Interest rate sarb

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South African news today: Your headlines in five minutes, Friday 7 September

Your last South African news today wrap of the week features everything from Cassper Nyovest to more corruption at Transnet.

Interest rate sarb

Pixabay

Need a quick round-up of the South African news today? We’ve got you. Here’s what is in store for Friday 7 September, as well as some quick updates on the severe weather and your horoscope.

South African news today, Friday 7 September:

Another ratings downgrade on the cards

Depending on where you look, things may get worse before they get better in South Africa. Moody’s have halved their growth forecast for Mzansi, meaning our one remaining investor-grade status is under threat.

Rand to dollar value for Friday 7 September

After falling even further on Thursday morning, our currency lead something of a comeback against the Dollar. Shaving 30 cents off of the deficit, one rand now gets you $15.30. After also dropping below the £20 barrier, the rand managed to claw back its losses and is now worth £19.82.

A diplomatic incident with Brazil could be brewing

A member of South Africa’s Brazilian Embassy has claimed that a JPMD assaulted him back in June. Allegedly, the diplomat was stopped at a roadblock, bundled into the back of a police vehicle, and had blood samples taken without his consent. Get ready, this one could bubble over.

More to come with ANC stimulus package

More details of how the ANC are going to revive the flailing economy have come to light. Deputy President David Mabuza confirmed that the agricultural industry is going to be the biggest beneficiary. Makes sense, after it took a horrific 29% plunge during the second quarter of 2018. [Read more: City Press]

State capture inquiry wrap

There’s one word to describe Thursday’s gathering: Eventful. It was the turn of the Guptas – or at least, their legal team – to argue their case. It turns out the Indian billionaires want to cross-examine witnesses themselves, but they’re also “too scared” to come back to SA. The commission is considering visiting them in Dubai.

Transnet executives suspended for multi-billion rand misdemeanour

Two executives have been suspended by Transnet, as Thamsanqa Jiyane and Lindiwe Mdletshe are accused of bad behaviour regarding the R54 billion “1 064 Locomotives Tender”. Corruption in South Africa? We know, we’re just as shocked as you are. [Read more: Fin24]

#FillUp your legal team

Meanwhile, Cassper Nyovest seems to have lost his head. Social media was LIT after it was revealed the artist – who has headlined successful concerts at the FNB and Orlando Stadiums under the banner of #FillUp – pursued legal action XiTsonga musician Benny Mayengani for his “#FillUpGiyaniStadium” campaign.

Goodbye, Burt Reynolds

There’s some more sad news for Friday, we’re afraid. The beloved Burt Reynolds has passed away, aged 82. The star of Deliverance and Boogie Nights was a Hollywood maverick and an iconic heartthrob of his era.

SA Weather for Friday 7 September

Be careful out there if you live in the Western or Eastern Capes. Flood warnings and heavy rain advisories have been issued by SARS. Some of you living on higher ground might also be feeling the chill, as snow flurries make their way to the area. Here’s what is in store for South Africa on Friday.

Friday’s Horoscopes

Is today your lucky day? Find out here.