Writer DS 
April is here and it is in all probability your worst financial reality check. You may possibly even call it your ‘financial doomsday’ – the 2018 VAT rate increase. And, if you think that “there’s nothing to it” – you’d better THINK AGAIN. “As of the 1st of April almost every monthly expense will increase
Don’t you just love the smell of fresh bread, donuts and other pastries as you pass the grocery store’s entrance? Not to even mention the gadget display table that catches your eye, as you make your way to the cashier. There’s probably nothing you can do to avoid these manoeuvred marketing gimmicks, or is there?
This month is an important reminder of South Africans’ human rights, and rightfully so. But, if there is one thing that the South African consumer should also take note of is, that World Consumer Rights Day is celebrated on the 15th of March. Consumers are primarily responsible not only to make sure they protect their
#DebtExit On the news side of things – many citizens anxiously awaited a new open door for South Africa. With so-called wishes in all probability coming true, aka recent highlights, perhaps the economy has a chance to start gaining momentum for a change. But, putting aside national politics – what exit doors do consumers usually
It is the month of love – red roses, chocolate hearts and dinners by candlelight. BUT, are you sure that nothing in the world can come between you and your Valentine? These days more and more romantic relationships are on the edge because of debt’s sly interference. Relationships, as well as your finances, need constant
The perfect story – boy meets girl, you fall in love and move in together… In some cases your ‘partnership’ develops into a ‘wedlock’ (wed-LOCK *wink wink nudge nudge*). BUT have you ever considered the possibility of an unfortunate breakup and unhappy ending? What financial implications are you left to deal with when years of
Having various debt obligations these days, is nothing new. This includes debts like a credit card, a bond or a personal loan that you need to pay off. Face it – debt can become and in most cases is already part of your life. In certain circumstances it is not a bad thing – if
The year is coming to a swift end and it is almost time to start afresh with your 2018 financial goals. Have you been thinking about your fiscal resolutions at all? Hopefully, you are not feeling too down in the dumps because your financial cookie crumbled. It is indeed a time to arise and let
Matthys Potgieter, spokesperson and debt expert at DebtSafe, says there are still five things that you can take into account to ‘jingle’ your Christmas Day budget to work for your financial situation this year: 1. Planning and budgeting Potgieter states that although time is limited, you have to draw up your ‘Christmas budget blueprint’ and
Are you one of the lucky South African consumers expecting to receive a 13th cheque or tax refund soon? It can bring some financial relief (if used prudently) especially as December is one of the most, if not THE most, expensive month of the year. Have you done some financial planning to sensibly make your