Nicola Mawson

Freelance Journalist

Here's what South Africa's top CEOs are earning

Nicola Mawson|Published

Discover the highest-paid CEOs in South Africa for 2025, exploring their impressive compensation packages and the factors driving their earnings.

US weakness is Rand's strength as it breaches R17

Nicola Mawson|Published

The rand dips below R17 to the dollar, influenced by US dollar weakness and upcoming Federal Reserve decisions. What does this mean for South African travellers ...

As the Ackermans cash out, who’s quietly buying up Pick n Pay shares?

Nicola Mawson|Published

Ackerman Family Sells Down Pick n Pay Stake — But the Real Surprise Is Who’s Stepping In

South Africa's R2.6 trillion debt mountain grows but defaults finally ease

Nicola Mawson|Published

South Africans are grappling with a staggering R2.6 trillion debt load, averaging R43,000 per person. However, recent trends show households are managing their debts ...

South Africa's growth: A step forward, but not enough for job creation

Nicola Mawson|Published

Despite a surprising uptick in South Africa's economic growth, the 0.5% GDP figure raises concerns about the country's ability to create jobs.

Black Friday spending trends: R1 million deal sets record

Nicola Mawson|Updated

Black Friday spending surged over the weekend, with South Africans still swiping cards for Cyber Monday. Notably, a single deal exceeding R1 million set a new record. ...

South Africa looks to shift infrastructure risk to private sector partners

Nicola Mawson|Published

As Africa grapples with a staggering R3 trillion infrastructure investment shortfall, government is exploring innovative funding solutions to stimulate economic ...

Visa chaos blamed for billions lost to South Africa

Nicola Mawson|Published

Experts have warned that South Africa risks a multiplier effect on export volumes to the US, given that the 30% tariff is higher than that of rival exporters, making ...

Reserve Bank cuts interest rates by 0.25% as economic prospects improve

Nicola Mawson|Published

The South African Reserve Bank has cut interest rates by 0.25%, bringing the prime rate down to 10.25%. This article examines how this will benefit indebted households, ...

You'll never guess which SA city has become new favourite with first-time homeowners

Nicola Mawson|Published

Despite its reputation for affordability, a house in Bloemfontein is selling for millions. Discover more about this property market.

Ackerman family offloads big chunk of Pick n Pay shares

Nicola Mawson|Updated

As the Ackermans sell down their stake in Pick n Pay, what does this mean for the future of the retailer and its leadership?

Late paperwork costs Kimberley man his fight to reverse liquidation

Nicola Mawson|Published

There are severe consequences of missed deadlines and poor financial management.

How South Africans are spending 70% of their income on debt repayments

Nicola Mawson|Published

Discover how South Africans are grappling with rising living costs and debt, with 70 cents of every rand earned going towards servicing debt.

Will G20 be an economic catalyst for South Africa?

Nicola Mawson|Published

To truly harness the G20 summit's potential, South Africa must tackle its infrastructure challenges head-on.

S&P upgrades South Africa's credit rating after two decades

Nicola Mawson|Published

S&P Global Ratings has upgraded South Africa's credit rating for the first time in nearly 20 years, signalling improved economic prospects and a step towards investment ...

How South Africa's mini budget offers crucial relief for households

Nicola Mawson|Published

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana's Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement brings promising news for South African households, with potential tax relief and infrastructure ...

Strong rand and cheap oil give inflation a breather

Nicola Mawson|Published

Discover how recent fuel price drops could provide much-needed relief for South African households grappling with rising costs.

AARTO rollout delayed again as transport department cites readiness concerns

Nicola Mawson|Published

The implementation of the controversial AARTO Act has been delayed until July, raising questions about its readiness.

Why South African investors are choosing luxury items over equities

Nicola Mawson|Published

Discover how South African investors are increasingly prioritising tangible luxury items like watches and handbags over traditional equities, as they adopt a more ...

South Africans brace for budget that could change the cost of living

Nicola Mawson|Published

With South Africans grappling with soaring food and fuel prices, all eyes are on Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana as he prepares to unveil the Medium-Term Budget ...

South Africa delisted from FATF greylist: What it means for your bank transactions

Nicola Mawson|Published

South Africa' s recent removal from the greylist promises to lower banking costs for citizens, signalling a commitment to improved financial practices and attracting ...

SANRAL faces R29 billion loss due to unpaid e-tolls

Nicola Mawson|Published

SANRAL reports a staggering R29 billion loss on unpaid e-tolls, raising concerns over financial accountability and irregular spending.

Pick n Pay reports on consumer strain amid rising food prices

Nicola Mawson|Published

As Pick n Pay keeps internal inflation low, consumers face ongoing financial strain amid rising food prices.

Gold rush rewards: Krugerrand investors strike it rich after 30 years

Nicola Mawson|Published

Discover how Krugerrands have transformed into a remarkable investment over the past 30 years.

The braai’s burning your budget: Meat prices nearly double in a decade

Nicola Mawson|Published

Meat prices have risen well above inflation, leaving consumers paying sharply more for their favourite cuts.