Row rect Shape Decorative svg added to bottom CONSUMER INSIGHTS Absa Merchant Spend Analytics Report : H1 2025 Absa | Corporate and Investment Banking > Insights and Events > Absa Merchant Spend Analytics Report: H1 2025 SHARE Card spending and transaction volumes experience an expected downturn. Month-to-month (MTM): Consumer card spending remained volatile in June 2025, with most categories experiencing significant declines. Following a minor recovery in May, both card spending and transaction volumes decreased once more. Historically, June typically marks a downturn before a July rebound. Year-to-date (YTD): Overall card activity year-to-date indicates a general slowdown, suggesting more cautious consumer behaviour or tighter household budgets. This is evidenced by a shift towards smaller transaction sizes, a trend that was also highlighted at the Absa Consumer Conference in Cape Town. Key insights Your browser does not support the video tag. In addition to unpacking category-level performance data, this month’s publication also explores the evolution of the gambling category and its impact on consumer behaviour. Download the latest Report Access latest Press Release https://cib.absa.africa/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/file_example_MP3_700KB.mp3 Related Articles CONSUMER INSIGHTS Absa Merchant Spend Analytics Report: January 2026 Following heightened festive season activity, January’s Merchant Spend Analytics Report reflects a typical post-holiday slowdown in both card spending and transaction volumes. This moderation aligns with expected consumer behaviour as households recalibrate after year-end expenditure. Read more CONSUMER INSIGHTS Absa Merchant Spend Analytics Report: December 2025 We are pleased to share the December 2025 edition of Absa’s Merchant Spend Analytics, which provides a view of festive season spending patterns and year‑end consumer behaviour. Read more CONSUMER INSIGHTS Absa Merchant Spend Analytics Report: October 2025 After September’s subdued activity, October’s Merchant Spend Analytics Report reflects a measured but meaningful rebound. Card spending increased by 4%, while transaction volumes rose 2%, supported by the highest average ticket value recorded this year. This steady improvement reinforces Q4’s reputation as retail’s stabilising force, offering early signs of renewed confidence. Read more
