Christal van der Merwe

Commodities & Global Real Estate Columnist — Ground Truth

Born into a multi-generational farming family of Vans, Christal holds a BSc. in Geology and Economics from Stellenbosch. Christal bypassed the safe world of investment banking, mining & consulting to cover the brutal world of African mining and extraction. She believes paper wealth can vanish overnight, but land and resources are the only true power.

south africa interest rates

South Africa Rate Hikes Cut Amid Iran Oil Deal

Traders reduce South African rate hike bets as a US-Iran peace deal sends oil prices plummeting. This eases inflation pressure, impacting SARB policy decisions.

Jun 15, 2026 · 11:13 UTC

iran war oil prices

Iran War Impacts Oil Prices

The war in Iran is causing oil prices to spike, affecting the global economy and reconstruction efforts, with the poor suffering the most from increased costs

Jun 15, 2026 · 10:43 UTC

oil prices iran peace deal

Oil Prices Tumble: US Iran Peace Deal Eases

Oil prices fell sharply after a US-Iran peace deal, easing global tensions. This reduces inflation risks for import-dependent South Africa, potentially halting

Jun 15, 2026 · 08:43 UTC

commodities inflation

El Niño's Impact on Global Commodity Markets

El Niño threatens to disrupt global commodity markets, pushing inflation higher

Jun 9, 2026 · 18:32 UTC

australia housing property market

Australia's Housing Market Stalls: A Deep Dive into the Forces at Play

Australia's housing market flatlines in May, driven by RBA rate hikes, low consumer confidence, and new property tax reforms. Sydney and Melbourne decline, while rents rise.

May 31, 2026 · 18:27 UTC

australian housing property market

Australian Housing Market Cools: A Deep Dive into May 2026 Trends

Australia's housing market flatlined in May 2026, with Sydney and Melbourne seeing declines. High interest rates, low consumer confidence, and new property tax proposals are cooling the once-hot market.

May 31, 2026 · 14:41 UTC