Finance News Update | 3 Dec 2025
- Phophi K

- Dec 3, 2025
- 2 min read
Updated: Dec 16, 2025

General Headlines
Big banks closing branches
Four of South Africa’s five largest banks have significantly reduced their branch networks over the past decade, while one has gone against the trend. Absa, FNB, Nedbank and Standard Bank have collectively closed 614 branches, with Nedbank accounting for the highest number at 194. Capitec stands out as the only major bank to expand its branch network during this period. The shrinking physical footprint coincides with rapid growth in digital banking usage and the increased availability of cash-access points through third-party retailers. (MyBroadband)
Proposal to change grade 12 pass mark fails
Parliament rejected a motion on Tuesday to eliminate the long-standing 30% matric pass rate, a proposal that gained rare cross-party interest and highlighted deep disagreements over the country’s education trajectory. The motion advocated for raising the minimum pass mark to 50%, arguing that the current threshold hampers learners in an increasingly competitive job market. Ultimately, the proposal was voted down by 190 to 87, with both the ANC and DA supporting the existing system. Smaller parties—including the EFF, IFP and MK—backed Build One SA’s call for change. (Business Day)
Investments
Oil falls as traders watch Russia-Ukraine talks
Oil prices declined for a second straight session on Wednesday as investors monitored Russia-Ukraine peace discussions that could potentially increase supply. Market sentiment was further weighed down by concerns about a possible glut due to rising inventory levels. A five-hour meeting between the Russian and US presidents ended without agreement on a proposed peace deal for Ukraine. (Business Day)
Cell C’s JSE debut proves ‘purpose and profitability can coexist and win’
Cell C Holdings Ltd made its official debut on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) on 27 November under the ticker symbol CCD, marking a major milestone for the company and the telecoms sector. The listing bolsters corporate governance structures and positions the business for long-term growth, all while reinforcing its commitment to affordable connectivity for South Africans. (Business Day)
Property
Battle over Cape Town property taxes
The South African Property Owners Association (Sapoa) has taken legal action against the City of Cape Town over its building tariffs for the period ending June 2026. Sapoa has raised “substantial legal concerns” about elements of the budget, including a city-wide cleaning levy and new water and sanitation charges linked to property values. The organisation is seeking to have these tariffs overturned. According to Statistics South Africa, Cape Town property prices have surged 160% since 2010—well ahead of increases in other major metros. Johannesburg, the country’s wealthiest city, has experienced less than half that growth over the same timeframe. While the city postponed implementing the tariffs for business and commercial properties until 1 July 2026, the charges already apply to vacant and residential properties. (Daily Investor)


