R7.7m fine stands as FIC Appeal Board rules against law firm
The firm of attorneys said its non-compliance was not intentional and was the result of a lack of awareness.
Compliance and Legislation
Corporate taxpayers sceptical of SARS’s service delivery gains
Half of corporate taxpayers in PwC’s latest survey express dissatisfaction with SARS’s service improvements. Only 3% report a positive shift, while audit delays and penalty disputes remain a major pain point.
Dispute over cancelled policy: FST orders FAIS Ombud to reconsider decision
The Tribunal’s decision underscores that financial advisers’ duties are limited to the specific terms of their engagement.
Temporary RE exemption for crypto FSPs extended
The Authority gives crypto asset service providers a seven-month reprieve.
FSCA and PA to revamp funeral insurance regulations – call for stakeholder input
Inputs provided during workshops in 2025 will guide the formulation of ‘a pragmatic and balanced approach’ to the regulation and supervision of funeral insurance.
How the COFI Bill will affect the retirement industry
The ‘imminent’ COFI Bill will introduce the licensing of retirement funds (including public sector funds), stricter board member standards, and enhanced oversight of contributing employers.
FAIS Ombud erred in dismissing complaint against insurance broker, says Tribunal
The Ombud failed to investigate key facts around the broker’s alleged negligence in communicating an essential policy requirement.
Accountable institutions given final deadline for DPI
Following widespread challenges with its e-portal, the FSCA has re-opened submissions for its Directive to Provide Information.
FSCA fines and debars retirement fund administrator’s directors
Fund members lost at least R470m after N-e-FG’s high-risk investments went south in 2021. Now, two of its directors have been fined R30m each.
Online trader fined R1 million and debarred for 12 years
The Authority’s investigation found that most of Lehumo Securities’ client funds were not invested, and returns were paid out from the funds collected.
Uncloaking the mysteries of financial sector penalties
The huge penalties imposed by the FSCA and the Prudential Authority raise questions about the clarity and consistency of the factors influencing these fines.
Retirement savings not immune to SARS tax collection orders, court rules
SARS can appoint third parties to deduct tax debts directly from retirement funds, overriding the protections under the Pension Funds Act.
FSCA announces proposed levy increase for 2025/26
The increase is below the 6% CPI-related increase permitted by the Levies Act.
Amendment to ADR process may resolve tax disputes faster
Taxpayers may soon have a faster, cost-effective way to resolve disputes with SARS through alternative dispute resolution at the objection phase.
High Court rules against financial firm in restraint of trade dispute
The FSP failed to prove the existence of a protectable or that the restraint had been breached.
Should all tokens be equal in the crypto market?
As the regulatory framework develops, many questions remain – particularly around whether all tokens, from fungible coins to unique NFTs, will be regulated the same way.
Does ‘sitting on the mattress’ matter? Ombud rules on insurance policy dispute
The NFO decided that failing to follow customary mourning rituals did not prevent the recognition of a customary marriage, awarding the claim based on fairness.
