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        <title><![CDATA[IOL section feed for Personal Finance]]></title>
        <description><![CDATA[IOL Section Feed from Independent Media (South Africa).]]></description>
        <link>https://www.iol.co.za</link>
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            <title>IOL section feed for Personal Finance</title>
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        <pubDate>Fri, 09 Oct 2026 18:34:09 GMT</pubDate>
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        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Berry picker awarded one year's salary after losing job on return from maternity leave]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/jobs/berry-picker-awarded-one-years-salary-after-losing-job-on-return-from-maternity-leave-7d033377-a9f7-4676-8c6b-30d4c05426a9</link>
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            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Fri, 09 Oct 2026 06:47:46 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Fri, 09 Oct 2026 06:47:46 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
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                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
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            <dc:abstract>A Stellenbosch farmworker who returned from maternity leave to find herself out of a job has won R62,100 in compensation and other payments after the Labour Court ruled that her retrenchment was unfair.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Brace for another interest rate hike, more inflation as fuel increases unleash vicious cycle]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/brace-for-another-interest-rate-hike-more-inflation-as-fuel-increases-unleash-vicious-cycle-be11111d-9ad6-4b70-a14c-0f6cecc2922e</link>
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            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Wed, 07 Oct 2026 10:04:58 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Wed, 07 Oct 2026 10:04:58 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
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                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
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            <dc:abstract>Higher fuel prices could push inflation and interest rates higher, adding to debt repayments before consumers even get to the petrol station, supermarket or anything else they need to pay for.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[FSCA raises red flag over Geefx investments]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/savings/fsca-raises-red-flag-over-geefx-investments-07dfe9b8-3278-453b-835c-d88ca623461b</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/savings/fsca-raises-red-flag-over-geefx-investments-07dfe9b8-3278-453b-835c-d88ca623461b</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Wed, 07 Oct 2026 10:02:47 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Wed, 07 Oct 2026 10:02:47 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
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                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
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            <dc:abstract>The FSCA has warned the public about Geefx and says neither the company nor Uwen Paulsen is authorised to provide financial services, while urging caution over investment offers.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Bank forced to wipe R300,000 car debt after botched repossession]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/bank-forced-to-wipe-r300000-car-debt-after-botched-repossession-39dc959d-d366-4aad-9690-9c6bd50395cd</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/bank-forced-to-wipe-r300000-car-debt-after-botched-repossession-39dc959d-d366-4aad-9690-9c6bd50395cd</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Mon, 05 Oct 2026 15:02:51 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Mon, 05 Oct 2026 15:02:51 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
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                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
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            <dc:abstract>A motorist left owing about R300,000 after a bank repossessed and sold his vehicle has had the entire shortfall written off after the bank could not prove he voluntarily surrendered the car or that it had a court order.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[You could lose your shirt trying to rescue your company]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/jobs/you-could-lose-your-shirt-trying-to-rescue-your-company-5a3f08b6-1253-4379-b320-e9df1a568eec</link>
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            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Fri, 02 Oct 2026 12:59:44 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Fri, 02 Oct 2026 12:59:44 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
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                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/e6b51e995d5262f6e49a610452d04b5c3e3df9cb/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=941x941"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
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            <dc:abstract>Business rescue is intended to give struggling companies a second chance, but it can take more than a year, cost money they no longer have and still end in liquidation.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Fuel Price Crisis | How the vicious cycle is squeezing your wallet from every angle]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/fuel-price-crisis-how-the-vicious-cycle-is-squeezing-your-wallet-from-every-angle-45ebb025-bd6c-4faf-a1c2-7dae65cd8913</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/fuel-price-crisis-how-the-vicious-cycle-is-squeezing-your-wallet-from-every-angle-45ebb025-bd6c-4faf-a1c2-7dae65cd8913</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Fri, 02 Oct 2026 12:56:24 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Fri, 02 Oct 2026 12:56:24 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
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                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Higher fuel prices could push inflation and interest rates higher, adding to debt repayments before consumers even get to the petrol station, supermarket or anything else they need to pay for.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Discovery, Momentum among medical aid hikes nearly double CMS’s 3.8% benchmark]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/discovery-momentum-among-medical-aid-hikes-nearly-double-cmss-38-benchmark-f2495fd1-7f10-4cf4-a26e-ec9112406b61</link>
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            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Fri, 02 Oct 2026 09:22:49 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Fri, 02 Oct 2026 09:22:49 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
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                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
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            <dc:abstract>South Africans with medical aid face another round of above-inflation contribution increases in 2027, despite the regulator urging schemes to keep affordability in mind.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Why you are earning less than you did a year ago]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/jobs/why-you-are-earning-less-than-you-did-a-year-ago-aa283d00-2965-4f04-9401-0473cfa3e26f</link>
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            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 01 Oct 2026 05:17:15 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 01 Oct 2026 05:17:15 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
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                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Average take-home pay fell in August, while salaries have declined by more than 2% in real terms so far this year.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Your savings, wealth and budgeting questions answered]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/sponsored/your-savings-wealth-and-budgeting-questions-answered-8bf48557-1679-4c2f-bbd0-e675720351d8</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/sponsored/your-savings-wealth-and-budgeting-questions-answered-8bf48557-1679-4c2f-bbd0-e675720351d8</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[PSG (Sponsored content)]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2026 13:42:27 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Tue, 29 Sep 2026 13:42:27 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/857b780e3da0776cc9eb4de23a8c9b4e885ce8b0/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=2x0&amp;resize=1996x1123" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/857b780e3da0776cc9eb4de23a8c9b4e885ce8b0/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1123x1123"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>PSG answers your savings, wealth and budgeting questions.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[South Africans are among the world's most financially stressed]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/south-africans-are-among-the-worlds-most-financially-stressed-3efc5e4a-a329-4267-aae6-fe83eb14c523</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/south-africans-are-among-the-worlds-most-financially-stressed-3efc5e4a-a329-4267-aae6-fe83eb14c523</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2026 04:46:24 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Tue, 29 Sep 2026 04:46:24 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/18824cf4e495fdacf439ddc3049158550d0e79c3/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1672x941" type="image/jpeg">
