Tag: interest rates

In a realm marked by economic flux and financial ambiguity, the connotation of "debt" has assumed multifaceted dimensions. While the term itself often carries unfavourable implications, there exists a select set of financial obligations that the citizens of South Africa should not shy away from embracing in 2023.

If you’re reading this, there’s a very good chance you’re already familiar with Environmental Social Governance (ESG). ESG is a constantly evolving standard that emphasises the importance of doing business in a way that positively impacts the environment, society and stakeholders.

For those who have just won the Lotto – or in a more likely scenario – are exceptionally good at saving - choosing to buy a home in cash can have its advantages. However, this option also means forgoing tax benefits, and tying up a substantial amount of hard cash in a fixed asset for a long period of time.

Of the companies we research, the tobacco industry has some of the best structural fundamentals. Tobacco consumption is relatively price-inelastic, which means that price increases can make up for falls in sales volumes. Taxes make up a large portion of sale prices.

The journey to joint home ownership can be an exciting one and may improve your chances of being approved for a home loan. However, whether you are financing a home as a couple (married or unmarried), as business partners or even as friends, a home loan is a serious and long-term financial commitment.

Purchasing a home is one of the most significant financial decisions most people make in their lifetime. This requires careful consideration and planning, especially in today's economic climate, where interest rates are skyrocketing, and income is not set in stone.

A record amount of R1.6 trillion is currently held in South African bank accounts as retail savings deposits. This is a staggering amount of money which is currently conservatively invested. In many ways, this movement of funds reflects the significant uncertainties faced by investors, both in South Africa and globally.

Determining the true market value of a home is about more than design, amenities, kerb appeal, location and size. While those are of course important elements of home valuations, they only paint half the picture for buyers and sellers looking to enter into property transactions.

Rolling blackouts and the recently imposed 18.65% Eskom tariff hikes from April next month are likely to place additional stress on the South African consumer and businesses to the extent that further bankruptcies are inevitable. With the prospect of higher interest rates, low growth and still high inflation, many companies could face corporate failures particularly in the early part of 2023.

As we move into 2023, many small and medium enterprise (SME) owners and leaders anticipate another difficult year. Yet they are comfortable knowing they've endured a lot since the start of the pandemic. SMEs have survived, and some have even thrived, despite COVID-19, unrest, extreme weather, the global energy crisis, and the return of high inflation and rising interest rates.