Author: Gugu Lourie

Generative AI (GenAI) is the next big leap for PC technology, promising to bring unseen levels of productivity and efficiency to businesses worldwide. With AI-enabled PCs, we can expect faster decision-making, streamlined workflows and smarter data analysis. Just as the introduction of the PC 40 years ago revolutionised the way we work, GenAI will shape the future of the PC-human experience, unlocking new possibilities for growth and innovation. As AI grows alongside technological advancements in PCs, Dell predicts that PCs will move beyond driving human productivity to driving human performance. AI promises immense productivity benefits, reduced latency and improved cost…

Santam, South Africa’s largest short-term insurer, has wholly acquired Kandua, a leading online marketplace company for home services. Kandua will merge with Santam’s existing home service offering, Home+, forming a wholly owned, independent subsidiary of the insurer. The Kandua.com website offers an online marketplace for home services that enable consumers to connect with, compare and hire professionals across hundreds of service types, such as plumbers, electricians, carpenters, and more. Service providers can use the ‘Kandua for Pros’ app to find new customers and easily manage their core business processes. “Kandua’s talent, technology and customer base are valuable assets for our…

Capitec Bank is taking decisive steps to address the persistent issue of long queues at its ATMs. Capitec clients continue to favour cash transactions despite the availability of electronic alternatives. This preference for paper money has led to frequent social media jibes about Capitec’s loyal patrons enduring lengthy waits. Clients choose Capitec ATMs over those of other banks even if it means standing in line for a longer time. Capitec’s retail bank active clients grew to 22 million versus 19.9 million in 2023, 11.2 million of whom use the banking app compared to 9.4 million in 2023. As Capitec’s customer base expands,…

Discovery Bank today introduced its new Home Loan product, offering clients competitive, personalised interest rates based on their individual risk profiles. Leveraging its established Shared-value Banking model, clients can reduce their interest rate by up to 1% by effectively managing their finances with Vitality Money and securing their home loan and property with Discovery’s insurance products. Discovery Bank clients can secure a market-related rate upfront and further reduce their interest repayments over time by managing their finances wisely, resulting in long-term savings. This shared-value approach could enable the current Discovery Bank client base to save up to R2.8 billion in…

Elon Musk’s AI startup, xAI, announced today that it has secured $6 billion in a new funding round. This significant investment, one of the largest in the rapidly growing AI sector, aims to bolster xAI’s competitive stance against rivals like OpenAI, Microsoft, and Google. The Series B funding round attracted support from prominent investors including Valor Equity Partners, Vy Capital, Andreessen Horowitz, Sequoia Capital, Fidelity, Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal, and Kingdom Holding, as noted in the startup’s blog post. xAI has made significant strides over the past year. From the announcement of the company in July 2023, to the release…

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has proposed a $6 million fine against Steve Kramer, who has confessed to orchestrating the fake call sent to thousands of people in New Hampshire on the eve of the state’s January primary. Kramer used used voice-cloning tech to impersonate President Biden in a series of illegal robocalls. According to NPR, Kramer has also been indicted on criminal charges in four New Hampshire counties, including 13 counts of voter suppression, a felony, and 13 counts of impersonating a candidate, a misdemeanour. In a statement, the FCC proposed a substantial fine for apparently illegal robocalls made using deepfake, AI-generated voice…

Tech giant Google has revealed plans to construct a new fibre optic cable called Umoja, aimed at enhancing internet connectivity by linking Africa to Australia. The ambitious project underscores Google’s commitment to bolstering digital infrastructure across the African continent. This is the first ever fibre optic route to directly connect Africa with Australia. Anchored in Kenya, the Umoja cable route will pass through Uganda, Rwanda, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, including the Google Cloud region, before crossing the Indian Ocean to Australia. Umoja’s terrestrial path was built in collaboration with Liquid Technologies to form a highly…

Kagiso Trust is set to broaden the reach of its highly successful coding and robotics pilot programme, extending its benefits to more schools across the Free State Province. Following the positive outcomes and enthusiastic reception of the initial pilot, Kagiso Trust aims to empower a larger number of students with essential digital skills, fostering innovation and enhancing educational outcomes in the region. This expansion represents a significant step forward in equipping young learners with the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world. On April 11, 2024, a graduation awards ceremony celebrated the success of a pilot programme…

For years, Africa has been the dumping ground for inferior used cars from abroad. South Africa outlaws the importation of used vehicles. But each year around 30,000 illegal used car imports (often referred to as ‘grey imports’) leak into South Africa, coming from countries that import second-hand vehicles like SA’s landlocked neighbours Botswana, Lesotho and Eswatini (Swaziland), revealed Gary Scott: CEO of KIA South Africa. He was speaking at the AutoTrader Dealer Convention in April, where key industry players discussed illegal used car imports and their impact on South Africa. By circumventing official channels, these illegal used car imports evade taxes…

