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South Africans have developed inventive ways of tackling what the Automobile Association estimates to be a staggering 25 million potholes nationwide. Children have turned cavernous craters into makeshift swimming holes, and in Pretoria North, a local councillor planted trees in potholes as a form of protest. Across the country, private citizens and businesses alike have stepped up. One corporate player making a notable impact is Discovery Insure, which has helped fill 280,000 potholes in Johannesburg over the past four years. Discovery's Chief Commercial Officer, Precious Nduli, told BizNews the initiative is a partnership with the City of Johannesburg and the Johannesburg Roads Agency. Their mandate focuses on repairing smaller potholes, and they've even established a Pothole Repair Academy - yes, "pothole repairer" now appears to be an official trade. Nduli noted that beyond the physical improvements, initiatives like these speak to something deeper. Restoring what's broken restores a sense of collective optimism and perfectly embodies the South African spirit of tackling problems head-on. – Linda van Tilburg

The African National Congress' (ANC's) collaboration with the IRGC (The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps) “is akin to them being complicit in the mass murder and genocide of black Christians throughout Africa through IRGC funded terrorist entities”. That is the charge from Brooke Goldstein, the executive director of the Lawfare Project, who says black African Christians throughout the Middle East were also being slaughtered by Islamist terrorist groups funded by Iran. In this interview with BizNews, She warns: “…it's dangerous because again, ANC members can be sanctioned, their accounts can be sanctioned. I think that's really where we're going… And so the ANC really has to look long and hard to see what they're doing and at what cost their relationship with the IRGC.” She also warns that millions of dollars of funding from the United States for the University of Cape Town (UCT) is at risk because members of Hamas and Hezbollah have allegedly addressed students on campus. Giving an update on the war in the Middle East, she says: “All of the Iranian regime proxies are still active. They still have weapons. They still have declared war. There's Muslim Brotherhood sleeper cells, Hamas and Hezbollah sleeper cells around the world. They are continuing to threaten world stability and security. I don't think the '12 Day War' is really an accurate description of what's going on here.”

In this webinar, Alec Hogg hosts Jonty Sacks of Jaltech and Vincent Maposa of solar subscription firm Wetility to unpack a rare investment opportunity that blends attractive yields with powerful Section 12B tax incentives. Discover how investors can offset up to 235% of their investment against taxable income - potentially recovering more than their full capital outlay in year one - while funding thousands of solar installations across South Africa. With low default rates, a robust partner in Wetility, and unmatched diversification through a residential-focused model, this structure offers more than just returns: it's a stake in solving SA's energy crisis. For more information, visit - https://bit.ly/3Td3PTB.

The Patriotic Alliance (PA) has shown huge gains in by-elections at the expense of both the African National Congress (ANC) and the Democratic Alliance (DA). In his latest interview with BizNews, elections analyst Wayne Sussman describes how the DA and the ANC are being affected by the PA's performances “across the length and breadth” of the Western Cape. “And this is a huge marker on the road to 2026. And Gayton McKenzie and the PA will be celebrating this victory today.” He was speaking after the PA's shock win in Mossel Bay last night. Sussman also analyses the DA performance in Tshwane where it held a ward last night, as well as the ANC seeing “some recovery” in Mpumalanga. Sussman further dissects the latest dramatic developments in the City of Joburg where the ANC Mayor survived a Vote of Confidence, but the ActionSA Speaker was ousted.

On today's BizNews Briefing, President Ramaphosa defended BEE in the NCOP, calling it vital for growth and a "national project," dismissing claims it hinders investment. He proposed an "equity equivalent" model for firms like Starlink to invest while prioritising transformation. IRR's Marius Roodt labelled Ramaphosa's BEE stance "empty rhetoric," advocating economic growth over redistribution. Dr. Corné Mulder criticised BEE as punishing future generations, urging equal opportunities. Afrikaner delegates met White House officials to rebuild ties. Accounting firms eye IPOs, and the Springboks face the Barbarians this weekend, 30 years after their 1995 Rugby World Cup triumph.

Donald Trump lashes out with an F-bomb over Israel-Iran ceasefire breaches, sparking global concern. Paul Mashatile faces scrutiny over alleged Lotto licence meddling, while DA youth leaders warn MP Liam Jacobs may regret his defection to the Patriotic Alliance. Finance Minister Godongwana's proposal for full state funding of political parties draws fire from Neil de Beer, calling it “DoF Moment No. 2.”

