| NEW 'RUSHED' BILL TACKLES FOREIGN WORKER CONCERNS |
The proposed Employment Services Amendment Bill appears to be aimed at easing tensions around foreign workers by introducing clearer rules for their employment. While framed as a labour-market intervention rather than an anti-xenophobia measure, the new provisions seek to regulate the hiring of foreign nationals, improve compliance and address perceptions that migrants are displacing local workers in a new chapter that replaces Sections 8 and 9 of the ESA.
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| EARLY-BIRD INCENTIVES FOR ONLINE VISIBILITY IN BUSINESS DIRECTORY |
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Developers Dolly Mital (left) and Ashika Kumar working on the WOLA site.
Meet WOLA, a newly-launched online visibility platform and business directory, and a new member of the Pietermaritzburg and Midlands Chamber of Business.
The platform, owned and operated by Afro Global Technologies, offers local businesses an online business profile with multiple subsections, which can function as a mini website or be used to amplify the messaging and information on an existing website. These profile pages are much more comprehensive, useful, and effective than typical business directories, said Salesh Singh on behalf of WOLA.
“After creating a profile, your business will automatically be added to the easy-to-use category-based directory, so customers can find you.”
WOLA is currently in an initial beta phase, while site features and tools are tested and refined. “If you sign up now, you will be able to use the website completely free until the end of beta, and for two months after the full-featured version launches,” said Singh.
The beta phase will last until the end of July. After that, membership will cost R199 pm, and new signups will get a one-month free trial. To find out more about WOLA and how to sign up, visit their website.
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| IT'S (ALMOST) TIME FOR THE ZANY OVER-THE-TOP RELAY |
The O.T.T. Relay 2026 is calling on teams to embrace a wildly fun, over-the-top spirit at Maritzburg College on Friday, 19 June. Organised by the Pietermaritzburg and Midlands Chamber of Business, the event promises “the most fun you can have while working.” Entry costs R650 per team of six, with registration starting at 2 pm for the 4 pm start. Participants are encouraged to dress in bold, zany costumes - think bright wigs, wild socks and outrageous outfits - while enjoying a relaxed, non-competitive course filled with quirky stops and surprises. The event is designed for families, colleagues and friends to prioritise laughter, creativity and community over fitness, making it a colourful celebration of participation rather than performance. Contact Heidi on (033) 345 2747 or at pmcb@pmcb.org.za,
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1982: Newspaper proprietors and editors of all the main South African newspapers, both English and Afrikaans, unanimously opposed legislation on media control.
Elsewhere, in 1999, the Kosovo War ended when Serbian president Slobodan Milošević withdrew his troops after a massive NATO bombing campaign.
On a sober note, today is observed as Alcoholics Anonymous Founder’s Day. |
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'FRAGILE' Q1 2026 GROWTH CATCHES MARKETS BY SURPRISE
South Africa’s economy surprised analysts by growing about 0.5% in Q1 2026, outperforming forecasts that had clustered closer to 0.2%–0.3%, according to early market expectations. Growth of 0.5% nevertheless reflects fragile underlying conditions despite six consecutive quarters of expansion. The economy benefited mainly from agriculture, which rose 3.9%, while nine of 10 sectors recorded growth. However, most gains were below 1.0%, with manufacturing contracting 0.8% for a second straight quarter while investment (gross fixed capital formation) fell 1.1%, signalling ongoing weakness in capital formation. Mining edged up 0.7% and construction 0.2%, underscoring weak momentum across key industries. Analysts warn that rising fuel costs, inflation pressures and global disruption linked to the Iran conflict could further weaken growth prospects for the remainder of the year, despite recent credit rating improvements and cautious optimism. (SOURCE: Daily Maverick/BDLive)
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... AS REVISED BENEFICIATION MEASURES WEIGH ON MINING
South African mining sector is under renewed pressure following fresh beneficiation proposals aimed at increasing local processing of raw minerals before export. The policy shift seeks to capture more value domestically by requiring greater downstream refinement of resources such as platinum, manganese, and iron ore. Industry stakeholders warn that stricter beneficiation rules could raise operating costs, reduce export competitiveness, and deter investment if not carefully structured. Supporters argue the measures could boost industrialisation, job creation, and local manufacturing capacity. While no final regulations have been confirmed, the proposals are already reshaping expectations around mining profitability and long-term strategy in South Africa’s resource sector. (SOURCE: News24)
