Cape Town, and began her career at Unilever in 2006 working in the Asia, Africa, Middle East and Turkey (AAMET) team across a spread of global and local brands. Kaya 959
The National Treasury has announced the commencement of the Bounce Bank Support Scheme aimed at providing additional funding to qualifying businesses in order to grow the South African economy and to facilitate job creation. The scheme was first signaled in Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s Budget Speech in February. In a statement on Tuesday, Treasury said the Scheme is expected to facilitate the recovery and bounce back of businesses beyond the Covid-19 pandemic lockdowns. Kaya 959
Striking employees at Sibanye-Stillwater’s gold operations on Tuesday rejected the miner’s final settlement offer of R850 each year for three years, saying the “whopping” R300m CEO Neal Froneman earned in 2021 strengthened their resolve to push ahead with their demand for above-inflation wage increases. To discuss, Daniel Banepile, NUM (National Union of Mineworkers) President joins us to discuss. Kaya 959 Website
With current youth unemployment of 65.5% in South Africa, it is clear most young people will not get a formal job. Realistically, only a small proportion of them could potentially develop into high-growth entrepreneurs. Michelle Matthews discusses how solopreneurship might offer opportunities for South Africa’s unemployed youth. Kaya 959 Website
The e-hailing community is going through turmoil. From bad drivers (in the system) who are attacking women to petrol hikes that are affecting driver revenues, it must be the worst time to be in the business. As the challenges unfold, there’s a blame game under way and the most responsible parties, the owners of e-hailing apps, are not bothered. That narrative is set to change as members of the E-Hailing industry prepare for an upcoming summit to discuss these issues. Vhatuka Mbelengwa, Spokesperson for the E-hailing Industry joins us to discuss what to expect. Kaya 959 Website
The landscape of agricultural sector has changed rapidly over the last past two decades, posing major challenges for all participants in the sector, and in particular for emerging black farmers. Congress Mahlangu, Spokesperson for the National Emergent Red Meat Producers Organisation speaks to us about the challenges black farmers face in the industry. Kaya 959 Website
Prof. Ncoza Dlova , South African dermatologist. In 2019, she helped discover a new gene that is a major cause of permanent hair loss amongst women of African descent. The NwellePro Product line helps to address several of the needs of both “Afro-textured” and “Eurasian” hair. The hair product range was created by Dermatologists from South Africa, (Prof Ncoza Dlova ) and New York (Dr Achiamah Oseitutu) who are specialists in Hair disorders and have decades of experience in medically and surgically treating scalp conditions. Prof. Dlova joins us to discuss her product. Kaya 959 Website
When former President and apartheid struggle stalwart Nelson Mandela took office in 1994, the country was optimistic of a democratic, inclusive, and discrimination-free society. Under apartheid, many skilled jobs and high positions were reserved mostly for White South Africans, whilst qualified Black people were legally excluded from such senior-level jobs. Bheki Ntshalintshali, COSATU General Secretary joins us in this conversation.
The South African economy has undergone a substantial transformation since the advent of democracy. It recorded an average rate of economic growth of 3.3% per annum in real terms over the period 1994 to 2012, a remarkable improvement on the 1.4% average annual growth registered during the period 1980 to 1993. Professor Bonke Dumisa, Independent Economist joins us in conversation. Kaya 959 Website
Much like how that one scuffed dining room chair will lower the value of the whole set, one unkept property will drag down the prices of all the surrounding homes. Fonz Vogdanos, Real Estate Specialist at Keller Williams joins us to discuss and answer these questions. Kaya 959 Website
Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk agreed to buy Twitter for $44 billion (R689 billion), using one of the biggest leveraged buyout deals in history to take private a 16-year-old social networking platform that has become a hub of public discourse and a flashpoint in the debate over online free speech. Bataung Qhotsokoane, Tech Researcher & Columnist iAfrikan.com talk to us about this massive deal. Kaya 959 Website
If used correctly credit can add positive value to your overall financial well being. But you need to ensure that you understand what the total amount is that you will re-pay and if that amount is reasonable for the need you want to use the credit for; whether it be for renovating your home, buying stock and equipment for your side hustle; or paying for your child’s education. Avitha Nofal, Senior Legal Advisor & Council Secretariat · Credit Ombud helps us understand what credit actually costs. Kaya 959 Website
An influx of new technology-driven financial services businesses will materially improve access to finance for African entrepreneurs. With an annual Trade Finance gap of between $80bn and $120bn, the African continent has a well of untapped potential in the small and medium enterprises (SMMEs) sector and closing the gap will be transformational for the continent. We speak to John Molanda: Head, transactional banking Sales at Absa CIB for more. Kaya 959 Website
A group of social justice organisations has warned that millions of poor South Africans may not receive Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grants in April – and that hundreds of thousands will be excluded in future due to new changes about who can qualify. Kelly Howson, Researcher at The Institute For Economic Justice (IEJ) discusses these new grant regulations. Kaya 959 Website
Wondering which youth-owned brands are the most cherished in South Africa? This year, Pat on Brands will be launching its inaugural awards showcasing the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brand Awards. This is the first of its kind in the country aimed at recognizing and empowering proudly South African brands that are owned by the youth. The award ceremony is set to take place on the 15th June in Sandton, Johannesburg. Kaya 959
There seems to be an increased move by municipalities to change their property rates policies to allow them to bill game farms on a commercial rather than agricultural scale.
In Mangaung, the latest to propose such a change, it means owners of game farms will pay 15 times more from July 1, should the proposal be adopted. Kaya 959
The social world and workplace often rewards extroverted behaviour because of the bias towards action rather than contemplation. However, if your personality tends more towards being an introvert, it can be challenging to navigate workplace environment. When it comes to personality types most of us tend to lean toward either introversion or extroversion, according to how we gain energy and where we direct our attention. While activities and people energize extroverts, introverts need time to themselves to reflect and recharge. Introverts are drained of energy by interaction, and gain energy in solitude or quieter, more low-key environments. Kaya 959
There are many different opinions when it comes to investment styles, be it active vs passive or trading vs buy and hold. For many, a long-term strategy with a focus on quality wide-moat companies is viewed as a sure-fire way to succeed in compounding wealth. Kaya 959
In light of the extraordinary damage inflicted by flooding in KwaZulu-Natal, the South African Breweries (SAB) has pledged to donate towards assisting with relief efforts. Although SAB’s prospection brewery in Durban was affected by the flooding, SAB says these funds will go directly to relief efforts for the local community. Kaya 959
In 2019, tourism accounted for a tenth of global GDP and jobs but the coronavirus pandemic decimated the $9.6 trillion industry, halving its output value and leaving 62 million people jobless. The global travel and tourism sectors are projected to return to pre-pandemic levels in 2023 and grow at a rate that will outpace global gross domestic product (GDP) growth, the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) said on Thursday. Kaya 959
All-of-society to address urban governance issues, highlights SACN’s 2021 State of Cities Report Now in its fifth edition, the South African Cities Network (SACN)’s State of Cities Report 2021 (SoCR) has been released and, overall, strongly points to the need for a whole-of-government and all-of-society approach to address rampant urban governance issues, many exasperated by recent emergencies in the financial, health, corruption and climate environments that each require swift, integrated and effective governance. Kaya 959
Offshore investing is often demonized in the media, which paints a picture of tax-evading investors illegally stashing their money with some shady company located on an obscure Caribbean island. While it's true that there will always be instances of shady deals, the vast majority of offshore investing is perfectly legal. Kaya 959
Old Mutual is proposing a new empowerment transaction that will lift black ownership in the insurance giant from 25% to over 30%.
The insurer now wants to issue approximately 205.3 million new Old Mutual shares in the new empowerment transaction, named Old Mutual Bula Tsela, which means "pave the way" in English. The new shares will equal about 4.36% of Old Mutual's issued share capital. Kaya 959
Mphethi Morojele is owner and founder of the MMA Design Studio, an award-winning architecture and urban design studio based in Johannesburg, South Africa. For the last 25 years MMA has been involved in architectural and urban projects in various countries on the African continent including South Africa, Lesotho, Mozambique, Uganda, Ethiopia, Botswana and Burundi. Kaya 959
Eskom blamed the tardy approval process in bringing additional generation capacity to the grid as it imposed the worst rolling power cuts so far this year and warned of up to 100 days of outages for the year ahead in one of the latest reminders of one of the biggest factors hobbling the economy. Persistent operational and financial problems at Eskom heap pressure on President Cyril Ramaphosa to push through reforms at the utility to lift the economy out of a decade-long downward spiral. Eskom is choking on nearly R400bn in debt and its energy availability factor — a metric that measures the performance of its plant — has been deteriorating. Kaya 959
Business school Startup Circle says it is helping connect South African entrepreneurs with investors, and – using three-minute pitches – land the money they need, without a business plan.
Learning how to do that will set you back R16,500.
The school – which launched in 2020 and now counts 5,000 students in 50 different counties – takes a practical approach, culminating in 10-slide pitch deck. Kaya 959
You have a great business idea and need time to bring it to fruition. In the meantime, you may wonder how to protect a business idea and ensure your future success. Unfortunately, many fail to take reasonable steps in protecting a business idea from competitors and lose their rights, even as the original creator. Kaya 959
Accidents happen, whether you prepare for them or not. One way to protect your small business against the inevitable is by acquiring small business insurance. The best way to choose the right insurance for your business is to learn about your options. We’ve compiled a list of 26 business insurance types for you to consider. Kaya 959
South African Insurance Association (Saia) on Friday estimated the damage in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), which had been declared a State of Disaster after heavy rain and floods left a trail of destruction in the province, will be higher than R1.1 billion.
“The damage to infrastructure in KZN after the 2019 flash floods was estimated at R1.1 billion yet estimates for this this one already exceeds that,” it said in a statement, adding the devastation and loss of lives following the recent floods marked the worst natural disaster ever experienced in South Africa. Kaya 959
On the 7th of April, Wits University’s Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct signed phase two of their partnership agreement with Agence Française de Développement (AFD) and the French Institute of South Africa (IFAS). The partnership is valued at EUR 450,000 (R7, 200,000) in support of the Creative and Cultural Industries in Africa. The Precinct, based in Braamfontein, aims to create world-leading African digital entrepreneurs through developing a digital skills pipeline and incubating digital entrepreneurs. Kaya 959
On Saturday it had already become apparent just how much trouble Eskom’s generating unit was in. At that evening’s peak – during the Easter long weekend when electricity demand was more than 5 000 megawatts (MW) lower than it would’ve been on a weekday – the utility could only provide 27 633MW of capacity. And this included the use of 11 open cycle gas turbines (OCGTs). Renewables contributed just less than 1 500MW. Kaya 959
Much has already been said about the Property Practitioners Act (PPA) and Regulations which came into effect on 1 February and the immediate effects on consumers in the property sector as well as all the estate agents, brokers, property managers, auctioneers, management and sales agencies need to be registered. So as usual, HOA directors and Body Corporate trustees would do well to check that anyone they hire is fully compliant. This is even more important if the managing agency will be collecting levies and paying the accounts of the Community Housing Scheme. Kaya 959
Investing can often feel like being on a rollercoaster ride, with unpredictable highs and lows, and periods of uncertainty that test our resolve. Being a resilient investor can help us look through cycles of extreme market volatility and improve our investment outcomes in the long term. Cedrick Pila, regional manager at Allan Gray, joins Kaya Bizz to share the steps you can take to become a resilient investor. Kaya 959
Tuesday, 19 April 2022 marks 100 years since the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) issued its first banknotes. The banknotes were issued 10 months after the SARB was established on 30 June 1921. Prior to that, South Africa had no monetary authority, however, the commercial banks were responsible for issuing banknotes into circulation. From 19 April 1922 the SARB was granted the sole authority to produce, issue and destroy South African currency, and is entrusted with ensuring the availability and integrity of the South African currency. Kaya 959
Inflation will be firmly in focus this week with the consumer price index (CPI) expected to have continued its relentless upward climb in March and possibly even breached the upper 6% limit of the target band. If CPI does hit 6% year on year in March — from 5.7% in February year on year — it will be the highest monthly print since March 2017. Kaya 959
Creators known as "finfluencers" make content about finances, from budgeting tips to explainers on complex investments. Some use their platforms to promote investing in certain stocks or assets, promising their followers lofty returns. Many flex their luxurious lifestyles on Instagram and TikTok, and credit their wealth to their investing savvy.
