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The FSCA warns the public about scammers impersonating Ava Trade on Facebook, using names Van Vuuren and Calitz. These individuals are not authorized to offer financial services. Beware of red flags like unrealistic returns, urgent payment requests, and vague information. Verify providers with FSCA and report suspicious activity.

You can read the FSCA's full warning here.

Editor's Thoughts.

I had the privilege of attending yesterday’s GEPF-GIBS dialogue where the GEPF, together with a panel of industry leaders, reminded us that pensions are not just about retirement - they are about nation building too. It’s a pity that this important message lands differently right now, with the PIC under the microscope and governance questions dominating the headlines.

The benefits of patient capital and infrastructure (roads, energy, housing and clinics) are not side projects; they are exactly the kind of long term assets that can support growth, create jobs and strengthen retirement outcomes at the same time. And the intention is sincere.

The uncomfortable but important question: can South Africa’s pension capital be both well governed and boldly impactful?

Governance, particularly in a COFI era, is under the spotlight. What does that look like when we’re talking about contributions? (Today’s independent contributor). Watching the PIC story unfold really punches me in the gut around the trust dialogue. We know from the FSCA’s Complaints Management Report (February 2025) that South Africans are disillusioned and don’t trust the financial system, with 67% of complainants regretting their decision to take up financial product/services. All the fine print doesn’t help either (NFO).

And it’s in this context we must consider a central unclaimed benefits fund. Or must we? And who will be investing those assets? Register here for tomorrow’s webinar where we will be discussing this exact topic, with the FSCA, National Treasury and industry role players at 9am.

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