Bruce Whitfield’s Business Week

The AI hospital is here. Plus: SA’s pothole crisis meets its match 28.05.2026 33mnt

In this episode, Bruce chats with Netcare CEO Richard Friedland about how AI and digitisation are transforming healthcare. With savings now exceeding implementation costs, smartwatches are monitoring patients in real time, and algorithms detect sepsis long before symptoms appear. As Friedland puts it, the clinical AI revolution is already here. News24 Business editor Helena Wasserman unpacks new legislation on pay gap disclosure, Absa group CEO Kenny Fihla’s extraordinary talent raid on Standard Bank, and Pepkor’s bold move into banking with its new PlusB offering. Jaraad Hassim, founder of PatchPal, has a deceptively simple fix for South Africa’s pothole crisis: biodegradable mesh bags of cold-mix asphalt that can be dropped in, overlapped, and driven over. It works; municipalities are testing it. Now, the last remaining hurdle to clear is the law. Lastly, Jean Pierre Verster of Protea Capital Management compares Life Healthcare and Netcare, unpacks Pepkor’s banking ambitions, and weighs in on Pick n Pay. This podcast is sponsored by Capitec. To catch every episode, click the follow and subscribe buttons on News24's Spotify, Apple, and YouTube podcast channels. Editions drop on Thursdays at 17:00.

WeBuyCars backs itself as Chinese brands shake the showroom. Plus: Southern Sun’s best year yet 21.05.2026 30mnt

This week on the podcast, Bruce chats with WeBuyCars CEO Faan van der Walt about how Chinese and Indian vehicles are reshaping South Africa's used-car market, accelerating depreciation for legacy brands, and forcing a new equilibrium in the industry. Despite the headwinds, WeBuyCars is backing itself hard, expanding aggressively, targeting 20% market share, and doing it all without debt. Then, Southern Sun’s Marcel von Aulock unpacks a standout year for the hotel group, but with the G20 tailwind fading and global uncertainty mounting, can the momentum last? Plus, Rand Swiss portfolio manager Gary Booysen offers market insights, and News24 Business editor Helena Wasserman examines the stories shaping the economy. Lastly, well-known human potential expert Nikki Bush joins Bruce to explore the number one way to improve your leadership. This podcast is sponsored by Capitec.To catch every episode, click the follow and subscribe buttons on News24's Spotify, Apple, and YouTube podcast channels. Editions drop on Thursdays at 17:00.

Boxer’s debut JSE bout. PLUS: Thandana’s garage births 60 jobs 14.05.2026 28mnt

In this episode, Bruce chats with Boxer Superstores CEO Marek Masojada about the discount giant's first full-year results since listing on the JSE, with headline earnings up 13.2% to R1.6 billion, and how Boxer keeps growing amid deflation, rising fuel costs and looming food inflation. Helena Wasserman, editor of News24 Business, reports live from NAMPO 2026 in Bothaville, where producer profitability and food security are at the forefront. Peter Armitage, CEO of Anchor Capital, unpacks the global market picture: where value still exists, what the US-China relationship means for investors, and what the JSE has to offer right now. Carla Ashton shares the story of Thandana, the proudly South African lifestyle brand she built from a four-person garage operation in 2010 to a 60-strong team. Lastly, well-known human potential expert Nikki Bush joins Bruce to tackle the Founder's Trap: what happens when you are scaling up but simply cannot let go, and what it costs you and your business when you don’t. This podcast is sponsored by Capitec. To catch every episode, click the follow and subscribe buttons on News24's Spotify, Apple, and YouTube podcast channels. Editions drop on Thursdays at 17:00.