The Australian government is cracking down on the creators who offer financial advice without a federally-issued license. In an information sheet released last month, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) warned that influencers who continue to offer unlicensed financial services can be penalized with hefty fines and up to five years of jail time. Kaya 959
Elon Musk offered to buy Twitter for $54.20 a share in a filing published Thursday, saying the social media company needs to be transformed privately, a little over a week after first revealing a 9.2% stake in the company. Musk’s offer values Twitter at about $43 billion. Kaya 959
We all need to live somewhere and as human beings we tend to place a huge emphasis not just on having a house but having a home. It is always an emotive topic, and history shows that few things get people as animated as a bull market in house prices. Unfortunately, history also shows that few things are as likely to cause a financial crisis as an overheated housing market (the other major culprit is excessive borrowing in a foreign currency). The 2008 global financial crisis (GFC) famously had its roots in low-quality (‘subprime’) US mortgages. Kaya 959
Taelo Mojapelo is CEO of bp Southern Africa (bpSA). She took over the reins in June 2020, during very challenging and unprecedented times. She has demonstrated strong leadership in responding to the COVID-19 crisis, supporting the teams, and ensuring safe and reliable operations as well as business continuity.
Taelo is an experienced business leader with a proven track record of successfully devising and delivering business strategies. She has 20 years professional experience in Africa and a wealth of commercial and operational experience in Supply Chain, Leadership, Strategy and Operational Excellence. She joined bp from Mondelez International where she held the position of Supply Chain Director. Prior to this, Taelo held several operational and senior leadership supply chain roles at South African Breweries, Kellogg’s and DHL. Kaya 959
The large scale looting and burning in KwaZulu-Natal last year damaged business confidence in the province, leading to one of South Africa’s largest truck and trailer building companies, Serco, starting this year with its lowest order book since the huge financial crisis of 2008! Serco’s CEO and President of the Durban Chapter of Entrepreneurs Organisation Clinton Holcroft said 2021 had been a tough year for business in KZN. “I believe the unrest took the wind out of our company’s sails, evident in that our usual end of year peak period failed to materialise. I attribute this to a large extent to the loss of business confidence and the extensive property damage which resulted in many businesses not being able to resume trading by the end of the year, if at all,” said Holcroft. Kaya 959
In September 2021 the National Empowerment Fund (NEF) and the Solidarity Fund’s Humanitarian Crisis Relief Fund (HCRF) launched a financial relief programme to support small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) recover from the devasting effects of riots in KwaZulu Natal and some parts of Gauteng, setting aside over R580 million for the purpose. Stepping forward to support business recovery and save jobs Kaya 959
The CEO of Black Entrepreneurs Alliance is calling the Gauteng government to pay SMEs on time. He is available to chat about the frustrations of SMEs and how the Gau government can make the life of SMEs a lot easier.
Call for Gauteng Government to pay SMEs timeously.
Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) released the latest unemployment data this week, confirming what many of us expected given the state of the economy. The official unemployment rate increased by 0.4 of a percentage point to 35.3% during the fourth quarter of 2021 – revealing yet again, the dire rate of joblessness for South Africa. Kaya 959
27-year-old Ofentse Pitse is the first black South African woman to conduct and own an all-black orchestra. Her 40-piece symphony orchestra contributes to shedding light on African composers and propelling young black youth to excellence.
Although most classically trained musicians start training at an early age, South African born architect Ofentse Pitse played her first instrument at the age of 12. She fell in love with sounds from there and was exposed to a plethora of genres. Pitse believes her musical gift is a calling and credits her grandfather believing she is his reincarnation. He was a trumpet player and an orchestra conductor himself and his legacy pushed her towards her achievements. Kaya 959
Employees often find themselves in employment conditions that are difficult to deal with. However, how does one mark the difference between difficult employment conditions and employment conditions that are so intolerable that the employee is forced to resign?
What Is Constructive Dismissal? Constructive dismissal can be defined as a situation or an environment in the workplace, which has been created by an employer in which it becomes intolerable for an employee to continue employment and where the employee is left with no choice but to resign. The precise legal definition can be found in Section: 186 (1) (e) of the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995, as amended. Kaya 959
In 2022, ransomware will continue to harm businesses all over the world, with cybercriminals' attack types and strategies evolving all the time. The increase in ransomware attacks on businesses means that businesses must be hypervigilant about cybercrimes and be aware of the growing trends that will accelerate throughout 2022 in preparing their defences against ransomware attacks.
Top ransomware attacks South African businesses should look out for during the remainder of 2022 were identified by the cybersecurity experts. Kaya 959
It says the magnitude and the frequency of the storms were proving to be a massive risk to the growth and development of the local economy. According to the Chamber’s CEO, Palesa Phili, the region is home to some of South Africa's largest manufacturers, who are under threat. Kaya 959
Mr Price has reached a deal for a 70% stake in Studio 88, which will add more than 700 stores, predominantly in SA
Fashion group Mr Price has signed a R3.3bn agreement to take a controlling stake in the Studio 88 group, SA’s biggest unlisted apparel retailer, as it seeks to fulfil its ambition to become Africa’s most valuable retail brand. Kaya 959
Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) released the latest unemployment data this week, confirming what many of us expected given the state of the economy. The official unemployment rate increased by 0.4 of a percentage point to 35.3% during the fourth quarter of 2021 – revealing yet again, the dire rate of joblessness in South Africa.
According to Mr Refilwe Monageng, CEO of the Black Entrepreneurs Alliance (BEA), one of the effective ways to combat the rising levels of unemployment in the country is to give small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) access to cashflow. This is the best chance to grow and sustain their businesses, which in turn will automatically create large numbers of job opportunities in the economy. “As the Government of South Africa, it is their responsibility to create a conducive environment for SMEs to thrive, and to support these businesses in as many ways as possible.” kaya 959
When the COVID-19 pandemic first hit in 2020, the Central Business District (CBD) of the country’s major metropolitans Durban, Johannesburg and Cape Town became ghost towns as office workers were forced to work from home. Two years later, some working professionals have chosen to take advantage of flexible work-from-home policies and flee the city for smaller towns, often in search of a more relaxed lifestyle for their families. However, an unusual demographic has moved in to take their place and revitalise the CBD: younger millennials and Gen Z’s aged between 20 and 35. kaya 959
South Africa, 12 April: Capitec has been driven by the same vision since its inception. To be the bank that provides everyone with access to simple, affordable and personalised banking and allows them to live better. This unwavering focus on doing what is right for their clients has yielded 84% growth in group headline earnings to R8.4 billion for the 2022 financial year. This represents a compound annual growth rate of 23% since 2012. Named the strongest brand in SA in the Brand Finance 2022 ranking, the bank increased its active client base by 14% to 18.1 million, which translates to nearly 190 000 new clients per month. Active digital banking clients (app, internet banking and USSD) grew by 17% to 10.1 million, of which 6.6 million clients use the banking app, up 25% since 2021. Despite the challenges presented by COVID-19, several hard lockdowns and the civil unrest in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng, Capitec’s accessible product offering continues to resonate with all South Africans. Mercantile Bank, a division of Capitec, also reported a growing client base with its total active business clients increasing by 10% to 125 270. Gerrie Fourie, Capitec Chief Executive Officer, says, “During the past year, our agility and focus made it easy for the bank to quickly adapt to the new reality. We viewed the challenge as an opportunity to assist our clients and make banking uncomplicated and accessible to all. Capitec’s digital solutions have been crucial in enabling this growth. In addition, our staff have been instrumental in this adoption and have excelled in this new, hybrid, digital world.” kaya 959
A home can quickly become an obstacle course when new disabilities affect your life. Stairs, doorways, passages, bathrooms, and doorknobs may become overwhelming challenges, and some surfaces may suddenly be hazardous. Fortunately, there are ways of updating your home to ensure your safety and comfort and enable independent living without needing to move. How you transform your property into a comfortable home for you or your loved ones living with disabilities will depend on your available budget. Some options may be beyond your means, but many are feasible for most homeowners and could also increase the value of your property. Stairs Stairs are a hazard for anyone with limited mobility and become impassable obstacles for those in wheelchairs. Even single storey homes are likely to have one or two steps at entrances. For homes with just a few steps, ramps could be the answer. Threshold ramps will make entrances easily accessible. kaya 959
The Competition Commission is taking its bid to prosecute Group Five for allegedly being part of a construction cartel that rigged tenders for the Fifa 2010 World Cup stadia, to the Constitutional Court.
Group Five has thus far blocked action against it based on a claim that the Competition Commission granted the company immunity from prosecution on November 2, 2009. kaya 959
South Africa’s central bank said on Tuesday in a biannual review of its monetary policy stance that a continued economic recovery was threatened by inflation, as price pressures had risen markedly. The bank added that it expected monetary policy to remain accommodative and in a presentation accompanying the review described the policy trajectory as “threading the needle between support and inflation risk”. kaya 959
The National Consumer Commission (NCC) urges consumers in possession of certain Dark and Lovely Precise Diamond Straight and Shine relaxer 125 ml tub (with batch numbers below) to immediately discontinue use of the product and return it to the point of sale for a full refund. The manufacturer of Dark and Lovely informed the Commission of the recall of the product following 22 complaints from consumers. Kaya 959
The managing director of RCL Foods' chicken division, Marthinus Stander, says poultry price increases may be unavoidable, and both producers and consumers are likely to feel the impact of the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Some of the major crops produced by Ukraine are maize and soybeans, which are critical for chicken feed. About 70% of the cost of raising a chicken comes from its feed, of which 60% is maize, 30% is soya, and 10% is made up of other ingredients, according to Stander. Kaya 959
Moving from employee to consultant requires a shift in mindset. As an employee, you enjoy much less risk and greater predictability than a consultant. You work with the same people, are assigned working space and equipment to do your job, are prescribed days off (paid, no less!), and generally know what to expect from day to day. A consultant, however, has none of that predictability, especially at the beginning. If you are a creature of habit or a social animal, making a shift in behavior that comes naturally to you will be a challenge to overcome. Kaya 959
Saving money and putting personal finance tips into practice can be challenging. Tucking away money for an emergency fund, much less a down payment on a house, retirement, or a child's college tuition, can take years of steady saving and a huge amount of discipline. Of course, barring catastrophe, once you establish those emergency savings and develop positive spending and saving habits, staying on top of your finances gets a whole lot easier.
