South Africa’s digital-first banking pioneer, TymeBank, is preparing for a significant transformation as it plans to rebrand as GoTyme in the first half of 2026. The move marks a strategic effort to align its South African identity with its international operations under the Tyme Group umbrella. The rebrand underscores the company’s evolution from a local fintech disruptor to a multinational digital banking force with over 10 million customers.
Brand Evolution and Strategic Alignment
The rebrand was revealed during a recent investor session, signaling TymeBank’s intention to reflect its maturity and growth trajectory. Pontsho Ramontsha, the bank’s head of corporate communications, confirmed that the transition to GoTyme aims to embody the company’s broader commitment to inclusivity and accessibility across economic segments. Once regulatory and internal approvals are finalized, the new identity will officially debut, bringing South Africa in line with Tyme’s brand presence in Asia.
From Mobile Money to Banking Innovation
TymeBank’s journey began in 2012 when Deloitte Consulting coined “Tyme,” short for “Take Your Money Everywhere.” Originally a mobile money initiative backed by MTN and supported by Pick n Pay and Bank of Athens, Tyme quickly evolved into a full-fledged banking platform. After Commonwealth Bank of Australia acquired the business in 2015 for R365 million, Tyme’s technology became the foundation for a new wave of digital banking across markets.
Rise of a Digital Banking Leader
Patrice Motsepe’s African Rainbow Capital (ARC) acquired TymeDigital from Commonwealth Bank in 2018, setting the stage for rapid expansion. Within a year, TymeBank onboarded its first million customers and by 2024, surpassed 10 million users, earning a $1.5 billion valuation. The bank achieved profitability in December 2023, becoming the first digital bank in South Africa and on the continent to break even. Former CEO Coenraad Jonker emphasized that this milestone places TymeBank among the fewer than 5% of neobanks worldwide that have achieved profitability.
Global Expansion Through Tyme Group
Headquartered in Singapore, Tyme Group has launched operations in several Asian markets under the GoTyme brand. Its GoTyme Bank Philippines subsidiary, launched in late 2022, attracted 3.6 million users within 18 months, highlighting strong adoption in emerging economies. The rebrand in South Africa signals TymeBank’s intent to present a unified global brand while leveraging its proven digital banking infrastructure to scale further across Africa and Asia.
Public Sector Collaboration and Service Integration
Beyond retail banking, TymeBank continues to strengthen its role in public service delivery. In partnership with South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs, the bank will enable citizens to apply for smart ID cards and passports via its kiosks and mobile app. Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber described the initiative as part of the government’s “Home Affairs @ Home” vision, designed to expand access to vital services in underserved regions. CEO Karl Westvig called the partnership a “natural alignment” that reflects TymeBank’s mission to empower citizens through secure and inclusive technology.
Customer-Centric Banking Model
TymeBank’s hybrid model, which integrates digital convenience with physical accessibility, has been central to its success. With over 1,450 kiosks across Pick n Pay, Boxer, and The Foschini Group outlets, the bank bridges the gap between online banking and in-person service. Customers benefit from instant account setup, affordable financial products, and soon, government service applications—all through an accessible and digitally secure platform.
As TymeBank transitions to GoTyme, the rebrand represents more than a cosmetic change; it signals the next chapter in its growth as a pan-African and global fintech innovator. The move consolidates its international identity, reinforces its profitability milestone, and strengthens its partnerships across both private and public sectors. With over 11 million users and a $1.5 billion valuation, GoTyme is set to redefine digital banking standards in South Africa and beyond.
Source: News24