Sunday Tribune 2024-08-25

The cost of groceries is widely expected to be the biggest increase in consumers’ spending over the next six months, but this is set to be usurped by the monthly electricity bill, if the proposed National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa)–approved 40% electricity tariff increase is widely implemented – placing South Africans in the impossible position of having to choose between keeping the lights on and feeding their families. The outcry against the outrageous tariff increase, set to take effect from April 1, 2025, should come as no surprise, with thousands across the country signing a petition against it. With the disappearance of load shedding, this begs the question whether citizens are now being asked to pay the price for “fixing” the crisis. South Africans are at breaking point…

The New Development Bank (NDB) plays a pivotal role in global trade and Africa’s development, Independent Media chairman Dr Iqbal Survé said in an interview with IOL ahead of the NDB’s annual meeting in Cape Town. Dr Survé emphasised the bank’s transformative potential, particularly for Africa and South Africa. He highlighted the NDB’s creation as a response to the limitations of traditional Western-dominated financial institutions. He believes that the NDB offers a more inclusive and flexible approach to financing, better suited to the unique needs of BRICS nations and other developing countries. According to Dr Survé, this flexibility positions the NDB as a crucial tool for reshaping global trade dynamics and supporting long-term development goals. He also shared his insights on the BRICS common currency. He views this currency not…

South Africa has seen a surge of investor confidence and Capitec chief executive Gerrie Fourie says things are improving for the better. Talking at a media briefing last week, Fourie said: “What has happened in South Africa in the last six months has been overall very positive. The coalition government has been very impactful. We’ve seen changes taking place. “One can definitely see that the CEO initiative between the private sector and the government is starting to bear fruit and a lot of initiatives are taking place. Overall the economy should be in a much better place than it’s been for quite a long period,” he said. Fourie reflected on how during the Covid-19 pandemic many central banks printed money globally, which led to high inflation and a lot of…

Historically, on August 9, 1956, some 20 000 South African women of all races staged a march to the Union Buildings in Pretoria to protest against the proposed amendments to the Urban Areas Act. In the modern world, it seems that millions of women, especially those from rural areas, in 2024 still have to march in very difficult circumstances to make a living and attain prosperity. When I started primary school two decades ago, I went to a school where all teachers were women. The Gauteng farm school was built of mud bricks and had just four classrooms. To place it in context, Grade 1 had its own classroom and teacher. Grades 2 and 3 were in the same classroom sharing a single teacher, while grade 4 and 5 also…

We are finally headed for the spring and summer season. Spring and summer bring warmer weather, extended daylight, and the craving for cold beverages. This is the perfect time to get your restaurant hot weather ready. From transforming your space into an outdoor retreat to making the most of occasions, there are several ways to elevate your dining experience, attract new guests, and boost your bottom line this season. Use these tips to prepare your restaurant for the spring and summer vibes. Spring cleaning comes first Spring cleaning highly differs from winter cleaning. Spring means more dust and more dirt left on tables and chairs, even the decorative setting that you have. Make sure you throw your restaurant a deep cleaning service and open the outdoor area. You won’t…

In South Africa, women face unique challenges when it comes to managing money. Recent studies show that women experience more financial stress than men. However, they are also more proactive in seeking help to manage their finances. Many South African women worry about their financial future, feeling the pressure of everyday expenses, debt and saving for the future. This stress can be attributed to various factors, including wage gaps, career interruptions and societal expectations. Despite these challenges, women are more likely than men to reach out for financial advice and support. Financial planners and advisers note that women often seek guidance on budgeting, investing, and planning for retirement. This willingness to seek help can be empowering, enabling women to make informed decisions and gain better control over their finances According…