Defining ‘financial education initiative’: key takeaways from new Conduct Standard
Senior legal adviser Lize de la Harpe unpacks the critical definitions, scope-limits, governance, and reporting obligations of the FSCA’s Conduct Standard.
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Under pressure: navigating the financial regulatory heat in 2025
Financial institutions that proactively embed governance, technology, and culture to meet evolving regulatory standards will not only avoid penalties but also strengthen credibility, build resilience, and drive long term value.
African Bank pays R500 000 fine for misleading marketing
The advert touted a personal loan as an ‘investment’, contravening Conduct Standard 3’s requirements for clear, fair, and factually correct advertising.
Financial institutions urged to prioritise cyber resilience as Joint Standard takes effect
With Joint Standard 2 on cybersecurity coming into force on 1 June, the Prudential Authority emphasises the need for financial institutions to bolster resilience, share intelligence, and prepare for inevitable cyberattacks.
FSCA probes complaint processes amid surprisingly low filing rates
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?
Finalised Conduct Standard for financial education released
In response to stakeholder concerns over increased costs, the FSCA says the requirements can be scaled to each institution’s size and complexity.
FSCA’s contingency plan: navigating COFI delays and licensing overhaul
The FSCA is preparing for the massive task of migrating about 12 500 financial services providers into the new COFI framework.
Deadline looms for input on FSCA’s financial education charter
The finalised Financial Education Commitment Charter is set to have a significant on impact the industry, requiring institutions to invest in targeted education programmes.
Retirement fund trustees face personal liability for cybersecurity non-compliance
With the Joint Standard on Cybersecurity and Cyber Resilience set to take effect in June, trustees could be held personally liable for losses due to data breaches.
Social media scam peddles fake RE5 exam certificates at a discount
Fraudulent RE5 exam certificates were recently advertised on Facebook, sparking a public warning from the FSCA about regulatory exam fraud.
Key regulatory and compliance developments: looking back at 2024 and what’s ahead in 2025
Billy Seyffert unpacks 2024’s major compliance changes, from the two-pot retirement system to cybersecurity standards, offering practical advice to stay ahead in 2025.
FSCA slaps R2.2 million in fines on FSPs for FICA violations
The FSCA highlights the role of RMCPs in safeguarding financial institutions and the financial system after compliance breaches by two FSPs.
Cybersecurity Joint Standard: commencement date confirmed
Joint Standard 2 of 2024 outlines the measures and best practices financial institutions must adopt to ensure robust cybersecurity.
Cybersecurity Joint Standard: Authorities announce likely commencement date
The FSCA and PA urge financial institutions to prepare for the standard’s implementation despite the provision for a transitional period.
