Tag: WealthManagement

From ceasefires to blockades, the world continues to feel increasingly unpredictable. Headlines remain dominated by conflict in the Middle East, rising geopolitical tension and markets reacting in real time. When the world feels uncertain, people naturally ask one question: Should I stay, or should I go?

Our philosophy has not changed; the environment in which we execute it has. For over two decades, our investment philosophy has been grounded in a simple principle. High-quality companies that can reliably grow dividends tend to deliver more predictable long-term outcomes. This principle remains the foundation of how we invest. However, the environment in which we apply this philosophy has changed.

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.

Despite the private capital industry’s proven track record, many investors still view Private Equity (PE) and Venture Capital (VC) as inherently risky investments. However, this perception does not fully reflect how private capital markets actually function. This conversation around risk in private capital markets is long overdue for reframing. Risk in private capital markets differs fundamentally from that experienced in public markets.

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.

Over the course of my career - as a gold and bond trader, a portfolio manager running large global multi-asset and solutions portfolios - I’ve often been asked: What lessons have you learned?

The Conduct of Financial Institutions (COFI) Bill will redefine professionalism in South African financial advice, and advisers who adapt early will lead the field. South Africa’s financial advice sector is entering a decisive new era. The COFI Bill, expected to take effect in 2026, will redefine what quality advice means and how it must be proven.

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.

Many people tend to default to investing in the JSE because they are familiar with these listed companies. However, this limits the diversification benefits that come from investing in offshore shares. Diversification across economies, political jurisdictions and asset classes is achieved when a portion of total assets is invested offshore.

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.