| IS RESILIENT RAND’S RECENT RALLY TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE? |
| ELEVATING SPREADSHEET SKILLS TO THE NEXT LEVEL |
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Trainer Nomcebo Shabalala of IT Certification Academy (back, standing) with the large group of attendees at the advanced course on MS Excel.
Participants versed in the foundational aspects of MS Excel advanced their spreadsheet knowledge and skills by attending a Level 2 training session at the Pietermaritzburg and Midlands Chamber of Business recently. Part of the business skills programme, the Level 2 course equipped participants with the tools to manage and analyse complex datasets more effectively for informed decision-making in modern organizations. Participants explored advanced functions including logical, date/time, and text functions before tackling the techniques for sorting, filtering and querying data, and summarising information using subtotals and outlines.
Next up, participants created and modified tables and applied conditional formatting to identify trends and exceptions in datasets. The PivotTable and PivotChart modules allowed participants to create interactive reports to summarize and visualize data, while the use of slicers and timelines filtered large datasets with ease. The training concluded with best practices for managing workbooks, including organising worksheets, customising views, and setting workbook properties for better version control and collaboration.
Click here for the 2025 business skills programme. |
| BEWARE THE DUMBIING DOWN POWERS OF CHATGPT |
| Is ChatGPT making us mentally lazy? A new MIT Media Lab study suggests it might be. Researchers found that participants using ChatGPT to write SAT-style essays showed the lowest brain activity and engagement compared to those using Google or writing unaided. Over time, ChatGPT users relied more on copy-paste, raising fresh concerns about the chatbot’s long-term impact on critical thinking and cognitive effort. |
1995: Maritzburg College old boy Joel Stransky slotted the drop goal for the Springboks to beat New Zealand in the Rugby World Cup final.
Elsewhere, in 2002, Africa's worst ever rail disaster killed 281 when a train rolled back down a hill after its brakes had failed, near Msagali, Tanzania.
Believers in other-worldly realms are celebrating International Fairy Day and also UFO Day.
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BANKS STARE DOWN R60 BILLION LAWSUIT OVER UNLAWFUL HOME SALES
A R60 billion class action lawsuit against South Africa’s major banks is set for February 2026, with hundreds of former homeowners alleging their properties were unlawfully repossessed and auctioned off for far below market value. Cited banks include Absa, Nedbank, Standard Bank and FirstRand. The suit seeks compensation for over 100 000 homes lost since 1994.
Applicants claim the practice violated constitutional rights, while banks insist repossession is a last resort. The court will first determine whether the case qualifies as a class action. Consumer activists and rights groups argue these foreclosures mirror apartheid-era forced removals, demanding accountability and systemic reform. (SOURCE: Moneyweb)
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… AS COURT SLAMS ABSA’S ACCOUNTING CHAOS IN R6.7 MILLION LOAN
The Johannesburg High Court has slammed Absa for accounting “disarray” and dismissed its attempt to repossess a property over a disputed R6.7 million loan. Judge NS Kruger said the matter, riddled with conflicting bank statements, could have been resolved through mediation instead of court. Absa admitted to statement errors and failed to prove contract cancellation. The case now goes to trial. Consumer experts warn borrowers not to blindly trust bank calculations, noting that inaccurate interest rates, misapplied fees, and overstated arrears are common. The ruling underscores the importance of transparency and fairness in banking, especially when repossession is considered. (SOURCE: Moneyweb) |
… AND CAPITEC STRIKES GOLD WITH UNSECURED CAR LOANS
Capitec Bank has surpassed R1.1 billion in vehicle loan disbursements, marking a 350% year-on-year increase. Launched in 2020, its vehicle finance product is now available at over 1 100 dealerships, including WeBuyCars outlets. Unlike traditional bank vehicle loans, Capitec’s are unsecured “purpose loans,” paid directly to dealers, reducing default risks. Interest rates are more competitive than standard personal loans, generally under 20%. Loan terms stretch up to 84 months, with values capped at R500 000. Capitec has also rolled out similar products for home improvements and education, with direct payments to merchants and institutions, reinforcing its position in alternative consumer credit markets. (SOURCE: Moneyweb) |
SHOPPERS TIGHTEN PURSES AS Q2 2025 RETAIL CONFIDENCE SLIPS
Retailer confidence in South Africa fell from 50% to 42% in Q2 2025, according to the BER Retail Survey, reflecting weaker business conditions and slowing sales growth. Although still slightly above the long-term average of 40%, confidence declined across several retail segments. Durable and semi-durable goods retailers saw mixed sentiment, with furniture retailers remaining optimistic. New vehicle dealer confidence also dropped, despite May sales rising 30% year-on-year. Wholesaler sentiment improved, yet consumer goods volumes fell sharply - possibly signaling future demand pressure. The BER noted easing inflation and oil prices could support spending, but VAT and fuel levy fears may dampen consumer confidence. (SOURCE: Engineering News) |
R27.5 BILLION WORLD BANK LOAN TO UNPLUG INFRASTRUCTURE BOTTLENECKS
South Africa has secured a R27.2 billion ($1.5 billion) loan from the World Bank to address urgent infrastructure challenges, particularly in energy and freight transport. The National Treasury confirmed that the loan offers favourable interest rates and flexible repayment terms aligned with the country’s fiscal strategy. The 16-year loan, with a three-year grace period, will support structural reforms aimed at unlocking bottlenecks, boosting economic growth, and improving service delivery. It also forms part of broader efforts to enhance energy security, modernise Transnet’s freight services, and advance a low-carbon economy - key enablers of job creation and long-term development under Operation Vulindlela. (SOURCE: Moneyweb) |
… AS PIC INKS HIGH-IMPACT UK INVESTMENT DEAL FOR AFRICA