Driving through the streets of Johannesburg, the Volvo EX30 consistently impressed during a test drive. Quick Verdict The EX30 offers a delightful driving experience, and its minimalist interior exudes refinement and uniqueness. Reasonably priced, the EX30 comes with a comprehensive array of standard safety features and equipment, making it a compelling choice. With impressive performance and a competitive electric driving range, this battery-powered Volvo model truly stands out. Tailored for the modern urban lifestyle, the EX30 is a compact luxury car that ticks all the boxes. The Volvo EX30 – a discreet yet thrilling hot hatch alternative – caters to those who…

Used car sales grew 7% year-on-year in April 2024 with total sales amounting to R11.7 billion. While this looks to indicate a market that might be slowly recovering, the fewer public holidays in April this year does not perhaps reflect an accurate comparison. In the used car market, Volkswagen retained its second spot behind Toyota despite losing that position to Suzuki in the new vehicle market. Toyota led sales with 4,929 units ahead of Volkswagen’s sales of 3,903, and Ford sales of 2,943. Though still some way behind VW, Suzuki gained two positions in April, moving from ninth position to…

Curiosity often surrounds the compensation packages of top executives, particularly in publicly traded companies. In this context, Balwin Properties, a prominent player listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), is no exception. At the helm of this successful property group is Steve Brookes, the company’s CEO and founder. Understanding the financial remuneration of such a key figure can provide valuable insights into the company’s priorities and financial health. So, just how much is Balwin Properties paying Brookes? Today, the company published its 2024 annual report that disclosed the salaries of the company’s executives. The company revealed that Brrokes was paid…

Balwin, a national specialist in developing large-scale sectional title estates for South Africa’s growing low-to-middle income population, continues to equip its apartments with fibre connectivity. These apartments are designed to appeal to a diverse range of home buyers, including first-time buyers, young professionals, young families, older families, retirees, and buy-to-let investors. Each apartment features modern fitted kitchens, prepaid water and solar-assisted electricity, eco-friendly fittings and appliances, and is fibre-enabled. Balwin generates annuity income through its subsidiary, Balwin Fibre, which provides high-speed fibre connectivity to homeowners within its estates. Today, Balwin announced that continued growth of the Balwin Fibre annuity business…

Checkers Sixty60 is beta testing the new and improved version of its app, enabling customers to shop for over 10 000 larger Hyper products, with same day delivery scheduled within a 60-minute time slot. With a new fleet of eye-catching Hyper delivery vans, Checkers Sixty60’s product offering now extends beyond groceries to include larger items, ranging from camping and outdoor gear to small appliances, baby products, toys, kitchen and home electronics, gardening and pool equipment – all at supermarket prices. Delivery is free during beta testing and will remain free for Xtra Savings Plus subscribers. “We’re confident that the next…

Volkswagen is making significant strides in enhancing the technical learning experience at Kariega High School. By providing essential resources and support, the automotive giant is ensuring that students have access to cutting-edge technology and educational tools. The initiative not only aims to improve the quality of education but also prepares students for future careers in the ever-evolving technological landscape. The nature of work is evolving rapidly, with many traditional jobs being automated or augmented by technology. To equip the next generation with the skills they need to thrive in the digital age, it is imperative that technology and automation are…

Fabricio Bloisi has recently taken the helm as the CEO of Prosus and Naspers, two prominent global consumer internet groups. Known for his dynamic leadership and innovative approach, Bloisi’s appointment marks a significant milestone for both companies. As he steps into this pivotal role, many are eager to learn more about the man poised to lead these industry giants into the future. This article delves into Bloisi’s background, his career journey, and what his vision might mean for the future of Prosus and Naspers. Bloisi is a prominent Brazilian entrepreneur known for his significant contributions to the technology sector in…

Prosus today announced that the Boards of Prosus and Naspers have unanimously approved the appointment of Fabricio Bloisi as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Prosus and Naspers Group. The appointment is effective as of 1 July 2024. Bloisi assumes the role of Group CEO from his role as CEO, iFood. Fabricio acquired iFood in 2013 when it was a 20-person start-up. He has since grown it rapidly and profitably to become Brazil’s leading food delivery company. Fabricio is a proven entrepreneur and innovator with deep roots in operating, building and scaling world-class technology companies within growth markets. Prosus board said it…

