growth
Strong outlook for SA banks: S&P
Ratings agency Standard & Poor's says the outlook for South Africa's banks is robust, with strong growth and minimal exposure to subprime mortgages likely to support profitability in 2008 and 2009.
Microsoft partners with Blue Label
Global software corporation Microsoft buys 12 percent of newly listed South African company Blue Label Telecoms, providing Blue Label with an opportunity to increase its global footprint.
SA wine back on growth track
South African wine exports are on the rise again, with volumes up by 16% in the year to November 2007. Another positive trend is that the country's global reach has widened, significantly diversifying risk.
IFC boost for cellphone banking
The International Finance Corporation has taken up a 10% stake in Johannesburg-based Wizzit Bank, which enables its customers to operate bank accounts using cellular phones, extending banking services to low-income earners and customers in rural areas.
China buys into Standard Bank
China's largest bank, the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, has purchased a 20% stake in South Africa's Standard Bank for US$5.5-billion, representing the largest foreign direct investment in the country to date.
Sasol expands China presence
South African petrochemicals company Sasol has opened an office in the Chinese city of Shanghai in order to market its diverse range of chemical solvents in the world's fastest growing major economy.
Boost for SA aerospace industry
The government has endorsed a number of initiatives to boost South Africa's aerospace industry, including building a multi-million rand component supplier park and taking steps to address the skills shortage in the industry.
US firm to build new power plants
A consortium led by US power producer AES has been selected as the preferred bidder to build, own and operate two new power plants in South Africa, representing an investment of over R5-billion during construction, a significant portion of which will constitute foreign direct investment in the country.
Mbeki, business leaders meet
The issues of electricity security, improvements to South Africa's criminal justice system, and skills development dominated the agenda of President Thabo Mbeki's latest meeting with local business leaders.
SA paint market set to grow
The South African building paints market raked in US$630-million (about R4.4-billion) in 2006, with revenue set to grow even further as construction activity and household income increases, says international consulting firm Frost & Sullivan.