14/07/2026
This month’s On Balance examines the latest shifts in South Africa’s economic landscape, including the impact of renewed geopolitical tensions on oil prices and interest rates, record-high local vehicle sales, a concerning decline in vehicle exports, and a surge in mineral and wholesale trade. Encouragingly, the report also highlights steady improvements in household finances and overall economic resilience, despite ongoing challenges facing key industries.
April started on the worst possible note for South Africa, with US President Donald Trump announcing a general tariff of 30% on imports to the US