Trade and Industry Minister Parks Tau was “surprised” by the links of Deputy President Paul Mashatile to the new Lotto licensee appointed by him at the end of May. So says Toby Chance, the Democratic Alliance (DA) spokesperson on Trade, Industry and Competition, after the Minister was questioned today. “Minister Tau didn't appear to be aware of it, which raises serious questions of due diligence in the Lottery adjudication process.” Chance says there are lots of unanswered questions “and unfortunately, it's a classic case - yet again - of how State Capture and corruption works. It's a dubious connection between politicians, business people and public officials. which has led to the downfall of so many of our institutions.” Chance adds that the corruption charges laid against the Deputy President by the DA over a year ago are still pending. “And so I think that what Mr. Tau is able to uncover, if he does go ahead with this investigation into Sizekhaya's shareholding, could be the beginning of a slippery slope for the Deputy President.”

The shock defection from the Democratic Alliance to the Patriotic Alliance of Liam Jacobs has opened a can of worms. In this interview with BizNews, interim DA Youth Federal Leader Ndipiwe Olayi describes the reasons Jacobs put forward as “really unfair and untrue”. He recalls being with Jacobs the day before he made the announcement when “he was actually celebrating how the DA has been performing”. Olayi notes that in Jacobs's live social media appearance “he was a bit manic - and it was hysterical to be very honest… And I think he will come to regret that decision.” Oyali also outlines what it takes to rise to the highest office in the DA Youth; his own track record in local government; his future politicas aspirations - and the vision of the DA Youth to deal with especially rampant youth unemployment. He has harsh words for the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) where “board members and individuals that are employed in the structure are employing cronies aligned to the ANC (African National Congress) Youth League. And we find that this billion-ran budget, if not more, because it gets a lot of investment from the private sector as well, it's mismanaged and misused.”

On today's BizNews Briefing, Tuesday, Trump claims an Israel-Iran ceasefire is in effect, urging on Truth Social: “Do not violate it!” Bloomberg notes that fighting persists. Iran's 400 kg+ near-weapons-grade uranium raises US-Israel concerns, per the Financial Times. In Washington, Freedom Front Plus' Corné Mulder pushes US partnerships, criticising ANC's Western alienation. Hudson Institute's webinar with Mulder's delegation warns ANC policies drive South Africa's decline. DA's Toby Chance slams Musina-Makhado as a wasteful project. Amabhungane reveals lottery tender ties to Deputy President Mashatile's sister-in-law.

In 2018, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the Musina Makhado Special Economic Zone intended to attract more than R40 billion in investment. Seven years later, Toby Chance, the Democratic Alliance's spokesperson on Trade, Industry and Competition describes how expenditure has run into “hundreds of millions of rands” with planned expenditure of “upwards of two billion Rand over the next couple of years” while “most of the work has been abandoned…uncompleted roads…electricity that hasn't been connected…huge dumps of materials that are sort of sitting idle”. However, one of two investors, a Chinese mining company, has already started clearing large areas on the south side to expose the coal seams. This as several civil societies are trying to stop the SEZ project with lawsuits. Eventually, it will be the call of Environment Minister Dr Dion George. “He has the power to effectively close it down, which unfortunately will cause a bit of a stink with the Minister Mineral Resources, Mr Mantashe - being Mr Coal in this country - because the whole development, certainly on the south side, is based on a massive exploitation of the coal fields. He would be keen to see that happening. A lot of contestation at Cabinet level and we say bring it on…”

On today's BizNews Briefing, US airstrikes on Iran's nuclear facilities escalate Middle East tensions, with President Trump pushing for talks or regime change. South Africa's Cyril Ramaphosa seeks to mediate, but UIM's Neil de Beer slams his “detached” stance on BizNews' Sunday Show. Treasury's Ismail Momoniat is optimistic about exiting the FATF greylist, while Sakeliga's Russell Lamberti warns that the new Employment Equity Act could choke businesses. Plus, Tesla's robotaxi hits Austin's streets, marking a driverless milestone