Your long-term oil price prediction. Plus: Donkey Long Tong rises 07.05.2026 40mnt

In this episode, Bruce explores the global fallout from the Iran conflict – and why the risks extend far beyond oil prices. Omnia Group CEO Seelan Gobalsamy explains how disruptions to fertiliser supply chains could place renewed pressure on food prices, farmers and the broader economy, even if a peace deal is reached. Helena Wasserman, editor of News24 Business, unpacks China's tariff removal on thousands of South African exports, Pick n Pay's labour shakeup, and what a potential US-Iran agreement could mean for the rand and local markets. Portfolio manager Meryl Pick shares why elevated oil prices may persist longer than markets expect, while Nic Eve, CEO of Donkey Long Tong, tells the story of how a joke around a braai became one of South Africa's most recognisable outdoor brands. This podcast is sponsored by Capitec. To catch every episode, click the follow and subscribe buttons on News24's Spotify, Apple, and YouTube podcast channels. Editions drop on Thursdays at 17:00.

Can Trump find his oil price offramp? Plus: Khayelitsha Cookies clear for takeoff 30.04.2026 37mnt

In this episode, Bruce unpacks what a doubling oil price means for South African fuel costs, inflation, and the global economy – and why the US midterm elections may be the most powerful force pushing president Donald Trump toward an off-ramp. Peter Armitage, CEO of Anchor Capital, discusses what's really driving oil above $126 a barrel. Adri Williams, founder of Khayelitsha Cookies, reveals how a 100% women-owned biscuit business built in Mfuleni landed a R1.4 million export deal – and got its cookies onto British Airways flights. Helena Wasserman, business editor at News24, provides insights on a divided US Fed and a landmark High Court challenge to the BEE legal sector code. And Graeme Körner, founder of Körner Perspective, looks at why markets are surprisingly calm. This podcast is sponsored by Capitec.To catch every episode, click the follow and subscribe buttons on News24's Spotify, Apple, and YouTube podcast channels. Editions drop on Thursdays at 17:00.

Is Capitec becoming bigger than a bank? Plus: Protein outgrows the gym 23.04.2026 41mnt

In this episode, Bruce speaks to Graham Lee, CEO of Capitec, about another year of standout growth - but more importantly, how the bank is evolving beyond its traditional model as it scales to 26 million clients and reshapes what modern retail banking looks like in South Africa. Bruce also chats to Jake Axelrod, founder of MetaLab, about rethinking protein - not as a gym supplement, but as an everyday pantry staple - and how a focus on taste, accessibility and brand is unlocking a much broader consumer market. The show also features market commentator David Shapiro discussing why global markets continue to rise despite higher oil prices and geopolitical tensions, and what that means for South Africa. Plus News24 Business editor Helena Wasserman unpacks major policy shifts - from stricter BEE procurement rules to visa reforms and relaxed cross-border regulations - and what they signal for business in the country. This podcast is sponsored by Capitec.To catch every episode, click the follow and subscribe buttons on News24's Spotify, Apple, and YouTube podcast channels. Editions drop on Thursdays at 17:00.

Nuts! A new pistachio powerhouse in the Karoo 16.04.2026 35mnt

In this episode, Bruce speaks to Jackie van Niekerk, CEO of Attacq, about a R750 million investment into Waterfall City – what it signals about confidence in South Africa's commercial property sector and the future of mixed-use urban development. Bruce also chats to David Muller, CEO of Karoo Pistachios, about building a potential R3 billion export industry in the Northern Cape, and how patient capital, perseverance and smart partnerships could turn South Africa into a global pistachio powerhouse. The show's markets wrap features Jean Pierre Verster, CEO of Protea Capital Management, unpacking why markets have remained resilient despite geopolitical tensions, whether we're in an AI bubble, and what the early earnings season signals about the global outlook. This podcast is sponsored by Capitec.To catch every episode, click the follow and subscribe buttons on News24’s Spotify, Apple, and YouTube podcast channels. Editions drop on Thursdays at 17:00.

