South Africa invested just 13.9% of GDP in buildings, machinery and equipment in 2025, less than half the National Development Plan’s 30% target. Declining public investment, capital outflows and policy uncertainty continue to weigh on economic growth and investor confidence. South Africa’s investment levels have fallen sharply over the past decade, raising concerns about the country’s ability to grow its economy, create jobs and maintain essential infrastructure. According to the Centre for Risk Analysis (CRA)

Johannesburg’s financial crisis has intensified after Agence Française de Développement (AFD) refused a request for additional financing, citing compliance and governance concerns. The decision adds fresh strain to South Africa’s largest city, which is already grappling with budget instability and declining service delivery. Loan compliance issues trigger funding refusal According to sources familiar with the matter, AFD declined the request because the City of Johannesburg allegedly failed to meet the terms of a R2.5 billion

Elon Musk has alleged that his satellite internet company, Starlink, faced bribery demands while trying to secure a telecoms licence in South Africa — intensifying an ongoing dispute over B-BBEE regulations and market access. Musk alleges bribery and discrimination In a post on X, Musk claimed Starlink was repeatedly offered the chance to obtain a licence by misrepresenting ownership to meet local requirements. “We were offered many times the opportunity to bribe our way to

South African stocks are on track for their worst monthly performance in nearly two decades, with the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) under heavy pressure from declining metal prices and a sharp pullback in investor sentiment. The FTSE/JSE All Share Index has fallen 13% for the month through March 27, marking its steepest drop since the Global Financial Crisis. This downturn follows an exceptional run of 12 consecutive monthly gains through February—the longest streak on record.

TotalEnergies has increased diesel prices across South Africa, with pump prices now reaching R27.50 per litre at selected service stations. The sharp rise comes as the country faces a fuel supply crunch, rising global oil costs, and a surge in diesel demand. Reports indicate that the price hike was first observed at a TotalEnergies station in Douglasdale, Johannesburg. According to a leaked communication to station owners, the company instructed a gradual diesel price increase of