Ithala pulled back from the edge, but its future remains in doubt
The Prudential Authority has withdrawn its liquidation bid after progress on depositor repayments, but Ithala is still unlicensed and cannot resume deposit-taking.
#NationalTreasury
Draft policy reframes financial education as a core conduct requirement
National Treasury’s draft framework signals tighter expectations for how firms deliver, integrate, and measure financial education.
Godongwana appoints Thabiso Thiti as new FIC director
His five-year term begins in mid-April as the government looks to sustain momentum ahead of the upcoming FATF evaluation.
Fuel relief now, answers later as the government buys time on price shock
A R3-per-litre levy cut cushions April’s fuel spike, but rising oil prices and expiring relief point to steep increases ahead.
FSCA’s financial education Conduct Standard comes into force
With the transition period now over, financial institutions that offer education initiatives must align with the FSCA’s requirements on governance, evaluation, and accountability.
Industry outlines priorities to address liquidity and access in SA capital markets
Listings reform, settlement changes, retail participation, and infrastructure upgrades feature as ways to strengthen market depth and competitiveness.
Budget 2026: why advisers should revisit every client plan
From CGT thresholds to small business tax and foreign allowances, Ronald King identifies the changes that could materially reshape financial plans.
Holding the line: fiscal discipline takes centre stage
National Treasury Director-General Duncan Pieterse says South Africa’s core fiscal challenge is structurally low economic growth that trails population expansion.
Income tax brackets, medical tax credits adjusted for inflation
The government finally cuts payers of personal income tax some slack – and increases the medical scheme tax credits.
Changes to CGT, tax-free savings, retirement contributions, and donations
Treasury also proposes new thresholds at which fund members and living annuitants can commute to a cash lump sum.
Money talks: what the 2026 Budget says about government’s priorities
A tighter, more disciplined Budget channels spending into social support and infrastructure while cutting waste to avoid tax hikes.
Is South Africa finally turning the corner on debt?
While borrowing remains substantial, improving bond yields, firmer revenue, and reduced debt-service growth suggest a more credible consolidation path.
Increase in the VAT registration threshold
The tax regime for small and micro-businesses will also be adjusted for inflation.
Treasury signals overhaul of CIS taxation
The proposal is to reclassify all returns from collective investment schemes and retail hedge funds as capital gains.
New deadline to comment on draft AML/CFT Bill
The legislation will strengthen reporting and governance obligations across the non-profit, corporate, and financial sectors.
Covid SRD grant extended pending regulatory amendments
Draft amendments to the SRD Regulations have been published to give effect to the grant’s continuation from April 2026 to March 2027.
Key fintech policy developments to watch in 2026
Regulatory initiatives across payments, digital assets, open finance and embedded finance are expected to progress this year.
