Monday, 31 August 2026

Eskom reported a second consecutive profitable year, with profit rising to R30.3 billion from R14.1 billion, while its 65% energy availability factor remained below target.

SAA needs a strategic equity partner for capital and skills; aviation analyst Guy Leach warned it may close without investment, estimating at least R10 billion is required.

Bidvest increased free cash flow 27% to R12.5 billion and reduced net debt by R4 billion; negotiations to sell Bidvest Bank restarted after Access Bank approval failed.

RCL Foods’ revenue fell 4%, EBIT 15% and headline earnings per share 30%, as sugar imports and a salmonella-related pet-food recall weighed on performance.

US rate expectations shifted sharply after Jackson Hole, with markets pricing a 50% chance of two further rate hikes this year, pressuring equities and potentially the rand.