Tag: FinancialPlanning

Retirement planning is often framed as a question of how much you save. Most people contribute to a Maximising. However, very few understand how to use it strategically. For many investors, retirement annuities function as a routine savings vehicle. People contribute consistently without considering the structural role these products play in a broader wealth strategy.

There is a common misconception that having insurance guarantees a successful claim. However, this belief often leads to rejected insurance claims. After all, policyholders pay premiums every month. They expect the policy to respond when something goes wrong.

On 6 January 2026, the Pretoria High Court delivered judgment in a case concerning an insurance living annuity. The matter involved competing beneficiary nominations made shortly before the deceased’s death. Importantly, it highlights the risks associated with beneficiary disputes in living annuities.

With a catastrophic, record-setting fuel increase on 1 April 2026, South Africans face significant pressure. In fact, many households are already bracing for the record fuel hike. This increase will extend far beyond the forecourt.

Our analysis of cancer-related gap claims we paid between 2020 and 2024 shows a staggering increase. The increase relates to gap claim volumes for initial cancer diagnosis, treatment co-payments and shortfalls. This cancer gap claims surge reflects growing pressure on healthcare funding. We operate as a gap cover provider, and GENRIC Insurance Company Limited underwrites the business.

Geopolitics often feels distant. Many people see it as something that happens far away, involving borders or disputes over natural resources. These events usually take place on the other side of the world. However, the reality is far more personal for the average South African household. This is precisely why geopolitics matters to your pocket.

The war in Iran, particularly supply blockages through the Strait of Hormuz, has pushed global oil prices sharply higher. Before the conflict began, oil traded at around $68 per barrel. It now sits near $105 per barrel. This shift represents an increase of about 54%. At the same time, the South African currency has weakened.

Understanding the difference between financial advice and holistic wealth guidance is essential for anyone planning their long-term financial future. The discussion in the video explores a common misconception in the financial services industry: many people assume that a professional managing their investments automatically provides comprehensive wealth advice. However, the conversation highlights that this is not always the case.

The 2026 national budget did not introduce significant headline tax increases. However, the 2026 national budget implemented structural threshold adjustments that materially affect succession planning. These adjustments also affect retirement modelling, estate liquidity analysis and business exit calculations for Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) owners.

For at least three decades, South Africa’s financial services industry has raised the alarm about the urgent need to increase consumer savings. Yet little has changed. The elephant in the room is clear. Unless we meaningfully close the gap between product availability and true independent advice, this will not change.