trends

South Africa has ranked moderately in a report showcasing how domestic policy can foster global innovation. South Africa came in at 30 out of 56 countries. Kenya was the only other African country to be featured in the rankings.

Next week the South African cricket team walk out on to the Wanderers field to take on England, not in their traditional green and gold, but in pink as part of the team's and the sport's ongoing support of the PinkDrive to raise awareness of and funds for breast cancer research.

The results of the 2015 Anholt Nation Brand Index were released at a Brand South Africa presentation in Johannesburg on 18 November. South Africa once again recorded consistent scores in all six dimensions of the respected global survey against 50 other countries.

South Africa has announced amendments to the recently implemented visa regulations for travellers into and out of South Africa. The changes have been largely welcomed by the tourism industry and South Africans travellers alike. The changes will be implemented from November 2015.

The Top 50 South African brands have been announced by Brand South Africa and Brand Africa Finance. These brands are said to contribute not only to the country's economy, but to the image they portray when doing business internationally.

Like many entrepreneurs, Maite Makgoba had to overcome a lot of challenges to get her plastic princess on to the market. Now she can brag on social media when stars such as Nicki Minaj compliment this particular product.

In recognition of its sustainable properties, Project Solaris has received certification from Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials. It's a stamp of approval for reducing greenhouse gases, developing a rural area, and safeguarding the natural environment.

According to research by business networking service LinkedIn that identifies the top 20 countries professionals are moving to for employment, South Africa is attracting more professionals to the country compared to business talent leaving for other pastures.

Three-quarters of adult South Africans have bank accounts, and women generally have equal access to formal financial services. Several mobile money payment systems, initiatives to digitise government transfers, and an extensive banking infrastructure all support financial inclusion.

A recent global Pew Research Center survey has found that consumers in emerging and developing nations, including South Africa, have the most positive economic outlook, while those in more advanced economies are more discontent with the present and negative about the future.