| NOVEMBER FUEL PRICES SET FOR MAJOR NOVEMBER DROPHEADING |
Motorists can anticipate significant relief at the pump this November, with petrol prices projected to decrease by up to 70 cents per litre and diesel by approximately 30 cents per litre, the largest reductions in seven months. These anticipated reductions are attributed to a combination of factors, including a stronger Rand and declining global oil prices. All things being equal, the relief will kick in on Wednesday, 5 November.
See below: Global oil markets heading for massive 2026 surplus
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| TELEPHONE RECEPTION COURSE RINGS OFF WITH A BANG |
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Ann-Rose Oldham with the final class of telephone reception trainees for 2025. Picture and words by PMCB intern Mvelo Ximba.
The Pietermaritzburg Chamber of Business (PMCB) yesterday hosted its final Telephone Reception training session of the year, led by seasoned facilitator Ann-Rose Oldham of Maritzburg Business College. A long-time favourite in the business community, the course focused on building confidence, courtesy, and clarity in workplace communication. Participants learned how to create positive first impressions, manage challenging callers, and project professionalism in every interaction. Practical exercises helped refine tone, listening skills, and message delivery - ensuring attendees left ready to represent their organisations with distinction.
While the 2025 business skills programme is gradually coming to an end, applications for the 2026 programme close on Friday. Contact Candice Warr on news@pmcb.org.za for more information. |
| THE LONG AND WINDY ROAD TO ROAD ACCIDENT FUND CHAOS |
Former RAF executives told parliament that senior management bypassed board approvals, ignored procurement rules, and authorised irregular spending, including a R1.8 million CEO security bill. Affidavits also raised concerns over retaliatory suspensions. The disclosures form part of a broader Scopa inquiry into systemic governance failures, prompting lawmakers to consider measures to restore oversight, accountability, and financial integrity at the fund. For a deep delve into the events leading to the current chaos, click here.
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1993: Nelson Mandela and F.W. de Klerk were named the recipients of the Nobel Peace Prize.
Elsewhere, in 1934, Chinese communists began the Long March, the 10 000-km trek from southeast to northwest China.
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KZN USED CAR BUYERS BRACE FOR INCREASES AS PRICES RISE 6%
Used-vehicle buyers in KZN paid an average of R368 500 for passenger and light commercial vehicles between June and August 2025, marking a 6% increase from early 2024, according to Lightstone. While Gauteng led in volume and North West recorded the highest average price at R424 000, KZN remains a key market for the used-car sector.
Prices in the province have generally tracked Gauteng’s, moving between R350 000 and R400 000 over the past 20 months. The Western Cape averaged R328 000, while the Free State remained the lowest at R296 000. Analysts say rising demand and inflationary pressures continue to drive price growth in KZN’s automotive market. (SOURCE: Engineering News)
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... AS CROSSOVERS AND SUVS FIND MORE FAVOUR
KZN motorists are increasingly trading in hatchbacks for crossovers and SUVs, mirroring national trends in both new and used car sales. Lightstone Auto’s latest report shows that used crossover and SUV sales have now overtaken hatches in KZN for the first time in 2025. Data analyst Andrew Hibbert says Gauteng led the shift last year, with KZN and the Western Cape now following. While hatchbacks and sedans continue to lose market share, double-cab pickups remain steady. SUVs’ mix of comfort, height, and versatility is driving their popularity across urban and coastal buyers seeking style and practicality. (SOURCE: Bizcommunity)
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... AND STATE MOVES TO SECURE FUEL SUPPLIES IN DURBAN
Government has ordered major fuel terminal operators in Durban’s Island View precinct to cede part of their capacity to the state-owned Central Energy Fund (CEF). Environment Minister Barbara Creecy says the directive aims to strengthen national fuel security, support the revival of the Sapref refinery, and accelerate transformation within the energy sector. Negotiations began in September between the CEF and terminal operators at the busy port, which handles most of South Africa’s fuel and petrochemical imports. The move forms part of government’s broader strategy to reduce reliance on private operators and safeguard supply amid global market volatility. (SOURCE: BDLive)
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R8.5 BILLION BUY-OUT TALKS RAISE HOPES FOR AMSA RESCUE
Negotiations for an R8.5 billion buyout of the African Marine Solutions Association (AMSA) are reportedly gaining momentum, insiders reveal. The proposed deal involves private investors and strategic partners aiming to consolidate operations, strengthen market positioning, and expand AMSA’s regional influence. Sources say due diligence and valuation assessments are advancing, with key stakeholders expressing optimism about reaching terms swiftly. If concluded, the buyout could reshape the maritime services sector, providing capital for fleet expansion, operational efficiencies, and enhanced service offerings. Observers note the transaction reflects growing investor confidence in South Africa’s maritime logistics and industrial infrastructure markets, despite broader economic uncertainties. (SOURCE: News24)
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R1.8 TRILLION CORPORATE CASH HOARD HIGHLIGHTS CONFIDENCE GAP
