Finance News Update | 14 Sep 2026


General Headlines
South Africa’s government has one option left
South Africa’s government has limited capacity to fund the infrastructure investment needed to support economic growth and prevent further deterioration of public infrastructure. This is largely attributed to years of weak fiscal management, with the country last recording a full budget surplus in 2008/09. Stanlib chief economist Kevin Lings argues that government’s most viable option is therefore to create a more attractive and supportive environment for private-sector investment. Increased private participation could help close the infrastructure funding gap while supporting long-term economic growth. Daily Investor
Warning to anyone thinking of stockpiling fuel at home in South Africa
South Africans expecting significantly higher fuel prices in October have been warned against storing large quantities of petrol or diesel at home. PSG Insure cautioned that incorrectly stored fuel can create serious fire and safety risks and could potentially complicate insurance claims. The warning comes as both petrol and diesel prices are expected to increase sharply next month, increasing concerns among households about rising transport costs. BusinessTech
South African nurses have had enough
Gauteng’s public healthcare system is losing at least 100 nurses every month, placing additional strain on the province’s healthcare services. As the province has the country’s highest healthcare expenditure and largest number of hospital beds, the ongoing loss of nursing staff could have serious implications for service delivery. The shortage also presents challenges for the implementation of the National Health Insurance (NHI) programme. BusinessDay
Markets & Investments
Market and Stock Highlight
The rand ended last week slightly stronger, trading at 16.16 against the US dollar, while the JSE Top-40 Index gained 0.3%. On Monday, 14 September 2026, the rand was trading at R15.99 to the dollar, R21.67 to the pound, and R18.59 to the euro. Gold was trading at $4,385.52 per ounce, while oil prices stood at $99.07 per barrel. BusinessTech
Property & Real Assets
Retail Property Growth Dips below Volatile CPI
Growth in South Africa’s retail property sector slowed during the second quarter of 2026, with both trading density and rental growth coming under pressure. According to the Clur Shopping Centre Index, volatile inflation and constrained household finances are influencing consumer behaviour, with shoppers increasingly prioritising value and cutting back on discretionary spending. The softer retail environment is putting pressure on shopping centre performance and rental growth. Property Wheel