In the latest Sunday Show with Neil De Beer, the President of the United Independent Movement, and Chris Steyn of BizNews, a range of hot topics are on the agenda: President Cyril Ramaphosa telling Israel and Iran to enter into peaceful dialogue; Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana wanting full public funding for all political parties; the over R200 million spent on international travel by Cabinet members over the past year; Deputy President Paul Mashatile and his wife's accommodation in Japan costing R900,000 for four nights; military officials also splurging on world travel while the South African National Defense Force (SANDF) is sitting with a 41.2 billion Rand budget shortfall; the ongoing chaos at former President Jacob Zuma's MKP; the likelihood of Democratic Alliance (DA) Federal Council Chair Helen Zille running for Jo'burg Mayor; the Eastern Cape African National Congress (ANC) denying that the regional office hid blankets destined for the victims of the recent disaster in Mthatha; the Bela Bill battle - and the need for a revision of the Constitution. De Beer also shares the results of his Twitter Poll in which 98.2% of respondents said “No” to the National Dialogue. And he delves into the feuds that may see former Zambian President Edgar Lungu buried on South African soil.

After years of institutional decay and global embarrassment, South Africa is poised to exit the FATF greylist - a major financial credibility boost. Treasury veteran Ismail Momoniat explains how two years of legal, cultural, and enforcement reforms reversed the damage of state capture and rebuilt SA's anti-money laundering system. But he warns: the real test still lies ahead.

With many municipal pools across South Africa falling into disrepair, finding a proper 50-metre facility to train and compete in has become a major hurdle for swimmers. But a new wave of hope is rising in Pietermaritzburg with Aqua Park, a state-of-the-art, R170 million aquatic centre set to transform the future of both Olympic and Paralympic swimming in the country. Leading the charge is Theo Verster, former Olympian and now head coach of South Africa's Paralympic swimming team. The facility, featuring world-class Myrtha pool technology, promises not only elite training standards but also broad community access to nurture new talent and keep South Africa competitive on the global stage. Verster, who represented the country at the Beijing Olympics before transitioning to coaching, says para sport is one of the fastest growing sports in South Africa. He believes Aqua Park, scheduled to be completed in mid-December, will be a critical springboard to return the nation's swimmers to their former medal-winning heights.

Professor Tim Noakes challenges mainstream medicine and nutrition with a relentless pursuit of truth. In a candid interview, he critiques profit-driven healthcare, defends low-carb diets, and exposes systemic failures in academia and policy. From rewriting his own research to advocating reform, Noakes remains a bold voice calling for science rooted in evidence, merit, and integrity.

The real founder of the MKP, Jabulani Khumalo, has been reinstated as a Director of uMkhonto weSizwe Party NPO - along without others - after his “fraudently” removal. In his latest interview with BizNews, he describes how the urgent legal application had to be withdrawn after it emerged that they had already been reinstated by the Commissioner of Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC). (Here is a link to the certificate issued by the Commissioner https://eu.docworkspace.com/d/sICWm4pDjAerXwcIG?lg=en-US&sa=601.1074&ps=1&fn=CoR39_60007187790.pdf . He now vows to clean up the party. “Because we are back as directors in the NPC, we are the majority. Those that parachuted themselves…we're going to take a decision on them. Because now we've got the power…very soon, those thugs will be out of our party, and will be out of our company. We don't want thugs within the leadership of uMkhonto weSizwe….After cleaning out all these people that wants to parachute themselves and become directors and founders of the organisation, we'll take the party and give it back to the original people and the people must start working freely without fear.” Meanwhile, Khumalo has this message for former SG Floyd Shivambo following his ill-fated time at MKP: “…whatever he does, he must not make a mistake of taking the style of Zuma to be a boss over the people. He must be a leader…And he must never think of enriching himself out of this party. Whatever he will be doing, but he must make sure that he puts the people of South Africa first.”

In today's BizNews Briefing, Harvard's Meghan O'Sullivan discusses potential US involvement in Israel-Iran tensions. Roman Cabanac breaks silence on his DA exit, revealing no apparent reason for his departure. DA's Karabo Khakhau probes ANC-linked SETA appointees. Critics slam Ramaphosa's R700m National Dialogue as elitist. WhatsApp embraces ads, and the Proteas return as Test World Champions.

After 10 months of silence following Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen's instruction to make a “dignified exit”, Roman Cabanac has finally started to tell his side of the story. In a fascinating hour of unique insights, the DA Leader's former Chief of Staff shares first-hand experience of being on the sharp end of the unholy alliance between power mongers in politics and media. Cabanac spoke to BizNews editor Alec Hogg.

