Reader Questions

Start by getting an indication of your asset allocation across your total investment portfolio, then consider the following …

It is, but what you should shop around for may not be what you intend to shop for …

There are three options, with one being preferable …

You need to plan for inflation together with your income drawing to ensure the capital lasts for as long as possible. Returns are also key …

And will I be able to access the money as cash before I buy an annuity?

Here's why paying off your car loan may be the best choice – and how to strategise after that.

Both are options, but they have long-term effects that you need to consider before deciding. Here are a few …

Here a few strategies to help manage tax liabilities while optimising investment growth and retirement savings.

Knowing what your ideal retirement looks like is the first step, then consider the following elements and tips …

It may be better to leave the bond on the investment property intact and pay down the bond on your new home. Here's why …

Any interest earned above the annual exclusion will be taxed at your marginal tax rate, which can mean a high tax bill and may warrant a change to this strategy …

Your investment strategy and cost structure are critical to determining an accurate duration. However, here is an estimation …

Transferring funds directly from one retirement fund to another is typically the most tax-efficient method, but there are various options.

The decision will depend on your risk profile and income needs.

Two advisors answer this reader's question.

It may be better to totally withdraw your funds and bypass the annuity, which will eliminate the risk of currency fluctuations impacting your capital over time.

There is no one-size-fits-all strategy, but here's a starting point …

Numerous discretionary investments, both local and offshore, are available to investors, including endowments.

It depends on the fund rules, but moving the funds to a preservation fund is also an option.

Living annuities can only receive funds from other retirement funds, but there is still a way to achieve your goal.

From a pure income perspective, a voluntary life annuity does appear to be the best option.

And will the balance fall away when I pass on?

You can borrow funds to buy a property, renovate a property, pay off a housing loan, or to guarantee a housing loan. You cannot use the funds for any other purpose.

After 10 years, the initial amount should still be available.

A discretionary investment including cash, bonds and growth assets may be the best option.

Personal ownership, a trust, or company: there are certain advantages and disadvantages in how you structure your portfolio.

Of three options on what to do with your RA funds, a life annuity would give you the highest probability of income certainty – but not at the required level.

In the current environment, the best match with your requirements would be either a ‘variable income’ or a ‘multi-asset income’ unit trust fund.

It depends on your overall current financial position.

Your investment strategy and cost structure are critical to determining an accurate duration. However, here is an estimation …

The scheduled tax legislation change relates specifically to provident preservation funds.

Three of the biggest risks someone close to, or at retirement faces: longevity, inflation, and the underlying investment assets.

Will R23 800 be tax-exempt and then I'm taxed at 40% for the remaining amount?

A major concern when considering an annuity income relates to the growth rate assumptions.

You can split your capital between an all-equity portfolio offshore and SA equity and bonds.

My husband has been employed by Portnet for about 30 years. He wants to retire early - will he qualify for UIF?

The question of paying off debt or contributing to retirement savings is something many South Africans wonder about.

There is no one-size-fits-all strategy, but here's a starting point …

If so, are there any tax consequences to consider?

I cannot take a lot of risk, as this is all the money I have.