According to The South African Biz, the South African Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) decreased in June, with a second quarter average of 50.2, which is an improvement over the first quarter average of 48.3.

In the second quarter of 2026, South African household finances showed signs of easing, although the ratio of household debt to nominal disposable income increased to 62.2% in the first quarter from 61.8% in the previous quarter, according to The South African Biz.

A survey indicates that nearly half of South Africans are concerned about their ability to cope with another interest rate hike, with the next announcement scheduled for 23 July, according to The Citizen Business.

South Africa has improved its position by 10 places in the World Competitiveness Ranking, with the highest score being for prices, ranked seventh. This improvement reflects the South African Reserve Bank's efforts to achieve a 3% inflation target, according to The South African Biz.

South African households are experiencing a two-year high in inflation, reaching 4.5%. This increase in prices is attributed to the ongoing US-Israeli conflict with Iran, which is impacting the economy.

According to The South African Biz, the Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) in South Africa decreased to -19 in the second quarter of 2026, down from -7 in the first quarter, indicating a negative sentiment among wealthy South Africans.