Here are five important things happening in South Africa on Wednesday, 31 December 2025.

The price of gold soared by more than 60% this year to hit a record high of more than $4,549.

South African workers effectively lose two days off in 2026 despite the country officially having 12 public holidays, but there is a silver lining.

Typical household bills will rise slightly under the new energy cap which takes effect on 1 January.

Wealthy South Africans are increasingly turning their backs on big city living and moving to smaller coastal towns along the Garden Route.

The energy firm sells a $1bn stake in its technology arm Kraken, paving the way for its demerger.