• According to the South African national statistical service, STATSSA, there was a significant decrease in business liquidations in April 2023, by 18.8% compared to the same period last year.
• Liquidations of close corporations notably decreased, while liquidations of larger companies saw a slight increase. On the whole, for the first four months of 2023, total liquidations have reduced by 12.8% compared to the same period in 2022, signalling a potential recovery or stabilization in the South African business sector.
• While this trend is promising, there are potential future obstacles, such as global and local economic conditions, that could influence these statistics. Thus, continued support for businesses is essential to maintain this positive trend and promote further stability in the economy.

In the latest key findings from the South African national statistical service, STATS SA, a noticeable decrease in total liquidations was reported in April 2023. According to their P0043.1 – Statistics of Liquidations report, liquidations dipped by 18.8% compared to the same period in the previous year. This reduction in liquidations is a sign of potentially stabilizing conditions in the South African business sector.

STATS SA’s data revealed that the total number of liquidations, which includes both companies and close corporations, saw a substantial reduction. The decrease in liquidations of close corporations was particularly notable, falling by 28 cases compared to April 2022. Meanwhile, liquidations of companies observed a marginal increase, with an addition of two cases.

The decrease in liquidations of close corporations reflects a positive sign for these smaller, typically more flexible businesses. These entities often serve as significant contributors to the economy, providing essential services, and employing a considerable number of South Africans. As such, the decrease in liquidations signals an improving economic climate for these corporations, which may be due to several factors, including a more favourable business climate, improved access to finance, or more successful business strategies.

The slight increase in liquidations of larger companies is an intriguing element within these statistics. However, an increase of two cases compared to the previous year is not necessarily an alarming trend, given the complexities and inherent risks involved in running larger corporations.

It’s also crucial to note the year-to-date statistics. When comparing the first four months of 2023 with the same period in 2022, the total number of liquidations in South Africa has decreased by 12.8%. This year-to-date decrease is a promising sign for the broader South African economy and suggests a potential recovery or stabilization trend after periods of economic uncertainty.

This decrease could be attributed to a range of factors, including government initiatives to support struggling businesses, improved economic conditions, or an evolution in how businesses are being managed during challenging times. A less volatile global economy, recovery from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and stronger domestic economic conditions could all be contributors to these figures.

However, it’s important to remember that these are early figures and only represent a small snapshot of the year. Economic conditions can change quickly, and businesses can face numerous challenges that could potentially influence these statistics in the future.

The effects of inflation, interest rates, and global political tensions could pose risks for South African businesses. Additionally, local issues such as the country’s power situation and labour disputes could also influence the business environment and, subsequently, liquidation rates.

STATS SA’s report is a useful barometer of the country’s economic health, providing crucial insights into the business landscape. As such, the figures showing a decrease in liquidations are promising. They provide an encouraging sign for South Africa’s economic future, although there are still potential obstacles that must be navigated carefully.

South Africa’s economy has shown resilience in the face of numerous challenges, and these latest figures appear to underline this trait. However, it is essential to remain cautious and continue supporting businesses at all levels to maintain this positive trend and promote further growth and stability in the economy.

STATS SA’s continued research and reporting will be crucial in monitoring these trends and providing important data that can inform both governmental policy and business strategy.