| MINISTERIAL TREE-PLANTING UNDERSCORES SAPPI CONSERVATION ETHOS |
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(ltr) Forestry SA Executive Director Michael Peter, Sappi Southern Africa Head of Corporate Affairs Tebele Makhetha, Forestry SA chair Duane Roothman, Minister Dion George and Sappi Southern Africa CEO Graeme Wild.
Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries Dion George and Forestry SA executives joined Sappi staff to plant six indigenous trees at the Shaw Research Centre near Howick to celebrate Arbor Week (1-7 September) and support ecological restoration. Sappi’s forest conservation efforts extend beyond Arbor Month in September, protecting indigenous patches, restoring rare species like Black Stinkwood, and clearing invasive plants. Its Rare, Threatened, and Endangered Species Programme cultivates medicinal trees, preserving biodiversity and traditional remedies. The company also partners with local communities, creating employment through restoration projects. The Miyawaki-style arboretum - where indigenous trees are planted close together - serves as a living classroom, wildlife refuge, and symbol of Sappi’s commitment to sustainable forestry, biodiversity, and cultural heritage. |
| COMMUNITY CHEST HONOURS 65 YEARS OF BURCZAK FRAMING |
(ltr) Chris and Dylan Burczak with Angie Narayanan of the Community Chest.
The Community Chest extended special thanks and appreciation to Chris and Dylan Burczak, Pietermaritzburg’s longest-standing framing business. Burczaks sponsored the framing for the Top Award Certificates which were prresented at the Community Chest Top Donor Awards last month. The business was also recognised for 65 years of charitable giving to the Community Chest.
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| FRIDAY PLEA FOR SAFE DRIVING ON TREACHEROUS N3 |
| An early-morning truck crash on the N3 near Key Ridge yesterday morning that blocked both carriageways highlighted the importance of vigilance and defensive driving, particularly in view of the ongoing work on the country’s busiest route. While preliminary reports suggest possible brake failure caused the truck to plough into multiple vehicles, the accident is neverthless a timely reminder to road users to avoid distractions, keep to speed limits, maintain safe distances, and exercise caution on high-volume freight routes. Safe driving, see you on Monday! |
1939: Genl Herzog resigns as prime minister after the motion of neutrality in WW2 was defeated.
Elsewhere, in 1977, the Voyager 1 probe was launched. At last count it was 25 billion km from Earth, and counting.
For those who are perpetually running behind time, take heart because today is Be Late For Something Day!
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ALARM OVER UTILITY TARIFF HIKES OUTPACING INFLATION TWICE OVER
The Competition Commission’s inaugural Cost of Living Report has revealed that water and electricity tariffs have surged at more than twice the rate of headline inflation since 2020, raising concerns about runaway administered prices. Based on Stats SA’s consumer price index data, electricity costs jumped 68% and water charges climbed 50% in the past five years, compared to a 28% rise in overall inflation.
