Denise Gabriels, Lead Ombud of the Life Insurance Division of the NFO, says a Severe Illness Benefit claim is triggered by the actual onset of the illness, not the later medical confirmation, reinforcing that insurers cannot rely solely on technical policy timing to reject valid claims.

Joao Frasco, Chief Investment Officer at INN8 Invest, says increasing market volatility and shifting investment dynamics are forcing advisers to adopt more disciplined, outcome-focused portfolio strategies, while deeper collaboration with discretionary fund managers is becoming essential to delivering consistent client outcomes.

The transition to COFI is not merely a compliance exercise but a deeper shift toward trust-centred, client-focused financial planning, requiring firms to strengthen culture, governance, leadership and client experience through intentional, long-term transformation.

Mareli Mans, Head of FundsAtWork & GI Product & Pricing at Momentum Corporate, says Momentum Corporate’s decision to remove traditional insurance ceilings for healthy HIV-positive employees reflects a modern, wellness-based approach that aligns underwriting with current medical realities and promotes greater financial inclusion.

Bertie Nel, Head of Financial Planning and Advice at Momentum, says South Africans should view their monthly income not just as a means of survival, but as the foundation for building long-term wealth through disciplined saving, investing and financial protection.

Senton Pillay, Provincial Head at Momentum Financial Planning, unpacks the mounting financial pressure facing households and why inflation alone no longer tells the full story.