
African Ratings Agency Prepares to Take On ‘Big Three' This Year
The agency will publish its first sovereign rating report by the end of the year or early 2026, said Misheck Mutize, lead expert on credit-rating companies at the African Peer Review Mechanism, an African Union structure. It will appoint a chief executive officer in the third quarter, and candidates have already been shortlisted, he said last week.
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2 hours ago
- Yahoo
Shein and Temu outpace global retail giants in South Africa's fashion market
By Siyanda Mthethwa JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) -China-founded e-commerce retailers Shein and Temu have captured a combined 3.6% share of South Africa's retail, clothing, textile, footwear and leather (CTFL) market, accounting for 7.3 billion rand ($405 million) in sales in 2024, a report showed on Tuesday. Shein entered the market in 2020, followed by Temu in 2024. Both have disrupted the local retail landscape through aggressive pricing, strategic marketing, and using tax loopholes that initially gave them a competitive edge over local retailers. Their appeal to price-sensitive consumers has impacted local retailers, who urged regulators last year to close the tax loophole, which eventually ended last year. The Localisation Support Fund (LSF) report found that domestic retailers' market share of CTFL declined from 75.3% in 2011 to 74% in 2024. Meanwhile, international brick-and-mortar brands like H&M, Zara, and Cotton On hold a combined 3.4% share. Shein and Temu now command a combined 3.6% share of the CTFL market, and 37.1% of South Africa's e-commerce CTFL market, with Shein alone accounting for 28% of online ladies' CTFL sales. "Those (international)retailers have acquired this market share over a period of 13 years, and Shein and Temu have managed to match and surpass this in just a five-year period," said Sean Mercer, principal consultant at consulting firm BMA. ($1 = 18.0270 rand) Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data


News24
3 hours ago
- News24
Jonas yet to travel to US as envoy; SA eyes relaxing trade rules: Today's top 7 stories
News24 brings you the top 7 stories of the day. News24 brings you the top stories of the day, summarised into neat little packages. Read through quickly or listen to the articles via our customised text-to-speech feature. X/@MYANC Fed-up ANC won't kick DA out but mulls including ActionSA and NCC in GNU shake-up - The ANC's NEC will not expel the DA from the GNU despite being fed up with their 'theatrics'. - Instead, the ANC plans to invite ActionSA and the NCC to join the GNU, potentially leading to a reconfiguration of Cabinet positions. - Concerns about market stability and investor confidence influenced the decision to retain the DA, despite internal criticism. Joburg political drama deepens as minority parties threaten to pull support for coalition - Minority parties in Johannesburg's coalition government are threatening to withdraw support due to perceived disrespect from the ANC and disagreements over key positions. - Former mayor Kabelo Gwamanda says the minority parties feel they deserve the finance MMC position and are not being treated as equal partners in the coalition. - Mayor Dada Morero faces criticism for governance failures, including a warning from the finance minister regarding unauthorised expenditure and non-compliance with financial laws. US tariffs: SA govt may relax competition rules for exporters - South Africa plans to introduce an exemption to competition rules, allowing exporters affected by the 30% US tariff to collaborate in ways that might normally violate the Competition Act. - The Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (DTIC) intends to use the proposed transformation fund to help exporters diversify into new markets. - An export support desk has been established to provide information on the tariffs and assist companies in accessing new markets. Thulani Mbele/Gallo Images SA envoy Mcebisi Jonas has not yet travelled to US on official duty - Lamola - Mcebisi Jonas, South Africa's special envoy to the US appointed in April, has not travelled to the US in that capacity, confirmed by Minister Ronald Lamola. - The DA criticised Jonas' absence, especially amid strained US-SA relations, while the Presidency defended his behind-the-scenes work on trade and diplomacy. - The situation has sparked controversy, including accusations of disinformation and political battles, with international relations becoming a point of contention within the government. Bok evolution: Attack under Tony Brown? What about 'D' under Flannery? - Tony Brown's attacking mindset is shaping the Springboks' game plan for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. - Jerry Flannery is building on Jacques Nienaber's defensive foundation while adding his own ideas. - The upcoming Rugby Championship will test the Springboks' growth against tougher opponents like Australia and New Zealand. ANCKZN/X 'My wives have been in business for many years': Tender outrage unjustified, says ANC boss - ANC KZN heavyweight Thanduxolo Sabelo's wives allegedly scored two tenders in the National School Nutrition Programme, sparking conflict of interest concerns. - The DA has requested an urgent investigation into the awarding of the tenders, citing concerns about companies linked to Sabelo's wives and Deputy Minister Sibiya's wife. - The DA also alleges that some companies shortlisted for the programme lack valid registration or tax compliance, raising further questions about the integrity of the process. Mark Wessels NAF CEO on fest's future, its decreasing scale and navigating funding challenges - Despite funding challenges and infrastructure issues in Makhanda, the CEO of the National Arts Festival, Monica Newton, remains optimistic about the event's future and its ability to attract a younger audience. - The festival missed out on funding from the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture due to a technical issue and is adapting to changes in the policy environment and funding models. - NAF is actively seeking to expand partnerships with foundations and the private sector to ensure financial viability and sustainability while continuing to believe in the power of the arts.