The findings put pressure on regulators and policymakers to address affordability concerns amid growing public frustration. By spotlighting utilities, the commission has ignited debate over pricing reforms and market fairness, warning that unchecked tariff increases risk deepening economic strain on households and businesses. (SOURCE: BDLive)
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... AS HOUSEHOLDS BUCKLE UNDER FINANCIAL STRAIN
The latest Altron FinTech Household Resilience Index (AFHRI) reveals that South African households continue to experience significant financial challenges. Despite a modest year-on-year improvement, the index shows a quarter-on-quarter decline of 4.2% in Q1 2025. This downturn is attributed to high interest rates, which have kept the real prime lending rate significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels. Economist Dr. Roelof Botha, who compiles the index, emphasizes that while some recovery is evident, households remain under substantial financial pressure. He advocates for more substantial monetary policy easing to improve household financial resilience. (SOURCE: Engineering News) |
DEADLINE FOR SASSA GOLD CARDS NOW IN DECEMBER 2026
The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) has extended Postbank’s deadline to phase out Sassa Gold Cards by 15 months, with about 450 000 still in circulation. Beneficiaries may continue using both Gold and Black Cards without disruption, SARB assured Parliament. Postbank must now issue a more secure “Black Card 2,” tighten security, launch communication campaigns, and provide regular compliance reports. A cryptographic breach in 2021 had compromised Gold Cards, prompting the replacement order. Postbank CEO Nikki Mbangashe said the bank has recovered financially, turning a R1 billion loss into a R106 million profit in 2024/25 while serving over five million customers. (SOURCE: GroundUp) |
TYMEBANK PARTNERS WITH HOME AFFAIRS ON DIGITAL IDS
TymeBank has become the eighth bank to join the Department of Home Affairs’ (DHA) digital partnership, enabling South Africans to apply for smart IDs and passports through its network. Announced on 3 September, the collaboration aims to modernise and expand access to secure, inclusive services, particularly in underserved areas. With over 11 million customers, TymeBank will support a phased rollout, starting at its Johannesburg headquarters. Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber called it the department’s most pro-poor reform, while TymeBank CEO Karl Westvig said the partnership reflects its mission of technology-driven financial and social inclusion. (SOURCE: Moneyweb) |
RAF SEEKS URGENT TALKS WITH LAWYERS AFTER COURT LOSS
The Road Accident Fund’s (RAF) interim board has invited attorney associations to an urgent meeting after the High Court dismissed its application to extend a 180-day payment moratorium. The ruling forces RAF to settle claims within 14 days, raising doubts about its financial capacity. Attorneys accuse the fund of damage control, but some welcomed open dialogue after years of strained relations. The Personal Injury Plaintiff Lawyers Association pledged constructive engagement, urging solutions to chronic payment delays. With an appeal pending on unconstitutional claims procedures, legal experts warn RAF faces mounting liabilities that could push it closer to collapse. (SOURCE: Moneyweb) |
TAU UNDER PRESSURE TO RELEASE SABS REPORT
Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau faces mounting pressure to release the TSU International investigative report into alleged corruption and mismanagement at the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS). MP Toby Chance has called for urgent transparency after the report, commissioned in February, missed its 31 July deadline. The push follows whistleblower claims of ongoing wasteful expenditure, mismanaged projects, and intimidation at SABS, with undelivered goods and approvals made without oversight. Chance insists public interest demands disclosure. Tau’s office says a process is underway to stabilise SABS, but stakeholders stress immediate action is needed to restore accountability and prevent further mismanagement. (SOURCE: Engineering News) |
TREASURY PULLS THORNY PREFERENCE SHARE TAX PROPOSAL
National Treasury has withdrawn its proposed amendment to the Income Tax Act that threatened the use of preference shares in funding structures, following heavy criticism from investors and businesses. The draft change, aimed at tightening anti-avoidance rules on hybrid equity instruments, created uncertainty that disrupted transactions and risked raising funding costs for BEE deals, renewable energy projects, and infrastructure investments. While stakeholders welcomed the retraction, many said the damage to investor confidence was already done. Treasury promised future changes would follow proper consultation. Experts stressed preference shares remain vital for raising capital, supporting entrepreneurs, and enabling long-term economic growth. (SOURCE: Moneyweb) |