South African non-financial companies are sitting on a record R1.8 trillion in cash, up R700 billion since 2019, according to the Reserve Bank’s September quarterly bulletin. The surge reflects persistent corporate caution, low economic growth, and high inflation, which have curtailed investment despite abundant liquidity. Economists warn that idle corporate funds are a missed opportunity to stimulate jobs and economic expansion, placing pressure on President Ramaphosa to implement reforms that encourage investment. The R1.8 trillion hoard underscores a broader confidence gap in South Africa’s business environment, highlighting the need for policy measures that boost certainty, lower costs, and incentivise companies to deploy cash into productive projects rather than accumulating reserves. (SOURCE: BDLive)
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... AS PEDESTRAIN REFORMS CRIMP GROWTH, SAYS MOODY'S
South Africa’s economy shows signs of recovery from structural reforms but remains far from the government’s 3.5% growth target, Moody’s Ratings warns. Persistent challenges - including dilapidated infrastructure, electricity shortages, crime, corruption, and logistics bottlenecks - have kept growth below 1% annually for over a decade. Moody’s projects output at 1% in 2025 and 1.6% in 2026, noting that slow expansion will complicate government efforts to reduce debt. Analysts say the economy is 37% smaller than if it had matched emerging-market peers since 2010, highlighting the need for accelerated reforms to achieve sustainable growth and fiscal stability. (SOURCE: Bloomberg)
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... AND MINING BACKS 3% INFLATION TARGET
The Minerals Council SA has thrown its support behind the Reserve Bank’s proposal to lower the inflation target to 3%, citing easing cost pressures across the sector. Recent council data shows operating costs for local miners dropped to historic lows in August, with input cost inflation slowing to just 1.3% year on year. Analysts say the mining sector’s improved efficiency and reduced energy costs provide a strong case for a tighter inflation band. A lower target, they argue, could anchor price stability and support long-term investment confidence in South Africa’s resource-driven economy. (SOURCE: BDLive)
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SANPARKS TOASTS R4 BILLION INCOME ON ROAD TO SELF-SUFFICIENCY
SANParks has reported a record R4 billion in income for the 2025 financial year, driven by growing tourism, conservation fees, and commercial ventures. The agency aims to become fully self-sufficient, reducing reliance on government funding while maintaining and expanding its parks. Revenue gains are earmarked for infrastructure, wildlife protection, and visitor services across South Africa’s national parks. SANParks CEO emphasized that financial independence will support long-term sustainability, improved security, and better visitor experiences. Stakeholders hope the windfall also addresses maintenance backlogs, including trails, roads, and facilities, ensuring the natural beauty and safety of the parks are preserved for future generations. (SOURCE: News24)
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AGRICULTURAL EXPORTS FIND NEW MARKETS AS US SHARE SINKS 6%
South Africa’s agricultural sector is proving remarkably resilient as exports surge despite new US tariffs. According to KAL Group CEO Sean Walsh, the disruption has accelerated diversification into Asian, African, and European markets, supported by stronger logistics and partnerships. The US now accounts for less than 6% of South African agri exports, while SADC and EU markets dominate. The citrus industry, largely shielded from tariff impacts, is on track for a record 180 million cartons this year. Producers of macadamias, wine, and avocados are also targeting India, China, and Vietnam as part of a broader trade realignment. (SOURCE: Bizcommunity)
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GLOBAL OIL MARKET HEADS FOR MASSIVE 2026 SURPLUS
The International Energy Agency warns of a potential four-million-barrel-per-day oil surplus in 2026 as OPEC+ and non-OPEC producers increase output while global demand growth remains sluggish. Supply is rising faster than demand, with 2025 and 2026 expected to see only 700 000 barrels-per-day gains annually. The glut is larger than other forecasts, driven by Middle East production, US, Canada, Brazil, and Guyana expansions. Prices have dipped, with Brent crude near $62 a barrel. The IEA cites a faster shift to renewables and electrification of transport as factors curbing oil consumption growth, raising concerns over market oversupply. (SOURCE: Reuters)
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CRYPTO CRASH WIPES OUT R2.6 TRILLION IN 24 HOURS
The global cryptocurrency market tumbled over $150 billion (about R 2.6 trillion) in 24 hours, driven by heightened geopolitical tensions. Bitcoin fell 3.75% to around $111 500, while Ether dropped 7.5% below $4 000. Smaller, more volatile tokens plunged further, compounding losses. The selloff followed China’s curbs on US-linked Hanwha Ocean Co, retaliating against American shipping measures, and came after $19 billion in leveraged crypto positions were liquidated. Investors withdrew $756 million from US Bitcoin and Ether ETFs, highlighting nervous sentiment. Analysts say the market has entered a consolidation phase, with cautious risk-taking and selective rebuilding of confidence across both spot and derivatives markets. (SOURCE: Bloomberg)
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Believe that life is worth living and your belief will help create the fact.
William James |
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| Dollar | R17.31 | + 0.39% | | Pound | R23.15 | - 0.01% | | Euro | R20.14 | + 0.17% | | Yen | 0.114526 |
| | Yuan | R2.43 | + 0.09% | | Bitcoin | $ 111 951.70 | - 1.05% |
These rates are correct at time of going to press. | | Platinum | $ 1 653.01 | + 0.63% | | Gold | $ 4 189.40
| + 1.12% | | Oil | $ 62.26 | - 0.06% | | All Share | 110 875.26
| - 0.14% | | Repo | 7.00 | | | Prime | 10.50 | |
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