Smart About Money

A lot happened in the world and in financial markets in 2024. But some things were constant - like sticking to timeless investment principles such as: taking risk to invest for growth; riding out volatility in the markets and diversifying across asset classes. Patient investors who followed these guidelines, were rewarded again this past year. #smartaboutmoney #financialeducation #investment #investing

In the start-up years, new business owners have a lot to learn about the funding they need to get to scale, being solopreneurs and how falling ill is a business risk. Three South Africans who recently launched their own micro-businesses or side hustles shared their personal stories about the lessons from 2024. Their experiences have learnings for anyone who plans to strike out on their own. #smartaboutmoney #financialeducation #smallbiz #smallbusinessownerlife Nicola Mawson https://lnkd.in/dG6Ccifr

The two-pot system creates the impression that your retirement pot contains everything you’re saving for retirement - but that’s not the case. In reality, members often need the money from both pots to secure a reasonable pension. In this video, we unpack: 👉 How your retirement savings are intended to support a targeted pension, and 👉 Why it's essential to rethink how you use your money in your savings pot. Watch now to get a better understanding of your retirement planning. Share this video with your clients and colleagues. #SmartAboutMoney #financialeducation #TwoPotSystem #RetirementPlanning

Of all the insurance policies you may own, the terms and conditions of disability and severe illness policies are likely to be the most difficult for consumers to understand. Insurers argue that complexity is necessary because benefits are only paid for a narrow range of events. When insurers don’t define the terms well, the ombud and judges do give consumers the benefit of any doubt about when claims will be paid, our latest article explains (https://lnkd.in/dQmGW5bf). Be sure your consumers are well-informed about their policy terms and understand how they work. Share our insurance explainer articles (https://lnkd.in/d7qYSUxn). #smartaboutmoney #financialeducation #insurance #financialsupport #financialprotection #planright

If above-inflation increases in your medical contributions are not sustainable, opting for a network medical scheme may be your answer. Your contributions can be significantly reduced…BUT the key to not swopping lower contributions for more out-of-pocket payments lies in understanding and adhering to the rules. From verifying service providers to navigating co-payments and coverage limits, you need to make informed decisions if you want to avoid unexpected expenses. If you are a professional managing family or personal healthcare cover share this post to help others make smarter, more cost-effective choices! #smartaboutmoney #financialeducation #healthcare #hcsmSA

The holidays are a time to celebrate, but January often brings the reality of stretched finances. If you, or those you care for, want to break the cycle, take some tips from financial planner Johann Rossouw. In his latest article, he shares tips, like budgeting and rebuilding savings, to recover from the "financial hangover" and set a stronger foundation for 2025. Johann Rossouw CIPM, CFP® #SmartAboutMoney #financialeducation #FinancialWellness #FinancialPlanning

December is when South Africans' spending tends to peak, leading to financial strain in the new year for those without a plan to cover the additional costs. Take control now: plan expenses carefully, manage emotional spending, and set yourself up for a confident start to 2025. Read and share our latest article.  #smartaboutmoney #financialeducation #moneymanagement

December is when South Africans' spending tends to peak, leading to financial strain in the new year for those without a plan to cover the additional costs. Take control now: plan expenses carefully, manage emotional spending, and set yourself up for a confident start to 2025. Read and share our latest article.  #smartaboutmoney #financialeducation #moneymanagement

The NHI Act is in place and regulations are expected shortly. It is time to think about how to implement the policy with the least resistance. Actuaries presenting at the recent Actuarial Society of South Africa conference suggest implementing an NHI tax for people with means currently using the public sector – often without paying – or anti-selecting against medical schemes. Our latest article unpacks what this proposal could achieve to get the public and private sector closer together on the road to NHI. #smartaboutmoney #financialeducation #healthcare

Financial stress can have a significant impact on your mental and physical health. That’s why we’ve created a concise video outlining 10 actionable steps to help you regain control of your finances and set yourself up for success. 🎥 Watch the video and share it with anyone in your network who could benefit. https://lnkd.in/dTvkV9dV #smartaboutmoney #financialeducation #financialplanning #moneymanagment