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... AND BATTERY MINERALS ADDED TO AUTOMOTIVE LOCAL CONTENT
South Africa plans to extend its automotive incentive programme to include key minerals used in electric vehicle battery production, aiming to strengthen local manufacturing and support the shift to electric mobility. The proposal, outlined by the International Trade Administration Commission, would add materials such as lithium, graphite, copper, cobalt, iron and rare earths to the list of qualifying inputs. These would be sourced mainly from the Southern African Customs Union and SADC region, with 50% of their value counted as local content for incentives. The move aligns with the Automotive Master Plan 2035 targeting 1.4 million vehicles annually and deeper localisation of supply chains. (SOURCE: Reuters)
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ESKOM GREEN TARGETS INDUSTRIAL RENEWABLE ENERGY
Eskom has launched Eskom Green, a new energy proposition aimed at accelerating the rollout of renewable power to South Africa’s mining and manufacturing sectors. The initiative seeks to help energy-intensive industries secure cleaner electricity supplies while supporting the country’s transition to a lower-carbon economy. The launch comes as renewable energy deployment has lagged behind demand from businesses seeking reliable and sustainable power sources. Eskom Green is expected to leverage the utility’s infrastructure and expertise to facilitate renewable energy projects, improve energy security and help industrial customers meet environmental, social and governance commitments. (SOURCE: BDLive)
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NEW BIRD FLU VACCINATION MODEL TO SPARE MASS CULLING
South Africa has approved a new vaccination framework allowing poultry producers to inoculate flocks against highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), marking a major shift from mass culling to disease prevention. The policy, supported by Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen, follows pressure from the South African Poultry Association after repeated outbreaks and rising production losses. Previously, infected and healthy birds were destroyed under the “stamping-out” model, driving up costs and food prices. The new system combines vaccination, biosecurity and testing to reduce losses and stabilise supply. Industry stakeholders say it strengthens food security, protects jobs and aligns with global best practice in managing avian influenza outbreaks. (SOURCE: Reuters)
See below: Chicken-chomping Hungry Lion targets 450 new stores |
RECORD CASH IN CIRCULATION BUT TRANSACTIONS DECLINE
South Africa is experiencing record levels of physical cash in circulation, with the total amount now more than seven times higher than in 2000, according to financial sector estimates. However, despite the surge in cash volumes, its use in everyday transactions is steadily declining as digital payments accelerate across the economy. Consumers are increasingly using cards, mobile wallets and instant transfers for convenience and security, reshaping retail behaviour. Cash still plays a vital role in informal trade and among lower-income households. Analysts say the trend reflects a structural shift toward a digital payments economy, although concerns remain about financial inclusion and access for those without banking services as infrastructure modernises nationwide. Policy makers face balancing inclusion and innovation pressures ongoing. (SOURCE: News24)
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... AS PRIVATE LABELS LOSE OUT TO LEGACY BRANDS
Private label products are losing market share in South Africa despite pressure on household budgets, according to NielsenIQ data showing unexpected shifts in fast-moving consumer goods behaviour. South Africa consumers spent about R173.6 billion on FMCG in Q1 2026, with overall sales value up 6.5% and unit volumes rising 9.1%. However, private label sales reached only R26.7 billion, growing just 1.3%, while share slipped by 1.1 percentage points. Traditional trade, including spaza shops and independent outlets, generated R43.1 billion, reshaping retail dynamics. Analysts say shoppers are shifting toward smaller, frequent purchases and national brands rather than supermarket house brands, reflecting changing cash flow patterns and stronger informal retail influence. (SOURCE: Moneyweb) |
AVBOB CYBERATTACK RAISES DATA RISKS
