Tax compliance is easier, but corporates’ trust in SARS remains split
PwC finds a downward trend in penalties and verification risk. Yet corporate taxpayers continue to voice concerns over consistency, fairness, and accessing SARS support.
Industry News
South Africa ranks second in Africa’s Organised Crime Index 2025
The Index flags Africa as a testing ground for ransomware and DDoS attacks. High incident volumes and ‘ransomware-as-a-service’ models raise insurance, compliance, and continuity costs for businesses.
Moody’s sees SA recovery taking shape by 2026
The ratings agency says long-awaited reforms could finally lift South Africa onto a firmer growth path, with momentum expected to build steadily from 2026.
SARB clarifies 3% inflation target as policy shifts draw mixed reactions
The MPC’s first rate cut in months underscores the SARB’s view that a lower target can support a gradual easing cycle.
Regulator seeks court test to settle whether telemarketing falls under POPIA
The Information Regulator will push a test case to confirm whether unsolicited telephone calls qualify as ‘electronic communication’ under POPIA.
Adjudicator upholds R4.5m allocation after wife fails to prove financial dependency
The customary wife failed to substantiate her claims of financial dependency and was shown to be estranged from the deceased.
How AI is changing search, and what it means for Google, ChatGPT and the open web
The use of generative AI in search is on the rise and has profound implications for search engines like Google, as well as for companies that rely on clicks to make sales.
Court shuts down attempt to ‘run out the clock’ on consumer complaint
The judgment confirms that the National Consumer Commission can pursue suppliers for ongoing misconduct – even when they try to stall a complaint into expiry.
Information Regulator turns to SAPS over PAIA non-compliance
The Regulator’s recent enforcement notices relate to, among other cases, Jacob Zuma’s tax records and payments by the State Security Agency.
Insurance tops consumer sentiment rankings despite service failings
DataEQ’s 2025 Index shows that insurers’ positive brand campaigns are undermined by operational weaknesses in claims, billing, and responsiveness.
Insider knowledge abused: ex-SARS auditor jailed for fabricated VAT claims
The former SARS employee and tax practitioner submitted false VAT returns and forged documents that led to R1.58m in improper refunds.
Coronation grows AUM 14% as outperformance trumps local headwinds
The asset manager lifted revenue by 10%, but headline EPS declined year-on-year once the prior period’s R561m SARS tax recovery fell away.
What employees should know about year-end bonuses
Employees don’t have a statutory right to a year-end bonus – payment depends on contract, collective agreement, policy, or binding past practice.
Treasury calls for technical tax proposals ahead of 2026 Budget
National Treasury is inviting submissions of technical tax proposals for possible inclusion in Annexure C of next year’s Budget Review.
‘Be sceptical’: FSCA flags fresh spike in social-media investment scams
A string of new cases shows how fraudsters are mimicking brands, cloning FSP numbers and impersonating officials to steal funds.
Treasury upbeat on near-term tax haul, but flags medium-term shortfalls
The MTBPS raises the 2025/26 gross revenue estimate by R19.7bn but warns of a R15.7bn shortfall against Budget estimates for 2026/27.
RAF interim board faces scrutiny amid executive suspensions and reform plans
Deputy Minister of Transport provides updates on plans for a permanent RAF board, the Road Accident Benefits Scheme Bill, and appointing a new CEO.
