Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site.

# South African Business Matters

Unite. Engage. Progress. Join the conversation!

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Why Protecting Financial Talent Matters More Than Ever in the Age of AI](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-protecting-financial-talent-matters-more-than-ever-in-the-age-of-ai/) - South Africa’s financial sector has long served as a vital gateway for young talent. Banks, insurers, and investment firms have traditionally absorbed the best and brightest graduates, offering structured programmes with roles where junior professionals mastered the fundamentals of the trade before advancing. This model has been central to developing future executives in one of
- [The rule of law and competitiveness: Insights for South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-rule-of-law-and-competitiveness-insights-for-south-africa/) - Author: Ginen Moodley, Moodley Attorneys Inc. What makes an economy competitive? This was a question asked by Arturo Bris, director of the IMD World Competitiveness Center as part of the release of the 2026 “IMD World Competitiveness Booklet”. Bris points to the obvious factors including costs, scale, access to infrastructure and technology or market access
- [FPI and Financial Advice New Zealand form international partnership to strengthen financial planning profession](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/fpi-and-financial-advice-new-zealand-form-international-partnership-to-strengthen-financial-planning-profession/) - The Financial Planning Institute of Southern Africa (FPI) and Financial Advice New Zealand (FANZ) have formed a new international partnership designed to strengthen professional standards, share expertise and create new opportunities for financial planning professionals across Southern Africa and New Zealand. The partnership was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed at Financial Advice
- [Building Stronger Local Economies Through Youth Partnerships](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/building-stronger-local-economies-through-youth-partnerships/) - Youth unemployment and social inequality remain among South Africa’s biggest and most persistent challenges. Yet no single programme, organisation or sector can solve them alone. While many interventions focus on individual solutions such as skills training, sport, education or job placement, Safe-Hub Founder, Florian Zech, believes the greatest catalyst for lasting change is partnership. Since
- [Should Private Placement be the preferred option?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/should-private-placement-be-the-preferred-option/) - By: Wayne Smith, Head of Corporate Note Placements at Prescient Securities Private placements have long played an important role in corporate funding strategies, with the market evolving significantly over the past two decades to create new opportunities while also introducing potential challenges for participants. In this article, a private placement refers broadly to the privately
- [When to use AI at university - and when not to](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/when-to-use-ai-at-university-and-when-not-to/) - Featuring insights from Brad Latilla-Campbell, country manager at Crimson Education South Africa’s conversation around AI in education is loud, contested, and far from settled. But while that debate plays out, students applying to international universities are navigating a more immediate concern. Unlike local applications, which do not require a personal essay, institutions in the United
- [South African Business Funding Guide & Directory 2026](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-african-business-funding-guide-directory-2026/) - Executive summary Securing business funding is not about applying everywhere. It is about aligning three things: your funding need, your stage of business growth, and your level of funding readiness. When these elements align with the right funding provider, the path to capital becomes clearer, faster and significantly more achievable. South Africa offers a
- [Rise of the Chief Growth Officer : versatile C-suite leaders in high demand](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/rise-of-the-chief-growth-officer-versatile-c-suite-leaders-in-high-demand/) - Rapid market change, technological disruption, and economic pressures are causing South African companies to no longer be content with incremental improvements to their core operations. To unlock new avenues for growth, businesses are increasingly diversifying by entering adjacent markets and exploring innovative models. This strategic pivot is seeing an increasing demand for a new breed
- [Small Business Market Trends: How Digital Transformation Is Helping Enterprises Grow in Competitive Markets](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/small-business-market-trends-how-digital-transformation-is-helping-enterprises-grow-in-competitive-markets/) - Modern businesses work in an environment filled with uncertainties. Customers are demanding efficiency and speed from them. Therefore, as a matter of course, they must assess their use of technology and working methods. Digital transformation allows small companies to meet all those needs and maintain their competitiveness. Many business organizations see digital transformation as not
- [KAYA 959 partners with Africa’s biggest Marketing Conference™ to bring the business of marketing to South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/kaya-959-partners-with-africas-biggest-marketing-conference-to-bring-the-business-of-marketing-to-south-africa/) - Station announced as the exclusive radio partner for the Nedbank IMC 2026 Johannesburg, South Africa – Kaya 959 has been announced as the exclusive radio partner of Africa’s Biggest Marketing Conference™, the Nedbank IMC 2026, marking a strategic partnership that will take the country’s most influential conversations on marketing, business and brand leadership beyond the conference
- [The AI-augmented clinician: Integrating AI, managing medical liability](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-ai-augmented-clinician-integrating-ai-managing-medical-liability/) - The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into South African healthcare is no longer a futuristic concept; it’s an active, daily reality. But how do we ensure that the doctors we’re advising leverage technology to enhance care, without surrendering their clinical accountability? Read on for a few crucial insights, advises Michael-John Damant, Managing Director of Genoa.From
- [Five Ways Young People Can Build a Career in a Changing World of Work](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/five-ways-young-people-can-build-a-career-in-a-changing-world-of-work/) - By: Kelly Smith, Talent Acquisition Manager, TransUnion GCC Africa For many young people entering the workforce today, the biggest challenge is no longer choosing a career, it is navigating a world of work that is evolving faster than ever before. Traditional career paths are giving way to new opportunities shaped by technology, changing business needs
- [From Waiting for Work to Creating It: Why South Africa Needs More Artisan Entrepreneurs](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/from-waiting-for-work-to-creating-it-why-south-africa-needs-more-artisan-entrepreneurs/) - Dr Nirmala Reddy, Head of Enterprise Development at Nedbank. South Africa’s youth unemployment crisis remains one of the defining challenges of our time. Behind the statistics are millions of young people who have done what society asked of them: they have studied, developed practical skills and prepared themselves for the world of work. Yet too
- [The AI bubble may build lasting value but businesses must avoid owning the wrong assets](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-ai-bubble-may-build-lasting-value-but-businesses-must-avoid-owning-the-wrong-assets/) - Comparisons between the artificial intelligence boom and the dotcom bubble have become increasingly common as technology companies commit unprecedented amounts of capital to chips, data centres and computing infrastructure. The comparison is not without merit. Both periods have been characterised by high expectations, rapidly increasing investment and uncertainty about whether future revenue will justify current
- [Financial pressure is a chronic household crisis](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/financial-pressure-is-a-chronic-household-crisis/) - Rising living costs overtake interest rates as South Africans report record levels of stress at home More than 70% of South Africans say they experience financial stress, driven largely by rising costs – and home life stress has reached a five-year high. These are some of the findings from DebtBusters’ 2026 Money-Stress Tracker. Attracting
- [Brand Africa CMO panel joins the Nedbank IMC 2026 line-up](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/brand-africa-cmo-panel-joins-the-nedbank-imc-2026-line-up/) - Thebe Ikalafeng leads a conversation with Khensani Nobanda and Opeyemi Lawal on African brand leadership, growth and relevance The Nedbank IMC has announced the Brand Africa CMO Panel as part of its 2026 programme, taking place on Thursday, 17 September 2026 at Mosaïek Teatro, in Johannesburg or online. Under the 2026 theme Shift Happens™, the
- [Why HR deserves a seat at the leadership table](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-hr-deserves-a-seat-at-the-leadership-table/) - By Nadia Leita, Director at Leverage Leadership “If HR cannot challenge leadership, it’s not HR. It’s damage control.” Over the years, this has become one of my strongest beliefs about the role of human resources in business. Having worked alongside leaders, executives, and HR professionals across multiple industries, I have seen firsthand how often HR
- [SA's youth unemployment is now an AI crisis](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/sas-youth-unemployment-is-now-an-ai-crisis/) - As artificial intelligence reshapes finance, enterprise technology and professional services, South African business leaders mark World Youth Skills Day with a warning: the country’s youth unemployment crisis cannot be solved without closing a parallel, faster-moving gap- – digital and AI fluency. World Youth Skills Day arrives this year against a sobering backdrop. South Africa’s youth
- [Effective Community Engagement Starts with Sustainable Partnerships](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/effective-community-engagement-starts-with-sustainable-partnerships/) - In many of South African schools, charity drives have long been the hallmark of community engagement, characterised by collecting canned food, gathering clothing, or distributing essential items to those in need. These acts of kindness remain deeply valuable, but a growing number of schools are broadening their approach, recognising that meaningful and sustainable engagement must
- [For scale-ups, the salary fight is hard to win](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/for-scale-ups-the-salary-fight-is-hard-to-win/) - As competition for skilled people becomes more global, scale-ups are being pushed to think harder about what they can offer potential employees. In a global market, skilled workers can compare local offers with remote roles, corporate packages, and high-paying international employers. “Trying to match every offer can quickly become more than your business can afford,”
- [Finance Leaders Demand AI Transparency as 71% Reject Unexplained Decisions](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/finance-leaders-demand-ai-transparency-as-71-reject-unexplained-decisions/) - New whitepaper commissioned by Sage reveals that seven in ten finance leaders will reject AI outputs they cannot explain, highlighting the need for more transparent, accountable AI. Sage, the leader in accounting, financial, HR and payroll technology for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs), today announced new research revealing that 71% of finance leaders would reject
- [Good ideas don’t die. They get killed in meetings.](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/good-ideas-dont-die-they-get-killed-in-meetings/) - Fran Luckin and Roanna Williams join the Nedbank IMC 2026 line-upThe Nedbank IMC has announced Fran Luckin and Roanna Williams, Co-Chief Creative Officers at Boundless, as speakers for its 2026 conference, taking place on 17 September 2026 at Mosaïek Teatro, Johannesburg. Under the 2026 theme Shift Happens™, Luckin and Williams will deliver The Creative Shift:
- [Why great operators don't automatically become great leaders](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-great-operators-dont-automatically-become-great-leaders/) - Many organisations invest heavily in technical capability. They strengthen systems, develop expertise and equip people to perform specific roles. But according to Dori Moreno, a growth strategist specialising in the development of individuals, teams and businesses, leadership itself is often treated as something that should happen automatically once someone receives the title. Businesses will invest
- [Retailers risk costly decisions when they fail to understand where customers really are](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/retailers-risk-costly-decisions-when-they-fail-to-understand-where-customers-really-are/) - South African retailers have access to more customer, sales and operational data than ever before. Yet many important decisions about where to open stores, how to optimise existing locations and how to respond to changing customer behaviour are still being made without a clear understanding of one critical factor: location. The challenge is that retail
- [AI will not fix what transformation has failed to build](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ai-will-not-fix-what-transformation-has-failed-to-build/) - By Nasreen Hisham, Chief Operating Officer, Prescient Investment Management South Africa’s financial services sector faces a strategic contradiction it can no longer afford to ignore. Most firms are running a transformation agenda and an AI innovation agenda simultaneously, yet the two rarely converge. The consequences of that separation are becoming measurable, and they cut both
- [The glitch in the system : Why SA universities are turning off the 'AI polygraph'](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-glitch-in-the-system-why-sa-universities-are-turning-off-the-ai-polygraph/) - By 2026, the initial panic that greeted the launch of generative AI in higher education has transitioned into a complex, high-stakes standoff. At the heart of this conflict are AI checkers – software designed to catch students using tools like ChatGPT. However, a growing number of institutions, including major South African universities, are now switching
- [The Nedbank IMC 2026 Agenda is Live](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-nedbank-imc-2026-agenda-is-live/) - A full-day programme brings together global keynotes, African CMOs, creative leaders and cultural voices The Nedbank IMC has released the agenda for its 2026 event, taking place on Thursday, 17 September 2026 at Mosaïek Teatro, Johannesburg OR Online. Under the 2026 theme Shift Happens™, the programme brings a clear point of view to a day
- [South Africa does not need more hustlers. It needs more builders](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-africa-does-not-need-more-hustlers-it-needs-more-builders/) - Paul Smith, co-founder of Civitas Every Youth Day, South Africa returns to the same familiar line: young people must become entrepreneurs. It is not wrong, and in a country with stubbornly high youth unemployment, entrepreneurship has to be a serious consideration to deal with the problem. But the line has become too easy and detached
- [Five workplace lessons every young South African should know before their first job](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/five-workplace-lessons-every-young-south-african-should-know-before-their-first-job/) - By: Xoe Mfokazi, Head of Operations, TransUnion GCC Africa According to Statistics South Africa, youth unemployment remains one of the country’s most pressing challenges, with nearly one in two young South Africans unemployed and graduate unemployment continuing to rise. This points to a gap that goes beyond education alone: a gap in workplace readiness. More
- [Corporate Wellness Week spotlights the need for year-round employee wellbeing](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/corporate-wellness-week-spotlights-the-need-for-year-round-employee-wellbeing/) - As South Africa marks Corporate Wellness Week (1-7 July), many organisations will be planning health screenings, fitness challenges, and awareness campaigns. But, while these initiatives are valuable, they also present an opportunity to ask an important question: what happens once the week is over? Rather than viewing it as a standalone event. Instead, it offers
- [How Businesses can Benefit from YES](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-businesses-can-benefit-from-yes-2/) - By Thami Mbanjeni, Y.E.S. Implementation Manager, The BEE Chamber For many companies, transformation requirements such as B-BBEE compliance are still seen as an administrative burden. The Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative challenges that perception by offering more than compliance: it provides a practical, cost-efficient tool for business growth and flexibility. In the BEE Chamber’s experience, when implemented correctly,
- [Why graduates need to start arguing with AI to land a job](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-graduates-need-to-start-arguing-with-ai-to-land-a-job/) - By Chanél Oldfield, Head of CAPACITI South Africa has one of the highest unemployment rates in the world. According to official figures from the first quarter of 2026, 32.7%, or around 8.1 million, South Africans are currently unemployed. While this reality is often described as a numbers problem – too many job seekers and too
- [The Strong Fundamentals Supporting South African Property's Recovery](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-strong-fundamentals-supporting-south-african-propertys-recovery/) - By Mahir Hamdulay, Equity Research: Head of Financials Research at Absa CIB South African commercial property has now delivered four consecutive years of positive capital growth, a milestone that would have seemed ambitious during the uncertainty that followed the pandemic. According to the MSCI South Africa Property Index, sponsored by Absa, the sector generated a
- [Rethinking Performance: Part 5 of 5 – Aligning Judgement in Performance Evaluation](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/rethinking-performance-part-5-of-5-aligning-judgement-in-performance-evaluation/) - This final article in the Rethinking Performance series, written by Camille Rabier from 21st Century, moves from principle to application. While behavioural evaluation depends largely on judgement, the challenge is finding ways to harness differences in judgement and create shared approaches to evaluation that support consistency and fairness in practice. It explores what happens when
- [AI in stockbrocking - Why co-pilot must come before autopilot](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ai-in-stockbrocking-why-co-pilot-must-come-before-autopilot/) - By: Abdur Amod, Head of Technology at Prescient Securities As financial institutions race to deploy AI agents, the debate is quickly shifting from what artificial intelligence (AI) can automate to what it should automate. In stockbroking, where every instruction carries regulatory and financial consequences, the biggest risk may not be moving too slowly but moving
- [The mattress economy: why cash savings at home persist in South Africa’s financial system](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-mattress-economy-why-cash-savings-at-home-persist-in-south-africas-financial-system/) - A significant number of South Africans continue to store their savings in cash at home despite wider access to formal banking services, highlighting ongoing trust, accessibility, and behavioural challenges in the financial system. An estimated 7.3 million South African adults remain unbanked, while nearly half of consumers continue to keep their savings in cash, according
- [Barloworld Equipment invests in South Africa’s future technicians through Caterpillar Youth Month initiative](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/barloworld-equipment-invests-in-south-africas-future-technicians-through-caterpillar-youth-month-initiative/) - With youth unemployment in South Africa remaining one of the country’s most pressing socio-economic challenges, businesses have an important role to play in creating meaningful pathways into skills development and employment. Through its ongoing partnership with Caterpillar (Cat), Barloworld Equipment is helping address this challenge by investing in technical training initiatives designed to equip young
- [Corporate South Africa rallies around volunteering as a pathway to youth employability](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/corporate-south-africa-rallies-around-volunteering-as-a-pathway-to-youth-employability/) - Corporate leaders, global volunteer organisations, youth development practitioners and technology partners gathered at Discovery’s Sandton head office for a high-level strategic dialogue focused on one of South Africa’s most urgent priorities: creating meaningful pathways for young people into the economy. Hosted by Discovery in partnership with the International Association for Volunteer Effort (IAVE), the partner
- [Youth unemployment: We already have a proven solution](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/youth-unemployment-we-already-have-a-proven-solution/) - According to the latest figures from Stats SA, approximately 3,9 million young people aged 15-24 are not in employment, education or training. That’s 37.6% (more than a third) of South Africa’s youth. For young women, the percentage sits even higher, at 39.2%. Twenty-one-year-old Anelisa is not part of that statistic. She is currently enrolled as
- [What financial resilience looks like for South Africa's growing gig workforce](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/what-financial-resilience-looks-like-for-south-africas-growing-gig-workforce/) - The gig economy in South Africa spans a wide range of work, from ride-hailing and food delivery to courier services, freelance digital work, online tutoring and home-based services booked through digital platforms. While these opportunities have opened up new income streams in a constrained labour market, income is rarely fixed and workers often operate without
- [Optimising for metrics that move your business - Are you buying media or buying attention?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/optimising-for-metrics-that-move-your-business-are-you-buying-media-or-buying-attention/) - By Natascha Torres, Head of Digital Media Strategy at iqbusiness Programmatic advertising remains one of the most powerful ways for brands to reach audiences at scale, but campaign success can sometimes appear easier to prove than it really is. Campaign dashboards often look fantastic with high reach, excellent click-through rates (CTRs) and efficient costs per
- [Beyond Coworking: Why the Future of Work is Human](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/beyond-coworking-why-the-future-of-work-is-human/) - The workplace has undergone one of the most profound transformations in modern business history. What was once defined by fixed leases and traditional office culture is rapidly giving way to a more agile, human-centric model. One where flexibility, collaboration and community are viewed as strategic business advantages rather than employee perks. Recent years have seen
- [Are you ghosting your money? Six signs it's time for a financial reset](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/are-you-ghosting-your-money-six-signs-its-time-for-a-financial-reset/) - If your relationship with money has felt a little tense lately, you’re not alone. For many South Africans, money is carrying more emotional weight than ever. Everyday expenses are competing with debt repayments, family responsibilities and long-term savings goals from retirement to education. This financial pressure is very real for most people. Recent research
- [Beyond Data: Why Growth is Still Human-led](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/beyond-data-why-growth-is-still-human-led/) - By Tafadzwa Muzuwa is the Strategy Director at Machine For the last decade, ‘data‑driven decision making’ has been treated as the gold standard for growth. Measure everything. Optimise relentlessly. Follow the numbers. And yet, despite better dashboards and more sophisticated analytics than ever before, many organisations are struggling to grow in ways that feel meaningful,
- [What smart borrowers do differently](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/what-smart-borrowers-do-differently/) - As pressure builds on household budgets, families are forced into tougher trade-offs. Food, transport, school costs and debt repayments all compete at once, making it harder to stay focused on longer-term goals when short-term needs feel urgent. One habit often separates people who stay on track financially: they have a plan. “A clear goal
- [Engen marks Youth Month with graduation of 21 new artisans](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/engen-marks-youth-month-with-graduation-of-21-new-artisans/) - Engen is proud to announce the graduation of 21 newly qualified artisans who have successfully completed an intensive three-year apprenticeship programme aimed at tackling youth unemployment and addressing South Africa’s critical skills shortage. A formal graduation ceremony was held in Durban on 10 June to honour the graduates, who began their apprenticeship journey in May
- [Why South African SMBs Lead Global Cybersecurity Investment, Yet Face a Resilience Gap](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-south-african-smbs-lead-global-cybersecurity-investment-yet-face-a-resilience-gap/) - 69% planning to boost spending but a 50% breach rate demands an urgent shift toward daily operational resilience Philip Meyer, VP Product Engineering HR & Payroll, Sage AME Small and Medium-Sized Businesses (SMBs) are the lifeblood of the South African economy, but they are operating in an increasingly hostile digital environment. With cyber-attacks becoming more
- [Why mentorship is key to unlocking young entrepreneurial potential](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-mentorship-is-key-to-unlocking-young-entrepreneurial-potential/) - The current education system is outdated, still preparing learners for an industrial-era workforce, while today’s society demands entrepreneurial thinking to enable our young people to create employment for themselves and others. Shaun Fuchs, Founder and CEO of Centennial Schools, says that entrepreneurship is key to stimulating economic growth and reducing youth unemployment – which is
- [South Africa can serve as a template for wealth management in Emerging Markets](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-africa-can-serve-as-a-template-for-wealth-management-in-emerging-markets/) - Banking groups operating in Emerging Markets can take lessons from South Africa and Brazil when it comes to building out profitable wealth management offerings. This is according to recent research released by Boston Consulting Group (BCG) as part of its 26th edition of the firms Global Wealth Report entitled: “The Great Reordering” South
- [The real shift isn't technological. It's psychological. Tahaab rais joins the Nedbank IMC 2026 line-up](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-real-shift-isnt-technological-its-psychological-tahaab-rais-joins-the-nedbank-imc-2026-line-up/) - International keynote speaker brings practical thinking on behaviour, decision-making and human motivation to Africa’s biggest marketing conference. The Nedbank IMC has announced Tahaab Rais, Group Chief Strategy Officer and Film Director at Publicis Groupe Middle East & Turkey, as an international keynote speaker for its 2026 conference, taking place on 17 September 2026 at Mosaïek,
- [Hospitality’s biggest challenge isn’t technology. It’s talent](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/hospitalitys-biggest-challenge-isnt-technology-its-talent/) - Many hospitality businesses are struggling with a long-standing challenge that the rapid adoption of AI and automation is compounding: finding and retaining the right people. AI, automated booking systems, cloud-based management platforms, smart scheduling and inventory tools – and more – are reshaping hospitality operations. And, as technology takes care of the administrative burden that
- [IRMSA warns possible Iran peace deal is relief, not risk resolution for South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/irmsa-warns-possible-iran-peace-deal-is-relief-not-risk-resolution-for-south-africa/) - The possible peace deal to end the Iran war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz may bring immediate relief to global markets, oil prices and inflation expectations, but South African organisations should not mistake a pause in hostilities for a return to normal risk conditions, the Institute of Risk Management South Africa (IRMSA) has warned.
- [AI fears wipe nearly US$2 trillion off global software stocks](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ai-fears-wipe-nearly-us2-trillion-off-global-software-stocks/) - By Sean Ashton, Head of Investments at Private Clients by Old Mutual Throughout market history, dominant industries have rarely been displaced overnight. Instead, they have been gradually, then suddenly, reshaped by technologies that fundamentally alter how value is created, delivered and captured. The pattern may be familiar to investors: early signs of disruption are often
- [Rethinking Performance: Part 4 of 5 – Why Judgement Matters in Performance Evaluation](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/rethinking-performance-part-4-of-5-why-judgement-matters-in-performance-evaluation/) - In Part 4 of the five-part Rethinking Performance series, written by Camille Rabier, Consultant at 21st Century, the focus shifts from design to real-world application. While the model provides a way of making behaviour evaluable, its effectiveness ultimately depends on how it is applied in practice. This places managerial judgement at the centre of behavioural
- [AI is reshaping jobs faster than companies are reshaping work](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ai-is-reshaping-jobs-faster-than-companies-are-reshaping-work/) - Artificial intelligence is no longer simply boosting productivity and saving time at work, it is fundamentally reshaping the nature of work, leadership, and employee experience, according to new survey data from Boston Consulting Group (BCG). Nearly three-quarters (72%) of respondents, comprising of white-collar employees both at the frontline and in managerial roles, now say
- [Traditional Management Becoming Obsolete as AI Fundamentally Reinvents How Businesses Are Managed](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/traditional-management-becoming-obsolete-as-ai-fundamentally-reinvents-how-businesses-are-managed/) - Andrew Bizzell, Director of The Productivity Institute A new white paper warns that AI will not simply automate tasks, it will fundamentally reshape the architecture of management itself, forcing SME leaders to develop entirely new capabilities to govern hybrid human-AI workforces. In a new thought leadership white paper released by The Productivity Institute titled The Future of
- [Energy and freight shocks ripple through SA supply chains](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/energy-and-freight-shocks-ripple-through-sa-supply-chains/) - Early optimism for economic recovery in 2026 is giving way to renewed pressure, as rising energy costs, freight disruptions and geopolitical tensions weigh on global and South African markets. At the start of the year, expectations were anchored in potential ratings upgrades, interest rate cuts, and a stronger rand. The World Bank projected growth improving
- [Farm-to-table gains ground as South Africa tackles food security and sustainability](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/farm-to-table-gains-ground-as-south-africa-tackles-food-security-and-sustainability/) - The term “farm-to-table” has become an integral part of the restaurant and lifestyle culture in South Africa. As more consumers become more health-conscious and sustainable, these beliefs and behavioural shifts influence their choices. According to a consumer report, South African consumers expect brands to support them in living a healthy lifestyle, with 42% citing health
- [The mid-market IT squeeze: too complex to manage casually, too lean to build everything in-house](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-mid-market-it-squeeze-too-complex-to-manage-casually-too-lean-to-build-everything-in-house/) - Michael Currie, Director at The Cloud Crew In many South African mid-market businesses, the IT team is now expected to operate with the discipline of an enterprise technology function, but without the depth of resources that larger organisations can bring to bear. That leaves a small team moving between Microsoft 365 licensing, cloud workloads, user
- [Happy, purposeful businesses are harder to kill: Conn Bertish joins the Nedbank IMC 2026 line-up](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/happy-purposeful-businesses-are-harder-to-kill-conn-bertish-joins-the-nedbank-imc-2026-line-up/) - The Nedbank IMC has announced Conn Bertish, global creative strategist and purpose advisor, as a speaker for the 2026 conference, taking place on 17 September 2026 at Mosaïek, Johannesburg. Under the 2026 theme Shift Happens™, Bertish’s session, Happy, Purposeful Businesses Are Harder to Kill, looks at a shift every business leader can recognise: how people
- [Fuel price volatility is creating a new cross-border challenge for SMEs](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/fuel-price-volatility-is-creating-a-new-cross-border-challenge-for-smes/) - South Africa’s latest fuel price adjustment, which saw petrol prices increase while diesel prices declined, highlights the volatility that continues to shape business operating costs. For small and medium enterprises (SMEs) involved in cross-border trade, however, the impact extends far beyond the petrol pump. Against a backdrop of constrained margins and economic uncertainty, many SMEs
- [Aions Ventures backs early-stage growth with R100m seed fund](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/aions-ventures-backs-early-stage-growth-with-r100m-seed-fund/) - Aions Ventures has launched Aions Seed Fund I, a R100 million seed fund to back early-stage South African technology startups and help bridge the country’s gap between early traction and Series A. The fund includes R60 million allocated through the High Impact Seed Fund of Funds (HISFoF), a R300 million fund-of-funds initiative managed by
- [You Can’t Measure What You Can’t Define – Or Can You? (Part 3)](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/you-cant-measure-what-you-cant-define-or-can-you-part-3/) - In Part 3 of Rethinking Performance, written by Camille Rabier, Consultant at 21st Century, the series shifts from diagnosing the gaps in performance systems to exploring how they can be redesigned. The article examines how behavioural expectations can be translated into structured, usable criteria that make performance evaluation more consistent, transparent and defensible. Making behaviour
- [You Don't Need a Dream Job. You Need a First Opportunity.](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/you-dont-need-a-dream-job-you-need-a-first-opportunity/) - Every year, thousands of young South Africans leave school, college or university asking the same question: “How do I get a job if nobody will hire me without experience?” It’s one of the biggest frustrations facing young people today. But here’s an important truth: Your first opportunity does not need to be perfect. It needs
- [SMEs Operate at Half Their Potential: New Platform Targets the Structural Cause](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/smes-operate-at-half-their-potential-new-platform-targets-the-structural-cause/) - Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) generate, on average, only around half the productivity of large firms. This is a gap equivalent to as much as 5% of GDP in advanced economies and up to 10% in emerging markets, according to OECD and McKinsey research. Despite increasing investment in software, ranging from CRM and ERP systems
- [The leadership skill South African boardrooms are still not training for](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-leadership-skill-south-african-boardrooms-are-still-not-training-for/) - By Marilize Jacobs, founder of VocalCord PR & Reputation Management and Pigs Can Fly Interiors, and #50 on the Today Africa 100+ African Entrepreneurs to Watch in 2026, argues that the gap between what leaders say and what they actually hear is where most South African organisations quietly bleed talent, clients, and competitive ground. The
- [Two-pot system and rate cuts give consumers some relief](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/two-pot-system-and-rate-cuts-give-consumers-some-relief/) - South Africans’ finances benefited from the two-pot retirement system and successive interest rate cuts in the first quarter of 2026; however, global events are now driving core inflation and possible rate increases. On this, the 10th anniversary of the Debt Index, Benay Sager, executive head of DebtBusters, says that while interest in debt counselling was
- [Over 100 Residents Receive AI-Powered TB Screening at Cape Town Health Day](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/over-100-residents-receive-ai-powered-tb-screening-at-cape-town-health-day/) - On Saturday, 16 May, The Impilo Project, a South African NGO delivering healthcare to underserved communities, facilitated a health screening day at Marconi Beam Primary School in Joe Slovo, an informal settlement in Cape Town, South Africa. The successful initiative provided a first look at the cutting-edge future of Tuberculosis (TB) detection. Through collaborations with
- [Is Your AI Search Report Lying To You?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/is-your-ai-search-report-lying-to-you/) - Traditional SEO metrics don’t hold up when it comes to measuring AI search performance. So, we borrowed a new system … from chess. By Bryony Rose, Director of Enterprise International business at Yext, a VML service partner If a chess grandmaster plays against an amateur chess player and loses, the result is considered a fluke.
- [Why most AI projects fail after launch](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-most-ai-projects-fail-after-launch/) - DY|DX says the real challenge isn’t building AI tools, it’s getting people to use them South African businesses are under growing pressure to adopt artificial intelligence (AI), but according to digital transformation consultancy DY|DX, many organisations are focusing on the wrong part of the challenge. While much of the market conversation remains centred on tools,
- [Shaping what’s next: AI and the future of exceptional performance](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/shaping-whats-next-ai-and-the-future-of-exceptional-performance/) - By: Cheree Dyers, Chief Executive Officer at Prescient Investment Management We are living through one of the most important technological shifts of our generation. Artificial intelligence is already reshaping how we work, learn, analyse, code, communicate and make decisions. At Prescient Investment Management, we have embraced this shift early and intentionally and we should continue
- [The old playbook  Is finished. So is the way we measure TV  In South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-old-playbook-is-finished-so-is-the-way-we-measure-tv-in-south-africa/) - Global ad spend forecasts from WARC’s Future of Media 2026 Report, the collapse of South Africa’s traditional pay-TV model, and the rise of AI-powered search should act as stark wake-up calls for marketers, warns award-winning digital agency TDMC – a view reinforced by South African data from Google, TDMC’s Premier Partner. WARC’s Future of Media
- [Rewriting smallholder finance: How AI is changing the game](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/rewriting-smallholder-finance-how-ai-is-changing-the-game/) - Before sunrise, across small plots of land stretching from the temperate rural heartlands of Southern Africa to the tropical landscapes of East and West Africa, millions of smallholder farmers begin their day. Their work feeds families and underpins national food systems. Yet when it comes to access to finance – the credit, insurance and working
- [Africa's Power Market is Learning to Share](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/africas-power-market-is-learning-to-share/) - Shirley Webber, Coverage Head, Resources & Energy at Absa CIB and Nikhil Kasiram, Resource and Project Finance: Power and Infrastructure at Absa CIB British power developer Gridworks recently signed two landmark agreements with the Government of Uganda to begin construction on the Amari Project, widely regarded as Africa’s first independent transmission project to reach this
- [Beyond the Storm: Transforming the Youth Employment Landscape Through Data and Bold Action](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/beyond-the-storm-transforming-the-youth-employment-landscape-through-data-and-bold-action/) - Fifty years after the student uprising that defined Youth Day on 16 June 1976, South Africa’s young people have secured their political freedom, but the struggle for economic inclusion continues. They facea challenges on two fronts: the persistent systemic barriers of the past, and a world that is becoming increasingly complex and unpredictable. Current volatility in geopolitics
- [Building the next generation of municipal engineers is key to solving South Africa’s infrastructure crisis](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/building-the-next-generation-of-municipal-engineers-is-key-to-solving-south-africas-infrastructure-crisis/) - Discussions about South Africa’s infrastructure challenges usually focus on failing water systems, deteriorating roads, unreliable electricity supply and mounting maintenance backlogs. Less often discussed is one of the root causes of many of these problems: the growing shortage of engineering skills in local government. As the country marks Youth Month, the conversation around infrastructure resilience
- [Architecting Our Future: Why True Freedom Requires Sovereign Innovation](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/architecting-our-future-why-true-freedom-requires-sovereign-innovation/) - By Dr Mmaki Jantjies, Group Executive: Innovation and Transformation On 16 June, Youth Day, South Africa pauses not only to remember the courage of young people, but to confront the unfinished work of building a country worthy of their sacrifice. Fifty years ago, Soweto learners protested an apartheid education system that sought to impose Afrikaans
- [The 360-degree emerging leader: how South Africa’s young managers can turn generational friction into corporate clout](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-360-degree-emerging-leader-how-south-africas-young-managers-can-turn-generational-friction-into-corporate-clout/) - South Africa possesses one of the most vibrant, diverse and complex corporate landscapes in the world. At the heart of this landscape is a fast-growing cohort of young managers who are already divisional leaders despite being 35 and under, says Jackie Kennedy, founder and CEO of LeadMe Academy. Young professionals are stepping into leadership roles faster
- [FNB App Academy 2026 Joins Forces with UJ Business School to Shape Next-Gen Developers](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/fnb-app-academy-2026-joins-forces-with-uj-business-school-to-shape-next-gen-developers/) - FNB, together with the University of Johannesburg’s Business School (JBS), have announced a landmark collaboration for the 2026 FNB App Academy programme, aimed at expanding access to credible, future-ready digital education and strengthening pathways for youth into South Africa’s digital future. Rooted in the belief that talent exists everywhere, even where opportunity does not, the
- [Unlocking opportunity and capital in Africa’s junior mining sector](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/unlocking-opportunity-and-capital-in-africas-junior-mining-sector/) - Africa’s junior mining sector continues to present meaningful opportunity, supported by new markets and shifting demand patterns, but investors are no longer funding promise alone and capital for new developments remains constrained. On the second day of The Junior Indaba, in the opening the discussion, Peter Schmitz, Research Director, M&M Demand at Wood Mackenzie, said
- [If you knew what was inside your food, would you still choose it?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/if-you-knew-what-was-inside-your-food-would-you-still-choose-it/) - Every day, millions of South Africans make decisions about what to feed themselves and their families. They compare prices, choose trusted brands, pack lunchboxes, prepare dinners and try to make the best choices they can. But what if the biggest challenge isn’t choosing healthier food? What if it’s understanding what is actually inside it? That
- [Building mentally resilient workplaces in South Africa’s public sector](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/building-mentally-resilient-workplaces-in-south-africas-public-sector/) - Damian McHugh, Chief Marketing Officer at Momentum Health The workforce in South Africa’s public sector is the engine of national development. From healthcare professionals, educators, administrative officers and law enforcement, these individuals carry the weight of service delivery to millions. However, this engine is currently under immense strain. We are seeing a measurable and devastating
- [When Earnings Matter More Than Headlines](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/when-earnings-matter-more-than-headlines/) - Sean Ashton, Head of Investments at Private Clients by Old Mutual Investors today face no shortage of distractions. From geopolitical tensions in the Middle East to ongoing political and economic uncertainty around the world, there is a constant stream of headlines competing for attention. Yet despite this backdrop, equity markets continue to push higher. This
- [KFC India CMO Suhayl Limbada to speak at the nedbank imc 2026](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/kfc-india-cmo-suhayl-limbada-tkfc-india-cmo-suhayl-limbada-to-speak-at-the-nedbank-imc-2026o-speak-at-the-nedbank-imc-2026/) - The Nedbank IMC has announced Suhayl Limbada, Chief Marketing Officer for KFC India and partner markets, as an international keynote speaker for the 2026 conference, taking place on 17 September 2026 at Mosaïek, Johannesburg. In a conference built around the theme SHIFT HAPPENS™. ARE YOU READY?, Limbada brings a perspective shaped not in boardrooms alone, but
- [2026 CV Checklist](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/2026-cv-checklist/) - Most CVs get dismissed in under 10 seconds. Not because the person isn’t qualified but because the CV doesn’t do its job. Use this free checklist to make sure yours does. Download the SABM CV Checklist 2026 Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete
- [Improve Your LinkedIn Profile](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/improve-your-linkedin-profile/) - https://www.linkedin.com/learning/https://socialimpact.linkedin.com/programs/career-essentialshttps://www.linkedin.com/jobs/career-advice/https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin
- [Build Your CV](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/build-your-cv/) - https://www.canva.com/resumes/https://resume.io/https://www.jobscan.co/https://www.topcv.com/career-advicehttps://novoresume.com/career-bloghttps://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters
- [Find Work](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/find-work/) - https://sayouth.mobi/https://www.yes4youth.co.za/https://www.harambee.co.za/https://www.tshepo1million.org.za/https://www.careerjunction.co.za/https://www.pnet.co.za/https://za.indeed.com/https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/https://www.graduates24.com/https://www.youthvillage.co.za/https://www.careersportal.co.za/
- [The skills that will define tomorrow’s workforce](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-skills-that-will-define-tomorrows-workforce/) - By Aditi Lachman, Head of Youth Programmes, Youth Employment Service (YES) The world of work is changing faster than our education systems can track, which means preparing for a single career or a fixed set of skills is, paradoxically, one of the least effective strategies a young person can adopt today. The most important shift
- [5 business lessons from the English Premier League](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/5-business-lessons-from-the-english-premier-league/) - Author: Reginald Pillay, Group Chief Executive, Ariston Global As one of the tightest title races in English football history draws to a close, it provides us with a novel opportunity to draw parallels between elite football and business performance and see if we can take learnings from this competition and apply it in our entrepreneurial
- [Three ways heavy diesel users can manage the fuel crisis](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/three-ways-heavy-diesel-users-can-manage-the-fuel-crisis/) - By Ricky Luntz, CEO, Refuel South Africa’s heavy users of diesel, such as the mining, agriculture and food production industries, face three converging pressures on their fuel budgets. Firstly, fuel price volatility is eroding profits in these industries, some of which already have very thin margins. Secondly, SARS is changing the diesel rebate process to
- [AI governance without complexity: A business leader's guide](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ai-governance-without-complexity-a-business-leaders-guide/) - Senzo Mbhele, managing director, Cloud On Demand There is a version of AI governance that looks like a hundred-page policy document, a steering committee and a six-month implementation roadmap. Most businesses do not need that version. What leaders actually want is straightforward: AI that works, that is safe, and that they can explain to
- [Correcting the misalignment between digital skills and business needs](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/correcting-the-misalignment-between-digital-skills-and-business-needs/) - By Mark Mc Kerr, Managing Executive at Paracon by Adcorp The conversation around AI is often dominated by speculation about job losses. Yet this focus distracts from a more immediate and measurable challenge: South African businesses are investing in advanced technologies, but they do not have the critical digital skills, particularly in data, cybersecurity, and
- [9% vs 4.7%: The Borrowing Gap Costing Africa $75 Billion a Year and Blocking Its Rise](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/9-vs-4-7-the-borrowing-gap-costing-africa-75-billion-a-year-and-blocking-its-rise/) - Eleven of the world’s fifteen fastest-growing economies in 2025 are African. Sub-Saharan Africa grew at 4.1% in 2025, and the IMF projects 4.4% in 2026. The African Development Bank expects 41% of African economies to grow at 5% or above this year, nearly double the global average. And yet Africa pays more to borrow than
- [Busy doesn’t mean aligned: the hidden risk inside growing businesses](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/busy-doesnt-mean-aligned-the-hidden-risk-inside-growing-businesses/) - A recent Microsoft Work Trend Index report has revealed that employees are interrupted every two minutes on average by meetings, emails or messages. But the bigger issue is not just interruption. It is what all that activity may be hiding: slow decision-making, poor alignment and stalled execution. For Dori Moreno, a growth strategist specialising in
- [Beyond compliance: Why South Africa’s QCTO shift demands a more human approach to skills development](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/beyond-compliance-why-south-africas-qcto-shift-demands-a-more-human-approach-to-skills-development/) - As South Africa accelerates its transition to the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO), a critical tension is emerging within the training and development sector: the disconnect between compliance-driven learning and meaningful skills development. While the regulatory shift is designed to improve the quality and relevance of training, many organisations continue to approach learning
- [Jobs promised but never delivered](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/jobs-promised-but-never-delivered/) - by Dimakatso Sefatsa Workers’ Month in South Africa takes place each year throughout May, beginning with Workers’ Day on 1 May, to recognise the contributions, rights, and ongoing struggles of the working class. The month serves as a reminder of the importance of fair labour practices, safe working conditions, and the continued pursuit of
- [Why Africa’s creative industries may be better prepared for AI than the global North](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-africas-creative-industries-may-be-better-prepared-for-ai-than-the-global-north/) - By Garon Campbell, Founder and Director, Breadbin Productions For years, African creative industries were measured against systems they were never designed to resemble. The comparison was almost always structural due to smaller budgets, leaner crews, less infrastructure, and fewer layers of technical support. Against the ‘bright lights, big city’ production ecosystems of Los Angeles, London,
- [The Real Cost of Getting Hiring Wrong](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-real-cost-of-getting-hiring-wrong/) - Executive appointments are among the most consequential decisions a business can make. At board, C-suite, and senior leadership level, one hire has the power to accelerate strategy, strengthen culture, unlock growth, and build confidence across an entire organisation. But the reverse is also true, writes Jeremy Bossenger, director at BossJansen Executive Search. A poor executive
- [Africa's path to gender economic parity has been pushed back by 50 years, but digital entrepreneurship offers a way forward](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/africas-path-to-gender-economic-parity-has-been-pushed-back-by-50-years-but-digital-entrepreneurship-offers-a-way-forward/) - Boston Consulting Group (BCG) has today released a new report, Financing Women’s Digital Entrepreneurship: A Pathway to Closing Africa’s Economic Gender Gap, revealing that women’s economic participation in Africa has fallen 0.6 percentage points below 2022 levels, extending the region’s timeline to reach economic parity from 120 years to approximately 170 years. The report
- [Private debt can steady a portfolio, but only if investors understand the risks](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/private-debt-can-steady-a-portfolio-but-only-if-investors-understand-the-risks/) - Etienne Viljoen, Chief Investment Officer at Aurora Capital SA Investors often turn to alternative investments, looking for something that the listed market cannot always provide. For instance, a different return profile, less exposure to daily market sentiment, and a better way to manage portfolio risk when conditions become more volatile. That is understandable. Traditional portfolios
- [How, and why, to choose an employee benefits partner that delivers](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-and-why-to-choose-an-employee-benefits-partner-that-delivers/) - Most employers believe that having employee benefits in place means they are doing right by their people. Retirement funds exist. Risk cover is provided. Medical options are offered. On paper, everything looks fine. But, in many cases, the paper isn’t telling the real story. Lettesha Pillay, Head of Business Development at advisory firm NMG Benefits,
- [You Have Been Storm’ed](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/you-have-been-stormed/) - Everyone at some point clicks something they should not have. An email link without thinking. Or, in a rush, you click a web or domain address before checking it out. In this story, about a forty person electrical engineering firm in Germiston, that person was Koos. Koos has worked in the accounts department for eleven
- [Injini launches new African EdTech Insights Report to drive systemic change in classrooms](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/injini-launches-new-african-edtech-insights-report-to-drive-systemic-change-in-classrooms/) - Injini is pleased to announce the launch of the fourth volume of its African EdTech Insights Report, a key resource for stakeholders in the education innovation ecosystem. Titled “When Technology Meets the Classroom: What It Takes for EdTech to Succeed”, this year’s report moves beyond digital readiness to address a more critical question: Is the
- [Why SA’s hard-won recovery is facing its ultimate stress test](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-sas-hard-won-recovery-is-facing-its-ultimate-stress-test/) - As we enter the second quarter of 2026, the hard-won momentum of South Africa’s economic recovery is facing its ultimate stress test. A global energy shock has ignited a severe cost-of-living hike, with soaring fuel prices threatening a new wave of logistics-driven inflation that touches every corner of the consumer landscape. From the price of
- [Education as infrastructure: time to rethink our funding models](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/education-as-infrastructure-time-to-rethink-our-funding-models/) - While South Africa’s Constitution and National Development Plan speak of developing and enabling a skilled capable citizenry, every January, thousands of qualified, motivated, academically deserving young South Africans cannot register for tertiary studies – not because they failed, but because they are poor in exactly the wrong way. They are the “missing middle”. As the
- [Property-led economic growth leans on government reform](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/property-led-economic-growth-leans-on-government-reform/) - South Africa’s property development sector is entering 2026 on firmer ground than it has in several years. However, meaningful growth will depend on decisive government action. According to BPAS Architects director Landseer Collen, this includes a commitment to fixing infrastructure to enable long-term urban development. After five years marked by economic shocks, rising interest rates,
- [IRMSA warns South Africa faces a new era of compounded risk, not isolated crises](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/irmsa-warns-south-africa-faces-a-new-era-of-compounded-risk-not-isolated-crises/) - By Yvonne Mothibi Chief Executive Officer of the Institute of Risk Management South Africa (IRMSA). For too long, South Africa has treated risk as a series of separate problems. Electricity sits in one box, cyber threats in another, water insecurity somewhere else, and public debt in yet another file on another desk. That way of
- [Kagiso Trust sets its sights on igniting human capacity across Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/kagiso-trust-sets-its-sights-on-igniting-human-capacity-across-africa/) - After 40 years as one of South Africa’s leading development agencies, Kagiso Trust says it intends to expand its impact across the continent. The move, announced by chairperson Mankoni Ntsaba in the Trust’s new annual report, marks a strategic pivot that recognises the continent’s interconnected development challenges and solutions. “South Africa’s development is intrinsically linked
- [Three decades of impact, reimagined: Engen Maths & Science Schools launches bold new blended learning platform](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/three-decades-of-impact-reimagined-engen-maths-science-schools-launches-bold-new-blended-learning-platform/) - Since its inception in 1987, the Engen Maths & Science Schools (EMSS) programme has been a lifeline for South African learners striving to excel in Mathematics and Physical Sciences, helping to close the country’s STEM skills gap, one learner at a time. Now, EMSS is entering an exciting new chapter. In a significant milestone for
- [New TransUnion study shows South Africans still struggle high cost of living pressures](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/new-transunion-study-shows-south-africans-still-struggle-high-cost-of-living-pressures/) - South African consumers are adjusting their financial behaviour in response to ongoing cost pressures, with TransUnion’s Q1 2026 Consumer Pulse Study[1] revealing meaningful shifts in how households spend, save and manage credit. While many households remain under financial strain, the findings point to a shift toward more deliberate and considered financial decision-making. The study found
- [Why SA's delisting is the starting line and not cause for celebration](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-sas-delisting-is-the-starting-line-and-not-cause-for-celebration/) - By Foster Tshiluvhu, Head of Compliance at CMS South Africa South Africa’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force grey list was a major milestone, signaling to global markets that the country has strengthened its ability to prevent financial crime. Grey listing had added friction to cross‑border transactions, increased due diligence costs and made investors
- [Investing for the First Time? Why ETFs in a Tax‑Free Savings Account is a Powerful Starting Point](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/investing-for-the-first-time-why-etfs-in-a-tax-free-savings-account-is-a-powerful-starting-point-2/) - By: Niki Giles, Head of Strategy at Prescient Fund Services If you’re thinking about investing for the first time, you’re already ahead of the curve. For many South Africans, the hardest part of investing is getting started. The terminology feels unfamiliar, the choices overwhelming, and the fear of making a mistake can be enough to
- [The workplace in 2026: Why building a human-centric internal culture matters more than ever](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-workplace-in-2026-why-building-a-human-centric-internal-culture-matters-more-than-ever/) - In today’s ever-evolving workplace, culture is often understood as little more than the odd team-building exercise organised by HR or dismissed as a corporate buzzword. However, for leading South African organisations operating in 2026, culture is the internal architecture that dictates a company’s resilience, growth, and survival. A robust internal culture is built from the
- [South Africa Fuel Shock Raises Cost of Work for Gig Drivers, SMEs, and Freight Operators as Unemployment Hits 32.7%](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-africa-fuel-shock-raises-cost-of-work-for-gig-drivers-smes-and-freight-operators-as-unemployment-hits-32-7/) - South Africa’s May fuel adjustment has raised the cost of earning income for workers and small operators who pay petrol or diesel before receiving revenue from fares, deliveries, stock sales or freight invoices. The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) has recently corrected the May diesel increase after saying the wholesale diesel adjustment had
- [Rethinking Performance: Why Behaviour Remains the Missing Link in Evaluation](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/rethinking-performance-why-behaviour-remains-the-missing-link-in-evaluation/) - Part 1 argued that performance systems are incomplete when they privilege outcomes over the conditions through which those outcomes are created. In this second article, written by Camille Rabier from 21st Century, we explore why behaviour is so difficult to evaluate in practice and why that difficulty lies at the heart of the design problem.
