
FAIS Ombud lauds large FSPs for settling more disputes directly with consumers
New enquiries soared in 2024/25, signalling higher public awareness; yet the number of cases opened fell as many matters were settled without the Ombud’s involvement.

New enquiries soared in 2024/25, signalling higher public awareness; yet the number of cases opened fell as many matters were settled without the Ombud’s involvement.

The FSCA revoked Luvuyo’s licence in August after a string of determinations found the firm failed to pay claims and operated without an underwriter.

The proposed amendments will also see increases in the Tribunal levy and the FAIS Ombud’s charge per KI/representative.

Advocate John Simpson publishes his Office’s draft budget for public comment.

The funeral provider has faced repeated determinations this year after failing to settle valid claims.

After the High Court remitted the matter, a new Tribunal panel deemed the challenge ‘frivolous and vexatious’.

Determination says a ‘reasonable broker’ would supplement a bulk email with an email or phone call to ensure the client is aware of new conditions.

Luvuyo Burial and Consulting did not pay the claims in full even after the Ombud’s Office intervened.

The beneficiaries waited months to be paid their funeral policy benefits, but they received only partial pay-outs despite undertakings to the contrary.

The material change from a co-policyholder to a sole policyholder should have alerted the FSP of the need to review the policy.

A survey shows that only 8% of consumers lodged complaints with financial institutions between 2021 and 2023. Does this figure reflect genuine satisfaction or signal barriers in the complaint process?

An FSP failed to ensure that a client was made aware of the implications of modifying his policy, resulting in an insurance claim denial.

A complaint over a claim for stolen jewellery prompts the FAIS Ombud to emphasise the importance of maintaining a proper record of advice.

The FAIS Ombud found that Luvuyo Burial and Consulting failed to comply with the Policyholder Protection Rules.

Lebohang Funeral Home left policyholders exposed by failing to secure underwriting, misleading clients about their coverage, and refusing to pay a valid funeral claim.

The FAIS Ombud warns that failing to adhere to warranty clauses – such as storing jewellery in a safe when not worn – can significantly reduce claim payouts.

The Tribunal’s decision underscores that financial advisers’ duties are limited to the specific terms of their engagement.