Once you're no longer living paycheck to paycheck and have money tucked away to cover a medical emergency, a job loss, or a vacation, you've reached a state of financial stability—but that doesn't mean you can just stop thinking about where your money is going. Turns out, it is possible to keep too much money in the bank, and tucking all of your savings there can actually hurt your long-term financial goals. Kaya 959
Two of the country’s largest metros are proposing tariff increases for its utilities of around 10%. The City of Ekurhuleni wants to increase the prices of water and sanitation by 11% for the 2022/23 period which begins on July 1. The City of Joburg has proposed increases of 9.75%, very close to 10%, for the same two services. Both metros want to increase the tariffs charged on electricity by 9.61%. Kaya 959
South Africa has seen a sharp decline in the number of new coronavirus cases since the Omicron-driven peak in December 2021, but analysts and the government are warning of a possible fifth wave of infections in the coming weeks. Covid cases in the country appeared to have bottomed, but new cases could start to move higher in the next several weeks, the Bureau for Economic Research (BER) said in a research note on Monday (11 April). Kaya 959
South Africa continues to see a huge amount of unclaimed pension fund benefits, with billions of rands owed to approximately five million members. The figure was first reported at R42 billion in 2020, but has subsequently increased to R47.3 billion in 2021, a report published by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) shows. Kaya 959
With WesBank stalwart Chris de Kock retiring as CEO from the end of June, the vehicle finance division of JSE-listed FirstRand announced on Tuesday that Ghana Msibi – the current CEO of WesBank’s motor retail division – will take over the driving seat as WesBank CEO. Kaya 959
Lending against property is a great way of releasing sizable amounts of cash to help your situation. In order to get a loan on your house or property and still own it, the property must be fully paid up (no bond, No encumbrances). This is a great way of unlocking cash for your house or property, especially if the property market is depressed and selling it is not an option. Kaya 959
Mashoto Mokgethi is the Head of Domestic Tourism for South African Tourism. Her current position includes developing trade and consumer strategies to grow the culture of travel amongst South Africans – an important contributor to the country’s social and economic growth. She is in charge of the popular Sho't Left campaign, which encourages South Africans to travel their country by reminding them that "It's Your Country, Enjoy It". She has qualifications in both Statistics and Marketing, and a 13-year experience in the tourism industry. Kaya 959
National Treasury director-general Dondo Mogajane will depart in June when his five-year contract ends, the finance ministry said on Thursday. He will “pursue new opportunities outside the public sector”, said finance minister Enoch Godongwana. Mogajane has been with the Treasury for 23 years, rising to the position of DG. Kaya 959
South African businesses enjoyed a brief “post-Covid honeymoon” due to pent-up demand and low interest rates during the second half of last year, which saw an improvement in their profitability and financial stability. But all those gains may be eroded with higher global inflation and rising interest rates now a threat to their stability. This is according to the Turnaround & Restructuring team at Deloitte Africa, which produces the Deloitte Stability Index (DSI), a measure of financial stability (or instability) across sectors and companies listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE). Kaya 959
Long gone are the days when, if you live in the township, you had to consider the fuel expenses or taxi fares involved when trying to satisfy your craving for sushi, dim sum or ramen. South African cuisine is among the most diverse in the world and foodies' appetite for different tastes of the world, with a Mzansi twist, is being satisfied by locally brewed entrepreneurs, such as Tshepiso Mahika, who have big, big plans for making township food offerings as diverse as possible. This mobile sushi bar is based in Soweto inside Disofeng Pub & Restaurant. Kaya 959
The publication of new regulations to contain the spread of Covid-19 – to replace the emergency regulations enacted under the state of disaster – has elicited strong criticism, with people accusing politicians of aiming to entrench unnecessary regulations only to extend their power. The new Code of Practice was issued a few weeks ago and is designed to enforce measures to be taken in the workplace to contain Covid-19 infections after the lifting of the National State of Disaster. The latter was announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa on Monday night. Kaya 959
SME's and entrepreneurs are still feeling the long-term repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Business owners not only suffered the effects of the pandemic on their operations, but were also left reeling when the July 2021 civil unrests took place. Both these incidents have highlighted the importance of insurance for business. Kaya 959
Last year, Greyhound Coach Lines announced its closure effective 14 February 2021. The bus company, which had been operating for 37 years, mentioned that the reason for the closure was due to financial constraints over the years, which were exacerbated by the COVID-19 travel restrictions. Over a year later, the luxury liner announced the return of their services. Greyhound will start operating from 13 April 2022, assisting millions of passengers with transportation services across Southern Africa. Kaya 959
Controversial Chinese fast fashion company Shein was valued at $100 billion (R1.4 trillion) following a recent funding round, which makes the online retailer worth more than H&M and Zara combined, the Wall Street Journal reported. Kaya 959
The residential property industry continues its upward trajectory, and investors are getting in on the action. However, with the rise of investors choosing to take advantage of low prices and invest in ‘buy-to-let’ properties comes an excess supply of rental properties in areas with high supply and low demand.
Residential rental vacancies in Gauteng are currently sitting at a high rate of 11.9%, while the Western Cape is sitting at a slightly lower 11.4% vacancy rate according to TPN’s 2021 Q4 data. Kaya 959
Your house is a prized asset, and if you decide to sell it, you may be tempted to control every aspect of the process yourself. After all, you’re so financially (and emotionally) invested in the home, that it may feel like you’re giving away a part of yourself. However, the process of selling a house privately does introduce a few complications. Kaya 959
Fraud levels tend to rise during times of economic distress, with those who fall on difficult times more easily duped by scammers. Preying on our desperation, fraudsters use clever antics to fool even the most discerning investors. Nomi Bodlani, head of Direct Clients at Allan Gray, joins Kaya Bizz to discuss the latest investment scams you should be aware of and to share tips on how you can scam-proof your investment approach. Kaya 959
The Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), has announced its intention to amend the JSE Listings Requirements to enable the listing of actively managed exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Actively managed ETFs are different from passive, index-tracking ETFs. The fund managers who run actively managed ETFs choose shares and make regular trades to generate returns for investors. Kaya 959
The lifting of the State of Disaster by the President does not mean that employers are off the hook. Besides the fact that there are transitional provisions that stakeholders will have to comply with, such as the wearing of masks in indoor public places and the limitations on gatherings, there are three core laws that need to be complied with.
"The Code of Practice on Managing COVID-19 at the workplace applies immediately and requires employers with more than 20 employees to conduct a risk assessment, design a risk mitigation plan that addresses the potential need for mandatory vaccinations as well as other mitigatory provisions such as santisation, mask-wearing, social distancing and ventilation, consultation on the plan with unions and OHS committees and implementation of the plan," says HR expert, John Botha. Kaya 959
The NHI will always remain a hot topic fueled by speculation and political ambitions, but none of us can deny that, for the good of the country, the healthcare system needs to transform. The NHI is still a surface-level discussion. We are many years down this road and inputs to a NHI system began in 2006. It’s a real pity we still have no idea of the benefits it will cover. Kaya 959
The SA Revenue Service (Sars) has vowed to further strengthen tax administration after preventing nearly R210 billion revenue leakage in the 2021/22 financial year.
There is a significant disconnect between the lifestyle that some South Africans are leading and how much they pay in tax, says South African Revenue Service (SARS) commissioner Edward Kieswetter. Kaya 959
On the 18th of March 2022, three days before the Human Rights Day commemoration, the Minister of Employment and Labour Thulas Nxesi, published the Code of Good Practice on the Prevention and Elimination of Harassment in the Workplace. The code aligns with the South African constitution, which protects the right to dignity, equality and fair labour practices in terms of the Bill of rights. The code is guided by the International Labour Organisations Violence and Harassment Convention, 2019 (No. 190) that recalls “the Declaration of Philadelphia that affirms that all human beings, irrespective of race, creed or sex, have the right to pursue both their material well-being and their spiritual development in conditions of freedom and dignity, of economic security and equal opportunity. It further recognises every worker’s right to a world of work free from violence and harassment, including gender-based violence and harassment. Kaya 959
Omega is a Data Analyst by profession with 7 years experience in finance and psychology. He has worked as a portfolio strategist specializing in research and trend forecasting and has joined us today to share his insights on "Current Global Affairs and the investment opportunities they present" Kaya 959
] In a discussion document published on its website, energy regulator NERSA is proposing an average increase of 7.47% in municipal electricity tariffs from July 1. For the coming financial year, it proposes the continued use of the historic method of tariff setting by providing a guideline to municipalities of the percentage increase to be implemented compared to existing tariffs, as well as tariff benchmarks for different costumer categories.
The National Credit Regulator (NCR) has in recent times noted advertising practices by debt counsellors and unregistered persons that are misleading and deceptive, unlawful and contrary to the provisions of the National Credit Act (NCA) and its regulations, causing harm and distress to unsuspecting consumers. This press release is intended to warn consumers against such advertising practices and request consumers to report these practices to the NCR.
Advocate (Adv.) Kedilatile Legodi, the Manager of the NCR Debt Counselling Department says that “in recent times, there has been a surge in advertising for “debt review removals” and some consumers are charged in the excess of R8000 to have his/her debt review flag removed”. Consumers are warned that this “debt review removal” is not supported by law. In a recent High Court Judgment, delivered by three High Court Judges, the Court stated that debt review removal is not possible for consumers who have been declared over indebted, and that consumers need to pay up all debt, except where a bond is not in arrears, to be removed from debt review. Where a consumer has a debt review court order, no Court, not even the High Court can rescind such judgment. Kaya 959
By some measures South Africans are the second most stressed employees in the world. Lump the impact of Covid-19 on top of this and it’s easy to see why our country is facing a mental health crisis. Mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety cost the economy more than R200bn a year through people missing work and “presenteeism”, a situation in which employees are at work but perform at lower levels, primarily as a result of mental ill health.
WHAT ARE THE BEST TAX-SAVING STRATEGIES FOR SMALL BUSINESSES? To help small business owners and entrepreneurs save taxes through legitimate and easy ways, we asked experienced entrepreneurs and financial advisors this question for their best strategies. From hiring family members to implementing HSAs, there are several simple ways that may help you save on taxes. Kaya 959
Mondli Makhanya, who is currently the Editor-in-Chief of City Press, has been in the media industry for more than 26 years. He is one of South Africa’s most respected editors and an influential columnist. Makhanya’s insights into South Africa’s political and social developments are much sought after. He is a regular speaker at public and private events and is frequently invited to speak on panels across a range of topics. Makhanya began his career at the Weekly Mail where he covered the transition to democracy and reported on business and economic debates. During this time, he also served a stint at Newsweek magazine in New York. After the Weekly Mail, he worked for The Star as political writer and later as Deputy News Editor and Executive Editor. Kaya 959
Trade movement Fairplay wants the value added tax (VAT) on some chicken cuts meant for the lower income market to be scrapped to ease the impact of rocketing food prices. According to estimates made in a 2018 report, this could lop off about R1.2 billion in tax revenue. Kaya 959
The government will intervene to soften South Africa’s record-high petrol price in April, says finance minister Enoch Godongwana. Addressing parliament on Thursday (31 March), Godongwana said this would be done by temporarily reducing the general fuel levy (GFL) included in the Basic Fuel Price by R1.50/litre for the period between 16 April to 31 May 2022. Kaya 959
Unoshea was born after a business trip to West Africa (Accra in Ghana), where a brick of unprocessed shea butter was given to me by a friend after a conversation about dry skin. It was my first encounter with the product but I soon discovered that shea butter has been used for years in that part of the world as well as globally.