- [Moving on? Don’t leave your pension with your old employer](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/moving-on-dont-leave-your-pension-with-your-old-employer/) - By Michael Rossouw, Senior Investment Consultant at 10X Investments When most of us change jobs, we focus on the perks of our new position: a better salary, more benefits or a more senior title. What we often don’t consider is our retirement savings. If you cash out, you take an immediate tax hit and lose
- [The overlooked leadership advantage that nonprofits have already mastered](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-overlooked-leadership-advantage-that-nonprofits-have-already-mastered/) - Jeni-Anne Campbell, founder of The Good Businesswoman and author of Feeding Unicorns, says that when you spend time inside a nonprofit, one thing becomes clear very quickly: There is very little excess. Here she explores what this way of working reveals about leadership, resourcefulness and impact, and what businesses can learn from those that are
- [Earnings threshold change demands immediate employer action](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/earnings-threshold-change-demands-immediate-employer-action/) - By Carole Ratcliffe, Managing Executive at Quest by Adcorp A new earnings threshold took effect on 1 May, raising the level at which employees qualify for certain protections under the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA). On the surface, the adjustment of three percent – to R269,601 per year, or R22,467 per month – appears
- [What banks look for in SMEs seeking growth finance](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/what-banks-look-for-in-smes-seeking-growth-finance/) - By Marko Campher, Executive for Lending at Nedbank For many established small and medium enterprises (SMEs), growth is not limited by a lack of ambition or poor demand for their products or services; it’s usually limited by cash flow. A business can gain new work, grow its turnover and have ambitious plans in place to
- [Powered by intelligence, built on trust: R720 billion platform, Santi4 launches to modernise investment management](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/powered-by-intelligence-built-on-trust-r720-billion-platform-santi4-launches-to-modernise-investment-management/) - Santi4, a next-generation investment technology platform, has officially launched today with R720 billion ($35bn) in client assets under administration and is positioned to reach the R1 trillion ($58bn) milestone within the next year. The platform enters the market with a clear mandate: to modernise the global investment management industry by leveraging advanced intelligence to eliminate the legacy administrative
- [Falling Inflation and Stable Interest Rates, But Where Are the Jobs?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/falling-inflation-and-stable-interest-rates-but-where-are-the-jobs/) - By: Dr Alex Malapane South Africa presents a macroeconomic profile that appears stable in nominal terms, yet continues to underperform in real economic outcomes. Inflation has declined meaningfully from the post-pandemic peak, interest rates have stabilised after a sustained tightening cycle, and financial markets have largely absorbed global volatility shocks. However, unemployment remains structurally elevated
- [Catalytic targets SA's distributed SME contact centres](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/catalytic-targets-sas-distributed-sme-contact-centres/) - By Jaco Voigt CEO: TeleMasters, Director: Catalytic I wonder if any SA Business Matters readers will remember those instant business card printers that made a brief appearance around SA malls so many years ago? I remember marveling at the time how those little machines with their snazzy cards for just a few rands could
- [SA workplaces see sharp rise in alcohol and gambling as stress becomes chronic](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/sa-workplaces-see-sharp-rise-in-alcohol-and-gambling-as-stress-becomes-chronic/) - Lyra Southern Africa’s latest behavioural health data reveals a steady year‑on‑year rise in addictive behaviours among South African employees, reflecting how prolonged stress is reshaping the ways people cope, escape and self‑manage emotional pressure. Drawn from a five‑year analysis of Employee Wellness Programme trends, the data shows total addictive behaviour cases increasing from 1.79 percent
- [Trust Among South Africans is Fracturing Along Income Lines Amid Widespread Insularity](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/trust-among-south-africans-is-fracturing-along-income-lines-amid-widespread-insularity/) - The 2026 Edelman Trust Barometer shows that South Africans are placing responsibility on business leaders and employers to act as trust brokers and help bridge divides across society. As economic pressure and uncertainty mount, people are pulling closer to what they know, demonstrating unwillingness or hesitation to trust others who are different from them. This
- [How many litres of water does one AI prompt use?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-many-litres-of-water-does-one-ai-prompt-use/) - By: Dimpho Sekhaolelo, Quantitative Analyst and ESG Committee Chair at Prescient Investment Management Every time you ask a chatbot a question, somewhere in the world a server warms up. What feels like a simple digital interaction is, in fact, a physical process. Behind every prompt sits a data centre that consumes electricity, generates heat, and
- [What the HR director needs from the CEO](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/what-the-hr-director-needs-from-the-ceo/) - There’s a quiet myth that still lingers in boardrooms: human resources (HR) is there to “support the business”. Helpful, yes. Necessary, of course. But ultimately… secondary. That thinking is not just outdated, it’s expensive, writes Vaness Rogers. In 2026, the organisations that are thriving in their sectors, are not necessarily the ones with the best
- [Beyond the Basket: why South Africa's inflation story is being misread in real time](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/beyond-the-basket-why-south-africas-inflation-story-is-being-misread-in-real-time/) - By Jed da Silva, Co-Founder & Head of Product at Maholla [1] South Africans don’t need a quarterly report to feel the cost-of-living crisis. They feel it at the till. The question is why our data systems are still catching up months after households have already adapted, and what we lose in that delay. South Africa’s
- [AI in Education: How South Africa can unlock better learning outcomes in 2026](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ai-in-education-how-south-africa-can-unlock-better-learning-outcomes-in-2026/) - Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping classrooms across the world but not without debate. In several Scandinavian countries, education authorities have recently moved to reduce screen time and reintroduce traditional textbooks, following concerns about over-digitisation and its impact on literacy and concentration. At the same time, educators globally are grappling with academic integrity challenges, including plagiarism
- [The six retirement costs your clients aren't budgeting for](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-six-retirement-costs-your-clients-arent-budgeting-for/) - Retirement plans don’t fail on the income side. They fail on the cost side, specifically, a stack of unbudgeted costs that arrive in waves in the second half of retirement. By Murray Anderson | Head of Retail, Prescient Investment Management The headline numbers in South Africa’s retirement debate are well-rehearsed. Only about 6% of South
- [Redefining Performance: What Are We Really Measuring?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/redefining-performance-what-are-we-really-measuring/) - What exactly is performance? This second article in the two-part series by Camille Rabier from 21st Century, Rethinking Fairness and Performance, builds on Part 1 by asking the prior question: what, exactly, should count as performance? It argues that sustainable performance cannot be reduced to outputs alone but must include the behaviours and conditions that
- [South Africa’s vaccination drive needs renewed urgency](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-africas-vaccination-drive-needs-renewed-urgency/) - Marked each year from 24 to 30 April, African Vaccination Week focuses on the need for equitable access to lifesaving vaccines across the continent. It’s also a timely reminder that while vaccination remains one of the most effective tools in public health, gaps in coverage are a real concern, in South Africa and globally. UNICEF
- [South Africa's cloud moment is here. Is your business ready?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-africas-cloud-moment-is-here-is-your-business-ready/) - By Mukumela Sibata, Software Product Manager at Rectron South African businesses are running out of reasons to delay cloud adoption. In an economy defined by rising costs, power instability, and digital-first competitors, the real risk is no longer moving too fast but moving too late. The economics have changed Cloud infrastructure operates on a pay-as-you-go
- [South Africa’s consumer class is back on the road!](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-africas-consumer-class-is-back-on-the-road/) - Even as spiking petrol and diesel prices are squeezing South African wallets tighter than the backlog of oil tankers trying to get through the Strait of Hormuz, new car sales are showing strong growth. For the 2025 calendar year, passenger car sales alone peaked at 422 000 units which is a 20% growth on the previous
- [Sustainability is one responsible decision at a time](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/sustainability-is-one-responsible-decision-at-a-time/) - Today, businesses must demonstrate sustainability with action – gone are the days when intentions were sufficient. From industry policies, reducing environmental impact and retaining relevance in a market heavily influenced by consumer behaviour and uncontrollable economic shifts, for the FMCG sector this is a reality that simply cannot be avoided. The question however this World
- [Are offshore trusts only for the wealthy?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/are-offshore-trusts-only-for-the-wealthy/) - By Coreen van der Merwe, Director at Sovereign Trust SA Offshore trusts are often misunderstood. Many South Africans see them as complex, expensive structures reserved for high net worth individuals; a perception that has been shaped by historic high fees and limited access, which meant many did not even consider offshore trusts as part of
- [New research shows where South Africa’s fight against stunting is falling short and where it must be strengthened](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/new-research-shows-where-south-africas-fight-against-stunting-is-falling-short-and-where-it-must-be-strengthened/) - This year, President Cyril Ramaphosa used his State of the Nation Address to pledge government’s commitment to eradicating stunting by 2030, with an emphasis on the first 1 000 days of life and targeted nutritional interventions for pregnant women and low birth weight children. This is a clear signal that stunting has been elevated to
- [The reality behind first-time trading](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-reality-behind-first-time-trading/) - CFI Financial Group, a leading global online trading provider recently energised new and aspiring traders with its foundational seminar, “Before Your First Trade: 5 Essentials to Know,” delivering practical financial education and actionable insights in an engaging evening session. Led by trading educator Lismore Burke, the session focused on helping attendees understand how financial markets operate before
- [How can the South African payments ecosystem rebuild its relationship architecture?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-can-the-south-african-payments-ecosystem-rebuild-its-relationship-architecture/) - Don Lange, Partner Manager at Ecentric Payment Systems The South African Reserve Bank’s Payments Ecosystem Modernisation Programme (PEM) is reconfiguring the country’s entire clearing and settlement architecture, with new payment institution licences expected in early 2026. The goal is to deliver fast, simple, inclusive and secure digital payments that replace and upgrade both high-value
- [The AI productivity paradox : How SA companies can avoid "AI-washing"](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-ai-productivity-paradox-how-sa-companies-can-avoid-ai-washing/) - As global headlines increasingly report AI-driven layoffs in the US and other major markets, and companies pause hires and leave roles unfilled while expecting remaining team members to absorb the workload, South African employers and employees alike are considering what the impact of the trend might be once it fully hits our shores. The reality
- [South Africa has 118,000 unfilled tech jobs. Why does it take so long for jobseekers to land one?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-africa-has-118000-unfilled-tech-jobs-why-does-it-take-so-long-for-jobseekers-to-land-one/) - In 2018, Kate Maakane placed second in a hackathon. She was hungry for the opportunity, bright and ready to be challenged. The tech industry didn’t come knocking. It took six more years before she got her shot. A comprehensive 2024/2025 research report titled “Decoding ICT Demand”, conducted by The Collective X, a South African non-profit
- [Gap cover is your safety net for rising healthcare costs](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/gap-cover-is-your-safety-net-for-rising-healthcare-costs/) - For many South African households, the impact of rising costs for essential items and services is stretching budgets more than ever before. With global fuel shortages driving up the cost of petrol and diesel, a significant increase in April will likely be followed by another in May. Water has become more expensive and electricity charges
- [How faster board reporting strengthens your competitive edge](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-faster-board-reporting-strengthens-your-competitive-edge/) - In many organisations, the monthly reporting cycle still follows a familiar pattern, with finance teams closing the books, extracting data from multiple systems, reconciling discrepancies and consolidating figures across entities. Reports are then checked, adjusted and eventually compiled into a board pack. However, by the time the board receives the information, it is often already
- [Key takeouts from Dentsu’s landmark brand reset report](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/key-takeouts-from-dentsus-landmark-brand-reset-report/) - Dentsu’s Brand Reset industry report highlights the value of digital video and Connected TV and the rapidly closing gap between the deliverables provided by them and traditional Linear TV. Cheryl Ingram, founder and CEO of leading digital agency TDMC (The Digital Media Collective), says this report should act as a wakeup call for marketers and
- [Kagiso Trust launches toolkit to help matric learners turn uncertainty into action](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/kagiso-trust-launches-toolkit-to-help-matric-learners-turn-uncertainty-into-action/) - Comprehensive guide offers practical tools, study strategies and career planning support for the class of 2026 Your future doesn’t start after matric, it starts now – and you don’t have to figure it out alone. That’s the message of the Makers of the Future toolkit, launched today by Kagiso Trust to support South Africa’s 2026
- [A story of reinvention, resilience and leadership](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/a-story-of-reinvention-resilience-and-leadership/) - The Nedbank IMC has added a singular voice to its 2026 line-up: Kabelo Mabalane, cultural icon, pastor, endurance athlete and one of South Africa’s most decorated musicians, will take the stage on 17 September 2026 at Mosaïek, Johannesburg. In a conference built around the theme SHIFT HAPPENS™. ARE YOU READY?, few speakers embody the reality
- [Health Equity Can’t Wait: Why Africa Needs a Binding Pandemic Deal Pronto](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/health-equity-cant-wait-why-africa-needs-a-binding-pandemic-deal-pronto/) - Experts at the World Health Organization have long asserted that the next pandemic is an epidemiological certainty, yet the global systems designed to protect populations remain questionable. For Ngaatendwe Murombedzi, Regional Advocacy, Policy, and Marketing Manager for the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), this reality has recently become urgent beyond measure. “It is both perplexing and
- [Why did financial independence become the finish line for women?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-did-financial-independence-become-the-finish-line-for-women/) - Somewhere along the way, financial independence became the finish line for women rather than the starting point, says Dori Moreno, a growth strategist specialising in the development of individuals, teams, and businesses. For her, this idea highlights a deeper contradiction in how we define success for women. We often talk about financial independence as a defining
- [Middle East war puts SA's networks on alert ](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/middle-east-war-puts-sas-networks-on-alert/) - FUEL SHOCKS, CRIME AND DIGITAL RISKS CONVERGE The Communications Risk Information Centre (COMRiC) is warning that the war in the Middle East is fast becoming a South African communications risk and not just an energy crisis. As conflict keeps pressure on the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil and gas chokepoints,
- [Rethinking Fairness and Performance - part 1](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/rethinking-fairness-and-performance-part-1/) - The Misconception of Fairness This first article in the two-part series, written by Camille Rabier from 21st Century, Rethinking Fairness and Performance, examines why equality and equity, while important, do not by themselves produce fairness in reward decisions. It argues that fairness depends on an organisation’s ability to clearly, consistently, and credibly differentiate contribution, behaviour, and value
- [Nigeria rebound exposes global benchmark blind spot in African markets](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/nigeria-rebound-exposes-global-benchmark-blind-spot-in-african-markets-2/) - Nigeria’s recent equity market rebound pre-Middle East crisis is highlighting a structural problem in how African markets are measured by global benchmark providers. According to global investment advisory firm RisCura, the way many global indices are constructed can cause benchmarks to disengage from African markets during periods of currency stress, even while institutional investors remain
- [Career-focused education : Bridging the gap between learning & the workplace](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/career-focused-education-bridging-the-gap-between-learning-the-workplace/) - Universities have a duty to actively strengthen link between academics and employability One of the most important expectations placed on higher education today is that it prepares students for successful careers. While intellectual development remains central to the mission of universities, students increasingly seek – rightly so – educational experiences that provide clear pathways into
- [Your Car is Smart. Your Thief is Smarter](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/your-car-is-smart-your-thief-is-smarter/) - By Tim Chadwick My client Danie. I will not use his real name as he will recognise himself immediately. Anyway, Danie spent R14 000 on vehicle security last year. He has a Ghost immobiliser, a RF tracker, a Faraday pouch, smash and grab film on every window and a steering lock he purchased with great
- [5 myths that might be derailing your digital marketing strategy](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/5-myths-that-might-be-derailing-your-digital-marketing-strategy/) - By Mateen Suliman, Business Development Executive for digital media at iqbusiness Digital marketing has never had more tools, targeting options, and dashboards. And yet, many brands are working harder than ever for returns that feel smaller than they should. Often, the reason for this is that brands are still following “conventional wisdom” that has become outdated
- [Nigeria rebound exposes global benchmark blind spot in African markets](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/nigeria-rebound-exposes-global-benchmark-blind-spot-in-african-markets/) - Nigeria’s recent equity market rebound pre-Middle East crisis is highlighting a structural problem in how African markets are measured by global benchmark providers. According to global investment advisory firm RisCura, the way many global indices are constructed can cause benchmarks to disengage from African markets during periods of currency stress, even while institutional investors remain actively
- [SA medtech company AI Diagnostics raises R85 million to accelerate AI-powered TB screening](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/sa-medtech-company-ai-diagnostics-raises-r85-million-to-accelerate-ai-powered-tb-screening/) - A South African medtech company has secured R85 million in funding to advance the use of its proprietary hardware and AI software in combatting the tuberculosis (TB) epidemic. The affordable solution, praised by investors for its social impact and innovation, makes TB screening easy and accessible for frontline health workers. AI Diagnostics, a South African
- [Thought Leadership vs Information](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/thought-leadership-vs-information/) - There is a growing volume of information being shared across platforms. Insights, tips, frameworks, perspectives. On the surface, it appears that thought leadership is thriving. But in reality, much of what is being published is not leadership. It is repetition. Information is easy to produce.It can be researched, summarised and distributed at scale. Thought leadership
- [Before You Click: The Ethics of Travel Photography](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/before-you-click-the-ethics-of-travel-photography/) - When you join a photography tour abroad, it is easy to focus on getting the perfect shot. But great travel photography is not only about composition, lighting, and timing. It is also about respect. As a guest in another country, you are stepping into people’s everyday lives, communities, and meaningful spaces. The way you photograph
- [Mind the gap: closing the space between applicants, recruiters, and potential bosses](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/mind-the-gap-closing-the-space-between-applicants-recruiters-and-potential-bosses/) - A job portal plays a powerful role in closing the gap between job seekers, HR professionals, and employers by bringing all three groups into one shared digital space. Here’s why you shouldn’t hesitate to sign up, once you’ve found the platform that’s 100 percent confidential, professional, and strategic when it comes to your job-search needs.
- [Education for a connected world: Preparing students for global careers](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/education-for-a-connected-world-preparing-students-for-global-careers/) - By Shaun Fuchs, Founder of Centennial Schools The world of work is changing fast. Careers no longer sit neatly within a single industry, city, or even country; they span disciplines, time zones, technologies, and cultures. If education is to prepare learners for this reality, it must shift from a narrow focus on content delivery to building
- [From Oversight to Influence: The Expanding Role of the Non-Executive Director](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/from-oversight-to-influence-the-expanding-role-of-the-non-executive-director/) - In South Africa’s evolving corporate landscape, the role of the non-executive director (NED) is undergoing a quiet but significant transformation. Once primarily tasked with oversight and compliance, today’s NED is increasingly expected to contribute meaningfully to strategy, risk navigation, and long-term value creation. This shift reflects both heightened governance expectations and the growing complexity of
- [Why market strategy alone is no longer enough in global business](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-market-strategy-alone-is-no-longer-enough-in-global-business/) - African managers and executives who either have their sights set on working in multinational contexts or who are expanding their companies beyond their home markets are operating in environments where success is not determined by market dynamics alone. International business sits at the intersection of state policy, foreign direct investment, political economy and corporate control.
- [South Africa’s critical minerals boom must not leave communities behind](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-africas-critical-minerals-boom-must-not-leave-communities-behind/) - By Tarisai Placedes Mugunyani, Head of Mining Programme, Centre for Environmental Rights Critical mineral mining is heralded as a bold new step into mining and growing the South African economy. South Africa is positioning itself as an Innovation and Critical Minerals Leader on the Continent. The emphasis is placed on beneficiation, infrastructure readiness and
- [Africa's First Dedicated School of AI](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/africas-first-dedicated-school-of-ai/) - Regenesys Education has launched the continent’s first institution dedicated entirely to artificial intelligence education, on a day when leaders from Microsoft, Cisco, Google and Siemens Healthineers converged to warn that Africa’s window to shape the AI era, rather than inherit it, is open, but not indefinitely. The School of AI is conceived as a dedicated
- [The "Priced for Perfection" Environment in Corporate Credit](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-priced-for-perfection-environment-in-corporate-credit/) - By: Conway Williams, Head of Credit at Prescient Investment Management One of the most critical themes defining the investment landscape as we enter the second quarter of 2026 is the concept of credit being “priced for perfection.” After a strong market rally in 2025, investors now face a challenging environment where asset valuations appear stretched
- [Why unified IT is the future of enterprise operations](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-unified-it-is-the-future-of-enterprise-operations/) - For years, enterprises have solved IT problems by adding tools. A new security gap? Deploy another platform. A monitoring blind spot? Install another dashboard. A collaboration challenge? Introduce another app. Individually, each decision makes sense. But collectively, they create something dangerous: operational fragmentation. Today’s enterprise IT environment is complex and fractured. Identity systems sit apart
- [Is the CV dead? Why AI is forcing SA businesses to rethink hiring](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/is-the-cv-dead-why-ai-is-forcing-sa-businesses-to-rethink-hiring/) - Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the way organisations recruit talent. But while many businesses are experimenting with AI-powered CV screening, digital transformation consultancy DY|DX believes companies may be solving the wrong problem. In fact, the real disruption AI is bringing to hiring may not be automation of recruitment but the decline of the CV itself. “With
- [Are group reporting systems keeping up with South Africa’s fast-moving M&A landscape?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/are-group-reporting-systems-keeping-up-with-south-africas-fast-moving-ma-landscape/) - After a measured few years, mergers and acquisitions activity has regained momentum in South Africa. The country in fact led the continent in deal value in 2025, accounting for roughly 35% of Africa’s total M&A value, while inbound deal value rose by over 40% and outbound activity increased by nearly 85% year on year. Each deal reflects
- [The Agentic AI Era demands new entry-level roles. Are SA companies creating them?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-agentic-ai-era-demands-new-entry-level-roles-are-sa-companies-creating-them/) - By Ursula Fear, Senior Talent Program Manager at Salesforce With all the speculation about AI eliminating entry-level jobs, it is no wonder young South Africans are anxious about launching their careers. This anxiety is entirely understandable. According to the latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey from Statistics South Africa, the official unemployment rate stood at 31.4% in the fourth
- [Humane leadership:  A call to lead with purpose, not power](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/humane-leadership-a-call-to-lead-with-purpose-not-power/) - At a time when global division and uncertainty continue to shape societies, a powerful conversation between global humanitarian Mrs Graça Machel and Judy Sikuza, CEO of The Mandela Rhodes Foundation, is prompting renewed reflection on what leadership should look like today. Hosted by The Mandela Rhodes Foundation and available as a podcast on its website, the discussion
- [Inside the invisible engine powering South African retail](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/inside-the-invisible-engine-powering-south-african-retail/) - When a garment arrives at your door or appears on a shop rack, it represents the culmination of countless decisions, movements and human efforts. Behind every transaction lies an intricate choreography of manufacturing, logistics and distribution – a commercial circulatory system that pulses through warehouses, production lines and delivery routes. At Cape Union Mart International
- [Three AI use cases that work for South African mid-market businesses right now](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/three-ai-use-cases-that-work-for-south-african-mid-market-businesses-right-now/) - Renier Moorcroft, Chief Technical Officer at IPT AI has moved quickly from pilot projects to boardroom discussions across South Africa. For mid-market businesses, the pressure is very real. Costs are rising, teams are stretched, and operational efficiency is no longer optional. What is becoming clear is that most organisations do not need ambitious AI programmes
- [How SA’s new Credit Guarantee Vehicle could unlock private infrastructure capital](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-sas-new-credit-guarantee-vehicle-could-unlock-private-infrastructure-capital/) - By Conway Williams, Head of Credit, Prescient Investment Management Not every multilateral funding announcement warrants a second read. Last month’s announcement did. For those of us who spend our days considering and pricing credit risk in South African markets, the World Bank’s approval of $350 million (cR5.6b) to capitalise South Africa’s new Credit Guarantee Vehicle (CGV)
- [The Hidden Cost of Cash for South Africa’s Small Businesses](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-hidden-cost-of-cash-for-south-africas-small-businesses/) - Byline: Alan Shannon – Nedbank Executive, Private Wealth, Private Clients, Small Business The Shift Towards Digital Payments Across Africa, consumer behaviour is steadily evolving. Increasingly, customers expect the convenience and security of digital payment options. For small businesses, the ability to accept electronic payments is no longer simply a convenience; it is becoming an important
- [Ambitious growth and dealer-focused strategy in play for LDV South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ambitious-growth-and-dealer-focused-strategy-in-play-for-ldv-south-africa/) - With strong competition, particularly from other Chinese automotive brands in South Africa, taking the helm of a Chinese auto brand locally could seem daunting. While he acknowledges the challenging and competitive nature of the industry, Gerhard Moolman, the new CEO of LDV South Africa (Leyland Daf Vans), remains confident in the opportunities for growth. This
- [More Content Won’t Fix a Clarity Problem](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/more-content-wont-fix-a-clarity-problem/) - Most businesses don’t have a content problem. They have a clarity problem that content inevitably exposes. Across industries, brands are publishing more than ever before. Campaigns are live. Channels are full. Internal teams are producing at pace. On paper, this should look like progress. More activity. More visibility. More output. And yet, despite all the effort, the commercial outcomes remain underwhelming. 
- [BME ignites hope, builds resilience, and fosters thriving communities](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/bme-ignites-hope-builds-resilience-and-fosters-thriving-communities/) - BME, a leading blasting solutions specialist, is transforming lives in South Africa’s mining communities through its flagship Blasting Assistant Trainee Programme – a powerful demonstration of how purposeful corporate social investment (CSI) can drive sustainable and inclusive growth. “Rooted in Omnia Holdings’ ethos of creating shared value for communities, our CSI programme focuses on extending
- [Your Life Depends On Fuel. Mostly](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/your-life-depends-on-fuel-mostly/) - By Tim Chadwick Somewhere Near Dubai The Strait of Hormuz, until recently, occupied the same mental real estate for most South Africans as your IT guys two hour sermon on cloud migration versus on premise storage. It was a background hum. An annoying hum, I might add. Technically important, sure. Tedious, definitely. But not really
- [Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator Hosts SA Youth Employer Breakfast in Cape Town](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/harambee-youth-employment-accelerator-hosts-sa-youth-employer-breakfast-in-cape-town/) - On Tuesday, 24 March 2026, Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator, in partnership with the Western Cape’s Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDAT), hosted the SA Youth Employer Breakfast at Makers Landing in Cape Town, bringing together over 130 leaders, employers and policymakers from across sectors to connect and explore how they can access and harness
- [AI, ESG and the rethink of corporate reporting](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ai-esg-and-the-rethink-of-corporate-reporting/) - By Marcella Cave, Head of client service at Bastion Group Corporate reporting underpins transparency, investor protection and market trust. It provides stakeholders with reliable data on performance, risk and governance. The higher the quality of reporting, the more it enables investors to assess profitability, cash flows and risk, while reducing information asymmetry, supporting informed capital allocation and proving
- [A turning tide: Navigating the transition from JIBAR to ZARONIA](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/a-turning-tide-navigating-the-transition-from-jibar-to-zaronia/) - By Riza Moosa, Director, Head of Banking & Finance and Mbali Nene, Associate, Banking & Finance at CMS South Africa The South African financial landscape is currently undergoing one of its most significant structural shifts in decades. As we move toward the permanent discontinuation of the Johannesburg Interbank Average Rate (JIBAR) on 31 December 2026,
- [Unlocking SME Potential: Investee Day provides lessons in entrepreneurial resilience and growth](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/unlocking-sme-potential-investee-day-provides-lessons-in-entrepreneurial-resilience-and-growth/) - From a pair of clippers and a chair on a ‘stoep’ in Eldorado Park, to 80 stores across Southern Africa, the creation of over 800 jobs and an extensive hair care range, this is the story of Legends Barber founder Sheldon Tatchell. Tatchell, the keynote speaker at Edge Growth’s second Investee Day held on 19
- [Africa’s developer surge highlights a gender gap and opportunity](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/africas-developer-surge-highlights-a-gender-gap-and-opportunity/) - Africa’s developer community is expanding faster than anywhere else in the world, new Boston Consulting Group (BCG) analysis shows, underscoring the continent’s growing influence in global technology creation. Although the continent currently has 4.7 million developers – far fewer than regions such as Asia with 73.9 million and Europe with 27.5 million – the talent base has
- [Why most C-suite appointments fail, and what boards can do better](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-most-c-suite-appointments-fail-and-what-boards-can-do-better/) - In boardrooms across South Africa and globally, executive appointments are among the most consequential decisions a company will make. Yet, despite the level of scrutiny and process involved, a significant number of senior hires fail to deliver on expectations within the first 18 to 24 months, says Jeremy Bossenger, director at BossJansen Executive Search. The cost
- [Why African organisations need a fundamentally different approach to strategy](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-african-organisations-need-a-fundamentally-different-approach-to-strategy/) - African organisations are confronted by the same pressures as all other international corporates when it comes to grappling with volatile technological, geopolitical and economic disruptions. However, they are simultaneously navigating unique, regional and local challenges that add more layers of complexity. Dr Jill Bogie, Faculty Lead of the GIBS MPhil specialising in Corporate Strategy programme
- [How real-time data is reshaping SME funding in South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-real-time-data-is-reshaping-sme-funding-in-south-africa/) - David Reynders, CTO at Merchant Capital If you run a small business in South Africa, you are already inside a digital ecosystem. Transactions flow through point-of-sale systems, card machines settle revenue, and accounting software tracks supplier payments and invoices. Every sale, payment, and trading cycle leaves a data trail. However, funding has not always kept
- [Business focus: 4 Essential insurance solutions Every SME should have](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/business-focus-4-essential-insurance-solutions-every-sme-should-have/) - By Etienne Fourie, Chief Sales Officer at BrightRock For South Africa’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs), sustainable growth depends on more than sales and cash flow. Strategic risk management – especially business insurance – is often overlooked, yet it’s one of the most powerful tools for protecting a growing company. According to the FinScope MSME Survey,
- [The 2026 Youth Panel: The Next Shift – A Gen Z and Gen Alpha Conversation](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-2026-youth-panel-the-next-shift-a-gen-z-and-gen-alpha-conversation/) - A 21-year-old entrepreneur advising corporates on Gen Z: Marko Stavrou, the Gen Z Guy and founder of Genlink. A 9-year-old performer, Desmond Koolen, already commanding a global audience. Both will share the stage at the Nedbank IMC 2026, Africa’s biggest marketing conference, in a conversation that highlights how dramatically the drivers of brand growth are
- [Who is investing in Hedge Funds and Why?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/who-is-investing-in-hedge-funds-and-why/) - By Hayden Reinders, Head of Business Development, Prescient Fund Services For most of the past decade, South Africa’s hedge fund industry has been quietly but steadily transforming itself. What began as a corner of the investment market reserved largely for institutional players and high-net-worth individuals has, through smart regulation, growing investor awareness, and consistently strong
- [Why HR Dashboards are now a compliance imperative — Not a “nice to have”](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-hr-dashboards-are-now-a-compliance-imperative-not-a-nice-to-have/) - South Africa’s reward governance landscape is entering one of its most significant periods of change in over a decade. With the Companies Amendment Act of 2024 nearing promulgation, the proposed Fair Pay Wage Bill gaining traction, and the introduction of King V, expectations of HR and Reward teams are shifting rapidly. Put simply, reporting on
- [Separating to elevate growth in business starts with boundaries](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/separating-to-elevate-growth-in-business-starts-with-boundaries/) - Running a business can be exciting, but it also comes with responsibilities that go beyond simply making money. One of the most critical practices for entrepreneurs and business owners is keeping their business and personal affairs, especially finances, separate. This may seem like a minor detail at first, but mixing the two can lead to
- [Cape Town startup Happy Pay raises $5M seed round to scale the first ad-subsidised payments network, to deliver cost-free Buy Now Pay Later payments for SA consumers](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/cape-town-startup-happy-pay-raises-5m-seed-round-to-scale-the-first-ad-subsidised-payments-network-to-deliver-cost-free-buy-now-pay-later-payments-for-sa-consumers/) - Happy Pay, one of Africa’s fastest-growing Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) platforms, has closed a $5 million seed round led by global technology investor Partech. The round saw participation from Futuregrowth Asset Management, 4Di Capital, E4E Africa, Equitable Ventures, Summit Deals, the University Technology Fund and Felix Strategic Investments. The Cape Town-based startup, with more
- [Digital infrastructure is no longer a technology bet - it is an infrastructure asset class](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/digital-infrastructure-is-no-longer-a-technology-bet-it-is-an-infrastructure-asset-class/) - By Albert Oosthuysen, CEO | Net Nine Nine For infrastructure investors focused on South Africa and emerging markets, digital infrastructure is moving into the same strategic category as renewable energy, transport and utilities. The question is no longer whether connectivity matters. The real question is whether fibre and digital networks now warrant a defined position
- [World Water Day: South Africa’s water failures signal the nation’s state of water crisis](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/world-water-day-south-africas-water-failures-signal-the-nations-state-of-water-crisis/) - Leveraging waste management to address this issue Water is the most critical yet threatened resource globally. The UNU, warns long-term water use has exceeded renewable inflows and safe depletion limits. As a result, parts of our natural water capital – including rivers, lakes, aquifers, wetlands, soils, and glaciers – have been damaged beyond realistic prospects of
- [The Procurement Paradox: How the spreadsheet killed the strategic CMO](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-procurement-paradox-how-the-spreadsheet-killed-the-strategic-cmo/) - There is a quiet coup happening in the C-suite. It isn’t being led by a rival brand or a disruptive startup, but by a department two floors down: procurement, writes Pieter Geyser, Commercial Director, Humanz. In the modern corporate machine, marketing, once the engine of growth and the soul of the brand, has been demoted to
- [The power of micro communities: Why Reddit belongs in your media plan](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-power-of-micro-communities-why-reddit-belongs-in-your-media-plan/) - By Natascha Torres, Head of Digital Media Strategy at iqbusiness Social and programmatic platforms such as Google, Meta, TikTok, YouTube and LinkedIn are popular with advertisers for good reasons. They offer proven, cost-effective reach, engaging creative formats, strong track records in conversion performance, and powerful tools for targeting, attribution and optimisation. But their popularity increasingly comes
- [Why Africa is becoming a proving ground for global leaders](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-africa-is-becoming-a-proving-ground-for-global-leaders/) - By Wendy Spalding, Director at Tuesday Consulting and a leading commentator on leadership readiness and executive succession Africa’s accelerating wave of cross-border consolidation is reshaping more than capital flows, it is redefining what effective leadership looks like. Nedbank’s proposed acquisition of a controlling stake in Kenya’s NCBA Group is one example of a broader shift
- [Developing solo entrepreneurs: A Conversation with Georgina Joy Read](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/developing-solo-entrepreneurs-a-conversation-with-georgina-joy-read/) - MATTERS OF FACT QUICKFIRE Q&A WITH PEOPLE WHO MATTER Georgina Joy Read COO Founder of The Hatch and Hustle™ | Creator of PocketCoach™ In this Q&A with South African Business Matters, we meet Georgina Joy Read, Founder of The Hatch and Hustle™ & Creator of PocketCoach™. She shares her journey of developing solo entrepreneurs through
- [Cost-of-Living Anxiety is Reshaping SA Consumer Behaviour](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/cost-of-living-anxiety-is-reshaping-sa-consumer-behaviour/) - By Bonita Christie, Business Unit Director, Publicis Commerce Experiential Before the fuel price increase is announced, South African consumers are already doing the mental arithmetic. They know it is coming. And so, quietly and without fanfare, they begin to edit, not just their spending, but their relationship with brands. The cost-of-living conversation is not new,
- [Housing market brings some stability amid global uncertainty – pre-repo rate comment](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/housing-market-brings-some-stability-amid-global-uncertainty-pre-repo-rate-comment/) - While South Africa’s economy has shown encouraging signs of momentum early this year, escalating tensions in the Middle East have created some uncertainty ahead of next week’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting. Homeowners already facing fuel price pressures and rising living costs linked to tensions between Iran and the United States may also need to
- [Two-Thirds of Leaders View HR as Key Business Driver](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/two-thirds-of-leaders-view-hr-as-key-business-driver/) - Human resources has firmly entered the strategic spotlight with 65% of senior leaders now viewing HR as a key business enabler, driving transformation and value creation. Organisations with stronger HR capabilities report lower turnover and cut the time to fill critical roles by roughly 17-18 days on average compared to peers. Leading CHROs are partnering
- [This Isn’t an Oil Shock. It’s a Credibility Shock](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/this-isnt-an-oil-shock-its-a-credibility-shock/) - By Kristof Kruger Head of Fixed Income Trading at Prescient Securities Markets are trying to price a war. Not the headlines – the duration and more importantly, who carries the cost. The instinctive reaction has been simple: Oil up → inflation up → rates up. That’s directionally right. But it misses the point. Because inflation is
- [The true cost of waiting and why it can be the most expensive thing a company can ever do](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-true-cost-of-waiting-and-why-it-can-be-the-most-expensive-thing-a-company-can-ever-do/) - For most organisations, the cost of employee health problems only becomes visible once something has already gone wrong. An employee goes on extended sick leave. A team’s productivity dips. Claims begin to rise. By that point, the financial impact is already underway. Yet the pressures that lead to these outcomes rarely appear overnight. Stress accumulates
- [Why are SA businesses still treating waste as a disposal problem rather than an engineered operational system](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-are-sa-businesses-still-treating-waste-as-a-disposal-problem-rather-than-an-engineered-operational-system/) - South Africa has significant improvements to make concerning the country’s waste management. According to the DFFE, it is estimated that the nation generates around 122 million tonnes of waste annually and 90% of that goes to landfills. Industry estimates that only 10% of the country’s waste is diverted, mainly through recycling. Comparative statistics indicate that
- [Bridging the Digital Divide: Telkom Connects Learners to Possibility at Sitoza Senior Secondary School](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/bridging-the-digital-divide-telkom-connects-learners-to-possibility-at-sitoza-senior-secondary-school/) - In today’s increasingly digital world, connecting South African learners is about more than access to the internet, it’s about unlocking opportunities, expanding knowledge and enabling new possibilities for the future. Building a digitally fluent and future-ready workforce in South Africa requires closing the technology access gap in schools, especially in under-resourced and rural communities. Supporting
- [The essential tech trends for African SMEs](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-essential-tech-trends-for-african-smes/) - by Dumi Moyo, Marketing Director at SAP Africa In 2026, African small and midsize enterprises (SMEs) will be defined by their digital capabilities. Foundational capabilities such as cloud, business AI, and ERP running on clean-core data strategies will be measured not only by their adoption and use within the business, but how quickly and effectively they can
- [The Attention Economy: A Call for Professionalism and Sustainability](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-attention-economy-a-call-for-professionalism-and-sustainability/) - The Imperative for True Engagement in the Creator Economy Our industry currently faces a critical challenge: the valuation of marketing efforts based on misleading metrics. We have, for too long, accepted a product – branded content – whose value proposition is built on an illusion of “authenticity.” This has led to a fixation on content that
- [Ransomware is shifting targets, and many organisations are not prepared](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ransomware-is-shifting-targets-and-many-organisations-are-not-prepared/) - Ransomware attacks are evolving rapidly, moving beyond the simple encryption of files to target the systems organisations rely on to recover from an attack. According to Phila May, Executive GTM at inq. Digital, this shift is forcing technology leaders to rethink how they approach resilience. “Ransomware used to be about locking files and demanding payment
- [Personal Growth drives Engagement: Why Coaching is no longer a luxury but a business imperative](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/personal-growth-drives-engagement-why-coaching-is-no-longer-a-luxury-but-a-business-imperative/) - Disengagement is a business risk, not a mood Competitors cannot replicate an engaged, supported and psychologically safe workforce. In an environment where others can replicate products, technology and even strategy, business seeks the competitive edge. How to do this remains a deliberate leadership imperative: how engaged are your employees. Disengagement is rarely dramatic. It does
- [SA schools must embrace international benchmarking to increase access to quality education](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/sa-schools-must-embrace-international-benchmarking-to-increase-access-to-quality-education/) - Access to quality education is a cornerstone of individual empowerment and national development. In an increasingly globalised and competitive world, South African students must be equipped not only with local knowledge, but with skills that stand up to international scrutiny. And with only around 55% of South African learners who start Grade 1 ultimately passing
- [ASAPP expands membership and strengthens regulatory voice for South Africa’s fintech payment providers](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/asapp-expands-membership-and-strengthens-regulatory-voice-for-south-africas-fintech-payment-providers/) - The Association of South African Payment Providers (ASAPP) has expanded its membership from eight to 15 companies within its first year of operations, strengthening its role as a collective voice for fintech payment providers. Since launching last January, ASAPP has been actively contributing to industry and regulatory dialogues focusing on lowering the cost of payments
- [Learning Poverty Rate and Educational Outcomes in South Africa (Part 2)](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/learning-poverty-rate-and-educational-outcomes-in-south-africa-part-2/) - By Dr Darius Sangari PhD, Director of Sangari Education The learning poverty rate (LPR) is a key indicator of a country’s long-term investment in education. It measures the percentage of children at age 10 who cannot read and understand a simple text. Reading is a foundational skill: learners first learn to read, and later read
