Observer Money

Chamwe Kaira Vehicle sales opened the fourth quarter on a soft note, with new vehicle sales declining for the seventh straight month in October. Sales fell to 1 267 units, a 2.8% drop from the 1 303 units recorded in September.  This followed a 3.3% rebound in September. Despite the monthly dip, the broader trend is positive. October sales were 10.7% higher year-on-year, extending the recovery that began after the 9% annual drop recorded in March. The year 2025 continues to outperform 2024. Sales have fallen below the 1 000-unit mark only once this year, with January recording 966 units.…

Staff Writer Namibia’s vehicle market is set to face new cost pressures as proposed changes to the road funding model gain momentum.  The Road Fund Administration (RFA) has indicated that the fuel levy needs to rise to N$4.46 per litre to close the growing gap in funding for road maintenance. This would be an increase of N$2.06 per litre. Simonis Storm said the adjustment comes as ownership costs remain high due to expensive fuel, rising insurance prices, and increased vehicle maintenance costs. The firm said the levy increase would have a clear impact on the total cost of vehicle ownership.…

Staff Writer Namibia is marking International Fraud Awareness Week, and Standard Bank Namibia is urging the public to take active steps to protect themselves from scams.  Under the theme “Stop. Check. Protect.” the bank is promoting a culture of awareness to help safeguard consumers, businesses and the wider economy. Fraud has become a daily risk. Phishing emails, identity theft and cybercrime continue to grow, as fraudsters exploit technology and human error. The impact extends beyond money, affecting emotional wellbeing and trust in financial institutions. “Fraud is not just about stolen money; it’s about stolen peace of mind,” said Roxzaan Witbooi,…

Staff Writer Woolworths Holdings Limited has reported a strong start to its financial year, showing resilience across all business segments in South Africa and Australia. For the 19 weeks ending 9 November 2025, the group recorded turnover and concession sales growth of 6.2% and 6.8% on a constant currency basis, both well above inflation. The company progressed with its share buyback programme, repurchasing 6.9 million shares since September at an average price of N$51.22. Woolworths South Africa delivered solid results with turnover and concession sales up 7.4%. The food division continued to lead performance, posting comparable store growth of 6%…

Staff Writer Truworths International Limited has reported steady performance for the first 18 weeks of its 2026 financial year, with total retail sales holding at R7.2 billion despite mixed results across its African and UK operations. The group operates 33 stores outside South Africa, including 12 in Namibia, 12 in Botswana, five in Eswatini, two in Zambia and two in Lesotho. The retailer continues to trade on stock exchanges in South Africa, Namibia, Australia and the United Kingdom. Office UK delivered solid growth with a 6% rise in sales in sterling terms. Strong online activity and partnerships with leading global…

Staff Writer The United States, Switzerland and Liechtenstein have announced plans to negotiate a major economic pact aimed at reshaping trade and investment ties, boosting job creation and strengthening supply chain security.  The White House said the three countries will work under a new “Framework for an Agreement on Fair, Balanced, and Reciprocal Trade”, with the goal of concluding negotiations by the first quarter of 2026. If completed, the agreement will create a modern trading relationship that expands market access, promotes investment and strengthens cooperation in sectors such as manufacturing and digital services. Switzerland and Liechtenstein expressed strong intentions to…

Mignon du Preez  Black Friday is almost here, and the excitement is everywhere. Stores are shouting about massive discounts, online deals are popping up on your feed, and everyone seems ready to grab something “before it’s gone”.  But here’s the truth: a bargain isn’t a bargain if it leaves you broke or stressed about money. In Namibia, where the cost of living is climbing and festive season expenses are just around the corner, smart spending matters more than ever. Black Friday can be a great opportunity to save, but only if you shop with a plan. Start with this simple…

Chamwe Kaira  Namibia Asset Management (NAM) reported growth in key financial indicators for the year ended 30 September 2025, reflecting steady performance in a difficult economic period. Operating profit increased to N$16.1 million from N$13.7 million the previous year.  Fund management earnings rose to N$10.7 million, compared to N$9.4 million in 2024.  Total comprehensive income reached N$12.4 million. Shareholders also saw stronger returns. Basic and headline earnings per share increased to 7.89 cents from 6.99 cents in 2024.  Net asset value per share improved to 21.48 cents. NAM’s assets under management grew by 9.9% to N$22.2 billion.  The company said…

Chamwe Kaira  Santam Limited reported strong results for the nine months ending 30 September, delivering growth across key areas and beating its long-term targets. The company recorded double-digit growth in gross written and net earned premiums. Its underwriting margin stayed above the targeted 5 to 10% range, and its annualised return on capital exceeded 30%. Net income growth remained in line with the first half of the year. On 7 April 2025, Allianz Europe BV acquired 8.59% in SanlamAllianz.  This resulted in a final shareholding split of 51% for Sanlam and 49% for Allianz. Sanlam Life Namibia was sold to…