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                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>South Africa ranked ninth among 32 countries for financial stress as local research finds applicants typically committed 58.4% of take-home pay to debt repayments.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[30,248 South Africans hit with debt summonses in just one month]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/30248-south-africans-hit-with-debt-summonses-in-just-one-month-d3a83a5c-4bdf-40f5-a504-cf21d19b885e</link>
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            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Mon, 28 Sep 2026 09:09:22 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Mon, 28 Sep 2026 09:09:22 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
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                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>More than 30,000 summonses were issued against private individuals in July as unpaid loans and other debts reached the courts as debt judgments hit R1 billion.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Interest rate hike takes effect: Here’s how much more you will pay for your car and home]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/interest-rate-hike-takes-effect-heres-how-much-more-you-will-pay-for-your-car-and-home-afc866de-6a80-4f89-9935-740f43148d58</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/interest-rate-hike-takes-effect-heres-how-much-more-you-will-pay-for-your-car-and-home-afc866de-6a80-4f89-9935-740f43148d58</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Fri, 25 Sep 2026 07:44:46 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Fri, 25 Sep 2026 07:44:46 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/559f41bc1e74e5a2540236c59b9b6b1ea087960a/4639&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=4x0&amp;resize=4631x2605" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/559f41bc1e74e5a2540236c59b9b6b1ea087960a/4639&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=2605x2605"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>The latest interest rate hike takes effect today, pushing prime to 10.75% and increasing monthly repayments on variable-rate car and home loans.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Have South African interest rates finally peaked? Experts weigh in]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/have-south-african-interest-rates-finally-peaked-experts-weigh-in-beaf59ca-c032-4442-9afd-c2b4b339209b</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/have-south-african-interest-rates-finally-peaked-experts-weigh-in-beaf59ca-c032-4442-9afd-c2b4b339209b</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Wed, 23 Sep 2026 16:11:22 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Wed, 23 Sep 2026 16:11:22 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
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                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
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            <dc:abstract>The Reserve Bank’s unanimous rate hike was more hawkish than expected, but economists say the latest increase could also mark the top of the cycle.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[WATCH: SARB hikes interest rate on back of higher inflation]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/watch-sarb-hikes-interest-rate-on-back-of-higher-inflation-a0f3292f-09c4-4b93-ac7b-58ddb503cf41</link>
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            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Wed, 23 Sep 2026 13:25:27 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Wed, 23 Sep 2026 13:25:27 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
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                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>As the central bank sees risks to the upside of inflation, it has hiked the prime interest rate to 10.75%.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[WATCH: Will it hold or rise? SARB to announce interest rate decision this afternoon]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/watch-will-it-hold-or-rise-sarb-to-announce-interest-rate-decision-this-afternoon-8472ca28-65fb-405e-9b3e-4237313570e2</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/watch-will-it-hold-or-rise-sarb-to-announce-interest-rate-decision-this-afternoon-8472ca28-65fb-405e-9b3e-4237313570e2</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Wed, 23 Sep 2026 13:03:45 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Wed, 23 Sep 2026 13:03:45 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/f2ca6c82d674ab066075a6479444c4b5198b4917/1280&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x67&amp;resize=1280x720" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/f2ca6c82d674ab066075a6479444c4b5198b4917/1280&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=853x853"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Markets are betting on another interest rate hike this week, although easing inflation expectations and a contracting economy could give the Reserve Bank reason to hold.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[South Africa’s inflation rises to 4.4% as transport costs fuel price pressures]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/south-africas-inflation-rises-to-44-as-transport-costs-fuel-price-pressures-8664a97b-83a8-49d8-918e-04a52bd59244</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/south-africas-inflation-rises-to-44-as-transport-costs-fuel-price-pressures-8664a97b-83a8-49d8-918e-04a52bd59244</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Wed, 23 Sep 2026 08:19:11 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Wed, 23 Sep 2026 08:19:11 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/18f2b84ecacedbf16fe8516e75c087b474e9284c/1600&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1600x900" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/18f2b84ecacedbf16fe8516e75c087b474e9284c/1600&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=900x900"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>South Africa’s inflation rate edged up to 4.4% in August, with housing and transport the biggest contributors, hours before the central bank announces its latest interest rate decision.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Murder-for-money insurance cases nearly triple as calls grow for tighter controls]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/murder-for-money-insurance-cases-nearly-triple-as-calls-grow-for-tighter-controls-a49e0137-8de5-450c-9ca3-8e0db0b503da</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/murder-for-money-insurance-cases-nearly-triple-as-calls-grow-for-tighter-controls-a49e0137-8de5-450c-9ca3-8e0db0b503da</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Tue, 22 Sep 2026 17:46:14 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Tue, 22 Sep 2026 17:46:14 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/6f52461449632bbc794046eb100512c54c700e34/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1672x941" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/6f52461449632bbc794046eb100512c54c700e34/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=941x941"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Life insurers detected 38 murder-for-money cases in 2024, almost three times the number a year earlier, as the National Financial Ombud calls for tighter controls over policies taken out on someone else’s life.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Money’s on a rate hike this week as oil prices and Fed move pile pressure on SARB]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/moneys-on-a-rate-hike-this-week-as-oil-prices-and-fed-move-pile-pressure-on-sarb-8bf8f703-9fcb-4963-866a-cce4f6ab4f50</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/moneys-on-a-rate-hike-this-week-as-oil-prices-and-fed-move-pile-pressure-on-sarb-8bf8f703-9fcb-4963-866a-cce4f6ab4f50</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Mon, 21 Sep 2026 09:00:10 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Mon, 21 Sep 2026 09:00:10 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/cffbe5c887a0a8d5c3f5f19fe38e67040afab821/1080&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1080x608" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/cffbe5c887a0a8d5c3f5f19fe38e67040afab821/1080&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1080x1080"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Markets are betting on another interest rate hike this week, although easing inflation expectations and a contracting economy could give the Reserve Bank reason to hold.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Nearly 60% of income gone before the bills: South Africa's debt warning]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/nearly-60-of-income-gone-before-the-bills-south-africas-debt-warning-2251516a-63bb-4cbc-aa67-b0a897f7583f</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/nearly-60-of-income-gone-before-the-bills-south-africas-debt-warning-2251516a-63bb-4cbc-aa67-b0a897f7583f</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Mon, 21 Sep 2026 04:24:40 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Mon, 21 Sep 2026 04:24:40 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/a352c5d065e2790e445f65063698c8a8890e87c7/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1672x941" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/a352c5d065e2790e445f65063698c8a8890e87c7/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=941x941"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>South Africans applying for debt review spend almost 60% of take-home pay on unsecured debt, while millions have no savings for emergencies.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[‘Pay up your one cent’: SARS admits error over bizarre tax demand]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/pay-up-your-one-cent-sars-admits-error-over-bizarre-tax-demand-e043efc5-3646-4234-85f8-f4bfee22ee7e</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/pay-up-your-one-cent-sars-admits-error-over-bizarre-tax-demand-e043efc5-3646-4234-85f8-f4bfee22ee7e</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Tue, 15 Sep 2026 11:38:25 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Tue, 15 Sep 2026 11:38:25 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/7cd938c1adef5f5c2a13be16b7ac150bf65fb767/1536&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x80&amp;resize=1536x864" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/7cd938c1adef5f5c2a13be16b7ac150bf65fb767/1536&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1024x1024"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>SARS has admitted a final demand ordering a taxpayer to pay an outstanding tax bill of just one cent was issued in error, amid a history of mistakes acknowledged by the revenue service and recorded by the courts.