- [South Africa’s growth recovery faces a race against time](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-africas-growth-recovery-faces-a-race-against-time/) - South Africa’s economy grew by 1.1% in 2025, up from just 0.5% the previous year, but still below the 1.4% growth many economists had expected. While the figures show that the economy is beginning to recover, they also underline how fragile that progress remains. According to Annatjie van Rooyen, Chief Economist at Regenesys and CEO
- [The Silent Partner in Every Business – You](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-silent-partner-in-every-business-you/) - Have you ever stared down the barrel of your business, trying to figure out why things just aren’t moving? I have. After fifteen years of running my own ventures — from teaching to training to technology — I’ve come to recognise a repeating pattern. Every time I hit a ceiling, I’d go out and learn
- [South Africa’s Economy in Motion: Wise Move Releases 2025 Migration Report](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-africas-economy-in-motion-wise-move-releases-2025-migration-report/) - Wise Move, South Africa’s leading tech-enabled moving platform, has released its inaugural 2025 Migration Report, offering new insight into the residential and economic mobility patterns shaping the country. The report is based on proprietary data from over 15,000 moves completed during 2024 via the Wise Move platform. Chante Venter, co-founder & CEO at Wise Move,
- [What to watch for in construction this year](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/what-to-watch-for-in-construction-this-year/) - Morag Evans, CEO of Databuild In a recent webinar on South Africa’s construction sector, I was struck by how familiar the themes were, and how urgent they have become. The panel covered everything from interest rates and infrastructure backlogs to contractual disputes and green lubricants. While construction remains one of the most powerful levers for
- [NIQ State of the Retail Nation: South African FMCG retail lifted by economic tailwinds](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/niq-state-of-the-retail-nation-south-african-fmcg-retail-lifted-by-economic-tailwinds/) - NielsenIQ (NIQ) South Africa has released its State of the Retail Nation analysis* for the calendar year of 2025, showing healthy growth in retail sales value and volume. South African consumers spent nearly R683.3 billion on fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) through traditional and modern trade channels during the year under review. This represents year-over-year value
- [Common mistakes South Africans make when moving money offshore](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/common-mistakes-south-africans-make-when-moving-money-offshore/) - Most people start an offshore transfer by checking a rate online: if it looks “good enough”, they typically turn to their bank to transfer their funds. When the funds land and the amount is noticeably lower than expected, they blame it on banking admin or processing fees. That’s only partially correct. In reality, the shortfall
- [The economic implications of the high rate of Stunting in Children on the economy of South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-economic-implications-of-the-high-rate-of-stunting-in-children-on-the-economy-of-south-africa/) - Growth stunting in children is one of the most significant public health and development challenges facing South Africa. Affecting an estimated one in four children under five (UNICEF, WHO & World Bank Group, 2025), stunting is a biological marker of chronic undernutrition with far-reaching consequences. It is not merely a health issue but a profound
- [The Golden Years on Credit: Financial behaviours of an aging population – deep dive into 2025 Q4 Credit Data](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-golden-years-on-credit-financial-behaviours-of-an-aging-population-deep-dive-into-2025-q4-credit-data/) - The number of South Africans in their ‘golden years’ is growing and accelerating. Census data shows adults aged 65+ increased from ~2.8m in 2011 to ~4m in 2022, a 43% rise against total populationgrowth of just 19%. By 2070, the 60+ age group is projected to be the second most populous age category in the country. There are
- [Learning to communicate early shapes future success](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/learning-to-communicate-early-shapes-future-success/) - By Caroline Miller, Principal: Foundation Phase at Centennial Schools Foundation Phase education is often framed as the place where learners learn to read, write, and count. Yet beneath these visible milestones lies a more fundamental skill that determines whether or not these abilities take root: communication. Listening, speaking, understanding, questioning, and expressing ideas form the
- [Why building sustainable businesses matters more than growth in today's economy](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-building-sustainable-businesses-matters-more-than-growth-in-todays-economy/) - In South Africa’s operating climate, sustainability is the difference between survival and closure of any business. Karabo Makete, Partner and Investment Principal at Aions Ventures, says that building a sustainable business means designing it for resilience from day one. “A business must be able to survive changes in the economy, shifts in the market, and
- [Women in Africa's creative industries are powering the shift from extraction to innovation](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/women-in-africas-creative-industries-are-powering-the-shift-from-extraction-to-innovation/) - BCG analysis finds that investing in women-led creative enterprises can unlock significant value, jobs, and export growth across Africa. Africa is home to the world’s youngest and fastest growing population, with nearly 890 million people under the age of 25. This youth cohort represents both a powerful source of demand and a deep pool of creative talent. In its latest report, Africa’s Next Growth Frontier: Empowering Women
- [Skills development is a growth strategy, not a “nice-to-have”](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/skills-development-is-a-growth-strategy-not-a-nice-to-have/) - By Stefan Botha, CEO, Optimi Group South Africa’s skills conversation has regained momentum in recent weeks, with workplace-linked learning even referenced in the President’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) last month. But the bigger point is this: the real-world pressure on skills development is no longer coming from policy speeches; it’s coming from the
- [The Paradox of Leadership](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-paradox-of-leadership/) - Insights by CEO, Ntombizone Feni I did not expect “cognitive dissonance” to become one of the most accurate leadership terms in my vocabulary, but here we are. On the one hand, I carry deep pride in how far 21st Century has come. On the other, I feel the weight of what it takes to operationalise
- [Microsoft releases Cyber Pulse, a new briefing on Agentic AI](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/microsoft-releases-cyber-pulse-a-new-briefing-on-agentic-ai/) - Microsoft’s Cyber Pulse briefing highlights the rise of unsanctioned AI agents and the urgent need for observability and Zero Trust governance, revealing a growing visibility gap that puts businesses at risk Microsoft released Cyber Pulse, a new digital briefing for business leaders that examines how the security landscape is evolving with AI. The briefing focuses on
- [Context is everything: Why every executive’s most important job has just changed](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/context-is-everything-why-every-executives-most-important-job-has-just-changed/) - By Francois van der Merwe, Founder & CEO, Otinga.io If you’re leading a large organisation in 2026, you can feel the ground shifting under your feet. Not because the rules have changed, or because a new competitor launched a shiny product, but because the underlying economics of advantage are being rewritten in real time. Intelligence
- [Research shows unsecured credit is mainly used for emergencies, renovations and education](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/research-shows-unsecured-credit-is-mainly-used-for-emergencies-renovations-and-education/) - The way people use credit often reveals more about their economic reality than income statistics ever could. And, in an economy where financial shocks are routine, unsecured credit increasingly acts as a stabiliser rather than a tool for occasional splurges. Research by specialist loans provider DirectAxis shows that South Africans typically apply for personal loans
- [Don't Give Up on the Law: Why Small Legal Victories Still Matter](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/dont-give-up-on-the-law-why-small-legal-victories-still-matter/) - By Matome Kapa, Programme Head, Advocacy, Support and Training, Centre for Environmental Rights Last week, I was speaking to one of the graduates of CER’s Rights & Remedies Course. What she told me inspired this piece. She is from Free State Province. There was a serious sewer problem in her ward — sewage flowing into the street, affecting
- [Why investors should act quickly as new tax year opens](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-investors-should-act-quickly-as-new-tax-year-opens/) - By: Niki Giles, Head of Strategy at Prescient fund services South Africa’s 2026 National Budget may not have delivered headline‑grabbing tax hikes or shock adjustments, but for savers and long‑term investors it represents one of the most meaningful packages of tax‑efficient enhancements in several years. With the new tax year kicking off on 1 March,
- [Rare Disease Day 2026 puts equity for patients in the spotlight](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/rare-disease-day-2026-puts-equity-for-patients-in-the-spotlight/) - Rare diseases each affect relatively small numbers of people, but collectively they impact more than 300 million individuals worldwide across over 7,000 known conditions, with 70% of these starting in childhood.1 For many patients and families, the reality is often long diagnostic journeys, uncertainty and ongoing challenges in accessing treatment and support. This year’s global Rare
- [The Budget Speech through a Data Lens: What it means for South Africans](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-budget-speech-through-a-data-lens-what-it-means-for-south-africans/) - Eighty20, South Africa’s leading consumer analytics, strategy and research company analysed the Budget Speech using a combination of economic and secondary data sources – including MAPS, BrandMapp, Credit Bureau, the Labour Force Survey to offer a meaningful perspective on what it means for real South Africans. We examine six key areas: unemployment, education, health, debt, social grants, and transport. Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana’s started his speech harking back to the
- [Why 96% of Debt-Stressed South Africans Turn to Personal Loans – And What This Really Means](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-96-of-debt-stressed-south-africans-turn-to-personal-loans-and-what-this-really-means/) - By Thabo Mthembu | Contributor to LoanHub24 When SABM reported that South Africans are now directing 71% of their take-home pay toward debt servicing, the statistic rightly triggered alarm. It tells us where the economy has landed. What it doesn’t tell us is what happens next — the decisions that follow when the numbers stop
- [Collaboration in the mining industry is the foundation of inclusive local growth](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/collaboration-in-the-mining-industry-is-the-foundation-of-inclusive-local-growth/) - By Shamiso Chideme (Head of Clients, Tshikululu Social Investments) and Richard Pfaff (Head of Social Impact, Tshikululu Social Investments) The Investing in African Mining Indaba 2026 brought together key players to engage on the subjects most relevant to the future of the mining industry in Africa. Among other critical areas of discussion – from energy
- [The water deal is already on your balance sheet — Budget 2026 just made it impossible to ignore](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-water-deal-is-already-on-your-balance-sheet-budget-2026-just-made-it-impossible-to-ignore/) - By Dean Muruven, Associate Director, BCG South Africa South Africa’s water crisis has shifted from a service delivery challenge to a material economic constraint. It is increasingly shaping investment decisions, threatening supply chains, and eroding confidence in the country’s growth trajectory. The State of the Nation Address signalled a turning point: a structural shift in
- [New approaches to trust, ethics, compliance needed for AI agents](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/new-approaches-to-trust-ethics-compliance-needed-for-ai-agents/) - by Sunil Geness, Director of Global Government Affairs and Corporate Social Responsibility, SAP Africa Artificial intelligence is entering a new era. The rise of AI agents is changing how we use AI, from generating content and answering questions, to planning tasks, coordinating workflows, and making decisions with minimal human involvement. This shift from passive assistance to autonomous
- [Navigating opportunity and risk in south africa and africa's capital markets](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/navigating-opportunity-and-risk-in-south-africa-and-africas-capital-markets/) - As South Africa and the broader African continent enter a period marked by political transitions, shifting global capital flows and renewed investor interest, Tamela, a leading boutique investment, corporate finance advisory and fund management firm, believes the next 12 months present a mix of opportunity and risk across investment and capital markets. Pending elections fuel
- [Why long-term skills development matters more than ever](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-long-term-skills-development-matters-more-than-ever/) - Across South Africa’s technology sector, digital transformation, automation and AI are reshaping roles faster than traditional education systems can keep pace. The question is no longer whether work will change, but whether people are being equipped to grow alongside it. Increasingly, businesses recognise that sustainable growth depends on more than recruitment. It requires learning pathways
- [Pens before programming: early literacy matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/pens-before-programming-early-literacy-matters/) - South Africa faces a crisis in its foundational schooling years. A 2023 report shows that 81% of Grade 4 learners cannot read for meaning in any language and, by Grade 6, almost 70% of learners still have not developed grade-level reading skills. The implications stretch far beyond reading and writing: without this foundation, learners struggle to grasp
- [Nedbank IMC 2025 White Paper captures the moment where marketing meets meaning](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/nedbank-imc-2025-white-paper-captures-the-moment-where-marketing-meets-meaning/) - Following another record-breaking Nedbank IMC Conference, which this year welcomed over 3 000 delegates from 20 countries – its largest audience to date – the organisers have released the official 2025 Nedbank IMC White Paper. The publication captures the insights, trends, and bold ideas that defined this year’s conference and continue to shape Africa’s marketing
- [Fraud Attacks Are Escalating Faster Than Business Defences, Reveals New Experian Report](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/fraud-attacks-are-escalating-faster-than-business-defences-reveals-new-experian-report/) - South African businesses are facing an unprecedented and rapidly evolving threat from fraud, with two-thirds (66%) reporting a surge in losses over the past year, according to new research commissioned by Experian, a global leader in data and technology. The study, conducted by Forrester Consulting, reveals a critical defence gap: as cybercrime networks expand and leverage
- [The Transformation Fund’s Achilles heel - procurement requirements put business at risk](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-transformation-funds-achilles-heel-procurement-requirements-put-business-at-risk/) - At the end of January, the dtic gazetted changes to the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) codes of good practice that introduced a fundamental reset of the procurement scorecard and its interaction with the recently proposed Transformation Fund. The Transformation Fund was initially expected to enable businesses to contribute 3% of net profit after tax
- [The Key to 3 Million Jobs? Empowering Entrepreneurs to Move Beyond Survival](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-key-to-3-million-jobs-empowering-entrepreneurs-to-move-beyond-survival/) - Jordaan Burger, Managing Director, Sage AME In his State of the Nation Address, President Ramaphosa set out a vision with the potential to unite South Africans around a shared goal: job creation at scale. He highlighted that if every small and medium-sized business (SMB) employed just one additional person, up to three million new jobs
- [How Franc is making investing simple and accessible](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-franc-is-making-investing-simple-and-accessible/) - Franc, a digital wealth platform on a mission to simplify investing, is empowering South Africans to make smarter financial decisions and grow their money. Leveraging cutting-edge technology and innovative products to bridge the gap between saving and investing, the ultimate goal is to empower users to achieve financial freedom. Helping more South Africans grow their money In
- [Explore AfriForum’s Documentary: "Running Dry – A Nation on the Brink"](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/explore-afriforums-documentary-running-dry-a-nation-on-the-brink/) - South Africa is grappling with a severe water crisis, compounded by frequent pollution of its already scarce natural water sources. This documentary, Running Dry – A Nation on the Brink, sheds light on the urgent issue of water security in our country. It highlights the challenges of unsafe drinking water, regular supply interruptions, and the
- [5 Levers of Valuation That Will Impact The Sale of Your Business](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/5-levers-of-valuation-that-will-impact-the-sale-of-your-business/) - Unlock the Secrets to Building a Sellable Business In just under 90 seconds, Aurik co-founder and CEO Pavlo Phitidis highlights why it’s crucial for business owners to start focusing on their business’s value now. Discover key insights on how to build and enhance your business to become a valuable, sellable asset when it’s time to
- [Why do you do what you do?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-do-you-do-what-you-do/) - In this week’s edition of This Week@Work, we explore the power of purpose. Pavlo Phitidis had the pleasure of visiting a thriving tea company that proudly showcases their original tea sorter—an ingenious DIY creation from a modified cement mixer—in their reception area. This display serves as a powerful reminder of their heritage and journey. When
- [Embrace Imposter Syndrome](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/embrace-imposter-syndrome/) - If you’re at the helm of a business, you’ve likely felt it—imposter syndrome! But here’s the twist: that feeling doesn’t mean you’re unqualified; it means you’re aiming high. Today, we’ll dive into how you can harness that self-doubt to propel you forward instead of letting it hold you back. Let’s turn imposter syndrome from a
- [To be your best, get the best on board](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/to-be-your-best-get-the-best-on-board/) - This Week@Work, top performers across sport, business and any other aspect of life surround themselves with the people who can bring out the best in them. You should too. Aurik Business To be your best, get the best on board Join the SABM Community and stay updated with the latest from Aurik
- [Why women-led businesses need more than compliance to succeed](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-women-led-businesses-need-more-than-compliance-to-succeed-2/) - Kerryn Campion, COO at Aions Ventures There is no arguing the fact that trade finance does not necessarily sound sexy. But for the women we work with, it is the difference between a good idea and a growing business. At Aions, we have seen first-hand what happens when you back a woman with a
- [HEALA Chew On This Episode 1: How is big food violating our right to nutritious food?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/heala-chew-on-this-episode-1-how-is-big-food-violating-our-right-to-nutritious-food/) - Episode 1: Understanding South Africa’s Food Crisis Join us as we unravel the intricate web of challenges within South Africa’s food system. In this eye-opening episode, we delve into the stark realities of high levels of hunger, food insecurity, and obesity plaguing the nation. These issues are not isolated; they stem from the systemic flaws
- [HEALA Chew On This Episode 2: Is Big Food feeding us lies?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/heala-chew-on-this-episode-2-is-big-food-feeding-us-lies/) - Episode 2: Is Big Food feeding us lies through their marketing of Ultra-Processed Products? We’re turning the spotlight on a crucial issue that affects our future—how Big Food’s marketing tactics are shaping the diets and health of our youth. In this eye-opening episode, we dive deep into the world of ultra-processed products and the powerful
- [HEALA Chew On This Episode 3: How is Big Food Stalking Our Children?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/heala-chew-on-this-episode-3-how-is-big-food-stalking-our-children/) - Third episode of web series, Chew on This, looks into aggressive food marketing targeting children and calls on viewers to sign petition. “My name is Vuyiseka Mangele and I’m the mother of Mihlayonke. At just five years old, my daughter now prefers Coco Pops and similar sugary cereals, largely influenced by the packaging and ads
- [HEALA Chew On This Episode 4: Is the Sugar Industry Lying to Us?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/heala-chew-on-this-episode-4-is-the-sugar-industry-lying-to-us/) - The fourth episode of the Healthy Living Alliance’s (HEALA) thought-provoking web series, Chew on This, is now available. Titled “Is the Sugar Industry Lying to Us?”, this episode critically examines the Health Promotion Levy (HPL) on sugary beverages, introduced to reduce sugar consumption and improve public health. The panel of experts explores whether the sugar
- [HEALA Chew On This Episode 5: What is government doing with the Health Promotion Levy?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/heala-chew-on-this-episode-5-what-is-government-doing-with-the-health-promotion-levy/) - The finale of the Chew on This series, titled ‘How Can the Health Promotion Levy Support and Expand Social Protection?’ is now available on Healthy Living Alliance’s (HEALA) YouTube channel. This discussion will be released ahead of South Africa’s 2025 Budget Speech, bringing into sharp focus the Health Promotion Levy (HPL) and its potential to drive social change.
- [Welcome Back: Why Most B2B Content Gets Ignored (And How to Start the Year Differently)](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-most-b2b-content-gets-ignored/) - It’s that time again. The inboxes are filling. Calendars are refilling. Teams are slowly shaking off the festive haze and finding their rhythm. Many businesses are “back” but the real question isn’t just about getting back to work. It’s about how you show up. Because here’s the truth: most B2B content doesn’t land. It gets
- [Cross-border set-offs and South African exchange control: a risk multinationals cannot ignore](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/cross-border-set-offs-and-south-african-exchange-control-a-risk-multinationals-cannot-ignore/) - By Esther Geldenhuys and Julie Oppenheim, Partners, and Robyn Berger, Tax Executive, Bowmans Multinational enterprises (MNEs) doing business in South Africa should take note of an aspect of the country’s Exchange Control Regulations, 1961, that is frequently overlooked – settling cross-border obligations by way of set-off without prior regulatory approval is prohibited in the
- [South African consumers reset the rules for FMCG in 2026](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-african-consumers-reset-the-rules-for-fmcg-in-2026/) - By Zak Haeri, MD for South Africa at NIQ South African consumers entered 2026 with a mindset shaped by prolonged uncertainty. Years of rising living costs and constant adjustment have fundamentally changed how people shop, plan and prioritise. A perfect storm of economic volatility, new consumer expectations and rapidly evolving lifestyle choices will redefine the
- [Why Local Adaptation is Key to Transforming Classrooms](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-local-adaptation-is-key-to-transforming-classrooms/) - By Niall McNulty, AI Product & Innovation Leader, Cambridge University Press & Assessment The opportunities that artificial intelligence (AI) offer African teachers and students are immense; the AI education market in the Middle East and Africa is projected to hit $1.7 billion by 2030. Yet in Sub-Saharan Africa, where student–teacher ratios can reach 50:1 and many
- [A lament for South African healthcare: There is another way](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/a-lament-for-south-african-healthcare-there-is-another-way/) - By Dr Dumisani Bomela, Chief Executive Officer of the Hospital Association of South Africa There’s an old African idiom: “When elephants fight, the grass suffers.” The “elephants”, however, are two interdependent players in healthcare: the government, which is pushing for the National Health Insurance (NHI), and private healthcare providers and funders, who have long raised
- [From hidden bias to algorithmic exclusion: The rising tide of ageism in ai recruitment](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/from-hidden-bias-to-algorithmic-exclusion-the-rising-tide-of-ageism-in-ai-recruitment/) - Ageism remains one of the last widely accepted and largely overlooked forms of bias in modern workplaces. While discrimination based on race, gender, and other protected characteristics has faced increasing scrutiny and accountability, age-related prejudice – particularly against ‘mature’ candidates – continues to persist, and is often justified or ignored. And now, as AI tools
- [The Great Generational Handover: Why South Africa’s Middle Managers Are the Hinge of 2026 and Beyond](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-great-generational-handover-why-south-africas-middle-managers-are-the-hinge-of-2026-and-beyond/) - “If the workplace were a relay race, South Africa is executing the most precarious baton change in history: mid-stride, into a howling headwind of economic pressure and technological disruption, while half the runners are glued to their phones and a voice from the stand’s shouts “AI!” at maximum volume. “That is not hyperbole. It is
- [Practical steps to building a data foundation for business AI](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/practical-steps-to-building-a-data-foundation-for-business-ai/) - By Wayne Meisel, Chief of Staff & Senior Business Manager at SAP Africa As more South African organisations accelerate their adoption of artificial intelligence, they are confronted by a familiar obstacle: the data simply isn’t ready. AI can only perform as well as the information that powers it, and in many businesses that information remains
- [Budget 2026: 7 Compliance Shifts South African SMBs Should Prepare For](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/budget-2026-7-compliance-shifts-south-african-smbs-should-prepare-for/) - By Yolandi Esterhuizen, Director of Global Product Compliance, Sage South Africa’s 2026 Budget Speech may deliver important fiscal signals, but for many businesses, its most lasting impact will be less about policy announcements and more about how compliance is enforced. The real shift lies in the growing move toward stricter, system-driven compliance. With public finances
- [When commodity optimism collides with manufacturing reality in South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/when-commodity-optimism-collides-with-manufacturing-reality-in-south-africa/) - Author Raindren Moodley, Executive: Advisory Services at Ariston Global South Africa entered 2026 with renewed confidence in the commodity cycle. Stronger platinum and gold prices, together with rising global demand for future-facing metals such as copper, have lifted sentiment across the sector and reinforced the country’s long-standing connection to mining and resource development. For many
- [Investec launches Invest-ED as youth jobs take centre stage after SONA](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/investec-launches-invest-ed-as-youth-jobs-take-centre-stage-after-sona/) - Investec has launched Invest-ED, a national programme designed to support South Africa’s grade 8 to 12 learners and their parents or guardians, with guidance, confidence and future-focused thinking, to drive more meaningful participation in the economy. The Invest-ED launch took place on the eve of the 2026 State of the Nation Address. The address subsequently
- [Annual check-ups will keep your investments healthy](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/annual-check-ups-will-keep-your-investments-healthy/) - Hint: it’s not just about saving more of your income Between the upcoming mid-term budget policy statement and corporate financial year-end, now is an ideal time for South Africans to check the health of their retirement investments. As with all planning and budgets, the trick is weighing long-term costs against actual performance, experts say. Andre
- [SONA 2026: A shift towards systemic reform](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/sona-2026-a-shift-towards-systemic-reform/) - By Tshikululu Social Investments In the year following South Africa’s G20 Presidency, President Ramaphosa’s 2026 State of the Nation Address offered a sobering but optimistic reflection on the country’s trajectory. It highlighted meaningful economic progress while underscoring the scale of the journey still ahead. Most importantly, it reinforced a critical shift in how South Africa’s
- [Why franchising remains a lower-risk path for SMEs in 2026?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-franchising-remains-a-lower-risk-path-for-smes-in-2026/) - As the year begins, it’s important to observe the South Africa’s evolving franchise landscape. Whether you’re an experienced franchisee or a first-time entrepreneur, the franchise business model offers meaningful growth opportunities, while also presenting its own set of challenges. Franchising already contributes an estimated 15% of South Africa’s GDP and employs approximately 500,000 people across food, retail,
- [The AI-literate leader: a boardroom non-negotiable in 2026](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-ai-literate-leader-a-boardroom-non-negotiable-in-2026/) - AI is no longer a side project or a future innovation agenda item, in most firms, it is already embedded in day-to-day tasks. From drafting client emails and summarising meetings, enabling research and analysis, product development as well as operational reporting. The board-level question has moved on from “should we invest?” to something more like,
- [Strong starts matter: the case for literacy and numeracy in early schooling](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/strong-starts-matter-the-case-for-literacy-and-numeracy-in-early-schooling/) - South Africa’s matric class of 2025 achieved a historic 88% pass rate, the highest ever recorded. Yet beneath this milestone lies a stark truth: many pupils who begin school never make it to that finish line. 2018 research suggests that by the time students reach Grade 12, barely half of the age-cohort remain enrolled, underscoring a persistent literacy
- [Microsoft Online Safety Survey - building a safer digital future, together](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/microsoft-online-safety-survey-building-a-safer-digital-future-together/) - Following Safer Internet Day, Microsoft has released its annual Global Online Safety Survey. This year marks the 10th year Microsoft has invested in surveying teens and adults around the world about their experiences and perceptions of life online. Continuing to evolve the survey as the world changes, this year’s questions focused on the complexity of the digital environment
- [A balancing act: Navigating innovation and stability in South Africa’s fintech sector](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/a-balancing-act-navigating-innovation-and-stability-in-south-africas-fintech-sector/) - By Andre van den Berg, Director, Banking and Finance at CMS South Africa The South African financial landscape is currently experiencing a surge in digital adoption and a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit. The fintech sector has transitioned from a niche disruptor to a cornerstone of our digital economy. But as we stand on the cusp of
- [How rapid payments fit into South Africa’s modernising payment architecture](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-rapid-payments-fit-into-south-africas-modernising-payment-architecture/) - Steven Maier, Chief Brand Officer at Amplifin In public conversation, rapid payments are often treated as a single product. However, in the National Payment System (NPS), rapid payments are better understood as a family of real-time payment behaviours that can occur across multiple rails, each with its own cost, timing, and operational profile. From the
- [New industry report highlights mounting challenges in hospitality sector as staffing shortages, rising costs and weak support slows recovery](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/new-industry-report-highlights-mounting-challenges-in-hospitality-sector-as-staffing-shortages-rising-costs-and-weak-support-slows-recovery/) - South Africa’s hospitality sector is facing growing concerns that threaten its long term stability and growth, according to the inaugural Hospitality Asset Management Company (HAMAC) South African Hoteliers ReportReport, released today. The Report reveals that 77% of hoteliers identify human capital as one of the biggest obstacles to business sustainability, while 58% say profitability has
- [SA Digital Agency TDMC responds to landmark IPA influencer marketing study – local brands can’t afford to Ignore creator-led strategy](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/sa-digital-agency-tdmc-responds-to-landmark-ipa-influencer-marketing-study-local-brands-cant-afford-to-ignore-creator-led-strategy/) - Leading South African digital media agency TDMC (The Digital Media Collective) has welcomed the findings of the Institute of Practitioners in Advertising’s (IPA) groundbreaking study. The United Kingdom’s professional body for advertising, media and marketing communications agencies published “The ROI of Influence” in October 2025, revealing some fascinating data, much of which the TDMC team agrees
- [Debt Index: Confidence up, but costs outpace income growth](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/debt-index-confidence-up-but-costs-outpace-income-growth/) - Although some positive developments have boosted consumers’ financial confidence going into 2026, over the past decade, increasing expenses have significantly outpaced income growth, and record numbers of consumers now rely on high-interest personal loans to make ends meet. These were some of the findings from DebtBusters’ 2025 Q4 Debt Index, which marks its tenth anniversary
- [The Nedbank IMC announces its 2026 conference and calls marketers to lead the next era](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-nedbank-imc-announces-its-2026-conference-and-calls-marketers-to-lead-the-next-era/) - The Nedbank IMC, Africa’s biggest marketing conference, has officially announced its 2026 event, anchored by the theme SHIFT HAPPENS™. ARE YOU READY? – a direct challenge to marketers, business leaders and agencies navigating one of the fastest periods of change the industry has ever faced. Taking place on 17 September 2026 at Mosaïek, Johannesburg, with
- [SA COMPANIES ARE TRAINING FOR YESTERDAY'S ECONOMY](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/sa-companies-are-training-for-yesterdays-economy/) - By Linda Coetzee, Director and Head of Strategic Business Development, Regenesys Corporate South Africa keeps asking why talent is disengaged, why innovation is slow and why teams freeze in the face of disruption. The answer is brutally simple. Too many organisations are preparing their people for a world that no longer exists. They are
- [Why discipline will matter more than predictions in 2026](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-discipline-will-matter-more-than-predictions-in-2026/) - Etienne Viljoen, Chief Investment Officer, Aurora Capital Investors enter 2026 carrying the scars of a volatile year. Markets have moved rapidly between fear and optimism. Policy signals have shifted. Narratives around inflation, interest rates, AI, and geopolitical risk have all competed for attention. The temptation is to chase certainty where little exists. Instead, the more
- [Agentic AI takes centre stage for CIOs in 2026 (Lenovo Report)](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/agentic-ai-takes-centre-stage-for-cios-in-2026-lenovo-report/) - Enterprises have moved decisively from AI pilots to scaled implementations, driven by proven benefits and expectations of significant financial returns, according to the Lenovo Europe & Middle East CIO Playbook 2026 with research insights by IDC. Nearly half (46%) of AI proof-of-concepts have already progressed into production, with organisations projecting average returns of $2.78 for
- [Matric results highlight unemployment challenge as SMEs grapple for funding](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/matric-results-highlight-unemployment-challenge-as-smes-grapple-for-funding/) - With the 2025 matric results now released, a new cohort of young South Africans faces entry into a labour market that remains deeply constrained. South Africa’s official unemployment rate recently stood at about 32.9%, one of the highest globally, even before new school leavers entered the workforce. Youth unemployment remains particularly severe, with nearly half of young people
- [From Insight to Action: The Power of Engagement Surveys](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/from-insight-to-action-the-power-of-engagement-surveys/) - From Measurement to Momentum: How Engagement Surveys Can Revive Organisational Energy “Employee engagement surveys are often viewed as a “nice-to-have” initiative or a routine annual HR ritual. In reality, they are one of the most powerful diagnostic tools available to leadership. When leveraged correctly, they allow organisations to detect, diagnose and address workplace stagnation,
- [How Sustainability Fits Into Sappi’s Business Strategy](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-sustainability-fits-into-sappis-business-strategy/) - Sappi Limited – a diversified industrial business utilising renewable resources to produce woodfibre-based products for global markets – is proud to announce the publication of its FY2025 Group Annual Integrated and Sustainability Reports. They lay out Sappi’s progress in delivering its Thrive strategy as well as its sustainability pillars related to Prosperity, People, Planet and
- [How South African businesses can unlock ROI from investment into AI](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-south-african-businesses-can-unlock-roi-from-investment-into-ai/) - Artificial Intelligence has reached a tipping point. Globally, the AI market is expected to surpass $1.8 trillion by 2030, with generative AI alone attracting nearly $34 billion in private investment this year. Companies across sectors are racing to embed AI into operations, but proving return on investment (ROI) remains a key hurdle. While 84% of
- [Private market investments and the umbrella fund challenge](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/private-market-investments-and-the-umbrella-fund-challenge/) - For many large employers offering retirement benefits, umbrella funds are a cornerstone of capital stability and growth. By pooling resources from multiple employers, these funds deliver economies of scale, professional governance, and administrative efficiencies that standalone corporate funds often cannot match. However, as Raazia Ganie, Executive Head of Investments at NMG Benefits, notes, decisions to join
- [Transforming customer loyalty into lasting growth](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/transforming-customer-loyalty-into-lasting-growth/) - By Len Lubbe, CEO at LoyaltyPlus For years, loyalty was treated as a marketing layer. It has been a case of points in, discounts out, and putting together a quarterly report that showed activity but not much else. That approach is no longer holding up. Costs are rising, attention is scarce, and customers expect value
- [Why 2026 is the year to electrify your fleet](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-2026-is-the-year-to-electrify-your-fleet/) - 2026 is the year when the economics of fleet electrification become more compelling than ever for a broader range of operators. The convergence of new vehicle classes, clearer operating economics and instability in fuel prices including South Africa’s Electric Vehicles White Paper, create a practical environment for last-mile and urban logistics fleets to begin electrifying
- [Prioritising smarter healthcare decisions in 2026](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/prioritising-smarter-healthcare-decisions-in-2026/) - For many South African families, January is a time to plan and budget for the year ahead and set smart financial goals. While travel and big ticket spends are almost always the first to be considered, budgeting for healthcare is often left to chance or ignored altogether. This can leave families in stressful circumstances in
- [Absa Business Banking Oped for Consideration: What SA's Small Businesses Can Expect in 2026](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/absa-business-banking-oped-for-consideration-what-sas-small-businesses-can-expect-in-2026/) - By Vignesh Subramani, Interim Managing Executive of SME Business at Absa Business Banking South Africa heads into 2026 on firmer economic footing than in recent years, with a steadier macro backdrop and modest growth prospects beginning to take shape. That should be positive for the country’s small business sector, which picked up some momentum in
- [R23.9 Billion, 72 000 lives, one Budget Speech](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/r23-9-billion-72-000-lives-one-budget-speech/) - Why the Health Promotion Levy can no longer be delayed When Petrus Cockrell wakes up each morning, the first thing he reaches for is his wheelchair. Diabetes took both his legs before he turned 50. It robbed him of his mobility, his job and the simple joy of walking beside his dog.1 Petrus is one of
- [Integrity Beyond Compliance: the growth foundation for South Africa's SMMEs](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/integrity-beyond-compliance-the-growth-foundation-for-south-africas-smmes/) - By Surinder Sond VP: Sustainability, Sage In an era of volatility and shifting expectations, trust has become the cornerstone of business resilience. For South Africa’s SMBs, sustainability is more than environmental stewardship – it is a holistic approach that encompasses ethical conduct, responsible financial management, transparent operations, and fair treatment of people. Foundations for Growth 
- [The Silent Threat: Why the Passively Complacent Workforce Undermines Business](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-silent-threat-why-the-passively-complacent-workforce-undermines-business/) - Insights by Camille Rabier and Lynne Derman “Most organisations focus their efforts on celebrating their star performers or addressing the visibly disengaged. But the real threat to organisational performance may be hiding in plain sight: the passively complacent workforce. These are the employees who do just enough to get by, no overt sabotage, but no sparkly
- [Legacy also starts with a ledger](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/legacy-also-starts-with-a-ledger/) - What happens to a country’s future when most of its small businesses don’t survive long enough to grow? According to a report by the Centre for Development and Enterprise one of the key characteristics of South Africa’s SMME sector is that it is dominated by ‘young’ firms. About 40 per cent of the sector are firms
- [Studies show SA trails the U.S. in AI implementation by 50%: confirmed](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/studies-show-sa-trails-the-u-s-in-ai-implementation-by-50-confirmed/) - “South Africa is not short on ambition when it comes to artificial intelligence. What we are short on is execution,” announces Joshua Harvey, Head of Growth at Specno, South Africa’s leading digital innovation agency, the company responsible for launching South Africa’s very own Innovators Den. While global benchmarks show South Africa is around 35–40% behind
- [The financial trends that mattered in 2025, and what they mean for South Africa in 2026](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-financial-trends-that-mattered-in-2025-and-what-they-mean-for-south-africa-in-2026/) - From defence to offence: Why 2026 is South Africa’s year of being back in the game If 2025 was the year South Africa had to steel itself for a tsunami of crises, 2026 could well shape up to be the year the country starts coming up for air. Locally, there was historic progress, marked by
- [New MIT SMR + BCG Report: Africa Leads in Agentic AI Adoption](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/new-mit-smr-bcg-report-africa-leads-in-agentic-ai-adoption/) - Agentic AI – systems that can plan, act, and learn independently – is being adopted faster than traditional and generative AI, yet few organisations have developed the management frameworks to keep pace. In less than two years, 35% of companies are already exploring agentic AI, with another 44% of companies planning to deploy it soon.
- [Education Landscape in South Africa - At a Crossroads](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/education-landscape-in-south-africa-at-a-crossroads/) - By Dr Darius Sangari PhD, Director of Sangari Education South Africa’s education system stands at a crossroads. With over 24,850 schools serving millions of learners, the sheer scale of the sector is undeniable. Yet beneath the numbers lies a story of persistent struggle—one marked by high dropout rates, alarming learning deficits, and deep inequalities that
- [2026: The Year of AI Execution for South African Businesses](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/2026-the-year-of-ai-execution-for-south-african-businesses/) - Dean Wolson, General Manager of Infrastructure Solutions Group at Lenovo Southern Africa As we start 2026, artificial intelligence in South Africa is entering a new era defined not by experimentation, but by execution. Across the region, the conversation is shifting from “how do we build AI?” to “how do we power, govern, and scale it responsibly?” The next
- [When FOBO meets IT talent strategy, professionals must build capability](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/when-fobo-meets-it-talent-strategy-professionals-must-build-capability/) - Frik van der Westhuizen, CEO of EQPlus Over the past year, a new acronym has emerged that captures the mood of many people: FOBO, or the fear of becoming obsolete. As AI evolves, cyber threats grow, and automation reshapes work, many professionals are asking whether their skills will still matter tomorrow. Business leaders should therefore
- [Thought leadership isn’t about information. It’s about narrative.](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/thought-leadership-isnt-about-information-its-about-narrative/) - For years, thought leadership has been treated as a content exercise. Publish the report. Share the data. Release the trend forecast. Post the insight. And yet, despite the effort, most thought leadership content struggles to do what it’s meant to do: influence thinking, build trust and position a brand as a credible voice. The reason
- [From surviving to supercharged: How South Africa’s small businesses rewrote the rules in 2025](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/from-surviving-to-supercharged-how-south-africas-small-businesses-rewrote-the-rules-in-2025/) - For years South African small businesses have operated under a cloud of uncertainty. Whether it was load-shedding, rising costs, or unpredictable markets, their resilience was tested at every turn. In 2025, SMEs changed the script. Instead of waiting for stability, they built it into their business, leveraging digital tools and adapting revenue models for operational
- [Building Your Digital Business Platform: A Strategic Guide to Technology and Skills](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/building-your-digital-business-platform-a-strategic-guide-to-technology-and-skills/) - By Lungi Sangqu CEO, Africa Digital Success | Former CIO, Transnet Freight Rail & UNISA Across Africa, organisations are accelerating their digital transformation journeys. Yet many struggle with a fundamental question: where do we start, and what capabilities really matter? Too often, digital transformation is approached as a technology shopping exercise rather than a strategic capability-building journey.
- [Global business challenged by rapid emergence of a new age of competition](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/global-business-challenged-by-rapid-emergence-of-a-new-age-of-competition/) - Global business leaders are facing mounting risks, as deepening geopolitical divides, along with growing technological and societal challenges, are expected to continue to shape the business landscape over the next 12 months. This is according to senior leaders at Marsh (NYSE: MRSH), a global leader in risk, reinsurance and capital, people and investments, and management
- [South African Scientific & Technological Advancements under the High Seas Spotlight](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-african-scientific-technological-advancements-under-the-high-seas-spotlight/) - Image caption: NGO WILDTRUST’s Samkelisiwe Danisa and Lauren van Nijkerk from South Africa at the BBNJ Ethiopia Workshop In December 2025, NGO WILDTRUST’s Samkelisiwe Danisa and Lauren van Nijkerk from South Africa, engaged with around 100 representatives of African states, relevant global, regional and subregional organisations and civil society, in Ethiopia at the Regional Biodiversity Beyond
- [Building equity where it matters most](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/building-equity-where-it-matters-most/) - By Boudine van der Merwe | Manager of Human Resources at Ariston Global Employment equity in 2025 is no longer a distant policy aspiration. With the amended Employment Equity Act having come into effect on 1 January 2025 and sector-specific targets now formally published, male-dominated industries are facing a turning point. ICT and rail transport,
- [Why verified consumer data is becoming non-negotiable for SA brands](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-verified-consumer-data-is-becoming-non-negotiable-for-sa-brands/) - By Ross Joughin, Chief Commercial Officer at Synapser South Africa’s consumer landscape is becoming increasingly complex, and far harder to read with confidence. Spending power is under strain, and behaviour differs sharply across regions and demographics. As a result, decisions driven by poor-quality or unverified data are becoming an expensive liability. In this environment, the
- [Make 2026 the Year of Smarter Credit Choices](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/make-2026-the-year-of-smarter-credit-choices/) - Insights on navigating post-holiday debt and building lasting credit control for the year ahead Jaco van Jaarsveldt, Chief Strategy & Innovation Officer at Experian South Africa’s credit landscape just offered a rare glimmer of hope: a 14% year-on-year improvement in default rates according to Experian’s latest Consumer Default Index (CDI). However, this seemingly positive statistic
- [What Gold and Copper Tell Us About the New Logic of Mining Investment in Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/what-gold-and-copper-tell-us-about-the-new-logic-of-mining-investment-in-africa/) - By Mpho Mofokeng (left), Director: Resources and Project Finance and Craig Brewer (right), Managing Director: Co-Head Origination, Investment Banking, Absa CIB When gold broke through the US$4,000 mark in October last year to reach new record highs, the market saw it as investors seeking a safe haven in the midst of economic and political turbulence.
