Is SME finance in South Africa expensive?
This was a subject which recently came up in a discussion with an industry stakeholder and is worth unpacking in some detail. In this blog post, we explain why the answer to the question is “Yes” … but also … “it’s complicated” In short, SME finance is expensive The reality is that there are some […]
The Middle East and Month-End: A Working Capital Crunch
For most South African entrepreneurs, the final week of the month is always a high-stakes balancing act. But as we approach the end of March 2026, the variables have changed. The recent escalations in the Middle East have moved from the news cycle directly into the local ledger, creating a “perfect storm” for cash flow […]
Working Capital Trends and News – March 2026 | South Africa
As we cross the first-quarter threshold of 2026, the South African economic narrative is once again being tested by external variables. Recent escalations in the Middle East have introduced a familiar, though unwelcome, layer of short-term volatility to our local markets. With the Strait of Hormuz facing renewed pressure, we are seeing the immediate “cost-push” […]
Funding Entrepreneurs in South Africa’s “Missing Middle”
The recent proposed amendments to the B-BBEE legislation have done more than just stir regulatory debate; they have acted as a long-overdue catalyst for a deeper conversation regarding the South African funding landscape. At the heart of this discussion is a frustrating paradox: despite billions of Rands in mandated Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) spend, […]
The cost of bad debt on SA SMEs and how it hurts your working capital
One of the most critical — and often overlooked — components of managing your working capital is your ability to manage your debtors. For SMEs and growth businesses, revenue means very little until it converts into cash. You can have a strong order book, healthy margins on paper, and a growing client base — but […]
February – a more upbeat time for entrepreneurs seeking working capital
Our team unpacks key trends in February 2026 for South African entrepreneurs looking to access working capital for their businesses
How can I add more women-owned businesses to my Preferential Procurement?
Have your 2026 Preferential Procurement strategies been thrown into disarray by the recent proposed amendments to the B-BBEE codes announced by Minister Parks Tau from the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition? The Minister has recently circulated for comment proposed amendments which at first glance are primarily focused on the introduction of the “Transformation Fund” […]
Working Capital Trends – January 2026
2026 has kicked off on the front foot with a positive data point – sentiment among civil contractors, as measured by the FNB/BER Civil Confidence Index rose to a joint 11-year high in 2025Q4. The improvement in the business mood was supported by significantly better readings for activity growth and overall profitability. With business activity on […]
Can land be used as collateral when applying for DTIC incentives?
For many South African entrepreneurs, access to funding remains one of the biggest barriers to growth. Whether you are operating in manufacturing, agro-processing, or another priority sector, incentives from the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) – such as the Black Industrialist Scheme (BIS) or the Agro-Processing Support Scheme – can play a meaningful […]
Working Capital Trends – December 2025
This monthly blog from Decusatio Working Capital Solutions tracks the key trends shaping how South Africa’s growth businesses access funding and raise capital. Our focus is on practical insights around working capital solutions, strategic fundraising and the funding structures available to entrepreneurs, founders and management teams looking to scale their businesses sustainably. As 2025 comes to an end, […]