Finance News Update | 12 June 2026
- Phophi K

- Jun 12
- 2 min read

General Headlines
US tariffs fail to dent South African exports
Tariffs imposed on South African exports to the United States have not produced the anticipated decline in trade volumes. According to Codera Analytics, the value of South African exports to the US has increased by 11% in nominal terms since the tariffs were introduced in August 2025. The growth suggests that demand for South African goods has remained resilient despite higher trade barriers. The data highlights the continued competitiveness of South African exports in one of the world's largest consumer markets. Daily Investor
New R4.2 billion Senqu Bridge officially opens
South Africa and Lesotho have marked a major milestone in Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) with the opening of the Senqu Bridge. The R4.2 billion infrastructure project was constructed through collaboration between teams from both countries and will support the ongoing implementation of the LHWP. The partnership, established through a treaty signed in 1986, aims to strengthen regional integration while advancing water security, energy generation, and socio-economic development. The bridge is expected to improve connectivity and support the long-term objectives of the project. Top Auto
South Africa records strongest current-account surplus in four years
South Africa achieved its largest current-account surplus in four years during the first quarter of 2026, driven by stronger gold export earnings and lower import expenditure. The South African Reserve Bank reported that the surplus widened to 2.4% of GDP, or R190.7 billion, up from 0.6% in the previous quarter. This represents the second consecutive quarterly surplus and the strongest performance since the third quarter of 2021. The improvement reflects favourable trade conditions and strengthens the country's external financial position. BusinessTech
Markets & Investments
Market and Stock Highlight
The rand strengthened against the US dollar on Thursday despite heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Renewed military activity involving Iran and the United States, coupled with rising oil prices, continued to weigh on global investor sentiment. Nevertheless, the rand gained 0.3% to trade at 16.52 against the dollar, supported by broader currency market movements. On 12 June 2026, the rand was trading at R16.28 to the dollar, R21.84 to the pound, and R18.84 to the euro, while gold traded at $4,190.74 per ounce and oil at $88.74 per barrel. BusinessTech
Property & Real Assets
Gauteng shopping centres lead retail property growth
Gauteng shopping centres and super regional malls emerged as the strongest performers in the retail property sector during the first quarter of 2026, according to the Clur Shopping Centre Index. The results indicate a shift in growth trends across retail formats and major provinces, with Gauteng showing notable resilience. The sector continued to benefit from healthy trading density and steady base rental growth, supporting overall performance. Despite broader economic challenges, the retail property market demonstrated sustained strength during the quarter. Property Wheel



