Money laundering and the status of politically exposed persons

The Companies Act amendments are enacted but not yet in operation: What you need to know

On 26 July 2024, the Presidency announced that the President has signed the Companies Amendment Act and the Companies Second Amendment Act into law (collectively the Amendment Acts). The Amendment Acts have been awaiting assent since 26 March 2024 when they were approved by the National Council of Provinces and will make important changes to the Companies Act 71 of 2008 (CompaniesAct). 

Categorisation of property by municipalities of developer stock vacant land

In the recent case of City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality and Others v Copperleaf Country Estate (Pty) Ltd and Another (245/2023) ZASCA 69 (3 May 2024), the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) upheld a judgment granted by the Gauteng Division of the High Court, Pretoria, concerning the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality’s (City) supplementary valuation rolls for 2010–2011 and 2013–2017. The cross appeal filed by Copperleaf Country Estate (Pty) Ltd (Copperleaf), challenged the incorrect categorisation of its properties as “ vacant land ” rather than “ business/commercial ”.

Insolvency: The battle between applicant and intervening creditors

At its best, the law of insolvency is a constant battlefield, with competing interests of creditors taking centre stage. No more so than in a situation where there are intervening creditors in a liquidationapplication. 

Expanding the list of zero-rated foodstuffs: Will it really benefit the poor?

In his opening of Parliament address on 18 July 2024, President Cyril Ramaphosa stated that the Government of National Unity will look to expand the basket of essential food items exempt from value-added tax (VAT) and undertake a comprehensive review of administered prices. Subsequently, politicians, members of Parliament, trade unions, the South African Poultry Association and the Red Meat Producers Organisation have all called for the expansion of the list of zero-ratedfoodstuffs. 

Customs and excise

International Arbitration: A comparison of the rules of selected arbitration institutions in Africa and Europe

Traditionally, many disputes involving African parties have been resolved by international arbitration at key arbitral centres in Europe. However, Africa also boasts well-established international arbitration institutions, and contracting parties have the choice of a wide range of arbitral institutions that provide specialised arbitralservices.