AR/VR headset shipments slow

Global shipments of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) headsets slowed significantly in the first quarter of 2023 (1Q23) as macroeconomic conditions worsened and the market cooled compared to the pandemic driven highs seen last year. According to new data...

Is this a powerless power minister?

The powers of the new Minister of Energy, as promulgated by President Cyril Ramaphosa, appear to be limited and his areas of responsibility overlap with those of other ministers, writes Jason van der Poel, partner at Webber Wentzel. On 26 May 2023, President Cyril...

Talent emigration now a top risk for SA businesses

By Kathy Gibson – A vast majority of South African business leaders (80%) regard emigration of top talent as a critical risk factor for their businesses. And there’s reason for their concern: 55% of qualified young professionals are considering going...

Some relief for African consumers expected in 2024

This year will be another tough one for African consumers, but conditions are expected to improve in 2024, according to a forecast by Oxford Economics. This is consistent with the company’s view that inflation will ease further in the coming months and that...

PMI ticks down again in May 2023

The seasonally adjusted Absa Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) edged down to 49.2 in May 2023 from 49.8 in April. The headline index has now signalled a deterioration in business conditions for four consecutive months. In addition to the downbeat assessment of...