South African SMEs are becoming more strategic about growth, funding and cash flow management as business conditions improve, according to Lula's latest SME Pulse Report.
South African small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are entering a new phase of cautious optimism in 2026, moving beyond pure survival and embracing more disciplined, growth focused strategies despite an increasingly uncertain global economic environment.
This was according to Lula's latest SME Pulse Report, which found that improving affordability, easing inflation and greater energy stability have helped restore confidence among business owners.
However, geopolitical tensions, oil price volatility and global market uncertainty continue to pose significant risks.
Trevor Gosling, chief executive officer of Lula, said the latest findings show a notable shift in how entrepreneurs are approaching business growth.
