Tag: DigitalFinance

South Africa’s next wave of credit growth will come from a generation that is digitally fluent, economically active, and increasingly reliant on credit to navigate rising living costs. Yet, this generation remains largely invisible to traditional credit systems. According to TransUnion, only 28% of South African Gen Z consumers over the age of 18 are credit active. This highlights the challenge lenders face when assessing first-time borrowers.

For most of the past decade, African fintech was a land grab. Valuations rewarded user numbers. Interfaces became flashier. “Disruption” became the pitch that attracted capital investment. From the outside, it was clear that the model was running hotter than it could sustain. However, that era is over.

April’s Financial Literacy Month provides an opportunity to reflect on progress. It also highlights where the next phase of financial inclusion must focus. While access remains foundational, the real challenge lies in outcomes. Specifically, credit must deliver sustainable and positive results for consumers. Over the past decade, South Africa has expanded access to financial services. This progress has strengthened financial inclusion across the country.

Looking ahead to 2026, fintech will transform how financial services are delivered and accessed. Rapid technological innovation and shifting market dynamics drive this change. Key areas include machine learning, payments, crypto and blockchain, open finance, embedded finance and investment platforms.