After using the shea butter, I got curious and started numerous experiments to soften and fragrance the unprocessed shea butter for daily use. I was in my kitchen – mixing, cooking and whipping for months – mainly using YouTube as my instructor. Six months of trial and error, but I persevered… One evening, all of my toiling paid off and Voilà! I’ve created my own whipped body butter! After selling to close friends and family, this quickly spiralled into a business. We have since introduced additional products and the UnoShea brand has grown significantly. Kaya 959
SA-based creatives’ recruitment offering BlueAvo was officially launched in March 2021 to help talented African creatives connect with prospective employers.
Co-founder Indira Tsengiwe described the platform to Ventureburn. “BlueAvo provides unbiased access to a pipeline of commercial opportunities to one of the biggest economic sectors on the African continent – the creative industry. The technology empowers hidden talent to be discovered at the click of a button, enabling anyone, anywhere on the continent to have access to work,” she explained. kaya959.co.za
The opposition Democratic Alliance says it will table the Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Amendment Act, or ‘Social Impact Bill’, as a private members’ bill for public comment. The bill proposes scrapping the current Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) Act and making several key amendments to the Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act (PPPFA). Kaya 959
South Africa’s employment crisis continues. The latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey Q4:2021 by Stats SA shows another increase in the official unemployment rate which now stands at 35.3% - the highest since the start of the QLFS in 2008.
• 35.3% is South Africa’s official unemployment rate expanded 46.2% • The official unemployment rate for youth aged 15-34 is 49.0% (60.4% expanded) • The unemployment rate for youth aged 15–24 is 66.5% (expanded 77%)
During his state of the nation address, President Cyril Ramaphosa stressed that the state of the economy and the 11 million citizens who did not have jobs were among the country’s biggest challenges. In a follow-up press conference, he said the unemployment crisis gave him sleepless nights. Youth unemployment remains the biggest crisis of our times. Three out of four young people between the ages of 15 -24 are not employed. Kaya 959
WHILE the battle for Ithala Bank to become a fully-fledged state-owned bank with a right to compete with the big five banks escalates, the KwaZulu-Natal parliament doubts Ithala would be able to acquire its permanent banking licence by the end of next month, which is the cut-off date.
The bank has been struggling for about 10 years to obtain a permanent banking licence and as a result, it had, up to now, been operating with a renewable Banking Licence Exemption Notice, which is renewable every 12 to 24 months. The temporary licence limits the activities of the bank, which was established by the then KZN government, leaving bigger banks to still control the sector. Kaya 959
The bank made the announcement on Tuesday.. Rautenbach has been promoted from the position of Chief Executive for Retail and Business Banking. “He joined Absa in 1997 and has held several senior roles over the years, including Chief Risk Officer, Chief Executive: Retail Banking South Africa,” Absa said in a statement. Kaya 959
The most common query conveyancers receive is how someone can get their partner’s name off their title deed. This refers to the need to undo, and terminate, the common practice of owning immovable property jointly with another. WHAT IS INVOLVED IN TRANSFERRING A HALF SHARE (OR ANY SHARE) IN A PIECE OF LAND? Joint ownership also refers to co-ownership and these terms are used interchangeably. There are many articles about co-ownership or joint ownership; but none of them explain the complicated and costly process of cancelling that original joint ownership relationship. Frequently the circumstances and relationships between the erstwhile co-owners, change over time and they subsequently decide to undo the original co-ownership. This frequently results in transferring a half share to one of them, enabling the beneficiary to become the full and sole owner of the whole property. Alternatively, they may decide to jointly sell and transfer each of their shares in the land to an independent third party. Kaya 959
JSE-listed Telkom will continue to pursue court action to invalidate the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa) spectrum auction, saying the R2.1 billion worth of spectrum it secured does not allow it to compete effectively. During the auction, which took place in mid-March, Telkom won 20MHz of 800MHz spectrum and 22MHz of 3500MHz spectrum for the price of R1.5 billion and R608 million respectively. Kaya 959
South Africa’s employment crisis continues. The latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey Q4:2021 by Stats SA shows another increase in the official unemployment rate which now stands at 35.3% - the highest since the start of the QLFS in 2008.
• 35.3% is South Africa’s official unemployment rate expanded 46.2% • The official unemployment rate for youth aged 15-34 is 49.0% (60.4% expanded) • The unemployment rate for youth aged 15–24 is 66.5% (expanded 77%) Kaya 959
After two years of Covid-19 lockdown, as employees shift from remote working back to office work, the challenge for business now is not only adapting to changes in technology and new modes of working, but to guard against a second pandemic of mental illness.
Two years ago, on the morning of Friday, 27 March 2020, South Africans woke up to Day 1 of a drastic, pandemic-induced lockdown – a “new normal” of social and physical isolation and juggling remote working with supervising home schooling and queueing for basic necessities. Kaya 959
With hybrid work, the workplace is no longer inside the four walls of the corporate office—it’s an ecosystem of employees working from home, in coworking spaces, and the office. “It offers employees the autonomy to choose to work wherever and however they are most productive,” said Linda Trim, Director at Giant Leap, one of South Africa’s largest workplace design consultancies. Kaya 959
It’s not clear how or why, but in recent years compromise seems to have become a dirty word. No longer the venerable art of give-a-little-to-get-a-little, compromise is for many people a sign of weakness. It’s for losers, they claim, and it leads to mediocrity. But no. Compromise is your go-to option when faced with an uncontrolled and sustained conflict. Very often the only way to power through a standoff is to cede a bit of ground, providing a mini-success that helps people start to work together again. Kaya 959
It is an exciting time when a business has reached the point where it is thinking of acquiring another company. Before the process begins, it needs to decide which avenue is right for the purchase.
Generally, there are three avenues through which a company can purchase an existing business. The purchasing company may either purchase the target company’s assets, purchase the company’s stock, or merge with the target company. Kaya 959
Sihle Magubane’s life was turned around when his adventures in coffee began a decade ago. Almost by chance in 2003, he was selected for training at the Ciro Coffee Academy, where he obtained the comprehensive international barista certificate through city & guilds, an internationally accredited training body. He joins us to discuss the impact of rising coffee prices. Kaya 959 Website
Starting a business fundamentally requires you to take a chance on yourself, and that’s exactly what Mahlatse Mashao had to do three years ago. It was while she was hospitalised that she found a well of motivation, launching Dipalesa Flowas as soon as she was released. She joins us to discuss her journey. Kaya 959 Website
When President Ramaphosa engages us in his State of the Nation Address on the 10 February, his plate will be full of several issues he has to focus on. While he cannot ignore SA’s pressing needs of poverty, inequality, and unemployment. He must keep in mind the immense challenges faced by entrepreneurs in the light of the Covid-19 pandemic, the recent unrest, and the ongoing economic downturn. Shawn Theunissen President Of The Johannesburg Chamber Of Commerce And Industry joins us to reminds us of the importance entrepreneurs, and why they need to be addressed in the State of the Nation Address. Kaya 959 Website
The announcement of the new minimum wage for South Africa, received a warm welcome by South African wage earners. Based on the gazette published on Monday the 7th of February 2022, the national minimum wage is now R23.19 for each ordinary hour worked as of the 1st of March 2022. To discuss the impact this has on employees, we speak to Mamokgethi Molopyane , Mining And Labour Analyst And Jeandie Leonie, Commercial Executive At Workforce Staffing. Kaya 959 Website
With the ravages of the Covid-19 pandemic still being felt, a growing number of South Africans in full-time employment are taking on a ‘side hustle’ to supplement their income. Remote working has also provided employees with a great opportunity to engage in secondary jobs, especially where once being at the office may have been a hindrance. Phetheni Nkuna , Director Of Employment Law, tells us what the law says about how you can keep up your side hustles. Kaya 959 Website
New data from consumer credit reporting agency TransUnion shows that there has rarely been a better time to buy a new car in South Africa over the last decade than right now. The VPI measures the relationship between the increase in vehicle pricing for new and used vehicles from a basket of passenger vehicles which incorporates 15 top volume manufacturers. The index is created using vehicle sales data from across the industry. Kriben Reddy, Vice President of Auto Information Solutions At TransUnion speaks to us for more. Kaya 959 Website
While South Africa prepares to introduce a new minimum wage in the coming months, it is unlikely to be sufficient to lift people out of poverty. This can be contrasted to a ‘living wage’, which is a wage that is sufficient to allow workers to maintain a frugal but dignified standard of living, says professional services firm PwC. Leila Ebrahimi, PWC P&O Reward Co-Lead speaks to us about the new minimum wage. Kaya 959 Website
You’ve scoured the web for what feels like weeks, and you’ve finally found your dream home! You’ve put in your offer, and it’s been accepted. But before you can pack your boxes and move into your dream home, there are certain requirements needed when buying a home in South Africa. Hopewell Sathekge, Attorney, Conveyancer and Notary Public of the High Court of South Africa, specialising in commercial property law. Kaya 959 Website
No significant government-led infrastructure project has been initiated since 2018,” said Ann Bernstein, executive director of the Centre for Development and Enterprise, at the release of a new report. This CDE report is based on a high-level workshop between leaders in the financial sector and the senior government officials responsible for the state infrastructure drive. Kaya 959 Website
Don’t Have Money to Study? No Problem: Maharishi Invincibility Institute have 250 Bursaries Available for Matriculants, worth R135,000 each. Dr Taddy Blecher, CEO Of Maharishi Invincibility Institute joins us to discuss what Maharishi does, and how they can help you. Kaya 959 Website
February is the final month of the financial year, and a good time to check that you have made the most of potential tax savings in the context of planning for your retirement. This is particularly relevant to provisional tax payers, whose deadline for tax returns is 28 February. Craig Gradidge, Co-Founder Of Gradidge Mahura Investments helps us take a look at how to get the most out of your retirement annuities and more. Kaya 959 Website
The number of South Africans who are employed has plunged by 2.1 million since Covid-19 first hit local shores, translating to an alarming average of over 3,800 fewer breadwinners each day. This calls for urgent attention to be given to creating jobs in the upcoming State of the Nation Address. Happy Ngidi, Acting CEO at Proudly South African joins us to discuss. Kaya 959 Website
Aaron Motsoaledi, Minister of Home Affairs, has Gazetted the long-awaited new Critical Skills List, which had not been updated since 2014. This has been welcomed with open arms by corporations across South Africa Kaya 959 Website
