SME optimism fades as confidence slips
Business Partners’ Q1 2025 SME Confidence Index finds early-year optimism has been eroded – driven chiefly by budget uncertainty, a R75bn revenue shortfall and global volatility.
Author: Moonstone Information Refinery
SCA rules municipalities liable for unrepaired hazards after toddler drowns
The judgment confirms that municipalities can be held legally responsible when known public dangers, such as an uncovered stormwater drain, lead to injury or death.
Levies payable to the FSCA set to rise in 2025/26
The proposed amendments will also see increases in the Tribunal levy and the FAIS Ombud’s charge per KI/representative.
Self-Comply gets smarter: tailored compliance for your small business
Moonstone’s enhanced Self-Comply Service gives small FSPs and sole proprietors even stronger compliance support, including dedicated consultants, customised plans, and proactive monitoring.
Gender-neutral surname ruling shakes up families and institutions
Employers, banks, insurers, and other identity-verifying bodies must accept surname assumptions by any spouse and update onboarding and benefits procedures accordingly.
Study smarter in 2026: MBSE registrations are now open
Kickstart your career with MBSE’s accredited online qualifications – from certificates to its new future-ready BCom degree.
Momentum posts record earnings, but VNB under pressure from annuity mix
Despite a 20% drop in the value of new business, Momentum’s annuity earnings remain strong and underlying profitability resilient, lifting normalised headline earnings 41%.
Regulators invite comment on draft IT and cyber incident reporting rules
Financial institutions subject to Joint Standards 1 of 2023 and 2 of 2024 are asked to provide feedback by 5 October 2025.
FAIS Ombud proposes no levy increase in 2026/27
Advocate John Simpson publishes his Office’s draft budget for public comment.
Road risks climb: Why clients can’t afford to skimp on car insurance
South Africa ranks 4th worst in the world for road safety, with rising accident claims underscoring the need for appropriate protection.
Premium growth fuels 33.7% jump in OUTsurance’s profits
Youi delivered strong performance in Australia, but the rand’s appreciation trimmed rand-translated premiums.
PA publishes its proposed levy and fee increases for 2026/27
The Authority expects to reduce its budget deficit by 28%, driven by a 3.3% revenue uplift and planned cost-cutting measures to streamline operations.
SCA clarifies legality of ‘on-the-road fees’ in vehicle finance agreements
The Court says credit providers must ensure full transparency in disclosing the nature, cost, and financing implications of these charges.
Business groups criticise withdrawal of NCA amendments
The Regulations have allowed credit bureaus to obtain consumer information from educational institutions for the past 19 years.
An out-of-date will can be as risky as having no will at all
Marriage, divorce, children, or business changes – life doesn’t stand still, and neither should your will. Wills Week is a reminder to act now.
Policy breaches alone are not enough to justify debarment
The Tribunal said allegations of not following sales scripts may breach internal policy but do not in themselves demonstrate dishonesty or a lack of integrity.
R9.2m RAF claim crashes over tailgating and lack of proof
A High Court ruling shows that failing to keep a safe following distance – and failing to back up your story with solid evidence – can cost you your case as well as your claim.
