Finance News Update | 18 Mar 2026

General Headlines Standard Bank fraud warning for South Africans Standard Bank is warning South Africans to be especially careful this Easter as digital banking scams are becoming more advanced with the use of AI. Criminals are now combining different tactics such as spoofing, phishing, and vishing, making their schemes harder to spot. They can impersonate bank staff or trusted individuals with convincing voices, emails, and even deepfake content. These scams often look identical to real bank communication, tricking people into sharing login details through fake websites, links, or QR codes. Once fraudsters obtain usernames, passwords, or one-time pins, they can quickly take over accounts or push fake investment opportunities. The bank stresses that these scams are highly sophisticated and can cause serious financial and emotional harm, even to cautious consumers. (BusinessTech)

Markets and Investments Gold gains as traders mull fallout from Middle East conflict Gold prices rose slightly on Tuesday as concerns about long-term oil shipment disruptions eased, and investors focused on the economic effects of the Middle East conflict ahead of key central bank decisions. Spot gold gained 0.4% to $5,023.19 per ounce, while US futures for April delivery climbed 0.5% to $5,027.20. Analysts noted that markets reacted positively after Iran’s foreign minister confirmed the Strait of Hormuz was not fully closed, though oil prices stayed above $100 a barrel due to ongoing blockages linked to the US-Israeli war against Iran.Higher oil costs continue to drive inflation, which usually supports gold as a hedge, but rising interest rates can reduce demand for the metal. The upcoming US Federal Reserve meeting is seen as a major factor, with expectations that rates will remain unchanged for a second time. Meanwhile, other precious metals also advanced: silver rose 0.6% to $81.28, platinum jumped 2.2% to $2,161.35, and palladium increased 1.4% to $1,620.45.(BusinessDay) Shoprite secures major stake in Mpumalanga-based R&A Cellular Shoprite Group, listed on the JSE, is expanding its financial services by buying a majority stake in Mpumalanga-based R&A Cellular. The deal, still awaiting regulatory approval, is designed to connect formal retail with South Africa’s informal economy. R&A Cellular runs a popular point-of-sale system that helps spaza shops and informal traders sell prepaid airtime, electricity, gaming vouchers, and accept card payments. By combining this platform with Shoprite’s existing Money Market services, the company aims to bring essential digital and financial services directly into local communities, turning everyday traders into convenient service hubs. (Moneyweb)

South African rand weakens as Middle East conflict weighs on sentiment

The South African rand weakened slightly on Tuesday morning as investors stayed cautious following a drone attack on the US embassy in Iraq amid ongoing Middle East tensions. By 07:18 GMT, the rand was trading at 16.77 to the dollar, down 0.6% from its previous close. Analysts noted that the currency is unlikely to strengthen much given the continued conflict, including recent action in Lebanon. The dollar held steady against other currencies as markets awaited the US Federal Reserve’s policy meeting, where rates are expected to remain unchanged for a second time. Like other risk-sensitive currencies, the rand is influenced by global events as well as local data. South Africa’s 2035 government bond also weakened, with yields rising to 9.025%.(EngineeringNews)

Property and Real Estates

Joburg’s new live-work-play precinct: Sandton Gate Central launches end-March

Sandton Gate Central, developed by Tiber and Abcon, is set to open in March 2026 as a new premium retail and office hub in Johannesburg. The project will add 12,000m² of curated retail space to the Sandton Gate Precinct, which already hosts around 2,000 workers and corporates. Designed as a convenient stop for professionals and residents, it offers a compact, walkable environment rather than the scale of a regional mall.Phase 1 cost R500 million, while Phase 2, valued at R1 billion, will expand the offering with restaurants and more retail. Major anchors include Checkers, Dis-Chem, and Woolworths, alongside bespoke dining options such as Tortellino D’Oro, The Baron, Ukko, and Tightline. Other retailers range from Absolute Pets and Bryanston Jewellers to Kauai, Milky Lane, and Gary Rom Heat’s flagship store.The precinct also features 136 residential apartments, 26 established tenants, and 10,000m² of new office space. With its mix of retail, dining, living, and working spaces, Sandton Gate is positioned as one of Joburg’s most complete mixed-use developments, offering a larger integrated live-work-play environment than Melrose Arch.(Propertywheel)