Yahoo
4 hours ago
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Key Industry Players Like SPACEX and Airbus Lead LEO Satellite Advancements
The global LEO satellite market is driven by increasing LEO satellite launches for commercial, government, and defense applications. The market offers opportunities for data and remote sensing service providers, investors, and technical service providers. With low costs, advanced mechanics, and ease of launch, LEO satellites see rising investments. The payloads segment is set to grow fastest, driven by demand for customizable, mission-specific instruments. The commercial segment, led by players like SPACEX and Amazon, will dominate by 2025, expanding global internet access. Middle East & Africa is the fastest-growing region, aided by government support and a need for improved connectivity. Key players like L3Harris Technologies, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman invest heavily in innovations, positioning the market for significant expansion. Dublin, Aug. 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "LEO Satellite Market by Subsystem [Satellite Bus (Command & Data Handling, Electric Power System), Payload (Optical, Infrared, Radar), Solar Panel, Satellite Antenna], Satellite Mass, Application, End Use, Frequency, and Region - Global Forecast to 2030" has been added to offering. The LEO satellite market is poised to reach USD 20.69 billion by 2030, up from USD 11.81 billion in 2025. The surge in LEO satellite launches for commercial, government, and defense applications is anticipated to drive market growth. This sector provides vast opportunities for data service providers, satellite service providers, remote sensing service providers, technical service providers, and investors. Key factors such as versatility, low costs, advanced mechanics, ease of assembly and launch, mass production abilities, and short lifecycles have fostered increased investment in LEO satellites. As new technologies develop and satellite operations expand, the volume of satellite data and its applications are set to grow. The payloads segment is expected to exhibit the fastest growth during the forecast period. The LEO satellite market has been segmented based on subsystem types, including satellite buses, payloads, solar panels, satellite antennas, and others. Among these, payloads are predicted to grow the quickest due to rising demand for mission-specific instruments supporting diverse applications like climate monitoring and secure communications. The segment's expansion is fueled by the rise of data-driven services and the integration of AI-enabled payloads for onboard data processing. The demand for high-performance payloads is driven by sectors using small weather-monitoring satellites for tracking atmospheric conditions and Earth observation missions employing advanced imaging for urban planning and disaster response. This increase in application-specific functionality, coupled with cost reductions in payload miniaturization and demand from both commercial and governmental satellite constellations, is boosting growth. The commercial segment is estimated to acquire the highest share in 2025 The LEO satellite market is categorized by end use into commercial, government & military, and dual use. The commercial segment is projected to dominate in 2025, owing to the reduced costs and simplified processes of launching small satellites, which have made extending internet access to remote areas feasible. Companies like SPACEX (US) and Amazon (US) are investing heavily to expand global internet coverage. Advancing technologies are leading to smaller, cost-effective satellites, saving money and time for launches. Governments support these initiatives by offering permits and creating regulations that streamline operations, ensuring sustained growth for the commercial segment of the LEO satellite industry. The Middle East & Africa is expected to be the fastest-growing region during the forecast period The LEO satellite market is set for rapid expansion in the Middle East & Africa due to essential broadband internet access driven by digital transformation efforts. These regions, where geological conditions hinder traditional communication methods, see satellite technology as vital in bridging connectivity gaps. Governments are actively fostering space technology advancement through effective policies, regulatory frameworks, and investment incentives that encourage private sector participation. Satellite demand is also influenced by the need for remote education, e-government services, and smart city development-positioning the Middle East & Africa as a strategic hub for continental trade and communication. The partnership between regional telecom operators and global satellite vendors helps make satellite services more accessible and affordable. Major players in the LEO satellite market include L3Harris Technologies (US), Lockheed Martin Corporation (US), Northrop Grumman Corporation (US), Airbus Defence and Space (Netherlands), and SPACEX (US). Research Coverage This study examines the LEO satellite market across various segments and subsegments, aiming to estimate market size and growth potential through an analysis of factors like satellite mass, subsystems, applications, end users, frequency bands, and regions. The study also includes a thorough competitive analysis of key players. The report provides insights on the following: Analysis of key drivers such as the rising demand for satellite internet services, the need for earth observation imagery, expanding satellite networks for internet access in underserved areas, and increasing launches of CubeSats Product Development: In-depth innovation and development analysis by companies across various regions Market Development: Comprehensive information about lucrative markets Market Diversification: Exhaustive information on new solutions, untapped geographies, recent developments, and investments in the LEO satellite market Competitive Assessment: Detailed assessment of market shares, strategies, and product offerings of leading players like L3Harris Technologies, Lockheed Martin Corporation, Northrop Grumman Corporation, Airbus Defence and Space, and SPACEX, among others Key Topics Covered: Market Dynamics Drivers Elevated Demand for Satellite Internet Services Need for Earth Observation Imagery and Analytics Increasing Launches of Cubesats Restraints Stringent Government Policies Limited Coverage and Complexity of Leo Satellites Opportunities Potential Applications of Laser Beam Pointing Technology Technological Advances in Electric Propulsion Systems, Antennas, and Ground Stations High Adoption of Software-Defined Technology Booming 3D Printing Technology Challenges Concerns Over Growing Space Debris Complex Supply Chain Management Case Study Analysis IoT and Communication Satellites Space-based Wireless Monitoring Systems Measurement of Magnetic and Electric Fields in Ionosphere Real-Time Data for Emergency Systems Satellite Radiation Hardness Test Company Profiles Key Players Spacex Lockheed Martin Corporation Airbus Defence and Space Northrop Grumman L3Harris Technologies, Inc. Thales Alenia Space Oneweb Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd. Planet Labs Pbc Sierra Nevada Corporation Maxar Technologies Gomspace Mitsubishi Electric Corporation Exolaunch GmbH China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation Bae Systems RTX OHB SE The Aerospace Corporation Millennium Space Systems, Inc. Kuiper Systems LLC Other Players MDA AAC Clyde Space Aselsan A.S. Pumpkin Inc. Alba Orbital Limited Endurosat Earth-I Ltd. Nanoavionics Alen Space Nearspace Launch, Inc. For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data