Rate cut, a welcome relief for consumers and SMEs
JOHANNESBURG – Following the South African Reserve Bank’s (SARB) decision earlier today to cut its lending rate by 0.25%, FNB confirms that it will reduce its prime lending rate to 9.75% from 10% with effect from Friday 17 January.
FNB CEO Jacques Celliers said, “While not widely expected, today’s rate change is most welcome for both consumers and SMEs. A cut, albeit small, will lift activity in all sectors in the coming months. While the country awaits the National Budget Speech to chart South Africa’s new growth path, we believe that urgent intervention is necessary to restore a more reliable energy supply. The lack of reliable supply does not only weaken collective efforts to grow our economy, it poses a challenge to business stability, especially in the SME sector.”
“As we start a New Year, many consumers and businesses are seeking ways to rein-in costs. We have noted an ongoing and accelerating move into digital and self-service channels where bank charges are more affordable and convenient. At the same time, our customers are actively using the eBucks rewards programme to stretch their budgets. We see these trends building throughout the year as the country continues to grapple with low growth,” Celliers said.
Source: iol.co.za