Economy

Time for SA consumers to tighten belts and avoid debt

The recent increase in the repo rate, combined with steep increases in fuel and energy prices, points to a torrid time ahead for South African consumers – but the short-term discomfort should pay off in the long term, says employee benefits advisor firm NMG Benefits.

The gender pay gap is still an uncomfortable reality

The Oribi incubation model helps women discover economic freedom through collective networks and entrepreneurship development.

Why we’ve slashed our Chinese growth forecast

Economic forecasting can be a thankless task, and the latest round of revisions to our expectations for China came with a large portion of humble pie, says David Rees, Senior Emerging Markets Economist, Schroders

Riding forward to a green future in Africa

Electric motorcycles are set to be a dominant force in Sub-Saharan Africa’s sustainable mobility transformation, but continued investment in startups tackling barriers across the value chain will be critical to maximise the full potential, says a report recently released by the Powering Renewable Energy Opportunities (PREO) programme.

Business partnership with government

The financial services sector is built on trust and confidence, yet this has been lacking between business and government. There are now tentative indications that this is being repaired, albeit at a slow and uneven pace.

Look both ways before you cross the BRICS Road

The ongoing shift in economic and political influence from the West, represented by the United States and the G7, to the East, represented by China and the BRICS bloc of nations, has been grabbing headlines over the past few years.

African Business_Special Economic Zones_Cape Town

Are Special Economic Zones the key to African growth?

Nations across the continent are increasingly investing in economic zones as a way to promote manufacturing, boost industrial production and increase exports.

Keeping roads in good condition is vital for the welfare of truck fleets. Credit: Sanral

Revived infrastructure spending will make for safer roads

Government’s recent pledges to begin the procurement of services in extensive new build and upgrading of road infrastructure offers a glimmer of hope to businesses in the transport and construction industries.