- [How are SA consumers feeling at the end of a lo-ong year?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-are-sa-consumers-feeling-at-the-end-of-a-lo-ong-year/) - As retailers in South Africa prepare for what they hope will be an end-of-year boom, it’s worth asking the question: how are consumer class adults with disposable income really feeling? And the answer in the data seems to show they may have some guardrails around their optimism. The annual BrandMapp survey of the top 30%
- [Communities in northern KwaZulu-Natal Celebrate New Chapter in Sustainable Fishing](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/communities-in-northern-kwazulu-natal-celebrate-new-chapter-in-sustainable-fishing/) - The KwaSokhulu and Nyembe communities in northern KwaZulu-Natal celebrated a long-awaited milestone when non-profit organisation WILDTRUST’s Small-Scale Fishers and Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) Project hosted events to present fishing rods to local fisherfolk. By equipping fishers with rods, the initiative seeks to promote a culture of sustainable harvesting and reduce reliance on harmful or
- [Buying a Home Starts With Knowing Your Numbers](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/buying-a-home-starts-with-knowing-your-numbers/) - By Reinier van Loggerenberg, CEO, Craft Homes If there’s one gap I see over and over in South Africa’s housing market, it’s understanding. People want to buy. They’re tired of renting. They’ve saved something. But the moment they start looking, jargon and guesswork creep in: “How much can I really afford?”, “Why was my pre-approval
- [How payroll and HR become the strategic engine of business in 2026](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-payroll-and-hr-become-the-strategic-engine-of-business-in-2026/) - The world of payroll and HR is evolving at an unprecedented speed, and 2026 is set to bring some of the most significant shifts yet. From AI systems that can act with initiative, to payroll that updates in real time, these developments are transforming payroll and HR, moving the focus away from admin and towards
- [Three Wheels. One Purpose. A Whole lot of Impact.](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/three-wheels-one-purpose-a-whole-lot-of-impact/) - At a time when South Africa’s unemployment rate continues to challenge households across the country, one unexpected player has emerged as a quiet force for economic mobility, and community impact – Shesha Taxi Services. The Tuk Tuk network operating across Rosebank, Sandton and Pretoria, has created more than 200 jobs, enabled over R10 million in
- [Connected Impact: A Year of Conversations That Moved Us Forward](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/connected-impact-a-year-of-conversations-that-moved-us-forward/) - Insights shared by Sive Nodada This year’s Coffee & Conversation series did exactly what it set out to do: spark useful dialogue, build shared intelligence, and create spaces where real-world challenges could be tackled collectively. Across themes as varied as financial wellness, leadership succession, culture, AI, personal branding and organisation design, one idea kept surfacing
- [Specno warns: “2026 will separate the builders from the breakthroughs” as fast-fashion tech floods the market](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/specno-warns-2026-will-separate-the-builders-from-the-breakthroughs-as-fast-fashion-tech-floods-the-market/) - South Africa – As global organisations race toward 2026, Specno is issuing a clear warning: businesses that do not rethink how they build digital products will be left behind in what leaders are calling the fast-fashion era of tech. With AI now enabling rapid development at unprecedented speed, the competitive landscape has fundamentally changed. Speed alone
- [SA must urgently innovate & invest to close the divide](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/sa-must-urgently-innovate-invest-to-close-the-divide/) - As artificial intelligence (AI) reaches into the everyday personal and professional lives of South Africans, the country’s education system is at a crossroad, as the immense potential of the technology is overshadowed by barriers like spotty internet, power outages, and outdated resources. “AI has emerged as a beacon of hope for education on the continent,
- [MIT study warns that 95% of AI pilot projects fail: SA businesses must act wisely](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/mit-study-warns-that-95-of-ai-pilot-projects-fail-sa-businesses-must-act-wisely/) - A recent MIT report featured in Fortune magazine revealed that ninety-five percent of generative-AI pilot projects are failing, resulting in investors pulling back and misrepresenting this as a failure of the technology itself. However, the real failure lies in the way organisations are adopting and managing it. AI does not break business; a poor
- [Nile launches as Africa’s first Social e-tailer](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/nile-launches-as-africas-first-social-e-tailer/) - Where shopping meets chat, and Africa leads the retail revolution As Africa’s digital economy accelerates, Nile has officially launched as the continent’s first dedicated social e-tailer, transforming how people discover, connect, and shop online. Nile is built from the ground up for Africa’s mobile-first reality. It brings the full shopping journey – from discovery to
- [South African businesses face rising workforce risks as summer brings floods and storms](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-african-businesses-face-rising-workforce-risks-as-summer-brings-floods-and-storms/) - As South Africa moves into the peak of its summer rainy season, businesses are being urged to prepare for escalating flood and storm-related disruptions that could impact workforce health, safety and operations. While summer often signals the arrival of the rainy season, this year it also brings mounting environmental volatility. The South African Weather Service
- [Don't blow it up as you bow out : How you resign will have a lasting impact impact your future](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/dont-blow-it-up-as-you-bow-out-how-you-resign-will-have-a-lasting-impact-impact-your-future/) - As 2025 draws to a close, employees planning to resign in the coming months (or in the new year) should prioritise leaving with grace, as resignations today are far more than a mere formality – they’re a defining moment in a professional’s career, a leadership expert says. Advaita Naidoo, Africa MD at Jack Hammer, Africa’s largest executive search
- [The future of independent contractors is structured, outcome-driven, and blended](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-future-of-independent-contractors-is-structured-outcome-driven-and-blended/) - Marcel Capra, Chief Operations Officer of EQPlus Independent contracting is moving out of the informal sector of the labour market. It is no longer a last-minute fix or a speculative hire. The model is maturing into a disciplined way for organisations to access capability on demand. That only works if leaders apply structure around it and
- [Understanding LGBTQIA+ for real workplace inclusion](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/understanding-lgbtqia-for-real-workplace-inclusion/) - By Lindiwe Maseko, Head of Human Resources at CMS South Africa South Africa’s Constitution stands as a global pioneer, being the first in the world to expressly prohibit unfair discrimination based on sexual orientation. Meanwhile, the Employment Equity Act of 1998 reinforces this constitutional protection, making it illegal to discriminate against LGBTQIA+ individuals in the workplace. And
- [The dark side of automation: Automated marketing isn't a set-and-forget solution](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-dark-side-of-automation-automated-marketing-isnt-a-set-and-forget-solution/) - By Tanika Corneleus, Digital Campaign Lead at midnight, the innovation agency of iqbusines Automated systems have transformed every aspect of marketing operations over the past few years, from how we run email campaigns and schedule social media posting to lead scoring and AB/ testing. Now, with the growing maturity of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning,
- [NDCA proposes enhancements to debt counselling standards](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ndca-proposes-enhancements-to-debt-counselling-standards/) - Proposal will align the sector with the rest of the financial services industry The National Debt Counselling Association (NDCA) has submitted a key proposal to government, aimed at enhancing standards in the sector and preventing unregistered or unethical practitioners from posing as legitimate debt counsellors. The proposal recommends that fit-and-proper requirements be introduced for debt
- [Empowering SA's teachers : Why professional development is crucial as tech advances](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/empowering-sas-teachers-why-professional-development-is-crucial-as-tech-advances-2/) - Technological advancements in education have made continuous professional development of teachers more crucial than ever. With the rise of artificial intelligence, shifting pedagogical approaches, and increasingly diverse classroom needs, educators must be equipped not only with subject knowledge but also with the tools and strategies to foster meaningful learning experiences. Simply put, all the tech
- [South Africa’s Growing Appetite for Online Food – and What It Means for Retailers](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-africas-growing-appetite-for-online-food-and-what-it-means-for-retailers/) - By James Noble, Sector Executive for Wholesale, Retail and Franchising at Absa Business Banking If one were looking for an indicator of how much food buying has moved online in South Africa, they could look to the roads. Conservative estimates put the number of delivery bikes moving from store to door each day at more
- [Movember - Mental health in sub-Saharan Africa is a threat](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/movember-mental-health-in-sub-saharan-africa-is-a-threat/) - As Movember shines a global spotlight on men’s health, the conversation around mental wellbeing in the workplace has never been more urgent. Across sub-Saharan Africa, new data reveals a concerning mental health landscape – where 48% of employees experience daily stress and 28% reporting emotional loneliness. Due to stigma, men tend not to talk about their mental health
- [Our entrepreneurs lack skills – not support](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/our-entrepreneurs-lack-skills-not-support/) - South Africa’s youth unemployment rate remains among the highest in the world, with Stats SA reporting that 62.2% of young people aged 15-24 were unemployed and 12.2% of graduates struggled to find work in Q2:2025. For those with matric or less, the situation was even more dire, with unemployment rates of 35.2% and 39.4%, respectively. The challenge
- [Can resourcing be an agility driver?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/can-resourcing-be-an-agility-driver/) - By Mark Mc Kerr, Managing Executive at Paracon by Adcorp South Africa’s talent paradox is sharper than ever. On the one hand, employers are struggling to fill mission-critical positions. In 2023, despite unemployment of 45.5% in the 15-34 age group, there were around 77,000 unfilled roles in ICT alone, while a 2024/5 report shows that 84% of local
- [Africa’s Gen Z consumers are reshaping the continent’s retail future](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/africas-gen-z-consumers-are-reshaping-the-continents-retail-future/) - BCG’s ‘119 Million Reasons for Optimism’ report highlights how Africa’s digital-first Gen Z is driving a retail revolution across the continent Pan-Africa, November 2025 – Despite the toughest consumer climate in years, Africa’s youngest consumers are powering a potential retail reset that blends digital discovery with hyper-local focus, redefining what it means to consume, connect, and
- [From Policy to Opportunity: Turning Government’s Tech Push into SMB Growth](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/from-policy-to-opportunity-turning-governments-tech-push-into-smb-growth/) - By Jordaan Burger, Managing Director, Sage Africa and Middle East Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) has set out bold ambitions for economic growth and social development in South Africa. Announcements such as a new 3% inflation target and R1 trillion in funding; aimed at roads, energy, water, and digital infrastructure – offers a
- [12TH CEO Dialogue puts the spotlight on partnerships to accelerate development in Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/12th-ceo-dialogue-puts-the-spotlight-on-partnerships-to-accelerate-development-in-africa/) - As global attention turns to the culmination of South Africa’s historic G20 Presidency, some of the most influential business and institutional leaders will convene at the 12th CEO Dialogue on Southern Africa to deliberate on initiatives to build long-term and constructive partnerships to accelerate development in Africa. The CEO Dialogue, hosted by The European House
- [Africa’s next growth engine is entrepreneurs](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/africas-next-growth-engine-is-entrepreneurs/) - By Dr. Reabetswe Kgoroeadira, CEO, Regenesys School of Entrepreneurship Three powerful forces are converging across South Africa and the continent, creating a once-in-a-generation opportunity to unlock a new era of entrepreneurship. High youth unemployment, rapid advances in artificial intelligence and the demographic advantage of a young, dynamic population are reshaping the economic landscape. This moment
- [Socioeconomic background continues to shape workplace belonging in South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/socioeconomic-background-continues-to-shape-workplace-belonging-in-south-africa/) - Employees from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds experience a low level of workplace inclusion, even as their career advances and they rise through the ranks to senior leadership. This holds true across industries, job types, and regions. There are powerful business incentives to address it, however. When an inclusion gap persists, companies leave untapped potential on the
- [Workplace burnout becomes South Africa’s silent productivity killer](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/workplace-burnout-becomes-south-africas-silent-productivity-killer/) - As businesses race to close out the year, a growing threat is quietly eroding South Africa’s productivity: workplace burnout. With 36% of employees experiencing daily stress and over 71% disengaged at work, the impact on the economy is staggering – and climbing. Recent data shows that unplanned absenteeism costs South African organisations around R25 billion annually, while mental health-related productivity losses
- [Sage report shows record SME sustainability ambition, but finance and reporting bottlenecks risk leaving millions behind](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/sage-report-shows-record-sme-sustainability-ambition-but-finance-and-reporting-bottlenecks-risk-leaving-millions-behind/) - Sage, the leader in accounting, financial, HR and payroll technology for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), has launched the SME Sustainable Finance Stocktake: Turning Ambition into Action. The report reveals record levels of sustainability ambition but warns that slow progress on finance and reporting risks leaving millions behind and putting global net-zero targets out of reach. Produced
- [How to manage your first pay cheque to retirement](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-to-manage-your-first-pay-cheque-to-retirement/) - For many women, the path from receiving a first salary to securing a comfortable retirement can feel like a long uphill journey. Factors like the gender pay gap, single parenthood and extended family responsibilities, and potential career breaks due to motherhood, compound how difficult it can be to save and invest for future financial stability.
- [The Cost of Inaction: Why South Africa Cannot Afford to Ignore the Diabetes Crisis](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-cost-of-inaction-why-south-africa-cannot-afford-to-ignore-the-diabetes-crisis/) - As we approach World Diabetes Day on November 14, civil society organisations warn that the cost of inaction on non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes is already being paid for in lives, livelihoods and lost potential. The Healthy Living Alliance (HEALA) is calling on the South African government to increase the Health Promotion Levy (HPL)
- [SA Poised to Benefit Economically as Africa Takes Center Stage at the Upcoming G20](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/sa-poised-to-benefit-economically-as-africa-takes-center-stage-at-the-upcoming-g20/) - By: Dr Alex Malapane, Prof Shamila Singh, & Sele Yalaghuli South Africa’s presidency of the G20 in 2025 arrives at a moment of critical transition. Global trade policy, finance mechanisms and climate commitments set in the G20 reverberate rapidly through open middle-income economies like ours. With the G20 Leaders’ Summit taking place in Johannesburg on
- [How to choose the right medical cover in 2026](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-to-choose-the-right-medical-cover-in-2026/) - As medical schemes unveil their 2026 product ranges, South Africans face a recurring challenge. Too many options, too much jargon and the risk of choosing a plan that doesn’t fit is a reality many medical aid seekers are all too familiar with. With contribution increases averaging between 8% and 9% across the industry, getting the right balance
- [Sanofi South Africa confronts challenge of transformation in healthcare](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/sanofi-south-africa-confronts-challenge-of-transformation-in-healthcare/) - Sanofi South Africa is proud to announce it has reached Level 1 B-BBEE status, the top rating in South Africa’s transformation framework and a rare achievement for a global healthcare company. The achievement underscores the role of global companies in driving local empowerment and healthcare access and demonstrates the potential support that multinational pharmaceuticals companies can provide
- [The diversity drum: still banging, still delivering](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-diversity-drum-still-banging-still-delivering/) - With Belinda Overend, Chief Operating Officer of Bastion In 2025, the business case for diversity shouldn’t be a debate. In fact, it has only gained strength as top tier consultancies and research organisations, like McKinsey, continue to provide large-scale, empirical evidence. According to EY UK, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) measurably increases productivity and innovation[1]. The Diversity
- [Liberty Successfully Matches Beneficiaries with Unclaimed Benefits totalling of R14 Million at the Unclaimed Benefits Open Day](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/liberty-successfully-matches-beneficiaries-with-unclaimed-benefits-totalling-of-r14-million-at-the-unclaimed-benefits-open-day/) - Last week, Liberty, one of South Africa’s leading financial services providers, hosted an Unclaimed Benefits Open Day at its Braamfontein offices as part of its ongoing national effort to trace and pay out unclaimed benefits to their rightful beneficiaries. The event aimed to reunite South Africans with their unclaimed benefits and offered on-site assistance, including
- [The Big Squeeze: Why Salary Increases in South Africa Aren't Keeping Up with Life's Rising Costs](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-big-squeeze-why-salary-increases-in-south-africa-arent-keeping-up-with-lifes-rising-costs/) - “Imagine that you are a factory worker in Johannesburg, scraping by on a modest wage. Your rent has gone up again, electricity bills are biting harder, and the price of maize meal – that staple in your kitchen – feels like it has doubled overnight. You hear whispers of a salary bump coming your way,
- [Building Trust, Accelerating Growth: Securing Africa's Generative AI Future](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/building-trust-accelerating-growth-securing-africas-generative-ai-future/) - By Linda Saunders, Country Manager & Senior Director Solution Engineering, Africa, Salesforce Generative AI has become the new frontier of workplace productivity, efficiently rewriting emails, analysing data, recording meetings, and automating complex tasks. This powerful technology is being adopted rapidly across the continent. In Africa, approximately 40% of organisations are either experimenting with or deploying generative AI
- [South Africa officially exits grey list after two years of regulatory reform](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-africa-officially-exits-grey-list-after-two-years-of-regulatory-reform/) - By Kirsten Kern, Partner, Head of Financial Services Regulatory South Africa, and Kirsten Paulo, Senior Associate, Bowmans South Africa has officially been removed from the ‘grey list’ of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), following more than two years of rigorous regulatory reform. This follows the successful completion of all 22 action items in the FATF
- [AI’s growing demand for resources is unsustainable; NTT DATA paper calls for action and offers solutions](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ais-growing-demand-for-resources-is-unsustainable-ntt-data-paper-calls-for-action-and-offers-solutions/) - A new white paper from NTT DATA, a global leader in AI, digital business and technology services, highlights the urgent need to embed sustainability into every layer of AI development and deployment to counteract the technology’s environmental impact. Deploying innovative solutions for sustainable AI is a corporate responsibility and a strategic opportunity to create lasting value,
- [Why outsourcing HR could be the smartest business move you make](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-outsourcing-hr-could-be-the-smartest-business-move-you-make/) - Running a growing business can sometimes feel like managing a dozen moving parts all at once. Amid the constant drive to expand and stay competitive, the human side of business can easily be overlooked, especially for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that often operate with small teams and limited resources. “HR is the very heartbeat
- [Investment Note: China confronts contradictions](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/investment-note-china-confronts-contradictions/) - “A land of contrasts” is probably the most tired cliché in travel writing. It also happens to be true of most countries. When it comes to economic matters, there are few places in the world today where contrasts are as noticeable as in China. To name but a few: exports to the US have plunged
- [Now is the time to invest in SA residential property](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/now-is-the-time-to-invest-in-sa-residential-property/) - By Reinier van Loggerenberg, CEO, Craft Homes South Africa’s residential property market is entering a decisive chapter. After several years of macroeconomic volatility, we are witnessing a convergence of forces that make this an unusually opportune moment for long-term property investment. Interest rates are easing and a new wave of well-positioned, high-yield developments is redefining
- [How SMEs can leverage global trade and digital transformation](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-smes-can-leverage-global-trade-and-digital-transformation/) - By Harry Scherzer, CEO of Future Forex While there’s public excitement about Johannesburg being smartened up ahead of the 2025 G20 summit set to take place in November, expectations have been tempered by diplomatic tensions, uncertainty about a US boycott and little progress on talks about the debt crisis. Even so, the summit is set
- [Mindset is more important than funding](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/mindset-is-more-important-than-funding/) - Mitchan Adams, CEO and Co-founder of Aions Ventures For a founder, having the right mindset is essential. Think of funding as an accelerant and not a substitute for doing. If you are not already testing, learning, and selling, then capital will not save you. In my mind, there are three archetypes. There is the business
- [Why it’s time to treat tourism like economic infrastructure](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-its-time-to-treat-tourism-like-economic-infrastructure/) - By Marc Wachsberger, CEO of The Capital Hotels, Apartments & Resorts, with contributions from inDrive and Batsumi. From Venice to New York, global cities are struggling under the weight of their own popularity. Overtourism has become a pressing issue. Overcrowded attractions, inflated prices and strained infrastructure are prompting both travellers and policymakers abroad to rethink
- [OPUS Launches the Investec Easies](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/opus-launches-the-investec-easies/) - A new global award launches today to recognise the world’s most promising early-stage entrepreneurs, giving founders who are leading companies that are under four years old and pre-Series A, a stage to celebrate their critical work. The Investec Early-Stage Entrepreneur of the Year Awards (“The Investec Easies”), powered by OPUS, are the first awards designed
- [How automated lending improves access and reduces bias](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-automated-lending-improves-access-and-reduces-bias/) - David Reynders, CTO, Merchant Capital Access to finance remains uneven in South Africa. Smaller businesses, particularly in the informal sector, rural communities, or women-led enterprises, still encounter friction that feels structural. Much of the debate turns on bias. Are entrepreneurs excluded because of who they are, or because of how their businesses are assessed? The
- [The entrepreneur’s edge in an AI-Driven economy](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-entrepreneurs-edge-in-an-ai-driven-economy/) - By Alan Shannon, Executive: Sales Strategy & Enablement, Nedbank AI is no longer a futuristic concept reserved for tech giants. It is here, accessible, and is changing the way businesses of all sizes operate. Often spoken about in extremes, either as the ultimate productivity tool or as a looming threat to jobs, livelihoods, and even
- [The hidden wealth we all carry](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-hidden-wealth-we-all-carry/) - “The most valuable real estate in the world isn’t a penthouse or a sprawling estate; it’s the graveyard. There lie millions of half-written books, ideas never launched, and talents never developed. Most people die with everything still inside of them,“ quotes Derek Sivers. But what if there was another way to measure our worth, a
- [Supply chain industry body sapics urges collaboration and education to fix south africa’s failing logistics system](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/supply-chain-industry-body-sapics-urges-collaboration-and-education-to-fix-south-africas-failing-logistics-system/) - As South Africa observes Transport Month, supply chain industry body SAPICS is putting the spotlight on the critical link between transport infrastructure and national supply chain resilience and says that collaboration and education are key to building a safe, world-class logistics ecosystem. “Port delays, rail disruptions and infrastructure inefficiencies are costing the economy a reported
- [AI meets human insight to tackle South Africa’s crime and cybercrime threats](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ai-meets-human-insight-to-tackle-south-africas-crime-and-cybercrime-threats/) - As South Africa battles some of the highest crime and cybercrime rates in the world, Phangela Group is redefining security by combining cutting-edge AI technology with human judgement to deliver faster, smarter, and more resilient protection. “Technology gives us speed, scale, and a view across many fronts, but it can’t read intent, prioritise risk in
- [Carbon budgets raise urgency of company plans to reduce emissions](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/carbon-budgets-raise-urgency-of-company-plans-to-reduce-emissions/) - South Africa has taken an important step towards meeting its carbon reduction commitments under the Paris Agreement, with carbon budget regulations that will demand tangible action from the country’s large emitters. Published for comment in early August 2025, the draft National Greenhouse Gas Carbon Budget and Mitigation Plan Regulations set the stage for companies to
- [The new currency of sustainable leadership is wellness reimagined](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-wellness-is-the-new-currency-of-leadership/) - At Tuesday Consulting’s most recent Table Talk Tuesday, Dr. Mothomang Diaho, a medical doctor and Gestalt-trained coach, challenged leaders to rethink how they view wellness in the workplace. “Burnout isn’t just an individual issue, it’s a leadership and organisational imperative,” said Dr. Diaho. “When leaders run on empty, the ripple effects hit teams, culture, strategy,
- [Why business processes must change to protect finance teams from burnout](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/fw-press-release-why-business-processes-must-change-to-protect-finance-teams-from-burnout/) - In South Africa, burnout among professionals is a pressing reality, with the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) revealing in a recent report that 52% of employees surveyed have been diagnosed with a mental health condition, 13% of which had been diagnosed with burnout specifically. Finance professionals are particularly vulnerable, given the demanding nature of their
- [Mixing business with humanities : Empowering graduates requires curricular reform](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/mixing-business-with-humanities-empowering-graduates-requires-curricular-reform/) - The traditional dichotomy between commerce and the humanities has long been a fixture in academic and professional landscapes. However this historic status quo is no longer tenable, and universities must adapt to ensure curricula contain a suitable blend of disciplines to empower students for life after studies, an education expert says. “Combining commerce and humanities
- [Africa's climate health crisis could amplify global $1.5 trillion productivity loss as continent bears 94% of world's malaria burden](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/africas-climate-health-crisis-could-amplify-global-1-5-trillion-productivity-loss-as-continent-bears-94-of-worlds-malaria-burden/) - In the next 25 years, climate-driven health impacts could result in the loss of more than $1.5 trillion in lost output from select climate-health illnesses. This is according to a new report from the World Economic Forum, developed in collaboration with Boston Consulting Group (BCG), assessing climate-driven health impacts across four of the most affected
- [Schools are on the frontline of SA’s youth mental health crisis](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/schools-are-on-the-frontline-of-sas-youth-mental-health-crisis/) - South Africa’s young people are facing an escalating mental health crisis. In 2022, more than 13% of our youth between the ages of 10 and 19 were living with a diagnosed mental disorder, with anxiety and depression accounting for nearly half of these cases, and suicide claiming more than 46,000 young lives. Meanwhile, a 2023
- [Constitutional Court reshapes parental leave legal landscape – What employers and employees should know](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/constitutional-court-reshapes-parental-leave-legal-landscape-what-employers-and-employees-should-know/) - Sibusiso Dube, Partner, Layla Shah, Associate and Jessica Rushmere, Candidate Legal Practitioner, Bowmans The Constitutional Court of South Africa, in a judgment handed down on 3 October 2025, ushered in a new era for parental leave, one grounded in equality, dignity, and the evolving realities of modern families. The Court confirmed that the country’s
- [The hidden cost of financial stress in the workplace](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-hidden-cost-of-financial-stress-in-the-workplace/) - Despite being employed, many South African workers continue to feel financially strained and it shows at work. Old Mutual’s Savings & Investment Monitor 2023 found that 37% of South Africans consider themselves highly financially strained even as optimism has improved from prior years1. TransUnion South Africa’s Q2 2024 Data Snapshot showed that 83% of new
- [Cutting Red Tape and Building Resilience: A South African Entrepreneur’s Perspective](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/cutting-red-tape-and-building-resilience-a-south-african-entrepreneurs-perspective/) - Global Entrepreneur Day is a reminder of both the opportunities and the obstacles facing business owners in South Africa. For local entrepreneur Adriaan Grové, the founder of Entegral and MyProperty, the path to building has been shaped as much by failure as by success. “When people ask what I’d do if I were president
- [From horse-and-cart bed deliveries to becoming southern Africa’s largest integrated bed manufacturer](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/from-horse-and-cart-bed-deliveries-to-becoming-southern-africas-largest-integrated-bed-manufacturer/) - Heritage Month is not only an opportunity to celebrate South Africa’s many cultures and their traditions, but also its success stories. One of these is Sleep Group – the largest integrated bedding manufacturer in southern Africa. Having started as a small family business, Metz Furniture, back in 1939, the group has built a legacy that
- [African companies lead in climate risk assessment, adaptation and value creation](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/african-companies-lead-in-climate-risk-assessment-adaptation-and-value-creation/) - From the outside, it may seem like corporate climate action is stalling. Only 7% of global and 6% of African companies fully report greenhouse gas emissions across Scopes 1, 2, and 3. Globally, reporting is down from 9% in 2024 and 10% in 2023. Similarly, the number of global companies setting targets to reduce emissions
- [Investment Note: People, pensions and policy choices](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/investment-note-people-pensions-and-policy-choices/) - Last week’s 90th anniversary of US President Franklin Roosevelt signing the Social Security Act into law went by largely unnoticed. However, it was a landmark reform, providing a minimum level of state support for people in old age for the first time, part of a package of interventions to combat extreme poverty in the Great Depression.
- [AI Will Not Replace Us. But Companies Who Fail to Use It Will Be Replaced.](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ai-will-not-replace-us-but-companies-who-fail-to-use-it-will-be-replaced/) - By Matt Surkont, CEO, BlueSky South Africa faces one of the highest unemployment rates in the world, while simultaneously standing on the brink of an artificial intelligence (AI) revolution. The debate about whether AI will “take our jobs” is misplaced. The real risk is that organisations fail to adopt AI fast enough — and lose
- [Giving teenagers a pathway into the workshop could help solve South Africa's artisan crisis](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/giving-teenagers-a-pathway-into-the-workshop-could-help-solve-south-africas-artisan-crisis/) - South Africa has an urgent problem hiding in plain sight. Our economy requires around 30,000 newly qualified artisans each year to keep infrastructure, construction and industry running, yet the country consistently produces far fewer than that. The Department of Higher Education and Training has acknowledged that this shortfall is one of the biggest barriers to
- [Your AI strategy won’t matter if trust isn’t on the table](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/your-ai-strategy-wont-matter-if-trust-isnt-on-the-table/) - Trust is not a machine-made thing. It’s a deeply cultivated and significantly felt human thing. In a world moving faster than a generated bot prompt, we tend to forget that human engagement is still the bedrock of marketing. Today’s businesses need to find the balance between Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Human Intelligence (HI). AI can
- [R&D powers better healthcare for everyone, from discovery to delivery](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/rd-powers-better-healthcare-for-everyone-from-discovery-to-delivery/) - Achieving universal healthcare for billions across Africa is an ambitious and vital goal; one that will face challenges but must be pursued. To ensure equitable access to health services in the most meaningful and impact ways to improve the lives of patients, Bada Pharasi, CEO of the Innovative Pharmaceutical Association South Africa (IPASA), shares how the
- [Global research shows employee stress is on the rise but…How can South African business leaders respond to the crisis locally?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/global-research-shows-employee-stress-is-on-the-rise-buthow-can-south-african-business-leaders-respond-to-the-crisis-locally/) - By Navlika Ratangee, Managing Director at Lyra South Africa Employee stress has been continually on the rise since the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, making it a top priority for employers yet, mental health care continues to fall short. Despite 89% of employees globally experiencing at least one mental health episode in the last year,
- [Maths crisis fuels South Africa’s STEM skills shortage](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/maths-crisis-fuels-south-africas-stem-skills-shortage/) - Quest For Your Best helps learners build confidence – and achieve – in Maths South Africa faces a stark disconnect between the supply of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) graduates, and the pressing demand from industry. According to recent reports, South Africa’s Mathematics pass rate rose from 63.5% in 2023 to 69.1%
- [Big Food’s Marketing to Children Under Scrutiny as Calls for Clear Food Labels Grow](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/big-foods-marketing-to-children-under-scrutiny-as-calls-for-clear-food-labels-grow/) - Image caption: Panel members from left to right. Crystal Orderson – Moderator and journalist. Yolanda Radu – Senior Researcher at the SAMRC Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science, PRICELESS SA. Alice Khan – Researcher at the School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, focusing on the marketing of food and beverages to children. Dr Tamryn
- [Offshore oil and gas: an empty promise full of consequences for South Africa and its people](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/offshore-oil-and-gas-an-empty-promise-full-of-consequences-for-south-africa-and-its-people/) - With the latest draft Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) seeming to open the floodgates to offshore oil and gas applications and projects, The Green Connection says that a new oil spill model – the first developed specifically for South African waters driven by conservation NGO, WILDTRUST – provides much needed proof of the real risks and
- [The Great Redeployment: How to Build a Workforce for the Agentic Era](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-great-redeployment-how-to-build-a-workforce-for-the-agentic-era/) - By Ursula Fear, Senior Talent Program Manager at Salesforce The conversation about AI and the workforce has been dominated by one word: replacement. However, the true story of this technological revolution isn’t about replacement, but about redeployment – a fundamental shift in how we orchestrate human talent and intelligent technology. At a time when organisations
- [Unlock Critical Knowledge - Explore the Surge of Deepfake Cyber Threats with Magix R&D Lab](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/unlock-critical-knowledge-explore-the-surge-of-deepfake-cyber-threats-with-magix-rd-lab/) - Tech enthusiasts and cybersecurity warriors! We’ve got something exciting in store for you. Magix R&D Lab is back with another insightful White Paper, titled “The Surge of Deepfake Cyber Threats.” Packed with the latest insights it’s your go-to guide for understanding and combating one of today’s most pressing cybersecurity challenges. What’s Inside the White Paper?
- [Artificial Intelligence in Psycho-Legal Practice: Transforming Workforce Planning for Industrial and Organisational Psychologists in South Africa – Part 2](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/artificial-intelligence-in-psycho-legal-practice-transforming-workforce-planning-for-industrial-and-organisational-psychologists-in-south-africa-part-2/) - Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping psycho-legal practice in South Africa, offering tools to enhance assessments, testimony, and ethical compliance amid high unemployment and skills shortages (Stats SA, 2024). Last week, Part 1 explored the South African psycho-legal context and AI’s influence across key streams, including expert witness roles, assessments, financial analysis, ethical standards, and guideline
- [Showing up, checked out: Why employee wellness checks are more important than ever](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/showing-up-checked-out-why-employee-wellness-checks-are-more-important-than-ever/) - How quietly cracking workforces are increasingly putting organisations and individuals at risk Navigating work and life in general is getting more challenging around the globe, and South Africa is no exception. Few will be unaware of the struggles, either their own or those of loved ones, colleagues or friends, of trying to make ends meet
- [Development in the regulation of class actions](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/development-in-the-regulation-of-class-actions/) - By Jonathan Barnes, Partner and Bianca Masterton, Knowledge & Learning Lawyer, Bowmans Effective 19 September 2025, important changes to the Rules governing the proceedings in the High Courts of South Africa (the Uniform Rules of Court) will come into force, marking a significant milestone in the development of South African class action litigation. For the first
- [Why AI could be the most important study tool of 2025 – and how to harness it](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-ai-could-be-the-most-important-study-tool-of-2025-and-how-to-harness-it/) - As South African Students and especially matriculants approach their final exams, preparation is the foundation of academic and future success. Encompassing far more than short-term memorisation, effective exam preparation is about cultivating the ability to analyse and engage critically with knowledge. It is the cornerstone of all learning but, in 2025, it is radically different
- [The Economics of Tourism: Assuring South Africa’s Growth Potential](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-economics-of-tourism-assuring-south-africas-growth-potential/) - By Dr. Alex Malapane, PhD As South Africa ushers in Tourism Month, it is important to reflect not just on the beauty of our landscapes or the richness of our heritage, but on the undeniable economic muscle that tourism brings to our nation. This is no longer a soft industry of leisure and lifestyle; it
- [How to turn construction payroll challenges into project wins](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-to-turn-construction-payroll-challenges-into-project-wins/) - Construction payroll is a mission-critical function that can make or break the success of a company’s projects. When it runs smoothly, projects deliver on time and in budget. But when it falters, the knock-on effects can throw projects off course, straining client relationships and eroding profitability. That’s why understanding the payroll risks – and the
- [Beyond the Paycheque: A Practical Guide to Executive Compensation in SA](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/beyond-the-paycheque-a-practical-guide-to-executive-compensation-in-sa/) - As a South African executive, you’ve likely scrutinised your compensation package and pondered: does this truly reflect the value I bring to the table? Total earnings – encompassing fixed pay, short-term incentives (STI), and long-term incentives (LTI) – can resemble a complex JSE puzzle. Fixed pay is your dependable base salary and benefits, covering everyday
- [South Africa's Generation X hits its peak earning years but faces peak pressures, too](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-africas-generation-x-hits-its-peak-earning-years-but-faces-peak-pressures-too/) - NielsenIQ (NIQ), in collaboration with World Data Lab (WDL), has released a comprehensive generational spending report focused on Generation X, the cohort born between 1965 and 1980. Titled The X Factor: How Generation X is quietly driving trillions in consumer spending, the report reveals that South Africa’s Gen X is an economic powerhouse accounting for 21.4% of
- [Confident but constrained—SA’s SMBs need a boost to grow](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/confident-but-constrained-sas-smbs-need-a-boost-to-grow/) - By Gerhard Hartman, VP Medium Segment, Sage Africa and Middle East As we are deep into 2025, it is pleasing to see that most small and medium businesses (SMBs) in South Africa are optimistic about their futures. Our latest annual ‘Small Business, Big Opportunity’ survey shows that 78% of South African SMBs are confident about their future
- [The Future of learning: From online courses to integrated experiences](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-future-of-learning-from-online-courses-to-integrated-experiences/) - By Ursula Fear, Senior Talent Program Manager at Salesforce The pace of change in the workplace is faster than ever, reshaping the skills required to thrive. This shift demands a new approach to learning – one that moves beyond passive online course completion to agile, integrated experiences that empower individuals to be lifelong learners and
- [Africa’s leading digital innovation agency warns: Future of AI in SA will define who holds power](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/africas-leading-digital-innovation-agency-warns-future-of-ai-in-sa-will-define-who-holds-power/) - “Artificial intelligence has crossed a critical threshold. For the first time in history, our tools are learning to improve themselves. This moment marks the dawn of what experts call superintelligence, the machine learning capabilities that could one day surpass human performance in nearly every domain” comments Daniel Novitzkas, Chairman of Specno, Africa’s leading digital innovation
- [Franc launches Hustle Account, a money management tool for go getters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/franc-launches-hustle-account-a-money-management-tool-for-go-getters/) - Franc has announced the Hustle Account in response to a growing gap in the market. Thousands of South Africans are running side businesses or freelancing without the financial tools they need to succeed. For many entrepreneurs personal and business revenue often end up in the same account, income is irregular, and provisional tax arrives twice a year
- [Why Youth Employment Should Be a Business Strategy](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-youth-employment-should-be-a-business-strategy/) - By Thami Mbanjeni, Y.E.S. Implementation Manager, The BEE Chamber For many companies, transformation requirements such as B-BBEE compliance are still seen as an administrative burden. The Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative challenges that perception by offering more than compliance: it provides a practical, cost-efficient tool for business growth and flexibility. In the BEE Chamber’s experience,
- [Navigating the gendered complexities of South Africa’s financial landscape](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/navigating-the-gendered-complexities-of-south-africas-financial-landscape/) - In a country marked by stark economic disparities, South African women face unique challenges in achieving financial independence and security. The financial landscape, shaped by historical inequalities and ongoing societal barriers, often presents a complex maze for women to navigate. Despite progress, a significant gap in financial inclusion persists, hindering women’s ability to save, invest, and build wealth. The intricacies surrounding women’s financial empowerment
- [From fragmented to unified: How AI and cloud technology are transforming government service delivery](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/from-fragmented-to-unified-how-ai-and-cloud-technology-are-transforming-government-service-delivery/) - Lerato Mathabatha, Public Sector Director at Microsoft South Africa In an era where digital transformation defines the relationship between governments and their citizens, South Africa finds itself at a crucial crossroads. Citizens today expect government services that match their consumer experiences – tailored, convenient, and secure. From the palm of their hand, South Africans
- [Start-ups have enough reasons to fail, let’s not add lack of technology to the list](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/start-ups-have-enough-reasons-to-fail-lets-not-add-lack-of-technology-to-the-list/) - By Ongopotse Motlhanke, CEO: Khumbula Tech Few of us could imagine a mechanic trying to do his job, as best he could, without the appropriate tools. Similarly, could we expect a bricklayer to do a neat job without his builder’s square, trowel and level? It will always be the age of certain mainstay trades, but
- [South Africa’s Untapped Economic Goldmine: Luxury Tourism & Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals Can Drive Job Creation and Stimulate Economic Growth](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-africas-untapped-economic-goldmine-luxury-tourism-ultra-high-net-worth-individuals-can-drive-job-creation-and-stimulate-economic-growth/) - South Africa’s luxury tourism sector holds the key to unlocking unprecedented economic growth, global prestige, and job creation, argues Roxy Robinson, Founder and Director of Roxstar Global Consulting, and Roxstar Luxury Travel. “Luxury inbound tourism is not a niche indulgence – it’s an untapped economic goldmine,” says Robinson. “South Africa has all the right ingredients
- [Compliance is the Cornerstone of Growth in South Africa’s Financial Sector](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/compliance-is-the-cornerstone-of-growth-in-south-africas-financial-sector/) - Pienaar Zietsman, Chief Operating Officer at Amplifin, comments; “For many financial institutions in South Africa, compliance has long been treated as a cost of doing business, a necessary function to satisfy auditors and regulators, and to avoid penalties. But that mindset no longer holds up. “As the regulatory environment tightens and innovation in the payment solutions
- [A vaccine wake-up call for South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/a-vaccine-wake-up-call-for-south-africa/) - South Africa is facing a growing public health concern, as large numbers of children1 miss out on life-saving vaccinations. According to Dr Zeina Elian, Vaccines Medical Head for Sanofi Africa, the country is seeing a resurgence in ‘zero dose’ communities. These are areas where children have not received a single routine vaccine. In low dose communities, under-immunisation
- [Supply vs Demand: Why South African Startups Fail — and How We Can Shift the Mindset](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/supply-vs-demand-why-south-african-startups-fail-and-how-we-can-shift-the-mindset/) - By Georgina Joy Read There’s a dangerous idea in business: if you build it, they will come. It is a popularized sayings – but, it is too narrow. I used to believe it too — until I realised as I was building my business, I was building for myself, not for anyone else. Last week,
- [Constructing change - gender equity across south africa’s technical industries](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/constructing-change-gender-equity-across-south-africas-technical-industries/) - South Africa’s technical industries, from construction and engineering to logistics, energy, and manufacturing, are the backbone of South Africa’s infrastructure and innovation – essential to the nation’s development. Yet, despite major strides in gender equity in our country, women remain underrepresented and often overlooked at the technical core of these sectors. And when women are
- [Transforming education: A fresh approach to curricular justice in SA](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/transforming-education-a-fresh-approach-to-curricular-justice-in-sa/) - Curricular justice, an increasingly prominent focus at top global educational institutions, emphasises fair, inclusive, and contextually relevant curricula that accommodate diverse learner backgrounds and experiences. For South African higher education, a new approach to curricular justice is essential to address persistent inequities and transform educational practices, and to meet the nation’s development goals, an education
- [Women Led Businesses: A Conversation with Kerryn Campion](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/women-led-businesses-a-conversation-with-kerryn-campion-2/) - MATTERS OF FACT QUICKFIRE Q&A WITH PEOPLE WHO MATTER Kerryn Campion COO Aions Ventures In this Q&A with South African Business Matters, we meet Kerryn Campion, COO of Aions Ventures. She shares her journey of building solutions that move beyond funding to truly empower women-owned businesses – championing resilience, innovation, and inclusion in South Africa’s
- [Shaping the Future of Finance: A Conversation with Verina Mohanlal](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/shaping-the-future-of-finance-a-conversation-with-verina-mohanlal/) - MATTERS OF FACT QUICKFIRE Q&A WITH PEOPLE WHO MATTER Verina Mohanlal Head of Financial Services NTT Data In this exclusive Q&A, we get to know the dynamic leader behind the title, delving into her journey, her inspirations, and her bold vision for a tech-driven yet deeply human-centered financial future in Africa and beyond. 1. What
- [Section 42 - how to take your business global while you stay local](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/section-42-how-to-take-your-business-global-while-you-stay-local/) - By Raindren Moodley, Executive: Advisory Services at Ariston Global South African entrepreneurs have a problem. How do they grow their businesses when the country accounts for just 0.5% of global GDP and is growing at a sluggish pace of less than 1% per year? Growth focused entrepreneurs are forced to start looking for opportunities that
- [Sophos and Phishield Launch Integrated Cybersecurity and Insurance Initiative Amid Escalating Ransomware Crisis](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/sophos-and-phishield-launch-integrated-cybersecurity-and-insurance-initiative-amid-escalating-ransomware-crisis/) - The latest figures from Sophos’ State of Ransomware in South Africa 2025 report reveal that the median ransom payment nearly tripled over the past year, increasing from approximately R2.8 million to R8.3 million, underscoring the significant financial risks posed by ransomware attacks. These rising ransom payments accompany a marked increase in attackers’ demands, with the
- [AI-fuelled retail media opens new frontier in performance marketing for South African brands](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ai-fuelled-retail-media-opens-new-frontier-in-performance-marketing-for-south-african-brands/) - By Alasdair Fey, Digital Campaign Manager at midnight, the innovation agency of iqbusiness Retail media has emerged as an advertising powerhouse in the international market, becoming a major revenue generator for players such as Amazon over the past few years. Now, the trend is catching on in South Africa as leading online retailers such as
- [The evolution of corporate reporting and strategic decision-making](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-evolution-of-corporate-reporting-and-strategic-decision-making/) - In the dynamic world of corporate reporting and planning, the terminology we use often reflects deeper shifts in strategy and technology. Over the years, we’ve witnessed the rise and fall of buzzwords like Corporate Performance Management (CPM) and Enterprise Performance Management (EPM), each promising to revolutionise how we approach financial oversight. Yet, as the business
- [Building resilient economies: A call to action for South African businesses](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/building-resilient-economies-a-call-to-action-for-south-african-businesses/) - The path to a resilient economy is paved with the intentional dismantling of systemic barriers that have historically held women back. From tackling the gender pay gap to ensuring representation in senior leadership, the responsibility lies with corporate South Africa to lead this charge. This means creating a workplace culture where women are not only
- [Mind the chaos comfort zone & build for better, not more - A South African tech founder reflects on purpose and success](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/mind-the-chaos-comfort-zone-build-for-better-not-more-a-south-african-tech-founder-reflects-on-purpose-and-success/) - I’ve been building, selling, and hustling in some form since I could hold a paintbrush or a flag toothpick. Around age 7 or 8, on holiday with my family in Sodwana during the Olympics. I made tiny country flags, stuck them onto toothpicks, and walked around selling them at the resort for R1 each. That
- [AI’s transformative role in financial services: driving innovation and inclusion](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ais-transformative-role-in-financial-services-driving-innovation-and-inclusion/) - Ravi Bhat, Chief Solutions and AI Transformation Officer at Microsoft South Africa Artificial intelligence (AI) is, and will continue to redefine financial services, moving beyond operational efficiency to fundamentally shift decision-making, security, customer engagement, and financial inclusion. This trend is being seen locally with South African banks and financial institutions increasingly integrating AI to not
- [The Power of Two: Where Innovation Happens at the Intersection](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-power-of-two-where-innovation-happens-at-the-intersection/) - Some of the most exciting ideas happen when two worlds collide. At this point of intersection, which we’ll call “X”, sparks fly, new possibilities emerge, and entire industries can shift. This is the essence of the Power of Two: the magic that happens when distinct ideas, industries, or movements meet to create something unique. Finding your
- [South African women lead in early cancer detection, driving better outcomes](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-african-women-lead-in-early-cancer-detection-driving-better-outcomes/) - An analysis of Liberty’s 2024 Claim Statistics has revealed a compelling trend: South African women are more proactive than men in undergoing early cancer screening, leading to earlier diagnoses and improved recovery outcomes. According to the insurer’s annual claims report, cancer accounted for 37.2% of all claims made by women, compared to 27.9% for men.
