
South Africa’s retirement system has assets, but not enough reach
According to the 2026 Marsh CFA Institute Global Pension Index, South Africa ranks 51st out of 55 retirement systems.

According to the 2026 Marsh CFA Institute Global Pension Index, South Africa ranks 51st out of 55 retirement systems.

The number of potential workers for every older person in more developed regions is projected to fall from 4.3 to 2.7 over the next 30 years.

Even after fully depleting the savings component each year, a hypothetical member fares better in Alexforbes’ model than under its previous-system scenario.

Strong retail flows, rising adviser numbers, and expanding support capabilities suggest the group’s push to win over IFAs is beginning to deliver measurable results.

While billions have been withdrawn through the two-pot system, Alexforbes says more members are remaining connected to retirement funds long after leaving their employers.

Despite a decline in headline earnings, Alexforbes delivered strong underlying growth, with record assets, rising retail inflows, and expanding umbrella fund assets.

Data from Alexforbes and Sanlam suggests more members are preserving retirement savings, though it is too soon to know whether the shift will last.

Twenty years of industry data show that medical schemes have become increasingly dependent on scale, investment returns, and strong reserves to remain sustainable.

COFI’s outcomes-based framework may push governance responsibility beyond trustees and require umbrella funds to prove that members are better off.

Alexforbes’ latest survey shows robust 2025 performance but highlights weaker 10-year returns and rising dispersion in equity returns.

Early disclosure to a financial adviser can help secure liquidity, reduce delays, and spare families unnecessary administrative stress.

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.

Sasfin and Sygnia were the runners-up.

South Africa’s removal from the EU’s high-risk list eases regulatory friction, but economists caution that rebuilding investor confidence will be gradual.

Alexforbes’ new digital storybook helps children to build confidence in saving, planning, and making smart financial choices.

The three-year countdown starts only when SARS formally recognises you as a non-resident – a difference of months can affect access and tax outcomes.

The industry is moving beyond sales models towards relationship-led, purpose-driven engagement built on trust, transparency, and technology.