The North West Provincial Legislature’s Ad Hoc Committee investigating allegations of interference involving Clifton J Groep has recommended that possible cases of perjury uncovered during its hearings be referred to the National Director of Public Prosecutions for further considerat...
Strong performance signals resilience despite global uncertainty
Capitec Bank has delivered an impressive financial performance, reporting a 23% increase in headline earnings to R16.8 billion for the financial year ending February 2026.
The growth was largely fuelled by strong gains in interest income, supported by favourable interest rate conditions throughout 2025. Despite rising geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, CEO Graham Lee remains confident in the bank’s ability to maintain its upward trajectory.
A standout driver behind the results has been increased credit card usage, alongside the bank’s zero-fee international offering, which has gained traction among customers. Lee expressed optimism about continued credit demand, noting that South Africa’s economy had shown encouraging signs of recovery before global tensions began to escalate.
While acknowledging potential economic pressure in the months ahead, Lee emphasised that challenging conditions often create new opportunities.
“In difficult times, there are many opportunities,” he said, pointing to growing demand from both businesses seeking funding and consumers looking for greater value from their banks.
Beyond traditional banking, Capitec continues to expand its footprint through diversification. The bank reported 38% growth in both insurance and fintech income, while its mobile network offering, Capitec Connect, has reached 1.5 million active users.
Its business banking division is also gaining momentum, with client numbers rising by 71% to 456,000, reflecting increased confidence among small and medium-sized enterprises.
Lee, who took over from former CEO Gerrie Fourie nine months ago, described the role as both demanding and rewarding. He credited the bank’s success to a strong internal culture, highlighting alignment, shared values and teamwork as key drivers behind its continued growth.
As global uncertainties persist, Capitec’s latest results position it as one of South Africa’s standout financial performers — balancing resilience with strategic expansion in a shifting economic landscape.
This article was originally posted by the Business Report
Rising diesel costs and supply shortages put pressure on farmers ahead of key planting seasons
South Africa’s agricultural sector has raised serious concerns over a growing fuel crisis that could disrupt both winter and summer crop production, despite temporary relief measures introduced by government.
Industry bodies AgriSA and Agbiz say the extension of fuel levy relief until June offers short-term financial breathing room for farmers and consumers. However, they warn that the intervention does little to address deeper structural challenges facing the sector.
Among the most pressing issues are unreliable diesel supply, rising input costs, and increasing global oil prices — factors partly driven by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Surveys conducted among farmers and fuel distributors highlight that price volatility, supply reliability, and production costs remain the sector’s biggest concerns.
Ongoing disruptions in the fuel supply chain are already being felt on farms. Delayed deliveries, restricted allocations, and reduced volumes are forcing some farmers to operate with less fuel than required. This has resulted in operational delays during critical planting and production periods.
The impact is expected to be particularly visible in the upcoming winter planting season. Early data suggests that wheat plantings for the 2026/27 season could decline by around 6% — potentially the lowest level recorded in over a decade. Analysts attribute this to a combination of weak global prices, rising costs, and growing uncertainty in the production environment.
Any delays caused by fuel shortages or reduced input usage could further weigh on overall output.
Looking ahead, the outlook for the summer crop season is equally uncertain. Continued fuel constraints and price volatility pose a significant risk, even as South Africa is projected to harvest a record 20.8 million tonnes of grains and oilseeds in the current 2025/26 season.
While this bumper harvest may provide temporary stability for food supply and pricing, experts caution that future production cycles could be compromised if underlying challenges are not addressed.
Diesel remains a critical input across the agricultural value chain — from planting and irrigation to harvesting and transport. As a result, supply disruptions and rising costs have an immediate and direct impact on production levels.
Many farmers are already adapting to the pressure by cutting back on production, reducing input usage, dipping into financial reserves, and exploring alternative energy solutions.
AgriSA and Agbiz have called for a coordinated response to stabilise the sector. This includes ensuring consistent fuel supply, improving transparency in distribution, and addressing logistical bottlenecks that continue to hinder operations.