The mindset of a permanent work position equating to job security for the long-term, has changed over the past two years. Many permanent staff in SA have faced retrenchment, as seen in Q3 of 2021, with 660 000 locals becoming unemployed, thus showing that a permanent position does not equate to job security. Tania Govender, National Sales Manager At Worldwide Staffing discusses more. Kaya 959 Website
To discuss the twentieth anniversary of the African Union, and what the organisations future holds, we speak to Victor Kgomoeswana, an Afro-Optimist, Media Commentator, Columnist, Speaker And Author. Kaya 959 Website
We received voice notes from two Kaya Biz listeners who asked about compound interest on retirement and car loan. So, we’ve decided to bring in Andile Fulane, CEO Of Finlite, Pioneer and Advocate of Financial Literacy to answer questions around how compound interest works, the types of accounts that offer it, and lots more. Kaya 959 Website
Johnny Muteba has a very special ability of connecting entrepreneurial vision, creative passion and innovative problem solving. He offers a broad range of professional services for artists, corporations, universities and government across all he does; he taps into the power of creativity to innovate lives, bottom lines, organizations and communities which sustain us. He joins us to discuss his journey. Kaya 959 Website
Meta Platform's shares plunged more than 20% late on Wednesday after the social media company posted a weaker-than-expected forecast, blaming Apple's privacy changes and increased competition for users from rivals like TikTok. Does the mean a shift to other platforms is near? To find out more, we’re joined by Bryan Turner, Data Analyst at Worldwide Worx. Kaya 959 Website
A Competition Commission (CompCom) investigation has implicated JSE-listed FirstRand Bank Limited, through its WesBank division, and Toyota Financial Services South Africa Limited (TFS) in a vehicle finance collusion scheme, and recommends that the Competition Tribunal fine the companies 10% of their total turnover. To discuss this investigation, we’re joined by Makgale Mohlala, Manager: Cartels Division, Competition Commission of South Africa. Kaya 959 Website
South Africa's tax authority has uncovered a $1.8 billion gold scam, in which coins and jewelry were illegally smelted into gold bars for sale overseas, a watchdog said Thursday. How does these incidents keep happening? And how do we avoid them? Peter Major, a Veteran Mining Engineer, Fund Manager and Analyst helps answer these questions. Kaya 959 Website
The self-taught chef from Soweto in Gauteng combined his love for food and his business skills when he turned his vehicle into a food truck where he sells burgers in his community. From repairing the pickup to creating the custom frame for the kitchen setup. Today the owner of Grub Worx not only receives rave reviews on his Facebook site but is in demand all over Soweto. Tiyani Maluleke , Founder Of Grub Worx joins us to talk about his rise. Kaya 959 Website
When it comes to the Koeberg Nuclear Power Plant, Eskom have decided that since Koeberg produces electricity at a cost of around R0.45 per kWh, it is a ‘no-brainer’ to spend whatever is needed on a refurbishment to extend the life of the plant beyond the end of its design life in 2024. But is it really worth expanding on the station? Clyde Mallinson, Independent Energy Analyst speaks to us to answer. Kaya 959 Website
Two years post pandemic- SMMEs are reeling from the impact that COVID has had on their businesses. It’s time to consider how they can be given a break in order to expedite their recovery- SAB’s VP of Corporate Affairs Zoleka Lisa implores government to give SMMEs along its value chain a tax break. Fatsani Banda, Economist and Excise Specialist at SAB joins us to discuss. Kaya 959 Website
The President has given effect to the 2021 tax proposals by signing three tax Acts into law. In January, the President gave his assent to the Rates and Monetary Amounts and Amendment of Revenue Laws (“Rates Act”), the Taxation Laws Amendment (“TLAA”) and the Tax Administration Laws Amendment (“TALAA”). Thomas Lobban, Tax Associate At Tax Consulting SA explains what this means for us. Kaya 959 Website
As we head towards the National Budget Speech on 23 February, all eyes are on government to find a way to lower petrol prices, and perhaps even more importantly, to delineate how they will review how the latest petrol price was calculated. How will the latest petrol price hike affect consumers? · Consumer sentiment is that they are being fleeced at the pumps. People deserve to know how the latest fuel price hike has been calculated. What is your view on this? Kaya 959 Website
Dr Andrew Dickson Executive: Engineering at CBI Electric joins us to discuss the rise in home automation and why it’s becoming so popular, some of the top home automation trends in 2022, and how South Africans can automate their homes. Kaya 959 Website
South African consumers are sinking deeper into debt. The overall debt to annual net income ratio across all income bands reached its highest level ever at the end of 2021, according to the latest DebtBusters report. Kaya 959 Website
A stay away by foreign drivers is planned for this week but the association said that there were no demonstrations on Monday. The drivers want to protest over the attacks by locals who want them to be replaced by South Africans.The Road Freight Association said that contingency measures were in place even though no disruptions had been reported during the anticipated foreign truck drivers' strike. To give us more information on the matter, Gavin Kelly, CEO of the Road Freight Association Kaya 959 Website
The South Africa Post Office has launched an online service for the renewal of motor vehicle licences from any online device. The full renewal process, including payment, will be done online, leaving only the last step of accessing the actual disc. Nomkhitha Mona, CEO of the SA Post Office speaks to us about this latest development. Kaya 959 Website
As of today, the 01st of February 2022, the Property Practitioners Act (PPA) comes into effect replacing the outdated 1976 Estate agency affairs act 112, including positive changes that will protect and benefit consumers as well as the property industry as a whole. But what does that mean for us? Nthato Raboshaga, a Property Expert, wealth coach & CEO of Wealth Creation Network joins us to answer those questions. Kaya 959 Website
Old Mutual has succeeded in having the R250m damages claim lodged against it by former CEO Peter Moyo thrown out with costs, due to a lack of evidence that it had done anything wrong. To give us more details on the case, we are joined by Tabby Tsengiwe, General Manager for Group Marketing, Public Affairs & Sustainability at Old Mutual. Kaya 959 Website
The Covid-19 pandemic has ignited a spirit of entrepreneurship which has led to an increase in the number of resilient South Africans starting side hustles, either to supplement their income, or create an additional source of income. Once your next big business idea has been identified or even tested, the next question to ask yourself is, “Should I register my side hustle?” Kaya 959 Website
Human beings are multifaceted and so should your career journey. Monetising your career is rooted in the concept of viewing yourself as a business rather than an employee. Organisations are no longer looking for employees, they are looking for partners that can help them realise their overall strategy and increase their bottom line. Hetty The Entrepreneur, A Business and Monetisation Guru gives us tips to monetize your skills. Kaya 959 Website
The average South African household is consuming more goods and services and is still spending most of its money on housing, food and transport. That is according to Statistics South Africa's newly published changes to the average South African household’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) basket of goods and the new weights for the CPI. Patrick Kelly, Chief Director Responsible for Price Statistics and StatsSA discusses these changes and why they could be. Kaya 959 Website
Fraud continues to pose the risk of serious financial losses for banking customers. All indicators are pointing towards the fact that there are new scams and an increasing number of the victims. Kwanda Vabaza , Adjudicator at Ombudsman For Banking Services gives us tips about what to watch out for. Kaya 959 Website
After two weeks of hearings, the Gauteng Local Division of the High Court on Monday found in favour of Old Mutual in dismissing the damages case brought against it by former CEO Peter Moyo. In his judgment, the Honourable Mr Justice Wright found that Mr Moyo had failed to produce any evidence on which it could be held that Old Mutual did anything wrongful in connection with the termination of Mr Moyo’s employment in June 2019. Zwelakhe Mnguni, Chief Investment Officer & Co-Founder at Benguela Global Fund Managers joins us to discuss the case. Kaya 959 Website
Technology is key to helping small businesses grow, and therefore improve our overall economic outlook in a post-covid world. Cloud accounting platforms take away the stress of year end and will give your business peace of mind. It can help free businesses to focus on the most important things. Colin Timmis, Country Manager for Xero South Africa talks to us about this innovation, why adopting technology and using Digital tools is so important for small businesses, and more. Kaya 959 Website
For most homeowners with bonds, the interest rate hike announced by the Reserve Bank today will mean paying extra on their monthly repayments. Mfundo Mabaso, FNB Home Finance Growth Head tells us how much more we can expect to pay on our bonds after the latest interest rate hike. Kaya 959 Website
The latest increase in the repo will no doubt have dire consequences for South Africans who are already struggling to pay off debt. An increased repo rate also means an increased cost of living, especially for South Africans who are paying bonds and have been reaping the benefits of an unchanged repo rate for two years. Kaya 959 Website
When you join a medical scheme or gap cover, it is important to understand that waiting periods may apply to the cover. These depend on how long of a break there has been in your cover as well as how long you have had cover for, along with other factors. To understand what waiting periods may apply, and importantly, why medical schemes and insurers have them, we speak to Wendy Bussey, Business Development At Turnberry Management Risk Solutions. Kaya 959 Website
The repo rate has increased by 25 basis points to 4%. Reserve Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago today announced the MPC's decision in Pretoria. He said inflation was a problem driven by higher oil and food prices. To discuss the recent hike, we speak to Mpho Molopyane, an RMB Economist. Kaya 959 Website
Following the release of the 2021 matric results, young people across South Africa are considering their options. Between a record-high unemployment rate and limited capacity universities, matriculants eager to join the workforce right away, need to be creative when it comes to finding a job. To discuss what is next for matrics, we are joined by Luan Dreyden, who works as a teacher trainer at the TEFL Academy. Kaya 959 Website
Experienced financial services industry leader Lulu Rasebotsa joined life insurer FMI, a division of Bidvest Life, as its first female chief executive in October 2021. She joined FMI from Liberty Life Botswana, where she was managing director for the past 10 years. We discuss her passion for the financial industry, the importance of women in top positions in the industry, and more. Kaya 959 Website
The Department of Employment and Labour (DEL) has raised concerns around illegal recruitment practices in South Africa – including the hiring of immigrant foreign workers who are not in the country lawfully. To address these and other issues, the department said it has developed a new National Labour Migration Policy and proposed amendments to the existing Employment Services Act. Osborne Molatudi, Employment Law Specialist & Managing Director of Molatudi Attorneys joins us to discuss. Kaya 959 Website
As you are probably aware, yesterday the CCMA delivered a landmark decision in the ongoing debate surrounding COVID-19 vaccinations in the workplace. An employee took their former employer to the CCMA as the employee had been dismissed for employee for incapacity as they had refused a COVID-19 vaccination. The Commissioner found in favour of the employee. Jonathan Goldberg, Joint-CEO of Global Business Solutions gives us more information on the case. Kaya 959 Website
