Planning Topics
By Rita Cool The implications of the 2025 National Budget have placed a renewed focus on tax-efficient investment vehicles as a critical tool for South Africans looking to grow and preserve their wealth in an uncertain economic landscape. As the government seeks to bolster revenue generation…
This week Statistics SA released the February year-on-year inflation figures and the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) decided to maintain the repo rate at its current 7.5%. Accordingly, the prime lending rate remains 11%.On the interest rate decision, law firm STBB commented: “This comes after…
South African consumers receeived no relief from the South African Reserve Bank (Sarb) on Thursday after the central bank's Monetary Policy Committee's (MPC) voted on keeping the repurchase rate in the country unchanged. Sarb governor, Lesetja Kganyago said that four members preferred…
South African Reserve Bank (Sarb) governor, Lesetja Kganyago, announces the central bank's Monetary Policy Committee's (MPC) decision on the repurchase rate (repo rate) in the country. Ahead of the governor's announcement it was widely predicted by economists and analysts that the Sarb would…
By Stuart PodmoreForecasting economic and market variables is inherently difficult, with research suggesting that only 23% of professional forecasts prove accurate. Add in US policy uncertainty – President Trump signed a flurry of executive orders on his first day in office – and the outlook for…
Although geopolitical events beyond our borders could derail our economy in ways we cannot fathom, there is room to be optimistic about South Africa’s residential property market. The national market has been in the doldrums (there have been regional exceptions, such as the Western Cape) ever…
By Sherry TapfumaOne of the key objectives of estate planning is to reduce estate duty liabilities, ensuring that more of your wealth is passed on to your loved ones. In South Africa, estate duty is 20% on estates up to R30 million and 25% on anything above that. However, the first R3.5 million of…
By Nicola MawsonAn ex-employee recently learnt the hard way that, by defrauding her former employer, she may not only have to face charges but could also lose all the contributions made into her pension fund – including the portion that would have formed part of her cost-to-company earnings.A…
By Tlamelo Ntabeni Recent high-profile corporate and accounting scandals, coupled with emerging regulations, both locally and globally, is accelerating the urgency with which asset managers integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations. A decade ago, asset managers could…
World’s assets decline in MarchThe value of the world’s assets surged ahead in the first two months of 2025, but in March gave up almost half their gains, shrinking by $3.4 trillion, according to the latest Global Asset Monitor from asset administrator Ocorian. Up until the end of February, the…
What appears to have been a tornado swept through Montana in northern Pretoria last week, causing widespread damage to cars, buildings, the contents of these buildings, external geysers, and more. Trees were uprooted, roofs were blown away, areas and roads were flooded, and many residents had to be…
Many South Africans believe they need significant capital to begin investing. However, according to Haydn Johns, Head of PSG Life and PSG Invest at PSG Wealth, the key is to start with what you have and remain consistent.“One of the biggest mistakes new investors make is believing their…
By Craig BlignautIt has become increasingly challenging for service providers to meet consumer demand for accessible data, and this is changing the shape of service delivery and innovation in 2025. In the first quarter of 2024, one user consumed 411.4 terabytes of data. According to MTN…
In a transformative endeavour to reconnect South Africans with their unclaimed dividends, Claim It, a collaborative effort spearheaded by the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), was ignited following the insightful findings of the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) in 2022. Their research…
In a bold move set to shake up the online trading landscape, FXGT.com has launched its groundbreaking Ultimate Cashback program. This outstanding initiative empowers traders with unlimited earning potential, ensuring that every trade counts. Unparalleled Cashback Opportunities With Ultimate…
The 2025 Budget Speech delivered by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana highlighted significant fiscal measures aimed at addressing South Africa’s economic challenges. The budget highlighted the government’s commitment to macroeconomic stability, revenue generation, and technological…
In South Africa, many of us are caught between the desire to live a healthier lifestyle and the pressure to achieve financial stability. The introduction of higher sin taxes, set to increase from 4.75% to 6.75%, is about to place a heavier financial burden on smokers and drinkers. However, this…
In a significant move impacting South African electricity consumers, the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) has approved new tariff increases for Eskom, following a meeting on March 11.The decision marks an average increase of 12.74% for Eskom’s direct customers…
A well-structured financial plan is the foundation of long-term financial security. Research shows that individuals who follow a comprehensive plan are more likely to save consistently for retirement, manage debt effectively, and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. Here we explore the essential…
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana delivered this year’s postponed Budget Speech, which presented a budget subject to Parliamentary approval. Knowing how the proposed Budget Speech affects you will give you the power to take control of your finances, relook at your financial…