- [Rethinking the approach to dealing with workplace harassment](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/rethinking-the-approach-to-dealing-with-workplace-harassment/) - By Helen Wilsenach, Partner and Chloë Loubser, Knowledge and Learning Lawyer: Employment & Data Protection, Bowmans Harassment in the workplace, encompassing not only sexual harassment but also bullying and other forms of dignity harm, presents significant legal risks for employers. These risks include potential claims of unfair discrimination under the Employment Equity Act, 1998 (EEA),
- [Stop filling roles and start solving problems](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/stop-filling-roles-and-start-solving-problems/) - Frik van der Westhuizen, CEO of EQPlus Hiring should not be a default reaction. Yet for many businesses, it still is. Someone leaves, a new deal lands, or delivery falls behind, and the immediate reflex is to post a job. But that approach often misses what the business actually needs. Hiring should start with the
- [Creating smarter south african retail experiences](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/creating-smarter-south-african-retail-experiences/) - In recent years, there’s been a dramatic shift in the way people shop and the way brands connect with them. And while much of this shift might seem seamless from the outside, more often than not, it’s quietly being powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). For retailers, embracing AI isn’t just about
- [Why Big Business Needs to Rethink Its Relationship with SMMEs](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-big-business-needs-to-rethink-its-relationship-with-smmes/) - Opinion by Matsie Mpshe, Founder and Managing Director at The Transformation Firm and Founder of the SMME Empowerment Summit South Africa has over 2.5 million small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs), employing nearly 10 million people. Yet, many of these businesses are still viewed by corporates through the narrow lens of CSI or supplier development
- [Sanofi steps up investment in SA healthcare with new leadership and stronger local partnerships](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/sanofi-steps-up-investment-in-sa-healthcare-with-new-leadership-and-stronger-local-partnerships/) - Sanofi has reaffirmed its commitment to South African healthcare with the appointment of two senior leaders and a renewed focus on supporting healthcare professionals, expanding local partnerships, and improving access to essential treatments in key areas such as vaccines, immunology, and rare diseases. “This is a new chapter for Sanofi in South Africa,” says Jean-Baptiste
- [What happens to your retirement savings after retrenchment? Know your rights](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/what-happens-to-your-retirement-savings-after-retrenchment-know-your-rights/) - Retrenchment is more than just losing your job. It can be a deeply destabilising experience that affects your income and savings for years to come. For many South Africans, the biggest question is: What happens to my pension fund if I’m retrenched? And just as important: What are my rights in the retrenchment process itself?
- [Career Reinvention Starts Here: How HR Analytics is Changing the Game](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/career-reinvention-starts-here-how-hr-analytics-is-changing-the-game/) - South Africa’s world of work is evolving at a rapid pace, shaped by digital disruption, economic challenges, demographic shifts, and the growing demand for more flexible and meaningful career experiences. Traditional career paths, linear, hierarchical, and often defined by tenure no longer align with how people want to work or how organisations need to operate.
- [Why B2B Thought Leadership Matters in 2025](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-b2b-thought-leadership-matters-in-2025/) - In an environment where buyers self-educate and buying cycles are longer, thought leadership has shifted from being a “nice to have” to a strategic revenue driver. Nearly all B2B buyers are off the market most of the time – 95% aren’t actively looking – which means brands must capture attention before buyers enter a formal
- [Uncovering South African Entrepreneurs' Hidden Business Risks](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/uncovering-south-african-entrepreneurs-hidden-business-risks/) - While South African entrepreneurs are growing increasingly sophisticated in planning for long-term growth and succession, a critical and often overlooked insurance gap is leaving a vast number of small and medium-sized businesses dangerously exposed. South African needs-matched life insurer, BrightRock, reveals a snapshot of business insurance trends, highlighting both the cover entrepreneurs prioritise, such as
- [ASI unveils 300 million Rand ETA Search Fund to drive employment and economic growth in SA](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/asi-unveils-300-million-rand-eta-search-fund-to-drive-employment-and-economic-growth-in-sa/) - For generations, South Africa’s small and medium-sized businesses have been the quiet engine behind our economy, creating jobs, supporting families, and building communities. Yet many of these businesses now face a silent crisis: as their founders age, they often have no clear path to succession. On the other hand, a growing number of young, skilled,
- [Why banks are using talent mapping as competitive intelligence for succession planning](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-banks-are-using-talent-mapping-as-competitive-intelligence-for-succession-planning/) - Succession planning in the African banking landscape has evolved. It is no longer just about identifying who’s next, it’s about understanding where the market is headed, which leadership skills are in demand, and how competitors are structuring their executive teams. In an increasingly competitive and interconnected sector, banks are turning to external talent mapping not
- [From Pit to Platform: Reinventing Mine Maintenance with GenAI](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/from-pit-to-platform-reinventing-mine-maintenance-with-genai/) - Unplanned maintenance now accounts for 60% of mine site maintenance spending which is why innovative solutions have become a mission critical lever for operators worldwide. ‍According to recent findings from BCG’s AI Radar, adopting the right Generative AI (GenAI) tools can transform predictive capabilities and cut costs by 10%. ‍Unlike traditional, fixed schedule methods based
- [South Africans are less stressed about money, but pressures persist](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-africans-are-less-stressed-about-money-but-pressures-persist/) - South Africans are notably less worried about money than they have been for the past two years, with levels of financial stress returning to those last experienced in 2022. Despite this, money stress remains a significant issue for many people. This is according to the fourth annual DebtBusters Money-Stress Tracker, which surveyed over 27,000 respondents
- [Africa’s moment: Can the continent lead the global AI governance revolution?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/africas-moment-can-the-continent-lead-the-global-ai-governance-revolution/) - As Artificial Intelligence (AI) accelerates faster than global governance structures can keep up, Daniel Novitzkas, Chairman of leading tech innovation firm Specno, is calling on Africa’s tech leaders to seize a historic opportunity: to shape the ethical future of AI – not just for the continent, but for the world. “AI will transform every aspect
- [Goodwall, HP Inc and Microsoft launch NextGen AI Alliance programme to equip youth for the future of work](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/goodwall-hp-inc-and-microsoft-launch-nextgen-ai-alliance-programme-to-equip-youth-for-the-future-of-work/) - Building digital and AI fluency to prepare youth for the future economy In a groundbreaking move to bridge the AI access gap, Goodwall has joined forces with Microsoft and HP Inc to launch the NextGen AI Alliance, an innovative global partnership designed to equip young people with the skills to harness the opportunities AI creates. Timed ahead of key global milestones such
- [SA institutions must stop recycling familiar faces and invest in real talent to fix economy](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/sa-institutions-must-stop-recycling-familiar-faces-and-invest-in-real-talent-to-fix-economy/) - Experts deliberate on how a leadership deficit is stalling South Africa’s progress While policy reform and institutional overhauls remain critical talking points, a deeper challenge continues to undermine the nation’s socio-economic progress: a chronic leadership deficit at the heart of its public and private institutions. This was the stark warning delivered by TP Nchocho, former
- [Cover reimagined: Where self-insurance meets traditional protection](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/cover-reimagined-where-self-insurance-meets-traditional-protection/) - Richard Hood, CEO of OLEA South Africa For many established businesses, conventional insurance can feel like a necessary evil, a grudge purchase that delivers diminishing value over time. Yet, the transition from traditional coverage to self-insurance is not a leap of faith but a calculated step in risk maturity. In the past, self-insurance was traditionally
- [The Role of AI in Ethical and Unethical Hacking: Implications for Business](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-role-of-ai-in-ethical-and-unethical-hacking-implications-for-business/) - Magix R&D Lab has released an insightful White Paper titled “The Role of AI in Ethical and Unethical Hacking: Implications for Business,” authored by Tim Butler, with co-authors Floyd Tshoma and Hlayisani Shondlani from the Magix R&D Lab. This comprehensive study delves into the dual role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the realm of cybersecurity,
- [The evolution of cyber threats: key insights from Microsoft's latest Cyber Signals report](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-evolution-of-cyber-threats-key-insights-from-microsofts-latest-cyber-signals-report/) - Kerissa Varma, Chief Security Advisor Africa, Microsoft As cyber threats continue to evolve at an unprecedented pace, Microsoft’s latest cybersecurity intelligence reveals a complex landscape where artificial intelligence (AI) is both empowering defenders and enabling sophisticated criminal enterprises. Drawing from Microsoft’s synthesis of over 75 trillion daily security signals and recent threat intelligence, several critical trends are
- [Streamlining the visa application process can boost recovery and growth in tourism](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/streamlining-the-visa-application-process-can-boost-recovery-and-growth-in-tourism/) - Lee-Anne Bac, Advisory Partner, BDO South Africa Government’s decision to streamline and reduce bureaucratic delays to process and issue tourist visas is a positive development that will help boost recovery and growth of the tourism and leisure sector which has yet to rebound to levels last experienced in 2008/19. Obtaining visas has been a significant
- [Women in Architecture: Sasha Maharajh on creating spaces that shape experiences](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/women-in-architecture-sasha-maharajh-on-creating-spaces-that-shape-experiences/) - For Sasha Maharajh, Project Architect at BPAS, architecture was not a childhood dream but a discovery – one she made after a detour through studying a BA in psychology. She quickly discovered that it was not for her and embarked on a draughting course instead. “I started working in a small practice where I began to
- [Enabling financial inclusion: How Stablecoins are powering informal markets](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/enabling-financial-inclusion-how-stablecoins-are-powering-informal-markets/) - As stablecoins gain global traction for their role in transforming cross-border payments, Lipaworld is helping bring this technology into everyday use across Africa. The venture-backed fintech platform has entered the South African market to support freelancers, immigrants, and informal businesses with faster, safer alternatives to conventional banking and remittance systems. Unlike speculative crypto products, stablecoins
- [South Africans take bold action toward financial freedom, latest OMSIM report shows](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-africans-take-bold-action-toward-financial-freedom-latest-omsim-report-shows/) - Despite the persistent pressures of a challenging economic climate, employed South Africans are showing resilience and a renewed sense of optimism. Many are not only hopeful about the future but are also taking deliberate steps to improve their financial wellbeing. These are the key insights from the 2025 Old Mutual Savings & Investment Monitor (OMSIM),
- [Africa's Hidden AI Advantage: How Resource Constraints Drive Superior Innovation](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/africas-hidden-ai-advantage-how-resource-constraints-drive-superior-innovation/) - Building technological sovereignty through human-centered AI development By Archana Arakkal, Lead Research Engineer: Technology Office Africa stands at a crossroads. While global AI spending surges to $632 billion by 2028¹, we face a critical choice: adopt implementation models designed for resource-abundant environments, or build solutions optimized for African realities. Through my work implementing AI systems
- [There is a small business funding readiness crisis in SA - the missing link in MSME growth](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/there-is-a-small-business-funding-readiness-crisis-in-sa-the-missing-link-in-msme-growth/) - According to the SA MSME Access to Finance Report 2025, the number of black-owned, women-owned and youth-led businesses have increased since 2018, and are now driving a much larger share of MSME (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) funding applications. Black-owned MSMEs accounted for 83.7% of all funding requests in 2024, a significant increase from 66% in
- [Africa's tech industry still faces gender gap](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/africas-tech-industry-still-faces-gender-gap/) - At the current rate of progress, it will take until 2158, which is roughly five generations from now, to reach full gender parity, according to data from the World Economic Forum. Significant barriers to gender equality remain, yet with the right action and support, positive progress can be made for women everywhere. Business leaders from
- [Leaders gather to assess global financial architecture and highlight key priorities for South Africa’s G20 presidency](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/leaders-gather-to-assess-global-financial-architecture-and-highlight-key-priorities-for-south-africas-g20-presidency/) - World leaders assess the global financial system & key priorities for South Africa’s G20 Presidency. Explore insights & economic strategies. Read full article.
- [Investing for the first time? Avoid these Investment mistakes](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/investing-for-the-first-time-avoid-these-investment-mistakes/) - Making your first investment can be exciting, but also intimidating. With so much information (and misinformation) out there, it is easy to make mistakes that could cost you down the line. The good news is that, with the right knowledge and support, you can avoid the most common stumbling blocks and make smarter, more confident
- [Emotional Intelligence Isn’t Only a Human Experience: What AI Is Already Learning](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/emotional-intelligence-isnt-only-a-human-experience-what-ai-is-already-learning/) - By Georgina Joy Read We keep hearing the same line: “AI will never replace humans — because it can’t empathise. It can’t copy what makes us human.” Really? I’m not so sure. I heard a conversation on Cape Talk this week where someone suggested that AI wouldn’t threaten call centre jobs because it lacks the
- [The latest South Africa Spencer Stuart Board Index: diversity and female representation stand out.](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-latest-south-africa-spencer-stuart-board-index-diversity-and-female-representation-stand-out/) - Diversity features prominently in the annual South Africa Spencer Stuart Board Index, which reports that women currently hold 37% of board director positions within JSE Top 50 companies, up from 35% in 2023. They also hold 40% of non-executive director (NED) positions as well as 22% of executive director (CEO/CFO) positions. However, women are still underrepresented. In
- [The emergency fund: The first glass you need to fill](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-emergency-fund-the-first-glass-you-need-to-fill/) - Thomas Brennan, CEO and Co-founder of Franc Every year, as Savings Month rolls around in South Africa, the conversation tends to follow a familiar script: we’re not saving enough for retirement; debt levels remain high; too few people invest. All true but missing the type of savings many need most: an emergency fund. At Franc, we’ve
- [Wired for Success: Good Leaders Know Their Brains](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/wired-for-success-good-leaders-know-their-brains/) - Leaders operate in high-pressure environments that demand quick decision-making, adaptability and resilience. Understanding the brain’s cognitive processes – how it handles risk, creativity, stress and motivation – can help them enhance their leadership skills, drive innovation and build mental resilience for long-term success, writes Dr Phyllis Ndlovu, CEO of Kisima Psychological Services. Gaining a rudimentary
- [Small steps. Big gains: Top tips for saving even when money is tight](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/small-steps-big-gains-top-tips-for-saving-even-when-money-is-tight/) - Let’s face it, for most of us, money has felt tighter than ever. Whether it’s rising costs, unexpected bills, or just trying to stretch each rand a little further, many South Africans are navigating a season where ‘just making it work’ is a daily mantra. And yet, through resourcefulness, discipline, and a little bit of
- [Forecasting feelings: A new language for mental health](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/forecasting-feelings-a-new-language-for-mental-health/) - Mental Health is a global health crisis. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 1 billion people worldwide [1]were living with a Mental Disorder in 2019, and Depression and Anxiety increased by 25%[2] in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Suicide remains one of the leading causes[3] of death among young people aged 15–29, with over 700 000 deaths
- [Empowering South Africa’s Future Through STEM: Launch of the 2025 eduCate Matric Maths and Science Revision Programme Aimed at Bridging South Africa's STEM Skills Gap](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/empowering-south-africas-future-through-stem-launch-of-the-2025-educate-matric-maths-and-science-revision-programmeaimed-at-bridging-south-africas-stem-skills-gap/) - South Africa is at a critical juncture. As the Fourth Industrial Revolution transforms global economies, emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and automation are rapidly reshaping how societies function and how businesses compete. For South Africa to take its place on the global stage, it must urgently address a growing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and
- [Geospatial Data is Transforming Property Development in South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/geospatial-data-is-transforming-property-development-in-south-africa/) - South Africa’s property development landscape holds massive potential. With demand for multifamily housing on the rise and evolving market dynamics, developers are under increasing pressure to identify the right locations that will yield high returns. But understanding where to build requires more than just identifying available land. It requires understanding the landscape, the people, and
- [B-BBEE Transformation - it's Okay to Unlearn Things, Sit in Discomfort, or Change Direction](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/b-bbee-transformation-its-okay-to-unlearn-things-sit-in-discomfort-or-change-direction/) - By Dimpho Sepeng, Social Media Manager at the BEE Chamber B-BBEE Transformation challenges us, not just in how we do business, but in how we think, lead and engage, and it is okay if we do not get it perfect right away. It is okay if we need to unlearn some things, sit in discomfort, or
- [Artificial Intelligence: The future of auditing digital footprints](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/artificial-intelligence-the-future-of-auditing-digital-footprints/) - by Ashwini Singh Being one of the buzz phrases of the year, Artificial Intelligence has assimilated itself into numerous sectors of academia and business. In the forensic investigation and auditing spheres, Artificial Intelligence has proven that it can be used as an invaluable type of Open Source Intelligence to audit a subject’s digital footprint. Digital
- [Employment Equity 2025: An Updated Guide for South African Businesses](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/employment-equity-2025-an-updated-guide-for-south-african-businesses/) - South Africa’s Department of Employment and Labour introduced a transformative shift in workplace equity with the publication of the final Employment Equity Targets, Regulations, and Administrative Requirements, as detailed in Government Gazette No. 52514. These regulations mandate designated employers to achieve equitable representation of designated groups—Black people, women, and people with disabilities—across all occupational levels
- [Why Rental Credit Checks Matter More Than Ever for Landlords and Tenants](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-rental-credit-checks-matter-more-than-ever-for-landlords-and-tenants/) - In an unpredictable rental market, landlords face increasing pressure to secure reliable tenants. With rents rising sharply in 2025, as reported by the PayProp Rental Index, landlords cannot afford to make leasing decisions based solely on gut feel or references. A single bad tenant can cost thousands in unpaid rent, legal fees, and property damage. That’s
- [Alternative building technology is the foundation for sustainable construction](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/alternative-building-technology-is-the-foundation-for-sustainable-construction/) - As the construction industry pivots towards sustainability, Alternative Building Technologies (ABT) are emerging as a transformative force. These innovative methods and materials are reshaping how civil and building structures are designed, built, and maintained, offering a compelling blend of environmental responsibility, cost-efficiency, and structural integrity. According to Databuild, a leading services and solutions provider in the
- [From Lagos to Cape Town, African fintech giant Paystack is reshaping commerce](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/from-lagos-to-cape-town-african-fintech-giant-paystack-is-reshaping-commerce/) - As Africa continues to be the mobile and innovation hub of the globe, a Nigerian fintech is using the moment to reshape how South Africans see digital innovation from the continent’s largest economy. Paystack, founded in Lagos in 2015 and acquired by global payments company Stripe in 2020, is making steady inroads in South Africa’s
- [Why the future of South Africa’s tech sector depends on young talent](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-the-future-of-south-africas-tech-sector-depends-on-young-talent/) - Ralph Berndt, Head of Sales and Marketing at inq. South Africa If you ask any South African tech leader what keeps them up at night, chances are the answer will not just be the country’s unreliable energy grid or regulation. You can add skills to that list as well. Or more precisely, the lack thereof.
- [Is It Too Late to Study? Here’s Why Adult Education is on the Rise](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/is-it-too-late-to-study-heres-why-adult-education-is-on-the-rise/) - For many adults who never completed their matric or who want to further their education, the question often arises: “Is it too late to go back to studying?” The answer is a clear and resounding no. In fact, adult education is not only possible—it’s becoming more common and more necessary. Why More Adults Are
- [​When shareholder relationships sour: Mediation, minority rights, and how to structure fair dispute resolution](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/when-shareholder-relationships-sour-mediation-minority-rights-and-how-to-structure-fair-dispute-resolution/) - By Ginen Moodley | Business lawyer and Director of Moodley Attorneys Shareholder disputes are among the most disruptive events a company can experience. They often unfold in emotionally charged environments and can lead to stalled decisions, breakdowns in governance, or even full-blown legal action. In South Africa, there is growing recognition of the role that
- [From potential to promotion: Strategies for South African women facing the broken rung](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/from-potential-to-promotion-strategies-for-south-african-women-facing-the-broken-rung/) - The ‘glass ceiling’ is a frequently cited term that describes the barrier preventing women from advancing to senior leadership roles in their professions, regardless of their qualifications or achievements. But it’s becoming clearer that the seeds of this problem are planted much earlier – with that very first step up the career ladder. This is
- [The AI Dilemma - Are we innovating ourselves into irrelevance?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-ai-dilemma-are-we-innovating-ourselves-into-irrelevance/) - “AI is not a tool. It is an agent.” – Yuval Noah Harari A few months ago, I was watching an interview with Yuval Noah Harari on theimplications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for human civilisation. One statement stopped me in my tracks:“AI is not a tool. It is an agent.” Until now, every technological advancement
- [Is wellness a business imperative or an HR tick-box?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/is-wellness-a-business-imperative-or-an-hr-tick-box/) - Wellness is the buzzword of our time, not to mention the feel-good flavour of HR at the moment. How organisations are approaching wellness activities and interventions may vary, from the occasional mental health webinar or training session to smaller everyday gestures like fruit baskets in the canteen, and daily email reminders on self-care, but the
- [The questions you need to ask before you retire](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-questions-you-need-to-ask-before-you-retire/) - There’s a moment in every career when you should stop asking, “How much have I saved for my retirement?” and start asking, “What now?”. Retirement isn’t the end of your financial journey; it’s the beginning of a new one. And, while most of us spend decades building up our retirement savings, far fewer take the
- [Global South again showing higher adoption of AI, BCG report finds](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/global-south-again-showing-higher-adoption-of-ai-bcg-report-finds/) - AI is now woven into the fabric of daily work, with 72% of global respondents using it regularly. But the true value of AI is being captured by a smaller subset of companies that go beyond tool deployment to fully redesign workflows, according to a new report from Boston Consulting Group (BCG), AI at Work 2025:
- [Inclusion That Works: Why disability-inclusive workplaces outperform](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/inclusion-that-works-why-disability-inclusive-workplaces-outperform/) - By Christopher Dodd, iStore CEO South Africa is home to more than five million people living with disabilities — or 15% of the population. Yet a significant 86.7% of this group is unemployed, according to the IRAS Disabled Persons Rate report. People often think of disability inclusion as a charitable pursuit, but it’s much more
- [AI Is Powering a New Healthcare Vision for South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ai-is-powering-a-new-healthcare-vision-for-south-africa/) - Dean Wolson, General Manager: Infrastructure Solutions Group at Lenovo Africa South African healthcare leaders are outpacing their global counterparts when it comes to adopting artificial intelligence, particularly in clinical decision-making and exploring the potential of generative AI. Nearly two-thirds of these leaders have already rolled out remote patient monitoring solutions across a range of
- [Tech trends in education: The digital tools transforming teaching & learning](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/tech-trends-in-education-the-digital-tools-transforming-teaching-learning/) - The global education sector is experiencing a profound transformation, driven by cutting-edge tech trends that are reshaping how teaching and learning occur. In South Africa, institutions at the forefront of global best practice are similarly leveraging innovative pedagogies to create optimised learning environments that prepare students for the challenges and opportunities of the future. Cymbeline
- [Shaping Tomorrow: Why Investing in Youth is More than CSR – It’s a Corporate Imperative](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-henkel-sas-youth-investment-model-is-a-corporate-imperative/) - Charlene Kotze, Human Resources Manager, Henkel South Africa In an era defined by volatility, transformation, and widening inequality, the conversation around talent must begin far earlier than at the hiring table. At Henkel South Africa, we believe that our journey, which begins with early childhood development and extends all the way to executive potential, is
- [NIQ Consumer Tech Trends: The consumer’s hunt for value reshapes the South African market](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/niq-consumer-tech-trends-the-consumers-hunt-for-value-reshapes-the-south-african-market/) - NielsenIQ (NIQ), a leading consumer intelligence company, has recently released its Consumer Tech Industry Trends 2025 report, forecasting global Consumer Tech & Durables (T&D) sales will reach $1.29 trillion—driven by emerging markets, replacement cycles, and premium innovation—in the year ahead. The value of the Middle East & Africa market is expected to rise around 2% to $68
- [How to make your business more (fun)dable](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-to-make-your-business-more-fundable/) - Brent Downard, Head of Credit at Merchant Capital In today’s retail landscape, the most fundable businesses are the ones with diversified revenue streams, clear operational visibility, and a proven appetite for growth. Running a successful retail business in a sector under pressure is not just about selling more of what you already offer. It is
- [South Africa’s G20 moment: Leading a Justice-driven Energy Transition Through Critical Minerals](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-africas-g20-moment-leading-a-justice-driven-energy-transition-through-critical-minerals/) - As South Africa assumes the presidency of the G201 in 2025, momentum continues to build around the role of critical energy transition minerals – such as lithium, cobalt, graphite, and rare earth elements2 – in driving a just and sustainable global energy transition. This follows a growing focus on these resources under previous Global South
- [South Africa’s startup ecosystem isn’t broken. It’s incomplete](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-africas-startup-ecosystem-isnt-broken-its-incomplete/) - By Mitchan Adams, Co-founder of venture builder Aions Creative Technology South Africa’s startup ecosystem is often described as fragmented or underperforming. But in my view, it’s not broken. It’s just incomplete. Too often, the conversation starts at the top without interrogating what’s happening on the ground. We focus on funding rounds and valuations, while the
- [South Africa: The Fair Pay Bill – A catalyst for change](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-africa-the-fair-pay-bill-a-catalyst-for-change/) - South Africa may be on the brink of a major shift in how employers handle remuneration matters in recruitment. The recently introduced Fair Pay Bill (Bill) aims to end salary discrimination and promote equal opportunity in the workplace. At its core, the Bill seeks to ban employers from asking about a candidate’s previous salary history
- [Boosting education technology in Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/boosting-education-technology-in-africa/) - Africa’s population is 1,5 billion today, 70% of which is under 30 years old, making it the world’s youngest. Yet, in the sub-Saharan region only, 98 million children are currently out-of-school. Not to mention another 72 million young people, aged from 15 to 24, who are neither trained nor employed: two thirds of them are
- [Thoughts on 40 years of successful operations on the African continent](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/thoughts-on-40-years-of-successful-operations-on-the-african-continent/) - By Jacques Taylor , CEO TATA Africa Doing business in Africa is challenging for any company in any industry sector, but with 40 years of experience in the field, Tata Group has established itself as a company that is both commercially successful and relevant to the diverse demographic and geographical communities in which it operates
- [Redefining small business success could be the shift we need to drive real economic progress in South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/redefining-small-business-success-could-be-the-shift-we-need-to-drive-real-economic-progress-in-south-africa/) - South Africa’s small business sector contributes an estimated 34% to GDP and employs about 59% of the total workforce. Yet, despite their critical role in driving inclusive growth and innovation, only 6% of small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) secure formal loans to expand their operations, with 44% relying instead on personal savings. Whilst it
- [Why Every Teenager Needs a Mental Health Screening](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-every-teenager-needs-a-mental-health-screening/) - In February this year South African news outlets shared heartbreaking reports of a 14-year-old in Cape Town who allegedly died by suicide after being bullied. The news came just two months after two grade 10 learners in Limpopo tragically took their own lives after receiving disappointing exam results. Sadly, these are not isolated incidents. According
- [NTT DATA Research Reveals C-Suite Misalignment Over GenAI Adoption](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ntt-data-research-reveals-c-suite-misalignment-over-genai-adoption/) - NTT DATA, a global leader in digital business and technology services, today launched its new report, “The AI Security Balancing Act: From Risk to Innovation,” highlighting the opportunities and risks AI presents in cybersecurity. The findings show a misalignment among C-Suite leaders when it comes to business goals and operational readiness for GenAI deployment. The report, which
- [Seven strategic shifts to attract investment into South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/seven-strategic-shifts-to-attract-investment-into-south-africa/) - By Rowan de Klerk, CEO at The CFO Centre South Africa is not short of potential. We have a strategic geographic position, a well-capitalised financial sector, a sophisticated legal framework, and untapped opportunities across energy, mining, manufacturing and agriculture. Despite this, the mood among investors is increasingly restless. The private sector is no longer quietly
- [Gamification in loyalty programs helps drive engagement through play](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/gamification-in-loyalty-programs-helps-drive-engagement-through-play/) - Len Lubbe, CEO and Founder of LoyaltyPlus Customer engagement is the foundation on which any successful loyalty program is built. As businesses compete for people’s attention, gamification is quickly becoming a more creative and innovative way of developing dynamic and rewarding loyalty experiences. By leveraging mechanics such as levelling up, unlocking milestones, and introducing competitive
- [Technology as a Tool for Youth Empowerment in South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/technology-as-a-tool-for-youth-empowerment-in-south-africa/) - Zulaikha Goolam, iSchoolAfrica Disability Inclusion & Accessibility Programme Manager It is unwise to underestimate the influence and capacity for radical transformation of which our youth is capable. On 16 June 1976, thousands of young South Africans took to the streets of Soweto, armed with nothing but their voices and a belief that education should be
- [Beyond the Hype: Why Africa Must Lead Its Own AI Education Revolution](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/beyond-the-hype-why-africa-must-lead-its-own-ai-education-revolution/) - By Dr Nyx McLean – Head of Research and Postgraduate Studies, Eduvos As artificial intelligence continues to sweep into higher education with Silicon Valley-style excitement, Africa faces a far more urgent and complex challenge. While higher education institutions in the Global South embrace AI tools with open arms, we risk importing technologies that don’t reflect our realities,
- [Old Mutual Multi-Managers now going to market as Symmetry](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/old-mutual-multi-managers-now-going-to-market-as-symmetry/) - Economic policymaking is now as unpredictable as the markets themselves. The delayed US trade tariff regime, which is prompting policy shifts worldwide, is just one of many global events shaking investor confidence. Ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, coupled with evolving financial regulations, are adding to the uncertainty. As a result, client expectations
- [Is the retail investing model due for an overhaul?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/is-the-retail-investing-model-due-for-an-overhaul/) - By David Lloyd, Founder of King Alexander Investments The mainstream retail investment industry has always offered the same operating model: advisors, investment product wrappers, funds, and platforms. Of course, there is nothing wrong with this. Advisors provide essential planning and advice, products offer tax benefits, fund managers generate returns via the funds they manage, and
- [Redefining leadership for impact: Why the right hires now shape tomorrow’s South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/redefining-leadership-for-impact-why-the-right-hires-now-shape-tomorrows-south-africa/) - By Wendy Spalding, Director at Tuesday Consulting Leadership isn’t what it used to be – and the recent headline-making meeting between Donald Trump, and President Ramaphosa (supported by Johann Rupert, golfers Ernie Els and Retief Goosen, Vice President of Business Unity SA and Group Chief Executive Officer at Discovery Adrian Gore, and Congress of SA
- [Rebuilding our workplace muscles: Why communication needs practice, not just tools](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/rebuilding-our-workplace-muscles-why-communication-needs-practice-not-just-tools/) - Bernadette Froelich, Chief HR Officer at DAC Systems It’s been a few years since the height of the pandemic, but many of us are still recalibrating not just how we work, but how we connect. The long stretch of isolation during COVID and the fragmented shift to hybrid work didn’t just change our environments but
- [African Gen Z on the rise in the global influence economy](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/african-gen-z-on-the-rise-in-the-global-influence-economy/) - Across the African continent compelling economic and demographic forces are converging to position Gen Z, along with Gen Alpha, as the major force to shape the future of work, culture and consumerism. Africa is by far the most youthful region of the world. According to the International Labour Organisation, around 375 million young Africans will
- [Investing without the emotional rollercoaster](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/investing-without-the-emotional-rollercoaster/) - Rico Ernst, Chief Executive Officer, Aurora Capital SA Investing should not feel like an emotional rollercoaster. But for most investors, it does. Markets rise, and excitement builds. Markets fall, and panic sets in. This cycle of greed and fear often leads to poor financial decisions such as buying high when confidence is strong and selling
- [Cancel Culture Is Costly – Why 7 in 10 JSE Firms Are Unprepared for Digital Reputational Warfare](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/cancel-culture-is-costly-why-7-in-10-jse-firms-are-unprepared-for-digital-reputational-warfare/) - In an era where every tweet, every post or like can spiral into a boycott and misinformation spreads faster than truth, corporate reputation is not just a PR concern-it’s a boardroom imperative. My recent research into how JSE-listed companies perceive and respond to the weaponization of social media uncovered a sobering reality: while awareness of
- [How not to end up with nothing when you sell your business](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-not-to-end-up-with-nothing-when-you-sell-your-business/) - Author: Rowan De Klerk, CEO of The CFO Centre South Africa Most South African business owners are in for a rude awakening when it comes time to sell. Despite years —often decades —of hard work, many walk away with little more than the satisfaction of having built something. The uncomfortable truth? Most businesses are not
- [NTT DATA Unveils Smart AI AgentTM Ecosystem, Revolutionizing Industry Solutions with Intelligent Automation and Strategic Alliances](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ntt-data-unveils-smart-ai-agenttm-ecosystem-revolutionizing-industry-solutions-with-intelligent-automation-and-strategic-alliances/) - NTT DATA, a global leader in digital business and technology services, today announced a comprehensive enterprise-grade Smart AI AgentTM Ecosystem with industry-specific solutions to help clients transform their business. The company also announced a patented plug-in solution that turns legacy bots into autonomous intelligent agents, and an expanded key alliance network for providing best-fit solutions. “The rapid
- [Transforming Data into Actionable Insight for Banking and Financial Services](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/transforming-data-into-actionable-insight-for-banking-and-financial-services/) - In an era of increasing data volume, the real challenge isn’t access to information—it’s interpreting data and transforming it into meaningful, actionable insights. At AfriGIS, we firmly believe that data, while abundant, holds no intrinsic value until we can contextualise it. With our services, we help businesses, including those in the banking and finance sector,
- [New data reveals who in the MSME space is getting funded and who is being left behind](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/new-data-reveals-who-in-the-msme-space-is-getting-funded-and-who-is-being-left-behind/) - Finfind, South Africa’s leading online access to finance solution for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), has released the highly anticipated SA MSME Access to Finance Report 2025 in partnership with African Bank. This second edition follows the landmark inaugural report published in 2018 and presents an unparalleled data-rich analysis of the MSME finance provider
- [Graduate unemployment : How to bridge the divide between university & workplace](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/bridge-the-divide-between-university-workplace/) - South Africa’s graduate unemployment rate has surged from 8.7% last year to 11.7% this year, which has prompted questions about the value of a university degree in a struggling economy. However, the question should not be about the value of further education, but rather the systemic – yet clearly identifiable and addressable – issues that
- [BCG 2025 Value-creators Report – OUTsurance, Harmony Gold and Gold Fields shine as SA’s value creators](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/bcg-2025-value-creators-report-outsurance-harmony-gold-and-gold-fields-shine-as-sas-value-creators/) - After a decade of growth, what’s next? Key metrics and factors driving value creation in 2025 BCG’s 2025 Value-creators Report highlights global shifts, and examines the value creation landscape for South African companies A new report from Boston Consulting Group (BCG) titled 2025 Value Creators: After a Decade of Growth, What’s Next? provides insights into the
- [How Ekasi, Witsand, and Beyond Are Reshaping Commerce](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-ekasi-witsand-and-beyond-are-reshaping-commerce/) - The South African retail sector has a small but tenacious newcomer to the world of payment solution options. Amidst economic instability, currency devaluation, and a growing unbanked population, Bitcoin is emerging as a lifeline for businesses and communities. From grassroots initiatives like Bitcoin Ekasi to national chains like Pick ‘n Pay embracing bitcoin, the nation
- [Understanding Global Shifts and Strategic Responses for South African Traders](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/understanding-global-shifts-and-strategic-responses-for-south-african-traders/) - By Zihaad Israfil, CEO of CFI Financial Group South Africa “At a time when headlines move markets, and geopolitical risks evolve seemingly by the hour, today’s traders must stay sharper than ever. The global financial landscape is shifting, inflation is volatile, and interest rates are becoming increasingly fluid. For South African traders, these forces are inexorably
- [Whose design is it anyway? The impact of AI on creative careers](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/whose-design-is-it-anyway-the-impact-of-ai-on-creative-careers/) - Artificial Intelligence (AI) has transformed a multitude of fields, from business and law to ICT, where it has proven invaluable in analysing data, improving efficiencies, and identifying patterns. In these domains, AI’s role is rather linear: it processes information, supports decision-making, and sometimes even drives innovation. However, in the creative industries and design, where processes
- [Culture of compliance: Making compliance practical for SMMEs and Start-ups](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/culture-of-compliance-making-compliance-practical-for-smmes-and-start-ups/) - By Ginen Moodley | Director of Moodley Attorneys In the dynamic world of small and medium-sized businesses (SMMEs) and startups, compliance is often seen as a burdensome obligation rather than a strategic necessity. For many entrepreneurs, especially those with limited resources, the process of adhering to legal regulations can feel like a drain on both
- [PR is entering its defining era – not its demise](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/pr-is-entering-its-defining-era-not-its-demise/) - By Bradly Howland – President-Elect: Public Relations Institute of Southern Africa (PRISA) There is no question that the public relations profession is changing. But the change is not collapse. Transformation is not crisis. Globally, and here at home, PR is not standing still. It’s standing up. The 2024–2025 ICCO World PR Report provides powerful
- [What’s fuelling severe asthma in SA, and how to fix it](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/whats-fuelling-severe-asthma-in-sa-and-how-to-fix-it/) - May is Asthma Awareness Month, an important opportunity to focus on the challenges faced by people living with asthma in South Africa, particularly those with severe and uncontrolled symptoms. Asthma is one of the country’s most common chronic illnesses, affecting millions of adults and children. South Africa has one of the highest asthma-related death rates
- [Incorporating AI into Workforce Planning: Optimising Skills for the South African Workforce of the Future – Part 1](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/incorporating-ai-into-workforce-planning-optimising-skills-for-the-south-african-workforce-of-the-future-part-1/) - The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into workforce planning is revolutionising how organisations prepare for the demands of the future. In South Africa, where unemployment stands at 33% (Stats SA, 2024) and skills mismatches persist, AI presents a transformative opportunity to align workforce capabilities with economic needs. By leveraging AI for talent acquisition, process optimisation,
- [The often-overlooked CFO of the home: Why mothers matter in financial planning](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-often-overlooked-cfo-of-the-home-why-mothers-matter-in-financial-planning/) - In conversations about financial planning, we often focus on breadwinners, advisors, and balance sheets. But one of the most powerful and underappreciated financial roles in society is that of the mother as the CFO of the household. From budgeting for school lunches to setting the tone for how money is talked about at home, mothers
- [Bridging the cybersecurity workforce gap: a global and African imperative](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/bridging-the-cybersecurity-workforce-gap-a-global-and-african-imperative/) - By Hamid Maher, Kevin Huard, Hakim Hamane, Younes Zrikem of Boston Consulting Group The digital age has brought unparalleled opportunities for innovation, connectivity, and economic growth. At the same time, it has also introduced a growing array of cyber threats that challenge the resilience of organisations, governments, and individuals worldwide. The 2024 Cybersecurity Workforce Report
- [Incorporating AI into Workforce Planning: Optimising Skills for the South African Workforce of the Future – Part 2](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/incorporating-ai-into-workforce-planning-optimising-skills-for-the-south-african-workforce-of-the-future-part-2/) - Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping workforce planning, offering South African organisations a pathway to address unemployment, skills shortages, and inefficiencies. With an unemployment rate of 33% and a youth unemployment rate exceeding 60% (Stats SA, 2024), AI’s ability to align workforce capabilities with economic demands is critical. Last week, Part 1 of this series explored
- [From quick hits to lasting impact: The role of short-form content in brand growth](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/from-quick-hits-to-lasting-impact-the-role-of-short-form-content-in-brand-growth/) - By Tanika Corneleus, Digital Campaign Lead at midnight, the innovation agency of iqbusiness In today’s cluttered digital media world, brands have mere seconds to capture attention before users scroll past. To stand out, they need short, engaging content that delivers key messages quickly—before the next viral trend takes over. Consumer attention is one of the most
- [Shaping a practical healthcare system for South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/shaping-a-practical-healthcare-system-for-south-africa/) - Zanele Matome, CEO of Welo Health South Africa’s healthcare system is under immense pressure. From ageing infrastructure to overburdened public hospitals, the cracks are widening, and the consequences are deeply human. The truth is that our system was never designed to serve over 48 million people. Yet, that is exactly the weight it now carries.
