South African banking sector growth may face headwinds

Significance

This level was briefly reached in 2017, as well as during the 2008-09 global financial crisis. Interest rates are expected to rise further until inflation moves back within SARB’s 3-6% target range.

Impacts

• The current political crisis facing President Cyril Ramaphosa could delay legislation aimed at addressing FATF concerns.
• The rapid investment required to expand private electricity generation will depend on support from the banking sector.
• Consumers may become beneficiaries of more competitive credit offerings as banks make more credit available.
• The profitability of the large incumbent banks might be challenged as new entrants begin to make their presence felt.