In today's BizNews Briefing, Ramaphosa backs a UN-led approach to Middle East peace; Trump says Iran missed its chance at a deal; retired US Air Force Lt. Gen. David Deptula unpacks possible military responses; 2.5 million hectares of land remain untransferred under SA land reform; Rob Hersov urges a DA–PA alliance; and Nassim Taleb warns of looming US debt dangers.

The South African government - under land redistribution - has acquired about 2.5 million hectares of land that has not yet been transferred. That is the figure given by Wandile Sihlobo, the Chief Economist of the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa, in this interview with BizNews. “That is in the government land holding account, as I speak with you. That land has not been transferred to Black South Africans with title deeds.” Sihlobo also releases the 2nd Quarter results of the Agribusiness Confidence Index that show there is still optimism in the South African agricultural sector.: https://www.agbiz.co.za/article/agbiz-idc-agribusiness-confidence-index-declines-mildly-in-q2-2025-498 He further debunks some of the myths and misconceptions around land reform and Expropriation Without Compensation (EWC). He comments on China planning to lower tariffs on a range of goods from African countries, and outlines ways to diversify export markets. Meanwhile, he is highly optimistic about the future of farming: “While some have portrayed the South African agricultural sector in the past few days and months as a sector that is under siege, it actually is not under siege…If anything, it is actually thriving… We are talking about a sector that has more than doubled in value and in volume terms since 1994.” Shilobo is the author of three books, “The Uncomfortable Truth About South Africa's Agriculture (2025)”, “A Country of Two Agricultures: The Disparities, The Challenges, The Solutions (2023)” and “Finding Common Ground: Land, Equity and Agriculture (2020)”.

South Africa's Social Research Foundation (SRF) reveals a striking disconnect between government policy and public opinion. Despite the ANC doubling down on BEE and affirmative action, SRF's latest survey shows the majority of South Africans - across all racial groups - believe these policies benefit the politically connected, not the poor. Gabriel Makin explains how the public favours merit, individualism, and minimal state interference in business. The data points to growing disillusionment with racial nationalism and demand for equal treatment under the law.

South Africa's famous Capitalist Activist Rob Hersov is determined to go out with a bang. In his fortnightly chat with BizNews editor Alec Hogg before announcing his retirement from the public spotlight, Hersov sheds light on the reasons for last month's roadshow on the US mega-podcast circuit; and throws bouquets and brickbats with some abandon.

In today's BizNews Briefing, Chief Rabbi Warren Goldstein defends Israel's pre-emptive strike on Iran amid alarming nuclear threats. Iranian-born economist Dr Iraj Abedian warns of a long, bitter conflict ahead. Donald Trump demands Tehran's evacuation as global leaders gather at the G7. Back home, the Patriotic Alliance poaches a young DA MP, and a new poll reveals 70% of South Africans distrust race-based laws.

In this rare role reversal hosted by Morning Shot, BizNews founder Alec Hogg opens up about the wild beginnings of Moneyweb and BizNews, the evolution of digital journalism, and his take on South Africa's future. Original content by Morning Shot, republished with permission.

Iranian-born and bred polymath Dr Iraj Abedian shares unique insights into the existential battle in the Middle East - and South Africa's place in it. The entrepreneur, academic and leading economist spoke to BizNews editor Alec Hogg.

In his latest Sunday Show with BizNews, Neil De Beer, the President of the United Independent Movement (UIM), describes how SA is becoming another Colombia with the assasination of underworld kingpin André Naude. As for the R700-m National Dialogue, he lambasts President Cyril Ramaphosa for appointing “a pre-tactical team for the build-up to the ANC elections so that they can look good, so that the National Dialogue can in actual fact be this little poodle paraded by the president, run by the vice president with all these cohorts and selected people”. He discussed the “thunderbolt” defection of Democratic Alliance (DA) MP Liam Jacobs to the Patriotic Alliance (PA); the fall of Floyd Shivambu at former President Jacob Zuma's MKP where he had incurred the wrath of Duduzile; the way African National Congress (ANC) SG Fikile Mbalula - who has Presidential ambitions of his own - has poured scorn on those Patrice Motsepi-for-President rumours; the embattled Shamila Batohi's defence for the NPA's spectacular failures; International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola's condemnation of Israel's attack on Iran - and how SA might have contributed to Iran's enriched uranium stock. Meanwhile, De Beer calls for an urgent Referendum to ask for the removal of the current government and a snap new election “because I think this country, if it had an opportunity to say that we would like to have an urgent emergency intervention of a new election, I'll tell you that 90% of this country would say yes.”