- [The Future Was Supposed to Be Unknowable - Until AI Started Getting It Right](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-future-was-supposed-to-be-unknowable/) - Can artificial intelligence predict the future? A new wave of AI-powered prediction tools is beginning to challenge one of our oldest assumptions: that the future is inherently uncertain. After correctly forecasting the Bitcoin spike and achieving over 80% accuracy in March Madness, the AI prediction platform 4C Predictions is forcing analysts, investors, and skeptics to take a second look. “It’s
- [How AI can help address SA’s unemployment and inequality challenges](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-ai-can-help-address-sas-unemployment-and-inequality-challenges/) - By Rowen Pillai, CEO of LeanTechnovations South Africa currently grapples with one of the world’s highest unemployment rates, standing at a staggering 31.9% in 2024, with youth unemployment exceeding 60%. This challenge is compounded by deep-seated structural issues like inequality and inadequate access to education, creating a skills mismatch that leaves many job seekers unprepared
- [Glocal Greatness Unleashed: John Sanei & Erik Kruger’s Expansive Book Redefines Leadership](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/glocal-greatness-unleashed-john-sanei-erik-krugers-expansive-book-redefines-leadership/) - A bold call to arms for SA leaders with global ambition. Nine and a half thousand minutes of podcast recording; 240 episodes of fearless conversations and an impact penetration across more than 60 countries – this is the Expansive movement. And the paperback plug-in is about to mic drop. Following the roaring success of their
- [Prioritising workplace wellness by highlighting the importance of sleep health](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/prioritising-workplace-wellness-by-highlighting-the-importance-of-sleep-health/) - 50% of your workforce might be sleep-deprived How South African businesses can improve productivity by addressing staff sleep problems Workplace wellness has long been recognised as important in employee engagement and retention, and productivity. Yet sleep health remains an area of wellness that doesn’t receive adequate attention. According to Dr Alison Bentley, medical doctor
- [Breaking barriers : How adaptive learning can accelerate education in SA](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/breaking-barriers-how-adaptive-learning-can-accelerate-education-in-sa/) - As technological development transforms global education, the education sector in South Africa faces a critical challenge: how to deliver personalised, inclusive, and differentiated learning experiences that meet the diverse needs of every student. “As classrooms grow more diverse, both in learning styles and abilities, schools must adopt innovative approaches to ensure no student is left
- [Ener-G-Africa Launches 5 Clean Cookstove and Solar Retail Outlets in Zambia](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ener-g-africa-launches-5-clean-cookstove-and-solar-retail-outlets-in-zambia/) - Ener-G-Africa (EGA) has opened five retail stores in, Lusaka, Zambia. The stores ensure EGA’s extensive range of energy saving products are more accessible to consumers in Zambia. “Zambia’s heavy reliance on charcoal and firewood for cooking has led to significant environmental degradation, health risks and rising household energy costs. This created a strong demand for cleaner,
- [Foreign cuts force South Africa to rethink healthcare with local solutions](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/foreign-cuts-force-south-africa-to-rethink-healthcare-with-local-solutions/) - Adcock Ingram Critical Care (AICC) newly appointed Operations Executive, Lucelle Iyer South Africa’s healthcare sector faces mounting pressure as international funding withdrawals threaten critical research and services. Without the financial support, medical advancements are being jeopardised and access to care for vulnerable communities is limited. With leading universities bracing for losses exceeding R800 million
- [Solving Africa’s Water Crisis: Rethinking Adaptation for a Water-Resilient Future](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/solving-africas-water-crisis-rethinking-adaptation-for-a-water-resilient-future/) - As climate change accelerates, Africa is under increasing pressure to adapt — not in theory, but in practice. While carbon risk is global and often abstract, water risk is immediate, measurable, and profoundly local. In fact, water is the frontline of climate change in Africa — and the private sector is more exposed than most
- [Navigating a career in HR in the age of AI](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/navigating-a-career-in-hr-in-the-age-of-ai/) - With AI automating routine HR tasks like CV screening, skills assessments, and employee engagement tracking, Human Resources (HR) professionals need new skills, including data literacy and digital fluency, says Sheryll Kisten, Head: Human Resources at STADIO Higher Education. While this may seem daunting, it also creates new career opportunities. Busting HR myths about the role of HR
- [Mastering social media for job searching success](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/mastering-social-media-for-job-searching-success/) - Shani van Eck, Business Administrator at EQPlus In today’s digital age, your online presence is more than a personal diary or collection of memories. It’s a reflection of your professional persona and personal brand, playing a crucial role in the hiring process. While creating an impressive CV and excelling in interviews are key steps to
- [Mental Health in Tertiary Education: Addressing the Pressures Faced by Students](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/mental-health-in-tertiary-education-addressing-the-pressures-faced-by-students/) - By Eloise Nolte, MD at Optimi College Mental health among students in tertiary education has increasingly become an issue demanding focused attention. Students today encounter pressures more complex than institutions, families, and society at large have anticipated. These pressures manifest in multiple aspects of students’ lives – social, emotional, academic, and physical – often resulting
- [Incentivising Managers to Champion Organisational Culture and Employee Engagement](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/incentivising-managers-to-champion-organisational-culture-and-employee-engagement/) - What Is the State of Employee Engagement Today? The very nature of a manager’s role requires a constant balancing act—meeting the demands of senior leadership while supporting the needs of their direct reports. It is therefore deeply concerning that, according to Gallup’s State of the Workplace Report, global employee engagement fell from 23% to 21% last year—costing
- [Seven Decades of Technological Evolution:  A New Generational Framework (1960–2030)](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/seven-decades-of-technological-evolution-a-new-generational-framework-1960-2030/) - Generational theory offers a practical framework for understanding how collective experiences shape human behaviour across time. Scholars have traditionally delineated Baby Boomers, Generation X, and Millennials based on birth year. Yet, as technology accelerates, these broad categories are perhaps oversimplified, much like a one-size-fits-all suit that fits no one perfectly! In this article, I am
- [Teacher support essential for empowering future generations](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/teacher-support-essential-for-empowering-future-generations/) - South Africa’s education system continues to face significant challenges, including historical inequalities and resource constraints, which place immense pressure on teachers. As the nation looks to the future, supporting educators – in both the public or private sector – has become a critical priority to ensure students are equipped with the skills and inspiration they
- [Navigating the Impact of the VAT Increase on South African Wallets and Bottom Lines](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/navigating-the-impact-of-the-vat-increase-on-south-african-wallets-and-bottom-lines/) - By Yolandi Esterhuizen, Director of Global Product Compliance at Sage Africa & Middle East and Registered Tax Practitioner The 2025 Budget Speech delivered by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana highlighted significant fiscal measures aimed at addressing South Africa’s economic challenges. The budget highlighted the government’s commitment to macroeconomic stability, revenue generation, and technological advancements. As a
- [Are Public Holidays Hurting South African Business?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/are-public-holidays-hurting-south-african-business/) - Sorry to be that guy… but we need to talk. South Africa has a public holiday problem. Officially, we clock in 12 public holidays a year – more than Australia (10), the US (10 federal), and the UK (8). But it’s not just the quantity that’s the issue. It’s the clustering – and the ripple
- [The Cashflow Crisis: How Late Payments Threaten South African SMEs and How to Overcome It.](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-cashflow-crisis-how-late-payments-threaten-south-african-smes-and-how-to-overcome-it/) - Cash flow is the lifeblood of any business, but for South African small, and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), it is often the biggest challenge. Late payments from clients can cause severe financial strain, making it difficult to pay suppliers, employees, and operational costs. It has been reported that 91% of South African SMEs experience late payments,
- [Lenovo Unveils New Data Storage Solutions to Accelerate IT Modernisation for the Age of AI](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/lenovo-unveils-new-data-storage-solutions-to-accelerate-it-modernisation-for-the-age-of-ai/) - Lenovo announced its largest storage portfolio refresh in company history, unveiling new Lenovo Data Storage Solutions that prepare enterprise IT for the age of AI with better efficiency, performance and scalability. Ushering in a new era of AI-optimised storage that propels business transformation, the complete portfolio includes storage arrays, software-defined storage (SDI), and new AI
- [Understanding the cost of credit: is your personal loan interest rate within the legal limit?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/understanding-the-cost-of-credit-is-your-personal-loan-interest-rate-within-the-legal-limit/) - Compare interest rates and take control of your finances Despite the relief of no VAT increase and an inflation rate below the Reserve Bank’s target range, many South African consumers will still rely on credit to get through the month. Unfortunately, the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) expects inflation to tick up to an average
- [A ‘Complete Revolution’ in manufacturing: NTT DATA research reveals   GenAI’s transformative potential and impact on core functions](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/a-complete-revolution-in-manufacturing-ntt-data-research-reveals-genais-transformative-potential-and-impact-on-core-functions/) - Despite clear opportunities to improve efficiency and bottom-line performance with GenAI, lack of usage policies and essential guardrails leave most manufacturers at risk. NTT DATA, a global leader in digital business and technology services, today introduced new data that shows manufacturing organizations worldwide are increasingly turning to GenAI to establish smart factories, spur innovation, improve productivity,
- [What Does Agentic AI Mean for Cybersecurity?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/what-does-agentic-ai-mean-for-cybersecurity/) - AI agents will change how we work. But without the right protection, they are soft targets for criminals. If you’ve ever felt frustrated booking trips, finding troubleshooting information, coordinating complex supply chains, or managing any elaborate environment, you’ll be interested in what AI agents offer. AI agents are poised to reshape how we get things
- [From One Car to a R1 Billion Fleet: The Rise of Pace Car Rental](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/from-one-car-to-a-r1-billion-fleet-the-rise-of-pace-car-rental/) - In an era where scaling a business is tougher than ever, South Africa’s Pace Car Rental has defied the odds—growing from a single vehicle in 2006 to a fleet of 5,000 cars valued at over R1 billion. This homegrown success story isn’t just about cars—it’s about innovation, grit, and the changing face of mobility in emerging markets. With
- [Beyond the tick-box: Why employee wellbeing is now a business imperative](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/beyond-the-tick-box-why-employee-wellbeing-is-now-a-business-imperative/) - By Fifi Sali, Human Capital Executive at Vuma, a MAZIV company Health and safety in the South African workplace has long been treated as a compliance exercise, and something to be checked off a list to satisfy a business’s adherence to the Occupational Health and Safety Act. But today, as the nature of work and
- [NIQ report reveals opportunities for private label FMCG growth in South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/niq-report-reveals-opportunities-for-private-label-fmcg-growth-in-south-africa/) - According to NielsenIQ (NIQ) private labels generated sales value of more than R98 billion in South Africa during 2024. The data shows that private labels grew sales value in South Africa by 7.5% in 2024 and accounted for around 18% of total FMCG sales value for the year.* These findings are drawn from NIQ’s new
- [Accountability in PR: Reclaiming ownership in a shifting industry](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/accountability-in-pr-reclaiming-ownership-in-a-shifting-industry/) - “Success has a thousand fathers. And failure is an orphan.” (John F. Kennedy) We’ve all felt it – internally within our agencies and externally in our relationships with clients. It’s the growing trend where ownership is diluted, responsibilities are blurred, and successes and failures are often orphaned. This is a problem that, I believe, knows
- [Unlocking AI potential for South African SMEs: How corporate ESD funds can fuel growth-generative innovation](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/unlocking-ai-potential-for-south-african-smes-how-corporate-esd-funds-can-fuel-growth-generative-innovation/) - South Africa stands at a pivotal moment, where the transformative power of AI intersects with the urgent need for economic revitalisation. While AI holds immense promise, particularly for the SME sector, realising its potential requires a strategic and concerted effort. A key lever in this transformation lies in the effective utilisation of corporate Enterprise and
- [Beware the QR Code Trap: How "Quishing" Threatens Your Business](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/beware-the-qr-code-trap-how-quishing-threatens-your-business/) - By Pieter Nel, Sales Director – SADC , SOPHOS Threat actors are constantly finding new and innovative ways to compromise systems, and the latest technique is “quishing.” Quishing – short for QR code phishing – leverages the growing use of QR codes in workplace communication to bypass traditional phishing defenses. Sophos recently released research from
- [Franc launches tax-free savings account, urges parents to plan for the long-term](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/franc-launches-tax-free-savings-account-urges-parents-to-plan-for-the-long-term/) - Franc, the award-winning investment app known for making investing simple and accessible, has officially launched its new Tax-Free Savings Account, live on its platform since the beginning of March. The offering is designed to help South Africans take full advantage of the tax incentives available while building long-term wealth. “While it is commonly called a
- [The legal implications of employee misconduct: Dismissal, civil claims and criminal charges](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-legal-implications-of-employee-misconduct-dismissal-civil-claims-and-criminal-charges/) - Authors: Ginen Moodley (Director at Moodley Attorneys Inc) and Ezekiel Dikio (Associate at Moodley Attorneys Inc) Employee misconduct, particularly in the form of theft, fraud, and negligence, can have far-reaching legal and financial consequences for businesses. Employers must carefully navigate the legal landscape when dealing with such transgressions, ensuring that appropriate disciplinary procedures are followed
- [Where South African consumers spend and where they try to save](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/where-south-african-consumers-spend-and-where-they-try-to-save/) - On average, South African consumers spend 68% of take-home pay to service debt. How they allocate the rest differs by income band, as does where they try to make savings to stretch their disposable income. The insights are drawn from a DebtBusters’ study of spending patterns across five income groups of consumers who applied for
- [Bring back boring Budgets](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/bring-back-boring-budgets/) - By Mike Benetello, Co-head of Tax, Robyn Berger, Tax Executive, Roné la Grange and Yasmeen Suliman, Partners, Bowmans As we wait for the 2025 Budget Speech to be approved in South Africa, we look back with some longing on the boring and predictable Budgets of the past. Institutional investors, the kind the country is desperate
- [How innovation has revolutionised pension fund administration in the two-pot era](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-innovation-has-revolutionised-pension-fund-administration-in-the-two-pot-era/) - The introduction of the two-pot pension fund system marked a significant shift for fund administrators, requiring them to engage directly with fund members rather than solely with employer groups. In the case of financial advisory firm NMG Benefits, this meant transitioning from managing interactions with 1,500 employer groups to handling inquiries and claims from up
- [The Importance of Employee Health in Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-importance-of-employee-health-in-employee-assistance-programs-eaps/) - Supporting Employee Well-Being for a Thriving Workplace Balancing work, personal life, and health can be overwhelming. Many employees struggle with challenges that impact their physical and mental well-being, often without access to the support they need. This is where Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) play a crucial role. EAPs provide confidential, professional resources to help individuals
- [How much are you really spending? Online and app subscriptions might be getting consumers in financial trouble](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-much-are-you-really-spending-online-and-app-subscriptions-might-be-getting-consumers-in-financial-trouble/) - By Christiaan Coetzee, CEO of FinFix As the digital economy continues to grow and consumers use an app for everything, from ordering food and groceries to online shopping and entertainment through streaming and gaming apps, have you ever sat down with a copy of your monthly bank statement and calculated how much you spend on
- [Private Sector Participation in Commercial Property Sector to Soar](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/private-sector-participation-in-commercial-property-sector-to-soar/) - South Africa’s National Treasury has taken a significant step to streamline public-private partnerships (PPPs) by easing the approval process for projects under R2 billion. This change, which Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana gazetted in February, will come into effect in June this year, effectively removing the need for Treasury to approve smaller-scale PPPs. According to John
- [How start-ups are driving credit education and savings awareness](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-start-ups-are-driving-credit-education-and-savings-awareness/) - National Credit Education Month is a time to spotlight financial literacy and help South Africans take control of their finances. With credit being both a lifeline and a liability, education is key to making informed financial decisions and avoiding debt traps. Aions Ventures invested start-ups, Franc and Level Finance, are reshaping financial wellness by equipping individuals with the
- [Newly renovated state-of-the-art paediatric burns unit launched at Bara](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/newly-renovated-state-of-the-art-paediatric-burns-unit-launched-at-bara/) - In a bid to improve the care, management, and treatment outcomes of paediatric surgical and burns patients, a newly renovated paediatric burns unit to the value of R26 million donated by Surgeons for Little Lives in partnership with the Wells Foundation was officially launched at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital on the 27th March 2025. The
- [Strained SA-US Relations Put AGOA At Risk, But Business Must Retain Compliance for Future Trade Opportunities](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/strained-sa-us-relations-put-agoa-at-risk-but-business-must-retain-compliance-for-future-trade-opportunities/) - South Africa’s current relations with the US is at a crossroad. With fallout from the signing of the Expropriation Act into law, the withdrawal of USAID, and the expulsion of South Africa’s ambassador to the US, tensions have only simmered further, with much debate now around South Africa’s future participation in the African Growth and
- [Think Big, Act fast, start small: A path to water solutions in South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/think-big-act-fast-start-small-a-path-to-water-solutions-in-south-africa/) - Author: Dean Muruven, Associate Director, Boston Consulting Group (BCG) The scale of the water infrastructure crisis in South Africa is immense, but forward-thinking stakeholders in the public and private sectors can position themselves as pockets of excellence by learning from their counterparts in Asia and focusing on the elementsthey can control and act on. The
- [Beyond the algorithm: AI in executive search](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/beyond-the-algorithm-ai-in-executive-search/) - Artificial intelligence has spent the past two years reshaping every industry, and recruitment is no exception. In conversation, it is described as a game changer as it steps in to manage the finding, evaluating and hiring of individuals. In reality, it is not ready to step into human shoes, and probably never should. As a
- [Quiet firing: The legal & ethical minefield of dismissal by stealth](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/quiet-firing-the-legal-ethical-minefield-of-dismissal-by-stealth/) - As the global economy continues to limp along, a new trend has arisen whereby companies engage in a tactic called “quiet firing” in order to reduce the size of the workforce without having to pay severance packages. In South Africa, the term constructive dismissal is generally well understood, and employees are able to turn to
- [Investment Note: Nobody knows anything](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/investment-note-nobody-knows-anything/) - Investing is uncertain—nobody knows everything. Explore key insights into financial markets & strategies to navigate unpredictability. Read full article.
- [Toyota SA and YES partnership drives youth employment in the automotive sector](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/toyota-sa-and-yes-partnership-drives-youth-employment-in-the-automotive-sector/) - Toyota South Africa and the Youth Employment Service (YES) are celebrating the conclusion of Toyota’s sixth YES programme, which has equipped 712 young South Africans – 63% of them being women – with valuable skills to advance their careers in this future-facing sector. The automotive sector, contributing 4.3% to the country’s gross domestic product and
- [BPESA launches refreshed National Value Proposition for SA’s Global Business Services Sector](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/bpesa-launches-refreshed-national-value-proposition-for-sas-global-business-services-sector/) - BPESA launches a refreshed value proposition for South Africa’s GBS sector, driving global competitiveness & job creation. Read Full Article.
- [Breaking Barriers - Why Financial Literacy is Key to Women’s Empowerment](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/breaking-barriers-why-financial-literacy-is-key-to-womens-empowerment/) - Financial literacy is key to women’s empowerment. Learn how South African women can break barriers & gain financial independence. Read full article.
- [Celebrating 30 Years of Transforming Futures: NTT DATA’s Saturday School Program](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/celebrating-30-years-of-transforming-futures-ntt-datas-saturday-school-program/) - NTT Data celebrates 30 years of the Saturday School Program, transforming lives through education & career development in South Africa. Read full article.
- [Databuild Project Lead Generation empowers construction companies with critical data](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/databuild-project-lead-generation-empowers-construction-companies-with-critical-data/) - Discover how Databuild’s project lead generation empowers South African construction companies with critical market data & business growth insights. Read full article.
- [rather.chat Leads in SA Smartbot Industry, Connecting over 22 Million Customers with Businesses](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/rather-chat-leads-in-sa-smartbot-industry-connecting-over-22-million-customers-with-businesses/) - Discover how Rather Chat is transforming South Africa’s smartbot industry, connecting 22M+ customers with businesses through AI-driven chatbots. Read full article.
- [Spotting red flags in brokers and trading platforms](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/spotting-red-flags-in-brokers-and-trading-platforms/) - Learn how to identify fraudulent brokers & trading platforms in South Africa. Get expert tips on secure investments & financial safety. Read full article.
- [It’s time for Africa’s creators to cash in on $17.8 billion](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/its-time-for-africas-creators-to-cash-in-on-17-8-billion/) - It’s time for African creators to tap into the booming $17.8B digital economy. Explore monetization strategies & global opportunities. Read Full article,
- [Private Sector Urged to Support Strained Health System Amid Anticipated Budget Cuts](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/private-sector-urged-to-support-strained-health-system-amid-anticipated-budget-cuts/) - South Africa’s economy is forecast to grow by a modest 1.5% in 2025, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Coupled with the burden of servicing government debt, which is set to exceed R6.05 trillion in 2025/26, this will undermine the country’s tax revenue, necessitating difficult decisions on spending priorities and potential budget cuts in the upcoming Budget Speech
- [Ayoba Integrates TikTok, Expanding Entertainment Across Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ayoba-integrates-tiktok-expanding-entertainment-across-africa/) - In a groundbreaking partnership set to transform Africa’s digital content landscape, Ayoba, Africa’s leading all-in-one super app, has teamed up with TikTok, the globally popular short-form video platform, to directly integrate TikTok’s content within the ayoba app. This marks a first-of-its-kind collaboration on the African continent, bringing TikTok’s engaging and trending content to millions of
- [Misaligned Incentives and Global Disparities in Climate Action](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/misaligned-incentives-and-global-disparities-in-climate-action/) - Insights by Dr Chris Blair “In this article, we take a deep dive into one ESG dimension: climate. What metrics are companies using to measure their progress on climate mitigation? To what extent are they leveraging their remuneration systems to elevate performance in this area? How do corporate approaches differ by industry or geography? This
- [YES partners with Sanlam to launch innovative youth supply development initiative](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/yes-partners-with-sanlam-to-launch-innovative-youth-supply-development-initiative/) - The Youth Employment Service (YES) and Sanlam have partnered to launch an exciting initiative to support 60 youth-owned businesses across South Africa’s creative, green, and digital economy sectors. This partnership marks a logical next step in evolving YES’s approach to tackling structural unemployment challenges in South Africa. According to The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and
- [The Importance of business to business marketing](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/importance-of-business-to-business-marketing/) - Author: Marc Ashton, CEO, Decusatio Investor Communications As we enter 2025, there is a renewed optimism in the air as economic and sentiment indicators suggest that South Africa may be turning a corner and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth could top 2%. While there is still much work to be done to get our economy
- [The impact of Local Supporting Local: LIFT’S win-win game plan](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-impact-of-local-supporting-local-lifts-win-win-game-plan/) - President Ramaphosa’s announcement of a R20 billion fund to empower small businesses in the country at the recent State of the Nation Address (SONA), underscores the importance of South Africa’s approximate 3 million SMMEs. SMMEs have long been recognised as the backbone of South Africa’s economy, a concept which local airline LIFT has recognised since
- [Buying cybersecurity products won't make your business safer. What will?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/buying-cybersecurity-products-wont-make-your-business-safer-what-will/) - Cyberattacks have graduated from “possible” to “probable,” according to a major South African insurer. Businesses must act to reduce cyber risks, which many are doing by spending on new security services. However, this approach often becomes reactive, creating more problems and consuming larger chunks of IT budgets without truly making an organisation safer. But there are
- [What losing US trade benefits means for South Africa’s economy and international payments](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/what-losing-us-trade-benefits-means-for-south-africas-economy-and-international-payments/) - By Harry Scherzer, CEO, Future Forex With South Africa’s preferential benefits under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) uncertain, individuals and businesses are preparing for what many fear could be the end of our special treatment in the market, which will disrupt trade and investment. This shift would put pressure on US-South Africa relations,
- [Preferental launches AI-driven app to revolutionise tenant screening in SA](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/preferental-launches-ai-driven-app-to-revolutionise-tenant-screening-in-sa/) - As South Africa’s property management landscape becomes increasingly complex, the demand for innovative solutions that can simplify and streamline operations has never been greater. Preferental, a leader in property management innovation, has responded to this challenge with the introduction of its new tenant screening app. This state-of-the-art application is set to revolutionise tenant screening by
- [Local PropTech innovator achieves R4.8 Billion in sales in 2024, reshaping SA’s property development landscape](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/local-proptech-innovator-achieves-r4-8-billion-in-sales-in-2024-reshaping-sas-property-development-landscape/) - Consolidated data for 2024 from South African PropTech company Launchbase shows sales on the platform surpassing R4,8 billion in value. This is a seminal moment not only for the company but also for the country with world-leading, homegrown technology reshaping the South African property development landscape. Sales data from Launchbase reveals remarkable achievements in new
- [South African consumers shift to value as economic pressures persist](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-african-consumers-shift-to-value-as-economic-pressures-persist/) - NIQ South Africa has released its latest State of the Retail Nation analysis for the last quarter and full year calendar year of 2024, showing moderate increases in retail sales despite a strong festive season finish. South African consumers spent nearly R637 billion on fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) through traditional and modern trade channels during the year.
- [Stay agile, stay ahead with cloud-based payroll and HR](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/stay-agile-stay-ahead-with-cloud-based-payroll-and-hr/) - Cloud services are rapidly becoming a must-have for businesses of all sizes, playing a central role in digital transformation. This shift has had a particularly profound impact on payroll and HR operations. As CRS Technologies General Manager Ian McAlister points out, “Moving to the cloud isn’t just about keeping up with the latest technology –
- [Higher education institutions must spearhead transformative constitutionalism](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/higher-education-institutions-must-spearhead-transformative-constitutionalism/) - Promoting a culture of social responsibility prepares graduates to be advocates for justice Transformative constitutionalism represents a profound shift in understanding constitutional law, particularly in contexts where historical injustices and systemic inequalities persist. This legal framework is not merely concerned with interpreting and applying existing laws but emphasises the transformative potential of the Constitution to
- [Unlocking Solar Energy for South Africa’s Industrial Future](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/unlocking-solar-energy-for-south-africas-industrial-future/) - By John Taylor As South Africa’s renewable energy landscape continues to evolve, many industrial players are considering their options for transitioning to sustainable power sources, primarily solar. Although nearly 300 days without loadshedding may have reduced perceptions of solar as being critical to securing consistent power, decarbonising – in order to avoid looming carbon border
- [Cyber insurance: the average amount of compensation claimed by organisations using MDR services is 97.5% lower than that of organisations relying on endpoint solutions only, according to a Sophos study](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/cyber-insurance-the-average-amount-of-compensation-claimed-by-organisations-using-mdr-services-is-97-5-lower-than-that-of-organisations-relying-on-endpoint-solutions-only-according-to-a-sophos-study/) - The average claim following a significant cyberattack is just $75,000 for MDR users, compared with $3 million for endpoint-only users. Sophos, a leading global provider of innovative security solutions designed to neutralise cyberattacks, has unveiled the results of a new independent study to quantify the financial impact of various cyber security controls on cyber insurance
- [Unlocking funding as a foreign national](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/unlocking-funding-as-a-foreign-national/) - According to the most recent numbers available, approximately 2.4 million foreign-born individuals live in South Africa, contributing to the South African economy through work and entrepreneurship. However, many face financial challenges, especially when trying to secure loans for business, vehicle or property purchases, living expenses, or investments. These financial barriers limit their full economic participation.
- [The Future of Invoice Processing: AI-Enhanced AP Automation](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-future-of-invoice-processing-ai-enhanced-ap-automation/) - In today’s fast-paced business environment, efficiency and accuracy in financial operations are essential for organisations. DAC Systems, a leader in integrated business solutions, finds that the advanced AI-driven Accounts Payable (AP) Automation feature of Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance redefines invoice management. AP Automation streamlines workflows, enhances data accuracy, and drives significant improvements in business efficiency.
- [South Africa Is Undermining Its Own Growth If It Doesn’t Consider the Meaningful Impact of Private Institutions in Solving Capacity Constraints in Higher Education](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-africa-is-undermining-its-own-growth-if-it-doesnt-consider-the-meaningful-impact-of-private-institutions-in-solving-capacity-constraints-in-higher-education/) - The oversubscribed demand for public universities reflects a far more profound systemic issue. Bridging this gap requires viewing private higher education institutions not just as alternatives but necessary partners in building a stronger educational ecosystem that moves our country forward, writes Siegie Brownlee, CEO at Eduvos. South Africa finds itself at a critical juncture in
- [Gamification is the future of business engagement   ](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/gamification-is-the-future-of-business-engagement/) - Thabo Tsolo, CEO and Game Designer at SpaceSalad Studios Given the competitive nature of today’s business landscape, decision-makers are continuously looking for more innovative ways of keeping customers engaged, enhance employee productivity, and drive revenue. This is where gamification comes in. By applying game-like elements such as rewards, challenges, and leaderboards to non-gaming contexts, the
- [Global Risks Report 2025: Conflict, Environment and Disinformation Top Threats](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/global-risks-report-2025-conflict-environment-and-disinformation-top-threats/) - The 20th edition of the World Economic Forum’s Global Risks Report, released today, reveals an increasingly fractured global landscape, where escalating geopolitical, environmental, societal and technological challenges threaten stability and progress. While economic risks have less immediate prominence in this year’s survey results, they remain a concern, interconnected with societal and geopolitical tensions. State-based armed conflict
- [#CuratingtheFuture: Finding Cybersecurity's Place in the World](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/curatingthefuture-finding-cybersecuritys-place-in-the-world/) - We’ve become accustomed to passwords, fingerprint readers, and antivirus software. We use one-time pins to authenticate transactions and activate VPN software to stay safe on public networks. We are well aware of threats like identity theft, ransomware, and phishing emails fuelling a cybercrime scourge that has cost the world just shy of $10 trillion in 2024.
- [Supreme Court ruling confirms that pre & post-commencement financiers now equal in business rescue](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/supreme-court-ruling-confirms-that-pre-post-commencement-financiers-now-equal-in-business-rescue/) - By Innocentia Moele, Senior Associate, Business Restructuring & Insolvency and Charlene Ferns, Associate, Dispute Resolution at CMS South Africa. Business rescue, introduced through the Companies Act 71 of 2008 and implemented on 1 May 2011, has become a critical mechanism for struggling businesses in South Africa. As an alternative to liquidation, it provides financially distressed
- [Treatment adherence – one of the most challenging issues in global health](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/treatment-adherence-one-of-the-most-challenging-issues-in-global-health/) - The first World Adherence Day, launching on 27 March 2025, is a call to action for healthcare professionals and patients to adhere to treatment plans, one of the most challenging issues in global health. This year’s campaign, #DontMissaMoment, tackles widespread non-adherence, which leads to worsening health outcomes, unnecessary hospitalisations, and rising healthcare costs. The World
- [Microsoft commits to skilling one million people for digital skills through Artificial Intelligence skilling initiative in South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/microsoft-commits-to-skilling-one-million-people-for-digital-skills-through-artificial-intelligence-skilling-initiative-in-south-africa/) - With its youthful population, rich diversity, and rapidly growing tech ecosystems, South Africa and Africa are uniquely positioned to innovate and lead in AI-driven solutions with the right skills and access to digital technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI). To meet this opportunity, Microsoft South Africa today announced the launch of Microsoft’s AI skilling initiative for South
- [Aions expands into seed fund management, focusing on growth in underserved markets](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/aions-expands-into-seed-fund-management-focusing-on-growth-in-underserved-markets/) - Aions Creative Technology has pivoted to become a dedicated seed fund manager under Aions Ventures to strengthen its position as a leading force in early-stage investment with a strategic focus on expanding its impact across Africa. By identifying, funding, and accelerating high-potential startups, Aions Ventures ensures sustainable economic growth and job creation in underserved markets.
- [Inclusive Health Research Awards by Nature Awards: Building global health equity together](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/inclusive-health-research-awards-by-nature-awards-building-global-health-equity-together/) - The 2024 Inclusive Health Research Awards held in Africa for the first time, recognises health research into sexual minorities, long COVID and scientists with disabilities. The Inclusive Health Research Awards (IHRA) hosted by Nature Awards in partnership with Takeda today announced the winners for 2024. For the first time, the conference and awards ceremony were
- [CFI Financial Appoints Maddy Mutati as Country Marketing Manager for South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/cfi-financial-appoints-maddy-mutati-as-country-marketing-manager-for-south-africa/) - CFI Financial Group, a globally recognised leader in online trading services, has announced the appointment of Maddy Mutati as Country Marketing Manager in South Africa. Mutati joins the team with a wealth of experience in marketing, strategy, and digital communications, bringing over 13 years of expertise from both emerging and developed markets. Her appointment marks
- [Inspiring Innovation: Darlene Menzies and the Future of Female Entrepreneurship](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/inspiring-innovation-darlene-menzies-and-the-future-of-female-entrepreneurship/) - According to the Mastercard Index of Women Entrepreneurs (MIWE) of South Africa, there are currently more unemployed women than unemployed men in country. That said, women’s entrepreneurial activity has increased in the past few years which may offer women an avenue to overcome unemployment and other barriers they face – this is something that Darlene Menzies is
- [Shaping the future through product innovation](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/shaping-the-future-through-product-innovation/) - By Suat Ozsoy With its forward-thinking vision, South Africa is one of the world’s most dynamic markets for technology innovation, offering industry players exceptional growth opportunities. In this highly competitive landscape, companies must continuously come up with bold solutions to evolve their offerings if they want to maintain market leadership. Innovation isn’t just about adding
- [Leadership in Complex Markets: Tactics for Steering Businesses Through Periods of Economic and Geopolitical Instability](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/leadership-in-complex-markets-tactics-for-steering-businesses-through-periods-of-economic-and-geopolitical-instability/) - by Adrian Moors Throughout my career I’ve had the privilege and opportunity to work with businesses across the world. Often this has meant operating in places facing economic fluctuations, geopolitical shifts, and local tensions that posed significant personal and professional challenges. While trying, these challenges have provided opportunities for me to grow my business leadership
- [New Report: Private Equity Continues to Lead Private Markets Amid Growing Interest from Private Wealth](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/new-report-private-equity-continues-to-lead-private-markets-amid-growing-interest-from-private-wealth/) - A new report from Barclays Private Bank has revealed that private equity continues to lead private markets amid growing interest from private wealth investors. The inaugural report, Forging New Paths: How private investors are capitalising on the evolution of private markets, sheds light on the resilience and growth potential of private equity (PE), and venture capital (VC),
- [Trump's Aid Cuts Could Spark Education Reform](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/trumps-aid-cuts-could-spark-education-reform/) - The U.S. has consistently spent about $0.5 billion annually on education in Africa. However, President Donald Trump’s executive order to freeze funding to South Africa poses challenges for the sector. Education Analyst and CEO of IDEA, Dr Corrin Varady, argues that whilst the future is unsure in the aid sector, both in terms of USAID and US funding
- [The Evolving World of AI and HR](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-evolving-world-of-ai-and-hr/) - Insights from Dr Chris Blair “Artificial Intelligence (AI) has evolved from a niche innovation to an essential technology driving transformation across industries. In Human Resources (HR), AI’s impact is profound, with the technology reshaping recruitment, boosting productivity, optimising costs, and enhancing employee engagement. This article provides a detailed look into how AI is transforming HR
- [Data privacy, AI threats and supply chains—the South African SMB cybersecurity landscape](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/data-privacy-ai-threats-and-supply-chains-the-south-african-smb-cybersecurity-landscape/) - South Africa’s small and medium businesses (SMBs) will continue to grapple with cybersecurity challenges throughout 2025. Tougher enforcement of data privacy laws and the rise of new artificial intelligence (AI) related threats are among the issues that will dominate their technology agenda for the year ahead. That is according to Philip Meyer, VP Product Engineering
- [How To Host More Effective Remote Meetings with Microsoft Teams](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-to-host-more-effective-remote-meetings-with-microsoft-teams/) - By Dillon Gray, COO at IPT In the age of remote work, the ability to host effective virtual meetings is more critical than ever. Microsoft Teams has emerged as a leading platform for businesses looking to enhance their remote collaboration efforts. However, many professionals still only scratch the surface of what Teams can offer. By
- [Beyond the mine: how regional processing can revitalise South Africa's mining economy](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/beyond-the-mine-how-regional-processing-can-revitalise-south-africas-mining-economy/) - Tycho Möncks and Niel Naude, Boston Consulting Group The projected shortage of critical minerals over the next decade creates an opportunity for large and small mining companies, governments and offtakers to form regional mineral processing hubs. With the appropriate policies, transport networks and partnerships in place, South Africa could attract investments and jobs and turn
- [Creators aren’t just influencers; they’re entrepreneurs](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/creators-arent-just-influencers-theyre-entrepreneurs/) - It’s time we take them seriously. “That’s not a real job.” A father tells his daughter as she shares her dream of becoming a full-time content creator. Across the city, a teacher shakes her head when a student mentions wanting to build a career on YouTube. To them, “real jobs” come with desks, salaries, and
- [The Founder’s Trap: not a dead-end but a maze you can navigate](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-founders-trap-not-a-dead-end-but-a-maze-you-can-navigate/) - Author: Raindren Moodley, Ariston Global As accountants and advisors to growth businesses across South Africa, we’ve seen it time and time again: the Founder’s Trap. It’s a scenario where a business, driven by the energy, vision, and relentless hard work of its founder, hits a wall. Instead of thriving, it starts to stagnate, trapped by
- [Aions Creative Technology expands its portfolio with Milli and Franc Investment](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/aions-creative-technology-expands-its-portfolio-with-milli-and-franc-investment/) - Venture builder Aions Creative Technology announced the addition of two innovative startups, Milli and Franc, to its investment portfolio, bringing the total number of investees to 11. This expansion underscores its commitment to fostering entrepreneurship that drives job creation and economic growth in South Africa. Driving financial inclusion with Franc Franc is a digital wealth
- [How sports can bridge the financial literacy gap among the youth](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-sports-can-bridge-the-financial-literacy-gap-among-the-youth/) - By Tobie Van Heerden, CEO at 10X InvestmentsIn an era where financial literacy is becoming increasingly critical for navigating life’s challenges, there remains a concerning gap in young people’s understanding of money management, budgeting, and long-term financial planning. In fact, more than 50% of South Africa’s youth lack the financial literacy needed to build a
- [Make multi-factor authentication your personal cybersafety new year’s resolution](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/make-multi-factor-authentication-your-personal-cybersafety-new-years-resolution/) - With SA’s Information Regulator on record as saying the country suffered at least 150 data breaches a month in 2024, South Africans must make Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) the non-negotiable centrepiece of their personal cybersecurity new year’s resolutions. Data breaches were up threefold in 2024 compared to 2023, notes Roger Britz, Customer Experience Catalyst at PerfectWorx
- [New NTT DATA Report Exposes the AI Responsibility Crisis: 81% of Business Leaders Call for Clearer AI Leadership to Avoid Risk and Support Innovation](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/new-ntt-data-report-exposes-the-ai-responsibility-crisis-81-of-business-leaders-call-for-clearer-ai-leadership-to-avoid-risk-and-support-innovation/) - AI’s Breakneck Growth is Outpacing Governance—Executives Struggle to Balance Innovation with Accountability and Ethics, Raising Red Flags for the Future of AI Adoption New research from NTT DATA Inc., a global digital business and IT services leader, reveals that businesses are racing to adopt AI, yet a responsibility gap threatens to undermine progress. More than 80%
- [Local tech company delivers mobile app solution to help SA navigate new energy tariffs & cut electricity costs with Sensor.Connect](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/local-tech-company-delivers-mobile-app-solution-to-help-sa-navigate-new-energy-tariffs-cut-electricity-costs-with-sensor-connect/) - Sensor Networks, a local technology company based in Cape Town, announces the development and release of Sensor.Energy, an innovative online platform that was designed to help South African households manage rising electricity costs following a number of changes to Eskom’s energy tariff structures. With electricity prices expected to increase by up to 36% in 2025,
- [AI job fears overstated](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ai-job-fears-overstated/) - AI remains a top priority for business leaders worldwide in 2025, with a strong focus on reaping tangible results from their AI initiatives. This year, one in three companies globally is planning to allocate over $25 million to AI. For the second year, Boston Consulting Group (BCG)’s AI Radar global survey has captured the mood of
- [Rooibos farming paves way for biodiversity conservation](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/rooibos-farming-paves-way-for-biodiversity-conservation/) - South Africa is experiencing significant biodiversity loss, primarily due to habitat degradation. Between 1990 and 2018, the country lost approximately 0.12% of its natural vegetation annually, with the rate doubling to 0.24% per year between 2014 and 2018. This accelerating habitat loss poses a serious threat to the nation’s rich biodiversity. In response to these
- [ADvTECH launches visionary integrated teacher & lecturer training centre](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/advtech-launches-visionary-integrated-teacher-lecturer-training-centre/) - Africa’s leading private education group, JSE-listed ADvTECH, has launched South Africa’s first dedicated Centre of Teaching and Learning Excellence, focused on driving excellence across all educational phases in the country. The centre will be the first of its kind, centralising continuous professional development training across both schools and tertiary phases. Named SIRIUS (after the brightest
- [The power of technology and safety in loyalty rewards programmes](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-power-of-technology-and-safety-in-loyalty-rewards-programmes/) - Kinola Pather, CEO of Randgo With 76% of South Africans using a loyalty programme, brands are embracing this opportunity to drive customer engagement and increase business growth. Of course, as technology continues to evolve, loyalty programmes have grown in sophistication. Some of the most successful ones in the world provide real-time rewards and personalised experiences. With the
- [Right to disconnect : Why it's crucial for companies to have the expectation conversation  ](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/right-to-disconnect-why-it-is-crucial-for-companies-to-have-the-expectation-conversation/) - With boundaries between work and personal life growing blurrier than ever, there is a growing movement across the globe to formalise and even commit to policy, the right of employees to disconnect completely during personal downtime. While that is one response to the challenge of employees feeling pressurised to be available at all times –
- [The biggest mistakes employees make when asking for a salary increase](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-biggest-mistakes-employees-make-when-asking-for-a-salary-increase/) - Negotiating a salary increase is a crucial career skill, yet many employees make mistakes that weaken their chances of success. In South Africa, where structured HR policies typically govern pay progression, employees must approach salary discussions strategically. Industry dynamics also play a role in how salary negotiations unfold, requiring tailored approaches. Common Mistakes and Their
- [AI making us lazy?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ai-making-us-lazy/) - Lethabo Lubisi, Corporate Affairs Director at EQPlus Every time labour-saving technologies are introduced questions are raised about whether these negatively impact human motivation and productivity. The integration of AI into our daily work tasks has seen many people raise the question of whether this technology is making us lazy. While some argue that AI enhances
- [2024’s global financial trends and their impact on South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/2024s-global-financial-trends-and-their-impact-on-south-africa/) - Last year can be classified as a period of contradictory events, significant economic changes, and major political shifts. On a positive note, it was the year when global central banks finally managed to tackle inflation, partly induced by the negative and far-reaching effects of the COVID pandemic and partly by the more recent geopolitical events.
- [Prof. Eldrid Jordaan calls for year-round citizen engagement in Democracy](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/prof-eldrid-jordaan-calls-for-year-round-citizen-engagement-in-democracy/) - As President Cyril Ramaphosa prepares to deliver the 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA), Prof. Eldrid Jordaan, CEO of Suppple, urges South Africans to move beyond passive political engagement and take an active role in governance. In his latest thought leadership piece, Beyond the Ballot Boxes: Democracy does not just die in the dark, it
- [Saving money on international money transfers in 2025 is about more than just the exchange rate](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/saving-money-on-international-money-transfers-in-2025-is-about-more-than-just-the-exchange-rate/) - With Donald Trump’s election and, more recently, strong employment numbers coming out of the US, many South Africans will have been keeping a nervous eye on the Rand’s performance against major currencies. That nervousness isn’t unfounded either. The gains the local currency enjoyed against the dollar through the second half of 2024 have been wiped
- [Unlocking the Potential of Women-Centric Products and Services](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/unlocking-the-potential-of-women-centric-products-and-services/) - Global survey of almost 15,000 respondents across 12 countries, with 8% from SA, highlights significant dissatisfaction among women with consumer goods, financial services, and healthcare offerings available to them Despite women managing nearly $32 trillion in global spending and, according to Nielsen, being set to control 75% of discretionary spending worldwide within five years, companies
- [Royal AM FC Tax Controversy: Govchain shares 10-steps to help young entrepreneurs stay on the right side of the law](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/royal-am-fc-tax-controversy-govchain-shares-10-steps-to-help-young-entrepreneurs-stay-on-the-right-side-of-the-law/) - The story of how the owner of Pietermaritzburg-based football club, Royal AM, has come under the fire by SARS for alleged tax evasion amounting up to R40 million, is a key lesson for any business owner in South Africa. Besides facing the shame of owing the State so much money, Shauwn Makhize has also had
- [The role loyalty and rewards programmes can play in supporting mental health](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-role-loyalty-and-rewards-programmes-can-play-in-supporting-mental-health/) - In today’s fast-paced world, mental health has become a significant concern for both consumers and employees. Stress from financial pressures, work demands, and life’s daily challenges also have a negative impact on one’s mental well-being. One often overlooked tool that can make a difference in stretching wallets are rewards and loyalty programs, when designed with
- [OM Bank CEO gets the thumbs up from the Reserve Bank](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/om-bank-ceo-gets-the-thumbs-up-from-the-reserve-bank/) - OM Bank has received approval from the South African Reserve Bank’s Prudential Authority to appoint Clarence Nethengwe as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the country’s newest bank, effective immediately. OM Bank will launch with a select group of clients in early 2025, ahead of a broader public rollout later in the year. The bank will
- [Embracing South Africa’s trading revolution](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/embracing-south-africas-trading-revolution/) - Zihaad Israfil, CEO of CFI South Africa “South Africa’s trading landscape is undergoing a remarkable transformation, driven by technological advancements, increased market accessibility, and growing interest in alternative investments. At CFI Financial, we focus on empowering local traders with cutting-edge tools, education, and a client-centric approach to navigate and thrive in this evolving environment. “With nearly
- [Why your CFO should pay for and play more golf](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-your-cfo-should-pay-for-and-play-more-golf/) - Author: Rowan De Klerk In April 2005, economist Steven Levitt and New York Times journalist Stephen J. Dubner debuted “Freakonomics” which has become the staple diet for those who want to understand what makes things tick. To this day, they consistently unpack fascinating topics like “Is Marriage Worth it?” and “Is it good or bad to
- [Where can South African CEOs find growth amid geopolitical, trade, technology, and workforce changes?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/where-can-south-african-ceos-find-growth-amid-geopolitical-trade-technology-and-workforce-changes-2/) - By Paul Calvey, Oliver Wyman Partner and Head of South Africa Solving pressing business problems while laying the foundation for long-term sustainability has always been the hallmark of successful CEOs and boards. But rising geopolitical tensions, rapid advances in technology, and evolving consumer demands add more complexity for today’s business leaders. CEOs face heady challenges,
- [Review your estate plan to ensure compliance with changing laws](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/review-your-estate-plan-to-ensure-compliance-with-changing-laws/) - In this era of unprecedented wealth accumulation, long-term, strategic estate planning has become essential for high-net-worth (HNW) families aiming to secure intergenerational wealth transfer effectively and sustainably. This is the view of Godwin Magosha, a Fiduciary Specialist at Private Clients by Old Mutual Wealth, who explains that “an estate or wealth transfer plan helps HNW
- ['Playtime is over’ for GenAI - NTT DATA Gen AI Report](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/playtime-is-over-for-genai/) - ‘Playtime is over’ for GenAI: NTT DATA research shows organizations shifting from experiments to investments that drive performance Report surveyed over 2,300 IT and business leaders in 12 industries and 34 countries 97% of CEOs anticipate a material impact from this technology 99% of organizations are planning further GenAI investments 90% said legacy infrastructure hinders
- [Beyond the Headlines: How Personalized News Feeds Shape Our Worldview](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/beyond-the-headlines-how-personalized-news-feeds-shape-our-worldview/) - In today’s digital age, personalized news feeds have become a defining feature of how we consume information. From social media platforms to AI-driven news aggregators, algorithms curate content tailored to our preferences, ensuring we see stories that align with our interests. While this approach offers convenience and engagement, it also raises critical questions about its
- [The Power is Back with the People: The Rise of Creator-Led Commerce](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-power-is-back-with-the-people-the-rise-of-creator-led-commerce/) - How is it possible that a YouTuber’s staged boxing match can draw almost as many viewers as the Super Bowl? Jake Paul and Mike Tyson recently raked in a combined $60 million from a Netflix event that attracted 120 million viewers—so many, in fact, that the streaming platform struggled to handle the overwhelming demand. This
- [Improving News Production with AI: Enhancing Daily Tasks and Processes](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/improving-news-production-with-ai-enhancing-daily-tasks-and-processes/) - As media organizations strive to keep pace with the rapidly changing news cycle, AI technology offers innovative solutions to enhance daily tasks and streamline processes. This article explores how AI is improving news production. Streamlining Content Creation One of the most significant benefits of AI in news production is its ability to streamline content creation.
