The Importance of Location in Real Estate

In real estate, location is everything. From access to quality schools and transport links to vibrant local businesses and green spaces, the right neighbourhood can significantly impact both your lifestyle and long-term property value. This article explores the key factors that define desirable locations and how informed decisions can lead to better property investments.

Why microlenders are under the regulatory spotlight

Microlenders in South Africa play a crucial role in financial inclusion, offering small loans to individuals and businesses who lack access to traditional financial services. However, they face increasing regulatory scrutiny under both the Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FICA) and the National Credit Act (NCA). This article explores the compliance challenges microlenders face and the role of technology in helping them meet regulatory requirements while continuing to support underserved communities.

SOUTH AFRICA’S DIGITAL FUTURE HINDERED by RISING CYBER THREATS

The article discusses South Africa’s increasing vulnerability to cyber threats, particularly ransomware and digital extortion, which pose a significant challenge to the country’s ambition of becoming a leading digital economy. Despite strong digital infrastructure and growth in sectors like AI and fintech, South Africa’s cybersecurity efforts remain inadequate, with weak law enforcement and insufficient protections for critical infrastructure.

TV licences are outdated, but is a streaming levy the right fix?

The article explores the challenges surrounding South Africa’s outdated TV licence system and the proposal for a streaming levy to fund the public broadcaster, SABC. With TV licence compliance low and collection costs high, the government is considering a new model to sustain the SABC, but the implications of such a levy—on consumers, streaming services, and the local content industry—are complex. The article discusses potential outcomes, including higher subscription fees, reduced local content investment, and the need for a fair, transparent levy to support both the public broadcaster and the South African entertainment sector.

Specno calls on Government to work hand-in-hand with industry stakeholders to finalise comprehensive AI Policy

Specno is urging the South African government to collaborate closely with industry stakeholders to expedite the finalization of a comprehensive national AI policy. Highlighting the growing global importance of AI and its potential to boost economic sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, and public safety, Specno emphasizes the need for urgent action to ensure South Africa remains competitive in the AI landscape. The article discusses the challenges facing South Africa, including the digital divide and historical inequalities, and stresses the importance of leveraging AI to drive innovation and address critical issues.

The cloud pendulum: why companies are swinging back to on-prem

This article explores the growing trend of companies moving their data and workloads back from the cloud to on-premises platforms, driven by rising costs, security concerns, and performance challenges. It discusses the experiences of companies like 37signals and Expedia, highlighting that the decision to repatriate workloads depends on a well-defined strategy, careful evaluation of costs, and understanding the nuances of cloud and on-prem solutions. The piece emphasizes that a hybrid or multi-cloud approach may also be a viable option for many organizations, depending on their specific needs.

South African Startup Sensor Networks Partners with Global Geyser Leader Ariston

In a significant milestone for local innovation, South African startup Sensor Networks has secured a groundbreaking partnership with Ariston, the world’s largest geyser manufacturer, headquartered in Italy. This collaboration will introduce state-of-the-art smart water heating solutions to South African homes in 2025, marking a major achievement for homegrown technology on the global stage.