Canal+ channels new SA pay-TV era. Plus: What’s Waxit? 09.04.2026 33mnt

In this episode of Bruce Whitfield's Business Week, Bruce unpacks rising global tensions and their local impact as oil prices surge and South Africa faces sharply higher fuel costs amid an uncertain ceasefire in the Middle East. David Mignot, CEO of Canal+ Africa, joins the show to discuss stabilising MultiChoice post-acquisition and what the future of pay TV looks like as satellite, streaming and changing consumer habits reshape the industry. Michelle Royston, founder and CEO of Waxit, shares how a niche, single-service model has grown into a national franchise, with a new micro-franchise approach that turns employees into business owners. And Meryl Pick, portfolio manager at Old Mutual Investment Group, discusses navigating a world where crises are becoming the norm and why investors may need to rethink traditional strategies. This podcast is sponsored by Capitec.To catch every episode, click the follow and subscribe buttons on News24’s Spotify, Apple and YouTube podcast channels. Editions drop on Thursdays at 5pm.

Can South Africa Outsmart the Global Crisis? 02.04.2026 38mnt

In this episode, Bruce speaks to Alan Knott-Craig of fibertime™, who is taking on one of South Africa’s toughest challenges: bringing fast, affordable fibre internet to townships, connecting millions of homes and opening access to education, jobs and opportunity. Bruce also chats to economist David McWilliams about what South Africa can learn from global success stories and why attracting capital, backing entrepreneurs and putting growth ahead of ideology are critical to unlocking the country’s economic potential. Deon Gouws of Credo joins the show to unpack market volatility, geopolitical uncertainty and how investors are navigating a world shaped by conflict, shifting policy and fragile confidence.

Sasol surges as war drives fuel uncertainty 26.03.2026 35mnt

In this episode, Bruce speaks to Simon Baloyi, CEO of Sasol, as the group benefits from a surge in oil prices driven by escalating tensions in the Middle East. Baloyi explains why the current spike is likely temporary, how Sasol is positioning itself through the cycle, and why the company's role in South Africa's energy security has never been more critical. Willem Kellerman, co-founder of Verify Tech, explains how a small, self-funded South African team used drones and machine learning to survey 150 000 hectares of bush, building one of the most accurate wildlife censuses ever conducted and unlocking new, data-driven insights into conservation. Bruce also chats to Jean-Pierre Verster, founder and CEO of Protea Capital Management, about market volatility, global uncertainty and what it all means for investors navigating a rapidly shifting environment. To catch every episode of Bruce Whitfield’s Business Week, click follow and subscribe on News24’s Spotify, Apple and YouTube podcast channels. New editions drop every Thursday at 17:00. This podcast is sponsored by Capitec. To catch every episode, click the follow and subscribe buttons on News24’s Spotify, Apple, and YouTube podcast channels. Editions drop on Thursdays at 17:00.

What will it take for SA to create 5 million jobs in 10 years? Can China help? 19.03.2026 26mnt

In this episode, we come to you live from News24’s On the Record summit, where one statistic sets the tone: if every unemployed South African stood in a line, it would stretch from Cape Town to Lagos, Nigeria. The focus is on creating 5 million new jobs over the next decade. The conversation draws first on insights from keynote speaker Dr Keyu Jin, who highlights the importance of a capable, coordinated state but emphasises that delivery, implementation, and a pragmatic, pro-growth agenda will ultimately drive job creation. Bruce is then joined by Mpumi Madisa, CEO of Bidvest Group, who argues for a more intentional role for big business – from creating entry-level jobs and opening supply chains to proving that technology and job creation can go hand in hand. Hendrik du Toit, founder and CEO of Ninety One, adds that while global shocks may disrupt markets, South Africa’s progress will depend on structural reform and turning policy into action. This podcast is sponsored by Capitec.To catch every episode, click the follow and subscribe buttons on News24’s Spotify, Apple, and YouTube podcast channels. Editions drop on Thursdays at 17:00.

