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| Africa’s daily intelligence on business, policy and power—what changed, what it means and what to watch next. | ||
| OPENING SIGNAL | ||
| South Africa's MTN approves $375M share buyback after profit rise |
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MTN Group's board approved a 6 billion rand ($375 million) share buyback program as Africa's largest telecom operator reported a 21.3% rise in half-year adjusted headline earnings per share to 793 cents.
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| READ THE FULL STORY → |
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ENERGY · WEST AFRICA
China is looking to Africa for more oil
Chinese refiner Sinopec plans to increase crude sourcing from Africa, Brazil and other regions as it looks to reduce its exposure to supply disruptions linked to the Middle East.
For African producers, the shift could create additional demand as major buyers reassess where they source energy.
MARKETS · SOUTH AFRICA
The rand is holding near a multi-month high
South Africa's rand began the week near its strongest level since the start of the Iran war, supported by a weaker dollar, higher gold prices and broader strength in emerging-market currencies.
AGRICULTURE · ZIMBABWE
Zimbabwe brings back its maize import ban
Zimbabwe has reintroduced a ban on maize imports following a strong harvest, with the government saying domestic production is now sufficient to supply local millers.
The next test is whether local supply can remain strong enough to keep food prices stable.
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AUG 24, 2026 · FIGURES ARE THE LATEST MARKET SNAPSHOTS AVAILABLE AT PRODUCTION TIME.
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GLOBAL MARKETS
The world is waiting for Washington's next move on Iran
Global shares and oil prices slipped as investors waited for details of new U.S. sanctions targeting Iran. Oil remained elevated despite the pullback, while uncertainty over supply routes through the Middle East continued to hang over markets.
For African economies, the immediate drop in oil prices may offer some relief to fuel importers. But if supply disruptions deepen or sanctions trigger further retaliation, higher fuel costs, inflation pressure and stronger demand for foreign currency could quickly return.
THE AFRICA ANGLE: For fuel-importing African economies, the bigger risk is not today's oil price. It is how quickly the geopolitical situation could change it.
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EXECUTIVE TRIVIA HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW AFRICAN BUSINESS? One quick question on African business, economics, policy or corporate history. Choose an answer below and see immediately if you are right. |
A company spends $1 billion buying back its own shares. What is the most direct effect of the buyback?
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