Editor's Thoughts.

The who’s who of the South African retirement and investment industry has arrived at Sun City for this year’s BATSETA Winter Conference. And from today, trustees, principal officers, service providers and policymakers will discuss and deliberate pension capital’s role in growth, governance, COFI and member outcomes under the theme: “C°‑Africa: The Power of One Degree”. If you can’t be here, feel free to follow EBnet on socials and I’ll keep you updated from the sessions. Plus I will be publishing articles on each day’s most important conversations.

And with sublime timing, the Q2 issue of Pensions World SA dropped on Friday, with it’s special feature focusing on private markets, plus a new addition spotlight supplement in collaboration with SAVCA. Yesterday I took a drive through the Pilanesburg game reserve before conference registration opened, and reflecting quietly next to a grazing rhino reminded me that this country and this continent are worth investing in.

It’s in this context that I read Bowmans’ overview of the new IoDSA/JSE “fit and proper” due diligence guide. Whilst this refers specifically to company directors, my (always humble) opinion is that it’s applicable to anyone who sits around a board table – perhaps even more so to those who govern other peoples’ money. And Just SA’s 2026 retirement insights survey shows a marked drop in confidence amongst retirees that their money will last as long as they do.

If we’re all going to spend the time and resources to gather together, let’s make this time count towards better outcomes for the South Africans we serve. And let’s engage meaningfully and intentionally to move the dial, rather than gamble with our futures.

Upcoming Events.

Most Recent Reads.

Quick Links.