Articles by Isabelle Coetzee

How to spend a lump sum for great returns
Imagine you win the lotto. Anyone in this position would be ecstatic! But once your excitement settles down, you’ll have to consider what best to do with this money.

What are the three phases of money laundering?
Money laundering seems like the kind of thing that’s only a concern in blockbuster films. However, South Africa is, in fact, considered a hotspot for money laundering. So, what does this actually entail, and what are the consequences of t...

Do interest rates really matter when settling debt?
As the interest rate fluctuates, you may have wondered how it affects your outstanding debt. We look at how interest rates may affect your finances.]

Are employers responsible for work-from-home costs?
While working from home, you may quickly realise you’re spending more on data, coffee, and stationery. If your employer covered these costs while you were working from the office, then you may wonder whether they ought to continue coverin...

The way financial control is used to manipulate a partner
There’s nothing wrong with supporting a loved one financially. However, there are abusers who, among other things, use financial control to trap their partner. So what are the signs you should look out for to make sure you’re not b...

How to choose a tax practitioner – ask these questions
Your friends and family may have advised you to hire a tax practitioner to make sure you remain tax-compliant. But how do you choose the right one for you?

5 Questions to ask about your investments
It takes diligence and patience to build an investment. Any financial adviser would encourage you to leave your growing lumpsum, in spite of small fluctuations in the market. However, at what point should you consider moving your investment elsewhere?

Who is responsible if you’re injured while working from home?
Working from home allows companies to forfeit their office space, which decreases their costs. However, are they opening themselves up to new costs? An employer is responsible for the safety of an employee when they work from the office. But doe...

Are you legally required to work overtime?
Working overtime is a common practice in many fields. In some cases, companies have a culture where overtime work is expected of employees. But where’s the line between voluntary additional work and subtle coercion?

Is your credit score valid internationally?
Without a credit score abroad, you won’t be able to get decent rates for home loans or be approved for vehicle finance. We found out what happens to your credit score when you leave the country.

How to negotiate lower insurance premiums
Paying monthly insurance premiums can feel like a grudge purchase because you don’t see the benefits unless you find yourself in a sticky situation. But would it seem less so if you could pay lower premiums?

Young professional? Set up your personal finances for long-term success
As a young professional, you may have just started your first job and become financially independent from your family. This is a unique financial position to be in. So how should you arrange your personal finances for long-term success?