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Money is stressing South Africans out, but we won’t talk about it]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/money-is-stressing-south-africans-out-but-we-wont-talk-about-it-ab36fbf5-1871-453d-bdeb-b6711bc9afa6</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/money-is-stressing-south-africans-out-but-we-wont-talk-about-it-ab36fbf5-1871-453d-bdeb-b6711bc9afa6</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Mon, 14 Sep 2026 13:39:34 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Mon, 14 Sep 2026 13:39:34 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/aaaaffa7b8fb6b7e77eaa4d7e851c681ff69fe27/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1672x941" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/aaaaffa7b8fb6b7e77eaa4d7e851c681ff69fe27/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=941x941"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>More than half of South Africans say money is their biggest source of stress, while separate research shows financial pressure is rising.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Public servants tap R15 billion in retirement savings]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/jobs/public-servants-tap-r15-billion-in-retirement-savings-abfb52d6-8f91-4a44-9d21-fecfaa1ab8d5</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/jobs/public-servants-tap-r15-billion-in-retirement-savings-abfb52d6-8f91-4a44-9d21-fecfaa1ab8d5</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Mon, 14 Sep 2026 10:37:06 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Mon, 14 Sep 2026 10:37:06 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/d433f4d55b5222c1c568c0a11795dfa29b16f13c/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1672x941" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/d433f4d55b5222c1c568c0a11795dfa29b16f13c/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=941x941"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>More than half a million public servants withdrew about R15 billion from their retirement savings in just seven months after the two-pot system took effect.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Electricity VAT here to stay despite 165% tariff surge]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/electricity-vat-here-to-stay-despite-165-tariff-surge-9eabb0c0-c2df-4e03-95a0-3719c5ab5a00</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/electricity-vat-here-to-stay-despite-165-tariff-surge-9eabb0c0-c2df-4e03-95a0-3719c5ab5a00</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Fri, 11 Sep 2026 05:31:32 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Fri, 11 Sep 2026 05:31:32 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/ad4be95a4d98cabad1883c27a029235583d8bf00/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1672x941" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/ad4be95a4d98cabad1883c27a029235583d8bf00/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=941x941"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>South Africans will continue paying 15% VAT on electricity despite power tariffs having increased by as much as 165% over the past decade.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[From 5am starts to daily pain – Free State farmer wins RAF claim]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/from-5am-starts-to-daily-pain-free-state-farmer-wins-raf-claim-1fbe8f5e-3dc3-44f6-a2be-92154222f1a1</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/from-5am-starts-to-daily-pain-free-state-farmer-wins-raf-claim-1fbe8f5e-3dc3-44f6-a2be-92154222f1a1</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Fri, 11 Sep 2026 03:21:38 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Fri, 11 Sep 2026 03:21:38 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/e5556d95346af4ad083ea7f00a35effb0d952114/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1672x941" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/e5556d95346af4ad083ea7f00a35effb0d952114/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=941x941"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>A Free State farmer who can no longer perform much of the physical work his livelihood depends on has won his claim for loss of earnings against the Road Accident Fund.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[SA households squeezed from both ends]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/sa-households-squeezed-from-both-ends-8495f5ea-d8f7-457e-b588-c37ed945fc86</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/sa-households-squeezed-from-both-ends-8495f5ea-d8f7-457e-b588-c37ed945fc86</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Wed, 09 Sep 2026 11:21:21 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Wed, 09 Sep 2026 11:21:21 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/4422db76f1c5008f68d16fc8b12d70a35ac683a9/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1672x941" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/4422db76f1c5008f68d16fc8b12d70a35ac683a9/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=941x941"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>South African households are being squeezed from both ends as formal-sector jobs disappear while debt climbs, leaving even comparatively well-paid consumers struggling to keep up with repayments.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[‘It was an error’ – SARS on one-cent letter of demand]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/it-was-an-error-sars-on-one-cent-letter-of-demand-be2f5aa9-7bc3-4eb7-899c-662ab72bc6b3</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/it-was-an-error-sars-on-one-cent-letter-of-demand-be2f5aa9-7bc3-4eb7-899c-662ab72bc6b3</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Wed, 09 Sep 2026 10:15:07 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Wed, 09 Sep 2026 10:15:07 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/7cd938c1adef5f5c2a13be16b7ac150bf65fb767/1536&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x80&amp;resize=1536x864" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/7cd938c1adef5f5c2a13be16b7ac150bf65fb767/1536&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1024x1024"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>SARS has admitted a final demand ordering a taxpayer to pay an outstanding tax bill of just one cent was issued in error, amid a history of mistakes acknowledged by the revenue service and recorded by the courts.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[SARS chases taxpayer for one cent]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/sars-chases-taxpayer-for-one-cent-30a12abd-f847-4775-8de1-2b9e6f02dc16</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/sars-chases-taxpayer-for-one-cent-30a12abd-f847-4775-8de1-2b9e6f02dc16</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Wed, 09 Sep 2026 09:07:40 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Wed, 09 Sep 2026 09:07:40 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/9f8a3fe72f9c2f8645eb2a4da24fa196366c3f87/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1672x941" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/9f8a3fe72f9c2f8645eb2a4da24fa196366c3f87/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=941x941"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>A taxpayer has reportedly received a final demand from SARS for just one cent, raising fresh concerns about how even tiny outstanding amounts can affect taxpayers.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Former magistrate told to return Mercedes he ‘cannot afford’]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/former-magistrate-told-to-return-mercedes-he-cannot-afford-5ada187b-9acb-4882-aac9-905a212bb52a</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/former-magistrate-told-to-return-mercedes-he-cannot-afford-5ada187b-9acb-4882-aac9-905a212bb52a</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Fri, 04 Sep 2026 08:29:48 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Fri, 04 Sep 2026 08:29:48 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/f96230939579cb4bc821c6a63af261937ae39c18/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x1&amp;resize=2000x1125" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/f96230939579cb4bc821c6a63af261937ae39c18/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1127x1127"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>A former magistrate who stopped paying for his Mercedes in 2023 has been told that being unable to afford it is no defence.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Steep diesel hike unlikely to hammer grocery bills in South Africa]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/steep-diesel-hike-unlikely-to-hammer-grocery-bills-in-south-africa-20a63730-eeae-4a10-a8ed-727bc0d9ee0c</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/steep-diesel-hike-unlikely-to-hammer-grocery-bills-in-south-africa-20a63730-eeae-4a10-a8ed-727bc0d9ee0c</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Wed, 02 Sep 2026 13:37:47 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Wed, 02 Sep 2026 13:37:47 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/078493ae218dcb915c9fe442b663f520154c746b/1600&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1600x900" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/078493ae218dcb915c9fe442b663f520154c746b/1600&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=900x900"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>September’s sharp diesel increase could filter through to food prices, although agricultural price deflation may help cushion the impact on consumers.