Tag: FinancialPlanning

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.

With the end of the 2025/2026 tax year fast approaching, South Africans have a narrowing window to make financial decisions that can meaningfully improve their savings outcomes. Acting before the tax year closes can deliver immediate tax benefits and lasting financial advantages. February ranks among the most important months on the financial calendar.

Estate planning and retirement planning rarely appear in the same discussion. This separation often obscures the importance of retirement and estate planning as a connected process. This is because they focus on different life stages. People often treat them as separate aspects of financial planning. However, it remains important to consider your retirement funds when constructing your estate plan.

As we step into 2026, there is no better time for taxpayers to gain clarity on their standing with the South African Revenue Service (SARS). Many individuals assume their tax affairs are in perfect order. However, as the saying goes, assumption is the mother of all mistakes. When dealing with SARS, that mistake can become costly.

More people are starting to save for retirement in their twenties, however, many still feel financially unprepared for the future. According to our 2025 Retirement Insights Survey, the average starting age for retirement saving is 27.

Today’s investment landscape is increasingly complex for South African investors. Heightened market volatility and political uncertainty make portfolio management more challenging. Offshore investing remains a critically relevant strategy for preserving and growing wealth while managing risk. Diversifying offshore is not just a luxury; it has become a necessary consideration for prudent investors.