Indholdsfortegnelse for 2024-12-20 i Mercury

Botswana’s newly elected government under President Duma Boko has officially lifted its import restrictions on vegetables from South Africa. This decisive move is expected to revitalise trade routes that have been affected by previous policies and enhance food security within Botswana’s borders. The National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC) yesterday heralded this decision as a pivotal moment not only for Botswana but for the agricultural economy of South Africa as well. According to the NAMC, the restrictions had previously caused a significant dip in South African vegetable exports to Botwana – falling from $33.8 million in 2021 to just $14.7m in 2023. In a statement, the NAMC said a key feature of the Southern African Customs Union (Sacu) is the application of a single tariff regime, that is the common external…

Eskom yesterday announced that it was aiming at an after-tax profit of R10 billion for the financial year ending March 2025 after suffering a loss of R55bn in the financial year ended March 2024. The state-owned power utility’s loss after tax of R55bn occurred mainly due to the derecognition of a deferred tax asset of R36.6bn triggered by the separation of the National Transmission Company South Africa on March 31, 2024. Eskom chief financial officer, Calib Cassim, deemed it unlikely that the remaining business would generate sufficient taxable income within the next five years to fully utilise Eskom’s unused assessed tax losses. “It is encouraging that we recorded a lower loss before tax despite the momentous operational challenges we faced. I believe that we have reached a turning point and…

The 2025 Raging Bull Awards for collective investment scheme performance to the end of 2024 comprise 19 certificates for straight performance over three years and eight trophies for risk-adjusted performance over five years. There is also the coveted trophy for the SA Manager of the Year and a certificate for the runner-up. The certificate categories correspond with third-tier sub-categories in the Association for Savings and Investment South Africa (Asisa) Fund Classification Standard of 2013, amended in 2024, while the trophy categories are broader, corresponding more closely with Asisa’s second-tier classification. Not all Asisa categories are represented, either because there are not enough funds in a particular category to warrant an award, or because the mandates for the funds in those categories do not enable them to compete in a meaningful…

The role of an executor is to step into your shoes after your death to ensure that your assets are distributed in the best interests of your estate and those that you love. In this article, we unpack a number of factors to consider when making this all-important decision. Special combination of skills: An executor must possess a solid understanding of business, finance, accounting, tax, and relevant estate administration and succession law. This role demands excellent time management skills, the ability to multitask, and the capability to meet various deadlines set by Sars and the Master’s Office. Further, it is a highly administratively demanding position. Interpersonal skills: An executor serves a key role in communication and relationship management, working closely with various parties, including heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, debtors, and…

Summer dining at restaurants can transform a casual meal into an unforgettable experience. By preparing yourself with these simple but effective tips, you’ll be ready to savour every moment under the sun, surrounded by good food and companionship. As the sun emerges, so does the vibrant energy of summer dining. With the longer days and warmer nights signalling patrons to enjoy meals al fresco, preparation is key to maximising your dining experience at restaurants this season. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a casual outing, here’s how to make the most of your summer dining adventures. Choose the right location Your dining experience begins long before you sit at a table. Research restaurants that embody the summer spirit, with outdoor seating options that allow you…

EThekwini mayor Cyril Xaba says the city is well on track to reach its target of over 1 million visitors and over R2 billion economic spend by the end of the festive season. Xaba, speaking during a media briefing in Durban yesterday said over the December 16 long weekend the city had received over 113 000 visitors with an economic spend of R463 million. “Of this number (113 000), 68 000 were overnight visitors. The direct spend was R463m, with over 2 000 direct employment opportunities created. The contribution to the GDP was R1.145bn.” Xaba added that these figures demonstrated that Durban remained a premier holiday destination. “Our hotel occupancy rate was 72%, with market demand concentrating in the northern areas and the beachfront. While Durban is known for…

A provincial government investigation into the George multi-fatality building collapse is currently being peer-reviewed to determine the cause of the disaster. The investigation is one of several independent probes which authorities said will, as each one is concluded, be consolidated to ensure accountability after the tragedy claimed the lives of 34 people when the building collapsed on May 6 in George Municipality in the Western Cape. Provincial government spokesperson Melt Botes said the peer review and the parallel investigations should be allowed to run their course. “The findings from an independent assessment/investigation, which the Western Cape Government undertook through a structural engineering firm to determine the cause of the disaster, are currently being peer reviewed. This process must be allowed to run its course to uphold and protect the integrity…