They have also welcomed the ongoing review of the fuel pricing model, stressing the need for future regulations to better reflect the realities faced by agricultural producers.
Despite the mounting challenges, both organisations reaffirmed their commitment to working with government and industry stakeholders to strengthen the resilience of South Africa’s agricultural sector and safeguard its role in food security and economic growth.
This article was originally posted by The Business Report
Fifth Suspect Arrested After Murder of North West Couple in Butchery
A fifth suspect has been arrested in connection with the brutal murder of a business couple from Mahikeng, who were shot dead during a robbery at their butchery last week.
According to police, the 32-year-old suspect was arrested on Thursday (30 April) in Itsoseng. He is expected to appear in the Mmabatho Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 4 May, facing charges of murder, business robbery, and the illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.
The incident took place on Friday (24 April), when Sergio and Marlene Gomes were shot during a robbery at their butchery. Marlene died at the scene, while Sergio later succumbed to his injuries in hospital.
Police spokesperson Colonel Adele Myburgh said the couple had reportedly rushed to the butchery after receiving information that their son was being robbed there. Upon arrival, they were allegedly forced inside the premises by armed suspects.
The suspects reportedly stole cellphones, cash, a laptop, and vehicle keys before fleeing the scene.
The couple’s stolen Ford Ranger was later found abandoned in Magogwe, while some of the stolen cellphones were recovered in a nearby field.
Four other suspects, aged between 21 and 37, were arrested earlier on Wednesday (29 April) during intelligence-driven operations in a settlement near Mmabatho.
Police recovered four firearms during the arrests, including a pistol linked to one of the victims.
The four accused appeared in the Mmabatho Magistrate’s Court on Thursday and remain in custody. They are expected to return to court on Wednesday, 6 May, for a formal bail application.
Police confirmed that investigations are ongoing and that further arrests cannot be ruled out.
R1 Million Lawsuit Threat Looms as 24-Hour Retraction Deadline Issued
PRETORIA – Julius Malema has moved swiftly to defend his reputation, threatening legal action against cultural activist and former radio presenter Ngizwe Mchunu over remarks allegedly made during a recent media interview.
Through his legal representatives at England Slabbert Attorneys, Malema is demanding R1 million in damages and has issued Mchunu with a 24-hour deadline to retract the statements.
The dispute centres on claims made during an interview with content creator King Zoso in Pretoria, where Mchunu allegedly accused Malema of receiving money from Nigerian drug dealers — an allegation his legal team has strongly denied.
Malema’s attorney, Angelike Charalambous, described the remarks as “false, malicious and defamatory,” arguing that they create the impression that the Economic Freedom Fighters leader is involved in criminal conduct.
She emphasised that Malema’s reputation is central to his role as both a Member of Parliament and leader of the EFF, and that the statements could cause significant harm to his public standing.
The legal letter further alleges that Mchunu’s comments were made with political intent ahead of the November local government elections, suggesting they were aimed at damaging both Malema’s image and the EFF’s electoral prospects. Mchunu is said to be aligned with the uMkhonto we Sizwe Party (MK Party).
Mchunu has been instructed to issue a public apology and withdraw the statements across all platforms where they were made — including his own social media accounts and the platform where the interview was broadcast.
Failure to comply within the 24-hour window, the letter warns, will trigger formal legal proceedings, which could include not only the R1 million damages claim but also a punitive costs order.
The case adds to a growing list of legal battles involving Malema, who has recently taken action against several public figures over alleged defamation, as political tensions continue to escalate ahead of the elections.
This article was originally posted by The South African
Loftus Showdown Could Decide the Betway Premiership — Pirates Watching Closely
The 2025/26 Betway Premiership title race is heading for a dramatic turning point as Mamelodi Sundowns prepare to host Kaizer Chiefs at Loftus Versfeld next week — a clash that could ultimately determine who lifts the trophy.
