RC 260824Power FMTehillah Niselow
Monday, 24 August 2026
Power Business examined tough operating conditions, investment and reform prospects, and how AI and financial pressure are reshaping South African consumers’ choices.
- 18:26
Mpact’s revenue rose 1.1% to R5.96 billion, but EBITDA fell 4.4% and operating profit nearly 16% as weak paper prices and input costs hurt earnings.
- 18:37
Mpact closed its loss-making BM6 paper machine at Springs, while redirecting investment towards agriculture packaging, including a R1.3 billion upgrade at its Mkhondo mill.
- 19:15
More than 80% of consumers reported a negative customer experience in the past year, yet many now leave silently rather than complain, making feedback harder for businesses to read.
- 19:11
AI tools are increasingly helping South Africans find products, compare prices and services, with consumers also open to AI placing orders, filling carts and booking travel.
- 19:43
Nigeria’s mature oil fields are declining, while roughly 300,000 barrels a day is committed to repaying loans; economist Calvin Emmanuel doubted new offshore incentives would improve government finances.