Ashley Lechman

Multimedia Journalist

US Israel conflict with Iran raises inflation risks for South Africa warns KPMG economist

Ashley Lechman|Published

Rising oil prices, a weaker rand and inflation risks could weigh on South Africa’s fragile recovery.

Proactive succession planning can secure the future of South African SMEs

Ashley Lechman|Published

As the lifespan of South African SMEs dwindles, the need for robust succession planning grows ever more critical. Discover how proactive measures can secure the ...

CGCSA welcomes budget as a crucial step towards economic recovery

Ashley Lechman|Published

In an effort to rejuvenate the economy and address pressing societal issues, the CGCSA remains committed to working alongside the government, advocating for sound ...

Financial markets tremble over Middle East tensions

Ashley Lechman|Published

As the Middle East is engulfed in a full-scale military conflict, financial markets tremble. Discover the latest developments in a world on edge and the implications ...

RCL FOODS warns against purchase of stolen condemned pet food

Ashley Lechman|Published

With pet food safety a pressing concern, RCL FOODS takes significant steps to protect both consumers and their furry companions, reminding us all of the importance ...

South Africa's 2026 Budget delivers relief but retains pressure on households

Ashley Lechman|Published

Discover the implications of South Africa's 2026 Budget on households. From unexpected tax relief to ongoing cost-of-living challenges, understand how this financial ...

South Africans risk losing millions by underutilising tax-free savings accounts

Ashley Lechman|Published

Don't let valuable tax-free benefits slip away! Discover how you can maximize your TFSA contributions before the end of the tax year. Thousands are leaving money ...

Only 15% of South Africans can afford private medical aid as costs escalate

Ashley Lechman|Published

Will the new measures introduced by private medical schemes be enough to reverse the trend of downgrading and abandonment? As healthcare costs continue to rise, ...

Education funding increase of 2.44% fails to meet South Africa's urgent needs, says Kagiso Trust

Ashley Lechman|Published

: Kagiso Trust has labelled the recent increase in education funding as insufficient, warning that South Africa's future economic stability is at risk without more ...

SAPVIA applauds infrastructure focus in 2026 Budget, urges for solar PV support

Ashley Lechman|Published

In a transformative moment for South Africa’s energy future, the SAPVIA’s enthusiastic response to the 2026 Budget underlines the urgent need for infrastructure ...

From Parliament to the pantry: What the Budget really means at the till

Ashley Lechman|Published

As South Africans brace for the financial implications of the national Budget, discover how households can navigate rising costs and make informed decisions. Read ...

Ozow backs government’s commitment to modernise South Africa’s payments system

Ashley Lechman|Published

In a bid to modernise the national payments landscape, the South African government has embraced partnership with private sector leaders like Ozow, ensuring that ...

Beer Association of South Africa welcomes stable excise increase for beer industry

Ashley Lechman|Published

BASA applauds the government's CPI-aligned excise duty increase in the 2026 Budget, emphasising its role in promoting stability and growth in the beer industry. ...

Budget 2026: VAT threshold increase to R2.3 million, ushers in much-needed SME relief

Ashley Lechman|Published

As South Africa's economy continues to grapple with challenges, the recent 2026 National Budget has introduced a landmark increase in the VAT threshold for SMEs, ...

South Africa's budget 2026: Optimism amidst economic challenges

Ashley Lechman|Published

In the face of economic adversity, South Africa’s latest budget aims to inspire confidence with bolstered revenue and targeted reforms designed to support growth ...

South Africa's 2026 national budget: A return to traditional fiscal policy

Ashley Lechman|Published

Explore how South Africa's 2026 National Budget marks a return to fiscal tradition, with key adjustments for individuals and small businesses while signalling a ...

South Africa’s budget fails to address immediate consumer financial crisis

Ashley Lechman|Published

As South Africa faces rising household costs, the 2026 National Budget is met with disappointment. Find out why industry experts are calling for more immediate relief ...

Budget 2026: Tax reforms offer vital relief for small businesses in South Africa

Ashley Lechman|Published

Discover how the 2026 Budget's tax reforms, driven by insights from over 1,200 small business owners, aim to provide crucial relief and support for South Africa's ...

Watch VideoWatch live: Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana delivers 2026 budget

Ashley Lechman|Published

Join us as South Africa's Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana delivers the 2026 Budget Speech, unveiling crucial fiscal policies that will shape the nation's economic ...

Investing in digital infrastructure is crucial for South Africa's budgetary resilience

Ashley Lechman|Published

As South Africa prepares for its national budget, Vuyani Jarana advocates for a bold investment in digital infrastructure that promises to transform education, healthcare, ...

All eyes on Enoch Godongwana's budget: insights for consumers

Ashley Lechman|Published

As South Africa gears up for its vital budget, what can consumers expect? Experts weigh in on potential tax implications, infrastructure investments, and the need ...

Will South Africa's 2026 budget provide relief for struggling workers?

Ashley Lechman|Published

As South Africa braces for the National Budget Speech, workers are left wondering if this year's budget will truly address their pressing economic challenges. With ...

How the 2026 Budget affects South African families

Ashley Lechman|Published

With South Africa's Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana, set to deliver the 2026 Budget Speech, the focus shifts to the real-life implications for families grappling ...

South Africa's 2026 Budget Speech: A hope for economic recovery?

Ashley Lechman|Published

With South Africa's Minister of Finance set to deliver the 2026 Budget Speech, citizens are eager for signs of fiscal relief amid rising costs and a growing credit ...

Wearables and IoT rise, but smartphones remain the central hub of connectivity

Ashley Lechman|Published

In a world where technology constantly evolves, discover why smartphones remain at the heart of our digital lives, connecting us to everything from fitness trackers ...