High Court rules on SARS’s R5.3bn claim against Sasfin Bank
The judgment dismissed parts of Sasfin’s exceptions and left SARS’s statutory claim under the Financial Sector Regulation Act to proceed.
Industry News
Schools’ exit VAT liability postponed for a year
VAT-registered schools will have to deregister from 1 January 2026, but the deemed output VAT on retained assets will only be payable the following year.
SARB’s new exchange control rules draw criticism
The Institute for International Tax and Finance says the latest exchange control changes could discourage foreign investors and add red tape for non-residents.
More taxpayers will be caught by lower ringfencing threshold
The threshold for ringfencing assessed losses from ‘suspect’ or ‘hobby-like’ trades will be reduced from the 45% marginal rate to 39%.
NDCA pushes for fit and proper requirements for debt counsellors
The Association’s proposal will embed COFI’s principles and the TCF outcomes into debt-counselling practice.
Bonitas commits to co-operating with CMS investigation
After concluding its section 43 inquiry into Bonitas, the CMS has determined that the allegations merit a further forensic investigation.
Treasury withdraws plan to tax foreign pensions, pledges wider consultation
Although the amendment will not proceed, Treasury remains concerned about double non-taxation and will re-engage with the industry to find a balanced approach.
Adjudicator’s rulings highlight ongoing confusion over two-pot withdrawals
The retirement funds correctly refused multiple savings component withdrawals and early access to vested benefits.
Surge in mental-health diagnoses – targeted programmes show results
Discovery Health data shows a sharp rise in mental-health conditions, particularly among young adults, yet structured programmes are helping members to achieve measurable improvements in well-being.
New Pension Funds Adjudicator appointed as Lukhaimane steps down
Lebogang Mogashoa takes office in December for a three-year term.
FSCA issues multiple warnings amid rise in year-end fraud attempts
As festive spending ramps up, the FSCA has issued a string of warnings about impersonators and unauthorised entities preying on consumers.
SARS launches expedited tax-debt compromise process
SARS will negotiate compromises only where liability is undisputed and both parties agree the taxpayer cannot pay in full.
SASRIA can absorb a catastrophe claim of up to R20bn
The state-owned insurer says it is on track to reach R30bn in reserves by 2029 – but emerging risks could still put its resilience to the test.
Medihelp to appeal contempt judgment in Elaprase case
Medihelp says it will challenge the judgment while the cost of Elaprase awaits a final decision by the CMS Appeal Board.
Santam starts onboarding farmers under SA’s first parametric insurance licence
Parametric insurance offers smallholder farmers a lifeline against climate shocks, with payouts triggered by predefined weather events rather than traditional claims processes.
FST upholds withholding of R2.16m benefit amid Shoprite fraud case
The decision makes clear the requirements for a lawful withholding: a prima facie case of dishonesty and demonstrable, timely steps by the employer to recover losses.
Sanlam’s AI Coach expands into healthcare
Sanlam Studios’ upgraded AI Coach now offers guidance on medical aid, primary care and gap cover.
