Stats SA recently published an update on the influence of Black Friday on November retail trade sales.1 The event has become synonymous with e-commerce. According to data quoted by BusinessDay, there was a sharp rise in online Black Friday purchases in 2025.2,3 While Stats SA does not publish data specifically on the influence of e-commerce   read more »

Black Friday deals were aplenty in November. Recent retail trade sales data show how consumers allocated their spending between November and December, and how this split has shifted over time. The impact of Black Friday was previously covered using data for 2019, 20211 and 2024.2 Retail trade sales figures published last month provide an update   read more »

The South African economy recorded its fifth consecutive quarter of growth, expanding by 0,4% in the fourth quarter (October–December) of 2025.1 Finance, trade and personal services drove much of the upward momentum on the production (supply) side of the economy. A rise in household spending, gross fixed capital formation and government consumption lifted the expenditure   read more »

The latest round of monthly business cycle indicators concludes the results for 2025, providing a preliminary snapshot of economic performance in the fourth quarter of 2025 and for the calendar year. The year was generally positive, according to selected indicators shown in Figure 1 below. Many indicators were stronger, with decreases recorded for manufacturing, electricity generation,   read more »

Debt can quickly become a curse if businesses take on more than they can handle. The most recent financial data from Stats SA covers debt in the formal business sector, highlighting industries that might be more at risk, with a particular focus on small enterprises. Businesses borrowed less in 2024 Total debt (i.e. liabilities) in   read more »

Several tertiary education institutions are starting a new academic year this month. Stats SA provides the latest update on how higher education fees have shifted over time. Just over 10 years ago, students across the country launched widespread protests against rising tuition fees. This had an impact on the finances of higher education institutions, covered   read more »

While most learners in South Africa are able to access education, particularly at basic education level, a new report by Statistics South Africa highlights those who remain excluded from the education they aspire to, largely due to cost pressures. Despite education being a national priority, rising education-related expenses continue to place learning opportunities beyond the   read more »

Consumer price inflation dipped to 3,5% in January from 3,6% in December, returning to its November 2025 level. Stable food inflation and lower fuel prices contributed to the lower headline rate. The monthly change in the consumer price index (CPI) was 0,2%, the same as December’s reading. Food inflation remained at 4,4% for a third consecutive   read more »

The braai brought many friends and family together this past December. South Africa’s favourite pastime is a staple of any holiday season, but it has become pricier over time. Exactly how much pricier comes down to a matter of taste. What makes a braai so wonderful is that it can take many different forms and   read more »

Consumer price inflation ticked higher in December to end the year at 3,6% from 3,5% in November. The change in the consumer price index (CPI) between November and December was 0,2%. The December print concludes the results for the calendar year. The average inflation rate for 2025 was 3,2%. This is the lowest rate in   read more »