Telkom's adventures into African markets have come back to haunt it with President Cyril Ramaphosa ordering the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to probe some of the investments undertaken by the company in parts of continent over 13 years ago. Jon Tullett, Senior Research Manager at IDC SA. Kaya 959 Website
The usual holiday cheer and festivities made a comeback over December 2021 as the latest take-home pay data from BankservAfrica shows more part-time and temporary workers were employed compared to December 2020. Mike Schüssler, Chief Economist at economists.co.za joins us to discuss what could have caused change. Kaya 959 Website
After 10 years in the aviation industry as a flight attendant for SA Express, Annette Skaap has taken off to pursue her aspirations to venture into business, becoming a hotelier with the first luxury hotel to open in a township in South Africa. We talk about her rise from flight attendant to opening a hotel, what keeps her going, and more. Kaya 959 Website
The latest data reveals that competition amongst the major banks continues to surge. Home loan approval rates were up by 3.1% from Q4 of 2020 and the average interest rate received by home applicants was prime less 0.21% (19 basis points lower than Q4). According to statistics from ooba, South Africa’s foremost home loan comparison service, competition amongst the major banks for a bigger share of the home loan market remained fierce during the fourth quarter of 2021 (Q4 21). Marius Tinney-Crook, Regional Sales Manager for ooba Group joins us to talk more about the data. Kaya 959 Website
We get commentary on SARB (South African Reserve Bank) and the MPC ahead of the next meeting on Thursday, and The World Bank loan to the South African government for its fight against Covid-19 with Jeff Schultz, Senior Economist at BNP Paribas South Africa Kaya 959 Website
Statistics South Africa said that it will spend R3.2 billion on the nationwide population and housing census scheduled for next month. The entity is targeting 17 million households to collect demographic data for the next census. Risenga Maluleke, Statistician-General and Head Of Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) gives us more information. Kaya 959 Website
According to property experts, the accelerated switch to remote working over the past two years and the resulting “great migration” from big cities to smaller country and coastal towns is also driving a significant increase in the number of people who are buying stands and building their own homes. How high is the demand for land? And how important is the stand on which a house is built? To answer these questions and more, we are joined by Mohau Motaung, Broker/Owner Of Re/Max Ebenezer. Kaya 959 Website
Today’s release of Transparency International’s 2021 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) reveals that South Africa, along with many other countries in the world, has reached a virtual standstill in its efforts to curb corruption, as human rights abuses and the erosion of democracy flourish. Melusi Ncala, Senior Researcher Corruption Watch talks to us about potential reasons for why corruption in still so prevalent today. Kaya 959 Website
It’s the start of a new year and you have promised yourself that this year you will be better with your personal administration. How about achieving this goal and getting some “free” money at the same time. It is retirement annuity season and Rita Cool, Certified Financial Planner at Alexander Forbes Individual Consulting gives us tips on how to make the most of our retirement savings this season. Kaya 959 Website
The year 2021 could have been a breeze for the global economy, were it not for supply chain disruptions that saw everything from rubber and food to semiconductors and Christmas stocking fillers not only cost much more, but also take significantly longer to reach their destinations. Dr. Azar Jammine, Director and Chief Economist Of Econometrix Joins us to discuss how this will affect the future of the global supply chain in 2022. Kaya 959 Website
While Covid certainly escalated the shift to online working, the reality is that we were inching towards this point long before the pandemic started. The businesses that were able to adapt to the pandemic the best were those that had already identified the benefits of flexible, adaptable working environments. As we take a longer term view of the changes we’ve witnessed over the past few years, we need to ask ourselves: what’s next? Looking ahead, what are some of the key workplace trends we are likely to see? Kaya 959 Website
The Western Cape High Court has approved Steinhoff's bid to have its R25 billion settlement proposal made final and binding. After months of intense litigation, the case was wrapped up in less than half an hour on Monday morning, with Judge Rosheni Allie ruling that she could find no reason to not grant Steinhoff's request. We speak to Zwelakhe Mnguni, Chief Investment Officer & Co-Founder At Benguela Global Fund Managers to make sense of the impact of the decision. Kaya 959 Website
Offices are opening again, but the challenge is now to convince more people to return to them instead of working from home. Linda Trim, director at Giant Leap, one of South Africa’s largest workplace design consultancies, says that while some companies have mandated workers return to the office at least a few days a week, others have reopened on a voluntary basis. Kaya 959 Website
Should it be employees or employers who sponsor career advancement? Who benefits more from career advancement, employees, or employers? To answer these questions and more, we are joined by Vumile Msweli, CEO of Hesed Consulting and Career Coach. Kaya 959 Website
Woolworths has warned that its headline earnings will fall by between 30% and 40% for the 26 weeks to end 26 December, compared to the same period in the previous year. Sales fell by 2.1%, and company says that trade was "severely impacted" by the extended lockdowns in Australia and by the civil unrest in South Africa. To give us further updates, Chris Gilmour, an investment analyst joins us on the line. Kaya 959 Website
Traders around the globe are always looking for the best broker to trade forex, CFDs, binary options, stocks, cryptocurrencies, etc. With new forex brokers popping up constantly, determining the legitimacy of a broker can be a real challenge. As a consumer, it is vital to research a company before depositing money to trade. Owen Nkomo, Founder of Inkunzi Emnyama Investments gives us tips to look out for trading scams. Kaya 959 Website
We've heard it a thousand times before: "Digital marketing is constantly changing". And it’s true: in 2021 Facebook alone issued over 40 updates. In an attempt to keep up with these changes – and to learn more about what we can expect in the digital marketing space this year – we speak to Fadi Sader, a digital and strategic expert at Wavemaker South Africa. Kaya 959 Website
The Witwatersrand University (Wits) appointed former GCIS head Themba Maseko as director at its School of Governance. Maseko is the unit’s new executive director of education. Maseko was one of the earliest casualties of the state capture project under former president Jacob Zuma's administration. We speak to him to find out more about his journey. Kaya 959 Website
Loyiso Tyira, MD at ICT Chamber talks to us about how the Vodacom CEO Shameel Joosub has warned that the impending court battle over the country’s much-anticipated spectrum auction will significantly impact the economy if it is not resolved urgently. We discuss the implications when ICASA auctions the International mobile telecoms (IMT) spectrum to big mobile network operators (MNOs) and more. Kaya 959 Website
As we inch into 2022, most are relieved to be seeing the back of 2021. With the New Year comes an inevitable time of introspection – and maybe even some resolutions. As part of a poll, 58% of participants said the pandemic prompted them to prioritise their physical and mental wellbeing. 26% of South Africans started budgeting. Now may be the moment to lean on these lessons as inspiration for 2022’s New Year’s resolutions. Dr Nozi Nyawose, Clinical Psychologist joins us to discuss how to go about setting goals and resolutions this year. Kaya 959 Website
With the IEB matric results released and the NSC results to be released on Friday, I would like to put forward the following topic for your consideration: Insights into the matric results and the implications for the future of SA’s human capital and the business environment. Kaya 959 Website
South African consumers may suffer from higher food prices in the near future. Domestic farmers are exasperated by excessive rainfall damaging their crops, but the exact impact on plantings and crops is yet to be determined. We discuss climate change’s impact on our agriculture sector. Kaya 959 Website
Business confidence among SA owners of small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) plummeted in the third quarter of 2021 as unfavourable economic conditions were worsened by load-shedding, high fuel prices and the Covid-19 pandemic. Kaya 959 Website
Former Orlando Pirates star Lucky Lekgwathi started the new year on a high note, as he celebrated the reopening of his restaurant which was looted and destroyed during the July unrest last year. Legkwathi moved his joint from Kliptown in Soweto to Southdale Mall. Kaya 959 Website
The Department of Basic Education announced that the usual practice of publishing matric results on media platforms will not take place for the 2021 results, because the dissemination of learners’ personal information would be in contravention of the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA). Nadine Mather, Senior Associate At Bowmans speaks to us about the ins and outs of what is allowed under POPIA. Kaya 959 Website
Consumer inflation rose to its highest level in five years in December, backing the case for a potential increase in interest rates as soon as next Thursday when the Reserve Bank’s monetary policy committee (MPC) sits down for its first scheduled meeting of 2022. Isaah Mhlanga, Chief Economist at Alexander Forbes speaks to us about the possibilities of interest rates increasing. Kaya 959 Website
While most of the commercial property sector has suffered fatal blows over the past year, self-storage remains resilient. In South Africa, more and more self-storage facilities are popping up, more land and vacant industrial sites are being purchased and tenant repayments are currently outperforming all other commercial property sectors. What’s driving the industry’s demand? John Jack, CEO of Galetti Corporate Real Estate joins us to discuss the rise in self-storage. Kaya 959 Website
Even when they have a written lease, tenants are often uncertain about what their monthly rent includes, especially if they are renting a flat or townhouse in a sectional title complex. Nthato Raboshaga, a Property Analyst talks to us about what to check in terms of rent before you sign a lease, how rental payments work, and more. Kaya 959 Website
The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) has warned companies against introducing mandatory vaccination policies, which it says risks infringing the Constitutional rights of workers. Javu Baloyi, Spokesperson at the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE). Kaya 959 Website
QR codes are seen as an easy tool for cybercriminals, as people are eager to scan them to see what is revealed. They may be a tool that is used more often now to streamline payments and a fun way to share information. If you think about it, QR codes are similar to opening a suspicious link without warning on if it is safe or not. Simeon Tassev, MD and QSA at Galix. Kaya 959 Website
NJ Ayuk, an Energy Expert and CEO Of Centurion Law Group talks to us about how Brent oil traded near the highest intraday level since 2014 as the market tightened and concerns about the impact of omicron eased. Futures in London held at about $86 a barrel after a fourth weekly advance on Friday, with gains tempered by signs of slowing Chinese economic growth. Kaya 959 Website
Your financial plan needs to sponsor and propel your career path, and your career path needs to enable your financial plan. Just as your career is often a major contributor to your income which makes up the backbone of your financial plan; the amount you allocate to career advancement in your financial plan has a direct relationship with how you can be positioned to earn higher in your career. Career Coach & CEO Of Hesed Consulting, Vumile Msweli gives us a few tips. Kaya 959 Website
We focus on how stokvels can register easyequities, crypto etc, a shift towards investment-focused stokvels, and lots more with Palesa Lengolo, a Finance Professional, Educator and Investor. Kaya 959 Website
