Hannes Van Den Berg, CEO of Momentum Advice, warns that rising fuel prices from global conflict will increase household costs and inflation. He advises consumers to protect essential cover like insurance and medical aid, and manage budgets carefully to maintain long-term financial resilience.

Abdul Vally, CEO of Coface South Africa, says despite a slight decline in liquidations, businesses remain under pressure from weak demand and high costs. He emphasises that proactive credit risk management is critical to protecting cash flow and improving resilience in uncertain economic conditions.

Ronald King, Head of Public Policy & Regulatory Affairs at PSG Financial Services, warns that expanding access to retirement funds may provide short-term relief but risks undermining long-term savings discipline, potentially worsening South Africa’s retirement crisis by reducing future retirement capital and encouraging harmful withdrawal behaviours.

Kabelo Makeke, Head of Personal and Private Banking at Standard Bank South Africa, rejected allegations of misconduct relating to a historic vehicle finance case, stating they are false and baseless. He reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to ethical practices, transparency, and defending its reputation against misinformation.

Escalating US-Iran tensions are driving higher fuel costs, worsening financial strain for South Africans. Rising stress is impacting employee productivity and retention, highlighting the need for workplace financial wellness programmes to improve financial literacy, resilience, and overall workforce performance.

Teaching children financial discipline is essential for long-term success. By instilling habits like saving, delayed gratification, and understanding money early, parents can build strong financial “defence,” empowering the next generation to manage, grow, and protect their wealth confidently.