Articles by Jessica Anne Wood

Fuel price hike for January 2017
The year is starting off with a fuel price increase. On Friday, the Department of Energy announced that diesel and petrol prices will increase from 4 January.

Fuel levy likely to see large increase
According to Dawie Roodt, chief economist of the Efficient Group, motorists should expect a hike in the fuel levy this year. In addition, this year could see a higher oil price and a possibly weaker Rand. Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan will ann...

Consumers to feel drought relief
According to reports, the drought that the country suffered in 2016 is over. However, that doesn’t mean that we should dance through our sprinklers for joy just yet as the impact of the drought will still be felt for a while yet...

Contract payment break with MTN
If you are struggling with your debt repayments you may be able to apply for a payment ‘holiday’ from certain service providers or companies, which could help you back on your feet. Local cell phone network provider MTN, for instan...

Eskom interrupts power supply to defaulting municipalities
While the power utility has reached payment agreements with five defaulting municipalities, Eskom will initiate supply interruptions to a number of municipalities in the Free State, Mpumalanga, Northern Cape, and North West.

Cape Town water crisis: How bad is it?
There are many claims making the rounds regarding the ongoing water crisis in the country. Some of the claims include those stating that Cape Town only has 100 days of water left, with others warning of water-shedding. However, you need not put ...

Ford Kuga fires: Will your insurance pay out?
Following the recall of 4556 Ford Kuga 1.6L due to a coolant system error, a number of people have voiced concerns regarding their vehicles. Some Ford Kuga drivers are worried they will not get a good trade-in value on the vehicle due ...

Pick n Pay Smart Shopper credit facility
Store cards with a credit facility have mainly been offered by clothing stores but Pick n Pay also in on the act with a new credit facility available via their Smart Shopper card.

Can banks change your credit agreement?
If you innocently dip into your access bond to use the capital to fund a building project, your child’s tertiary education or anything else for that matter you could be opening yourself up to paying more in interest. This is according to ...

Making the most of your Stokvel’s money
Stokvels are a common informal savings tool used across South Africa. Communities pool their money together, and when a member needs funds, they are paid out a lump sum from the savings pool. However, this money is not always kept in a bank acco...

Investment guide: Woolworths
Recent reports highlighted the financial issues that appear to be plaguing Woolworths. This is compounded by a growing number of retailers vying for the declining spending power of consumers. However, it can be difficult to judge the ...

Investment guide: Vodacom
Despite good financial results, the question remains whether or not Vodacom Group is a good investment. This guide looks at what you need to know before taking the plunge and investing in Vodacom.

