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Bank Zero – All you need to know

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Bank Zero

Following multiple delays and years of controlled testing, South Africa’s newest digital bank, Bank Zero, officially launched to the public on Tuesday. Access to the app will be “throttled” initially, the bank said, to ensure that staff responsible for verifying FICA documents can keep up with the volumes.

To sign up, new clients will have to join the bank’s waiting list. Requests to join will be released in batches of a few thousand at a time. Bank Zero was announced in January 2018 after it was evaluated by the South African Reserve Bank and granted a provisional mutual bank licence. The app-driven bank is the brainchild of tech entrepreneur Michael Jordaan and banking innovator Yatin Narsai, two figures well known for spearheading FNB’s digital banking transformation.

Its core value proposition was offering a bank account with no monthly subscription fee and lower transaction costs than conventional banking accounts. Bank Zero does not rely on the traditional banking structures of established banks like head offices, branches, and numerous employees.

Instead, it runs entirely on an app, intending to put digital interaction and communication front and centre. To access cash, customers can use any ATM or cash out at major local retailers. Initially, Jordaan said Bank Zero would “hopefully” launch in late 2018.

In October 2018, the bank announced it had integrated with SARB’s national payments system, allowing it to begin alpha testing with a small team validating its end-to-end live systems and processes.

Limited testing among its staff began in March 2019, with a soft launch date to the public planned for the second half of 2019.

This date was revised to 2020, with Narsai, the bank’s CEO, stating that the Bank Zero team did not want the additional complexity of a soft launch to interfere with the focus on the wider launch of the bank.

In November 2019, Bank Zero announced its patented debit card had gone live to undergo rigorous security and system trials through simulated card attacks and card fraud detection tests. In May 2020, Jordaan told MyBroadband that Bank Zero was planning to launch a controlled beta to the public in the second half of 2020, which went live in September.

With its official launch coming more than three and a half years after its announcement, Bank Zero is now facing tough competition from banks who have responded with similar low-cost products.
For example, TymeBank, which launched around a year after Bank Zero got its mutual banking licence, has its EveryDay Account with no monthly fees, account initiation fees, card issuing fees, or card usage fees.

It also provides a savings tool that lets users create 10 saving accounts and earn up to 7% interest.

FNB and Nedbank also offer zero-monthly fee accounts with their respective Easy Zero and Pay-as-you-use products.

The former allows customers to open a bank account in a few minutes via a USSD shortcode. Capitec also lets customers create a bank account with a virtual credit card using only its app.

In addition, the other two big banks, Absa and Standard Bank, also offer pay-as-you-use type accounts for less than R5 per month.

Source – MyBroadBand

In other news – Man who prophesied Mpura and Killer Kau’s death goes viral

The news of their death was made known today as it was said they died in a car crash. The man with the Twitter name, Masechaba Senwedi shared tweets from April, directing to the two stars.

 

In the post, the man stated that Mpura and Killer Kau will be involved in a car accident later this year. Read More

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A Comparative Analysis Of Land-Casinos and Online Casinos in South Africa

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Online Casinos in South Africa

February 19, 2024, Johannesburg, South Africa (Press Release)  – Are you a gambling enthusiast in South Africa caught in the dilemma of choosing between the electric buzz of land-based casinos and the cutting-edge convenience of online platforms? Well, you’re in luck, as the South African gambling landscape offers the best of both worlds, each with its own unique allure and benefits. Whether you’re someone who relishes the glamour and social interaction of physical casinos, or you prefer the accessibility and innovation of online gaming, South Africa’s diverse gambling market has something tailor-made for you.

The Age-Old Charm of Land-Based Casinos Vs. The Digital Allure of Online Platforms

As of 2024, the land-based gambling market in South Africa continues to be a significant segment of the country’s entertainment industry. The nation is home to some of the most renowned casinos in the world, offering a diverse range of gaming options from traditional casino slot machines to various table games like poker, blackjack, and roulette.

