RC 260813SAfm

Thursday, 13 August 2026

Standard Bank’s strong interim results, South Africa’s new electronic travel system, and updates on the Spaza Shop Fund and Armscor’s IP review dominated the business agenda.

Listen · 1:28 · AI-read recap
  1. 18:19

    Standard Bank reported headline earnings up 10% to R26 billion and return on equity of 19.8%, with management saying the group is on track for its 2028 targets.

  2. 18:30

    The Tourism Minister said the new electronic travel authorisation lets visitors apply online and get an answer within 24 hours, with India, China, Mexico and Indonesia targeted in a digital campaign.

  3. 18:43

    The 150 million rand small-business portion of the Spaza Shop Fund has approved 1,386 shops and paid out 57 million rand, with officials estimating support for about 2,408 qualifying shops.

  4. 18:44

    Armscor is looking at external consultants to review its intellectual property portfolio, but a defence analyst warned much of the old value has been lost through underfunding and outdated technologies.

  5. 18:53

    Neo Heights Aviation Group’s founder said she built the airline, training academy and foundation over 15 years, aiming to make flying more affordable and to show women can lead in aviation.