The Public Investment Corporation (PIC) and British International Investment (BII) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to boost investment across Africa. The partnership will focus on high-impact sectors such as agriculture, financial services, infrastructure, and climate initiatives. The two institutions will collaborate on debt, equity, and fund investments, using blended finance models to unlock capital for development. BII, with a $5.6 billion (about R100 billion) African portfolio, and PIC aim to drive industrialisation and trade. UK High Commissioner Antony Phillipson welcomed the deal as a major step in strengthening UK-South Africa economic ties and expanding Africa’s access to impactful, growth-focused investments. (SOURCE: Moneyweb) |
CONTAINER PORTS REVAMP PAYS OFF CITRUS EXPORTS SOAR
Durban’s port operations are showing signs of improvement, with Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) reporting progress at its container terminals. In May, the Ngqura, Port Elizabeth, and Cape Town terminals exceeded 80% compliance with shipping agreements. Durban’s Container Terminals Pier 1 and Pier 2 improved to 100% and 50% compliance, respectively, by mid-June. TPT CEO Jabu Mdaki says performance gains and zero vessel backlogs reflect ongoing recovery efforts. Despite weather delays, refrigerated container volumes rose 5% year-on-year, driven by strong citrus exports. Mdaki emphasised Transnet’s goal of boosting competitiveness through infrastructure gains like Berth 108 and new ship-to-shore cranes. (SOURCE: Engineering News) |
SAB TO SCRUM DOWN WITH SA RUGBY IN 5-YEAR BOKTOWN DEAL
The South African Breweries (SAB) has signed a five-year deal with SA Rugby to become the exclusive event delivery partner for all SA Rugby events. The partnership aims to enhance match-day fan experiences and expand rugby’s reach through Castle Lager’s Boktown viewing platforms. SAB CEO Richard Rivett-Carnac says the collaboration reflects a commitment to national pride and greater rugby access. SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer praised the deal for deepening ties and improving fan engagement. Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie hailed it as a strong endorsement of South African sport’s role in unity and upliftment. (SOURCE: Moneyweb) |
VISION SUGAR RISES FROM TONGAAT ASHES
Rising from the ashes of Tongaat Hulett, new African-led agribusiness Vision Sugar has launched a stakeholder roadshow across South Africa, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Botswana. Formed through the acquisition of Tongaat’s distressed assets, Vision Sugar aims to stabilise operations and foster inclusive, African-owned growth. Backed by the Vision Consortium, it employs over 15 000 people and retains well-known brands like Huletts and Hippo Valley. With a focus on mill readiness, farmer engagement, and rural economic upliftment, Vision Sugar promises a disciplined, transparent approach to modernising the sugar value chain. Leaders hail the move as a reset for African agriculture, anchored in local ownership and development. (SOURCE: Engineering News) |
RURAL UNDERCOUNT POINTS TO HIGHER 8.2 BILLION GLOBAL POPULATION
A new study suggests global population estimates - currently pegged at 8.2 billion - may significantly undercount rural populations, potentially skewing decades of research and resource planning. Scientists from Finland’s Aalto University compared population data from 300 rural dam relocations across 35 countries with global datasets and found undercounts of 53% to 84% in rural areas. These localized, compensation-linked counts revealed far more people than official records show. If confirmed, such discrepancies could reshape policies on infrastructure, health, and aid. However, experts remain skeptical, warning that claims of billions more people challenge years of trusted data and require far more evidence before being accepted. (SOURCE: Popular Mechanics) |
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The PMCB welcomes the following new members:
Eticks – Online bookshop selling industry specific literature – 069 924 7963
Mayoyo-Kopano – Commercial and residential properties – 067 040 1073
Soulvae – Nlp life coaching, magic mapping, employee engagement, team development, TFH balances, deep tissue massage, laser therapy and ECG – 084 407 1107
iOCO - Temporary Employment Services, Independent Contractor Management, Workforce Management, Functional Outsourcing, Payroll software and outsourcing, Outsourced legal services, Learning & Development (skills development facilitation, learnerships, BBBEE, EE and SDF consulting services, Disability Management and verification, vetting and business crime prevention/ investigation solutions – 071 875 9356
Van Zyl, Rudd & Associates – Consulting on labour law and employee relations – 041 373 4322 Rotal Project Consulting - Metal manufacturing & Fabrication. Welding & welding repair. Mechanical engineering services. General painting. Refurbishment & painting of plant machinery & equipment. Powder coating. Specialized cleaning. Replacement of windscreen/glass to industrial plant machinery – 063 527 3240
Corporate Health and Wellness – The Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) is a service contract between Corporate Health and Wellness and companies offering access to confidential therapeutic services – 072 852 2726
Drakensberg Boys Choir School – School - +27 364681012
Redfern Inc – Legal services – 033 205 0632
Leapfrog Business Innovation – specialist consulting firm that helps businesses in agriculture, mining and manufacturing improve performance through innovation, supply chain optimization and digital transformation – 082 907 8077
Laera Opia Transformation Academy – Personal and professional coaching, skills development training and facilitation, mediation and conflict resolution, assessment and moderation – 073 844 4322
SDA Consultants – All categories of insurance – medical aid, employee benefits, funeral cover, life cover and pensions – 033 342 4161
Triplo4 Sustainable Solutions – Environmental services – environmental impact assessments, water use license applications, professional services exchange, strategic partnerships, permitting support, ISO implementation, sustainability strategy, green business advisory and waste management services – 032 946 3213
To find out more about chamber membership and the many benefits click here |
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To free us from the expectations of others, to give us back to ourselves - there lies the great, singular power of self-respect.
Joan Didion |
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These rates are correct at time of going to press. | | Platinum | $ 1 283.50
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