In a major development for South Africa’s digital banking sector, TymeBank has officially rebranded to GoTyme Bank. The name change was announced in early 2026 as part of the Tyme Group’s global brand consolidation strategy.
The transition aligns South Africa’s leading digital bank with its international operations, including GoTyme in the Philippines and its planned expansion into Vietnam.
For customers wondering:
- Is TymeBank closing?
- Is my money safe?
- Do I need a new card?
- Is GoTyme Bank legit?
Here’s everything you need to know.
TymeBank Name Change: Why It Became GoTyme Bank
The move from TymeBank to GoTyme Bank is not a merger or shutdown. It is a strategic rebrand designed to create a single global identity across all markets under the Tyme Group umbrella.
Key Reasons for the Rebrand
- Global Brand Consistency – Aligning South Africa with the Philippines and future markets.
- Investor Positioning – Strengthening international credibility.
- Group Expansion Strategy – Preparing for multi-country digital banking scale.
- Simplified Brand Narrative – One unified name across all territories.
According to CEO Coenraad Jonker, the rebrand reflects the bank’s maturity and international ambitions.
TymeBank has grown to more than 9 million customers since launching in 2019, making it one of South Africa’s fastest-growing retail banks.
The group is backed by major investors including African Rainbow Capital.
Is GoTyme Bank Still Licensed in South Africa?
Yes.
GoTyme Bank continues operating under the same banking licence regulated by the South African Reserve Bank and supervised by the Prudential Authority.
Nothing has changed regarding:
- Banking licence
- Regulatory oversight
- Deposit protection structure
- Compliance requirements
- Security systems
This is strictly a brand name update — not a structural change.
What the TymeBank Rebrand Means for Customers
The transition is designed to be seamless.
1. Your Account and Money
- Your account number remains the same
- Your balance is unaffected
- Debit orders and scheduled payments continue normally
- Savings accounts remain active
- Your money is protected under the same regulatory framework
- There is no need to reapply or open a new account.
2. Your TymeBank Visa Card
Your existing TymeBank black-and-yellow Visa debit card will:
- Continue working until expiry
- Function at ATMs, POS machines, and online stores
- When your card expires or you request a replacement, it will be issued under the new GoTyme Bank branding.
3. The GoTyme Bank App Update
The TymeBank app will automatically transition into the GoTyme Bank app via a standard update in:
- Google Play Store
- Apple App Store
- You do not need to download a new application.
- Expected enhancements include:
- Cleaner user interface
- Faster transaction processing
- Improved biometric login
- Expanded product integrations
4. Physical Kiosks at Retail Stores
The in-store kiosks located at Pick n Pay and Boxer stores nationwide will gradually transition to GoTyme Bank branding.
Customers can still:
- Open an account in under 5 minutes
- Print debit cards instantly
- Get in-store assistance
How GoTyme Bank Competes in South Africa’s Digital Banking Market
The rebrand positions GoTyme Bank more aggressively against:
- Capitec Bank
- Discovery Bank
- Bank Zero
GoTyme differentiates itself through:
- Low or zero monthly fees
- Retail store banking integration
- Hybrid digital + physical model
- Rapid account onboarding
This hybrid strategy remains unique in South Africa’s fintech space.
GoTyme Bank’s Continued Focus: Financial Inclusion
Despite the name change, the mission remains the same, to improve financial inclusion in South Africa.
The bank continues offering:
- Low-cost transactional accounts
- No hidden monthly charges
- Accessible banking for underbanked communities
- Nationwide physical support points
This rebrand strengthens — rather than shifts — its core strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions About the TymeBank Rebrand
Is TymeBank shutting down?
No. TymeBank has simply changed its name to GoTyme Bank. The bank continues operating as normal.
Is GoTyme Bank legit?
Yes. GoTyme Bank remains fully licensed and regulated under the South African Reserve Bank framework.
Is GoTyme Bank the same as TymeBank?
Yes. It is the same bank, same accounts, same systems — only the brand name has changed.
Do I need to get a new card immediately?
No. Your existing TymeBank card works until expiry.
Will my debit orders still go through?
Yes. All debit orders, stop orders, and recurring payments continue uninterrupted.