South Africa's youth unemployment crisis leaves many young people struggling to secure jobs due to limited experience. D-Lab is tackling this challenge by immersing unemployed youth in a virtual business simulator, equipping them with essential digital and workplace skills. In an interview with Biznews, D-Lab co-founders Alison Jacobson and Ayanda Orrai revealed their 85% job placement rate. One of their candidates, who had spent 11 years unsuccessfully searching for work while trying to run his own business, now holds a senior position in the tech industry. D-Lab specifically seeks out participants with ‘shining eyes' - those who display enthusiasm, potential, and a determination to reshape their futures.

Jabulani Khumalo, the real founder of MKP, headed by former President Jacob Zuma, is forging ahead with his legal battle to reclaim the party for its original leaders who had made huge sacrifices to get MKP off the ground and voted for by millions. In his latest interview with BizNews, Khumalo outlines the case that goes to court next week. “These crazy people have been continuously trying to continue with forgery, forging our documents to be removed (as directors) from the NPC (MK non-profit organisation)…we've been opening cases, but it never ended. Because of that, we decided that no, no, no, let's go to court and get a proper order from the court.” Khumalo says MKP needs to be led by people “who still think straight…not just because you have charisma and then you're saying you want to take over and run the people like you're running your own stokvel or running your tuck shop”. Meanwhile, Khumalo - who had warned that Floyd Shivambu was making a big mistake when he defected from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) to MKP - says he feels “real pity” for him following his redeployment “because he had all the powers in the EFF to take EFF forward, but he decided to come into a stokvel that a certain family has made it to be a stokvel of theirs”.

South Africa's proposed R100 billion Transformation Fund aims to boost black-owned businesses, but experts warn it's built on vague assumptions and misplaced trust in state efficiency. Ann Bernstein of the CDE advocates for evidence-based policymaking and greater private sector involvement to achieve real, sustainable economic transformation and inclusive growth.

In a year of by-election results since the national election, the Patriotic Alliance (PA) is showing strong growth. In this interview with BizNews, their performance is highlighted by Elections Analyst Wayne Sussman who says “they are setting themselves up without a shadow of a doubt as the one party which is stronger today compared to where they were in 2024” and could have the opportunity of having “many, many more mayors across the length and breath of this country after the next local government election”. Meanwhile, in urban by-elections, the Democratic Alliance (DA) has strong support. But it is a mixed bag in KwaZulu-Natal, where in some instances uMkhonto we Sizwe (MKP) does well, in some instances the African National Congress (ANC) is showing recovery, and in some instances the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) is being disappointing…Sussman also dissects the results of last night's two by-elections in both of which the ANC increased its vote share, while the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) saw its support fell from 30% to 11% in one ward, and essentially halved in the other. “And so this is the first time since the 2024 elections beyond KwaZulu-Natal where we see the EFF support starting to collapse.”

In today's BizNews Briefing, Elon Musk walks back anti-Trump posts as the fallout threatens SpaceX and Tesla. In South Africa, both Houses of Parliament pass the 2025 fiscal framework with DA support, while NPA head Shamila Batohi warns of internal sabotage - and earns a presidential summons. Plus, the Free Market Foundation and Solidariteit unveil the economic cost of BEE, and Nvidia ramps up AI partnerships in Europe.

A groundbreaking new report by the Free Market Foundation and Solidarity Research Institute delivers a devastating audit of Cyril Ramaphosa's pet policy. Quantifying the true cost of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment for the first time, researchers reveal how it hollowed out South Africa's economy, blocked investment, entrenched unemployment - and disempowered the very people it was meant to uplift.

In today's BizNews Briefing, the United States and China commit to advancing their Geneva consensus, while back home, the BEE discussion reignites with Sakeliga's resurfaced 2022 address. Farm safety takes centre stage as DA leader John Steenhuisen vows stronger protection for South Africa's farmers, and the Starlink saga continues as Elon Musk faces BEE hurdles. Plus, a new financial scandal dubbed “BHI 2.0” shocks Johannesburg, Tesla's Robotaxi launch sparks scepticism, and the Proteas kick off the World Test Championship final at Lord's.

