Most South African consumers feel challenged by their finances, with relatively few saying that they are highly successful at sticking to their financial goals or are knowledgeable about financial matters.This was revealed when the Financial Planning Institute of Southern Africa (FPI) conducted a nationwide survey, in conjunction with the Financial Planning Standards Board (FPSB) and … Read More
Certain provinces have been struggling to keep up with the skyrocketing cost of food. Current data points to an agriculture industry that is struggling, mainly due to the diminished buying power of the rand and a prolonged drought.November 2015 saw the worst drought in South Africa in 23 years. During this time Stats SA released … Read More
Retirement planning is only one component of a holistic financial plan and although retirement has a higher probability than all the other risk areas, this is the area we find people being the worst prepared for. Retirement doesn’t happen at 65… it happens when you make it happen!Planning for retirement is much like planning a … Read More
For the first time in South Africa, financial advice is set to become a billable service. Known as the Retail Distribution Review (RDR), the first phase will be implemented later this year (2016), introducing some significant changes for both consumers and financial advisors alike.As with all change, some sound preparation and a positive outlook will … Read More
South Africa’s weakened Rand is bound to have a negative rippling effect on our economy. The cost of food, electricity, water and imported goods are all set to rise. Now is as best a time as any to take secure control of your finances.Budget According to the National Credit Regulator (NCR), as at June 2015 … Read More
I found a great article talking about some of the major themes that are predicted to influence professional industries this year. A big part of running a successful business is staying up-to-date with current trends that are affecting the marketplace.Here are three trends that are set to be prevalent this year:Trust as the key competitive … Read More
Also known as The Commutation of Benefits, there are some big changes coming for retirement and provident fund holders. Essentially, these all relate to how the money is drawn (commuted) or re-invested.After being delayed by a year, the Taxation Laws Amendment Act is being put into place on 1 March 2016 (‘T-day’). The legislation changes … Read More
Many of my clients run their own businesses, employing staff and looking for ways to grow their business. In this busy way of life, it’s easy to overlook or lose track of changes in the legislative systems that affect employers.Here are some important legislative changes will be affecting all employers and retirement fund members from … Read More
With Valentine’s Day around the corner I thought I would write a piece about the proper procurement of flowers. What to look for and how to get the best bouquet for your buck.Starting with the obvious, if you are buying flowers for someone special then it’s best to know either their favourite kind of flowers … Read More
Looking forward to another year of financial success means embracing monetary mistakes of the past. More importantly, you need to be honest with yourself about where you currently are and where you want to be.Here are another 5 Financial Reflections from 2015, for 2016:Don’t let yourself be pressured into buying designer goods Branding is such … Read More