Sunday Tribune 2025-04-13

With almost a decade in the insurance industry, Junior Mlondobuzi, founded his company Entresure; a pioneering digital platform dedicated to transforming how insurance is afforded and accessed by small businesses in South Africa. Often hailed as the lifeline of the economy, Mlondobuzi told Business Report that he spotted a gap in the small and medium enterprises (SME) sector. “I started Entresure because I saw a real gap, not just in the market, but in how small businesses are treated in this space. Too many entrepreneurs are running their businesses without insurance. Not because they don’t care but because the system was never built with them in mind,” Mlondobuzi said. He said the current system in the country is not tailored for small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs). “It’s complicated, expensive,…

This past week global markets were sent through an economic whirlwind as US President Donald Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ tariff chokehold engulfed the world. Following Trump’s sweeping announcement of wide-spread tariffs for many nations, that was set to kick off on Wednesday, the White House announced last Monday that 50 countries approached the US to negotiate for better tariff deals. As trade officials scrambled, China stood fast in a stance opposing Trump’s announcements, and on Wednesday said it would impose its own tariff against US goods, setting it at 84%. Later in the day, in a shocking announcement, Trump said that 75 countries had stepped forward with intentions of negotiating for better tariff deals, and placed a three-month pause on the tariffs he announced the previous week, but hit back at…

Central banks are expected to lower cash rates gradually in 2025. With inflationary pressures moderating and economic challenges persisting, monetary authorities are expected to prioritise gradual rate cuts as we move through the remainder of the year. This deliberate pace reflects a balance between stimulating economic growth and avoiding financial instability. For example, the Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank may follow similar trajectories, ensuring financial markets remain stable while supporting growth. Emerging markets could also adopt a more measured approach, leveraging lower rates to foster domestic investment without risking currency depreciation. Historical precedents, such as the response to the 2008 financial crisis, underline the importance of cautious monetary easing in sustaining long-term recovery. Bonds to deliver real yields As inflation retreats, bonds are positioned to deliver attractive real…

In an age where screens shine brightly with fresh content, Sinemivuyo Mpulu, a charismatic voice-over artist, is capturing audiences’ hearts with his innovative series, TikTok Billing. This spirited homage to the classic South African television gem, Top Billing, is igniting a wave of enthusiasm among fans and newcomers alike, merging nostalgia with modernity in a way that echoes the show’s original appeal. For those who reminisce about golden evenings spent on SABC 3, Top Billing was far more than just a lifestyle showcase. It offered a weekly banquet of wealth, glamour, and the high life, immersing viewers in opulent homes, swanky soirées, and the crème de la crème of both South African and international luxury. Now, Mpulu is revitalising that experience for the TikTok generation. In a recent conversation with…

SABC 1 and Morula Pictures welcome Thuli Pholongolo back to Generations: The Legacy as she reprises the role of Namhla Diale. In an exciting turn of events for fans of the cherished soapie, her much-anticipated comeback has already ignited a wave of enthusiasm across social media, with them eagerly anticipating the next chapter in her character’s journey. Diale, known for her intellect, ambition, and unwavering determination, quickly became a fan favourite during her previous tenure. While the specifics of her return remain under wraps, viewers can expect unexpected twists and surprising developments that will keep them on the edge of their seats. What we do know is that when Namhla returns, she is no longer the gawky, geeky, shy and awkward teenager from before. Her time living and working overseas…

Any show that has the Shondaland stamp gets viewers excited. Over the years, Shonda Rhimes has proven her Midas touch with Grey’s Anatomy, Private Practice, The Fixer, Station 19, and, of course, Bridgerton, among other offerings. She significantly boosted the careers of strong female leads like Kerry Washington and Viola Davis. Honestly, she truly has a knack for casting actors against type and showcasing them in unexpected roles. We’ve seen this play out with Mireille Enos in The Catch, and now with Uzo Aduba (real name Uzoamaka Nwanneka “Uzo” Aduba) in the mystery comedy drama, The Residence. In the latter eight-part offering, which is based on Kate Andersen Brower’s novel The Residence: Inside the Private World of the White House, Aduba is cast as Cordelia Cupp, a consultant with the…