Finance News Update | 04 Mar 2026

General Headlines FMD outbreak reaches all provinces, with almost 1,000 cases reported South Africa’s foot-and-mouth disease has spread to all nine provinces, with 935 cases reported to the World Organisation for Animal Health. The government has launched a nationwide vaccination program. Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen said vaccinations are now happening everywhere after new vaccine shipments arrived. One million doses from Argentina are already in use, with 90,000 cattle vaccinated in the Free State. Another 1.5 million doses from Turkey have also arrived, giving the country 2.5 million doses in total. The minister stressed that fast, large-scale vaccination is essential. (BusinessDay)

Markets and Investments Oil and gas prices surge as Iran war disrupts Middle Eastern output Oil and gas prices jumped after Israeli and U.S. strikes on Iran and Iran’s retaliation, which shut down energy facilities and disrupted shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude rose up to 13% before settling at $77.74 a barrel, while U.S. crude closed at $71.23. The conflict has already hit Saudi Arabia’s biggest refinery and Qatar’s gas production, leaving 150 ships stranded. Analysts warn that a prolonged fight could keep prices high, fuel inflation, and slow global growth. (EngineeringNews)

R635m investment allows SolarAfrica Energy to own 100% of Commercial Energy South Africa Vantage Capital and Greenpoint Capital invested R635 million in Commercial Energy South Africa, a subsidiary of SolarAfrica Energy that owns and manages rooftop solar and battery storage projects. The deal allowed Inspired Evolution to exit, making SolarAfrica the sole owner of the portfolio, which includes 90 MW of capacity across 134 sites. SolarAfrica says full control will help expand renewable solutions like electricity wheeling, giving businesses cheaper, greener, and more reliable power. Since 2011, SolarAfrica has delivered 343 MW of solar projects in Southern Africa and is rolling out another 1.14 GW. The investors highlighted the portfolio’s stable cash flows, its role in South Africa’s energy transition, and their confidence in SolarAfrica’s ability to scale further. (EngineeringNews) Bad turn for interest rate cuts in South Africa The growing conflict in the Middle East is raising oil prices and creating risks for South Africa’s inflation outlook, which could delay or even reverse expected interest rate cuts. Traders now see a small chance of a rate hike at the March 26 policy meeting, with forward-rate agreements suggesting a possible 6-basis-point increase (about a 24% chance of a 25-basis-point hike). Just last week, markets were expecting a 30% chance of a rate cut. Expectations for easing later in the year have also dropped sharply. Brent crude climbed above $80 a barrel as U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran escalated, while the rand weakened further, adding to inflation pressures. Economists note that if the oil shock is short-lived, the central bank may hold rates steady, but if inflation stays high, rate hikes could follow. The rand fell 1.2% on Tuesday to 16.29 per dollar, extending its two-day drop to 2.2%. Analysts warn that the uncertain trajectory of the conflict introduces major risks for global markets and South Africa’s economy. (BusinessTech)

Property and Real Estates

Multi-million-rand Prince Buthelezi Mall in Empangeni nears completion The Prince Buthelezi Mall in Empangeni is almost finished and set to open at the end of April 2026. Developed by the Moolman Group with Twin City and Melta Capital, the mall will cover 37,000m² and feature about 90 stores, including supermarkets, fashion outlets, restaurants, and drive-throughs-many of which are new to the area. Developers are also spending over R90 million to upgrade nearby roads and a bridge, and they are working with local taxi associations to improve access, with an on-site taxi rank and free parking. Shoppers can expect modern facilities such as communal seating, greenery, entertainment areas with a big screen, free Wi-Fi, kids’ play zones, and plenty of bathrooms-all designed for comfort, visibility, and easy movement. (Propertywheel)