Kaya 959 Kaya Biz

Real Take‑Home Pay in South Africa Falls to a Two‑Year Low

Loading player...
South Africans are earning less in real terms — and the pressure is mounting. Independent economist Elize Kruger joins Kaya Biz to unpack the latest PayInc Net Salary Index, showing a drop in both nominal and real take‑home pay. We explore the impact of fuel price spikes, rising inflation, job losses, and why households are feeling the pinch despite above‑inflation salary increases in some sectors. A clear, data‑driven look at what’s happening in the labour market — and what it means for 2026.
27 May 4PM English South Africa Business News · Investing

Other recent episodes

Climate Insurance for a New Era: SAIA on Index‑Based Cover

As extreme weather events intensify, South Africa is exploring new ways to protect farmers, SMEs and households. SAIA’s Pamela Ramagaga explains how index insurance — or parametric insurance — could offer fast, affordable payouts when climate thresholds are breached. We discuss the Minister of Agriculture’s proposal for a SASRIA‑type scheme,…
27 May 4PM 9 min

SARB’s Next Move: Anchor Capital’s View on Rates, Inflation & Markets

With the SARB’s MPC decision just hours away, Anchor Capital CIO Nolan Wapenaar breaks down what to expect — and why the Bank remains laser‑focused on inflation expectations and credibility. We explore the “higher‑for‑longer” rate environment, the impact on households and businesses, and how investors should position themselves. Nolan also…
27 May 4PM 16 min

The Future of Airline Overbooking in SA

Aviation analyst Guy Leitch breaks down the National Consumer Tribunal case that could reshape South Africa’s airline industry. We examine the economics of overbooking, the potential fallout for ticket prices, and whether stricter regulation could destabilize a recovering aviation sector.
26 May 4PM 18 min

Q1 2026 Debt Index Shows High Earners Struggling Most

DebtBusters’ Benay Sager unpacks the latest Debt Index, revealing that consumers now need 64% of their income to service debt—and top earners require 101%, starting each month underwater. We explore rising unsecured borrowing, cost‑of‑living strain, and why younger South Africans are entering debt distress earlier than ever.
26 May 4PM 14 min

Investing in the Age of AI: Lessons From Past Disruptions

Allan Gray’s Nshalati Hlungwane explores what history’s great technological revolutions can teach us about today’s AI boom. From railways to telecoms, we unpack why early winners often stumble, how over‑investment cycles form, and why disciplined, long‑term thinking still matters.
26 May 4PM 15 min
All episodes