These establishments are not just about gambling; they are complete entertainment destinations, often featuring luxury hotels, fine dining, and live entertainment. The National Gambling Board strictly regulates the sector, ensuring fair play and responsible gambling practices. While the market faces competition from the burgeoning online gambling sector, land-based casinos in South Africa continue to attract both local and international visitors, contributing significantly to the country’s tourism and economy. However, it’s important to note that the landscape of the gambling industry is ever-changing, influenced by technological advancements and shifting consumer preferences.

Online casinos bring unparalleled convenience, allowing players to indulge in their favourite games from the comfort of their homes. The absence of travel requirements and the 24/7 availability of online platforms are just a few reasons why digital gambling is gaining traction in the region.

The Unmatched Benefits of Online Gambling

The unmatched advantages of online gambling go well beyond the convenience of accessibility. Online casinos boast an extensive and diverse range of games, surpassing the limited variety in physical casinos. This vast selection caters to all gamblers, offering everything from traditional slot machines and table games to innovative themed games. Online platforms continuously update their game libraries with fresh and exciting titles, ensuring a dynamic gaming experience that keeps pace with player preferences and the latest trends.

Incorporating cutting-edge technology, online casinos have elevated the gambling experience. Live dealer games, conducted in real-time by professional dealers, bring the authentic atmosphere of a land-based casino into the digital realm, offering a blend of convenience and realism. The emergence of virtual reality (VR) in online gambling is a game-changer, creating immersive, 3D environments that mimic the experience of stepping into a physical casino. This technological advancement enhances the thrill of gambling and attracts a tech-savvy audience seeking interactive and engaging experiences.

Moreover, the allure of online casinos is significantly bolstered by their exclusive no deposit casino bonuses and promotions. These include welcome bonuses, free spins casinos, loyalty rewards, and more, offering added value and increased chances of winning for new and regular players. With options for various stake levels, online casino real money cater to a wide spectrum of financial preferences, from high rollers to casual players. The combination of privacy, a wide array of games, advanced technology, and enticing bonuses makes online gambling a highly appealing and continually evolving field for players globally.

Why Some Gamblers Might Still Prefer Land-Based Casinos

Some gamblers in South Africa might prefer land-based casinos over online options for several reasons. Firstly, the tangible experience of a physical casino, with its vibrant atmosphere, live entertainment, and the social aspect of interacting with other players and staff, can be more engaging and enjoyable for some. Land-based casinos often offer a sense of luxury and a unique ambiance that online platforms cannot replicate.

Secondly, there is a level of trust and security associated with physical transactions and seeing games played in real-time, which some players might find more reassuring than online gambling. Additionally, the immediate payout of winnings in a land-based casino can be more satisfying compared to the processing times of online withdrawals.

Finally, for some, visiting a casino is a special outing or a part of a larger entertainment experience, which includes dining, shows, and other amenities, adding to the overall appeal of land-based casinos in South Africa.

Luckily for South Africans, They Don’t Need to Choose

The choice between land-based and online casinos in South Africa ultimately boils down to personal preference, as both offer unique and compelling experiences. Land-based casinos provide the classic, tangible experience of gambling, complete with the exhilaration of live gameplay, the social aspect of interacting with others, and the luxury of resort-style amenities. They cater to those who appreciate the traditional aspects of gambling and the holistic experience of a night out at a casino.

On the other hand, online casinos appeal to those who value convenience, a wider variety of games, and the innovative features of digital technology. The ease of accessing a multitude of games from anywhere at any time, coupled with the advancements in live dealer games and virtual reality, makes online gambling a continuously evolving and exciting field. Additionally, the attractive bonuses and promotions available online add extra value to the player’s experience.

South Africans are fortunate to have access to high-quality options in both realms. Leading South African gambling portals such as SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za will help players find the type of gambling establishment they seek. Whether it’s an online casino that focuses on slot games, or a land-based casino offering night shows and a massive gambling floor – they have it all listed.

