Scams have reached unprecedented levels in South Africa, posing a growing concern for people of all ages. The Southern African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS) reported a staggering 32% increase in fraud incidents in 2024 alone. While many assume that scams primarily target older individuals, recent trends show that younger generations are increasingly falling victim to fraudulent schemes. A Shifting Victim Profile The stereotype of scam victims as elderly individuals unfamiliar with technology is outdated. Today, scammers tailor their schemes to exploit the habits and vulnerabilities of different age groups. Surprisingly, younger generations, particularly Gen Z, are frequently targeted due to…
Author: Yanga Manci
BT and Equinix have announced an expansion of their strategic partnership, aimed at revolutionizing interconnectivity for multinational businesses. This initiative is designed to drive innovation and accelerate business outcomes by transforming the digital value chain. BT’s AI-ready Global Fabric network-as-a-service (NaaS) platform is now integrated into more than 30 Equinix data centres worldwide, with plans to expand to over 40 locations within the next year. This expansion will cover the top 30 global business hubs, encompassing 95% of the world’s cloud interconnection traffic. The extended reach will significantly enhance Global Fabric’s international footprint, positioning it as one of the most…
Venture builder Aions Creative Technology announced the addition of two innovative startups, Milli and Franc, to its investment portfolio, bringing the total number of investees to 11. This expansion underscores its commitment to fostering entrepreneurship that drives job creation and economic growth in South Africa. Driving financial inclusion with Franc Franc is a digital wealth platform designed to simplify investing and make wealth-building accessible to all and is the 6th investment from Aions via the Telkom FutureMakers Fund. Franc offers user-friendly platforms that guide individuals in setting up goal-based investment pots, Franc empowers users to achieve financial freedom. The latest report…
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), a global leader in IT services, consulting, and business solutions, has announced the winners of the third annual South African edition of TCS Sustainathon™. This problem-solving competition encourages students to harness technology in tackling real-world sustainability challenges. Innovative Solutions for a Sustainable Future Team Nexura, comprising students from the University of Cape Town, WITS, and Nelson Mandela University, claimed the top prize with their ground-breaking project, Vitals-Vault. Designed to address the pressing need for vaccine storage in rural Africa, Vitals-Vault is a portable, energy-efficient cooling solution aimed at minimizing both medical and energy wastage. For their…
Investing in smart home technology can simplify daily chores and enhance convenience, but without careful consideration, you may end up with a device that doesn’t meet your expectations. A robotic vacuum cleaner is a fantastic addition to any home, yet, as Bianca Leonard, Marketing Manager at lifestyle technology company Solenco, points out, not all robotic vacuums are created equal. “With a wide range of robotic vacuum cleaners available, priced anywhere between R2,500 and R20,000, it’s crucial for customers to understand their specific needs before making a purchase,” says Leonard. Key Factors to Consider Before Buying a Robotic Vacuum Selecting the…
Apple has introduced the iPhone 16e, a revamped low-end smartphone priced at $599. This latest addition to Apple’s line-up is set to hit stores on February 28, with pre-orders beginning on February 21. The pricing, when converted directly, equates to just over R11,000 in South Africa, before factoring in import duties and VAT. Replacing the iPhone SE, which was last updated nearly three years ago, the iPhone 16e brings a significant design overhaul. Apple has eliminated the outdated home button, opting instead for a larger display with Face ID functionality. The device also boasts a 48-megapixel rear camera, the A18…
Chinese automaker BYD is set to increase its presence in the South African market with the debut of three exciting new models this year: the Shark 6 plug-in hybrid bakkie, the Sealion 6 plug-in hybrid SUV, and the all-electric Sealion 7 coupé-SUV. These launches, which were initially reported by The Citizen, indicate BYD’s strategy to compete more aggressively with established automotive brands and solidify its position as a key player in South Africa’s new-energy vehicle segment. While official launch dates, pricing, and full specifications for the South African market are yet to be confirmed, there’s already a wealth of information…
In the final quarter of 2024, Berkshire Hathaway, the investment powerhouse led by legendary investor Warren Buffett, made notable changes to its portfolio by reducing its stakes in both Bank of America and Capital One. These adjustments were disclosed in Berkshire’s 13F filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), a mandatory report for firms managing assets over $100 million (R1.84 billion). Warren Buffett’s profound influence on the world of finance is undeniable. Revered for his unmatched investing prowess and down-to-earth nature, Buffett’s impact on the investment community has been lasting and far-reaching. His interest in business and investing…
Blue Label’s financial performance for the first half of the 2025 financial year showed a decline in both revenue and earnings, primarily driven by the struggles of its Comm Equipment Company (CEC) segment. The company, which owns a non-controlling stake in Cell C via its subsidiary, The Prepaid Company (TPC), released its interim results for the six months ending 30 November 2024. During this period, Blue Label’s total revenue fell by 4%, totalling R7.2 billion. However, when considering the gross revenue from “PINless top-ups,” prepaid electricity, ticketing, and universal vouchers, Blue Label’s total revenue effectively increased by 8%, reaching R47.4…
East Africa has emerged as a leader in startup funding in recent years, showcasing a remarkable shift in the region’s investment landscape. In 2020, the region secured 31% of the continent’s total investment, which, although a leading share, was marginally ahead of West Africa by just $6 million from a $1.1 billion total. However, it wasn’t until mid-2022, with a noticeable slowdown in funding across the continent, that East Africa’s dominance truly took shape. Since then, the region has accounted for 30% of the total funding (excluding exits), surpassing other regions in the process. Looking back at the period from…
