The South African Reserve Bank has raised its policy interest rate by 25 basis points to 7.25%, announcing the decision on Wednesday, 23 September 2026.

Reserve Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago said global shocks are hurting the economy. The rate increase affects the cost of borrowing across the financial system and is closely watched by companies assessing credit costs, investment plans and operating expenses.

For businesses, changes in the policy rate can influence commercial lending rates, working-capital finance and the cost of funding expansion. The impact on individual firms will vary depending on their debt levels, financing arrangements and exposure to interest-rate changes.

The decision comes as businesses and consumers monitor inflation and the broader economic outlook. Further detail on the Monetary Policy Committee’s assessment can be checked in the Reserve Bank’s full statement.