According to Stats SA, education fees increased by 4.1% in 2021, compared to 6.4% in 2020. Primary and secondary school fees increased by 2.5% and 4.3% respectively in 2021 (compared with 7.3% and 7.6% in 2020). While many parents will have enjoyed a temporary reprieve, as 2021 annual increases were the lowest in 30 years, education remains extremely expensive. Add the unexpected costs, and parents could battle to keep up. Shafeeka Anthony, Marketing Manager of justmoney.co.za speaks to us about tips for how to plan for these costs. Kaya 959 Website
We look at the deep impact that doing good has on the life of a volunteer, with the aim of encouraging others to get involved in volunteerism. Reagan Meyer, Lesedi Spirit Of Volun-Teering’ Award Winner, Founding Director At Training4changes, and Management Accountant At Metropolita. Kaya 959 Website
Mesela Nhlapo is Chief Executive Officer of the African Rail Industry Association, having headed its predecessor, the Rail Road Association of South Africa. Holding a BCom in Marketing and an LLB degree, she has more than 20 years of experience in manufacturing and technical business development. She joins us on the line to discuss her career, and the future of freight rail in South Africa. Kaya 959 Website
What are your financial goals for this year? Maybe you are planning to pay off all your loan, get a car, buy a house, start buying stocks, investing in your children’s education? The National Credit Regulator (NCR) encourages consumers to make savings one of their New Year’s resolutions in order to avoid borrowing all the time and to avoid over-indebtedness. Jimmy Golele, Senior Education and Communication Officer at The NCR gives us more tops to help our finances. Kaya 959 Website
Often working alone from home, call center agents play a vital role in keeping customers informed, easing their anxieties and supporting the organizations they represent. A customer experience survey carried out by BPO provider, Merchants, found that the number of consumers who requested helpful call centre agents and praised them to their managers in 2021 increased compared to 2020. Kaya 959 Website
As we are heading towards the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland taking place between 17 and 21 January 2022 Spiros Fatouros, CEO of Marsh Africa joins us on the line to discuss the Global Risk Report and the outcomes highlighted in the report and what it means for SA. Kaya 959 Website
Whether you’re leading a business or a business unit, or working as a freelancer, mastering business strategy is key to your success. And the end of a year and the start of a new one is a great time to create or revisit your strategy. Tara Turkington, CEO Of Flow Communications gives tips to help you with the process. Kaya 959 Website
Some young people feel social pressure to own iPhones so they have full access to Apple's messaging service iMessage, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal. When iPhone users exchange messages using iMessage they appear in blue bubbles, whereas messages sent to iPhones from users of Google's Android mobile operating system appear in green. Bryan Turner, Data Anaylts At Worldwide Worx talks to us about how possible it is. Kaya 959 Website
Peter Manjor, Veteran Mining Engineer, Fund Manager And Analyst speaks to us about the things to consider when starting a coal transportation business, the daily demands in the industry, and lots more. Kaya 959 Website
At first, Mothupi Kgopa started buying calculators for the pupils who didn't have them. But soon the exercise became too pricy and he realised that was the reason his pupils were struggling with getting calculators, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. This is what inspired him to launch his own scientific calculator brand - Geleza. Geleza is is an educational products company founded by Mothupi that seeks to provide proudly South African products to learners in the country. He joins us on air for more. Kaya 959 Website
The Department of Employment of Labour has called for comment on a new minimum wage target for South Africa in 2022. Under the National Minimum Wage (NMW) Act, the National Minimum Wage Commission annually assesses and reviews the minimum wage. The minister of Employment and Labour, Thulas Nxesi, then determines an adjustment based on these recommendations. Osborne Molatudi, Employment Law Specialist & Managing Director of Molatudi Attorney speaks to us for more. Kaya 959 Website
The state has spent more than R14bn on public servants who have taken sick or incapacity leave since the outbreak of Covid-19, highlighting the enormous cost of the pandemic. This was revealed by public service and administration minister Ayanda Dlodlo in a written parliamentary response published this week. Andrew Levy, Labour Expert And Founder Of Andrew Levy Employment talks to us about the true cost of leave. Kaya 959 Website
MTN has been named the best mobile network in South Africa in the MyBroadband Insights annual 2021 Mobile Network Quality Report. The report ranks South Africa’s mobile networks and awards the best network in each major city. MTN reigned supreme in all major South African cities, with one exception - Vodacom had the best network in East London. The report is based on 1.35 million results from MyBroadband’s Speed Test App, which were recorded between January 1, 2021 and December 31, 2021. MyBroadband’s Jan Vermeulen discusses which network we should be leaning to. Kaya 959 Website
Globally, there are now more than 15 000 cryptocurrencies available with a total market value of over R48 trillion. With the technology gaining increased adoption and new use cases being found, there’s certainly no sign of this growth slowing down. However, as with most things, there have been different waves of adoption. If you weren’t an early adopter and are potentially regretting not getting in earlier, fear not, it’s not too late. Gaurav Nair, Co-Founder of Alternatives Investments firm, Jaltech gives us tips for investing in crypto in 2022. Kaya 959 Website
Settling your home loan account is a huge financial accomplishment. However, your home loan account is not closed automatically once you have paid up your home loan – a bond cancellation process needs to be followed. Matseleng Mogodi, a Principal Estate Agent At Snooks Estates joins us to discuss. Kaya 959 Website
In some parts of the world, a shortage of potatoes is causing a French fries crisis. The South African agricultural sector in 2021 experienced harsh, icy weather, which affected potato harvests and compromised the quality of cultivars used to make slap chips and crisps. We discuss how SA affected by this, and what this means for business, especially restaurants with Lunathi Hlakanyane, an Agri-Tech And Economics Blogger. Kaya 959 Website
Do you know that fore-thinking and fore-planning helps you get to your destination faster and more efficiently? As we are starting the New Year, it’s important to give your their career planning a thought. Vumile Msweli, CEO Of Hesed Consulting And Career Coach. Kaya 959 Website
Stakeholders have until Friday (January 14) to submit written comments to energy regulator Nersa on Eskom tariffs that may increase by more than 40%, according to Nersa’s latest pro forma implementation plans. Ted Blom A Senior Energy, Mining, And Commodities Strategist And Tactician, joins us to discuss this topic. Kaya 959 Website
The SA Union of Students (SAUS) has not ruled out national student protests in its efforts to reject the move by the country’s universities to enforce mandatory Covid-19 vaccination. Kaya 959 Website
Specialist recruitment firm Michael Page has published its latest salary guide, showing what skilled professionals in 150 different jobs in South Africa can expect to earn in 2022. Although South Africa has one of the highest unemployment rates in the world, the Page Group said it experienced a sharp increase in recruitment assignments in 2021 compared to the previous year. Paul Newman, Operating Director For Pagegroup South Africa speaks to us about the types of jobs people are looking out for. Kaya 959 Website
JM Busha Of JM Busha Investments speaks to us about the best shares to buy, some stocks to watch, common risks to avoid and how to invest right this year. Kaya 959 Website
Ongoing concerns around the Omicron variant, electricity supply constraints, a poor jobs outlook, and material fiscal constraints do not set South Africa’s expected economic growth recovery on a good path, says Sanisha Packirisamy, economist at Momentum Investments. She joins us on the line for more. Kaya 959 Website
Between Covid-19 and social unrest, major retail outlets have taken a knock this year and will be pulling out all the stops to entice shoppers this festive season, but being vigilant about pricing and specials over December will prevent unnecessary debt at the start of the new year. Bryan Habana, PayMeNow’s Head Of Business Development talks to us about ways we can avoid our debt this festive season. Kaya 959 Website
It is now in the middle of December and some people have already retired for the holidays while others are gearing themselves up for the most deserved summer break. Unfortunately, braai budgets are expected to come under pressure as meat prices have surged to a new record high for December, underpinned by the resilient seasonal consumer demand and supply contraction. Paul Makube, Senior Agricultural Economist at FNB Agri-Business talks to us for more. Kaya 959 Website
As we run into the last two weeks of the year, a question that many prospective car buyers ask is whether it’s best to buy now or wait until the New Year. Whether you’re downgrading to a smaller car due to working from home, getting a bigger car because your family has grown, or replacing an old vehicle, there are compelling arguments either way. Ernest North, co-founder at Naked breaks down the pros and cons of buying a car this time of year. Kaya 959 Website
eWaya Technical Systems (PTY) LTD is a 100% black owned company, 51% black women owned, 51% black youth owned and an Exempted Micro Enterprise (EME). The company offers a wide range of technical and technological services to medium and large organisations. eWaya Technical Systems (PTY) LTD is a B-BBEE Level 1 contributor. The managing directors of the company are Ms Noluthando Buthelezi and Mr Pule Sabasaba, sharing financial management and operations management responsibilities respectively, they join us on the line. Kaya 959 Website
A recent poll commissioned by leading on-demand pay provider, Floatpays revealed that almost 50% of South African employers surveyed will not be issuing 13th cheques as part of their employee value proposition (EVP). This finding comes as many local companies continue to face financial pressures exacerbated by a struggling economy amidst the Covid-19 pandemic. Triya Govender , Head Of Marketing At Floatpays tells us more. Kaya 959 Website
South Africa’s largest life insurers received 22 544 death claims against fully underwritten life policies* in the 19 months between the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in March last year and the end of September 2021. While not all the claims were for policyholders who died as a result of COVID-19, five of South Africa’s largest life insurance companies reported a fourfold increase in death claims at the peak of the third wave against a book of 2.09 million fully underwritten new generation life policies. : Marc Burgess , an Actuary And member of The Actuarial Society's Continuous Statistical Investigation (CSI) Committee joins us to discuss. Kaya 959 Website
The can-do spirit of the youth and determination to penetrate the business world cannot be restricted. “Find a job or create your own business.” Is easier said than done. The Arion Power team have chosen to embrace the opportunity created by our energy crisis and created a business, jobs and prevented the loss of thousands of man hours to our online world. Student, parent, business owner in the online economy your fibre connectivity will not go down during loadshedding. Here is their story. Kaya 959 Website
It appears that the recent announcement of the repo rate hike wasn’t enough to deter residential property demand. The momentum gained over the past two years has not been experienced in decades and Grant Smee, Managing Director of Only Realty predicts that this uptick will continue well into 2022. Kaya 959 Website
Although President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed the Cybercrimes Bill into law, only parts came into effect from 1 December 2021. "It is important to spell out the dos and don'ts of the new Cybercrimes Act and it's everyone's interest to familiarise themselves the with changes," says Ryan van de Coolwijk, product head at iTOO Cyber insurance division.