Check the online casino list here:

# Mobile Casino Welcome Bonus Package Bonus Code
1 Springbok Casino R500 Free No Deposit Bonus + R11,500 Free NDC500
2 Europa Casino R375 Free No Deposit Bonus + R24,000 Free N/A (Automatic)
3 ZAR Casino 100 Free No Deposit Bonus + R15,000 Free SAC100
4 Thunderbolt Casino R350 Free No Deposit Bonus + R10,000 Free NDC350
5 Yeti Casino 50 Free Spins No Deposit + R3,333 Free N/A (Automatic)
6 Punt Casino R350 Free No Deposit Bonus + R10,000 Free SAC350
7 Yebo Casino R350 Free No Deposit Bonus + R12,000 Free NEW350
8 Casino Tropez R100 Free No Deposit Bonus + R5,000 Free N/A (Automatic)
9 African Grand R350 Free No Deposit Bonus + R100,000 Free 350SAC
10 Silver Sands R400 Free No Deposit Bonus + R8,888 Free SAC400

About SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za

SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za stands as a leading online casino and gambling guide, meticulously tailored for South African players. Our platform is dedicated to offering thorough and unbiased reviews of top-tier online casinos, specifically focusing on those providing South African Rand (ZAR) banking options. We distinguish ourselves by securing exclusive bonus deals for ZAR Casino players, enhancing their gaming experience. Committed to quality and reliability, SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za is the definitive resource for players seeking trustworthy online casino options in South Africa.

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Toyota top-selling automaker for third year running

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Japan’s Toyota was the world’s top-selling automaker in 2022, retaining its lead over German rival Volkswagen for the third year, company data showed Monday. Despite the chip shortage and Covid-related supply chain disruption, Toyota and its subsidiaries sold nearly 10.5 million vehicles last year, around the same as in 2021.

In comparison, Volkswagen Group — which held the top spot until 2020 when it was overtaken by Toyota — sold 8.3 million units last year, an annual drop of seven percent.

“Despite the impact of production constraints caused by the spread of Covid-19, increased demand for semiconductors, and other factors, global sales were at the same level year-on-year as a result of solid demand centered around Asia,” the Japanese car giant said.

In 2022, Toyota sold 2.7 million electrified vehicles, around five percent more than the previous year. The vast majority of those — 2.6 million — were hybrid models.

Toyota pioneered hybrid cars, but some critics say the company has been slow to make the shift to battery-powered engines even as demand soars for low-emission automobiles.
A year ago, Toyota hiked its targets for the sector and announced it would roll out 30 battery-powered electric models by the end of the decade.

Mio Kato, an analyst at Lightstream Research who publishes on Smartkarma, told AFP that Toyota was likely to keep its top-selling crown in the near term.

“In terms of the actual volumes, it will still be difficult for Volkswagen or General Motors to surpass Toyota easily because both are under more pressure in China with their internal combustion engine business,” he said.

Electric-only carmakers like China’s BYD will one day pose “a genuine threat” to Toyota, he said, because they have strong battery technology and “more experience and better branding” with EVs.

But electric-only automakers are still too small to have a realistic chance of competing with legacy carmakers for several years at least, Kato said.

Last week Toyota named Koji Sato its new president and CEO, replacing third-generation chief executive Akio Toyoda in a surprise reshuffle of the company’s leadership.

Source: eNCA

In other news – Gomora 3 Teasers – February 2023

Coming up on Gomora this February 2023: Mazet asks Zibuko if he wanted Nkomonde’s body to be found and he evades the question. Sbonga borrows money from Nyalleng.

Gomora

A body is found, and it might be one of a well-respected priest. A broke father is desperate to make his daughter’s 18th birthday one she will never forget. Learn more

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Top 5 Forex Brokers that accept M-Pesa in Kenya

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Users of the mobile banking service M-Pesa may save and transfer funds using their smartphones. In Kenya, M-Pesa was made available as an alternate method for people to access financial services. M-Pesa was introduced in 2007 by Safaricom, the leading mobile phone provider in Kenya.

Below we have indicated the best forex brokers accepting M-Pesa in Kenya.

Scope Markets

Overview

Scope Markets is one of the forex brokers accepting m-pesa and an excellent choice if you are a Kenyan trader who wishes to deal with a broker located in the nation, particularly in terms of local deposit and withdrawal payment options, such as M-Pesa.

