Editor's Thoughts.

Here’s a thought: Do we make money more complicated than it needs to be for our clients and our retirement fund members? I’m not suggesting that the decisions are always easy, but in my (always) humble opinion, we sometimes lose sight of what matters: understanding people, asking questions and working towards a goal.

Today’s episode of Industry Insights with Cebile Magongo from FNB, really challenged my long held belief that South Africans are apathetic when it comes to their savings. Cebile and I explore how stokvels turn small contributions and shared goals into real progress, with digital banking making group saving easier to manage. Perhaps people are willing to save … just not in the products we so cleverly design, and legislate, and manage for them?

Financial Planning Standards Board CEO Dante De Gori asks what financial planners offer when AI can deliver technical answers in seconds. His answer takes us back to the person behind the plan: their fears, circumstances and decisions that need more than a calculation. Most often, people need two things: 1. Confidence that the plan will work, and 2. Accountability to someone.

And with December approaching, the Employement Law team from Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr tackles a question worth settling before making those festive plans: is that year-end bonus guaranteed, or discretionary? Knowing the difference matters. And before getting too excited about the extra money, Momentum’s Thinus Marais invites us to look beyond the excitement of a bonus (or two-pot withdrawal). More money coming in doesn’t necessarily mean we’re better off when it’s gone.

Different conversations, one thread: clarity, commitment and accountability can take us further than complexity.

Sometimes (always), progress starts with the basics.

Upcoming Events.

Most Recent Reads.

Quick Links.