In today's BizNews Briefing, Donald Trump dishes on US-China trade talks as global markets hang in the balance. Helen Zille teases a bold Joburg mayoral run, with IRR's John Endres unpacking the city's make-or-break stakes. The DA unveils a hard-hitting 10-point plan to combat farm attacks. UIM's Neil de Beer maps SA's future-boom or bust. Plus, Apple's AI and AR fumbles spark fierce criticism.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has drawn up a 10-point plan to deal with farm attacks. In this interview with BizNews, Ian Cameron, the DA spokesperson on Police, says the plan will be submitted to the Minister of Police “and there's a lot of engagement ahead of us regarding rural safety”. The plan includes the establishment of a specialised Rural Safety Unit within SAPS; the strengthening of rural crime intelligence; fixing the criminal justice system with prosecution-led investigations; treating farm murders as targeted, premeditated crimes; declaring farm attacks and stock theft as priority crimes; institutionalising partnerships with local stakeholders; equipping SAPS with forensic tools and skilled investigators; rebuilding trust between police and rural communities; supporting emerging farmers; and opposing Expropriation Without Compensation. “I think what's really positive is the fact that Parliament officially recognises that we've got a problem in rural safety and we shouldn't get distracted by definitions of just what kind or just who specifically always is influenced. The point is, farm attacks have been recognised. Farm murders are recognised. We have a crisis, we need to address it and it's got a significant influence on sustainability in the country.”

A sudden policy shift by South Africa's Civil Aviation Authority threatens to ground over 1,400 light aircraft, cripple aviation training and tourism, and unravel an entire industry ecosystem. Experts warn that a rigid, unconsulted engine overhaul rule could devastate local aviation, all under the guise of safety - despite a spotless safety record. This is a story of regulatory overreach, economic fallout, and the looming silence in South Africa's skies.

The possibility of Democratic Alliance (DA) Federal Council Chairperson Helen Zille as the next Mayor of Johannesburg has the country talking. In this interview with BizNews, Zille says although she has not yet made up her mind, she is “tending in the direction of doing so”. If she were to become Mayor, she says, her “only objective will be to restore service delivery and functionality” to Joburg. “And then Joburg will fly. It's got everything going for it. It's got every potential going for it. And that's what it must get right. We've got to get Joburg. We've got to get eThekwini. We've got to get Tshwane…the metros in Gauteng are the next major frontier and South Africa will stand or fall by what we do with the metros in Gauteng.” As for how African National Congress (ANC) Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi might feel about the prospect of her as mayor, Zille says: “…he will pull out all the stops to stop me, no doubt about that. So will Herman Mashaba (ActionSA Leader). He's played the race card already.” Meanwhile, Zille stresses that she and her family are committed to staying in South Africa. “And for South Africa to work, Joburg's got to work. It's very simple. We can't have just the Western Cape working. We've got to have the whole of South Africa working. And that's why we put up really good candidates to be mayoral candidates in all the cities, all the cities where we've got a chance.”

In today's BizNews Briefing, Bronwyn Nielsen covers Donald Trump's latest comments on his feud with Elon Musk, while experts weigh in on what the clash means for Tesla's future. Back home, Gayton McKenzie calls for scrapping BEE at the Black Business Council Summit - amid growing criticism for his no-shows in Parliament. Meanwhile, Higher Education Minister Nkabane faces tough questions over secret panel appointments that sparked outrage and reversal.

In his latest Sunday Show with BizNews, Neil de Beer, the President of the United Independent Movement (UIM), likens the “unraveling” of South Africa's economy to “economic genocide”. He says the country'S BEE and related laws do not constitute a “package of investment”, but a “hand grenade….that will explode economically”. For that he blames the “twats” in Government. “They are absolutely twats. They are clueless….they have no competency.” De Beer laments the long legal delays in holding to account powerful politicians like former president Jacob Zuma and former Free State premier Ace Magashule - and the strategies being used in such cases. Meanwhile, he examines Police Minister Senzo Mchunu's plan to fix the police. He also delves into Floyd Shivambu's redeployment as SG in former President Jacob Zuma's MKP amid mounting international pressure on Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) CIC Julius Malema. De Beer further comments on the legal challenge to the R941 billion NHI Act. And, he gives his take on the break-up (or prank break-up) between US President Donald Trump and SA-born billionaire Elon Musk.

