Old Mutual reported a 30% decline in adjusted headline earnings to R2.95 billion for the six months ended June, saying fallout from the US-Iran war curbed investments. The figures, published by Moneyweb, indicate profit pressure linked to the geopolitical shock and its effect on investment markets. The report frames the earnings drop as a consequence of reduced investment activity during the period, rather than providing additional operational detail.

South African banking group FirstRand reported a 5% decline in profit after setting aside a R17.64 billion provision that curbed its earnings gains, according to Moneyweb. Despite the profit drop, the bank declared a final dividend of R2.80 per share for shareholders. The results reflect the impact of the substantial provision on the group's overall financial performance for the reporting period.

Gold prices are facing challenges due to rising interest rates, as analyzed in the latest updates from Growthpoint, Nedbank, and Vunani's return to profitability. The impact of these economic factors on the gold market is significant, influencing investor behavior and market dynamics.

South African insurer Outsurance has declared a special dividend following a strong financial year, according to TimesLIVE. The company's property and casualty operations drove premium growth over the period, even as it absorbed higher claims costs. The payout reflects the insurer's solid performance despite the elevated claims environment, with the short-term insurance business underpinning the improved results reported for the year.

Kenya's insurance industry is grappling with price undercutting even as companies face pressure to deliver faster claims, better service and stronger customer trust. Old Mutual Holdings CEO Arthur Oginga argues that lower prices are not inherently harmful if they result from genuine efficiency, but warns that unsustainable pricing driven by competition poses problems. According to TechTrends KE, the debate highlights the difficult economics behind Kenya's insurance market and the tension between affordability and long-term sector stability.

South African power utility Eskom faces scrutiny over the sustainability of its profitability as municipal debt owed to it climbs to nearly R120 billion while electricity sales volumes decline by 6.2%. According to The Citizen Business, the figures raise questions about whether the utility's financial gains are being achieved at the expense of struggling municipalities and consumers, amid ongoing concerns about affordability and declining demand across the country.