Planning Topics
As the festive season ends and the New Year begins, many employees find themselves in the financial gap known as "Januworry." The stretch between December's early pay cheque and January's final days, coupled with premium increases and back-to-school expenses, often leaves employees financially…
By: Karen RimmerThe start of a new year often brings changes in routines, fresh opportunities, and – if you’re lucky – new prized possessions acquired during the festive season. While many focus on resolutions for the year ahead, it’s equally important to consider what has changed in your life that…
Growing up in a family that ran a small construction firm, I was pulled into many hard financial conversations - and sometimes memorable full-blown fights - between couples taking on remodeling.I lost count of the times a customer pulled me aside and divulged financial secrets to be…
By: Niresh GopichandWith nearly half of South Africans considered financially illiterate, teaching children about money is a crucial skill that parents should prioritise. According to behavioral experts David Whitebread and Sue Bingham from the University of Cambridge, children begin forming money…
Email has become a cornerstone of modern communication, but it’s also a favourite tool for cybercriminals. Phishing scams – fraudulent emails designed to trick recipients into sharing sensitive information – are a growing concern, particularly in South Africa, where digital adoption continues to…
By Thomas Berry, Head of Sales at PSG WealthThe tax year-end on 28 February is fast approaching, but there’s still time to take action and get the most out of your contributions if you have not already. Whether you’re looking to boost your retirement fund or grow your savings tax-free, Retirement…
By: Ans GerberAs we start 2025 and set new goals for our health, employment, or education prospects, it's also a good idea to look into our financial fitness. Taking steps towards financial well-being can help you achieve a more secure and prosperous year.In 2024, the South…
As the summer holidays wind down, South African parents face the annual financial strain of back-to-school preparations. From extensive stationery lists to costly uniforms, the financial burden of equipping children for the academic year continues to weigh heavily on families.“Back-to-school…
Small businesses are the lifeblood of South Africa’s economy, driving innovation, job creation, and economic growth. However, these businesses face numerous challenges, with late payments being a significant and persistent issue. Late payments cost small business owners valuable time and money,…
South Africa is a growing cybercrime hotspot on the African continent, with attacks on businesses becoming more common as well as increasingly sophisticated. Karen Rimmer, head of distribution at PSG Insure, highlights that the consequences of cybercrime can be devastating, leading to…
From the war in Ukraine to tensions in the Middle East, global conflicts and economic uncertainties are disrupting societies, economies and politics, and the ripple effects of these events are felt in the insurance industry. Natural disasters are also growing in frequency and severity due to…
By: Hannah MyburghHuman biases—whether cognitive, emotional, or psychological—often result in suboptimal investment decisions. Cognitive biases, such as confirmation bias, stem from mental shortcuts we use to process information, which can cloud judgment. Emotional biases, however, arise when fear…
By: Hannah Myburgh A credit card can simplify your spending, help manage daily finances, and improve your credit score. However, to fully benefit from it, you must use it strategically. Here are key factors to consider when maximising your credit card’s advantages.A credit card is a form of pre-…
New Year’s resolutions often prioritise physical and emotional health—whether it’s committing to a gym routine, making mindful food choices, or setting personal boundaries. However, the start of a new year is also the perfect time to focus on your financial health.Jessica…
In today’s unpredictable economic climate, South African families are prioritising financial security, with many turning to life and funeral insurance to safeguard their loved ones. These policies provide essential support, covering funeral costs, settling debts, and ensuring that basic needs such…
By: Catherine FourieNot to dampen anyone’s excitement, but the more than generous Christmas gift you received in the form of a large sum of money, shares, or a new set of wheels standing in the garage with a big red ribbon tied around it, may very well excite the tax man too.Yes, in South Africa…
Refinancing a home is seen as a last resort for many, but the recent succession of interest rate hikes and the rising cost of living has left many consumers in search of financial relief.Here’s what you need to know about the process.In a case where you wish to refinance your home, you’ll apply for…
One of the most prevalent things that keeps small and medium enterprise (SME) owners up at night is cash flow; especially if they are determined to scale and succeed in the current economic climate. Without cash flow, SMEs do not have one of the key resources to foster sustainable growth. Even more…
By: DoshguideFinding the right financial advisor who will act in your best interest will help set you up for success. While there are plenty of financial advisors in South Africa who would be happy to partner with you, the quality of advice they offer can vary considerably.Here are some questions…
By Mariska Redelinghuys In the context of estate planning, we often talk about ‘leaving a legacy’, which may lead to the terms ‘estate planning’ and ‘legacy planning’ being used interchangeably. However, they do differ.Estate planning refers to growing and protecting your assets over your lifetime…