
FAIS Ombud flags millions lost in online CFD trading
The FAIS Ombud secured R39.58 million in settlements and awards for consumers in 2025/26, up 24.66% year on year.

The FAIS Ombud secured R39.58 million in settlements and awards for consumers in 2025/26, up 24.66% year on year.

Section 13A complaints accounted for more than 61% of cases investigated and closed in 2025/26, while the OPFA’s carry-over of unresolved matters increased.

Ubuqhetseba bebhanki yedijithali, amabango omngcwabo angavunywanga, kunye neengxabano zeinshorensi malunga nokungabandakanywa kunye nokugcinwa kwempahla zivele njengezona ndawo ziphambili zoxinzelelo ngo-2025.

The CMS’s 2025/26 annual report also highlights progress on a costed primary healthcare benefits package and research into linking administrator fees to outcomes.

Higher-risk institutions were found wanting on RMCPs, customer due diligence, registration requirements, and targeted financial sanctions screening.

DHMS improved its solvency, surplus and principal membership, but an ageing risk pool, fewer beneficiaries, and a claims-system error tempered the year’s progress.

The NFO’s Credit Division recorded a 58% jump in complaints during 2025, while recoveries for consumers more than tripled and favourable outcomes outpaced every other division.

The NFO’s case studies show how disputes over evidence, process failures, and consumer rights can escalate into costly battles between credit providers and customers.

The division recorded more formal investigations in 2025, but improved turnaround times and secured almost R300 million for complainants.

Digital-banking scams, rejected funeral claims, and insurance disputes over exclusions and maintenance emerged as key pressure points in 2025.

The report details the Panel’s mandate, membership, and engagement with the regulator since its establishment in 2023.

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.

Requiring SARS to provide written reasons when it rejects the OTO’s recommendations has resulted in an increase in the resolution of complaints.

The Council for Medical Schemes’ latest annual report shows a decline in registered complaints – continuing a three-year downward trajectory.

Two new CMS studies highlight the growing strain of chronic diseases and soaring out-of-pocket healthcare costs.

Outgoing Adjudicator Muvhango Lukhaimane says the system has laid bare long-standing non-compliance with section 13A of the Pension Funds Act.

Expanding the Office’s mandate to include disputes involving advice will enhance member protection, but there are concerns over jurisdictional overlaps and operational costs.