South Africa · Markets
Key Facts
—First in 21 years: Fitch raised South Africa’s long-term rating from BB- to BB on June 5, 2026, its first upgrade for the country since 2005.
—Why it happened: The agency cited primary budget surpluses averaging about 1% of GDP over four years, alongside stronger revenue collection and spending discipline.
—One step closer: BB sits two notches below investment grade, leaving Pretoria nearer the threshold that unlocks a far wider pool of global capital.











