The 21st Edition Connected Banking Summit Innovation & Excellence Awards 2025 – Southern Africa will unite banking, fintech, and financial leaders in Johannesburg to discuss innovation, connectivity, and building a resilient financial ecosystem for the region’s future.
Category: South Africa News
South Africa News
Xago Expands Globally with AUSTRAC Registration and New Currency Integrations
Xago Technologies, a South African fintech specializing in digital payments via the XRP Ledger, has expanded globally by registering with AUSTRAC as a Digital Currency Exchange. The company now supports six major currencies, including NGN and EUR, enhancing cross-border transactions with speed, compliance, and security.
2025 Applications Open for $150,000 Jennifer Ward Oppenheimer (JWO) Research Grant Supported by Oppenheimer Generations Research and Conservation
The 2025 Jennifer Ward Oppenheimer (JWO) Research Grant offers $150,000 USD to an early-career African scientist for innovative environmental research addressing biodiversity, sustainability, and conservation challenges in Africa. Applications close 2 May 2025.
Traditional customer contact channels are leading businesses down their Kodak-like demise
South African businesses that rely solely on traditional communication channels risk obsolescence by ignoring smartbot technology. AI-powered WhatsApp chatbots offer faster, smarter customer engagement, boost ROI, and provide deeper insights than outdated methods like SMS, email, or call centers.
73% of South African facility managers plan to stay in the Industry, 46% say tech costs are holding them back
New MRI Software research shows 73% of South African facility managers plan to stay in the industry despite growing challenges. The report highlights urgent calls for smarter tech, AI adoption, and greater investment, as nearly half cite tech costs as the biggest barrier to transformation.
THE IMPERATIVE FOR EXPANDING PRIVATE TERTIARY EDUCATION
South Africa’s future economic growth hinges on expanding access to quality tertiary education. As public universities face growing pressure, private institutions like MANCOSA are stepping in to bridge the gap. With innovation, flexibility, and a focus on skills for the digital economy, private higher education is vital to unlocking the nation’s potential.
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.
Google SA launches R2.5 billion cloud region in JHB, offering local businesses access to the world’s best data warehouse
Google South Africa has launched a R2.5 billion Google Cloud region in Johannesburg, marking the first such project in Africa. This investment provides local businesses with access to world-class data warehouse platforms and is poised to drive innovation, economic growth, and job creation across the continent.
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.