insert_link Namibia FirstRand Namibia says ATM upgrades needed to process new notes FirstRand Namibia has announced that its FNB ATMs are currently unable to accept the Bank of Namibia’s newly issued banknotes for deposits. According to the bank, the machines can still dispense cash as usual. Still, technical upgrades are needed to enable them to recognise and process the new notes when customers make deposits. Group communications manager at FNB Namibia Kirsty Watermeyer: The Bank of Namibia recently introduced redesigned banknotes featuring […] today6 October, 2025
insert_link Business / Economics GDP growth slows to 1.6% in second quarter Photo: Adobe stock Namibia’s economy grew by 1.6 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2025, down from 2.8 percent in the first quarter and 3.3 percent in the same period of 2024, according to a new report by the First National Bank of Namibia (FNB). FNB economist Helena Mboti said the data indicates the strain on consumers.“Private consumption collapsed to negative 7.2 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of […] today1 October, 2025
insert_link Business / Economics Headline inflation eases to 3.2% in August Headline inflation in Namibia slowed to 3.2% year-on-year in August 2025, down from 3.5% in July and below market expectations of 3.5%. The slowdown was largely driven by softer food price pressures after improved regional rainfall boosted crop production. Food inflation fell from 6.1% in July to 5.2% in August, providing some relief for households. FNB economist Helena Mboti noted that this trend reflects a combination of improved harvests and […] today22 September, 2025
insert_link Business / Economics Swakopmund to host Global Policy Forum on inclusive finance Photo:afi-global.org More than 700 policymakers, regulators, and development partners are set to converge in Swakopmund for the 2025 Global Policy Forum, co-hosted by the Bank of Namibia. The four-day summit, beginning this week, will focus on advancing inclusive finance and fostering stronger international collaboration in financial policymaking. The forum will bring together key players from across the globe to discuss strategies aimed at improving access to financial services, particularly for […] today18 August, 2025
insert_link Business / Economics FNB introduces affordable banking FNB Namibia has launched its 2025 annual pricing structure, introducing measures to make banking more affordable and accessible. Effective today, the bank has eliminated all fees on local card swipes—a first in the Namibian market. According to FNB Group Communication Manager Kirsty Watermeyer, the zero-fee swipe policy is part of a broader strategy to foster financial inclusion and promote digital banking. “Banking should be simple, fair, and aligned with the […] today1 July, 2025
insert_link Business / Economics SMEs crucial to Namibia’s economic growth, says FNB Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are playing a growing role in economic development, with their impact reaching beyond just job creation. According to FNB Namibia's Head of SME, Nesdha De Jongh, SMEs are key to addressing some of the country’s most pressing issues, including high youth unemployment and inequality. “SMEs are the backbone of the economy,” De Jongh said. “We need to empower their growth so that they’ll be able […] today20 May, 2025
Business / Economics FNB Namibia scoops award for Best International Private Bank for 3rd consecutive year (Contributed Photo) By: Hertha Ekandjo FNB Namibia has been named the Best International Private Bank for the third consecutive year at the Euromoney Private Banking Awards held in London. This recognition solidifies the bank's position as a global private banking and wealth management leader. Euromoney's Private Banking Awards, now in their 20th year, are widely regarded as the most definitive and respected awards programme within the global banking industry. The […] today14 April, 2025
insert_link Business / Economics FNB Namibia freezes accounts over KYC non-compliance The First National Bank (FNB) Namibia has started freezing the accounts of customers who fail to comply with Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations, leaving some clients frustrated over the lack of access to their funds. The move is part of the bank’s obligation to adhere to the Financial Intelligence Act and other regulatory requirements aimed at preventing financial crimes. FNB Namibia’s spokesperson, Kirsty Watermeyer, said that freezing accounts […] today28 February, 2025
insert_link Business / Economics FNB Namibia house price index reports 7% growth in Q3 2024 The FNB Namibia House Price Index for the third quarter of 2024 has revealed a growth of 7%, with notable increases observed in the central, coastal, and northern regions. However, the southern regions continued to experience sluggish growth. According to Market Research Manager at FNB Namibia, Mandisa Van Wyk, the growth in house prices was also supported by improved transaction volumes, although they remain in contraction. […] today22 January, 2025
