| THE DODGY ETHICS OF WHISTLEBLOWING TO DAMAGE REPUTATIONS |
Retail groups are increasingly finding themselves in the spotlight as disgruntled insiders leak allegations of unethical conduct, with recent examples including Woolworths and the “Chuckles” saga, as well as fresh claims involving Spar and alleged tax irregularities. While such disclosures often generate public outrage and reputational damage, they frequently omit key context or commercial detail. In Spar’s case, the group has dismissed the tax manipulation allegations as baseless and misleading, insisting that no fraud has been established. Industry observers note that whistleblower claims do not always reflect systemic wrongdoing or the full operational reality.
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| COMMUNICATING BETTER FOR A HAPPIER WORKPLACE |
Trainer Sandra Nel (2nd right) sharing a light moment with participants at yesterday's business skills training session on communication in the workplace. Pic by Lethiwe Zondi.
Representatives from a range of industries recently participated in a workplace communication workshop at the Pietermaritzburg and Midlands Chamber of Business aimed at strengthening collaboration in increasingly diverse business environments. Presented by communication coach Sandra Nel, the programme focused on improving clarity, active listening, emotional intelligence and constructive feedback.
Participants explored common communication barriers, the role of empathy and tone, and strategies for managing difficult conversations professionally. The training highlighted how effective communication can improve teamwork, reduce workplace conflict and foster a culture of trust and respect.
Click here for the business skills programme. |
| READERS POLL: CALLING TIME ON CHILD ACCESS TO SOCIAL MEDIA? |
The tilt towards limiting children’s access to social media reflects the concern of countries across the world about the impact on mental health on young users, and the dangers of AI-powered tech, specifically ChatGPT. Most recently, Malaysia has joined Australia, Brazil and Indonesia to introduce age-based restrictions or requirements for children’s access to social media, while Britain, France, Spain, Denmark, Thailand and South Korea are mooting similar measures. What do our readers think, should socal media screen time be limited, or is that an overreach? Please click on this link for a short survey, we’ll report the outcome tomorrow.
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1966: US senator Robert Kennedy made a controversial visit to South Africa at the invitation of the National Union of South African Students to deliver the Annual Day of Affirmation Speech at the University of Cape Town.
Elsewhere, in 1984, Bruce Springsteen released Born in the U.S.A, one of his defining albums.
It's World Day for Assistive Technology in aid of people using wheelchairs, hearing aids and glasses. |
SOUTH AFRICAN EXPORTS BACK ON TRUMP'S TARIFF AGENDA
The United States is considering a new round of tariffs of at least 10% to 12.5% on imports from about 60 trading partners, including South Africa, as part of a broader enforcement drive linked to forced labour concerns.
Products from major economies such as China, India, Japan, South Korea, Brazil and Switzerland could face a 12.5% levy, while others, including Canada, Mexico, the EU and the UK, would face lower rates. The Office of the US Trade Representative says the differentiation reflects compliance with forced labour prohibitions.
The proposal follows investigations under Section 301 of the Trade Act. Public hearings are set for July 7 before any final decision is taken. The move is a major step in Trump’s push to reinstate the tariffs before they were deemed unconstitutional. (SOURCE: BDLive/News24/Bloomberg)
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AGING MEMBERSHIPS PUSH MEDICAL AID SCHEMES TO BRINK
South Africa’s medical schemes are facing mounting financial pressure as ageing memberships and rising healthcare costs drive up claims. Industry data shows claims utilisation increasing steadily, with some restricted schemes now paying out more in benefits than they collect in contributions. Older members typically require more frequent and expensive healthcare interventions, while medical inflation continues to outpace general consumer inflation. The trend is eroding reserves and placing pressure on scheme solvency levels, raising concerns about future contribution increases. Healthcare providers are also feeling the impact, with slower patient growth expected as affordability challenges intensify. Industry leaders warn that without younger members joining schemes, long-term sustainability could come under increasing strain. (SOURCE: Moneyweb)
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40% BUSINESS LEADERS FEAR CYBER RISK ON AI SURGE
Cyber-risk has surged to the top of the global business agenda, with 40% of business leaders saying it is the risk they are least prepared for, up from 23% in 2025, according to BDO’s Global Risk Landscape 2026 report based on a survey of 500 C-suite executives, including South African respondents. The study shows 80% of leaders believe the global risk environment is now defined by crisis, while 68% say the speed of disruption is increasing. Only 9% describe risk management as highly proactive, down from 19% last year. AI adoption is rising, but governance gaps and geopolitical pressures continue to intensify overall corporate exposure. (SOURCE: Engineering News)
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DURBAN LAUNCHES PRIVATE-SECTOR SHIPPING FORUM
A new private-sector maritime forum, the Durban Shipping Chamber, has been launched in Durban to provide a unified business voice and drive investment and deal flow in South Africa’s shipping sector. Established by the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the initiative will be led by Durand Richard Naidoo, CEO of Linsen Nambi, and aligns with the country’s Comprehensive Maritime Transport Policy. The chamber aims to fill a gap in commercially focused maritime coordination, complementing existing structures such as the Durban Port Forum and eThekwini Maritime Cluster. It will also support SME participation and strengthen competitiveness across the maritime value chain. (SOURCE: FreightNews)
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TONGAAT RESCUE KEY TO BIOFUEL FUTURE
Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Trade, Industry and Competition has warned that the future of Tongaat Hulett remains a critical risk to South Africa’s sugar industry recovery, calling for urgent government and private-sector cooperation to avoid liquidation. Chairperson Mzwandile Masina said an enabling biofuels regulatory framework, similar to Brazil and India, is essential to support diversification and long-term sustainability. The committee was briefed on progress under the Sugar Value Chain Master Plan, which has lifted local sugar sales to 1.55 million tons from 1.25 million tons and increased local procurement to 98%. However, it flagged import pressures, funding gaps, and ongoing uncertainty around Tongaat as major threats to industry stability. (SOURCE: Engineering News)
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TREASURY CALLS TIME ON MUNICIPAL FINANCE RESCUE
Deputy Finance Minister Ashor Sarupen says National Treasury cannot act as the financial manager of failing municipalities, warning that local governments must take responsibility for restoring their own financial health. Speaking on the growing debt crisis facing many councils, Sarupen said withholding equitable share allocations may provide short-term pressure but is not a sustainable solution for heavily indebted municipalities. He stressed the need for stronger governance, improved revenue collection and better financial management at local level. The warning comes as several municipalities struggle with mounting debt, deteriorating services and recurring audit failures, placing increasing strain on public finances. (SOURCE: BDLive)
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EX-RAF CEO FACES CRIMINAL CHARGES
Parliament’s Standing Committee on Public Accounts (Scopa) has voted to lay a criminal charge against former Road Accident Fund CEO Collins Letsoalo after he failed to appear before the committee despite a formal summons linked to its inquiry into the RAF. The decision, passed by eight votes to three, authorises the Secretary to Parliament to proceed with laying the charge under the Powers and Privileges Act. Scopa chair Songezo Zibi said Letsoalo ignored repeated summons attempts, including sheriff service, WhatsApp and SMS notifications, and publicly dismissed the committee’s authority. Zibi said allowing non-compliance would undermine parliamentary oversight powers. The National Prosecuting Authority may ultimately decide whether to prosecute. (SOURCE: Moneyweb)
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... AND SPECIAL TRIBUNAL ORDERS R25 MILLION LOTTERY REPAYMENT
The Special Tribunal has ordered that nearly R25 million in National Lotteries Commission funds, linked to a fake 2016 Rio Olympics “roadshow” project, must be repaid after it was siphoned through a network of entities and individuals. The funding, approved within days of application by Sascoc on behalf of the Mshandukani Foundation, was found to have been diverted to accounts linked to former NLC officials, including former chief operating officer Phillemon Letwaba,and associated businesses. Judge Brian Mashile declared the grant unlawful and set aside the award, ruling that all respondents, except those whose identities were stolen, were complicit in the scheme and must repay the funds. (SOURCE: GroundUp)
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CANAL+ IMPRESSES WITH JSE TRADING DEBUT
French media group Canal+ began trading on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange yesterday, marking a significant expansion into South African capital markets following its acquisition of MultiChoice. The company, which retains its primary listing on the London Stock Exchange, is now listed in the JSE’s media sector under the radio and television broadcasters subsector. Early trading saw Canal+ (CNP) change hands at around R58.50 per share, closely tracking its debut listing price. The secondary listing is expected to deepen investor access to the group and broaden its African exposure as it integrates MultiChoice operations and competes in a rapidly evolving global pay-TV and streaming market. (SOURCE: BDLive)
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HYUNDAI RECALLS 337 TUCSONS OVER SAFETY WORRIES
Hyundai has issued a safety recall for its Tucson N Line models sold in South Africa in 2023, affecting 337 vehicles. The recall forms part of a global quality control exercise aimed at addressing potential safety-related defects identified by the manufacturer. Owners of the affected vehicles are being contacted to arrange inspections and necessary repairs at authorised dealerships at no cost. Hyundai has urged customers to respond promptly to ensure vehicle safety and maintain roadworthiness standards. The company says the recall is precautionary and is focused on preventing potential mechanical or safety risks on affected models. (SOURCE: Engineering News) |
OIL ON THE RISE AS US-IRAN TENSIONS FLARE
Oil prices extended gains for a third consecutive session as renewed US-Iran military exchanges raised concerns over Middle East stability and the security of crude flows through the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude rose above $98 a barrel, up about 7% for the week, after US forces intercepted Iranian missiles and conducted retaliatory strikes. Market sentiment swung sharply amid conflicting signals over a possible peace deal, with President Donald Trump expressing optimism while reports suggested diplomatic talks remain uncertain. Analysts say heightened volatility is driving cautious trading, with fears that prolonged conflict could disrupt exports and force greater reliance on global crude inventories. (SOURCE: Bloomberg)
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INDUSTRY NETWORKING MEETING
The PMCB Team invites you to an INDUSTRY NETWORKING MEETING At BELGOTEX CARPETS
DATE: 11 June 2026
THE MEETING STARTS AT 15h00 – 17h00
VENUE: 20 Chesterfield Road, Willowton, Pietermaritzburg, 3201
Due to limited space, a maximum of two people per company will be permitted to attend. |
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Education is a progressive discovery of our own ignorance.
Will Durant |
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| Dollar | R16.32
| + 0.27% | | Pound | R21.90
| + 0.05% | | Euro | R18.94
| + 0.10% | | Yen | 0.102068 |
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These rates are correct at time of going to press. | | Platinum | $ 1 880.71
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