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[PICS: What it costs to live alone around the world]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/jobs/pics-what-it-costs-to-live-alone-around-the-world-aac44ea3-f8b9-4300-9d97-a9fc94924eef</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/jobs/pics-what-it-costs-to-live-alone-around-the-world-aac44ea3-f8b9-4300-9d97-a9fc94924eef</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Wed, 02 Sep 2026 07:46:08 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Wed, 02 Sep 2026 07:46:08 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/1e9423dc4ddd334569afc965630ce743df1fe841/1536&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x80&amp;resize=1536x864" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/1e9423dc4ddd334569afc965630ce743df1fe841/1536&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1024x1024"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Living alone costs more than $4,000 a month in some of the world&apos;s most expensive cities, but the size of the bill tells only half the story.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[The duality of financial abuse against women]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/the-duality-of-financial-abuse-against-women-9bfc758f-6ca8-47a2-8228-30e36ae6cdb6</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/the-duality-of-financial-abuse-against-women-9bfc758f-6ca8-47a2-8228-30e36ae6cdb6</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Mon, 31 Aug 2026 10:44:04 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Mon, 31 Aug 2026 10:44:04 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/23e17f4720f3c16601a186c62f5909f1277eba3b/3840&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=3840x2160" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/23e17f4720f3c16601a186c62f5909f1277eba3b/3840&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=2160x2160"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Economic abuse against women can include male partners refusing to contribute, exploiting their income and leaving them carrying household costs and debt.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Subscriptions gone, eating out cut, but South Africans still can’t cope]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/subscriptions-gone-eating-out-cut-but-south-africans-still-cant-cope-f423b41e-0343-48a1-b1fc-8f4a47507d0c</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/subscriptions-gone-eating-out-cut-but-south-africans-still-cant-cope-f423b41e-0343-48a1-b1fc-8f4a47507d0c</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Mon, 31 Aug 2026 08:34:27 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Mon, 31 Aug 2026 08:34:27 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/2377d4f4fea16d65de4a5bcf0d6992c40e78d677/5113&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x2&amp;resize=5113x2876" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/2377d4f4fea16d65de4a5bcf0d6992c40e78d677/5113&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=2880x2880"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>South Africans are cutting spending, cancelling subscriptions and trying to pay down debt, but nearly four in 10 still expect to miss a payment as the margin for financial error shrinks.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[SA’s workplace gender divide laid bare]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/jobs/sas-workplace-gender-divide-laid-bare-9f599896-dfca-43d1-be0a-7ce4c1292a26</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/jobs/sas-workplace-gender-divide-laid-bare-9f599896-dfca-43d1-be0a-7ce4c1292a26</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Mon, 31 Aug 2026 08:31:54 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Mon, 31 Aug 2026 08:31:54 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/699d927c6ad0610a74629ee4af2df3e7044e2151/1600&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1600x900" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/699d927c6ad0610a74629ee4af2df3e7044e2151/1600&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=900x900"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Women make up almost half of South Africa’s workforce, but new data shows a divide between the industries and jobs dominated by women and those where they remain conspicuously absent.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Trapped by money: The hidden abuse controlling women’s lives]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/trapped-by-money-the-hidden-abuse-controlling-womens-lives-b7b7727d-dfd7-4e01-a56e-7ce567964fe4</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/trapped-by-money-the-hidden-abuse-controlling-womens-lives-b7b7727d-dfd7-4e01-a56e-7ce567964fe4</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Mon, 31 Aug 2026 08:24:43 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Mon, 31 Aug 2026 08:24:43 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/6cd7cd1c3b496fc40dc0d1b2850422dc90d92dd1/1600&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1600x900" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/6cd7cd1c3b496fc40dc0d1b2850422dc90d92dd1/1600&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=900x900"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Financial abuse can affect women across income levels, with control over money and access to financial resources often making it harder to leave abusive relationships.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Your retirement savings, emergency funds and fuel storage answered]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/retirement/your-retirement-savings-emergency-funds-and-fuel-storage-answered-0f998021-18af-48fe-8cc9-e6a99e42d1ab</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/retirement/your-retirement-savings-emergency-funds-and-fuel-storage-answered-0f998021-18af-48fe-8cc9-e6a99e42d1ab</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[PSG (Sponsored content)]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 27 Aug 2026 17:03:40 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 27 Aug 2026 17:03:40 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/7fee1bd3916b786dadfc39b400cc6b304234adab/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x50&amp;resize=2000x1125" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/7fee1bd3916b786dadfc39b400cc6b304234adab/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1332x1332"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>PSG answers your retirement savings, emergency funds and fuel storage.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Are South Africans earning less? Let's look at salary trends and inflation]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/jobs/are-south-africans-earning-less-lets-look-at-salary-trends-and-inflation-bb18584e-fe17-44c5-9696-d9ba468c1544</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/jobs/are-south-africans-earning-less-lets-look-at-salary-trends-and-inflation-bb18584e-fe17-44c5-9696-d9ba468c1544</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Wed, 26 Aug 2026 09:47:51 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Wed, 26 Aug 2026 09:47:51 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/3ae37651a74e7ccd0e1a8dd2d8bb5fac52080c07/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x105&amp;resize=2000x1125" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/3ae37651a74e7ccd0e1a8dd2d8bb5fac52080c07/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1335x1335"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Lower inflation gave salary earners some relief in July, but South Africans&apos; take-home pay remains lower in real terms than it was a year ago.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Retirement warning: Half of fund members have cashed out their retirement savings]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/jobs/retirement-warning-half-of-fund-members-have-cashed-out-their-retirement-savings-31ca3d64-237e-43b8-b104-7322ac498561</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/jobs/retirement-warning-half-of-fund-members-have-cashed-out-their-retirement-savings-31ca3d64-237e-43b8-b104-7322ac498561</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Mon, 24 Aug 2026 13:16:25 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Mon, 24 Aug 2026 13:16:25 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/733f000ce18ea69e2c7bc2deea7b6d0325167353/1600&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x1&amp;resize=1600x900" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/733f000ce18ea69e2c7bc2deea7b6d0325167353/1600&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=902x902"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Debt doesn&apos;t stay at home as financial stress can follow employees into the workplace, affecting concentration, motivation, wellbeing and performance.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Protect your financial independence: Understand what you sign]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/protect-your-financial-independence-understand-what-you-sign-37a3d2ed-5b0e-4a68-871c-1b06d8a9c645</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/protect-your-financial-independence-understand-what-you-sign-37a3d2ed-5b0e-4a68-871c-1b06d8a9c645</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Wed, 19 Aug 2026 09:01:33 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Wed, 19 Aug 2026 09:01:33 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/5bf798b14858829291303f31fc54d503a142d1a9/1600&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x1&amp;resize=1600x900" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/5bf798b14858829291303f31fc54d503a142d1a9/1600&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=901x901"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>For women, financial independence is not only about earning and saving. It also means understanding the agreements that can create long-term financial obligations.