In this special episode of the BizNews Rugby Show, Rory Steyn sits down with South Africa's ultimate ultra-distance icon, Bruce Fordyce, at the Comrades Marathon Expo in Durban. The pair reflect on the evolution of rugby, tales from the road, unforgettable Madiba moments, and the legacy of Comrades legends like Wally Hayward and Gerda Steyn. Fordyce also weighs in on this year's favourites and shares why the Comrades has become more than just a race, but a national celebration. Expect passion, nostalgia, sharp humour and deep insight from two old friends who've seen it all.

For decades, Adrian Gardiner has led the charge in rewilding farm land in the Eastern Cape, but he's still chasing bigger ambitions. His vision is to transform the province into a wildlife jewel, stretching from Plettenberg Bay to the Karoo. In this interview with BizNews about the newly released book The Man Who Changed a Landscape: The Adrian Gardiner Story by Dean Allen, Gardiner recounts his journey and the challenges he faced in realising his vision. It began with a 2,500-acre farm near Port Elizabeth, where he overcame deep scepticism to establish Shamwari, a malaria-free Big Five reserve. Shamwari became a blueprint for 16 similar reserves across the Eastern Cape. Inspired by figures like David Attenborough, the 82-year-old Gardiner's optimism remains unwavering. Gardiner's ambition that he shares with other private and public reserve owners includes the creation of an Eastern Cape National Park even larger than the Kruger National Park. He is also determined to help see the end of captive lion breeding, highlighting the staggering reality that 8,000 lions remain in captivity for their bones and canned hunting. Wildlife, Gardiner says is South Africa's biggest asset, but the most rewarding part of his journey has been the lives he has managed to change. – Linda van Tilburg

The British government has significantly tightened visa and settlement rules in a white paper published in May. The reforms have shortened the list of occupations eligible for sponsorship, ended exemptions for social workers, raised salary thresholds, and imposed stricter regulations on businesses seeking to expand into the United Kingdom. However, according to Saskia Johnston from immigration specialists Sable International, opportunities remain for entrepreneurs and business owners looking to establish operations in the UK. One such route is the UK Expansion Worker visa, designed specifically for foreign companies aiming to set up a brand or subsidiary in the UK. In an interview with BizNews, Johnston noted that the pivot favours established businesses and makes it considerably more difficult for smaller entities. With the goal posts constantly shifting, and the list of eligible occupation shrinking, she said there are still viable pathways for skilled workers to the UK and South Africa's fire engineers are in high demand.

The “embarrassment of being removed” is “foremost” in the thinking of President Cyril Ramaphosa. So says political analyst Piet Croucamp who deems the break between the president and African National Congress (ANC) Chair Gwede Mantashe as irreparable. “Mantashe was the person who knocked on Thabo Mbeki's door to tell him that time is up - and he was the one who knocked on Jacob Zuma's door to tell him time is up. If there's one thing that Ramaphosa and those around him fear most, it is that one day the National Executive Committee of the ANC makes a decision which could be perceived as a Motion of No Confidence and Gwede Mantashe comes and knocks on your door. And I think that's the big fear that Ramaphosa has.” Croucamp also gives his take on the real reason MKP SG Floyd Shivambu was redeployed; reveals his pick for the next leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA); comments on the performance of the Government of National Unity ((GNU); as well as the Afrikaner Trek to America. He also gazes into the future of South Africa in 10 years' time. “…there will not be a single party that will govern South Africa alone in the next two or three elections…”

Morningstar's latest performance data puts Sean Peche's Ranmore Fund in the top one percentile for virtually every performance period in the last five years. In this interview with BizNews editor Alec Hogg, the ace money manager shares insights from a lunchtime meeting last week with the investing guru who inspires him. The result is a treat for beginners and professionals alike.

In today's BizNews Briefing, Bronwyn Nielsen reports on Donald Trump's sweeping new travel ban and MK Party turbulence as Floyd Shivambu is redeployed to parliament amid party infighting. Julius Malema weighs in with scathing commentary. Meanwhile, Danny Jordaan is grilled in Parliament over football leadership failures, and Bloomberg explores looming US-China trade tensions and Meta's metaverse ambitions.