- [The Transformation of HR Practices in the Post-Pandemic Era: Navigating the New Normal in the Workplace](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-transformation-of-hr-practices-in-the-post-pandemic-era-navigating-the-new-normal-in-the-workplace/) - Insights given by Dr Chris Blair. “The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted the world of work, reshaping not only where and how work gets done, but also redefining the role of human resources (HR) in supporting and driving organisational success. As the global workforce has gradually transitioned into a post-pandemic era, several emerging HR trends
- [Small business? Big cybersecurity risk](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/small-business-big-cybersecurity-risk/) - Globally, cyberattacks are on the rise and more small businesses are being targeted. According to the World Economic Forum, cybercriminals often target smaller companies that serve larger clients. SMMEs that serve critical infrastructure providers and global corporations are particularly at risk, as are those with systems that integrate into regulated industries like insurance, healthcare, banking, and
- [Better Business Security During The Holidays](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/better-business-security-during-the-holidays/) - Cybercriminals can strike at any time. When you take some time off during December and January, how do you ensure your business remains cyber-safe? During major holiday periods, ransomware attacks jump a whopping 30%. Holidays also experience increased online scams, exploiting themes such as gift sales, package deliveries, and charity drives. Seeing that people generally open 70%
- [The power of personalised marketing in travel](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-power-of-personalised-marketing-in-travel/) - Knowing where travellers come from is key to meeting their wants and needs By Rachel Irvine, CEO, Irvine Partners We live in an age of hyper-personalisation. Every ad you see online, every show you watch, and every book you read is recommended to you based on your tastes and preferences (however badly some companies may
- [Embracing mechanisation in South Africa’s agriculture sector to meet growing demands](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/embracing-mechanisation-in-south-africas-agriculture-sector-to-meet-growing-demands/) - Wayne Morris, Head of Alliances at WesBank South Africa’s agricultural sector stands at a pivotal moment. With production costs rising at an alarming 12.4% year-on-year, as reported by Statistics South Africa, farmers are grappling with the need to balance sustainability, profitability, and food security. At the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29), global leaders reinforced the
- [Why AI Falls Short in Job Profiling: The Essential Role of Human Expertise](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-ai-falls-short-in-job-profiling-the-essential-role-of-human-expertise/) - Insights by Chimone Zaayman “AI is all the rage in HR these days, and for good reason. With the help of AI, businesses are streamlining and transforming HR processes from recruitment all the way through to performance reviews, and even workforce planning. But when it comes to job profiling, we’ve got to pump the brakes
- [Illegal Mining in South Africa – The Need for Collaboration](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/illegal-mining-in-south-africa-the-need-for-collaboration/) - South Africa, a nation rich in mineral resources, grapples with a clandestine industry thriving beneath the surface – illegal mining. This subterranean realm, often referred to as “zama zama,” represents a complex web of socio-economic challenges, criminal activity, and environmental degradation. In this article, we delve into the multifaceted issues surrounding illegal mining in South
- [Exploring the Future of Payment Integration - Trends to Watch in 2025](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/exploring-the-future-of-payment-integration-trends-to-watch-in-2025/) - As we enter 2025, Freddie Prinsloo, Chief Innovation Officer at Amplifin, offers insights on what trends to look out for in the payments sector. “In recent years, payment solutions have evolved radically locally and internationally. With new technologies and systems emerging that are poised to redefine how businesses and consumers interact financially, it is an opportune
- [9 Ways to Create a No-Burnout Workplace and Still Be Productive](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/9-ways-to-create-a-no-burnout-workplace-and-still-be-productive/) - In today’s world, where work is characterised by phrases like, “always on”, “hustle culture”, and “time is money”, success has become almost synonymous with burnout. But Cara-Lisa Sham, industrial psychologist and CEO of digital workplace wellbeing solution, soSerene, says there is another way. Recognised as an occupational phenomenon by the World Health Organization in 2019,
- [Small Business -  Big Opportunities](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/small-business-big-opportunities-for-smbs/) - Despite rising costs and global challenges, South African SMBs remain optimistic about the future as they ramp up digital investments Business confidence among South African SMBs remains strong at 78%, but opportunities abound to boost productivity and accelerate digital transformation. AI adoption gains traction, with two-thirds of South African SMBs investing in AI over the
- [South Africa's Education System: A Call for Equity and Transformation](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-africas-education-system-a-call-for-equity-and-transformation/) - By Professor Heloise Sathorar, Executive Dean, Faculty of Education, Nelson Mandela University The release of the results of the Class of 2024 provides us with an opportune moment to celebrate the achievements of our learners while also reflecting on the disparities that continue to plague our education system. Despite three decades of democracy, unequal resource
- [The looming spectre of water shortages calls for companies to invest in water mitigation strategies](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-looming-spectre-of-water-shortages-calls-for-companies-to-invest-in-water-mitigation-strategies/) - Mark Boshoff, Head of Climate Resilience and Sustainability Strategy at Nedbank Commercial Banking Although it is a known fact that South Africa is a water-scarce country, we have taken water for granted for far too long. As the 30th driest country in the world, the scarcity of this natural resource will have a significant impact
- [Cloud best practices for 2025](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/cloud-best-practices-for-2025/) - Ralph Berndt, Sales and Marketing Director at inq. SA The global cloud computing market is projected to reach the $864 billion mark by next year and continue growing at 12.8% annually. This reflects how important the cloud has become to any organisation’s strategy. To stay competitive and make the most from their cloud investment, there are several
- [Things are looking up for construction in 2025](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/things-are-looking-up-for-construction-in-2025/) - While economies globally remain volatile – including in South Africa – there are reasons for those in the construction industry to feel optimistic says Morag Evans, CEO, Databuild. This industry finds itself in a unique position says Evans, who points to the increase in relevance of trends including artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, sustainable practices,
- [Where can South African CEOs find growth amid geopolitical, trade, technology, and workforce changes?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/where-can-south-african-ceos-find-growth-amid-geopolitical-trade-technology-and-workforce-changes/) - By Paul Calvey, Oliver Wyman Partner and Head of South Africa Solving pressing business problems while laying the foundation for long-term sustainability has always been the hallmark of successful CEOs and boards. But rising geopolitical tensions, rapid advances in technology, and evolving consumer demands add more complexity for today’s business leaders. CEOs face heady challenges,
- [Tech Reflections: Leaders Open Up About the Good, Bad, and Ugly of 2024](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/tech-reflections-leaders-open-up-about-the-good-bad-and-ugly-of-2024/) - By Alan Turnley-Jones, CEO NTT DATA in Middle East and Africa 2024 has been a transformative year for the tech industry, and as CEO of NTT DATA in the Middle East and Africa, I’ve witnessed a remarkable convergence of advancements and challenges set to shape our path forward. From the power of generative AI to
- [Rethinking retirement: Why getting aggressive with your pension portfolio pays off](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/rethinking-retirement-why-getting-aggressive-with-your-pension-portfolio-pays-off/) - As retirement approaches, many people reduce their risk profile by shifting their pension investments to more conservative assets like bonds and money market. However, this traditional strategy, though designed to protect against market volatility, can actually diminish the future growth potential of retirement savings. Especially taking into account that most of the growth in your
- [Strategic leadership on demand: introducing the C-Suite to the access economy](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/strategic-leadership-on-demand-introducing-the-c-suite-to-the-access-economy/) - Author: Rowan De Klerk, CEO of The CFO Centre South Africa “What can somebody do in two days a week that a full-time resource cannot?” This question challenges conventional thinking about leadership and talent. For Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) and senior executives, the burden of compliance, operational oversight and strategic planning has never been greater.
- [Economic threats continue to overshadow climate and cyber risks](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/economic-threats-continue-to-overshadow-climate-and-cyber-risks/) - Extreme weather enters G20 top five risks following year marked by record temperatures, severe flooding, and wildfires Despite some signs of improvement in global economic conditions, business leaders across the majority of G20 countries remain deeply concerned about the looming threats of recessions, labor shortages, and rising inflation. This is according to the Executive Opinion Survey, conducted
- [The path to cloud best practice in 2025](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-path-to-cloud-best-practice-in-2025/) - Muggie van Staden, MD and CEO of Obsidian Systems There is little arguing about the fact that cloud technology has reshaped the business landscape in South Africa. Cloud adoption, migration, and modernisation have become commonplace as organisations across industry sectors look to optimise their environments to deliver sustainable growth. As thoughts turn to 2025,
- [Does ChatGPT result in us losing elements of our own humanity?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/does-chatgpt-result-in-us-losing-elements-of-our-own-humanity/) - By Howard Feldman I am in the middle of an argument with ChatGPT that is no closer to being resolved today than it was when it began a week ago. To be fair, I instigated it when I asked why, if artificial intelligence (AI) is modeled on human interactions, that it didn’t insist that we
- [Digital credit systems tackle pain points of paper-based systems](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/digital-credit-systems-tackle-pain-points-of-paper-based-systems/) - “The future of credit applications is digital,” urges Frank Knight, CEO of credit management specialists Debtsource. For any company offering its clients credit facilities, traditional paper-based methods of managing credit applications are increasingly inefficient and prone to risk as businesses struggle to keep up with both operational challenges and evolving legal requirements. “Paper-based credit
- [Marsh McLennan and Zurich urge public-private action to bridge cyber protection gap and boost resilience](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/marsh-mclennan-and-zurich-urge-public-private-action-to-bridge-cyber-protection-gap-and-boost-resilience/) - Small and medium-sized businesses are often left uninsured or underinsured when it comes to a catastrophic cyber event. Mass cloud outages, such as the recent global IT outage that disrupted systems across multiple industries, are an example of a cyber incident that is currently considered insurable up to a certain level of financial loss.
- [Enhancing compliance and IT efficiency for the South African insurance sector](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/enhancing-compliance-and-it-efficiency-for-the-south-african-insurance-sector/) - The South African insurance sector operates in a complex regulatory environment, where adapting to evolving financial regulations is critical. As the demands on insurers grow, so does the need for comprehensive IT systems that support compliance while enabling business efficiency. IPT, a leading managed IT services and cybersecurity provider, provides several solutions tailored specifically for
- [Safeguarding Your Business: Cybersecurity Strategies for South African SMEs](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/safeguarding-your-business-cybersecurity-strategies-for-south-african-smes/) - As South African SMEs navigate digital transformation, they encounter a host of cybersecurity threats. Limited resources, lack of awareness, evolving cyber tactics, and regulatory demands pose significant challenges. This article a condensed guide to fortify your SME against cyber risks. SMEs should view cybersecurity as a strategic investment. By implementing these measures, businesses can mitigate risks, protect sensitive data, and thrive in the digital era.
- [Why Your Will Is The Most Important Document Your Business May Be Missing](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-your-will-is-the-most-important-document-your-business-may-be-missing/) - As a business owner, have you thought about what happens to your business and staff if you pass away? A financial planner explains why it’s something you shouldn’t put off. Thinking about what happens in the event of your passing may feel like a morbid thought, but if you own a business, it’s an important
- [Historic First: Africa hosts Inclusive Health Research Awards, an important milestone in building global health equity](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/historic-first-africa-hosts-inclusive-health-research-awards-an-important-milestone-in-building-global-health-equity/) - Africa’s role in shaping global, inclusive health research is ever more important as the world looks to chart a new course By Akin Jimoh, Chief Editor at Nature Africa The Inclusive Health Research Awards (IHRA) hosted by Nature Awards coming to Africa, for the first time this October, at Stellenbosch University is a significant milestone for
- [JSE shake-up positive news for business growth in South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/jse-shake-up-positive-news-for-business-growth-in-south-africa/) - By Paul Calvey, Partner Financial Services, Head of South Africa, Oliver Wyman The recent JSE segmentation initiative is a positive step towards making the exchange more accessible to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). SMEs are critical to the economic growth of South Africa, thus fostering greater access to finance is key to enabling their growth.
- [Homechoice to expand from 37 to 60 showroom stores by end of 2025](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/homechoice-to-expand-from-37-to-60-showroom-stores-by-end-of-2025/) - With online shopping continuing to flourish in South Africa and transforming the retail landscape, it’s easy to assume that physical stores are becoming obsolete. However, a growing body of research indicates that brick-and-mortar stores still play a crucial role in driving sales and enhancing consumer experiences. This research is echoed by homechoice, who are aggressively expanding
- [Women empowerment in the corporate world](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/women-empowerment-in-the-corporate-world/) - Empowering women in the workplace goes beyond being a tick-box exercise and filling quotas or offering opportunities for promotion. Companies must think differently about this to provide their female employees with the support needed to control their own professional journeys. At its core, empowerment is about understanding the unique strengths that women bring to the
- [Lessons learned on the entrepreneurial journey](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/lessons-learned-on-the-entrepreneurial-journey/) - Mitchan Adams, Founder and CEO of Aions With November being National Entrepreneurship Month, it’s a good time to reflect on the journey of entrepreneurship—the messy, challenging, and often misunderstood early stages of building something from scratch. In the startup ecosystem at large, there’s been a growing realisation: there’s massive leakage in the system at an
- [Water Crisis Threatens Social Stability in Africa: Urgent Call for Strategic Planning](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/water-crisis-threatens-social-stability-in-africa-urgent-call-for-strategic-planning/) - Water crises to re-shape African governments and societies by 2050 The number of people displaced internally due to climate hazards could increase by more than 30% by 2050 Our current approach to water management is insufficient and will likely exacerbate the effects of climate mobility Water resilience and social resilience should be integrated strategic priorities
- [How can SA businesses maximise the benefits of a strong rand?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-can-sa-businesses-maximise-the-benefits-of-a-strong-rand/) - Over the past few months, the rand has strengthened considerably against major currencies. Driven by optimism around the government of national unity (GNU), bigger interest rate cuts by the Reserve Bank than the Federal Reserve, and a general positive swing in sentiment towards emerging markets, it’s seen particularly significant gains against the US dollar.
- [The shift from RMS to RM: What South Africa's businesses need to know about upcoming debit order changes](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-shift-from-rms-to-rm-what-south-africas-businesses-need-to-know-about-upcoming-debit-order-changes/) - Steven Maier, Chief Brand Officer at Amplifin As the South African payments landscape prepares for a significant shift, businesses reliant on DebiCheck debit orders, and specifically when authentication was not successfully obtained from Debtors, must brace themselves for the mandatory transition from the Registered Mandate Service (RMS) to the new Registered Mandate (RM) payment stream by the
- [The top payroll and HR trends driving success in 2025 and beyond](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-top-payroll-and-hr-trends-driving-success-in-2025-and-beyond/) - The payroll and HR landscape is evolving rapidly, driven by technological advancements and shifting employee expectations. As artificial intelligence (AI) redefines how companies manage payroll and HR, these processes are becoming smoother, more accurate and increasingly personalised. But what lies ahead? Desmond Struwig, CEO of CRS Technologies, shares his insights on the key trends shaping
- [Ways to teach your children to be money savvy at each milestone](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ways-to-teach-your-children-to-be-money-savvy-at-each-milestone/) - As schools reopen in South Africa, learners tend to miss one critical aspect of their education which is the basics of financial literacy. This goes beyond knowing how to open a bank account; financial literacy involves understanding budgeting, debt, saving and long-term financial planning. Stian de Witt, executive head of financial planning at advisory firm
- [Develop These 5 Skills to Boost Your Forex Trading Success](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/develop-these-5-skills-to-boost-your-forex-trading-success/) - Forex trading has become an increasingly popular source of supplementary income. For the estimated 100 000 South Africans who trade, forex presents an opportunity for financial security, additional income, and a diversified investment portfolio. Global online forex broker Octa has compiled a shortlist of five key skills that every trader should develop to improve their
- [The evolution of cybersecurity in the construction industry](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-evolution-of-cybersecurity-in-the-construction-industry/) - The increasing connectedness of the world means cyber threats have become a daily occurrence. No sector is safe as cybercriminals look to exploit any weakness to compromise infrastructure and systems, and steal data. Organisations in the construction industry, often seen as a traditional sector, must navigate securing their environments or risk significant financial and reputational
- [The latest view on the horizon of AI - 5 things to expect in 2025](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-latest-view-on-the-horizon-of-ai-5-things-to-expect-in-2025/) - Intentional or not, everyone is already using AI. Whether it’s to help prompt ideas and trigger thoughts or to simply navigate mundane day-to-day administrative tasks, AI has a utility for everyone. This natural adoption of AI over the last few years has opened new opportunities for companies and convenience for consumers. How do we feel
- [Navigating the road to Universal Health Coverage in South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/navigating-the-road-to-universal-health-coverage-in-south-africa/) - By Dr. Reno Morar, Director: Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Nelson Mandela University As Director of the newly established Medical School in the Faculty of Health Sciences at Nelson Mandela University, I am honoured to lead South Africa’s tenth and youngest medical school. Our medical students exude an infectious spirit of hope and enthusiasm
- [How to choose the right payroll services provider for your business](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-to-choose-the-right-payroll-services-provider-for-your-business/) - You’ve done your research, realised the benefits of hiring a payroll services provider and made the decision to go the outsourcing route. Now you’re looking for a partner who truly understands your needs – one you can trust with your payroll so you can focus on what matters most – growing your business. But with
- [The joy of a staycation](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-joy-of-a-staycation/) - In our fast-paced world, filled with constant travel and hectic schedules, we often overlook the hidden gems and unique experiences right in our own cities. The reality is, we don’t have to look or travel very far to get that change of scenery or break that we need. A staycation, a vacation spent in your
- [The Rise of 4C Predictions: Smarter Predictions for a Smarter World](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-rise-of-4c-predictions-smarter-predictions-for-a-smarter-world/) - Imagine a world where your most important decisions—whether it’s investing in stocks, predicting property trends, or making game-changing sports bets—are guided by cutting-edge AI insights. That world is here, and it’s powered by 4C Predictions, the revolutionary platform that democratizes predictive analytics and puts the power of genius AI in your hands. 2024 was a
- [Actively managed certificates are growing in popularity as a financial instrument](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/actively-managed-certificates-are-growing-in-popularity-as-a-financial-instrument/) - These flexible and cost-effective listed investment products offer exposure to the performance of an actively managed portfolio, with the added benefit of being able to be bought and sold during trading hours. It’s no wonder, then, that actively managed certificates (AMCs) have become so popular within the global financial industry. ‘The terms of the note
- [Actively managed certificates are growing in popularity as an impactful strategy for investment portfolios](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/actively-managed-certificates-are-growing-in-popularity-as-an-impactful-strategy-for-investment-portfolios/) - The world of finance is continually innovating – creating, adjusting and improving products to cater for the changing needs of investors. The AMC (actively managed certificate) is a case in point. An AMC is a non interest-paying instrument that pays the investor the performance of a basket of securities that is actively managed by an
- [Zoho Finance and Operations Suite Sees 43% Growth in South Africa with Key Update](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/zoho-finance-and-operations-suite-sees-43-growth-in-south-africa-with-key-update/) - Zoho, a global technology company, today announced that its finance and operations suite has achieved 43% growth in new customers in South Africa within three months of launching its local edition. The company also announced the addition of key product capabilities in its VAT-compliant accounting solution Zoho Books, inventory management solution Zoho Inventory, and practice
- [Why plug-and-play payroll and HR is NOT ideal for global businesses](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/why-plug-and-play-payroll-and-hr-is-not-ideal-for-global-businesses/) - As businesses expand internationally, managing payroll and HR for a global workforce becomes increasingly complex. Each country comes with its own payroll regulations, tax laws and HR requirements, meaning a solution that works for one region may not be suitable for another. The ability to customise is key to keeping global operations smooth, compliant and
- [Green Stays, Blue Planet: How Hotels Can Save the Industry](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/green-stays-blue-planet-how-hotels-can-save-the-industry/) - Tourism is at a crossroads: it can either lead the charge in climate action or become a casualty of its own environmental footprint. Because the industry is heavily reliant on natural beauty and cultural heritage, embracing sustainability is not just a trend – it’s a necessity for survival. If meaningful efforts to reduce emissions and
- [Databuild reflects on a year of challenges and growth in the local construction sector](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/databuild-reflects-on-a-year-of-challenges-and-growth-in-the-local-construction-sector/) - From tackling systemic issues to embracing innovation, the construction sector in South Africa has shown remarkable resilience and adaptability in the face of mounting pressures. This is according to Databuild CEO Morag Evans as she reflects on the trends, challenges, and opportunities that are shaping the industry. One of the most significant concerns is the continued disruptions
- [Investing in the youth today paves the way for a new generation of leaders](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/investing-in-the-youth-today-paves-the-way-for-a-new-generation-of-leaders/) - By Leanne Emery-Hunter, COO of Youth Employment Service (YES) Every morning, a symphony of success stories drives me to my desk – narratives of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of opportunity. Given the youth unemployment figures in South Africa, you might find that hard to believe, but I have the privilege of witnessing first-hand
- [If AI is set to transform businesses, then why are so many failing to succeed with it?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/if-ai-is-set-to-transform-businesses-then-why-are-so-many-failing-to-succeed-with-it/) - Generative AI has entered the spotlight as one of the most exciting technological developments. But two questions arise. Firstly, when companies, like AWS and Synthesis Software Technologies, have been using it for years then why is the excitement only brewing now? Secondly, why are so many businesses failing to implement it successfully? Generative AI has entered
- [5 key risks to consider in retirement planning](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/5-key-risks-to-consider-in-retirement-planning/) - Retirement should be a time of financial freedom, enjoyment and spending more time with family and close relatives, however, without proper financial planning, it can come with serious risks and consequences. Stian de Witt, head of financial planning at advisory firm, NMG Benefits shares five critical risks retirees face and why working with a Certified
- [South Africa's Online Grocery Sector: Trends, Challenges, and Yassir's Innovative Approach](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-africas-online-grocery-sector-trends-challenges-and-yassirs-innovative-approach/) - As South Africa undergoes a digital transformation, the online grocery delivery sector is experiencing revolutionary changes. The shift from in-person to online shopping is accelerating, particularly among middle-class to upper-class consumers, signalling a significant growth trajectory for the market. South Africa’s online grocery market is poised for significant growth, with the market value expected to
- [Transit hubs: the new gateway to luxury](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/transit-hubs-the-new-gateway-to-luxury/) - As the lines between business and leisure blur, the travel sector is adapting to meet the expectations of a new generation of travellers. The growing emphasis on convenience, luxury, and cultural immersion is transforming transit hubs into destinations in their own right. Globally, the demand for convenience is reshaping travel infrastructure. Leading airports in Asia,
- [‘Tis the season for #FinancialFitnessGoals](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/tis-the-season-for-financialfitnessgoals/) - Let’s face it: South Africans turning December into one long spending spree could be a national sport. Whether it’s throwing the biggest braai or grabbing that extra “just-because” gift, the festive season feels like an open invitation to splurge. But when January rolls around, the financial hangover hits harder than expected. But it doesn’t have
- [Six key benefits of HR outsourcing you can’t ignore](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/six-key-benefits-of-hr-outsourcing-you-cant-ignore/) - For many small to medium-sized businesses, maintaining a fully functional in-house HR department can be overwhelming and costly. Outsourcing HR services has become a strategic solution for these companies, enabling them to manage HR complexities without compromising their core functions. Nicol Myburgh, Head of HR Services at CRS Technologies, believes that outsourcing HR is not
- [Agence Française de Développement concludes negotiations for the R7.6bn (400 M€) public policy loan for SA’s Just Energy Transition](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/agence-francaise-de-developpement-concludes-negotiations-for-the-r7-6bn-400-me-public-policy-loan-for-sas-just-energy-transition/) - Marking its 30-year anniversary of collaboration with South Africa, Agence Française de Développement (AFD) has concluded negotiations for a R7.6 billion loan for the implementation of the country’s Just Energy Transition Plan (JETP). This innovative policy-based financing, the largest ever on AFD’s balance sheet, was developed in close collaboration with the JET Programme Management Unit
- [Monks acquires 25% stake in Hoorah](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/s4-capitals-operating-brand-monks-acquires-25-stake-in-hoorah-expanding-footprint-in-a-growing-african-continent/) - Full-service digital marketing agency Hoorah today announced that global advertising and marketing services company Monks has acquired a 25% stake in the business as part of its plans to expand its footprint into the African continent. Monks, previously known as Media.Monks, the operating brand of UK-listed S4 Capital is a global digital marketing agency that
- [A new, innovative solution designed to safeguard and potentially boost revenue streams enters the market](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/a-new-innovative-solution-designed-to-safeguard-and-potentially-boost-revenue-streams-enters-the-market/) - A new addition to the ASP market, ReveNet introduced their innovative new solution designed to safeguard and potentially boost revenue streams in an increasingly challenging landscape to MNOS during an exclusive event held in Cape Town, featuring an expert panel and thought-provoking industry discussion. This new, cutting-edge platform combines advanced analytics, unparalleled industry expertise and
- [South Africa’s two-pot retirement system: weeks later](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-africas-two-pot-retirement-system-weeks-later/) - The two-pot retirement system, designed to balance immediate financial needs with long-term retirement savings goals, has sparked unprecedented engagement among retirement fund members. Geoff Baars, Group Executive Director at advisory firm, NMG Benefits, notes, “The first month has probably seen a total of R10 billion in claims across the industry, which sets members back in
- [Demystifying Payment Orchestration](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/demystifying-payment-orchestration/) - By Tripti Pande, Payments Consultant at Synthesis In today’s fast-paced digital economy, the payments landscape is undergoing a dramatic transformation. Businesses are increasingly turning to innovative solutions to streamline their payment processes and enhance customer experiences. One of the most transformative strategies gaining traction is payment orchestration. This approach integrates various payment services into a unified
- [Direct marketing compliance a possibility with AI-driven solution](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/direct-marketing-compliance-a-possibility-with-ai-driven-solution/) - The increasing number of spam calls, complaints from consumers and mounting pressure from the Information Regulator to crack down on unsolicited or cold calling consumers, means that direct marketers need to find more compliant ways to reach their audiences.
- [SA-developed Smartphone Platform Enables Estate Residents to Buy Local](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/sa-developed-smartphone-platform-enables-estate-residents-to-buy-local/) - One in every three consumers worldwide wants to buy local, according to the recent “Generation Zillennial Report” and tech firm Glovent’s mobile platform enables merchants to reach South African estate residents with a preference for local goods. South Africa is blessed with a diverse private sector highly capable of satisfying increasing demand for products and
- [Is there a real desire to remove cash from circulation?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/is-there-a-real-desire-to-remove-cash-from-circulation/) - Leading banks in South Africa weigh in Majority of South Africans are still using cash. South African Reserve Bank’s recent report shows that cash is still the most prevalent payment method. On the 10th of October 2024, Synthesis, a leading software development company, invited Financial Institutions and FinTech’s to engage in an insightful discussion on the future of payments
- [For the youth by the youth](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/for-the-youth-by-the-youth/) - Hi, my name is Veronicca Ndhlovu. I am 17 and a Grade 11 student. I have a tight group of girls and we share all kinds of advice on life, love and our dreams. One of the girls is pregnant, she still comes to school, she didn’t use a condom or she didn’t have the contraceptive
- [Companies can guide employees through critical healthcare decisions: Here’s how](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/companies-can-guide-employees-through-critical-healthcare-decisions-heres-how/) - With just weeks left in 2024 for employees to assess and potentially change their medical scheme options for 2025, employers have a unique opportunity – and responsibility – to help their staff make well-informed decisions. Annual selection windows close at the end of the year and options typically cannot be upgraded mid-year. This creates an
- [Simple ways companies can support their employees’ mental health](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/simple-ways-companies-can-support-their-employees-mental-health/) - South Africa’s workplaces are battling a silent mental health crisis, and according to a recent study by Sapien Labs’ fourth annual Mental State of the World Report, South Africa has the worst mental wellbeing levels ranking 69 out of 71 countries, with little improvement post the Covid-19 pandemic. Businesses have a critical role to play
- [Webfluential launches evolved platform to empower Africa's Creator Economy](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/webfluential-launches-evolved-platform-to-empower-africas-creator-economy/) - The increasing number of spam calls, complaints from consumers and mounting pressure from the Information Regulator to crack down on unsolicited or cold calling consumers, means that direct marketers need to find more compliant ways to reach their audiences.
- [Enhancing Customer Experiences: The AI Revolution in South African Business](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/enhancing-customer-experiences-the-ai-revolution-in-south-african-business/) - In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, South African businesses are harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to transform their customer service experiences. From AI chatbots to virtual assistants and automated support systems, innovative technologies are reshaping how companies interact with their clientele, offering streamlined operations and heightened satisfaction levels. Let’s delve into the rise of
- [Generative AI In Cybersecurity: What Should Business Leaders Know?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/generative-ai-in-cybersecurity-what-should-business-leaders-know/) - New artificial intelligence (AI) tools help criminals orchestrate elaborate frauds. Earlier this year, thieves made off with $25 million from engineering firm Arup, impersonating the company’s CFO to manipulate an employee into transferring the money. More recently, criminals attempted to steal money and company information from a senior executive at global marketing giant WPP. They
- [AI in Education: Transforming Learning and Teaching in South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ai-in-education-transforming-learning-and-teaching-in-south-africa/) - Artificial Intelligence (AI) is making waves across various sectors, and education is no exception. In South Africa, AI is starting to reshape the way students learn and teachers teach, offering innovative solutions to long-standing challenges. The Rise of AI in South African Education The integration of AI into education in South Africa is part of
- [Turning Tech into a Shield: How Data and AI can Protect the Rhinos](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/turning-tech-into-a-shield-how-data-and-ai-can-protect-the-rhinos/) - Between 2006 to 2022, over 9 400 African rhinos were lost to poaching, and in 2023 alone, almost 500 rhinos were killed in South Africa. These numbers are alarming, and rhino poaching remains a highly sensitive issue in the country. But in the face of this ongoing crisis, advanced technologies such as data and AI are emerging
- [AI and ethics: Are we sacrificing morality for progress?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ai-and-ethics-are-we-sacrificing-morality-for-progress/) - Artificial intelligence (AI) adoption has increased in recent years. In 2018, those companies who were actively using AI only devoted 5% of their digital budgets to it. Fast forward to 2023 and that number has jumped to 52%, as reported by Vention. It is clear that the technology is evolving rapidly. However, within that context,
- [The Progression of AI Reporting: Covering News from the Ground Up to In-Depth Stories](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-progression-of-ai-reporting-covering-news-from-the-ground-up-to-in-depth-stories/) - In the ever-evolving landscape of journalism, artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping how news is gathered, produced, and disseminated. The progression of AI reporting has been remarkable, enabling news agencies like NewsGPT to cover everything from breaking news to in-depth investigative stories with unprecedented efficiency and accuracy. This article explores how AI is revolutionizing news reporting
- [AI Analytics: A New Era for Understanding News Agency Audiences](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ai-analytics-a-new-era-for-understanding-news-agency-audiences/) - The landscape of journalism is undergoing a significant transformation with the advent of artificial intelligence (AI). One of the most promising developments is the use of AI analytics to understand news agency audiences better. At the forefront of this revolution is NewsGPT, a pioneering company that creates AI-generated news articles. By employing sophisticated AI analytics,
- [Human-AI Collaboration: Pioneering the Future of Journalism   ](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/human-ai-collaboration-pioneering-the-future-of-journalism/) - In an era defined by rapid technological advancements, the field of journalism is undergoing a transformative shift. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is at the heart of this evolution, enhancing the capabilities of news organizations worldwide. This article explores the dynamic collaboration between human journalists and AI. The Emergence of AI in Journalism The integration of AI
- [Celebrating 50 years of innovation and excellence with Databuild](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/celebrating-50-years-of-innovation-and-excellence-with-databuild/) - This year marks a significant milestone for Databuild as the company celebrates 50 years of continued commitment to innovation, excellence, and service in the construction industry. Founded in June 1974 by Peter and Matilda Burger in the garage of their Bryanston home, Databuild has evolved from its humble beginnings into a key player in the
- [Protecting travellers amid Mzansi’s travel surge](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/protecting-travellers-amid-mzansis-travel-surge/) - With summer holidays on the horizon, South Africa’s hospitality industry is gearing up for the influx of both international and local travellers. As visitors from Europe, the USA, China, and across Africa prepare to descend on Mzansi for the warmer peak season, transit hubs like airports and their adjoining hotels are set to experience a
- [Transform year-end functions into wellness parties for a healthier workplace](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/transform-year-end-functions-into-wellness-parties-for-a-healthier-workplace/) - Zanele Matome, CEO and Founder of Welo Health As companies prepare for their annual year-end parties, it is easy to over-indulge on food and drink. With an increasing awareness of mental health, work-life balance, and overall wellness, there has been a shift towards wellness days instead of parties. Imagine an event dedicated to revitalising, refocusing,
- [Essential privacy tools that businesses should add to their tech stack to keep up with the threat landscape](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/essential-privacy-tools-that-businesses-should-add-to-their-tech-stack-to-keep-up-with-the-threat-landscape/) - By Andrew Bourne, Regional Manager, South Africa, Zoho Corp The advancements we’ve seen in tech over the past few years have, without a doubt, brought incredible gains for the businesses that adopted them successfully. Advances in artificial intelligence (AI), for example, are already driving shifts in everything from agriculture to medicine and even creative fields
- [Can A Risk Mindset Address Cybersecurity Skills Shortages?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/can-a-risk-mindset-address-cybersecurity-skills-shortages/) - Training new cybersecurity people is essential but it’s not enough to address skill shortages. Risk-based frameworks are helping close that gap. South Africa needs a larger cybersecurity skills base and more professionals in the field to combat the escalating threat of cyberattacks. Yet, with a global shortage of skilled cybersecurity practitioners, initiatives to grow the
- [New partnership allows parents to keep their child’s health data from birth](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/new-partnership-allows-parents-to-keep-their-childs-health-data-from-birth/) - In a game-changing development for healthcare, parents can start building a lifelong medical record for their children from birth, thanks to a partnership between personal digital health vault, Ajuda, and the National Metabolomics Platform (NMP), hosted at the Centre for Human Metabolomics at North-West University. The partnership will see a baby’s Newborn Screening results uploaded
- [Global commercial insurance rates fall 1% in Q3](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/global-commercial-insurance-rates-fall-1-in-q3/) - Marsh the world’s leading insurance broker and risk advisor and a business of Marsh McLennan (NYSE: MMC) has released the Global Insurance Market Index for Q3. The Global Insurance Market Index is Marsh’s proprietary measure of global commercial insurance rate change at renewal and provides insights on the world’s major insurance markets. Manik Kak, Portfolio Solutions
- [Even if local investments break their historic underperformance, having offshore options is still critical](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/even-if-local-investments-break-their-historic-underperformance-having-offshore-options-is-still-critical/) - Get as much of your money offshore as possible.” For many years, that’s been the advice that South African financial advisors have given to their customers, and with good reason too. Not only does offshore exposure mean a more diversified portfolio of investments, but it’s also meant better returns, particularly over the last decade or
- [Cybersecurity in 2024: Safeguarding Your Business in an Evolving Digital Landscape](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/cybersecurity-in-2024-safeguarding-your-business-in-an-evolving-digital-landscape/) - As cyber threats continue to grow in both scale and sophistication, businesses in 2024 must remain more vigilant than ever to safeguard their sensitive data and financial assets. With cyber risks advancing alongside technological progression, cybersecurity can no longer be treated as an afterthought; it is as crucial as any other core business policy. According
- [When research listens: The transformative power of inclusive research methodologies](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/when-research-listens-the-transformative-power-of-inclusive-research-methodologies/) - Community-engaged and inclusive research is crucial for achieving health equity By Associate Professor Lynn Hendricks, Stellenbosch University Winning a prestigious award for your research is always a momentous occasion. Receiving the 2023 Springer Nature Inclusive Health Research Award was more than just personal recognition, it was a validation of the unwavering commitment to community-engaged and
- [Unlocking the Power of an Hour](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/unlocking-the-power-of-an-hour/) - Unlocking the Power of an Hour SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER Three years ago, businesswoman Taryn Uhlmann, and paediatrician Dr Liza Street, decided to start a business using something neither of them had – spare time. This is how they managed to get their business off the ground. When Taryn Uhlmann and Dr. Liza Street
- [The Clocktober Rush. Is it worth it?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-clocktober-rush-is-it-worth-it/) - What’s all the fuss about October in South Africa? Everyone is run off their feet, sweating the small stuff, breathing heavily, jumping hula hoops. Somehow October seems to be the ‘red flag’ of months, where stress indicators fly off the charts, as we beat our deadline drums and rush around the clock in a frazzled fiasco
- [Fixing SA's Cybersecurity: Insights and comment on the CSIR's Cybersecurity Resilience Report](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/fixing-sas-cybersecurity-insights-and-comment-on-the-csirs-cybersecurity-resilience-report/) - Only half of SA’s public sector organisations conduct daily cyber threat checks, and two-thirds of cybersecurity roles remain unfilled. But risk-based cybersecurity is changing the picture. South African organisations are facing persistent threats from online criminals, a situation that the country is very familiar with. A new report from the CSIR’s Information and Cybersecurity Centre
- [Real Stories, Real Influence, Real Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/real-stories-real-influence-real-africa/) - Brands venturing into the African market are quickly discovering one thing: you can’t buy authenticity. You must earn it. Award-winning influencer agencies, like theSalt, in South Africa, have explored far and wide to deepen its African influencer roots, and are now spearheading the way for others to follow. Whether it’s connecting with consumers in Kenya’s digital hubs
- [The Art of Mergers and Acquisitions: Mastering the Strategy for Business Growth](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-art-of-mergers-and-acquisitions-mastering-the-strategy-for-business-growth/) - In today’s fast-paced business landscape, mergers and acquisitions have become an integral part of a company’s growth strategy. The art of successfully navigating these complex processes requires a deep understanding of the industry dynamics, strategic thinking, and a keen eye for opportunities. In our article, “The Art of Mergers and Acquisitions: Mastering the Strategy for
- [How to finish the year strong](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-to-finish-the-year-strong/) - What a year…. And there might still be a twist to come. With over 2 billion people in more than 50 countries heading to the polls, 2024 has been hailed as democracy’s biggest test. South Africa, too, finds itself at an historical crossroad, with a Government of National Unity (GNU) marking the first time
- [Shaping justice and revolutionising legal education for a transformative South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/shaping-justice-and-revolutionising-legal-education-for-a-transformative-south-africa/) - Legal education has traditionally been seen as the cornerstone of shaping society’s future leaders, policymakers, and advocates of justice. As we stand on the brink of a new era in South Africa, the call for a transformative approach to legal education has never been louder. South Africa’s socio-economic environment is complex and deeply rooted in
- [Mastering your IT CV – A guide for aspiring tech wizards](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/mastering-your-it-cv-a-guide-for-aspiring-tech-wizards/) - Hey there, all you tech enthusiasts and future IT stars! Are you ready to navigate the complex world of crafting that perfect CV? In today’s digital marketplace, your curriculum vitae is your golden ticket to unlocking IT opportunities. But watch out, the journey has its challenges, especially regarding your education and certifications. Let’s dive into
- [The importance of health and safety in construction](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-importance-of-health-and-safety-in-construction/) - In South Africa, more than 5,900 accidents in the construction industry were reported for 2023. Of these, 32.3% were ‘struck by’ accidents (produced by forcible contact or impact between the injured person and an object or piece of equipment) signifying the importance of adhering to health and safety regulations. While this is a legal requirement, these regulations
- [Overcoming AI Challenges in Investigative Reporting](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/overcoming-ai-challenges-in-investigative-reporting/) - Investigative reporting has long been a cornerstone of journalism, uncovering hidden truths and holding power to account. However, as the digital age advances, the landscape of journalism is evolving rapidly, with artificial intelligence (AI) playing an increasingly significant role. One company at the forefront of this transformation is NewsGPT, which leverages large language models to
- [How IoT solutions can drive business growth](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-iot-solutions-can-drive-business-growth/) - The Internet of Things (IoT) makes it possible for businesses to run smoother, faster, and smarter. Of course, IoT has been around for quite some time. But more than the traditional routers and tracking units, we believe that accessing customised connectivity solutions tailored to the industry-specific needs of companies will take IoT to the next
- [Insuring the Uninsurable: How Event Based Cover is Changing the Game for Modern Workers](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/insuring-the-uninsurable-how-event-based-cover-is-changing-the-game-for-modern-workers/) - As the nature of work evolves, so too must the life insurance products that protect those earning a monthly income. The number of previously uninsurable workers in the local gig economy is multiplying. A pre-Covid study shows that this represented at least 1% of South Africa’s workforce and the same study pegs the annual growth of the
- [Is Cybersecurity Broken?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/is-cybersecurity-broken/) - Digital crime continues to grow while companies keep spending heavily on security. Can we change this trajectory? Companies are spending large amounts on cybersecurity, yet cyber threats continue to persist and thrive. Security executives are under tremendous pressure, and companies are questioning the wisdom of their security budgets. These views are still at the fringe of
- [Avoid regulatory penalties: Why payroll and HR experts are your best compliance partners](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/avoid-regulatory-penalties-why-payroll-and-hr-experts-are-your-best-compliance-partners/) - Payroll and HR regulatory requirements are constantly evolving, and what is compliant today may need to be adjusted tomorrow. Even minor oversights can lead to significant penalties, tarnishing a company’s reputation and impacting its bottom line. Regulatory bodies such as SARS do not accept ignorance as an excuse for non-compliance, and the onus is on
- [Addressing the rising challenge of Cancer](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/addressing-the-rising-challenge-of-cancer/) - “Cancer is one of the main drivers of claims in Life & Health insurance. Every year, more than 20 million people are diagnosed with cancer and about 10 million people die from it worldwide. How can we address this increasing challenge of cancer? There are links between metabolic risks and many kinds of cancer, such
- [From perks to purpose: Enhancing employee well-being with everyday benefits](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/from-perks-to-purpose-enhancing-employee-well-being-with-everyday-benefits/) - Given the competitive landscape, organisations need to look at the holistic structure of their employees to ensure they attract and retain talent. Beyond earning a salary, what other ways can an employer improve the well-being of its staff? Providing everyday benefits can be a game-changer in this regard. This is not only a South African
- [Thriving on the Challenges of the Entrepreneurial Journey: An Interview with Johan van Greune, CEO of BooYaa Golf](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/thriving-on-the-challenges-of-the-entrepreneurial-journey/) - South African Business Matters presents “Entrepreneurship Matters,” a segment where we highlight South Africa’s innovative leaders who thrive on the challenges of business. In this interview, Johan van Greune, CEO of BooYaa Golf, shares insights on his entrepreneurial journey, the challenges he has faced, and the strategies that keep him motivated. South African Business Matters: Johan,
- [Government prioritises astro tourism](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/government-prioritises-astro-tourism/) - South Africa celebrates Tourism Month annually in September to promote domestic travel, showcase the country’s diverse tourism offerings, and highlight the sector’s significant contribution to the South African economy. This year, it is celebrated under the localised theme: “Tourism and Peace – 30 years of connecting People to Places and Cultures” and it will be
- [MEC Maile Launches Gauteng Tourism Month 2024 Programme](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/mec-maile-launches-gauteng-tourism-month-2024-programme/) - Gauteng MEC for Finance & Economic Development, Mr. Lebogang Maile today Sunday 1st September 2024 addressed members of the media during the province’s official launch of the Gauteng Tourism Month Programme at the Sanctuary Mandela Hotel in Houghton. The impact of COVID-19 on tourism in Gauteng Tourism is a crucial sector in the South African and
- [Draw up a will and secure your family's future](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/draw-up-a-will-and-secure-your-familys-future/) - In South Africa, recent data shows that over 70% of working South Africans do not have a valid will, leading to various complications for their loved ones when they pass away. This issue is even more striking considering that 85% of South Africans die without a will. The slow uptake of wills is often attributed
- [Could Have, Should Have, Will](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/could-have-should-have-will/) - If you think a will is only for the rich or famous or that drawing up a will is an expensive or complicated process, think again. More than half (51%) of South Africans surveyed in the 2024 Sanlam Legacy Survey don’t think they need a will because they don’t own enough to justify having one;
- [The key role of a fund administrator extends beyond just processing claims](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-key-role-of-a-fund-administrator-extends-beyond-just-processing-claims/) - There’s been an increasing number of several big employee benefit fund administrators exiting the market, and employers are encouraged to build relationships with administrators that are committed to being long-term partners – particularly when it comes to corporate retirement funds. That’s the advice of Siphamandla Buthelezi, head of platforms at financial advisory firm NMG Benefits:
- [From Bread Line to Bottom Line](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/from-bread-line-to-bottom-line/) - The Future of the South African Realtor is questionable. Or, is it? In an industry marked by rapid change and growing demands, the South African property market stands on the edge of a significant transformation. With economic uncertainties on the rise, real estate agents face unprecedented challenges, now tasked with finding innovative ways to secure
- [Legal implications of the Climate Change Act](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/legal-implications-of-the-climate-change-act/) - South Africa has reached a historic milestone with the formal signing of the Climate Change Act No. 22 of 2024. The Climate Change Bill was signed into law by President Cyril Ramaphosa on 18 July 2024 and published as the Climate Change Act, 2022 (Act) on 23 July 2024. However, in terms of section 38
- [What Is Public Affairs All About?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/what-is-public-affairs-all-about/) - Organizations aren’t islands. In an increasingly complex and changing world, monitoring and managing the external environment is a must for any organization aiming for success. For quite some time, corporations have built in-house Public Affairs capabilities to be on top of social and political development and to align their practices with global public agendas (such
- [Retirement Planning: 10 Choices for South Africans](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/retirement-planning-10-choices-for-south-africans/) - Planning for retirement can be a daunting task, but with the right investment choices, South Africans can ensure a comfortable and financially secure future. Whether you are just starting your career or approaching retirement age, it is essential to have a well-thought-out investment strategy. Here are some smart investment choices to consider as you plan
- [How South Africa’s Automation Industry is Fostering a Women-Inclusive Environment in 2024](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-south-africas-automation-industry-is-fostering-a-women-inclusive-environment-in-2024/) - In 2024, South Africa’s automation industry is not just advancing technologically but also making significant strides in fostering an inclusive environment for women. As automation transforms industries and creates new opportunities, it is also breaking down barriers and creating pathways for women to thrive. This article explores how the automation sector in South Africa is
- [Creators Are the New Media Titans](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/creators-are-the-new-media-titans/) - As traditional media struggles to keep pace, a new era of direct-to-audience content is redefining the landscape. The downfall of traditional media is no longer a distant prediction; it’s unfolding before our eyes. Creators, not corporations, are now at the helm, reshaping how content is delivered and consumed. The times of waiting for the evening
- [South Africa’s Tourism Sector in 2024: Trends, Challenges, and New Leadership](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-africas-tourism-sector-in-2024-trends-challenges-and-new-leadership/) - South Africa’s tourism sector, a cornerstone of the country’s economy, is undergoing significant transformations in 2024. This article explores the latest trends, challenges, and developments, drawing on recent research and case studies for a comprehensive overview. Post-Pandemic Recovery and Growth Research Insight: According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) 2024 report, South Africa’s
- [How do we defeat cybercriminals?](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/how-do-we-defeat-cybercriminals/) - Enterprises are spending billions to reduce digital risk, yet cybercrime keeps growing. Why is cybersecurity not changing the situation? The problem isn’t with technology but with selling more security software without aligning them to business risks. In early July, online criminals posted a text file to cybercrime channels that contained nearly 10 billion passwords collected from cyber
- [Sanofi commits to affordable insulin pens for diabetic patients](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/sanofi-commits-to-affordable-insulin-pens-for-diabetic-patients/) - Over the past few years, there has been a notable shift towards the use of insulin pens in the public sector, replacing traditional vials. This transition has been driven by the advantages insulin pens offer, including improved dosing accuracy, ease of use for patients, greater convenience, and better adherence to treatment.1 The move to basal
- [Entrepreneurs are Paving the Way for Economic Recovery](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/entrepreneurs-are-paving-the-way-for-economic-recovery/) - Economic recovery is a crucial imperative for South Africa, as it paves the way for sustainable growth and urgently needed job creation. Among the various sectors poised to make a significant impact, entrepreneurship stands out as a powerful catalyst for change. By encouraging innovation, driving competition, and creating employment opportunities, this sector plays a key
- [Bidvest Bank's Mmamollo Programme drives female empowerment](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/bidvest-banks-mmamollo-programme-drives-female-empowerment/) - Bidvest Bank is making significant strides in empowering its female employees through its strategic Mmamollo programme. Launched in August last year during Women’s Month, Mmamollo, which means “to ignite with fire,” aims to develop the bank’s most promising female employees, building a pipeline of talented women ready to take on executive positions. The Mmamollo programme
- [Turning Stories into Sales with Customer Generated Content](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/turning-stories-into-sales-with-customer-generated-content/) - As South Africans, having stories woven into the fabric of everyday life is an age-old tradition. For generations, communities have gathered around the warmth of a fire, sharing tales, experiences, and personal stories. This timeless practice of word-of-mouth has always been the most trusted form of communication, a way for people to connect and share
- [Water Quality in South Africa: Current Status and Challenges](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/water-quality-in-south-africa-current-status-and-challenges/) - Water quality is a critical issue for South Africa, a country facing significant water management challenges due to its semi-arid climate, high population density in urban areas, and historical underinvestment in infrastructure. The condition of South Africa’s water resources is influenced by a combination of natural and anthropogenic factors. Here’s an in-depth look at the
- [The South African Construction Extortion Epidemic: Insights from the Experts](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-south-african-construction-extortion-epidemic-insights-from-the-experts/) - South Africa faces a growing epidemic of extortion within the construction industry, a trend that poses significant risks to project timelines, costs, and overall industry integrity. Construction extortion, involving the coercion of companies to pay bribes or face project disruptions, has become an urgent issue that demands proactive strategies for mitigation and response. This article
- [Revitalizing South Africa’s Transport: Tackling Challenges with Bold New Strategies](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/revitalizing-south-africas-transport-tackling-challenges-with-bold-new-strategies/) - South Africa’s transport industry, a vital component of the nation’s economy, is currently facing a myriad of challenges. These obstacles range from aging infrastructure and safety concerns to inefficiencies and funding shortages. As we progress through 2024, the newly appointed Minister of Transport is keen on addressing these issues with a series of strategic initiatives.