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Luxury living: Why South Africa's luxury properties are worth every penny]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/property/luxury-living-why-south-africas-luxury-properties-are-worth-every-penny-3e0f34d0-d655-4180-b36c-577080150c93</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/property/luxury-living-why-south-africas-luxury-properties-are-worth-every-penny-3e0f34d0-d655-4180-b36c-577080150c93</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Mon, 17 Aug 2026 08:29:19 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Mon, 17 Aug 2026 08:29:19 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/c5c1d8b635a4c5dc7486c29c4892ef9a7f22a66c/1177&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1177x662" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/c5c1d8b635a4c5dc7486c29c4892ef9a7f22a66c/1177&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=662x662"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>R60 million will buy you a luxury home in Gauteng, while the average selling price in Bishopscourt is R30 million, Seeff data shows.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Women manage debt better than men but face higher financial stress: report]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/savings/women-manage-debt-better-than-men-but-face-higher-financial-stress-report-99967fab-353c-4de7-bf06-81dcd82dd13d</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/savings/women-manage-debt-better-than-men-but-face-higher-financial-stress-report-99967fab-353c-4de7-bf06-81dcd82dd13d</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Fri, 14 Aug 2026 15:37:03 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Fri, 14 Aug 2026 15:37:03 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/a962fc739153eaaab54931219d27486adbe66d50/1600&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=2x0&amp;resize=1596x898" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/a962fc739153eaaab54931219d27486adbe66d50/1600&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=898x898"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Women borrow less and repay more reliably than men, but they are more financially stressed, and the pressure is spilling into their homes.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[The numbers behind South African women’s 70-year fight for equality]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/the-numbers-behind-south-african-womens-70-year-fight-for-equality-97bdbcfe-8442-488c-9ef5-2c8dd9d6f3e9</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/the-numbers-behind-south-african-womens-70-year-fight-for-equality-97bdbcfe-8442-488c-9ef5-2c8dd9d6f3e9</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Fri, 14 Aug 2026 08:32:49 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Fri, 14 Aug 2026 08:32:49 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/25194a87a94ba7c864e3b947aa43c1799fa49f84/3246&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x3&amp;resize=3246x1826" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/25194a87a94ba7c864e3b947aa43c1799fa49f84/3246&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1831x1831"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Seventy years after the Women&apos;s March, South African women are better educated, wealthier and more independent – but broader labour stats tell a different story.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[The deposit squeeze isn’t stopping South Africans from buying homes]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/property/the-deposit-squeeze-isnt-stopping-south-africans-from-buying-homes-e9aa097a-3d61-4ed6-ae10-504eb1a0b8fc</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/property/the-deposit-squeeze-isnt-stopping-south-africans-from-buying-homes-e9aa097a-3d61-4ed6-ae10-504eb1a0b8fc</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 13 Aug 2026 13:33:46 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 13 Aug 2026 13:33:46 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/f840efdc69920d9b2a7faa89c25aa9d84289baf4/1995&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1995x1122" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/f840efdc69920d9b2a7faa89c25aa9d84289baf4/1995&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1122x1122"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>South Africa’s property market remained resilient, with rising home loans and incomes supporting demand while luxury estates attracted high-value buyers.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[South Africans turn to credit as financial pressure builds]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/south-africans-turn-to-credit-as-financial-pressure-builds-5279d597-2a49-4aff-9810-3c7019d40322</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/south-africans-turn-to-credit-as-financial-pressure-builds-5279d597-2a49-4aff-9810-3c7019d40322</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Wed, 12 Aug 2026 09:10:47 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Wed, 12 Aug 2026 09:10:47 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/e4bf085554dcea0d6b70d673518c5222c1db41f3/1987&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1987x1118" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/e4bf085554dcea0d6b70d673518c5222c1db41f3/1987&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1118x1118"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>A new debt index points to rising financial pressure as South Africans increasingly turn to credit to manage household costs.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Love is blind, deaf, and even stupid]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/love-is-blind-deaf-and-even-stupid-f582f9f5-f2ef-43cf-b1de-6dd8007c812c</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/love-is-blind-deaf-and-even-stupid-f582f9f5-f2ef-43cf-b1de-6dd8007c812c</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Tue, 11 Aug 2026 11:57:41 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Tue, 11 Aug 2026 11:57:41 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/38cd4f69654861016190e2ff49c107b1a6a9229b/3648&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x1&amp;resize=3648x2052" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/38cd4f69654861016190e2ff49c107b1a6a9229b/3648&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=2053x2053"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Couples happily discuss where to live and how to decorate, but financial experts say many avoid the money conversations that matter most.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[The hidden costs of love: Financial risks for women in relationships]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/the-hidden-costs-of-love-financial-risks-for-women-in-relationships-8d9f1f71-6070-48c8-b9af-9f92dda8b905</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/the-hidden-costs-of-love-financial-risks-for-women-in-relationships-8d9f1f71-6070-48c8-b9af-9f92dda8b905</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Fri, 07 Aug 2026 08:48:29 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Fri, 07 Aug 2026 08:48:29 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/d401e89a37044ad7f6b4a1bd5bf7caccecef9415/2564&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=2564x1442" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/d401e89a37044ad7f6b4a1bd5bf7caccecef9415/2564&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x29&amp;resize=1442x1442"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>As marriage rates fall and more couples cohabit, women are bearing the biggest financial risk when relationships end without legal protection.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[This is how more women are choosing to build wealth and secure the bag]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/this-is-how-more-women-are-choosing-to-build-wealth-and-secure-the-bag-6bae5f38-011b-483c-b0b7-797ded1e9546</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/this-is-how-more-women-are-choosing-to-build-wealth-and-secure-the-bag-6bae5f38-011b-483c-b0b7-797ded1e9546</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Fri, 07 Aug 2026 08:10:57 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Fri, 07 Aug 2026 08:10:57 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/2e18007542b333b8c0ea6810774897cf2dead8a5/1600&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x1&amp;resize=1600x900" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/2e18007542b333b8c0ea6810774897cf2dead8a5/1600&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=901x901"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>More South African women are entering the property market as first-time buyers, using home ownership as a foundation for financial independence and long-term wealth creation.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Homeowner wins justice after lawyer's theft of sale proceeds]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/homeowner-wins-justice-after-lawyers-theft-of-sale-proceeds-d0c3e0bd-da35-42d5-a024-35ef8b3552d0</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/homeowner-wins-justice-after-lawyers-theft-of-sale-proceeds-d0c3e0bd-da35-42d5-a024-35ef8b3552d0</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 06 Aug 2026 09:14:05 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 06 Aug 2026 09:14:05 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/f0639df9bfb0328dd9ca949538040df607cf9532/1536&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x80&amp;resize=1536x864" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/f0639df9bfb0328dd9ca949538040df607cf9532/1536&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1024x1024"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>A confiscation order has finally brought financial relief to a homeowner nearly two decades after her attorney stole the proceeds of her house sale.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[From food to fuel: How South Africa’s cost-of-living crisis is reshaping daily life]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/from-food-to-fuel-how-south-africas-cost-of-living-crisis-is-reshaping-daily-life-0ce53ea9-7c27-4a57-98b5-ac5f4d3c45a6</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/from-food-to-fuel-how-south-africas-cost-of-living-crisis-is-reshaping-daily-life-0ce53ea9-7c27-4a57-98b5-ac5f4d3c45a6</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Fri, 31 Jul 2026 13:41:23 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Fri, 31 Jul 2026 13:41:23 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/59347ee9fc84b7679a05a390d104055020fa6cf7/1536&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x80&amp;resize=1536x864" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/59347ee9fc84b7679a05a390d104055020fa6cf7/1536&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1024x1024"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>From food baskets to home loans, the numbers tell the same story: South Africans are running out of month before they run out of bills.