Smart Spending: How AI Is Changing the Way South Africans Shop

Smart Spending: How AI Is Changing the Way South Africans Shop

From Afternoon Drive with John Maytham by CapeTalk

April 30, 2026 · 6 min

About this episode

The episode discusses how AI is transforming shopping behaviors in South Africa with insights from Neesa Moodley.

speaks to Neesa Moodley, Associate Business Editor at Daily Maverick, who unpacks how AI is quietly reshaping consumer habits—and what it means for retailers, banks and the broader economy. As households adjust to ongoing financial pressure, AI is not just a convenience tool—it’s becoming a gatekeeper between consumers and unnecessary spending.  Presenter John Maytham is an actor and author-turned-talk radio veteran and seasoned journalist. His show serves a round-up of local and international news coupled with the latest in business, sport, traffic and weather. The host’s eclectic interests mean the program often surprises the audience with intriguing book reviews and inspiring interviews profiling artists.  A daily highlight is Rapid Fire, just after 5:30pm. CapeTalk fans call in, to stump the presenter with their general knowledge questions. Another firm favourite is the humorous Thursday crossing with award-winning journalist Rebecca Davis, called “Plan B”.  Thank you for listening to a podcast from Afternoon Drive with John Maytham  Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 15:00 and 18:00 (SA Time) to Afternoon Drive with…

People in this episode

Host: John Maytham

Guest: Neesa Moodley

Topics covered

  • AI
  • consumer habits
  • retail
  • economy
  • financial pressure
  • spending

Keywords

  • AI
  • shopping
  • consumer behavior
  • retail
  • economy
  • financial pressure
  • spending habits

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Daily Maverick, CapeTalk

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