Carling All Stars coach Jose Riveiro is not taking the threat posed by Knockout Cup champions Magesi FC lightly ahead of their exhibition clash. The Limpopo-based outfit will get another shot at history when they take on the All Stars team at the Orlando Stadium tomorrow (3.30pm kick-off). The clash will be a straight-out final shootout between the winners of the Carling Knockout competition and the Carling All Stars team made up of players and coaches from the various PSL teams, as voted for by the fans. Dikwena tsa Meetse won the second edition of the Knockout competition in their first season in top-flight football, after a surprise 2-1 win against defending league champions Mamelodi Sundowns last month. They come up against an All Stars team under the guidance of…

How about Marcell Coetzee, Elrigh Louw and Cameron Hanekom against Phepsi Buthelezi, Emmanuel Tshituka and Siya Kolisi? That is a possibility when the Bulls travel to Durban to tackle the Sharks at Kings Park in tomorrow’s United Rugby Championship showdown, and it’s a battle that could have a major bearing on the outcome. South Africa have always been blessed with outstanding loose forwards, and it’s no different for the Bulls and Sharks. But this weekend, the Pretoria side are hurting from two consecutive Champions Cup defeats, to Saracens away and Harlequins at Loftus Versfeld. In contrast, the Sharks kept their big names at home for last weekend’s 53-16 loss to Leicester in England, after they saw off Exeter 39-21 in Durban a week earlier. So, the likes of Springbok captain…

Ferrari have yet to set a date for Lewis Hamilton’s track debut in red overalls, but his 2025 car will be unveiled in Maranello on February 19 – the day after Formula One’s unprecedented 10-team livery launch in London. Ferrari fans are eager for a first glimpse of the seven-time world champion driving for their team since his move from Mercedes, but the buzz around the Briton needs to be carefully managed. Hamilton, who turns 40 on January 7 and replaces Spaniard Carlos Sainz, is likely to have a first outing at the Fiorano test track under rules allowing a limited use of cars that are at least two years old. Team boss Fred Vasseur told reporters over a Christmas lunch at the track that the winter weather made planning…

The year 2024 has ushered in a new low for South Africa’s football giants, Kaizer Chiefs. Once renowned for their prowess on the pitch, the Naturena-based club have found victories harder to come by than ever, mustering a mere six wins across all competitions in the past 12 months – including just five in the league and one in the Carling Knockout Cup. This stark statistic is particularly sobering for a team that have long claimed the title of ‘cup kings’ within South African football. The club’s faithful supporters, who have watched their beloved team endure a decade of torment, have yet to witness a major trophy lift since 2015. The emotional toll of that barren spell has been aggravated by a series of disappointing league finishes and an unstable…

BHP is facing a claim for sexual harrassment and sexual discrimination against women who worked for the company between November 2003 and March 2024. Shares in BHP, whose bid for Anglo American was rebuffed this year, slid 1.8% to R450.64 in afternoon trade on the JSE yesterday. The claim for sexual harassment and sex discrimination against BHP was filed with the Federal Court of Australia. “BHP has been served with a representative class action proceeding that has been filed in the Federal Court of Australia in relation to allegations of sexual harassment and sex discrimination,” said BHP in a statement. “The claim is brought on behalf of all women who worked at BHP’s Australian workplaces at any time during the period 12 November 2003 to 11 March 2024 who were…

As we approach 2025, global markets present a dynamic mix of opportunities and risks. Geopolitical tensions, shifting economic policies, and evolving consumer dynamics are reshaping the investment terrain. The ability to cut through short-term noise and focus on long-term fundamentals is more important than ever. By adopting a systematic and evidence-based approach, investors can navigate these complexities and position themselves to seize opportunities across asset classes. Trump-era Tariffs Recent data indicates that the US economy is growing above trend, driven by robust consumer spending, declining political uncertainty as the election cycle stabilises, and a resilient labor market. These factors collectively point to potential upside surprises in US GDP growth for 2025. Despite this acceleration in growth, inflation concerns remain muted. Inflation in the US is largely driven by the shelter…

