South Africans are opting to go off-grid: how they’re being helped, and hindered, in their efforts

South Africans are opting to go off-grid: how they’re being helped, and hindered, in their efforts

By Germarié Viljoen, North-West University and Felix Dube, University of Pretoria Eskom, South Africa’s state-owned power utility, struggles to generate and supply a stable flow of electricity to meet demand. In 2023, there were times when households and businesses had no power for up to 11 hours a day. Eskom has warned that load shedding will be worse in 2024. The result is that many South Africans […]

February 2, 2024 16

Africa

IMF working with several African countries

https://youtu.be/c7ZwwF1-f84 The IMF is working with authorities in several African countries to provide help stabilizing their economies and financial situations spokesperson Julie Kozack told reporters Thursday (March 23) in Washington, DC. Ghana is seeking funding from the Fund with The West African country, struggling with its worst economic crisis in a generation. Ghana secured a staff-level agreement with the IMF in December for a $3 billion loan, but approval is contingent […]

January 12, 2024 34

Opinion Pieces

Busting budget myths and unveiling practical budgeting

By Mauriza Fredericks, Group Brand Manager, Old Mutual Namibia Budgeting, the art of managing your income and expenses effectively, is often perceived as a daunting task, shrouded in myths and misconceptions. However, budgeting is an essential tool for achieving financial stability and reaching your financial goals, whether it's saving for a dream home, funding your children's education, or simply enjoying peace of mind. Even though many people want to manage […]

December 19, 2023 10

Local

The Namibian financial system remains stable, sound, and resilient amidst a challenging global and domestic economic environment

The Macroprudential Oversight Committee (MOC)1 of the Bank of Namibia (the Bank) held its second and last meeting of the year on the 07th of December 2023, to assess potential risks and vulnerabilities in the Namibian Financial System. Following a comprehensive assessment of domestic and global economic conditions, the Committee deemed the domestic financial system as stable, sound, and resilient. This is despite increasing risks and vulnerabilities stemming from […]

December 12, 2023 7

Namibia

How to talk to your family about money

By Mauriza Fredericks, Group Brand Manager, Old Mutual Namibia Money is a subject that often stirs unease, even within family circles. However, open and honest discussions about finances are indispensable for fostering trust and ensuring financial stability. In Namibia, where family bonds hold great significance, it's crucial to approach these conversations with sensitivity. This article delves into the art of conversing about money with three essential family groups: spouses, children, […]

December 4, 2023 26

Bank Windhoek’s strategic communication manager

Business / Economics

Thought Leadership: Plan your bonus to last the long run

By Samuel Linyondi, Bank Windhoek’s Strategic Communication Manager In October, the Bank of Namibia (BoN) left the repo unchanged at 7.75%, the highest in the past 14 years. If a repo rate increases, borrowing becomes more expensive, and product and service prices increase for consumers. The repo rate is one of the monetary tools to either control inflation or stimulate demand. Conversely, inflation is the rate of price increase over […]

November 23, 2023 17