AVBOB has become the target of a cyberattack, raising concerns over data security in South Africa’s insurance and funeral services sector. The incident highlights growing exposure of major service providers to ransomware and hacking attempts as digital systems become more integrated into core operations. While details of the breach remain limited, early indications suggest attempts to compromise sensitive customer information and internal systems. The attack underscores escalating cybersecurity risks facing financial and mutual organisations, particularly those managing large volumes of personal data. Industry observers warn that such incidents could prompt stronger regulatory scrutiny and increased investment in digital defence infrastructure across the sector. (SOURCE: News24)
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CHICKEN-CHOMPING HUNGRY LION TARGETS 750 NEW STORES
Hungry Lion plans to expand aggressively across the continent, targeting about 750 stores as rising demand for affordable chicken meals fuels growth in Africa’s quick-service restaurant market. The chain, founded in 1997 as a subsidiary of the Shoprite Group before being spun off into a private business, operates all restaurants as corporate-owned and managed outlets. The expansion strategy focuses on high-traffic urban and peri-urban locations, aiming to scale rapidly while maintaining centralised control of operations. Analysts say the growth reflects strong demand for low-cost protein and rising urbanisation across African markets. (SOURCE: News24) |
JETOUR'S OPAQUE TV AD MAKES REGULATOR SEE RED
The Advertising Regulatory Board (ARB) has upheld a consumer complaint against a television advertisement by Jetour, ruling that crucial details of a vehicle finance offer were not adequately disclosed. The complainant argued that the advert for the Jetour Dashing highlighted attractive monthly repayments but failed to explain material conditions attached to the deal. The ARB found that while advertisements cannot be expected to include every contractual term, key information affecting a consumer’s decision should have been presented clearly and concisely. The ruling underscores the need for transparency in vehicle finance marketing and consumer protection against potentially misleading promotions. (SOURCE: Moneyweb) |
ZIMBABWE TO AMPLIFY AFRICAN AGENDA AT UN SECURITY COUNCIL.
Zimbabwe has secured a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for a two-year term beginning in January 2027, strengthening Africa’s representation in global decision-making. Zimbabwe was elected alongside Austria, Kyrgyzstan, Portugal and Trinidad and Tobago. The council, whose permanent members are United States, United Kingdom, France, Russia and China, is the only UN body empowered to impose sanctions and authorise force. Zimbabwe replaces Somalia, giving Africa a stronger platform to influence international peace, security and economic stability debates. (SOURCE: Bizcommunity)
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OIL PRICES TAKE A BREATHER ON SOFTER WAR NOISES
Brent crude for August settlement fell about 0.8% to $93.48 a barrel as markets reacted to easing tensions between Israel and Iran following an agreement to halt further attacks. The price movement followed earlier volatility triggered by conflict escalation that had threatened Middle East supply flows. West Texas Intermediate also traded near $90 a barrel, reflecting lingering geopolitical risk despite a fragile ceasefire. Concerns remain over the Strait of Hormuz, where disruptions continue to restrict oil and gas shipments. Analysts note that supply uncertainty, damaged infrastructure, and intermittent hostilities are keeping oil markets highly sensitive to headlines, with prices still elevated by historical standards. (SOURCE: Bloomberg) |
... AS GOLD SLUMPS BELOW $4 200 ON FLARING TENSIONS
Gold fell sharply below $4 200 per ounce, dropping about 2% to $4 176.89 as renewed clashes between the United States and Iran disrupted fragile ceasefire expectations. The decline followed US strikes near the Strait of Hormuz after escalation in attacks that threatened global energy supply routes. Despite brief oil rebounds pushing inflation fears higher, gold weakened as investors priced in the possibility of tighter US monetary policy and higher interest rates. The metal has now fallen roughly 20% below pre-conflict levels, with technical selling triggered after slipping under its 200-day moving average. Analysts warn further downside toward $4 100 if rate pressures persist. (SOURCE: Bloomberg)
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| Dollar | R16.51 | + 0.12% | | Pound | R22.10
| - 0.21% | | Euro | R19.08 | - 0.10% | | Yen | 0.103015 |
| | Yuan | R2.43 | + 0.03% | | Bitcoin | $ 61 504.67
| - 0.39% |
These rates are correct at time of going to press. | | Platinum | $ 1 679.50
| - 2.67% | | Gold | $ 4 198.73
| - 1.43% | | Oil | $ 91.52
| + 0.34% | | All Share | 110 534.33
| - 0.54% | | Repo | 7.00 | | | Prime | 10.50 | |
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