Newsletters
Quarter 2 • 2026
Keep Your Will Updated – Protect Your Family
Thinking about death is not comfortable. But planning ahead is important for your loved ones. A valid and updated will helps make sure your wishes are understood, and your family is cared for.
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Understanding Your Death Benefits
If you pass away, your loved ones may face
many expenses, such as funeral costs, debt repayments, and your children’s education.
The Fund provides several benefits to help support your family during this difficult time.
When Your Debt Gets Too Much
Debt counselling is a legal process that helps people who are in too much debt. A registered debt counsellor deals with your credit providers and helps arrange a more affordable repayment plan.
Your Fund’s Portfolio Performance
The chart below shows the investment performance of the Fund’s main investment portfolio – the Balanced Growth Portfolio – ending 31 March 2026.
You Can’t Predict, But You Can Prepare
Long-term investment success is not about predicting short-term movements, but about following a well-constructed long-term strategy that can withstand a range of outcomes.
The Impact of the Middle East Conflict
Conflicts around the world can affect fuel prices, food prices, economic growth and can increase inflation. South Africa’s reliance on imported fuel means higher petrol and diesel costs, which in turn raise transport costs and contribute to inflation.
Quarter 1 • 2026
Rebuild your savings after a withdrawal
At the beginning of March, the two-pot withdrawal period has opened. Some members may have made a withdrawal to deal with debt or unexpected expenses. While withdrawals can help in difficult times, they reduce the money available to you when you retire.
If you have made a withdrawal, now is a good time to start rebuilding your savings.
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Reset your savings goals after a divorce
If a divorce order requires that part of your retirement savings be paid to your former spouse, your total retirement savings can be reduced by a large amount.
This can be discouraging, but it is important to remember that your retirement journey does not end there.
With a clear plan and consistent saving, you can rebuild your savings over time.
Take control of your debt
Debt can build up quickly, especially when unexpected expenses arise. Many members rely on credit cards, store accounts or short-term loans just to get through the month.
Your Fund’s Portfolio Performance
The chart below shows the investment performance of the Fund’s main investment portfolio – the Balanced Growth Portfolio – over various periods ending 31 December 2025.
Understanding investor behaviour
Markets are not only driven by facts and numbers but also by human behaviour.
When markets rise or fall sharply, investor emotions can influence prices just as much as economic events. It is normal to feel uncertain when markets move quickly or when new events dominate the headlines. At times like these, some investors react emotionally rather than focusing on the long‑term.
Stay focused on the strategy
If your divorce order states that your former spouse must get a share of your retirement savings, this is called a claim against your pension interest. The Fund is required by law to pay the specified amount to the non-member spouse.
Join AF Connect and unlock many benefits
Besides providing easy access to your Benefit Statement, AF Connect has many other benefits. Start taking control of your retirement journey by logging in or registering on AF Connect.
