Insurer’s four doors: When your premiums start falling short
OPTIONS YOU SHOULD BE AWARE OF By Andró Griessel 06/06/2026 Many readers of this column have undoubtedly received a letter from an insurer over the past year regarding a policy’s premiums and benefits. One of our clients recently received such a letter concerning a life insurance policy. In the insurer’s words: “Unfortunately, your current premium […]
Here Are Four Myths About Retirement
RATHER SPOT THEM EARLYSavings still need room to grow By Samuel Rossouw 02/05/2026 I recently met with a client who is ready to press the retirement button. In other words, he is about to put down the goose that has laid the golden eggs for the past 40 years (his salary), and from here on, […]
When “playing it safe” costs you the win
LESSONS FROM THE GOLF COURSE – THINGS CAN GO WRONG VERY EASILY By Andro Griessel 04/04/2026 In a few days, the Masters golf tournament at Augusta National will take place for the 90th time. It therefore feels appropriate to begin this article with an anecdote from the Masters of 30 years ago (1996). That year […]
Leverage Usufruct to Your Advantage
SAVE ESTATE DUTY AND CAPITAL GAINS TAX THIS WAY By Elmie de Jager 7/3/2026 Is usufruct a dirty word or the answer? There are differing opinions on whether usufruct is worthwhile. However, if properly considered and correctly structured, it can result in substantial savings on estate duty and capital gains tax. It also offers an […]
On Swallows and Bittersweet Numbers
THE PAST IS NOT THE FUTURE By Andró Griessel 7/2/2026 According to my data, one would have to go back to 1999 to find a period in which a combination of South African assets (equities, bonds, cash and listed property) delivered a better return than in 2025. It is, however, a bittersweet statistic, I suspect, […]
Investors Sometimes Need to Reassess Perspective
REMEMBER: YOU STILL WANT TO BE ABLE TO RUN AT 80 By Deidré Valentine 3/1/2026 “Remember, you still want to be able to run when you’re 80. When that’s your goal, your perspective changes.” This piece of wise advice was shared with a friend of mine by an experienced runner after she suffered an injury […]
Woodland Wealth Recognised as an FPI-Approved Professional Practice
Dear Reader, What an honour. We’ve been selected as one of only 20 financial planning practices nationally to be recognised as an FPI Approved Professional Practice. This designation is awarded by the Financial Planning Institute of South Africa following a rigorous, independent assessment of governance, professional standards, and financial planning processes. The accreditation is held […]
Trust is Cardinal
THE OIL IN YOUR BUSINESS ENGINE By Andró Griessel 6/12/2025 Think for a moment about the people you would trust with your life. The names that come to mind are likely family members or one or two close friends who have been with you through deep waters and probably a fair amount of mischief. The […]
ChatGPT Is Not the Solution You Hope It Is
Guidelines to Steer Your Interaction By Cassie Carstens 1/11/2025 At a recent Ninety One conference, much attention was given to the astronomical progress of artificial intelligence (AI). Several talks were presented, along with real examples demonstrating the staggering capabilities these applications already possess. The advancements are exciting, but one must question what these tools might […]
Make Sure You Ask the Right Questions
CRYPTIC ADVICE DOESN’T GIVE THE FULL PICTURE By Andró Griessel 4 October 2025 Walking is cheaper than cycling, cycling is cheaper than driving, and driving is cheaper than flying. If the cost of your journey is the most important factor, it’s logical to go on foot. But if speed or distance matters more, you’ll need […]