Electoral system expert Dr. Michael Louis, who is also the founder of The Independent Candidates Association, tells BizNews viewers why a constitutional provision will prevent former President Jacob Zuma’s MK party from sabotaging Parliament. “I think that any boycott plans and things definitely won't work.” He also describes how President Cyril Ra…

In his regular monthly review, Corion’s David Bacher explains how markets were on edge in May during the run-up to Election Day - and how investors remain nervous as politicians consider the binary choice that will determine the country’s future. He also highlights the awful share price performance of SA’s cell phone giants over the past ten years …

The United States fears that “any coalition government” in South Africa would be unstable and might not hold. This is the concern shared by a former diplomat to both South African governments, Dr. Edward Mienie, who is the Executive Director and Professor of Strategic & Security Studies & External Relations at the University of North Georgia in the…

Patriotic Alliance president Gayton McKenzie believes the business community and global markets are disrespecting the will of SA’s people by pushing the ANC into a partnership with the DA. He argues that this is driven by financial motives and a “Save Ramaphosa” agenda - but it is the wrong path for a country that has sent a clear message that it w…

Since 1929, the Institute of Race Relations has delivered the facts and provided evidence-based guidance, serving SA as the ultimate ’truth to power” voice. In this interview, CEO John Endres explains why we are at a pivotal moment, and how it happened that the country’s future has been entrusted to a few dozen people - members of the ANC’s ‘collec…

In typically outspoken style, business activist Rob Hersov airs uncomfortable truths in this interview - warning that the Kremlin-funded MK party poses a massive threat to the rest of South Africa. His forthright advice to the ANC leadership and their still-to-be-confirmed coalition partners is to support KZN’s secession from SA and let the MK-domi…

Popular BizNews Premium columnist RW Johnson has been deeply involved in this year’s Election, working behind the scenes at broadcaster eNCA. Now the dust has settled, he outlines the key consequences - explaining why the ANC will partner with the DA; and an MK/IFP coalition work together to run an increasingly independent KZN. He spoke to BizNews …

The South African political era has now moved into a radical and separatist State. That is the warning from Neil de Beer, the President of the United Independent Movement (UIM). In this interview with BizNews, De Beer says: “MK, ANC, EFF, PA are no doubt radical parties. They are a radical entity with a radical philosophy of national, Socialistic, …

With results of South Africa’s watershed election now baked in, political scientist Dr Frans Cronje says the country faces a one-off, historic opportunity to catapult ahead. Whether or not it happens depends entirely on which way a badly bruised ANC jumps. The High Road lies in an ANC which opts to embrace a working partnership with the DA, IFP and…

South Africa is entering a phase of “necessary uncertainty” following the ruling African National Congress’ (ANC) poor performance in the elections and the surge of former President Jacob Zuma’s new MK party. So says Dr Ina Gouws of the Department of Political Studies and Governance at the University of the Free State. “I understand that South Afri…

The Election’24 collapse of a once-impregnable ANC has thrown up numerous options for South Africa - and politicians entrusted by the electorate to turn around a country that has been sliding for over a decade. The longest serving Member of South Africa’s Parliament, Dr Corne’ Mulder of FF+, explains the options being presented to the newly elected…

Among the major stories of Election’24 is a surging Patriotic Alliance, the ten year old political party which will now be sending its first MPs to the National Assembly - and also filling a significant number of seats in provincial parliaments. The PA’s strategist Charles Cilliers speaks to us from the Results Operating Centre in Gauteng, sharing …

An “astonishing” performance by former President Jacob Zuma’s MK party means the ruling African National Congress (ANC) might lose its majority in KZN - and fail to reach a national majority. In this interview with BizNews, Ray Hartley of the Brenthurst Foundation says that - with about 13% of votes counted - the ANC is probably going to come in be…

With around a fifth of the votes counted, Free Market Foundation CEO David Ansara offers some early conclusions on South Africa’s historic Election’24. With the ANC set to lose 60 of its 230 seats (of 400 in total), Jacob Zuma’s well funded MK and to a lesser extent the breakout Patriotic Alliance parties disrupting the status quo, the country well…

President Cyril Ramaphosa enacted the NHI law during the election campaign, representing the biggest shake-up in South Africa’s healthcare system since the dawn of democracy. Critics have warned that the scheme is hugely expensive and could fuel corruption, with opposition parties describing it as a "death warrant" for healthcare in South Africa. G…

A 21% jump in Special Votes and near trebling of the out-of-country votes provides clear evidence of a surge in interest around Election’24. In this special broadcast, we hear from two Smart Alecs - the Financial Times’s foreign editor Alec Russell and his namesake, BizNews editor Alec Hogg. The FT looks at the global relevance while BizNews looks …

President Cyril Ramaphosa enacted the NHI law during the election campaign, representing the biggest shake-up in South Africa’s healthcare system since the dawn of democracy. Critics have warned that the scheme is hugely expensive and could fuel corruption, with opposition parties describing it as a "death warrant" for healthcare in South Africa. G…

