Nicola Mawson

Freelance Journalist

What rising debt means for South Africa’s rental market

Nicola Mawson|Published

According to Africaninvestor, private rental data indicates that tenant demand tends to peak in January and February, driven by students starting university, new ...

The school placement scramble parents can’t ignore

Nicola Mawson|Published

As almost 23,000 South African children still await school places, parents scramble for solutions as the 2026 term fast approaches.

Relief for South African households as rate cuts move closer

Nicola Mawson|Updated

Lower interest rates and a stronger rand could ease inflation, reduce borrowing costs, and support modest economic growth in 2026.

Januworry: Could unnecessary bank fees be wasting your money?

Nicola Mawson|Published

Are you really getting your money’s worth? Compare fees and perks across bank accounts to find real value.

Januworry is here: How to avoid debt traps

Nicola Mawson|Published

With Januworry upon us, the Credit Association of South Africa urges consumers to make informed credit choices. Discover essential tips to navigate financial pressures ...

How festive risks could leave you uninsured

Nicola Mawson|Published

Discover how to safeguard your insurance claims this festive season with essential tips on avoiding common pitfalls, from drinking and driving to leaving valuables ...

Residents pay the price for a restaurant in their estate

Nicola Mawson|Published

Johannesburg residents in two private estates will continue to face steep business electricity rates—up to 75% higher than domestic tariffs—after the Supreme Court ...

Defective used vehicle, big consequences: WesBank ordered to refund buyer in landmark ruling

Nicola Mawson|Published

In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court of Appeal orders WesBank to refund R170,023 for a defective used Ford Ranger, setting a precedent for consumer rights and ...

How Trump's tariffs pinched South African SMEs ahead of key US court ruling

Nicola Mawson|Published

With the US Supreme Court set to rule on President Trump's tariffs, South African SMEs are already grappling with significant losses.

Here’s what South Africans expect for inflation – and why it matters

Nicola Mawson|Updated

Where do South Africans think inflation will land up?

Avoid a financial hangover this festive season

Nicola Mawson|Published

With festive spending on the rise, South Africans face new financial pressures. This article explores strategies to manage holiday budgets, avoid overspending, and ...

Why Banxso's R2bn fine broke records

Nicola Mawson|Published

How the FSCA's record R2 billion fine against Banxso signals a crackdown on financial misconduct.

Here's how much South Africans are paying to rent a home

Nicola Mawson|Published

As rental costs in South Africa surge ahead of inflation, an alarming number of tenants are falling behind on payments, with lower-income households facing the greatest ...

There’s a snake on my stoep

Nicola Mawson|Published

Are you aware of what you must disclose when selling your home in South Africa? From structural issues to wildlife encounters, find out what could impact your buyer's ...

Financial strategies for escaping an abusive relationship

Nicola Mawson|Published

As we mark 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, new data from Statistics South Africa reveals 60,000 sexual offence incidents involving 44,000 victims ...

Are you a criminal's Christmas present?

Nicola Mawson|Published

With the festive season approaching, are you prepared to protect yourself from the surge in scams?

South Africa's R2.6 trillion debt mountain grows but defaults finally ease

Nicola Mawson|Published

South Africans are grappling with a staggering R2.6 trillion debt load, averaging R43,000 per person. However, recent trends show households are managing their debts ...

Black Friday bonanza: South Africans shift sharply toward digital deals and smarter buying

Nicola Mawson|Published

With over R2 billion spent during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, South African consumers are redefining their shopping habits.

Promoting financial inclusion for empowerment in South Africa

Nicola Mawson|Published

Discover how financial inclusion can transform the lives of South Africans, empowering individuals and communities to thrive economically and socially

Black Friday: What consumption driven trend will SA import next?

Nicola Mawson|Published

Discover how South Africa is adapting to global shopping trends like Green Wednesday and Black Friday, and what this means for local consumers in a rapidly evolving ...

Black Friday madness: South Africans swipe over R500m by noon

Nicola Mawson|Published

South Africans are leading the charge in Black Friday spending, with over R500 million swiped by noon, according to Ecentric Payment Systems and Peach Payments.

Black Friday: A spending spree for shoppers and criminals alike

Nicola Mawson|Published

With housebreaking incidents soaring by 48% in December, South Africans face a dual threat this festive season: shopping for bargains and protecting their homes ...

Reserve Bank cuts interest rates by 0.25% as economic prospects improve

Nicola Mawson|Published

The South African Reserve Bank has cut interest rates by 0.25%, bringing the prime rate down to 10.25%. This article examines how this will benefit indebted households, ...

You'll never guess which SA city has become new favourite with first-time homeowners

Nicola Mawson|Published

Despite its reputation for affordability, a house in Bloemfontein is selling for millions. Discover more about this property market.

Debt relief for the holidays: Interest rate drop leaves more rands in your Christmas stocking

Nicola Mawson|Published

South Africans with debt can breathe a sigh of relief as interest rates drop by 0.25 percentage points. How will this change affect your monthly repayments?