What six banking disputes reveal about how the ombud thinks
The NFO’s 2025 annual report offers a glimpse into the disputes that reach the banking ombud – and the lessons they hold.
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Old Mutual sees strong Q1 as life sales rise and OM Bank customers jump
New life sales rose 28% in the quarter to March, while stronger investment inflows and a better new business margin supported a broadly positive update.
Sanlam partnership helps Ninety One grow to record AUM
The completed transaction added scale, while a recovery in client demand pushed the asset manager back into net positive flows after last year’s outflows.
Why are so few affluent investors using offshore platforms?
Allan Gray’s data finds that advisers making heavier use of offshore solutions often have higher client balances and stronger inflows.
Crypto payment-type activity may fall under FAIS, say regulators
Crypto assets fall outside the NPS Act, but intermediary-led payment-type activity involving crypto may still trigger a licensing requirement.
CPD deadline days away: MBSE highlights immediate-access course options
Professionals still have time to complete any outstanding hours, but they should avoid leaving enrolment to the weekend.
NCR signals tougher affordability enforcement as vehicle finance risks mount
Lenders and dealers should dig deeper into living costs, dependants, and insurance obligations to avoid stretching consumers beyond their means.
COFI could redraw the lines of accountability in umbrella funds
COFI’s outcomes-based framework may push governance responsibility beyond trustees and require umbrella funds to prove that members are better off.
Clearer communication can prevent many motor insurance disputes
The NFO says proactive disclosure, better underwriting conversations, and stronger intermediary oversight will benefit customers and insurers alike.
Running out of time for CPD? MBSE says use the hours you already have
Advisers can reduce last-minute pressure by breaking the remaining hours into shorter, more manageable sessions instead of cramming courses into a final rush.
High Court warning to banks over rushed home auction valuations
The judgment strengthens constitutional protections for homeowners by rejecting speculative ‘drive-by’ property valuations used in foreclosure proceedings.
Sanlam pivots towards partnerships as active management model shifts
The group says the industry is moving towards customised solutions, prompting it to hand active management to Ninety One and focus on alternatives, distribution, and emerging markets.
Santam names head for new India reinsurance business
The GIFT City operation, together with the Lloyd’s syndicate and Avatar acquisition, is part of the group’s move to broaden its risk base and underwriting capabilities.
State Street and Ninety One partner in active ETF push
The tie-up will begin with global equity and emerging market ETFs and is designed to widen access to active strategies across international markets.
Discovery Bank enters next phase of ‘super bank’ strategy
The bank says its AI-driven banking and fraud prevention systems have reduced fraud on flagged transactions by 85%.
Naked’s ChatGPT app signals where insurance distribution may be heading
The insurtech says the new app is a step towards a future where AI assistants could help consumers to manage and automate parts of their insurance decisions.
Still short on CPD hours? MBSE suggests ready-made combinations
MBSE’s CPD combinations help advisers and FSPs to complete their annual requirements while focusing on ethics, conduct, communication, and regulatory readiness.