South Africa jettisoned a plan that would have forced about 200 000 Zimbabweans to return home, to the satisfaction of critics who said it would have caused a humanitarian crisis. The Department of Home Affairs gave no reason for withdrawing its directive to end the Zimbabwean Exemption Permit on Monday. We speak to Victor Kgomoeswana, An Afro-Optimist, Media Commentator, Columnist, Speaker And Author. Kaya 959 Website
New daily Covid-19 cases continue to rise sharply in South Africa, with indications pointing to the introduction of new lockdown restrictions, say economists from the Bureau for Economic Research (BER). In a research note on Monday (13 December), the group said that Covid-19 cases are increasing markedly in all provinces, seemingly driven by the recently discovered Omicron-variant. Is the possibility of another lockdown with us? We speak to Professor Jannie Rossouw, Head Of School Of Economic And Business Sciences At The University Of The Witwatersrand to find out more. Kaya 959 Website
Wessel Botha, Spokesperson For Skills Development Corporation And Md For Sdc Wealth speaks to us about the most in-demand jobs in the country, and what SDC Wealth does to help develop future entrepreneurs and more jobs. Kaya 959 Website
The JSE announces today that its wholly owned subsidiary, JSE Private Placements (JPP), has obtained a financial services provider licence, which will facilitate innovation and growth in private capital raise, in both equity and debt. Kaya 959 Website
The Competition Commission says the pricing of rapid antigen tests for Covid-19 is next in its crosshairs after it reached an agreement with SA’s two largest private pathology laboratories to cut the price of PCR tests — the gold standard — by almost half. Bakhe Majenge , Chief Legal Counsel CCSA joins us to discuss. Kaya 959 Website
We've been seeing reports that SA insurers are counting excess death costs upon new Covid 19 wave. Metropolitan's reaction to this. - The COVID-19 crisis continues to have a significant impact on individuals, society, business and the wider economy across the globe. As an insurance company, how are you adapting to this change? How are you making your client's lives easy? Kaya 959 Website
Born and raised in Malawi, Bongani Chinkanda was schooled in Harare, Zimbabwe before completing a degree at Rhodes University in Grahamstown. He is a strong believer in solving client business problems, specialising in the youth and mass markets, and is passionate about bringing big ideas to the people. He has a passion for developing entrepreneurs and leaders in the CREATIVE ECONOMY We speak to him about the challenges he has faced in the process of his work. Kaya 959 Website
Auditor-General (AG) Tsakani Maluleke says there has been an incremental improvement in national and provincial departments’ audits for the 2020-2021 financial year, with an increase in the number of clean audits. Dr Tk Pooe,Senior Lecturer (Political Science And Governance) At Wits School Of Governance joins us to discuss whether this is as positive as it is on paper. Kaya 959 Website
Meta-owned messaging service WhatsApp has announced changes to disappearing messages, giving users more options around how long a message can be viewed. Messages will then automatically delete after a set interval. To discuss the ever-changing nature of the technology we use, we speak to Bryan Turner, Data Analyst At Worldwide Worx. Kaya 959 Website
Nash Dennis Manyozo is the Co-Founder and Chief Operations Officer at TNJ Projects Solutions – a provider of Electrical and Telecommunication services to power utilities, railway, mobile and fixed network operators which was established in South Africa in 2006 and has grown from strength to strength, servicing clients across Southern Africa. We speak to him about his journey. Kaya 959 Website
David (Dave) Mountain. He is one of the few entrepreneurs supporting Africans living in Africa through entrepreneurship, job creation and contributing to the continent's GDP. His latest venture is Umodzi Gin, a luxurious gin whose ingredients are sourced in 12 African countries, while branding, packaging, customer service and the actual distilling of the gin is also done around the continent. Dave joins us to discuss his latest business venture. Kaya 959 Website
A local entrepreneur has initiated a virtual e-hailing platform for bakkies and trucks to enable users to hail commercial vehicles electronically. According to Mcebo Vilakati, so far, 125 vehicles in the Midrand, Johannesburg, Centurion and Pretoria areas are available on Palanto, which allows customers to book a trip by choosing pick-up and drop off locations. We speak to him for more insight. Kaya 959 Website
When Mpho Phuku’s family experienced four break-ins, she decided that enough was enough. After calling a company that installed her security system, Phuku saw this as an opportunity to give residents in her township peace of mind knowing that they were safe. Phuku now owns The Lioness Security Services and Lioness Lock and Key. We speak to her about her company on the line. Kaya 959 Website
The Department of Employment and Labour introduced the Consolidated Direction on Health and Safety in Certain Workplaces on 11 June 2021. Effectively, it permits employers to introduce a mandatory vaccination policy provided certain conditions are met. Jacqui Reed, Employment Lawyer And Senior Associate At Herbert Smith Freehills gives us more insight. Kaya 959 Website
The South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Sacci) Business Confidence Index (BCI) declined by 2.1 index points to 92.8 in November, after having recovered slightly to 94.9 index points in October. Alan Mukoki, SACCI CEO joins us to discuss the reasons for business confidence declining. Kaya 959 Website
Grant Field, Fedgroup CEO talks to us about an opportunity for investors on Fedgroup’s Impact Farming platform to invest in the first tranche of over 500 lettuce stacks in a sustainable facility in Pretoria. Kaya 959 Website
The investment by the Millat Group in South Africa in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic sends a powerful statement of the group’s commitment to revitalise the tourism sector in the country and complements the provincial government’s blueprint to revive high growth sectors. Hamza Farooqui, Ceo Of Millat Investments joins us to discuss. Kaya 959 Website
Lisa Seftel, Executive Director Of The National Economic Development And Labour Council (NEDLAC) talks to us about how stakeholders at NEDLAC have agreed that mandatory vaccinations in the workplace should be strengthened to prevent the further spread of Covid-19 and heightened lockdown regulations. NEDLAC is a policy formulation body that includes representatives from the government, business, labour, and communities. Kaya 959 Website
After recording four consecutive quarters of positive growth, real gross domestic product (GDP) slumped by 1.5%, eroding some of the economic gains the country has made since the severe impact of Covid-19 in the second quarter of 2020. Sanisha Packirisamy, Economist At Momentum Investments discusses why this could be the case. Kaya 959 Website
Owners of buildings in South Africa have exactly one year left to obtain and prominently display an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) or risk a fine of R5 million, five years imprisonment or both. Barry Bredenkamp, Sanedi General Manager For Energy Efficiency joins us to tell us more. Kaya 959 Website
Tyme, one of the fastest growing digital banking groups globally, has successfully secured investments from Tencent and CDC to complete its $180 million (R2.86 billion) Series B capital raise. The investment from Tencent and CDC is pegged at an additional $70 million. Kaya 959 Website
The alcohol industry has warned of possible trade restrictions during the festive season as South Africa has officially entered the fourth wave of the Covid-19 pandemic driven by the new Omicron variant as the hospitality industry called on President Cyril Ramaphosa not to lock down the country. The Beer Association of South Africa (BASA) on Friday launched a High Court review application to declare three previous bans irrational, invalid and set them aside. Patrica Pillay, CEO Of The Beer Association Of SA. Kaya 959 Website
2021 was another year for the crypto record books, with the total market cap of the sector surging nearly 300% over the last 12 months. Petri Redelinghuys- Founder Of Herenya Capital Advisors talks to us about crypto’s future prospects. Kaya 959 Website
Arnoux Maré, Managing Director At Innovative Learning Solutions joins us to discuss the hundreds of truck drivers that have staged a massive blockade on national routes between the Durban harbour and along the N3 Van Reenen’s Pass as part of an ongoing dispute against the employment of foreign truck drivers. Kaya 959 Website
The issue of mandatory vaccinations is coming to head in South Africa as government, businesses and civil society groups square up around the issue of compulsory jabs. While these mandates are only expected to be introduced in early 2022, a number of businesses have already taken steps to introduce mandatory vaccination policies. Osborne Molatudi, Md &Employment Labour Law Specalist At Molatudi Attorneys joins us to discuss. Kaya 959 Website
The Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) urges all financial customers to exercise vigilance and be cautious when paying for purchases either in-store or online. By doing so, you will be able keep your income, assets and investments safe from scammers. Sindiswa Makhubalo, Head Of Banks And Payment Providers Department At The FSCA tells us what to look out for, and more. Kaya 959 Website
Professional services firm PwC has published its latest economic outlook for South Africa, including forecast scenarios for the country’s lockdown levels and their likely impact on the economy. Christie Viljoen, PwC Economist discusses what we can expect, and more. Kaya 959 Website
Dr Abongile Qamata, Lead and Advanced Specialist for Alternatives to Hospitalisation at the AfroCentric Group, is the pioneer in healthcare that the world desperately needs right now. Dr Qamata is exploring a safe, patient-centric and cost-effective solution to healthcare delivery – moving us away from expensive hospital facilities that drive escalating costs without commensurate increase in clinical outcomes. We speak to her for more. Kaya 959 Website
As we quickly find ourselves heading into the busy rush of the festive season, with the omicron covid-19 variant rearing its head and many South African consumers planning their December travel plans back to their homes from cities where they work - what does this mean for consumer spending, saving and taking into account January and going back to school for most families. Tumelo Chaka, Tuckshop Executive And Entrepreneur And Executive, With Experience In Retail & Financial Services discuss this topic with us. Kaya 959 Website
The Gauteng Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Economic Development, Environment, Agriculture and Rural Development led by the Acting Chairperson Mpapa Kanyane will convene public hearings in all 5 regions of Gauteng for members of public to make input and submission on the Gauteng Township Economic Development Bill. He joins us on the line for more. Kaya 959 Website
Pietermaritzburg-born Zamani Bhengu, 28, is the founder and CEO of AmaBhengu Fashion watches. He came from humble beginnings and has always known that he was destined for success. We speak to him to find out more about his growth with his brand. Kaya 959 Website
President Cyril Ramaphosa has chided African countries that followed their Western counterparts in banning travel to and from the region after the detection of the Omicron variant. Victor Kgomoeswana an Afro-Optimist, Media Commentator, Columnist, Speaker and Author joins us to discuss. Kaya 959 Website
New research by the business management platform, Xero SA, has revealed that the single costliest mistake for small business owners over the last 12 months came to R91,311. Four-fifths (80%) of small business owners are calling for greater advice and support to help avoid mistakes in future. To give us more information, Colin Timmis, Country Manager At Xero SA joins us. Kaya 959 Website
With the current spike in Covid-19 cases and newly identified Omicron variant, there has been much debate around super-spreader events that are taking place around the country now, and for the duration of the festive season. Do the organisers of these events face liability, should there be a Covid-19 outbreak linked to their events? Mtho Maphumelo, Senior Associate at Adams & Adams, unpacks the possible risks for event organisers, and recourse for affected attendees at the event. Kaya 959 Website
After a turbulent time in the pandemic, the past few months has seen the Gauteng Enterprise Propeller (GEP) undergoing some very positive changes with a new focus and is strengthened to deliver increased impact on the economy. Plans to strengthen governance practices within the organisation, strategy to propel the GEP to reach its promised potential, and details on how the GEP has supported SMMEs in the last financial year. Saki Zamxaka, Gauteng Enterprise Propeller (GEP). Kaya 959 Website
Dr Azar Jammine, Director and Chief Economist At Econometrix joins us to discuss South Africa could introduce a new Covid-19 vaccine passport system at the start of 2022, with restrictions on accessing public services and places of employment. Kaya 959 Website
In today’s ever-evolving world, standing still means falling behind. This rings true to BrandsEye’s latest South African Banking Sentiment Index, which reveals local banks that failed to up the ante over the past year were surpassed by more innovative competitors. Lyndsey Duff, Brandseye's Business Development Director talks to us for more insight. Kaya 959 Website
South Africans will pay more than R20 a litre for petrol from Wednesday (1 December), adding further pressure to strained finances over the holiday season. According to Automobile Association’s spokesperson Layton Beard the latest fuel price effectively equates to a R2 increase in two months after the petrol price increased by R1.21 in November and 81 cents in December. Layton Beard joins us. Kaya 959 Website
South Africa's unemployment rate reached a record 34.9% for the third quarter - half a percentage point higher than in the second quarter. Risenga Maluleke, Statistician-General And Head Of Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) talks to us to discuss reasons why this could be, and what we can do to turn things around, and Ravin Naidoo, CEO Of Youth Employment Service (Yes) gives us his reaction to the unemployment stats. Kaya 959 Website
Credit bureau TPN says that tenant demand for rental property in the third quarter of 2021 remains weak. Michelle Dickens, Chief Executive Officer Of TPN Credit Bureau joins us to discuss the factors that are affecting the rental property industry. Kaya 959 Website
As international travelers cancel their holiday plans to South Africa, the tourism sector is now pinning its hopes on local travel but warns that more is needed to survive. There are fears that travel bans placed on South Africa by some in the international community following the detection of the Omicron COVID-19 variant could have a devastating impact on the sector. We speak to Tshifhiwa Tshivhengwa, CEO Of the Tourism Business Council of South Africa. Kaya 959 Website