News 06:00

BULLETIN 30 January 6 am

Good morning. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# Lesetja Kganyago warns of global shocks and geopolitical risks in 2026
# Food and electricity prices remain the key inflation risks for South Africa
# And cricket: South Africa produced a poor showing at the Under-19 World Cup

# South African Reserve Bank governor Lesetja Kganyago says global uncertainty remains high as 2026 begins, with rising geopolitical tensions and threats to central bank independence posing risks to markets. Kganyago warns that growing government debt, trade imbalances, and potential risks from artificial intelligence could affect global financial stability. He told the media that despite these pressures, global growth remains steady, supported by fiscal stimulus and artificial intelligence-driven investment:

Meanwhile, food and electricity prices remain key concerns for South Africa’s inflation outlook. While overall inflation eased to near the three-percent target, concerns persist over rising meat prices due to foot-and-mouth disease and potential electricity price hikes, which could affect households and businesses. Kganyago says they continue to monitor these factors closely as they aim to stabilise inflation:

# The ANC says job creation and economic transformation remain top priorities for this year. The party will also boost skills training, provide more job opportunities for youth, and work with business, labour, and communities to make sure economic growth and services benefit people’s daily lives. Speaking at a post-national executive committee lekgotla media briefing, ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula said the party also committed to reducing inequality and poverty through inclusive growth and stronger social programmes:

# The City of Johannesburg Council has voted to establish the position of deputy mayor, with an annual salary of more than 1.2-million-rand, with associated benefits. The ANC tabled the motion. A total of 107 councillors voted in favour, with 87 voting against, and 37 abstained. ANC Regional Secretary Sasabona Manganye says the new position will significantly improve operational stability in the metro. The deputy mayor’s role will be established as a member of the mayoral committee, while supplementing the work of the mayor.

# German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Thursday said Europe had found “self-respect” in standing up for a rules-based global order. He called for a stronger NATO within Europe while still extending the hand of cooperation to the United States. Speaking to the German parliament, Merz said Europe will no longer be cowed by tariff threats. His speech underscored how European leaders have been emboldened to try to project European strength and values, after the standoff with Trump over Greenland, global trade ructions, and nearly four years of war between Russia and Ukraine.

# Cricket: South Africa closed out a dismal Under-19 World Cup campaign, going down to Sri Lanka by five wickets in their Super Six clash in Bulawayo. South Africa opener Jorich van Schalkwyk scored 116 off 130 balls to guide his team to 261 for seven. Sri Lankan spinner Vigneshwaran Akash took four wickets. In reply, 110 in 94 balls from Viran Chamuditha helped Sri Lanka chase down the target with 24 balls to spare. South Africa lost four games in the tournament while winning just one against Tanzania.

# And the financial indicators: The dollar trades at 15-rand-72-cents and the euro at 18-rand-82-cents. One British pound costs 21-rand-71-cents and Bitcoin trades at 84-thousand-259-dollars. Gold sells at five-thousand-379-dollars-35-cents a fine ounce and Brent crude oil is quoted at 69-dollars-47-cents a barrel.

Stay tuned for more news………….