Energy shock shifts rate outlook and raises stagflation risk
A Middle East-driven energy surge is reshaping inflation, interest rate expectations, and portfolio positioning, with direct implications for South Africa.
Author: Moonstone Information Refinery
FSCA’s financial education Conduct Standard comes into force
With the transition period now over, financial institutions that offer education initiatives must align with the FSCA’s requirements on governance, evaluation, and accountability.
Emerging car brands gain ground – but risk still drives insurance costs
Interest in newer vehicle brands is rising among South African buyers, but theft trends and repair costs continue to shape premiums and the real cost of ownership.
SCA orders RAF to pay R92m to Newnet, sets out compliance steps
The Supreme Court of Appeal orders the Fund to settle R92 million in judgment debt to Newnet and comply with payment and adjudication requirements.
Insurance sector scales up mentorship programme to tackle skills gaps
The third phase of the Retiree Repurposing Programme expands efforts to address technical skills shortages through structured mentorship and knowledge transfer.
Financial inclusion high, financial health low: insurers face outcomes test
With only 16% of South Africans financially healthy, insurers are being pushed to prove that products deliver real value when customers need them most.
Industry outlines priorities to address liquidity and access in SA capital markets
Listings reform, settlement changes, retail participation, and infrastructure upgrades feature as ways to strengthen market depth and competitiveness.
CDH flags compliance risks in replacement policy advice
The law firm says recent FAIS Ombud and Tribunal decisions highlight disclosure, suitability, and record-keeping failures in replacement policy cases.
Debarment overturned after Tribunal criticises ‘desktop’ investigation
A failure to verify a client’s income amounted at most to negligence, but the evidence did not justify debarment for dishonesty.
Struggling with debt? Options before repossession begins
The NFO says consumers can limit costs by acting early through voluntary termination, private sale, or Sell Assist programmes.
Insurers must report number of personal lines claims in 2025
The FSCA says the information helps it to monitor the extent to which insurers are delivering fair outcomes for consumers.
SARS raids mark overdue escalation in illicit economy crackdown
Search-and-seizure operations targeting customs corruption mark a move from policy to enforcement, as SARS steps up efforts against illicit trade draining billions from the fiscus.
Two-pot withdrawals surge as repeat claims reshape savings behaviour
Withdrawal activity has spiked again at the start of the new tax year, with data showing repeat claims are becoming entrenched and raising concerns about long-term retirement outcomes.
Living benefits overtake death claims as Discovery Life payouts shift
Discovery Life’s 2025 statistics show 65% of payouts go to living benefits – advisers must rethink risk, product design, and client conversations.
Old Mutual earnings rise as insurance, investments and Africa drive results
Results from operations rose 13% to R9.8bn as insurance profitability improved and investments crossed R1 trillion in assets under management.
Old Mutual announces chair succession ahead of Manuel’s retirement
Roger Jardine, who joined the Old Mutual board in September 2025, is set to take over as chairman after the June AGM.
Gambling surge strains retirement savings and prompts tax response
Old Mutual findings and industry commentary show gambling is reshaping spending, eroding savings, and drawing policy attention, with implications for employers and advisers.
