Weakness persists in swiping values

Mbongeni Mguni | Thursday November 12, 2026 12:19

Bank of Botswana figures indicate that the drop in the half-year would have been steeper, had some recovery not been achieved in the second quarter. The value of swiping transactions between January and March this year was about 37% down from the same quarter in 2025, whilst the second quarter of 2026 was higher at P25.3 billion, compared to P22.2 billion over the same period last year.

Analysts say the latest numbers indicate a continuing soft trend in consumer spending, after total Electronic Fund Transfer at Point of Sale (EFTPOS) values dropped to P85.4 billion in 2025, from P120.6 billion in 2024. Last year was the first time the key numbers have declined from one year to the next, according to Bank of Botswana data. Whilst the central bank did not give reasons for the decline, analysts expect that the downtrend is linked to the tighter liquidity experienced in the financial sector, amidst the broader contraction in the economy.

The lower figures could also be reflective of lower consumer spending and confidence, trends which are presently not scientifically monitored by data authorities in the country. According to the BoB, the value of ATM withdrawals dropped to P31.4 billion in the first half of this year, compared to P52 billion over the corresponding period last year, a decline of nearly 40%. The decline in ATM values matches the EFTPOS and is believed to be related to liquidity challenges, weaker economic performance, and consumer spending.