Corruption. Black Economic Empowerment. And that R100-billion Transformation Fund…These are topics being debated hotly on a daily basis in South Africa. In his latest interview with BizNews, Toby Chance, the Democratic Alliance (DA) spokesperson on Trade, Industry and Competition, speaks about corruption at the Lotteries Commission were whistleblowers were “really severely damaged…and in many instances their lives have been ruined and their finances have been completely devastated” in the wake of allegations that up to R2-billion of corrupt grants were issued between around about 2011 and 2022. Chance gives an update on the controversy surrounding the appointment of a new licence operator and says: “It would be very surprising to me if there wasn't further litigation coming up around the corner…So they (Ithuba Holdings) really had four bites of the cherry, which I think many of the contesting bidders will find to be unconstitutional and unlawful.” Meanwhile, he also addresses the charge that the DA is “anti-transformation”, and shares the highlights of the party's submission on the R100-billion Transformation Fund. He also outlines the DA's alternative plan to BEE.

Alec Hogg unpacks the ANC's push for strict race quotas in the workplace, with insights from Solidarity's Connie Mulder and DA's Toby Chance. The Fort Hare scandal escalates as whistleblowers are jailed for exposing corruption. Plus: South Africa claims gold at the Chelsea Flower Show, New Zealand attracts record immigration, nuclear power gets an AI boost, and investor David Booth shares timeless financial wisdom.

In this in-depth interview, Alec Hogg speaks with Connie Mulder, head of the Solidarity Research Institute, about the ANC's latest employment equity regulations. Mulder explains how the government's racial targets for workplace demographics are not only impractical but potentially damaging to South Africa's economy. He reveals the hidden costs of compliance, including forced staff replacements and looming fines, and questions the long-term viability of such policies. With data-driven insights and legal context, Mulder warns of the unintended consequences and urges a national conversation on meaningful economic redress and sustainable growth. A critical discussion on policy, ideology, and South Africa's future.

Bad governance involving collusion between councils and management is enabling corruption and capture at some of South Africa's historic universities. That is the charge from National Tertiary Education Union Secretary General Grant Abbott who says: “We've coined the term, you use the Corruption Mafia and that's a very good term. We've also coined the term University Capture in the line of State Capture that we see a lot of that unfortunately happening.” Abbott describes the “systemetic targeting” of whistleblowers and union leaders, including his union president who was kidnapped and tortured before being dismissed. “…it had happened one Sunday night, 12 men arrived at his house. We later learned that three of them were police officers. They did not produce an arrest warrant or anything like that, but you can imagine 12 men arriving at your house and he's at home on a Sunday evening with his wife and children. And they have AK-47s and big rifles and dressed in police uniform, and tell him he must come with them. They proceeded to then take him to an undisclosed location and tortured him for seven hours, allegedly trying to get him to confess to involvement somehow in the attempted assassination on the Vice Chancellor back then.” The CCMA has now overturned the dismissal and ordered his reinstatement. Abbott also comments on the case of the corruption-busting lawyers who now find themselves in the dock alongside some of the people they had investigated. He outlines the union's proposals to stop the corruption at and capture of higher education institutions.

In this episode of the BizNews Briefing, Alec Hogg unpacks the ANC's repeat failures on BEE and mining policy as debt and youth unemployment climb - with insights from DA MP James Lorimer. (Ret.) Colonel Chris Wyatt shares US fallout from Ramaphosa's Oval Office debacle, and Paul O'Sullivan responds to explosive allegations in the Mantengu share price scandal. On the global stage, Elon Musk's XAI rockets to a $113bn valuation - nearly a third of South Africa's GDP.

In his latest interview with BizNews, US intelligence analyst, retired Colonel Chris Wyatt charges that the farm murder last week of a close friend's stepfather has been categorised as a house robbery instread of a farm attack. “This is why crime statistics in South Africa are not trustworthy…They cover this up.” Giving an update on the two groups of refugees in America, he said the outing of many people from the first group - that in fact included a Coloured family - had resulted in death threats against their family members, and their property being jeopardised back in South Africa. Colonel Wyatt expresses outrage at Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean McPherson of the Democratic Alliance (DA) “who cackled like a hyena when Ramaphosa told the joke about the lights being dimmed and mocking President Trump”. He has this warning: “I think that the ruling Government of National Unity (GNU) thinks there's no consequences for their actions. And I think they're going to be sadly disappointed very soon.” Colonel Wyatt also gives his take on the relationship between Trump and South African-born billionaire Elon Musk following his departure from the White House.