What’s New

Escalating trade tensions, fluctuating commodity prices, and pivotal policy shifts. March 2025 has come and gone, and it is imperative to reflect on the significant economic events that have shaped both the global landscape and South Africa’s economic environment. The month was marked by escalating trade tensions, fluctuating commodity prices, and pivotal policy shifts, all of which bear profound implications for consumers and markets alike.

South Africa remains one of the most unequal countries in the world, with its Gini coefficient (a measure of income inequality) worsening since 1994. Despite efforts to redistribute wealth and improve economic inclusion, inequality has deepened, owing to persistent unemployment, policy failures, and slow economic growth. However, targeted reforms in labour markets, governance, education, and entrepreneurship could help reverse this trend.

Economic development is often examined through the lenses of policy, technology, and finance, but the influence of cultural norms and values cannot be overlooked. Cultural attitudes shape how markets operate, businesses function, and individuals engage in economic activity.