The cost of living in South Africa is on the rise, and it’s easy to feel like maintaining your lifestyle is becoming increasingly difficult. However, there are numerous ways to cut costs without sacrificing the things you enjoy. It’s all about making smart, budget-friendly swaps. In this article, we’ll explore practical alternatives to expensive brands and habits, allowing you to k...
Read More..Value Added Tax (VAT) is an indirect tax on the consumption of goods and services in South Africa. It's designed to be paid mainly by the end consumer; for example, when you purchase groceries at a major retail chain, you’ll notice a VAT charge (of currently 15%, at the time of writing) on your till slip. How does VAT Work? When a VAT-registered business sells goods or services,...
Read More..Financial goals are the foundation of a healthy financial future. Whether you’re saving for a dream holiday, paying off debt, or building an emergency fund, having clear and actionable goals can make all the difference. However, simply stating your goals isn’t enough; they need to be thoughtfully crafted to ensure success. This is where the SMART framework comes in. SMART stands fo...
Read More..A bank statement is more than just a list of transactions; it’s a powerful tool for managing your finances, tracking spending, and spotting potential issues. Yet, many South Africans glance at their bank statements without fully understanding them. Decoding your bank statement doesn’t have to be complicated it just requires knowing what to look for and how to interpret it. What Is...
Read More..South Africans are feeling the pinch. With inflation driving up the cost of everything from milk to petrol, stretching your budget has never been more important. And while online shopping has its perks, it seems most of us (over 70% according to our recent survey!) still prefer the good old-fashioned in-store experience. But don't let that stop you from being a savvy shopper! Here...
Read More..The festive season in South Africa is a time for family, fun, and festivities. But with the rising cost of living and festive budgets hitting record highs (a whopping R6,832 on average!), it's easy to get carried away and overspend. Don't let the holiday cheer turn into a financial hangover! Here are some smart strategies to fund your holiday break without breaking the bank, ins...
Read More..As the festive season approaches, South Africans are preparing to spend big, with holiday budgets reaching record highs. According to our seventh annual Summer Spending Survey, a staggering R284 billion is expected to flow through the economy during this festive period, with the average festive budget among respondents averaging R6,832—up 20% from last year. But what’s driving this su...
Read More..Starting a family is a life-changing decision that brings joy, challenges, and a new set of financial responsibilities. Whether you’re planning to have your first child or expanding your family, being financially prepared can help ease the journey. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your finances are in order before taking the leap into parenthood. Assess Your Current Financial Sit...
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