“It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” as the festive jingle says – but the season also brings temptations to overspend. From enticing sales to ‘buy now, pay later’ offers, it’s easy to fall into financial traps and begin the new year with regret. CreditSmart Financial Services urges South Africans to make informed financial […]
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With just over a month to go before year-end holidays, many South Africans are feeling the pressure to plan their festive finances. After all, the holidays can bring joy, but they can also bring debt. According to Wonga’s Annual Summer Spending Survey, holiday spending in South Africa was set to reach a staggering R224 billion
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Despite some positive signs, particularly a prolonged period without loadshedding, many South Africans still feel the cumulative effects of high interest rates, inflation and an underperforming economy. The repo rate has been steady for over a year ,but increased from 3.5% in 2021 to 8.25%, where it remains for the moment. The repo rate is
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Over the past few decades, the role of women has evolved significantly. More women are entering the workforce and often becoming the primary breadwinners. In addition to managing family and caregiving duties, many women also shoulder the financial responsibilities necessary to support themselves, their families and their households. In a world where financial independence equates
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Many cash-strapped South Africans are turning to credit to make ends meet. Unfortunately, fraudsters are also looking to cash in on the increasing demand for credit, and there is little they won’t do to take advantage of vulnerable victims. The solution is to take both proactive and reactive measures to outsmart swindlers and protect your
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In a world where misinformation spreads like wildfire, it’s essential to separate fact from fiction, especially when it comes to financial solutions. Debt review, or debt counselling, is a lifeline for many South Africans struggling with debt. However, numerous myths surround this process, creating confusion and discouraging people from seeking the help they need. Here
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“There are conflicting opinions surrounding debt review, also known as debt counselling,” says Wikus Olivier, managing director at CreditSmart Financial Services. “And I want to make it clear: Debt review isn’t for everyone. But, while some may give debt review the immediate thumbs-down due to not fully understanding the ins and outs of the process,
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Thankfully, the first two months of the year have come and gone. Still in the first quarter, consumers should be in full force of working toward a financially fit future. If you haven’t done so already, now is the ideal time to put a clear plan on how to meet your financial obligations. According to
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