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Think WhatsApp messages prove your relationship? Pension ruling says otherwise]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/think-whatsapp-messages-prove-your-relationship-pension-ruling-says-otherwise-bbbbfd15-7b8a-4849-aac3-6968b5e0ed5a</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/think-whatsapp-messages-prove-your-relationship-pension-ruling-says-otherwise-bbbbfd15-7b8a-4849-aac3-6968b5e0ed5a</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 30 Jul 2026 13:29:58 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 30 Jul 2026 13:29:58 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/7af9b0b3bd1d1cfc6f33291c05ea239093abc911/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1672x941" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/7af9b0b3bd1d1cfc6f33291c05ea239093abc911/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=941x941"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>A recent pension dispute shows that WhatsApp messages alone won&apos;t determine who inherits a death benefit, with trustees required to consider the full picture of a relationship.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Understanding the Labour Court's decision on picketing and employee rights]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/understanding-the-labour-courts-decision-on-picketing-and-employee-rights-3246cc0e-cfd7-4a64-9293-d8b32a3e90d4</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/understanding-the-labour-courts-decision-on-picketing-and-employee-rights-3246cc0e-cfd7-4a64-9293-d8b32a3e90d4</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Keshni Naicker]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 30 Jul 2026 08:31:08 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 30 Jul 2026 08:31:08 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/0d6c84c27242ff4251c8f549a7124ae0d770c114/1536&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x80&amp;resize=1536x864" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/0d6c84c27242ff4251c8f549a7124ae0d770c114/1536&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1024x1024"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>The Labour Court&apos;s ruling on a controversial picketing incident highlights the importance of evidentiary burden and procedural fairness in employee dismissals.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[5 money mistakes that sabotage your savings]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/5-money-mistakes-that-sabotage-your-savings-e20f3c6b-1dda-440e-b228-9668e15e2853</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/5-money-mistakes-that-sabotage-your-savings-e20f3c6b-1dda-440e-b228-9668e15e2853</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Salem Nyati]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 30 Jul 2026 08:30:59 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 30 Jul 2026 08:30:59 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/0ab17dce76ffad67cba3625d6ba14f95676add23/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x351&amp;resize=2000x1125" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/0ab17dce76ffad67cba3625d6ba14f95676add23/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1827x1827"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Discover the five common financial habits that undermine your savings efforts and learn practical strategies to build a more secure financial future.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Understanding recent South African tax judgments: key lessons for businesses]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/understanding-recent-south-african-tax-judgments-key-lessons-for-businesses-7a9f24a6-edee-4d40-b987-b00ca8fabeff</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/understanding-recent-south-african-tax-judgments-key-lessons-for-businesses-7a9f24a6-edee-4d40-b987-b00ca8fabeff</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Willem Oberholzer]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 30 Jul 2026 08:30:48 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 30 Jul 2026 08:30:48 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/17b55ec5bbf8ddfce68e642f7f084a3eb2d921a2/1120&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x39&amp;resize=1120x630" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/17b55ec5bbf8ddfce68e642f7f084a3eb2d921a2/1120&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=707x707"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Four recent tax judgments in South Africa signal a shift in how the courts assess tax planning strategies. This article explores the implications for businesses, highlighting the importance of economic substance, documentation, and compliance.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Review your budget: how to stay on track halfway through the year]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/review-your-budget-how-to-stay-on-track-halfway-through-the-year-ca32925d-8531-43e1-bc92-26a840e2e18d</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/review-your-budget-how-to-stay-on-track-halfway-through-the-year-ca32925d-8531-43e1-bc92-26a840e2e18d</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Lucia Malapane]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 30 Jul 2026 07:59:14 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 30 Jul 2026 07:59:14 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/0de28ce1207586acee25215e0040a8b57aa805c3/1280&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x67&amp;resize=1280x720" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/0de28ce1207586acee25215e0040a8b57aa805c3/1280&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=853x853"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Halfway through the year, it&apos;s time to assess your budgeting progress. Discover practical tips to realign your financial goals and make the most of the remaining months.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[The importance of early retirement savings for young South Africans]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/the-importance-of-early-retirement-savings-for-young-south-africans-5db62207-89ed-4b57-8a18-ef79929e7872</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/the-importance-of-early-retirement-savings-for-young-south-africans-5db62207-89ed-4b57-8a18-ef79929e7872</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Linda Kleynscheldt]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 30 Jul 2026 07:58:59 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 30 Jul 2026 07:58:59 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/0de28ce1207586acee25215e0040a8b57aa805c3/1280&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x67&amp;resize=1280x720" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/0de28ce1207586acee25215e0040a8b57aa805c3/1280&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=853x853"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Discover why saving for retirement is crucial for young South Africans and learn practical strategies to start building a secure financial future today.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Point of view: how to protect yourself from tax season scams]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/point-of-view-how-to-protect-yourself-from-tax-season-scams-20a2ae44-4bca-4dac-b569-8e71aa92b50a</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/point-of-view-how-to-protect-yourself-from-tax-season-scams-20a2ae44-4bca-4dac-b569-8e71aa92b50a</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dieketseng Maleke]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 30 Jul 2026 07:58:46 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 30 Jul 2026 07:58:46 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/cb0a2ecefde875e5253032c26be799021bc1636c/600&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=33x0&amp;resize=533x300" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/cb0a2ecefde875e5253032c26be799021bc1636c/600&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=300x300"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>With tax season upon us, South African taxpayers must be aware of the rising threat of fraud. This article explores the latest scams targeting taxpayers and offers essential tips for staying safe during the filing process.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[The hidden costs of caregiving: how daughters bear the financial burden]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/the-hidden-costs-of-caregiving-how-daughters-bear-the-financial-burden-cbfd5823-e80f-4aa5-a248-f763a9bd2151</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/the-hidden-costs-of-caregiving-how-daughters-bear-the-financial-burden-cbfd5823-e80f-4aa5-a248-f763a9bd2151</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dieketseng Maleke]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 30 Jul 2026 07:58:37 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 30 Jul 2026 07:58:37 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/9b871193239c9ec2f93e4fc9f2ff96651d3ce4ce/6000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x315&amp;resize=6000x3375" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/9b871193239c9ec2f93e4fc9f2ff96651d3ce4ce/6000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=4004x4004"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Explore the financial implications of unpaid caregiving responsibilities faced by daughters in South Africa, as experts highlight the urgent need for financial planning and support systems to ensure women&apos;s financial security.