Economists are not positive about the growth of investments this year as they foresee a tighter budgetary approach from investors who are feeling the pinch of rising costs. This means that all of us should be doing whatever we can to engage with our monthly spending plans and pull back on unnecessary costs. With that … Read More
For those of you who have travelled on a tube in London, you’ll know the familiar sound of the lady saying “Mind the gap.” as you step on and off your tube. In fact, even if you haven’t travelled to the Big Smoke, you’ve probably heard about it. However, when people buy health cover they’re … Read More
Fluctuations in the markets are one of their defining characteristics. Various factors contribute to the vicissitudes of investor behaviour, both locally and globally, and many of these are psychological factors that are strongly influenced by perceptions – and an interest rate hike will surely shake the boat. It’s always good to know how your investment … Read More
What goes up must come down… except for the fuel price! A little over a week into the new month and all drivers are already feeling the weight of the escalating petrol and diesel prices. Reaching record heights last week, petrol pumps are now set at over R14 per litre (R13.95 at the coast), and … Read More
Last week Pravin Gordhan, Finance Minister to President Jacob Zuma, delivered his final budget speech for the current administration. Financial gurus, economists, financial planners and all those money-astute, sat rapt and listened with educated ears to the updated blueprints for South Africa’s future. This blog is not written with them in mind, but rather for … Read More
With only a few days left in the tax year, you have just enough time to make a prudent financial decision that may save you a few thousand rand on your next tax return, and earn you considerably more than that at retirement! It’s common practice amongst those astute in minimising their tax deficits and … Read More
If you were to take a quick poll from your peers of what they fear the most, you’re most likely to receive answers like snakes, flying, thunderstorms (non-Highveld-people…), needles, the dark and, if they’re really honest, the dentist! For the most part these fears originate around our mortality and anything that threatens our health. Which … Read More
This question crosses the minds of most people, just moments before they meet up for coffee with their financial adviser – and it’s a good question! This question can be answered in so many ways… so let’s answer it with a few questions: Would you service your own car? Would you diagnose yourself if you … Read More
Every day I sit with potential investors who are shopping around for the “best” rate. The “best” rate doesn’t exist. It is a customised rate based on your needs, requirements, risk appetite, investment term, access to capital and other factors including tax. What I can tell you is that if the rate you obtain … Read More
MONEY DOESN’T GROW ON TREES When last did you hear this saying? Probably when you were a child, a few decades ago…This expression has slowly been silenced by the loud announcements in our consumer driven society. All the messages that are pumped through the media and social networks tell us to consume; not to save … Read More