BizNews Briefing – Warning ANC on Iran; Driver’s licence chaos; Joburg mayor hoofed
In this episode of the BizNews Briefing, we hear from the director of a Cambridge University's Institute explaining the danger of the ANC's close relationship with Iran; How OUTA is to intensify its attack on the debacle around SA's dysfunctional Driver's Licence card issuing; Plus the DA's two most outspoken critics of the ANC, Rob Hersov and the very latest from the investment markets. The Briefing is hosted by BizNews editor Alec Hogg.
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BizNews Reporter ___STEADY_PAYWALL___
BizNews Briefing Highlights
Iran Insights and South Africa's Foreign Policy
- Alec Hogg reflects on insights shared by Iraj Abedian, emphasizing that 90% of Iranians oppose the revolutionary leadership in their country.
- Professor Charles Asher Small, Director of Cambridge University's Institute for the Study of Global Antisemitism, provides further perspectives on global antisemitism and Iran.
- Concerns are raised about South Africa's alignment with Iran and calls for a return to a neutral, non-aligned foreign policy stance, especially with President Cyril Ramaphosa assuming the G20 chairmanship.
Civil Society's Role Against Corruption
- Wayne Duvenage from OUTA discusses ongoing issues with South Africa's driver's license issuance system.
- Alec highlights the vital contributions of civil society organizations like OUTA in addressing corruption and governance challenges.
Johannesburg Politics Update
- Chris Steyn chats with Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku, DA leader in Johannesburg Metro Council, about the removal of the city's mayor and potential political shifts.
- DA stalwart Glynis Breytenbach critiques the recent reassignment of former Justice Minister Thembi Simelane.
Premier Feature: Rob Hersov on South Africa's Cabinet
- Rob Hersov critiques South Africa's bloated cabinet and reflects on last week's Dimension Data controversy. Judge Denise Fisher's judgment on the implicated executives is discussed.
- Hersov also touches on Bitcoin, with recent regulatory shifts in the U.S. seen as favorable for cryptocurrency adoption.
Market and Business News
- The Johannesburg Stock Exchange saw mixed performances:
- Resources struggled, while financials rose by 1.5%, driven by FirstRand's 2.5% increase.
- Baldwin Properties gained 6% and is up nearly 20% year-to-date.
- Stefanutti Stocks has surged 237% year-to-date, with outstanding performance since mid-year.
- Anglo Platinum and Impala Platinum fell by 3.7% and 3.6%, respectively.
- The South African Rand strengthened against the dollar and pound, while Bitcoin surged 6%, influenced by favorable regulatory changes in the U.S.
Political Developments
- The ANC lost Ward 3 in the Thabazimbi by-election to the Labour Party of South Africa, linked to AMCU. This marks the Labour Party's first council seat, signaling significant shifts in local dynamics.
- Coalition negotiations remain uncertain, with the DA maintaining its four seats and the ANC's support plummeting from 70% to 26%.
Springbok Sponsorship Update
- Altvest, backed by EasyEquities and Rainfin, has submitted a sponsorship bid for the Springboks. An update is expected in tomorrow's interview with Warren Wheatley.
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