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Why you should think twice before spending your retirement savings]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/why-you-should-think-twice-before-spending-your-retirement-savings-fc77e3e4-cae3-4ab5-8700-510d45063bf0</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/why-you-should-think-twice-before-spending-your-retirement-savings-fc77e3e4-cae3-4ab5-8700-510d45063bf0</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Niki Giles]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Wed, 29 Jul 2026 18:54:10 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Wed, 29 Jul 2026 18:54:10 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/0145b2b5e928f7a09710d658adae767cc7adf232/2816&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=43x0&amp;resize=2731x1536" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/0145b2b5e928f7a09710d658adae767cc7adf232/2816&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1536x1536"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Every July, Savings Month prompts South Africans to save more for the future. This year, let&apos;s focus on the importance of preserving your existing savings and the risks of premature withdrawals from your retirement fund.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Life partnership at centre of R8.3m pension benefit dispute]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/life-partnership-at-centre-of-r83m-pension-benefit-dispute-5d61ea1c-0291-459b-ac59-e789cfde7bd0</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/life-partnership-at-centre-of-r83m-pension-benefit-dispute-5d61ea1c-0291-459b-ac59-e789cfde7bd0</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dieketseng Maleke]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Wed, 29 Jul 2026 18:53:53 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Wed, 29 Jul 2026 18:53:53 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/7df64d211162ab0ca2fe21f315940bcdd0d54630/1783&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x499&amp;resize=1783x1003" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/7df64d211162ab0ca2fe21f315940bcdd0d54630/1783&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1783x1783"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>A recent dispute over a R8.3 million pension fund death benefit reveals the complexities of recognising permanent life partnerships under South African law, as the Pension Funds Adjudicator weighs the claims of a deceased member&apos;s sister against those of his long-term partner.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Coughing up cash: How flu season hits your wallet]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/coughing-up-cash-how-flu-season-hits-your-wallet-7489503a-02a2-49b2-8e7c-8a705a876b54</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/coughing-up-cash-how-flu-season-hits-your-wallet-7489503a-02a2-49b2-8e7c-8a705a876b54</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Wed, 29 Jul 2026 15:17:03 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Wed, 29 Jul 2026 15:17:03 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/a137f4ed545ebbd10e389ffa6c7afe53c7684be7/1600&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1600x900" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/a137f4ed545ebbd10e389ffa6c7afe53c7684be7/1600&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=16x0&amp;resize=900x900"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>From R800 Tamiflu courses to R11,000 illness episodes, this winter&apos;s flu season is extracting a steep financial toll – and with snow forecast for Gauteng, it may not be over yet.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Are you getting in your own way? Why the 'patience premium' is the key to financial stability]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/are-you-getting-in-your-own-way-why-the-patience-premium-is-the-key-to-financial-stability-8076a280-7615-46df-a26c-8efe855142c8</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/are-you-getting-in-your-own-way-why-the-patience-premium-is-the-key-to-financial-stability-8076a280-7615-46df-a26c-8efe855142c8</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Kashif Noor]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Wed, 29 Jul 2026 05:24:28 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Wed, 29 Jul 2026 05:24:28 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/ecfab87de10198013463ac4f6c3a0cbb3f662c21/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x4&amp;resize=2000x1125" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/ecfab87de10198013463ac4f6c3a0cbb3f662c21/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1132x1132"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>National Savings Month traditionally focuses on encouraging South Africans to save more and spend less. However, for those who already have an investment portfolio, the real challenge is whether they have the discipline to stay fully invested when anxiety pushes them to act.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Protecting your valuables: a guide for South African consumers]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/protecting-your-valuables-a-guide-for-south-african-consumers-650a935a-a52f-41e8-8cfd-db9aad6a8848</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/protecting-your-valuables-a-guide-for-south-african-consumers-650a935a-a52f-41e8-8cfd-db9aad6a8848</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Sherry Sibeko]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Tue, 28 Jul 2026 20:19:26 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Tue, 28 Jul 2026 20:19:26 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/afb3598cae87ddf954efd3a1b305d0f222d4fe77/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x104&amp;resize=2000x1125" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/afb3598cae87ddf954efd3a1b305d0f222d4fe77/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1333x1333"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Explore the increasing reliance of South Africans on personal technology and the financial implications of losing these essential items. Learn how to protect your valuables and understand the importance of adequate insurance coverage.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[The role of behavioural science in improving saving habits for South Africans]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/the-role-of-behavioural-science-in-improving-saving-habits-for-south-africans-effdc073-9d34-48bd-850a-1ab094266caa</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/the-role-of-behavioural-science-in-improving-saving-habits-for-south-africans-effdc073-9d34-48bd-850a-1ab094266caa</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Shalia Naidoo]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Mon, 27 Jul 2026 12:24:25 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Mon, 27 Jul 2026 12:24:25 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/d3d123bae45191b013507eb35d4029fd27d5a748/1202&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x16&amp;resize=1202x676" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/d3d123bae45191b013507eb35d4029fd27d5a748/1202&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=709x709"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Explore how understanding the psychology behind financial decision-making can empower South Africans to develop healthier saving habits and achieve long-term financial goals.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[The bankruptcy data no one saw for five years]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/the-bankruptcy-data-no-one-saw-for-five-years-49455f78-09e2-43a2-ad18-15c64e7f5845</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/the-bankruptcy-data-no-one-saw-for-five-years-49455f78-09e2-43a2-ad18-15c64e7f5845</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Mon, 27 Jul 2026 11:05:05 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Mon, 27 Jul 2026 11:05:05 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/6b8b5abc8d28f083a5aa8c50b5a89937935a1ef8/1600&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1600x900" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/6b8b5abc8d28f083a5aa8c50b5a89937935a1ef8/1600&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=900x900"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>South Africa&apos;s insolvency statistics vanished for five years. The revived data shows bankruptcies have fallen sharply – but households remain under pressure.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Navigating financial uncertainty: how South Africans are coping with economic challenges]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/navigating-financial-uncertainty-how-south-africans-are-coping-with-economic-challenges-58d33312-333c-4841-8552-570de729f062</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/navigating-financial-uncertainty-how-south-africans-are-coping-with-economic-challenges-58d33312-333c-4841-8552-570de729f062</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Tando Ngibe]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Mon, 27 Jul 2026 05:35:53 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Mon, 27 Jul 2026 05:35:53 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/1a82315dfdce99d6472b09d8d12d4a62a75293e0/6046&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x317&amp;resize=6046x3401" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/1a82315dfdce99d6472b09d8d12d4a62a75293e0/6046&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=4035x4035"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Despite ongoing financial pressures, a new survey reveals that 37% of South Africans feel their financial wellbeing has improved. However, uncertainty about the future looms large, with many consumers struggling to save and prioritising essential insurance.