Tag: tax-free savings account

The repo rate, inflation and the Reserve Bank’s decisions all play a role in shaping our finances, from savings and loans to monthly payments. Understanding how these factors influence our financial well-being can help us make informed decisions and prepare for economic changes.

The rush to enrol at universities and colleges is just about over. But by December, about 60% of the students who enrolled this year will drop out. With the dropout rate will go the career dreams of many, hard-earned savings, and the realisation that student loans will now have to be repaid.

Black Friday has grown in prominence in South Africa over the last few years and has fundamentally changed the way South Africans shop. While average spending in November has historically been higher than in the first 10 months of the year, it was always well below the traditional festive season trading numbers recorded in December.

High interest rates increase the income opportunity of one’s savings and investments. In a volatile economic landscape, the importance of prudent financial planning and savvy saving strategies becomes more critical than ever. When inflation is high, the value of money seems to shift like sand beneath our feet, with a knock-on effect on interest rates and the cost of living.

We have all heard the phrase: “It’s not about timing the market, but time in the market.” One of the most important lessons parents can teach their children is the value of money – how to really understand the dynamics around investing and how to make money work for them.

On the back of COVID-19, and the widespread financial difficulties that many people experienced as a result of two years of lockdowns, some South African employees opted to resign from their jobs in order to access their retirement savings. 

Money matters and finances continue to be a widely talked about subject. The pandemic has not only been onerous and taxing on everyone’s lives, but it has also created undue financial pressure on households globally. Instead of being overwhelmed by unnecessary expenses this year; look at ways or areas where you can save and invest your money. Unplanned finances can push people towards unnecessary short-term debt, which should be avoided at all costs.

As the year unwinds and we head into the holiday season, I know what you are thinking. Now is the time to spend and spoil yourself for a year of hard work - however this time of the year gives you a chance to take a moment and think about savings and ways you can invest your hard-earned money.