South Africa

South Africa’s capital markets are continuing to enjoy relatively healthy growth on the back of improved regulation and supervision. The authorities are working to strengthen the market's regulatory framework, particularly in terms of settlement cycles and systemic risk related to over-the-counter securities. Technical and regulatory improvements at the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) are...

While South Africa’s banking sector already ranks as one of the best regulated and well capitalised in the region, regulatory changes are set to bring further improvements to the industry’s soundness and stability, as well as the treatment of its customers. The sector does, however, continue to face headwinds. As expansion of the broader economy has slowed, loan growth for banks has also eased...

South Africa’s economy has experienced relatively slow expansion in recent years, with GDP growth still short of the rates recorded prior to the global financial crisis of 2008-09. Like many of its emerging market peers, the country has been affected by falling commodity prices and the prospect of rising interest rates. However, South Africa continues to benefit from a series of comparative...

South Africa has long served as the “gateway to Africa”, and while recent years have seen other economies in the regional make up ground, it remains one of the most accessible, dynamic and well-regulated entry points to the continent’s roughly 1bn consumers. The country boasts a wide range of climates and landscapes, from arid semi-desert in Karoo to jagged Alpine landscapes in Ukhahlamba...

This section includes information on hotels, government and other listings, alongside useful tips for visitors on topics like currency, visas, language, communications, dress, business hours and electricity.