M-Pesa deposits and withdrawals typically have a 50 USD, GBP, or EUR limit and can take up to 48 hours to process.

Pros

  • Scope Markets is locally licensed and overseen by the CMA in Kenya.
  • Kenyans can choose between MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5 across mobile devices.
  • Scope Markets offers traders dedicated customer support.

Cons

  • The spreads offered are marked-up.
  • There are only a handful of trading tools offered.
  • There is a limited selection of tradable assets offered by Scope Markets.

Pepperstone Markets Kenya Limited

Overview

Pepperstone is a forex brokers in Kenya and has customers from all around the world, with Pepperstone Markets Kenya Limited serving all retail and institutional traders in Kenya. M-Pesa deposits and withdrawals can be done in AUD, USD, JPY, GBP, and several other currencies.

M-Pesa deposits with Pepperstone are instant while withdrawals are typically processed within 3 to 5 working days.

Pros

  • Pepperstone is an exceptionally large and trusted STP and ECN broker in Kenya.
  • The broker has won several industry awards for outstanding customer service.
  • Kenyans have access to convenient, local funding options.

Cons

  • Pepperstone does not support KES as a base currency or deposit/withdrawal currency.
  • The fee schedule could be overwhelming to beginners.
  • There are no instant withdrawals offered on M-Pesa.

FXPesa

Overview

FXPesa is one of the popular retail forex brokers in Kenya, and FXPesa does not charge fees for deposits, but there are some minimums enforced on funding and withdrawals.

The typical processing period for a bank transfer is one to three business days, but M-Pesa deposits are instantaneous.

Pros

  • FXPesa is locally based in Kenya and well-regulated by the CMA.
  • There is a demo account offered to Kenyans that never expires.
  • Kenyans can deposit and withdraw in KES, which exempts them from currency conversion fees.

Cons

  • The ECN Accounts do not have negative balance protection.
  • The spreads on FXPesa accounts can be extremely wide.
  • Withdrawal fees apply.

Exness

Overview

With its diverse account choices, Exness makes trading simple for all traders, from novices to seasoned experts. Over 30 payment methods are accepted for deposits and withdrawals at Exness, and most deposit and withdrawal options are likewise free.

M-Pesa deposits and withdrawals take up to 24 hours to process and there is a minimum deposit of 1,100 KES, with a 110 KES minimum withdrawal.

Pros

  • Exness is a trusted option with regulatory oversight across the globe.
  • Kenyans can choose to use MT4, MT5 or the Exness app to carry out trades.
  • Exness offers a dedicated KES-denominated account and M-Pesa, along with other local funding options.

Cons

  • Exness has an extremely limited product range.
  • Beginner traders are not given a range of educational materials to get them started.

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LiteFinance

Overview

LiteFinance (prev. LiteForex) is a regulated broker that offers Kenyans instant withdrawals on some payment methods. Kenyans are not subject to any commissions when they use M-Pesa to deposit or withdraw, and the minimum deposit amount for M-Pesa is 110 KES.

Pros

  • LiteFinance is well-regulated by CySEC and offers MT4, MT5, and a copy trading platform.
  • Demo accounts are offered by LiteFinance.
  • The mobile trading options include detailed market analysis.

Cons

  • LiteFinance does not currently offer free VPS.
  • The spreads that Kenyans can expect are wide.
  • There is no option to open a KES-denominated account.

Conclusion

Africans are progressively becoming familiar with and accepting of M-Pesa, an African mobile payment service provider, in the forex market. This provides Kenyan traders with more flexibility when they choose their forex and CFD providers.

FAQ

Do you need a bank account to use M-Pesa?

No, to use M-Pesa you merely need a mobile phone number as the payment method is specifically designed for customers who have little or no access to traditional bank accounts.

Is M-Pesa a mobile wallet?

Yes, M-Pesa is what people classically refer to as mobile wallets. These wallets allow users to transfer mobile money to others who do not have a bank account.

You might also be interested in: 5 Best Forex Trading Apps in South Africa

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