The festive season is a highly anticipated time for road trips, family holidays, and fun outings. It’s also, a period of, increased traffic, crowded parking, unfamiliar environments, and higher alcohol consumption. With these risks comes an increase in the likelihood of accidents and minor vehicle damages. From 2022 to 2023, the registered vehicle population in South Africa increased by 168 605. In November 2024, new vehicle sales in the country hit a new record of nearly 50 000 units that month alone pointing to an unprecedented number of cars on the road this holiday season. Holidays should be about creating memories, not worrying about unforeseen damages to your vehicle. Scratches and dents, though minor, can disrupt your festivities and put an unnecessary strain on your finances. It is valuable and…

Protest disruptions in Mozambique had resulted in the delay of 24 vessels at the Port of Maputo, while six vessels had cancelled due to stock shortages at the quayside as at November 30, 2024, logistics group Grindrod said yesterday. “With the end of the year approaching, all or a portion of delayed vessels, if not cancelled, can only be handled in the new year,” Grindrod directors said in a statement to a Johannesburg Stock Exchange platform yesterday. The group operates freight and logistics facilities at the port via a partnership with Mozambican port authorities. During the fourth quarter of Grindrod’s financial year to December 31, the operational performance of the port and group dry bulk sub-concessions was impacted by the protests in Maputo. The protests, which began on October 21,…

If you’ve ever found yourself staring at your phone, scrolling and wondering what on earth people are talking about, you’re not alone. In 2024, social media was a breeding ground for quirky, bizarre and downright hilarious slang that kept us all entertained (and occasionally confused). Whether you’re a proud member of Gen Z, a millennial trying to stay relevant, or someone just curious about what the kids are saying these days, this guide is for you. From “pookie” to “girl math”, here’s a round-up of the viral slang that took over our timelines, DMs, and TikTok comments this year. How many of these do you know? Let’s find out. 1. Skibidi The internet never fails to surprise us, and in 2024, Skibidi was the word on everyone’s lips –…

“Every structure has an Achilles’ heel. Once it is solved, the rest of the work is easy,” the 48-year-old told AFP. He needed 90 helpers for one of his most recent works – a life-sized Lego tram made up of a staggering 1.8 million pieces. Together they put in around 6 800 hours to assemble Doczy’s most ambitious project that is now on display in a bustling square in central Budapest. The 11-metre-long Lego tram – commissioned by Budapest’s transport companies and its tourist office to promote “public transport and creativity” – has attracted droves. “We’ve never seen anything like this before,” said Malaysian tourist Lucas Chang, 32, while dance coach Barbara Rajnai said children in her son’s and daughter’s kindergarten told them to check it out. A professional Lego…

The Sharks will welcome back six Springboks, including captain Siya Kolisi, for their local derby against the Bulls in Durban tomorrow evening, but there will be no sign of Eben Etzebeth or Bongi Mbonambi. A re-jigged team from the one that did duty last weekend in the Champions Cup will look to keep the winning momentum in the United Rugby Championship going in Durban (6pm start), despite the absence of two of their most influential players. Etzebeth could not pass an HIA test, and is also struggling with a few other knocks, which ruled him out when coach John Plumtree named his team yesterday. Kings Park saw them beat the Stormers in a nail-biting contest the last time they were in action in the URC, and Plumtree will hope his…

Australia captain Pat Cummins has leapt to the defence of his top-order batsmen after they again struggled for runs in the drawn third Test against India in Brisbane. Australia collapsed to 33/5 in their second innings at the Gabba on Wednesday, with the top four all dismissed for single-digit scores before Cummins declared at 89/7. The new opening combination of Usman Khawaja and Nathan McSweeney has failed to build a partnership of more than 21 runs in the series, while No 3 Marnus Labuschagne is averaging 16.40 from his five innings, despite a half-century in the second Test in Adelaide. Cummins said his batters fell quickly on Wednesday while chasing quick runs to allow a declaration that could set up a small chance of victory. “We are not beholden to…

