Don Mahon: South African Commercial Law Blog

25/01/2025

Trump's return to office is not just an American affair—it could reverberate across South Africa too.

Consider this:

Trade dynamics between SA and the US might face significant shifts. With the US as a crucial trading partner, any changes in tariffs or policies could heavily impact our local industries.

Next, there's foreign policy. Trump's approach could pivot the US's focus in Africa, with possible effects on SA’s diplomatic engagements.

Financial markets may react sharply. Trump's policies could stir global uncertainties, influencing foreign investments here in South Africa.

On a brighter note, a resurgent US economy could open doors for increased SA exports.

In these times of potential change, local businesses must remain vigilant and adaptable.

How do you see these scenarios unfolding?

22/01/2025

Ever thought about what commercial litigation really costs a business?

It's more than just legal fees.

Here's a deep dive into hidden costs:

1️⃣ Time – Endless hours drained from executives, dragging productivity.
Example: Top management gets bogged down in legal strategy meetings instead of growth.

2️⃣ Reputation – The shadow of public perception lingers.
Think: Clients reconsidering their partnership due to prolonged disputes.

3️⃣ Lost Opportunities – When strategic focus diverts from core business.
Consider: Missing out on mergers or acquisitions while tangled in court.

4️⃣ Employee Morale – The silent, internal storm.
Result: Uncertainty, stress, and distraction filter through the workforce.

5️⃣ Cash Flow Disruption – The unforeseeable financial burden.
Outcome: Redirecting funds that could have amplified business expansion.

Litigation isn't just legal strategy—it's a business strategy with unpredictable outcomes. What's your backup plan for your company's future?

10/01/2025

https://sacommerciallaw.com/2025/01/10/67-of-barristers-are-currently-using-or-plan-to-use-genai-lexisnexisuk/

67% of are currently using or plan to use , a recent 2024 LexisNexis survey has found. We investigate why barristers are taking to …67% of are currently using or plan …

06/01/2025

Too true…

31/12/2024

Payment certificates are essential in construction law, balancing contractor remuneration with employer interests. This article explores their provisional nature, legal status as liquid documents, …

23/12/2024

When interest is part of a voluntary disclosure agreement, it stays in.

08/08/2024

🇧🇼

25/08/2018

Far-reaching proposed changes to the taxation of foreign trusts The South African Draft Taxation Laws Amendment Bill, 2018 (the “Draft Bill”), which was published by the Minister of Finance on 16 July 2018, introduces many of the tax proposals announced in the 2018 Budget Review earlier this year. Consistent with the general trend of combatting perceived areas ...

Far-reaching proposed changes to the taxation of foreign trusts The South African Draft Taxation Laws Amendment Bill, 2018 (the “Draft Bill”), which was published by the Minister of Finance on 16 J…

15/08/2018

South Africa joins 48 African countries in signing the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement – Polity

South Africa joins 48 African countries in signing the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement On 1 July 2018, South Africa, along with five other countries, became party to the African Conti…

15/08/2018

South Africa joins 48 African countries in signing the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement On 1 July 2018, South Africa, along with five other countries, became party to the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement (AfCFTA), joining the 44 existing signatories to the agreement. AfCFTA is a treaty between consenting countries whereby a free trade area is constituted which allows memb...

South Africa joins 48 African countries in signing the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement On 1 July 2018, South Africa, along with five other countries, became party to the African Conti…

15/08/2018

Retweeted Unfolding Media ():

A Consortium of Law Firms to launch biggest collective lawsuit in SA History, against the Group. Almost R190 Billion ($13.7 Billion) was wiped of its equity since accounting irregularities came to light. Roughly the same amount is being pursued. https://t.co/uZzDsjeqXo