Articles by Staff Writer

Bank card vs. Smartphone: What is the difference?
Although debit card fraud has decreased in South Africa, credit card fraud has risen to an annual loss of R436.7 million. This is according to the 2017 Card Fraud Stats, which was released by the South African Banking Risk Information Centre (Sa...

6 Ways you can secure lower interest rates
It’s tempting to be anxious when thinking about credit cards or loan repayments. However, having and living with credit is not a bad thing, if you manage it responsibly and approach it proactively. One way to do this is to secure low inte...

Honey, let's chat money
Studies indicate that money issues are a leading cause of arguments among couples. We examine the steps that you can take to better co-manage your finances.

7 Facts about tax-free savings accounts
7 Facts about tax-free savings accounts

Youth unemployment trends call for earlier saving plans
Over half of South Africa’s young people are unemployed. This situation has been exacerbated by the pandemic, which has wreaked havoc on the economy. Many young people have not only returned to live with their parents, but have become fin...

10 Fundamental financial mistakes
Keeping track of your personal finances can be difficult, and sometimes even the smallest mistakes can cost you dearly. We consider ten of the more fundamental financial mistakes, and offer some tips on how to avoid them.

Should you consider a mortgage bond switch?
When switching your bond, the transactional costs will depend on the value of your loan. You will also need to consider the cost of an attorney to re-register the bond.

How to minimise the impact of inflation on your finances
As South Africans, we have come to understand that inflation is as much a part of life as death and taxes. Steep price hikes have taken a heavy toll, particularly on those affected by Covid-induced salary cuts or job loss.

What does it mean to be blacklisted?
The term “blacklisted” is an outdated concept that was used to refer to borrowers whose access to credit was blocked owing to a poor credit report.

Switching Lanes – navigating midlife career change
Your workday can profoundly affect your personal life. However, a career change gone awry can worsen the situation, rather than bringing relief.

Budgeting for the return to office-based work
As the pandemic peters out, many companies are calling for remote workers to return to the office. With it will come a host of expenses that we recall too well - fuel, normalised car insurance, maintenance costs, lunch, coffee and, potentially, ...

Can you afford the loan you qualify for?
You’ve applied for a loan, and you find that you qualify – but can you afford it? The distinction may not have occurred to you, but it’s important to consider it before putting pen to paper.

