South Africans face ongoing financial strain amid slow economic recovery

SOUTH Africans continue to face persistent financial strain, with the country’s sluggish economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic offering little relief to households, according to the online research firm infoQuest.

- STAFF REPORTER

The data says that despite initial hopes that the post-pandemic period would bring improved financial stability, the reality for many remains unchanged. High unemployment, salary increases that lag behind inflation, and a weakened rand have contributed to stagnant household incomes, while the cost of living continues to rise.

This has created an environment in which families are compelled to make difficult decisions simply to meet basic needs.

In August 2025, infoQuest, in partnership with customer experience consultancy Decapod, surveyed to assess the financial well-being of South Africans and the strategies they are employing to cope.

The study, which interviewed 300 consumers across various demographics, paints a picture of a population that is resilient but under considerable financial pressure.

Claire Heckrath, CEO of infoQuest, says that while there has been a slight uptick in financial satisfaction, this is largely due to the resourcefulness and determination of individuals rather than any meaningful economic improvement.

She emphasised that the burden of financial survival has shifted almost entirely onto individuals, with little evidence of systemic support or recovery.