The South African Grand Prix could be making a return to the Formula One calendar as soon as 2027. The last time fans last tasted wheel-to-wheel F1 action was in the year 1993 at the iconic Kyalami venue. Many of us weren’t even born then, or we had other interests elsewhere, but adopted the sport along the way. Grandstands were packed to capacity, with the different team flags waved by those waiting in anticipation for what was known then as the South African Grand Prix at the Kyalami circuit. Williams driver and winner of four championships, Alain Prost, returned to the spotlight, and he had a comeback to remember as he brushed off a challenge from Michael Schumacher and rival Ayrton Senna to win the GP on his return from…

Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis has been the fuel behind the team’s drive in recent years, and this is thanks to her positive outlook on the team’s performances. As such, when Banyana ended their year with back-to-back losses to Jamaica early this month, she cut a positive figure about the team’s performance. “It’s been a long season. Players are coming from the Cosafa Cup and the Caf Women’s Champions League, and the straight into this camp,” she explained. “So, it’s been a long season for everyone, and that’s why you’ve been seeing all the niggles. But I am happy and proud (of this group of players).” Played Top Opponents Banyana’s two successive losses to Jamaica’s Reggae Girlz marked their fourth loss in a row in less than a month, having…

SO FAR, so good for new Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso, who has won his first two matches in charge of the Brazilians. The fact that he has chalked up those victories on the back of very little time with the team suggests the Portuguese could well deliver even more once he has fully settled at Chloorkop. He now has a chance to spend some quality time with the team without the interruption of a match, with Premiership fixtures suspended this weekend in favour of the Carling Black Label Cup clash between Knockout champions Magesi FC and the All Star team. Sundowns saw off Stellenbosch FC 1-0 at the Cape Town Stadium on Wednesday night, courtesy of an Iqraam Rayners strike. Cardoso thus has a few days to figure the…

The latest agreement “monetises the future value of gold” produced from its PGM operations Sibanye-Stillwater announced yesterday that it will access $500 million (R8.8 billion) in non-debt capital after the company entered into a streaming agreement with Franco-Nevada for a fraction of gold and platinum produced from its Marikana, Rustenburg and Kroondal operations in South Africa. Shares in the SA gold and platinum group metals (PGM) producer traded 2.3% weaker to R16.64 in afternoon trade on the JSE yesterday, adding to the company’s 8.83%, 15.82% and 31.61% weakening in the past seven days, six months and year-to-date periods respectively. Although the new streaming agreement is still subject to approvals from the South African Reserve Bank, Sibanye-Stillwater will receive a $500m upfront payment in exchange for gold ounces equal to 1.1%…

The current rate of decarbonisation is too slow to meet science-based targets. As the mining industry looks towards a new year, it needs to urgently commit to an intensified pursuit of decarbonisation targets. Decarbonisation will be one of the key topics featured at the Investing in Africa Mining Indaba 2025 next February in Cape Town. We will bring our own experts to this important gathering to present the findings of our research along with solutions that will help mining companies to advance their efforts to decarbonise and future-proof their operations. Mining accounts for 4-7% of direct global greenhouse gas emissions. When scope 3 downstream emissions are included, this rises to 28%, or 19 440 megatons of carbon dioxide equivalent which is second only to agriculture/ land use/waste at 30% of…

South32 is concerned that an escalation in civil unrest in Mozambique could potentially impact operations for its unit in the country. Civil protests, road blockages, and the closure of the border between South Africa and Mozambique have characterised the aftermath of disputed elections in the country. In Mozambique, South32 operates Mozal Aluminium, whose saleable production for the year to June 2024 decreased by 9% to 314 000 tons as the smelter progressed its recovery plan, while managing the impact of load shedding. With Mozambique battling to quell the civil unrest that erupted after the disputed elections, companies feared for the worst as trucking blockades disrupted operations. South32 said yesterday that following an easing of tensions and improvement in the civil unrest situation, there were risks that the unrest could escalate…

Dating is a crucial phase of any romantic relationship. It’s during these moments that you get to know your partner, understand their values, and see if your personalities align. But how often should you date when you’ve just started seeing someone? And more importantly, what types of dates should you prioritise before committing to a serious relationship? How often should you go on dates when you’ve just started seeing someone? When you’ve just started dating, the frequency of dates can set the tone for the relationship. According to a Psychology Today article citing relationship expert Dr Seth Meyers, a healthy pace in the early stages of dating is about 1–2 dates per week. This allows both partners to gradually get to know each other without overwhelming the relationship dynamics. However,…

