SARB Rate Call: South Africans brace for a first rate hike in three years as inflation hits a 19-month high (4% in April) and economists expect the Reserve Bank to lift borrowing costs by 25 bps, pushing the prime rate to 10.50%, with households already squeezed by debt and stagnant wages. Rand Watch: The rand weakened ahead of the decision as traders priced in tighter policy amid Middle East-linked oil and fuel risks. Joburg Budget Pressure: Johannesburg tabled a R97.1bn 2026/27 budget, with electricity and water as key revenue drivers, but the plan faces scrutiny as the city battles financial strain and service delivery risks. City Power Loan Fight: ActionSA slammed a proposed R3.8bn KfW loan for City Power, warning residents will carry the burden of a 15-year repayment while Eskom threatens disconnections over arrears. Operation Prosper Escalates: Cape Town police say Operation Prosper is moving into a more targeted anti-gang phase focused on gang leaders, extortion syndicates and financiers. Border Crackdown: At Beitbridge, authorities intercepted a truck carrying nearly R1bn worth of mandrax precursor (methaqualone), arresting three suspects. Xenophobia Fallout: ANC leaders rebuked vigilante groups threatening migrants, as protests and school chaos continued in the Western Cape during Ghanaian repatriations. Local Elections Push: The IEC launched its 2026 Local Government Elections campaign ahead of 4 November 2026. World Cup Money: FIFA World Cup 2026 club compensation could deliver big pay days for PSL teams, with Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns among the biggest beneficiaries. JSE/Markets: Balwin’s delisting buyout led by PIC (R2.26bn) and Hexagon Nutrition’s IPO opening (June 5) add to a busy week for investors. Education Focus: Basic Education launched the South Africa Education Accelerator with a push on literacy, numeracy and digital skills.