We have passed 50 days without load shedding in South Africa, even as the cold of winter begins to bite when electricity demand normally increases. The CEO of the Energy Council, James McKay, told BizNews in an interview that the lack of load shedding is due to a partnership that the government formed with the business sector. While business “is no…

At the halfway mark in the Local v Offshore investment challenge, Magnus Heystek’s foreign holdings have recovered from an appalling start to move into positive territory. Piet Viljoen’s SA-focused portfolio, however, still has a handy lead although is enjoying “a breather” ahead of a potential surge on the Election’24 results. They spoke to BizNew…

After recording just 6 660 votes in the 2019 National election, Patriotic Alliance leader Gayton McKenzie forecasts a massive breakthough in Election’24. The PA leader predicts his party will receive around 1m votes and secure 25 Members of Parliament in the National Assembly. McKenzie believes this will be a watershed with South Africans rejecting…

One of the toughest battles in Election’24 is the Democratic Alliance’s bid to schieve more than 50% of the Western Cape votes - the only province where it currently governs. South Africa’s longest serving member of Paliament, FF+ Chief Whip Dr Corne’ Mulder, believes with his party, the Patriotic Alliance and Action SA poised for good showings on …

“…there are people that are rising and there are people that are falling…the dirty games are coming out...It's a nasty campaign, it's a dark campaign, and I predict in the next three days it's going to get worse.” These are the words of Neil de Beer, the President of the United Independent Movement (UIM). In this interview with BizNews, he dissects…

While Jacob Zuma’s recently launched MK Party has drawn a lot of airtime, at the coalface the IFP is confident of continuing a resurgence reflected in its 15-1 winning record against the ANC in post November 2021 by-elections. Leader Velenkosini Hlabisa says another pointer to a superior performance in Election’24 is comparing crowds drawn in elect…

Over the past few weeks we’ve highlighted how South Africa is poised for a massive upgrade in the talent occupying its Parliamentary benches. As political competition intensifies with the imminent loss of the ANC’s majority, new faces and new parties are being drawn in. Among them are ActionSA’s Athol Trollip and Pieter Scribante who share insights…

In a Q&A session at the BizNews London Conference, Alec Hogg and Sean Peche discussed investment strategies, focusing on the potential risks and benefits of current tech stocks and the importance of value investing. Peche emphasised the necessity of evaluating a company's intrinsic worth before investing and highlighted opportunities outside the U.…

In a discussion led by Alec Hogg, GG Alcock and Warren Wheatley addressed South Africa's economic transformation, comparing it to historical periods of rapid wealth creation. They highlighted the burgeoning entrepreneurial spirit within townships, the shift towards digital transactions, and the resilience of informal economies. Challenges such as l…

After a four-year hiatus, South Africa has returned to the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show in London this year. Their exhibition, which showcased the Cape Mountains and South Africa’s biodiversity, featuring proteas and fynbos, won a Gold Medal, ‘Best Exhibit in the Pavilion,’ and ‘Best New Design’ awards. South Africa has participated in the show …

Andrew Middleton, GoSolr CEO, discussed the significant investments from Standard Bank, an international climate-focused investor, and African Rainbow Capital in his solar energy company. He highlighted South Africa's energy crisis, emphasising the potential for solar solutions despite current challenges. Middleton advocates for local investment, c…

During a Q&A session at the BizNews conference in London, Alec Hogg spoke to forensic investigator Paul O’Sullivan on crime in South Africa. O’Sullivan highlighted the dire state of the SAPS police force, unable to handle the crime volume due to poor resource allocation. He shared cases of rampant white-collar crime and emphasized the need for impr…

*This content is brought to you by Jaltech On 23 May, Alec Hogg and Jonty Sacks hosted a highly informative webinar aimed at helping investors significantly reduce their tax bills. The session focused on strategies for individuals, companies, and trusts with capital gains tax or income tax obligations, providing insights on how to lower taxable inc…

Eskom chairman Mteto Nyati says cynics are wrong to claim it will be back to loadshedding hell after Election’24 on May 29. He reckons SA’s longest loadshedding-free run in years is based on a solid foundation. The mechanical engineer with an impeccable business pedigree explains how SA’s much improved electricity supply is the result of applying s…

‘China is very much on our radar,’ US economy shows unexpected resilience - Mark Perchtold (OMBA) Mark Perchtold, the founding director of OMBA, a company specialising in using Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), maintains a positive outlook on China despite geopolitical challenges. In an interview with BizNews, Perchtold attributes his outlook on China …

While media and polling narratives might suggest otherwise, South African elections are won or lost on logistics - the practicality of actually getting voters to the polls and having party faithful there to welcome them. Former DA Leader Mmusi Maimane reminds us of reality in a pre-election interview where the Presidential candidate discloses BOSA’…

