Finance News Update | 23 March 2026
- Phophi K

- Mar 23
- 2 min read

General Headlines
Interest rate hold expected
Rising oil prices, driven by the ongoing Middle East conflict, have likely diminished the chances of an interest rate cut at the South African Reserve Bank’s upcoming meeting. While a hold appears increasingly likely in the short term, the monetary policy trajectory for the remainder of the year remains uncertain. BusinessDay
Government explores emergency access to pension funds
The National Treasury is considering allowing limited access to retirement funds that are currently preserved until retirement, under tightly controlled conditions. Although no specific trigger has been confirmed, increasing financial strain among older South Africans is likely influencing the proposal. Broader concerns around retirement readiness persist, with many people uncertain about their ability to retire comfortably. BusinessTech
Markets & Investments
Sasol’s valuation surges amid rising oil prices
Petrochemical giant Sasol has seen its market value increase significantly, gaining approximately R2.5 billion per day since the onset of the Middle East conflict. Higher oil prices and a weaker rand have supported strong share price performance. Since 27 February, the company has added around R56.3 billion to its JSE market capitalisation, now exceeding R136 billion. Its share price has more than doubled since the start of the year, with most gains concentrated in recent weeks. BusinessDay
Gold declines to near four-month low on inflation concerns
Gold prices dropped by more than 2% on Monday, reaching close to a four-month low as escalating geopolitical tensions fuel inflation concerns and expectations of higher global interest rates. Despite its traditional safe haven status, gold’s liquidity is contributing to its decline during this risk-off period, as investors sell holdings to meet margin calls arising from losses in other asset classes. BusinessDay
Property & Real Assets
Tax changes to impact foreign property owners in South Africa
The 2026 national budget has introduced several tax amendments affecting foreign nationals with property investments in South Africa. These changes include rental income thresholds, capital gains tax (CGT), and VAT regulations, potentially altering both tax obligations and compliance requirements. A key update includes a R30,000 rental income threshold for filing, meaning foreign owners may still need to submit returns to SARS even if no tax is due. Additionally, the annual CGT exclusion has increased from R40,000 to R50,000, offering some relief to investors when disposing of property assets. BusinessTech