In a strategic move to expand its investment portfolio, Mineworkers Investment Company (MIC) has acquired a stake in Chill Beverages, the renowned owner of the premium mixer brand Fitch & Leedes. The acquisition marks a significant step for MIC as it ventures further into the beverage industry, highlighting its commitment to diversifying its holdings and supporting innovative South African businesses. The partnership is poised to enhance Chill Beverages’ market presence and drive future growth, leveraging MIC’s robust investment capabilities and industry expertise. MIC and Admaius Capital Partners, together the (Alterra Consortium), acquired a majority stake in Chill Beverages (Chill) from…

As the digital landscape in South Africa evolves, online scams have become increasingly sophisticated, posing significant risks to individuals and businesses alike. Here are ten prevalent scams to watch out for in 2024: Deepfake Impersonation Scams: Scammers use AI to create realistic fake videos or audio clips, often impersonating CEOs or family members to trick victims into transferring money. Investment Scams: Fraudulent investment schemes promise high returns. Always verify the legitimacy of the investment platform. Charity Scams: Fake charities solicit donations, especially during crises. Verify charities through reputable databases. Coronavirus Scams: Scammers exploit COVID-19 fears with fake testing kits, vaccines,…

RelyEZ, a Bloomberg’s Tier 1 provider of innovative energy storage solutions, and Veers Group – a South African renewable energy group, today announced the formation of a strategic joint venture to address South Africa’s pressing energy challenges. This collaboration represents a significant step forward in the quest for sustainable energy solutions and underlines the commitment of both companies to driving positive change in the region. The joint venture, officially incorporated as RelyEZ South Africa and led by Hashveer Singh CA(SA) with Operations Director Muneeb Gambeno and Finance Director Majdi Galvaan, will focus on leveraging the combined expertise, resources and technologies…

French media group Canal+ now owns 45.2% of MultiChoice, Africa’s biggest pay TV operator. Canal+ has acquired in on/off market transactions, a further 7,374,918 MultiChoice Shares, as follows: On Wednesday, 8 May 2024, Canal+ acquired 4,709,759 MultiChoice Shares in on/off market transactions for an average consideration of ZAR 119,66 per MultiChoice Share On Thursday, 9 May 2024, Canal+ acquired 387,354 MultiChoice Shares in on/off market transactions for an average consideration of ZAR 119,44 per MultiChoice Share On Friday, 10 May 2024, Canal+ acquired 2,277,805 MultiChoice Shares in on/off market transactions for an average consideration of ZAR 119,68 per MultiChoice Share…

Transitioning to renewable energy is more than just a means to avoid the disruptive effects of power outages for Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA), but rather a conscious step towards reducing the environmental impact of fossil fuels. Recognising the effect of fossil fuels on global climate change, VWGA is striving to minimise its dependence on these energy sources. As the nation celebrates Energy Month in May, VWGA highlights its commitment to become carbon neutral in vehicle and component production by 2030 through its Zero Impact Factory initiatives. To this end, significant investments totalling up to R100 million have been made in…

Agri Business Network and FutureFarm today announced the launch of AgRetail on the FutureFarm platform. The AgRetail mission is to lower the cost of inputs for South African farmers. Using the FutureFarm web and mobile app, AgRetail farmer members enjoy the revolutionary convenience and transparency of comparing prices and buying commodity inputs at the push of a button. A range of Diesel, Crop Protection and Fertilizer inputs are available from launch. AgRetail is FREE and easy to join and a limited number of memberships are available during the startup phase of the venture. Gerhard Kriel, CEO of Agri Business Network…

Vodacom Group on Monday disclosed a 10.8% decline in full-year earnings, citing setbacks from Ethiopia start-up losses, increased finance and energy expenses, and inflationary forces. The company, majority-owned by Britain’s Vodafone Group, said headline earnings per share (HEPS) dropped to R8.46 in the year ended 31 March, versus R9.48 a year earlier. In 2022, Vodacom co-launched Safaricom Ethiopia in partnership with a consortium, banking on the potential growth of the populous nation. Vodacom holds a direct 5.7% stake in the venture. “A combination of start-up losses in Ethiopia, higher finance and energy costs, the impact of absorbing inflationary pressures, and…

Design is a dynamic discipline. Take, for instance, the humble automobile. Today’s vehicles look exceedingly different to those of years gone by, having evolved in dimensions, proportions, ergonomics and indeed overall styling. The global automotive market’s inevitable shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) has accelerated this usually fairly gradual change, since dedicated flat-floor platforms (as opposed to underpinnings created to accommodate internal combustion engines) have afforded designers far greater freedom. It’s a similar case inside, though perhaps for other reasons. Yes, the modern car’s uncluttered dashboard is a far cry from the button-festooned facias of vehicles from just a few short…