Taxpayers have coughed up more than R150 million to secure and pay for the rates and services of more than 10 000 unoccupied state properties across the country between April and November this year. “There are 10 188 unoccupied state properties as of November 22, 2024. The expenditure from April 2024 to date is R150 596 923 on security, rates, municipal services and day-to-day maintenance,” said Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson. He was responding to parliamentary questions from MK Party MP Sanele Mvali. Asked about plans to utilise or dispose of unoccupied state properties, Macpherson said the department has developed an asset optimisation strategy that was intended to ensure immovable state-owned properties were used for public good. The plan entailed the use of state properties through collaboration with…

It is important that the values of Test-match cricket are cherished, so that the game can be preserved. At its simplest, that means highly-skilled bowlers and batters constantly testing each other. And they can only do that on a consistent basis if the pitches they are playing on are of a certain quality. That’s according to Proteas coach Shukri Conrad, who has once again stressed the importance of playing on good surfaces ahead of the all-important two-match series against Pakistan. The Proteas require a single victory at either Centurion or Newlands over the festive season to ensure qualification for the World Test Championship final at Lord’s next year. Conrad will be hoping his team can get the job done in the highveld series opener, especially as the New Year Test…

Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu has seemingly developed an appetite for facing the Lions in the United Rugby Championship, and will look to feast again on them tomorrow afternoon in Cape Town. It’s a crucial South African derby (3.45pm kick-off) for the Stormers in what could determine the rest of their season in the tournament. Feinberg-Mngomezulu is one of a few Springboks, alongside prop Frans Malherbe, fetcher Deon Fourie and flyhalf Manie Libbok, returning from injury for the inaugural champions. The Lions will know Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s prowess all too well. He has been a keen terroriser of their defensive system, while some crucial tackles in their previous game also prevented the Johannesburg side from scoring what would’ve been a crucial try. Stormers supporters won’t forget the heroics of Feinberg-Mngomezulu in the last game between…

Holders Liverpool booked their berth in the League Cup semi-finals with a 2-1 victory over Southampton at a wet and windy St Mary’s Stadium on Wednesday night, thanks to goals from Darwin Nunez and Harvey Elliott. Gabriel Jesus bagged a second-half hat-trick as Arsenal came from behind to beat Crystal Palace 3-2, and Sandro Tonali scored twice to lead Newcastle to a 3-1 win over Brentford. Nunez, who had been goaded by Saints fans earlier in the game for a wild miss, got on the score-sheet in the 24th minute, pouncing after a mis-kick by centre back Jan Bednarek and a slip by keeper Alex McCarthy. Nunez put his finger to his lips in a gesture to the crowd after finishing past McCarthy. Elliott doubled the Reds’ lead eight minutes…

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has been at pains to play down the club’s chances of winning the Premier League in his first season in charge, but if they beat Everton away on Sunday, then, for a few hours at least, his side will top the table. The Italian’s insistence that Chelsea are not ready to win their first title since 2016-17 is understandable, given that few predicted a realistic challenge by the London outfit this term. But the evidence so far suggests that what the Italian says in public and what he actually believes are not aligned. With a deep and richly-talented squad – which, according to website Transfermarkt, has a combined market value of more than €1 billion – at his disposal, Chelsea look more than capable of taking…

Following a rough couple of results, the Orlando Pirates camp have received perhaps a welcomed ‘mini-break’ amid real pressure. The Buccaneers have now gone three games without a victory, having managed two draws against Al Ahly and Stade D’Abidjan in the CAF Champions League. Those two draws came after losing their first Premiership encounter this season against Stellenbosch FC. Prior to these anxiety-filled results, Pirates had romped to 11 wins in their first 12 matches in all competitions, their Carling Knockout Cup loss to Magesi FC the only outlier. They were questions posed to the Pirates squad depth at the start of the season, with their ambitions set on reclaiming the domestic league title and possibly the Champions League. The club’s desire to match up to Mamelodi Sundowns even saw…