ANGLO SELLS FINAL STAKE IN VALTERRA PLATINUM
Anglo American has announced the sale of its remaining 19.9% stake in Valterra Platinum (formerly Anglo American Platinum) for about $2.7 billion (R48 billion), marking its full exit from platinum. The 52 million shares will be sold to institutional investors through an accelerated bookbuild. Valterra, listed in London since June, has gained 30% amid surging precious metal prices, with platinum up 57% this year. CEO Duncan Wanblad said the move completes Anglo’s responsible separation process, sharpening its focus on copper, iron ore, and crop nutrients. The sale follows BHP’s failed $49 billion takeover bid in 2024. (SOURCE: Bloomberg) |
... AS VALUATION SQUABLE HOLDS UP IDC-AMSA DEAL
Talks between ArcelorMittal and South Africa’s state-owned Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) over the sale of ArcelorMittal South Africa (Amsa) have stalled due to a valuation gap of up to R7 billion. While negotiations continue ahead of a September 30 due diligence deadline, the Luxembourg-based parent is seeking more than what has been offered. The state views Amsa as critical to domestic steel supply, but losses at its Newcastle and Vereeniging mills threaten 3,500 jobs and 100,000 more in supply chains. Without agreement, closures loom, raising concerns about steel security, investment, and long-term industrial capacity in South Africa’s struggling economy. (SOURCE: Bloomberg) |
... AND MTN REVIVES TAKE-OVER TALKS WITH TELKOM
MTN Group, Africa’s largest wireless carrier, is exploring renewed talks to acquire Telkom SA, with both firms engaging advisors ahead of potential negotiations later this year. While no deal is guaranteed, the move comes after MTN abandoned a 2022 bid over exclusivity and antitrust concerns. Telkom’s value has since risen to about R25 billion, its shares gaining over 40%. Analysts say MTN is encouraged by Vodacom’s recent regulatory success in acquiring a fibre stake, boosting hopes of approval. A merger could help close MTN’s gap with Vodacom, enhance rural connectivity, and streamline costly infrastructure duplication. (SOURCE: Bloomberg) |
FIVE TO FACE TRIAL OVER FREE STATE DAM COLLAPSE
Five people will stand trial over the 2022 Jagersfontein dam disaster that devastated Charlsville in the Free State. The National Prosecuting Authority confirmed that the suspects - employees of an engineering company, a compliance officer and an operations manager - face charges including murder, malicious damage to property and safety violations. The dam collapse killed two people, left one missing, destroyed homes and farmland, and caused environmental damage. The case begins September 10 in Jagersfontein Magistrate’s Court, before moving to a higher court. Authorities say government remains committed to accountability and long-term rehabilitation of the affected community and environment. (SOURCE: BDLive) |
BUSINESS URGES G20 FOCUS ON SKILLS
The B20 employment and education task force has urged G20 nations to prioritise equipping young people and women with practical, job-ready skills to meet future economic demands. It warned against overemphasis on paper qualifications, stressing that real employment outcomes must guide policy. The task force called for governments to commit at least 0.5% of GDP to lifelong learning initiatives and to adopt a youth employment compact. Highlighting platforms like South Africa’s SAYouth.mobi, it said practical solutions are essential to close the gap between education and labour market needs, ensuring inclusive and sustainable growth across member countries. (SOURCE: BDLive) |
CHINESE CAR SALES SURGE 89% UPENDS CONVENTION
Sales of Chinese vehicle brands in South Africa jumped 89% in the first half of 2025, according to AutoTrader’s Mid-Year Report. BYD led with a staggering 637% increase, followed by Jaecoo (168%) and Omoda (99%). More established brands also grew, with Haval up 33%, Chery 14%, and BAIC 16%. Consumer searches for Chinese cars climbed 67% year-on-year, while enquiries rose 81%. AutoTrader CEO George Mienie said affordability, technology, and value are driving this “structural shift.” Chinese brands are also expanding hybrid offerings, reshaping competition and influencing what South Africans consider possible in design, safety, and pricing. (SOURCE: Engineering News) |
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The only discipline that lasts is self-discipline.
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| Dollar | R17.72 | + 0.39% | | Pound | R23.87
| - 0.02% | | Euro | R20.69 | + 0.06% | | Yen | 0.119454 |
| | Yuan | R2.48 | + 0.43% | | Bitcoin | $ 111 593.91
| + 0.97% |
These rates are correct at time of going to press. | | Platinum | $ 1 381.70 | + 0.56% | | Gold | $ 3 552.80
| + 0.21% | | Oil | $ 66.76
| - 0.06% | | All Share | 100 433.71
| - 1.07% | | Repo | 7.00 | | | Prime | 10.50 | |
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