- [South African Women in Leadership: Smashing the Glass Ceiling](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-african-women-in-leadership-smashing-the-glass-ceiling/) - South Africa women are making notable progress in attaining leadership positions. From corporate boardrooms to entrepreneurial ventures, women continue to demonstrate their capability to lead with vision, innovation, and resilience. Initiatives aimed at empowering women and promoting gender equality are starting to bear fruit, with a gradual increase in female representation in senior roles. Key
- [Women in Business! The Lend of Opportunity is here](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/women-in-business-the-lend-of-opportunity-is-here/) - With only a mere 31% of registered women-owned businesses in South Africa, recognising the significant economic contributions of women entrepreneurs has become more pressing than ever before. This Women’s Month, South African SME funding provider, MoolaLend, is placing the spotlight on the crucial role of women-led businesses in South Africa’s economy – emphasising the importance
- [Introducing the Future of Personalised Healthcare](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/introducing-the-future-of-personalised-healthcare/) - As technology continues to shrink the world, migration is becoming easier. According to Statista, nearly a million South Africans emigrated in 2020, and the semigration trend in recent years has seen hundreds of thousands of South Africans relocating between provinces. While belongings can go into a truck or shipping container, something even more important is slipping through the
- [Empowering South African Women to Achieve Financial Independence](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/empowering-south-african-women-to-achieve-financial-independence/) - For those who think the heart of South Africa does not beat within its women, have not truly lived the African experience. This Women’s Month, alternative investment company, SV Capital, shines a light on the extraordinary resilience of South African women and their journey towards financial independence. Co-founders Ayanda Majola and Kagiso Tloubatla are passionate
- [The Business of Education:  The Winners and the Losers ](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-business-of-education-the-winners-and-the-losers/) - As South Africa approaches the 30th anniversary of its first democratic election, we have another education crisis. Nearly 50% (44,3%) of our youth are unemployed, the majority of whom are not in education or training, either. The so-called NEETS are potentially another lost generation. Big budgets – small results At R303 billion, South Africa’s annual
- [The Role and Importance of SMMEs in the South African Economy](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-role-and-importance-of-smmes-in-the-south-african-economy/) - Small, medium, and micro Enterprises (SMMEs) are crucial to the South African economy, contributing significantly to GDP and employment. According to the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA), SMMEs account for approximately 34% of South Africa’s GDP and employ around 60% of the workforce. In a country grappling with high unemployment rates, SMMEs provide essential job
- [The Essence of Leadership](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-essence-of-leadership/) - Leadership is not merely a title or a position; rather, it is a force that shapes organizations, influences cultures, and transcends into every facet of our lives. In this blog, we delve into the significance of leadership, explore its impact beyond boardrooms, and discuss the vacuum of leadership in government. We also draw inspiration from
- [Pioneering Sustainability: Tech Solutions Transforming South African Enterprises](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/pioneering-sustainability-tech-solutions-transforming-south-african-enterprises/) - As South African SMEs navigate digital transformation, they encounter a host of cybersecurity threats. Limited resources, lack of awareness, evolving cyber tactics, and regulatory demands pose significant challenges. This article a condensed guide to fortify your SME against cyber risks. SMEs should view cybersecurity as a strategic investment. By implementing these measures, businesses can mitigate risks, protect sensitive data, and thrive in the digital era.
- [Transforming Supply Chains: Blockchain Innovations in South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/transforming-supply-chains-blockchain-innovations-in-south-africa/) - In the bustling landscape of South African industries, a technological revolution is underway, reshaping the traditional dynamics of supply chain management. At the forefront of this revolution is blockchain technology, offering a decentralized and immutable ledger system that is revolutionizing transparency, traceability, and trust across various sectors, from agriculture to manufacturing. Let’s delve into the
- [Breaking Down the Barriers to Financial Literacy in South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/breaking-down-the-barriers-to-financial-literacy-in-south-africa/) - Financial literacy is a fundamental skill that every individual should possess, yet many South African adults, including professionals, struggle to understand the basics of personal finance and investing. The reality is that the financial industry has created a complex and confusing landscape, making it difficult for people to make informed decisions about their money. The
- [Redefining Retail: The Impact of Extended Reality (XR) on Marketing and Shopping Experiences in South Africa](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/redefining-retail-the-impact-of-extended-reality-xr-on-marketing-and-shopping-experiences-in-south-africa/) - In the dynamic world of marketing and retail, innovation is key to capturing the attention and loyalty of consumers. Amidst this ever-evolving landscape, extended reality (XR) technologies, including virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), have emerged as powerful tools reshaping the way businesses engage with customers. In this article, we delve into the growing

## Pages

- [South African Business Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/) - Leadership Matters Rise of the Chief Growth Officer : versatile C-suite leaders in high demand Youth Matters Five Ways Young People Can Build a Career in a Changing World of Work Entrepreneurship Matters From Waiting for Work to Creating It: Why South Africa Needs More Artisan Entrepreneurs Personal Finance Matters Financial pressure is a chronic
- [South African Business Funding Guide & Directory 2026](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-african-business-funding-guide-directory-2026/) - Executive summary Securing business funding is not about applying everywhere. It is about aligning three things: your funding need, your stage of business growth, and your level of funding readiness. When these elements align with the right funding provider, the path to capital becomes clearer, faster and significantly more achievable. South Africa offers a
- [Entrepreneurship <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/entrepreneurshipmatters/) - #EntrepreneurshipMatters Celebrating the entrepreneurs building South Africa’s future. From start-up founders and small business owners to innovators and industry leaders, Entrepreneurship Matters shares the stories, lessons, challenges and ideas driving business growth across the country. Featured Stories 27 July, 2026 Modern businesses work in an environment filled with uncertainties. Customers are demanding efficiency and speed
- [Partner with us](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/partner-with-us/) - Partner with us South African Business Matters helps organisations build influence, strengthen reputation, and connect with the audiences that shape business outcomes. Through credible business engagement and strategic dialogue, we help organisations contribute meaningfully to the conversations shaping business in South Africa Explore Solutions Partner with Us
- [YouthMatters Newsroom Series](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/youthmatters-newsroom-series/) - #YouthMatters Amplifying the voices of young South Africans who are shaping the future of business, innovation, and social change. Stories of ambition, resilience, and impact. Featured Stories 28 July, 2026 Youth unemployment and social inequality remain among South Africa’s biggest and most persistent challenges. Yet no single programme, organisation or sector can solve them alone.
- [CV Download](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/cv-download/) - Thank you for your interest – download CV Checklist below. Download CV Checklist
- [About South African Business <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/about-south-african-business-matters/) - South African Business Matters is where professionals converge to engage, contribute, and ultimately influence the trajectory of South African business.
- [Agriculture <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/agriculturematters/) - Stay updated on South Africa’s agriculture sector. Explore trends, innovations, sustainability, and policy changes shaping the future of farming.
- [Infrastructure <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/infrastructurematters/) - How SA’s new Credit Guarantee Vehicle could unlock private infrastructure capital By Conway Williams, Head of Credit, Prescient Investment Management Not every multilateral funding announcement warrants a second read. Last month’s announcement did. For those of us who spend our days considering and pricing credit risk in... Digital infrastructure is no longer a technology bet
- [South African Business Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/south-african-business-matters/) - Leadership Matters Rise of the Chief Growth Officer : versatile C-suite leaders in high demand Youth Matters Five Ways Young People Can Build a Career in a Changing World of Work Entrepreneurship Matters From Waiting for Work to Creating It: Why South Africa Needs More Artisan Entrepreneurs Personal Finance Matters Financial pressure is a chronic
- [South African Business Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/southafricanbusinessmatters/) - South African Business Matters is where professionals converge to engage, contribute, and ultimately influence the trajectory of South African business.
- [Digital Transformation <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/digital-transformation-matters/) - Bridging the Digital Divide: Telkom Connects Learners to Possibility at Sitoza Senior Secondary School In today’s increasingly digital world, connecting South African learners is about more than access to the internet, it’s about unlocking opportunities, expanding knowledge and enabling new possibilities for the future. Building a digitally fluent and... Why long-term skills development matters more
- [Personal Finance<i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/personal-finance-matters/) - Financial pressure is a chronic household crisis Rising living costs overtake interest rates as South Africans report record levels of stress at home More than 70% of South Africans say they experience financial stress, driven largely by rising costs – and home life stress has reached a five-year... Are you ghosting your money? Six
- [Privacy Policy](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/privacy-policy/) - 1. Introduction Welcome to South African Business Matters (“we,” “us,” “our”). This privacy policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your personal data. We are committed to safeguarding your information and ensuring transparency in our practices. Use of our website constitutes agreement to the terms outlined herein. 2. Definitions Personal Information: Any information
- [Join the SABM Community](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/subscribe/) - Join Our South African Business Matters Community
- [ESG <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/esgmatters/) - How many litres of water does one AI prompt use? By: Dimpho Sekhaolelo, Quantitative Analyst and ESG Committee Chair at Prescient Investment Management Every time you ask a chatbot a question, somewhere in the world a server warms up. What feels like a simple digital interaction is, in fact, a... Why are SA businesses still
- [HEALA](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/heala/) - Welcome to the Chew On This Series with Heala Heala is a leading organization dedicated to addressing the pressing issues of hunger, food insecurity, and obesity in South Africa. Through their insightful Chew On This series, they delve deep into the root causes of these challenges and explore evidence-based solutions to create positive change. Why
- [Youth <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/youthmatters/) - Building Stronger Local Economies Through Youth Partnerships Youth unemployment and social inequality remain among South Africa’s biggest and most persistent challenges. Yet no single programme, organisation or sector can solve them alone. While many interventions focus on individual solutions such as... Five Ways Young People Can Build a Career in a Changing World of Work
- [Mental Health<i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/mental-healthmatters/) - SA workplaces see sharp rise in alcohol and gambling as stress becomes chronic Lyra Southern Africa’s latest behavioural health data reveals a steady year‑on‑year rise in addictive behaviours among South African employees, reflecting how prolonged stress is reshaping the ways people cope, escape and self‑manage emotional... Movember – Mental health in sub-Saharan Africa is a
- [Inclusion <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/inclusionmatters/) - Africa’s path to gender economic parity has been pushed back by 50 years, but digital entrepreneurship offers a way forward Boston Consulting Group (BCG) has today released a new report, Financing Women’s Digital Entrepreneurship: A Pathway to Closing Africa’s Economic Gender Gap, revealing that women’s... BME ignites hope, builds resilience, and fosters thriving communities BME,
- [Government <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/governmentmatters/) - The Budget Speech through a Data Lens: What it means for South Africans Eighty20, South Africa’s leading consumer analytics, strategy and research company analysed the Budget Speech using a combination of economic and secondary data sources – including MAPS, BrandMapp, Credit Bureau, the Labour Force... From fragmented to unified: How AI and cloud technology are transforming government service delivery Lerato Mathabatha, Public
- [Climate <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/climatematters/) - Sustainability is one responsible decision at a time Today, businesses must demonstrate sustainability with action – gone are the days when intentions were sufficient. From industry policies, reducing environmental impact and retaining relevance in a market heavily influenced by consumer behaviour and... South African businesses face rising workforce risks as summer brings floods and storms
- [Development <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/developmentmatters/) - SONA 2026: A shift towards systemic reform By Tshikululu Social Investments In the year following South Africa’s G20 Presidency, President Ramaphosa’s 2026 State of the Nation Address offered a sobering but optimistic reflection on the country’s trajectory. It highlighted meaningful economic... Prof. Eldrid Jordaan calls for year-round citizen engagement in Democracy As President Cyril Ramaphosa
- [AI <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/ai-matters/) - When to use AI at university – and when not to Featuring insights from Brad Latilla-Campbell, country manager at Crimson Education South Africa’s conversation around AI in education is loud, contested, and far from settled. But while that debate plays out, students applying to international... The AI bubble may build lasting value but businesses must
- [UX <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/uxmatters/) - The power of technology and safety in loyalty rewards programmes Kinola Pather, CEO of Randgo With 76% of South Africans using a loyalty programme, brands are embracing this opportunity to drive customer engagement and increase business growth. Of course, as technology continues to evolve, loyalty programmes have... Enhancing Customer Experiences: The AI Revolution in South African Business
- [Cloud Computing <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/cloudcomputingmatters/) - South Africa’s cloud moment is here. Is your business ready? By Mukumela Sibata, Software Product Manager at Rectron South African businesses are running out of reasons to delay cloud adoption. In an economy defined by rising costs, power instability, and digital-first competitors, the real risk is no longer... Cloud best practices for 2025 Ralph Berndt,
- [Cyber Security <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/cybersecuritymatters/) - You Have Been Storm’ed Everyone at some point clicks something they should not have. An email link without thinking. Or, in a rush, you click a web or domain address before checking it out. In this story, about a forty person electrical engineering firm in Germiston, that... Ransomware is shifting targets, and many organisations are
- [CRM <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/crmmatters/) - The Rise of 4C Predictions: Smarter Predictions for a Smarter World Imagine a world where your most important decisions—whether it’s investing in stocks, predicting property trends, or making game-changing sports bets—are guided by cutting-edge AI insights. That world is here, and it’s powered by 4C Predictions, the... Zoho Finance and Operations Suite Sees 43% Growth
- [Technology <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/technologymatters/) - The mid-market IT squeeze: too complex to manage casually, too lean to build everything in-house Michael Currie, Director at The Cloud Crew In many South African mid-market businesses, the IT team is now expected to operate with the discipline of an enterprise technology function, but without the depth of resources that larger organisations can... Catalytic
- [Finance <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/financematters/) - FPI and Financial Advice New Zealand form international partnership to strengthen financial planning profession The Financial Planning Institute of Southern Africa (FPI) and Financial Advice New Zealand (FANZ) have formed a new international partnership designed to strengthen professional standards, share expertise and create new opportunities for financial... Should Private Placement be the preferred option? By:
- [Banking <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/bankingmatters/) - New data reveals who in the MSME space is getting funded and who is being left behind Finfind, South Africa’s leading online access to finance solution for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), has released the highly anticipated SA MSME Access to Finance Report 2025 in partnership with African Bank. This second edition... Transforming Data
- [Investment <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/investmentmatters/) - Should Private Placement be the preferred option? By: Wayne Smith, Head of Corporate Note Placements at Prescient Securities Private placements have long played an important role in corporate funding strategies, with the market evolving significantly over the past two decades to create new... AI in stockbrocking – Why co-pilot must come before autopilot By: Abdur
- [Workplace <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/workplacematters/) - Why Protecting Financial Talent Matters More Than Ever in the Age of AI South Africa’s financial sector has long served as a vital gateway for young talent. Banks, insurers, and investment firms have traditionally absorbed the best and brightest graduates, offering structured programmes with roles where junior... Beyond Coworking: Why the Future of Work is
- [Management <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/managementmatters/) - Strategic leadership on demand: introducing the C-Suite to the access economy Author: Rowan De Klerk, CEO of The CFO Centre South Africa “What can somebody do in two days a week that a full-time resource cannot?” This question challenges conventional thinking about leadership and talent. For Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) and... The Essence of Leadership
- [HR <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/hrmatters/) - Why HR deserves a seat at the leadership table By Nadia Leita, Director at Leverage Leadership “If HR cannot challenge leadership, it’s not HR. It’s damage control.” Over the years, this has become one of my strongest beliefs about the role of human resources in business... The Real Cost of Getting Hiring Wrong Executive appointments
- [Leadership <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/leadershipmatters/) - Rise of the Chief Growth Officer : versatile C-suite leaders in high demand Rapid market change, technological disruption, and economic pressures are causing South African companies to no longer be content with incremental improvements to their core operations. To unlock new avenues for growth, businesses are increasingly... Why great operators don’t automatically become great leaders
- [Water <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/watermatters/) - How many litres of water does one AI prompt use? By: Dimpho Sekhaolelo, Quantitative Analyst and ESG Committee Chair at Prescient Investment Management Every time you ask a chatbot a question, somewhere in the world a server warms up. What feels like a simple digital interaction is, in fact, a... World Water Day: South Africa’s
- [Tourism <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/tourismmatters/) - Hospitality’s biggest challenge isn’t technology. It’s talent Many hospitality businesses are struggling with a long-standing challenge that the rapid adoption of AI and automation is compounding: finding and retaining the right people. AI, automated booking systems, cloud-based management platforms, smart... Before You Click: The Ethics of Travel Photography When you join a photography tour abroad,
- [Transport <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/transportmatters/) - Three ways heavy diesel users can manage the fuel crisis By Ricky Luntz, CEO, Refuel South Africa’s heavy users of diesel, such as the mining, agriculture and food production industries, face three converging pressures on their fuel budgets. Firstly, fuel price volatility is eroding profits in these... South Africa’s consumer class is back on the
- [Retail <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/retailmatters/) - Retailers risk costly decisions when they fail to understand where customers really are South African retailers have access to more customer, sales and operational data than ever before. Yet many important decisions about where to open stores, how to optimise existing locations and how to respond to changing customer behaviour are still... Inside the invisible
- [PR <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/pr-matters/) - PR is entering its defining era – not its demise By Bradly Howland – President-Elect: Public Relations Institute of Southern Africa (PRISA) There is no question that the public relations profession is changing. But the change is not collapse. Transformation is not crisis. Globally, and... Accountability in PR: Reclaiming ownership in a shifting industry
- [Property <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/propertymatters/) - Property-led economic growth leans on government reform South Africa’s property development sector is entering 2026 on firmer ground than it has in several years. However, meaningful growth will depend on decisive government action. According to BPAS Architects director Landseer Collen, this includes a... Housing market brings some stability amid global uncertainty – pre-repo rate comment
- [Mining <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/miningmatters/) - Unlocking opportunity and capital in Africa’s junior mining sector Africa’s junior mining sector continues to present meaningful opportunity, supported by new markets and shifting demand patterns, but investors are no longer funding promise alone and capital for new developments remains constrained. On the second... Jobs promised but never delivered by Dimakatso Sefatsa Workers’ Month in South
- [Media <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/mediamatters/) - Beyond the Headlines: How Personalized News Feeds Shape Our Worldview In today’s digital age, personalized news feeds have become a defining feature of how we consume information. From social media platforms to AI-driven news aggregators, algorithms curate content tailored to our preferences, ensuring we see stories... The Power is Back with the People: The Rise
- [Food <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/foodmatters/) - If you knew what was inside your food, would you still choose it? Every day, millions of South Africans make decisions about what to feed themselves and their families. They compare prices, choose trusted brands, pack lunchboxes, prepare dinners and try to make the best choices they can. But what if the biggest... Farm-to-table gains
- [Law <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/lawmatters/) - The rule of law and competitiveness: Insights for South Africa Author: Ginen Moodley, Moodley Attorneys Inc. What makes an economy competitive? This was a question asked by Arturo Bris, director of the IMD World Competitiveness Center as part of the release of the 2026 “IMD World Competitiveness Booklet”. Bris... Why SA’s delisting is the starting
- [Energy <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/energymatters/) - Africa’s Power Market is Learning to Share Shirley Webber, Coverage Head, Resources & Energy at Absa CIB and Nikhil Kasiram, Resource and Project Finance: Power and Infrastructure at Absa CIB British power developer Gridworks recently signed two landmark agreements with the Government of... Ener-G-Africa Launches 5 Clean Cookstove and Solar Retail Outlets in Zambia Ener-G-Africa (EGA)
- [Construction <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/constructionmatters/) - What to watch for in construction this year Morag Evans, CEO of Databuild In a recent webinar on South Africa’s construction sector, I was struck by how familiar the themes were, and how urgent they have become. The panel covered... How to turn construction payroll challenges into project wins Construction payroll is a mission-critical function
- [Banking <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/bankingmatters3/) - Explore South Africa’s evolving banking sector. Stay updated on fintech innovations, digital banking, and financial technology trends.
- [Health <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/healthmatters/) - Over 100 Residents Receive AI-Powered TB Screening at Cape Town Health Day On Saturday, 16 May, The Impilo Project, a South African NGO delivering healthcare to underserved communities, facilitated a health screening day at Marconi Beam Primary School in Joe Slovo, an informal settlement in Cape Town, South Africa. The... Health Equity Can’t Wait: Why
- [Marketing <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/marketingmatters/) - Marketing Matters Marketing Matters SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER RECENT POPULAR Workplace Matters Why Protecting Financial Talent... Law Matters The rule of law... Finance Matters FPI and Financial Advice... Youth Matters Building Stronger Local Economies... Finance Matters Should Private Placement be... AI Matters When to use AI... Food Matters HEALA Chew On This... AI Matters Enhancing
- [Big Data <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/bigdatamatters/) - Discover how big data is transforming South African businesses. Learn about AI-driven analytics, data science, and business intelligence.
- [Automotive <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/automotivematters/) - Stay informed about South Africa’s automotive industry. Explore car trends, electric vehicles, AI-driven automation, and sustainability.
- [AI UX <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/aiuxmatters/) - Learn how AI is improving UX in South Africa. Explore AI-driven design, user behavior insights, and digital experience optimization.
- [AI Technology <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/aitechnologymatters/) - Stay ahead of AI trends in South Africa. Explore AI’s impact on technology, business, automation, and the future of digital transformation.
- [AI Payments <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/aipaymentsmatters/) - Discover how AI is revolutionizing digital payments in South Africa. Learn about AI-driven fintech, mobile payments, and transaction security.
- [AI Ethics <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/aiethicsmatters/) - Understand the ethical impact of AI in South Africa. Explore discussions on responsible AI, data privacy, and the future of ethical AI practices.
- [AI Education <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/aieducationmatters/) - Explore the role of AI in South African education. Learn about AI-powered learning, EdTech solutions, and the future of digital education.
- [AI Cyber Security <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/aicybermatters/) - Learn how AI is shaping cybersecurity in South Africa. Stay ahead with insights on AI-driven security, cyber threats, and digital protection strategies.
- [Trade<i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/tradematters/) - Energy and freight shocks ripple through SA supply chains Early optimism for economic recovery in 2026 is giving way to renewed pressure, as rising energy costs, freight disruptions and geopolitical tensions weigh on global and South African markets. At the start of the year, expectations were anchored in... Fuel price volatility is creating a new
- [SME <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/smematters/) - Traditional Management Becoming Obsolete as AI Fundamentally Reinvents How Businesses Are Managed Andrew Bizzell, Director of The Productivity Institute A new white paper warns that AI will not simply automate tasks, it will fundamentally reshape the architecture of management itself, forcing SME leaders to develop entirely new capabilities to... To be your best, get the best on
- [Marketing & Eventing Solutions](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/marketing-eventing-solutions/) - Business to business thought leadership and marketing solutions Our approach to B2B marketing In the B2B space, success depends on partnerships built on trust, credibility, and a deep understanding of business needs. At South African Business Matters, we specialize in positioning our clients as industry experts through thought leadership and strategic stakeholder engagement. We help
- [Complimentary SABM access](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/subscribeforfree/) - Complimentary access to South African Business Matters
- [Payment<i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/paymentmatters/) - How can the South African payments ecosystem rebuild its relationship architecture? Don Lange, Partner Manager at Ecentric Payment Systems The South African Reserve Bank’s Payments Ecosystem Modernisation Programme (PEM) is reconfiguring the country’s entire clearing and settlement architecture, with new payment... Cape Town startup Happy Pay raises $5M seed round to scale the first
- [Funding <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/fundingmatters/) - New Report: Private Equity Continues to Lead Private Markets Amid Growing Interest from Private Wealth A new report from Barclays Private Bank has revealed that private equity continues to lead private markets amid growing interest from private wealth investors. The inaugural report, Forging New Paths: How private investors are capitalising on the...
- [Innovation <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/innovationmatters/) - Innovation Matters POPULAR RECENT Workplace Matters Why Protecting Financial Talent Matters More Than Ever in the Age of AI Law Matters The rule of law and competitiveness: Insights for South Africa Finance Matters FPI and Financial Advice New Zealand form international partnership to strengthen financial planning profession Youth Matters Building Stronger Local Economies Through Youth
- [Collaborate With Us](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/write-for-us/) - The mission of South African Business Matters is to foster dialogue and engagement, driving positive change and progress. Contact us today to find out more.
- [Contact Us](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/contact-us/) - Contact Us Marketing and advertising opportunities: partner@southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za Editorial opportunities: contribute@southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za General enquiries: admin@southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Name * First Last Email * Comment or Message * Submit
- [The Industry Verticals](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/the-industry-verticals/) - Industry Verticals We craft solutions for our partners to engage with niche audiences and industries.
- [Pavlo Phitidis](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/pavlo-phitidis/) - Visit Pavlo Website Follow Pavlo on LinkedIn Pavlo Phitidis Investor I Business Growth System Founder I Speaker I Author As an entrepreneur, Pavlo Phitidis cut his teeth in turnaround companies. Then, they spent a few years in M&A, which allowed him to conclude 68 transactions before answering a call of duty in a family business,
- [IoT <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/iotmatters/) - How IoT solutions can drive business growth The Internet of Things (IoT) makes it possible for businesses to run smoother, faster, and smarter. Of course, IoT has been around for quite some time. But more than the traditional routers and tracking units, we believe that accessing customised...
- [Insurance <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/insurancematters/) - Your Car is Smart. Your Thief is Smarter By Tim Chadwick My client Danie. I will not use his real name as he will recognise himself immediately. Anyway, Danie spent R14 000 on vehicle security last year. He has a Ghost immobiliser, a RF tracker, a Faraday pouch, smash and grab film on every... Your
- [Wills <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/willsmatters/) - Draw up a will and secure your family’s future In South Africa, recent data shows that over 70% of working South Africans do not have a valid will, leading to various complications for their loved ones when they pass away. This issue is even more striking considering that 85% of South Africans... Could Have, Should
- [Retirement <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/retirement-matters/) - Moving on? Don’t leave your pension with your old employer By Michael Rossouw, Senior Investment Consultant at 10X Investments When most of us change jobs, we focus on the perks of our new position: a better salary, more benefits or a more senior title. What we often don’t consider is our retirement savings... The six
- [Entrepreneurship Matters In Partnership with Aurik](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/aurik/) - Welcome to the This Week @ Work Series with Aurik Business About Pavlo Phitidis As an entrepreneur, Pavlo Phitidis cut his teeth in turnaround companies. Then, they spent a few years in M&A, which allowed him to conclude 68 transactions before answering a call of duty in a family business, which enabled his parents’ retirement.
- [Get Involved](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/getinvolved/) - Bringing together top journalists, editors, associations, PR professionals & media platforms to drive positive change and progress in our business community.
- [Savings <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/savingsmatters/) - Contribute to South African Business Matters
- [Education <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/educationmatters/) - When to use AI at university – and when not to Featuring insights from Brad Latilla-Campbell, country manager at Crimson Education South Africa’s conversation around AI in education is loud, contested, and far from settled. But while that debate plays out, students applying to international... The glitch in the system : Why SA universities are
- [ESD <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/esdmatters/) - Welcome to Enterprise Supplier Development Matters, a dedicated space at South African Business Matters (SABM) where we focus on the critical role of supplier development in fostering economic growth and sustainability. In South Africa, enterprise supplier development initiatives are pivotal for creating opportunities, driving innovation, and enhancing competitiveness across industries. Join us as we explore
- [Sustainability <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/sustainabilitymatters/) - Sustainability technology encompasses solutions that mitigate environmental impact, promote resource efficiency, and support sustainable development goals. Join us as we delve into the latest advancements, best practices, and transformative technologies shaping sustainability efforts in South Africa and globally. Through insightful articles, expert analyses, case studies, and interviews with sustainability experts and technology leaders, we aim
- [Digital Transformation <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/digitaltransformationmatters/) - Welcome to Digital Transformation Matters, a pivotal space at South African Business Matters (SABM) dedicated to exploring the evolution and impact of digital transformation on businesses and industries. Digital transformation is more than adopting new technologies; it’s a strategic initiative to reimagine processes, enhance customer experiences, and drive innovation. Join us as we delve into
- [Risk <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/riskmatters/) - In the dynamic landscape of business and finance, understanding and mitigating risks are crucial to achieving sustainable growth and resilience. Join us as we examine various types of financial risks, including market risk, credit risk, operational risk, and more. Through insightful articles, expert analyses, practical case studies, and interviews with risk management professionals, we aim
- [Supply Chain <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/supplychainmatters/) - Welcome to Supply Chain Matters, where we explore the intricate dynamics and pivotal strategies that drive efficient and resilient supply chains. From logistics and procurement to risk mitigation and sustainability practices, we delve into the critical components that ensure smooth operations and enhanced business outcomes. Through insightful articles, expert analyses, and real-world case studies, we
- [Safety <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/safetymatters/) - Welcome to Safety Matters, where we prioritize the well-being and security of individuals and organizations alike. We delve into crucial aspects of safety management, from workplace protocols and emergency preparedness to regulatory compliance and industry best practices. Through informative articles, expert insights, and real-world case studies, we empower our readers with the knowledge to cultivate
- [Manufacturing <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/manufacturingmatters/) - Welcome to Manufacturing Matters, where we delve into the heart of industrial production and innovation. From advanced manufacturing technologies and supply chain optimization to sustainability practices and workforce development, we explore the pivotal elements driving modern manufacturing. Through insightful articles, expert analyses, and real-world case studies, we uncover the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping
- [Thank you for subscribing](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/subscribethankyou/) - Please keep an eye on your emails.
- [Thank you for reaching out to us.](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/thankyou/) - We will be in touch shortly!
- [Blockchain Technology <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/blockchaintechnologymatters/) - Transforming Supply Chains: Blockchain Innovations in South Africa In the bustling landscape of South African industries, a technological revolution is underway, reshaping the traditional dynamics of supply chain management. At the forefront of this revolution is blockchain technology, offering a decentralized and...
- [Training and Education <i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/trainingeducationmatters/) - Welcome to Training and Education Matters, an essential focus area at South African Business Matters (SABM) where we highlight the transformative power of training and education in advancing skills, knowledge, and opportunities. Training and education are key pillars for personal development, workforce readiness, and economic growth. Join us as we explore the latest trends, innovations,
- [Industry<i>Matters</i>](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/industrymatters/) - Industry Matters is your gateway to the heart of South Africa’s business landscape at South African Business Matters (SABM). Here, we spotlight the diverse sectors that drive our economy, from manufacturing to finance, energy to agriculture. Through insightful articles, engaging videos, thought-provoking podcasts, and exclusive interviews, we explore the challenges, innovations, and opportunities shaping each
- [SABM Home 2](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/home-copy/) - AI Education Matters AI in Education: Transforming Learning and Teaching in South Africa 12 August, 2024 Workplace Matters Why Protecting Financial Talent Matters More Than Ever in the Age of AI South Africa’s financial sector has long served as a vital gateway for young talent. Banks, insurers, and investment firms have traditionally absorbed the best

## Header Footers

- [footer](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/?elementor-hf=footer) - Follow Us Facebook Icon LinkedIn Icon YouTube Icon © 2026 SABM. All Rights Reserved. Made by AIO Digital
- [header](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/?elementor-hf=header) - 7 August, 2026 Home About Write for us Partner with us Subscribe (it’s free) Narrative 360 Contact us ✕ Home About Write for us Partner with us Subscribe (it’s free) Narrative 360 Contact us ✕ ✕ Industry Matters Agriculture Matters Construction Matters Energy Matters Infrastructure Matters Health Matters Food Matters Law Matters Marketing Matters Media

## Templates

- [Default](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/feed-templates/default/)

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/uncategorized/)
- [Mining Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/mining/)
- [Investment Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/investment-matters/)
- [Money Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/money-matters/)
- [SME Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/sme-matters/)
- [Entrepreneurship Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/entrepreneurship-matters/)
- [ESG Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/esg-matters/)
- [Leadership Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/leadership-matters/)
- [Management Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/management-matters/)
- [Marketing Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/marketing-matters/)
- [Government Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/government-matters/)
- [Youth Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/youth-matters/)
- [Technology Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/technology-matters/)
- [HR Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/hr-matters/)
- [Health Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/health-matters/)
- [Supply Chain Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/supply-chain-matters/)
- [Law Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/law-matters/)
- [Education Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/education-matters/)
- [Development Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/development-matters/)
- [Safety Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/safety-matters/)
- [Insurance Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/insurance-matters/)
- [Innovation Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/innovation-matters/)
- [Infrastructure Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/infrastructure-matters/)
- [Construction Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/construction-matters/)
- [Transport Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/transport-matters/)
- [Water Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/water-matters/)
- [Workplace Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/workplace-matters/)
- [Energy Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/energy-matters/)
- [Tourism Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/tourism-matters/)
- [Property Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/property-matters/)
- [Heala](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/heala/)
- [Food Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/food-matters/)
- [E-Commerce Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/e-commerce-matters/)
- [Finance Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/finance-matters/)
- [Automotive Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/automotive-matters/)
- [Saving Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/saving-matters/)
- [Risk Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/risk-matters/)
- [Business Banking Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/business-banking-matters/)
- [Trade Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/trade-matters/)
- [CRM Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/crm-matters/)
- [UX Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/ux-matters/)
- [Cyber Security Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/cyber-security-matters/)
- [AI Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/ai-matters/)
- [IoT Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/iot-matters/)
- [Cloud Computing Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/cloud-computing-matters/)
- [Digital Transformation Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/digital-transformation-matters/)
- [Blockchain Technology Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/blockchain-technology-matters/)
- [Climate Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/climate-matters/)
- [Training & Education Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/training-education-matters/)
- [Workplace Wellness Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/workplace-wellness-matters/)
- [Women Matter](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/women-matter/)
- [SME Matters in Partnership with Aurik](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/aurik/)
- [PR Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/pr-matters/)
- [Retirement Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/retirement-matters/)
- [Wills Matter](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/wills-matter/)
- [Media Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/media-matters/)
- [Legal Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/legal-matters/)
- [Inclusion Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/inclusion-matters/)
- [Mental Health Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/mental-health-matters/)
- [Payment Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/payment-matters/)
- [Funding Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/funding-matters/)
- [Retail Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/retail-matters/)
- [ZTH](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/zth/)
- [ZMH](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/zmh/)
- [ZBH](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/zbh/)
- [AI Media Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/ai-media-matters/)
- [AI Payments Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/ai-payments-matters/)
- [AI Education Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/ai-education-matters/)
- [AI Cyber Security Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/ai-cyber-security-matters/)
- [AI Technology Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/ai-technology-matters/)
- [AI UX Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/ai-ux-matters/)
- [AI Ethics Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/ai-ethics-matters/)
- [Banking Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/banking-matters/)
- [Agriculture Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/agriculture-matters/)
- [Quickfire Q&A](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/quickfire-qa/)
- [Personal Finance Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/personal-finance-matters/)
- [ZWN](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/zwn/)
- [FMCG Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/fmcg-matters/)
- [CSI Matters](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/category/csi-matters/)

## Tags

- [cybersecurity](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/tag/cybersecurity/)
- [renewable energy](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/tag/renewable-energy/)
- [AI](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/tag/ai/)
- [Blockchain](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/tag/blockchain/)
- [Supply chain](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/tag/supply-chain/)
- [mining](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/tag/mining/)
- [YouthMatters Downloadable](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/tag/youthmatters-downloadable/)
- [YouthMatters Resources](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/tag/youthmatters-resources/)
- [Entrepreneurship Matters Downloadables](https://www.southafricanbusinessmatters.co.za/tag/entrepreneurship-matters-downloadables/)