Predicting the rand is a fools game, unless you are the best predictor in the business. Matthias Krieger, an analyst at Landesbank Baden-Wuerttemberg, is the best at predicting the rand. Says Mr. Krieger
The deteriorating competitiveness of South Africa and the populist government of Jacob Zuma is the reason why I’m convinced we’ll see a weaker rand over the year. I am pretty pessimistic about the political cost of South Africa.”
Read more on the prediction, by clicking here.
Rural Land Tenure
Sometimes, I however need a reminder that in some context the value of the rand matters less, because more fundamental reforms are needed. provides a critical perspective on recent announcements that title deeds will be issued.
WHEN King Goodwill Zwelithini announced recently that title deeds would be issued to households in rural KwaZulu-Natal, he omitted to say how this would fit in with the long-term lease agreements being issued by the Ingonyama Trust Board, of which he is the sole trustee. Read more
Small Business Set Asides
I think reform of rural tenure is a must and may have major impacts on asset holdings and the establishment of small businesses. Another big issue has been set asides for small business in government procurement. After many years, Treasury has finally put in place proposals.
The revision of the Preferential Procurement Regulations of 2011 was influenced , to a large extent , by the need to provide for a mechanism that will assist in targeting certain categories of persons, including looking at how government can procure at least 30 per cent from SMMEs, co – operatives, township and rural enterprises, and other targeted groups.
Lots to get through, and comments and an opportunity to comment. Policy geeks and small busienss owners click here.
Think with Google tells us how other’s shop
Slightly addictive indicator of how the world buys using Google data. No South African data. but fun to play around with. Go forth, website owners.
Which raises, the question, can President Zuma create a funnel that increases certainty, supports small business and creates jobs.