In "How to Fix (Unfxck) a Country," economist Dr. Roy Havemann unveils a roadmap to reboot South Africa post-State Capture. Through his exploration of the six fundamental "E's" – Eskom, Education, Environment, Exports, Equality, and Ethics – Havemann offers practical strategies gleaned from global experiences. Drawing from consultations with esteem…

In a dynamic Q&A between Alec Hogg and James Lorimer, the shadow minister of Mineral Resources, the discussion spans from Namibia's significant oil finds to South Africa's energy landscape. Lorimer highlights potential job creation and revenue influx from oil and gas, while acknowledging policy hurdles. With insights into fracking, renewable energy…

At the BizNews Conference in London, Frans Cronje discussed the ANC's electoral prospects, the influence of Jacob Zuma, and the dynamics between the ANC and EFF. He analysed the ANC's strategic behavior and potential alliances, emphasizing the pragmatic and cautious approach the party often takes. Cronje highlighted the complexities within the ANC …

Political veteran and long-time leader of the Official Opposition, Tony Leon, shares his perspectives on next week’s South African elections. With the Big Vote a week away, Leon judges which the parties campaigns he reckons have been successful - and not. And tells BizNews editor Alec Hogg what will be occupying the minds of the political leaders i…

Self-made business mogul turned politician Herman Mashaba, is confident Action SA will be the surprise package of South Africa’s 2024 National and Provincial elections. He says hard work over the past three years; a campaign that resonates with all races; and a God-centred approach is set to catapult ActionSA from its excellent debut in 2021 into m…

While South Africa grapples with high unemployment rates, a critical shortage of skilled professionals persists. The Department of Home Affairs’ critical skills list, released in October 2023, highlights the acute demand for business managers, project managers, customer service professionals, supply chain experts, and engineers. Traditionally, thes…

With only a week to go before the most important election since 1994, many South Africans are still not sure which party to vote for. BizNews asked Dr. Ina Gouws of the Department of Political Studies and Governance at the University of the Free State to give viewers an objective and unbiased overview of the manifestos of five parties that are curr…

As the crucial 29 May elections draw near, financial markets are seemingly wagering on the ANC losing its majority and forming a coalition with right-of-centre minor parties. Dawie Roodt, an economist from the Efficient Group, shared with Biznews that the financial markets are already factoring in a favourable outcome, as evidenced by the robust pe…

At the BizNews Conference in London, GG Alcock captivated the audience with his remarkable life story, transitioning from a mud hut in rural KwaZulu-Natal to becoming a successful entrepreneur. Raised by activist parents in conditions without electricity or running water, Alcock learned resilience and adaptability early on. Despite never attending …

At the BizNews Conference in London, AltVest Capital Limited CEO Warren Wheatley highlighted the transformative impact of his company on South Africa's informal and SME sectors. Wheatley passionately described how AltVest's innovative platform democratises investment opportunities, allowing everyday South Africans to fund and grow local businesses.…

In this pre-election interview with BizNews, United Independent Movement (UIM) President Neil de Beer says his party will deal “harshly” with the matter of its youth leader, Devon Hofmeyr, attending a gala fundraiser for former President Jacob Zuma's MK Party. He vows the UIM will not form any alliances with the ruling African National Congress (AN…

At the BizNews Conference in London, Sean Peche, the founder of Ranmore, captivated the audience with humour and sharp insights. Sharing his journey from a challenging flight to profound investment strategies, he emphasised the cyclical nature of markets and the importance of recognising value traps. Highlighting opportunities beyond North America,…

In a gripping keynote at the BizNews Conference in London, renowned forensic investigator and Certified Fraud Examiner Paul O’Sullivan exposed the alarming vulnerabilities of WhatsApp as a tool for intelligence gathering, while painting a bleak picture of South Africa's future. Highlighting rampant corruption, infrastructural decay, and governmenta…

GoSolr CEO Andrew Middleton electrified the audience at the BizNews Conference in London with his optimistic keynote on the transformative power of solar energy. Emphasising South Africa's immense solar potential, Middleton highlighted GoSolr's innovative subscription model, which has made solar energy accessible to thousands of households. He unde…

The new Hate Speech Law could see critics of government policy on social media prosecuted and jailed - if their criticism is deemed to cause emotional or psychological harm to government officials or supporters. This is the warning from Ismail Joosub, the Legal Officer of Constitutional Programmes at The FW De Klerk Foundation, and a candidate MP f…

In a riveting keynote address at the BizNews Conference in London, DA Shadow Minister of Mining, James Lorimer MP, unveiled groundbreaking discoveries reshaping the nation's energy landscape. With the revelation of vast gas and oil reservoirs beneath Mpumalanga's soil and offshore along the Orange Basin, South Africa stands at the cusp of an econom…

Dr. Frans Cronje, Chair of the Social Research Foundation (SRF), delivered a captivating keynote speech at the BizNews Conference in London, offering a thought-provoking analysis of South Africa's political landscape. Drawing from decades of data and observation, Dr. Cronje outlined a nuanced vision of the country's trajectory, emphasizing shifts i…