Sanlam bets big on India, oil market jitters and Virgin Active pumps up the jam 12.03.2026 39mnt

In this episode, Bruce speaks to Paul Hanratty, Group CEO of Sanlam, about the insurer's transformation into South Africa's most valuable insurance company and why India is becoming an increasingly important growth engine for the group. Bruce also chats to Dean Kowarski, Group CEO of Virgin Active, about how the traditional gym is evolving into a broader "social wellness club" experience that combines exercise, recovery, food and community as the global wellness economy expands. The show also features a markets wrap with Meryl Pick, portfolio manager at Old Mutual Investment Group, unpacking the hidden role maritime insurance plays in global trade and how tensions in the Middle East could disrupt oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz and ripple through markets. This podcast is sponsored by Capitec.To catch every episode, click the follow and subscribe buttons on News24's Spotify, Apple, and YouTube podcast channels. Editions drop on Thursdays at 17:00.

How Shoprite is changing the future. Plus: Oryx finds funding on Lions Head 05.03.2026 38mnt

In this episode, Bruce speaks to Pieter Engelbrecht, CEO of Shoprite, about how the group is expanding beyond groceries into adjacent businesses, including financial services, standalone pharmacies, pet retail and general merchandise. Bruce also chats to Samantha Skyring, founder of Oryx Desert Salt, about the realities of raising capital as a founder. After months of pitching and networking, a chance connection on a Lion’s Head walking club helped unlock a new investor to fund the brand’s next phase of global growth. The show also features a markets wrap with Chantal Marx, head of research at FNB Wealth and Investments, unpacking a volatile week for markets amid Middle East tensions, oil prices, and shifting interest rate expectations. This podcast is sponsored by Capitec.To catch every episode, click the follow and subscribe buttons on News24’s Spotify, Apple, and YouTube podcast channels. Editions drop on Thursdays at 17:00.

Why your next car will be Chinese. Plus: The Lab’s big biotech experiment 26.02.2026 35mnt

In this episode, Bruce speaks to Peter Mountford, CEO of Super Group, about navigating a fast-changing vehicle market as Chinese and Indian brands surge in South Africa. Bruce also chats to Jo Farah, founder and CEO of The Lab, about turning a Cape Town sneaker-care start-up into a global biotech fashion-care business. Farah explains how probiotic-based cleaning tech has helped win major international clients, including Nike, New Balance, Dior and Karl Lagerfeld. The episode wraps with Deon Gouws, CIO at Credo, on the market shake-up sparked by the viral “Zetrini” report and the rotation out of big tech. He argues the doom narrative is overdone. This podcast is sponsored by Capitec.To catch every episode, click the follow and subscribe buttons on News24’s Spotify, Apple, and YouTube podcast channels. Editions drop on Thursdays at 17:00.

Gold Fields cashes in. Plus: Ocean Basket’s overseas wins 19.02.2026 43mnt

In this episode, Bruce speaks to Mike Fraser, CEO of Gold Fields, as the gold price surges past $5 000 an ounce and drives a record year for the miner. With profits nearly tripling, boosted by strong bullion prices and production at the new Salares Norte mine in Chile, they unpack what is fuelling gold’s rally, rising mining costs, and how the company is positioning for future growth. Bruce also chats to Grace Harding, CEO of Ocean Basket, about the brand’s global reinvention, from post-COVID restructuring to international expansion and new formats reshaping the South African seafood chain across markets from Cyprus to the Middle East. The episode wraps with a market update from Jean-Pierre Verster, founder and CEO of Protea Capital Management, who breaks down major mining results, commodity trends, and shifting inflation dynamics. Plus, a special tribute to South African futurist and strategist Clem Sunter, with reflections from Chantell Ilbury of Mindofafox. This podcast is sponsored by Capitec.To catch every episode, click the follow and subscribe buttons on News24’s Spotify, Apple, and YouTube podcast channels. Editions drop on Thursdays at 17:00.

