Digital Street

For many young South Africans, managing money has never been more complicated. Between rising living costs, limited job opportunities and a constant stream of online content promising fast money, it’s not surprising that shortcuts can sometimes look appealing. Open almost any social media platform and you’ll find stories of trading wins, betting slips, side hustles, luxury lifestyles, and people claiming to have found the secret to making money quickly.

The global technology industry witnessed a historic moment this week as SpaceX reportedly surged beyond a staggering $2 trillion valuation following its highly anticipated Nasdaq debut. The milestone places Elon Musk’s aerospace giant among the most valuable companies in history and signals growing investor confidence in the future of commercial space exploration, satellite communications, artificial intelligence and next-generation technology infrastructure.

Apps have completely changed how people engage online. But there are certain ones that have had a bigger impact than others. Trading apps have changed the way South Africans access financial markets, making it possible to trade from almost anywhere. With so many available, performance, ease of use and risk management features are often key factors when comparing options. Here are the top elements that you need to consider.

Samsung recently signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) and officially launched the Samsung Innovation Campus (SIC) programme at the Durban University of Technology; in an effort to establish a strategic partnership that is able to equip the next generation with future-ready technology skills to enhance student employability.

Xiaomi today officially announces the launch of the all-new Xiaomi 17T in South Africa, a smartphone designed for creators, storytellers, and users who demand flagship-level photography, performance, and battery life in one premium device. Co-engineered with Leica and introduced as “The Telephoto Master,” Xiaomi 17T pushes mobile photography to a new level by combining professional-grade imaging capabilities with cutting-edge Xiaomi innovation.

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. has announced the local availability of the Galaxy S26 series and the Galaxy Buds4 series. As Samsung’s third generation of AI (artificial intelligence) phones, the Galaxy S26 Ultra, Galaxy S26+ and Galaxy S26 deliver the most intuitive and proactive Galaxy AI1 experiences yet, helping users accomplish more with fewer steps.

Truecaller could change its app in South Africa if the company is required to adjust its service to comply with local privacy and consumer-protection expectations. That possibility is now more than theoretical. In comments published this week, Truecaller’s South Africa market development director, Mmathebe Zvobwo, said the company is cooperating with the Information Regulator and is “100% open” to making changes that make sense under POPIA.

FNB has launched a market first home loan solution designed to help young South Africans enter the property market earlier by easing the financial pressures associated with the early years of homeownership.

The stories that defined Showmax are not disappearing. Instead, they are finding a new home on DStv Stream, where a dedicated Showmax section inside the app brings together many of Showmax’s most acclaimed originals and fan favourites alongside the full live streaming experience available on DStv’s standalone streaming service. Showmax Originals and more will be available on DStv Compact and DStv Premium packages exclusively on DStv Stream.

Woolworths’ decision to acquire in2food is one of the more significant retail and supply-chain moves in South Africa this year, because it goes well beyond a routine corporate transaction. The retailer said it intends to buy 100% of privately owned prepared-foods manufacturer in2food from its founders, Old Mutual Private Equity and other exiting shareholders.