Kick-off is set for 19:30 on Wednesday, 6 May, with the match broadcast live on SuperSport channel 202.
But this is more than just another fixture — it’s a potential title decider.
Sundowns currently sit at the top of the standings with 61 points from 26 matches, holding a narrow advantage over Orlando Pirates, who trail by just two points on 59, having played the same number of games.
With only four matches remaining — and a maximum of 12 points still up for grabs — the margin for error has all but disappeared.
For Sundowns, the mission is straightforward: win all remaining games and secure the title. But the pressure is mounting, and any slip-up could swing momentum dramatically.
That’s where Chiefs enter the picture.
Although Amakhosi are no longer in contention for the title, they now find themselves in the role of kingmakers. A draw or victory against Sundowns would blow the race wide open — handing Pirates a lifeline and shifting control of the title battle.
And make no mistake, the Buccaneers will be watching every minute.
For Pirates supporters, this fixture carries enormous weight. A Sundowns stumble could put the title back within reach — but only if Pirates deliver a flawless finish in their remaining matches.
As anticipation builds, all eyes turn to Loftus Versfeld.
Because in a season defined by fine margins, this midweek clash could be the moment everything changes.
This article was originally posted by The South African
Duty-Free Access to World’s Biggest Market Signals Opportunity — But With Conditions
South Africa is poised for a major export uplift following China’s decision to introduce a temporary zero-tariff preference scheme for selected African economies — a move that could reshape trade flows and unlock new growth opportunities.
Announced by Chinese President Xi Jinping, the policy allows qualifying South African goods to enter China without customs duties from 1 May 2026 until 30 April 2028, giving local exporters unprecedented access to one of the world’s largest consumer markets.
At the centre of this breakthrough is the China-Africa Economic Partnership Agreement (CAEPA), which formalises duty-free access for 20 non-least developed African countries that maintain diplomatic ties with Beijing. The agreement complements existing trade frameworks under the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.
The impact is already visible.
According to Xinhua News Agency, 24 tons of South African apples became the first shipment to enter China under the new regime — a symbolic milestone marking the start of what could be a significant export surge.
Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau described the development as a strengthening of economic ties between Africa and China, opening the door for South African businesses to scale exports and deepen their participation in global value chains.
Big Opportunity — But Not Automatic
While the incentives are substantial, access to the zero-tariff regime comes with strict compliance requirements.
Exporters must meet detailed rules of origin criteria and provide valid certification to Chinese customs authorities. The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, working with the South African Revenue Service, is currently finalising procedures to support implementation.
Tau warned that failure to secure a Certificate of Origin before shipment could result in upfront costs, with importers required to pay deposits until proper documentation is submitted. Retrospective certificates will be allowed but must be clearly marked and will only remain valid for one year.
Additionally, some product categories may still face conditions such as tariff-rate quotas, meaning exporters will need to carefully navigate compliance rules to fully benefit.
What It Means for South Africa
The scheme is expected to deliver tangible economic gains:
Agricultural exports (like fruit, wine, and meat) could expand rapidly
Manufacturing and value-added goods may gain a competitive edge
Job creation could increase as export demand grows
Trade diversification reduces reliance on traditional Western markets
The initiative forms part of South Africa’s broader export strategy — including the so-called “Butterfly Strategy” — aimed at redirecting trade towards high-growth regions such as Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America.
Officials say the deal comes at a critical time, as global trade faces increasing uncertainty driven by protectionism and supply chain disruptions.
To support businesses, the dtic has activated an Export Help Desk and will release detailed guidance to help companies navigate the new system.
A Strategic Shift in Global Trade
Beyond immediate gains, the agreement signals a deeper shift in global economic alignment — with Africa and China strengthening trade ties in a way that could reshape long-term market dynamics.
“This preferential access offers a real opportunity for South African firms to scale up exports,” Tau said.
But the real test will lie in execution.
Because while the door to China is now wide open — only those prepared to meet the requirements will be able to walk through it.
This article was originally posted by the Business Report
