BizNews Radio

Download and read the BNC#8 post-conference PDF here: https://bit.ly/4eB6uCi

In a candid address to the Hermanus Rotary Club, BizNews editor Alec Hogg reflects on the key takeaways from BizNews Conference 8, unpacking South Africa’s economic stagnation, governance failures, and the growing realisation that “Pretoria will not provide.” Drawing on insights from global and local thought leaders, he highlights both the risks of a “parasitic state” and the opportunities for renewal through civic action, investment discipline, and self-reliance—offering a sober yet ultimately hopeful outlook for the country’s future.

Jock of the Bushveld, the classic story of how the runt of the litter became the trusted, gutsy companion of Sir Percy FitzPatrick during South Africa’s goldmining era, is one of the country’s most enduring stories. The book once outsold the Bible locally and was adapted into a feature film by producer Duncan MacNeillie, released in 1986. Now, a new generation will be able to see the film, which is being upscaled in 4K with the help of AI. In an interview with BizNews, MacNeillie said his original master copy of the film was destroyed and that, for years, he tried unsuccessfully to upgrade the film, which enjoyed one of the longest theatrical runs in SterKinekor’s history. Financially, the theme song, Spirit of the Great Heart, became Johnny Clegg’s most successful song. With recent advances in AI, MacNeillie is now able to restore and rerelease the film for a new generation. While Disney showed interest at the time, the film was blocked internationally because of apartheid. This beloved story will now be available first to South African audiences and then worldwide. – Linda van Tilburg

DA finance spokesperson Mark Burke slams the ANC’s procurement reforms as costly, restrictive and ripe for corruption. He warns taxpayers will pay more for fewer services as competition shrinks and politically connected elites benefit. With legal challenges looming and public frustration rising, the battle over state spending could shape South Africa’s economic future and upcoming election outcomes.

In today's BizNews Daybreak: Global energy markets are on edge as Iranian minelaying in the Strait of Hormuz and a fragile Israel-Lebanon ceasefire extension drive crude oil prices above $105.

While the South African Reserve Bank warns of fuel and food inflation, Sasol’s stock has tripled by securing domestic supply amidst these geopolitical shocks.

In tech, Intel and Tesla shares rallied on massive AI and production forecasts, contrasting with significant job cuts at Meta and Microsoft.

Meanwhile, Alec Hogg reflected at the Rotary Club on the success of the eighth BizNews Conference, emphasizing that "Pretoria will not provide" and urging citizens to drive South Africa's turnaround.

In this Boardroom Talk, BizNews editor Alec Hogg unpacks Tesla’s shift into AI and robotics, Sasol’s resilience amid oil shocks, and Teledyne’s disciplined growth — highlighting how each plays a role in a rational, diversified portfolio.