SARS AI Audits: Why Your Accounting Partner is Your Best Defence
South African taxation has undergone a significant digital shift. As we move through 2026, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) has firmly adopted a data-driven, risk-based approach to compliance, often described as “compliance by design.” The days of random spot-checks have been replaced by automated systems that analyse taxpayer information in real-time. SARS now relies […]
The Impact of Recent Companies Act Amendments on Audit and Review Requirements for Close Corporations
Under the amended legislative framework, members of a close corporation are now required to prepare annual financial statements (AFS) within six months after the financial year-end. This timeline was shortened from the previous nine-month period due to the incorporation of relevant provisions from the Companies Act into the Close Corporations Act 69 of 1984. Section […]
How to Prepare for an External Audit
Getting ready for an external audit is an essential process for any business aiming to uphold compliance, ensure transparency, and strengthen its governance practices. External audits are essential for ensuring the accuracy of financial statements and verifying that a company is adhering to required accounting standards. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for […]
Accrual vs. Cash Accounting for Your Business: Which One Is Best?
When deciding between accrual and cash accounting for your business in South Africa, it’s important to understand the differences and how each method may affect your business. Both methods come with their own set of advantages and challenges, depending on the size and complexity of your business. This article will help you choose the right […]
Common Wealth-Planning Mistakes
In his poem The Mistake, James Fenton talks about the sad truth in making mistakes. He beautifully describes that even with blatant warnings that are ignored or subtle hints that have gone unnoticed, we sometimes go about our lives not knowing about the mistakes we are making—and how they will impact our loved ones when […]
The Dangers of Single-Spouse Financial Planning
The ability of families and retired couples to plan effectively to protect their financial future can be hampered when just one person is entirely responsible for all financial matters. Our team routinely consults with clients who are surprised—or even bewildered—when they find themselves to be the surviving spouse following a partner’s death. Particularly with the […]
Essential Financial Lessons Every Parent Should Pass Down
It’s true; financial literacy is as crucial as academic education, and many of us find ourselves reflecting on the lessons we wish were imparted by our parents. Growing up in South Africa, where economic challenges and opportunities coexist, understanding money management from an early age could have set a solid foundation for personal financial success. […]
Three Innovative Approaches to Boost Your Retirement Savings
Retirement planning is absolutely key to your financial well-being, but let’s face it, as those golden years inch closer, a lot of us start to worry if what we’ve saved up is really going to cut it. Sure, sticking to the tried-and-true savings plans is essential, but why not think outside the box a little? […]
Maximising Wealth, Minimising Tax
A comparative look at retirement annuities versus tax-free savings accounts. When it comes to personal finance, every individual has different needs, dreams and financial goals, as well as different pathways to achieving those objectives. One of the most common long-term ambitions shared by many South Africans is to retire comfortably—to live confidently, knowing that there […]
Why Honesty Is the Best Policy When Dealing with Your Financial Advisor
The foundation of any relationship with a financial advisor is built on trust and transparency. Clients are expected to share intimate details about their financial lives, similar to how one would discuss health issues with a doctor. This level of openness ensures that advisors can provide tailored advice that accurately reflects the client’s financial health […]