SAB defies the global beer slump. PLUS: Bargain Basement retail booms 12.02.2026 35mnt

In this episode, Bruce speaks to Richard (Boris) Rivett-Carnac, the CEO of SAB, about navigating a tougher global beer environment as sales decline worldwide.With Heineken cutting jobs and AB InBev reporting pressure globally, SAB is nonetheless managing to grow volumes in South Africa. They unpack what’s driving resilience locally – from shifting consumer trends and illicit alcohol to excise taxes and the broader economic outlook.Bruce also chats to Alain Soriano, the founder of discount retailer Best Before, about finding opportunity in a fiercely competitive grocery market. From clearance pricing and food waste to brick-and-mortar expansion and delivery partnerships, Soriano explains why demand for discounted essentials is surging across SA.

Rainbow climbs pecking order. Plus: Made in RSA goes global 05.02.2026 39mnt

In this episode, Bruce speaks to Marthinus Stander, CEO of Rainbow Chicken, about the company’s strong performance since being unbundled from RCL Foods and listed as a standalone business in 2024. Bruce also chats to Nick Dreyer, CEO of Made in RSA, about his new platform aimed at helping South African brands reach global markets, create jobs locally and turn homegrown products into international successes. The episode wraps with a market update from Jean Pierre Verster, founder and CEO of Protea Capital Management, who unpacks a busy week of trading updates, consumer pressure, and rising volatility across commodities and global tech stocks. This podcast is sponsored by Capitec.To catch every episode, click the follow and subscribe buttons on News24’s Spotify, Apple, and YouTube podcast channels. Editions drop on Thursdays at 17:00.

Is gold the new bitcoin? Plus: The global cruise comeback 29.01.2026 36mnt

In this episode, Bruce speaks to Azar Jammine, Director and Chief Economist at Econometrix, about the strength of the rand and the surge in precious metal prices, even asking whether gold is becoming “the new bitcoin”. Bruce is then joined by Ross Volk, Managing Director of MSC Cruises South Africa, to discuss the rebound in global travel and what South Africans are booking as confidence returns. Bruce also reflects on the South African Reserve Bank’s decision to keep interest rates unchanged and what that means for confidence and markets. The episode wraps with a market update from Chantal Marx, Head of Research at FNB, on softer Christmas trading, the resilience of South African consumers and heavy investment in AI by big tech. This podcast is sponsored by Capitec. To catch every episode, click the follow and subscribe buttons on News24’s Spotify, Apple, and YouTube podcast channels. Editions drop on Thursdays at 17:00.

Why you should ignore Trump. Plus: Old School brings EPL to SA 22.01.2026 37mnt

In this episode, Bruce speaks to Zak Calisto, founder and CEO of Karooooo, about the group’s strong quarterly results, South Africa’s role as its growth engine, and how a Singapore base is driving global expansion across Asia, Europe and beyond. He is then joined by Daneel Steinmann, CEO of Old School, to unpack the brand’s five-year retail partnership with Liverpool FC, why South Africa is one of the club’s biggest markets, and how African passion for the English Premier League is shaping future expansion. The episode wraps with Deon Gouws, Chief Investment Officer at Credo Group in the UK, who weighs in on investing in a world of heightened geopolitics, whether the “sell America” narrative holds, and if the AI boom is really a bubble. This podcast is sponsored by Capitec. To catch every episode, click the follow and subscribe buttons on News24’s Spotify, Apple, and YouTube podcast channels. Editions drop on Thursdays at 17:00.

The V&A’s new era. Plus: Govt’s digital reboot 15.01.2026 34mnt

In this episode, Bruce speaks to Graham Wood, the newly appointed CEO of the V&A Waterfront, about taking the helm of one of Africa’s most iconic mixed-use precincts — and what the next phase of growth, investment and innovation looks like for a destination that attracts more than 25 million visitors a year.Bruce also chats to Melvyn Lubega, recently appointed to lead the Presidency’s Digital Services Unit, about why he chose to take on the challenge of working inside government and how building digital public infrastructure – from digital ID and payments to shared data systems – can transform how millions of South Africans access services and drive impact at national scale.The show also features a markets wrap with Meryl Pick, Portfolio Manager at Old Mutual Investment Group, unpacking key trends in precious metals and what lies ahead for South Africa’s resource sector and “SA Inc” as we look towards 2026.