Editor’s Thoughts.

Just because we were expecting the bad CPI numbers yesterday, didn’t make it easier to hear. To save you from sifting through a whole bunch of articles & posts on the topic today, I’ve summarised them under a Macro’s & Markets column, giving you the highlights (lowlights?). And while the economists may be divided on the MPC holding or raising interest rates as a consequence, the one thing they agree on is that it is now highly unlikely that rates will drop in 2026.

Reality check: South African households are feeling the pressure from all sides right now: rising costs, higher inflation, and mounting financial and mental strain.

On the workplace front, Damian McHugh (Momentum Health) reminds that employee health is no longer a “nice-to-have”. Mental health challenges, stress and disengagement are quietly eroding productivity and profitability, even in companies that think they’re doing “enough” on wellness. His message: proactive, integrated health solutions are now a strategic lever, not a fringe benefit.

Turnberry’s Tony Singleton highlights how even top‑tier medical aid can leave individuals exposed. Rising specialist tariffs, co‑payments and limits mean gap cover is becoming essential to stop a medical event from becoming a financial crisis.

And while we’re dealing with all of this, how annoying is that phone call at “just the wrong moment” trying to sell you something? Sanlam’s Lize de la Harpe unpacks how the new national opt‑out registry for direct marketing doesn’t override POPIA’s strict consent rules. Marketers now need to both respect opt‑outs and still secure valid opt‑in – a double compliance lens many aren’t ready for. (PS I’ve included the Opt Out link at the end of her article – you’re welcome.)

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