Tony van Niekerk comments on the Ombud for Financial Services' comparison of financial advisers to used car salesmen, he argues that it undermines their professionalism. He highlights the rigorous training and oversight advisers undergo and warns against relying on the internet for financial advice.

As the global business environment evolves, accounting and finance professionals are increasingly being challenged to redefine their roles and contributions. In the past, the responsibilities of these professionals were well-defined, focusing primarily on delivering financial results, ensuring cash flow, and maintaining business controls. However, with the advent of technology and digitization, these roles have expanded significantly.

Derek Pillay, retirement funds Principal Consultant at Aon South Africa, it is a two-pronged approach where you save for retirement and save for emergencies. Monthly contributions, less admin charges and any risk premiums will be allocated two-thirds into the retirement pot and one-third into the savings pot.

Kevan Govender, Regional Investment Manager at Business Partners Limited highlights that financial challenges, particularly cash flow and access to finance, are consistently among the top concerns for SMEs, according to Business Partners Limited's quarterly SME Confidence Index. These findings underline how important it is for entrepreneurs to invest in their financial management skills, regardless of whether they have a formal financial background.

Life insurance is an essential element of building a sound financial future and as such policyholders should keep up to-date with what their policies provide, says Hollard Life Solutions head of underwritten intermediary sales, Steve Piper.

Mukuru leads in financial inclusion and empowerment for African women, boasting 56% female representation and a female-led tech team. Their initiatives support women’s financial literacy, technological advancement, and community upliftment, driving gender parity across the continent.