Member Newsletter

Quarter 1 • 2025


Dear Member

Understanding the two-pot retirement system can be complex at times, so here we give you clarity on some of the myths. Also, we share some steps that you can take to secure your retirement and recommend that you speak to a certified financial planner to help guide you. Get free financial advice from the Alexforbes Individual Advice Centre (IAC).

In this newsletter, we offer some simple money tips for a better 2025 – such as managing your debt and starting an emergency fund, to avoid dipping into your savings if you are in distress.

We show the recent performance of the Balanced Growth Portfolio and remind you to keep your focus on the long term. Time and patience will grow your retirement savings.

Will Trump’s presidency affect global and South African markets? Our article explains why it is difficult to tell. Fortunately, our investment strategy is designed to withstand these changes and our trustees ensure that your retirement savings are managed with long-term objectives in mind.


Two-pot System Updates

Although the two-pot system was introduced over six months ago (on 1 September 2024), many South Africans still struggle to understand how the new system operates.
Remember – a good financial plan will prioritise your retirement savings.
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Myth 1 – I must withdraw my two-pot savings

I have to withdraw my money now otherwise I will lose the opportunity to withdraw it later.

The truth

You can withdraw from your savings pot any time in the future. If you do not withdraw from your savings pot, the balance will continue to grow each year. The two-pot system is here to stay, so there is no rush to withdraw your money. You can only make withdrawals from your savings pot with AF Connect. Click here to log in or register on AF Connect.

Myth 2 – My savings pot will be topped up every year

My savings pot will be topped up every year with money from my old retirement savings.

The truth

The seed capital transfer was a one-off event in September 2024 and will not happen again. After September 2024, one-third of your monthly contributions goes into your savings pot. This increases the amount in your savings pot every month.

Myth 3 – Having two pots lowers my investment returns

Dividing my contributions between the savings pot and retirement pot reduces my overall investment growth.

The truth

Although your retirement savings are split into two pots, this does not affect how your money is invested. Investment returns are based on the amount saved in each pot.

Emergencies do happen, but withdrawing from your savings pot should be YOUR last resort.
Your retirement savings are there to support you when you retire.

TWO-POT SYSTEM
For more information on the two-pot system, please click here.