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[How to balance emergency funds and investments for financial resilience]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/how-to-balance-emergency-funds-and-investments-for-financial-resilience-16a4068c-cdb9-49e3-aa31-5faf94cbe0a0</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/how-to-balance-emergency-funds-and-investments-for-financial-resilience-16a4068c-cdb9-49e3-aa31-5faf94cbe0a0</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Sharon Hamman]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Mon, 27 Jul 2026 05:35:50 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Mon, 27 Jul 2026 05:35:50 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/aee5c933b4754caf3a3da01275c89591e62e584f/676&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x5&amp;resize=676x380" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/aee5c933b4754caf3a3da01275c89591e62e584f/676&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=391x391"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Discover how to achieve financial resilience by balancing emergency funds and investments. This article explores practical strategies to help you secure your present while building long-term wealth.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[No rate hike, but no relief either]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/no-rate-hike-but-no-relief-either-ce3d45b4-555e-4f0d-abe3-ba535262ccd9</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/no-rate-hike-but-no-relief-either-ce3d45b4-555e-4f0d-abe3-ba535262ccd9</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Sun, 26 Jul 2026 19:11:04 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Sun, 26 Jul 2026 19:11:04 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/8a61bd5c2260c1d49f4b57b9936dfc42d3327946/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1672x941" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/8a61bd5c2260c1d49f4b57b9936dfc42d3327946/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=941x941"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>The Reserve Bank held rates steady, but with inflation at 5% and South Africans skipping meals to make ends meet, relief only goes so far.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[5 common insurance myths South Africans need to stop believing]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/5-common-insurance-myths-south-africans-need-to-stop-believing-a1a77865-2963-4ebf-af1a-55329b59318f</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/5-common-insurance-myths-south-africans-need-to-stop-believing-a1a77865-2963-4ebf-af1a-55329b59318f</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Sakina Ntuli]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Sun, 26 Jul 2026 17:26:14 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Sun, 26 Jul 2026 17:26:14 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/dec4ce2bf482cd618e38dfa50ef80bbf2de231b2/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=2x0&amp;resize=1996x1123" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/dec4ce2bf482cd618e38dfa50ef80bbf2de231b2/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1123x1123"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Discover the top 5 insurance myths that could lead to costly mistakes for South Africans. Learn the truth behind these misconceptions to ensure you&apos;re adequately covered.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Home sweet home-made utilities: When the municipal grid becomes an optional extra]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/home-sweet-home-made-utilities-when-the-municipal-grid-becomes-an-optional-extra-32873cab-d1fe-4b92-8248-131a41e3cc4a</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/home-sweet-home-made-utilities-when-the-municipal-grid-becomes-an-optional-extra-32873cab-d1fe-4b92-8248-131a41e3cc4a</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Fri, 24 Jul 2026 12:41:25 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Fri, 24 Jul 2026 12:41:25 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/db44ac3f4e9046aef2e143a63b09bd5d5ceb2f03/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1672x941" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/db44ac3f4e9046aef2e143a63b09bd5d5ceb2f03/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=941x941"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Going off-grid is increasingly about building a home that&apos;s less vulnerable to failing municipal services, rising utility bills and infrastructure failures.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[The risks of using unregistered tax preparers in South Africa]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/the-risks-of-using-unregistered-tax-preparers-in-south-africa-bbad283e-5868-4cfc-b86a-c9eb8a86c876</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/the-risks-of-using-unregistered-tax-preparers-in-south-africa-bbad283e-5868-4cfc-b86a-c9eb8a86c876</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[South African Institute of taxation]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Fri, 24 Jul 2026 07:30:35 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Fri, 24 Jul 2026 07:30:35 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/f1636a4668e55d17e4f2d897a01b759144931728/635&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=635x357" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/f1636a4668e55d17e4f2d897a01b759144931728/635&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=357x357"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Discover the risks associated with using unregistered tax preparers and learn how to protect yourself from fraud and compliance issues by verifying your tax practitioner.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Will interest rates rise or fall next? SARB says both are still on the table]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/will-interest-rates-rise-or-fall-next-sarb-says-both-are-still-on-the-table-2bb4d631-1950-4e27-baf8-2583fa8480bd</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/will-interest-rates-rise-or-fall-next-sarb-says-both-are-still-on-the-table-2bb4d631-1950-4e27-baf8-2583fa8480bd</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Fri, 24 Jul 2026 07:26:19 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Fri, 24 Jul 2026 07:26:19 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/260599dc5561767e1f56ecaac112e13e92ff749d/1120&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1120x630" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/260599dc5561767e1f56ecaac112e13e92ff749d/1120&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=630x630"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>The Reserve Bank has hit pause on interest rates, but says the path ahead will depend on whether inflation pressures ease or intensify in the months ahead.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[How to build a winning investment portfolio]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/how-to-build-a-winning-investment-portfolio-3ca67f3e-b6d9-45c2-a606-45adedfbfc23</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/how-to-build-a-winning-investment-portfolio-3ca67f3e-b6d9-45c2-a606-45adedfbfc23</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Siyabulela Nomoyi]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 23 Jul 2026 16:35:46 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 23 Jul 2026 16:35:46 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/ecfab87de10198013463ac4f6c3a0cbb3f662c21/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x4&amp;resize=2000x1125" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/ecfab87de10198013463ac4f6c3a0cbb3f662c21/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1132x1132"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Discover how to create a balanced investment portfolio that works like a winning sports team. Learn about the roles of different asset classes and how to strategically allocate your investments for long-term success.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[The future of employee benefits: insights from Salt's 70th Anniversary]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/the-future-of-employee-benefits-insights-from-salts-70th-anniversary-71e67517-1c6a-48fa-a299-24746491bbf2</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/the-future-of-employee-benefits-insights-from-salts-70th-anniversary-71e67517-1c6a-48fa-a299-24746491bbf2</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dieketseng Maleke]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 23 Jul 2026 16:35:35 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 23 Jul 2026 16:35:35 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/b7e0195fdd14fc02b968e19c738a1f80a71b6fb4/4160&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x494&amp;resize=4160x2340" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/b7e0195fdd14fc02b968e19c738a1f80a71b6fb4/4160&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=3328x3328"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>During Salt Employee Benefits&apos; 70th anniversary, chairman Eddie Strydom emphasises the need for structural reform in South Africa&apos;s employee benefits industry to improve retirement outcomes for members. He discusses the challenges of compliance, administration, and the importance of member representation.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[National Savings Month: a guide to effective saving and investing]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/national-savings-month-a-guide-to-effective-saving-and-investing-85d51242-5376-4f04-9e5f-43d8cc8987ad</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/national-savings-month-a-guide-to-effective-saving-and-investing-85d51242-5376-4f04-9e5f-43d8cc8987ad</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Niki Giles]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 23 Jul 2026 16:34:13 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 23 Jul 2026 16:34:13 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/0ab17dce76ffad67cba3625d6ba14f95676add23/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x351&amp;resize=2000x1125" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/0ab17dce76ffad67cba3625d6ba14f95676add23/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1827x1827"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>July is National Savings Month in South Africa, a time to reassess your financial strategy and enhance your saving habits. Discover effective ways to maximise your retirement savings, utilise tax-free accounts, and explore investment options like ETFs to build long-term wealth.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Saving is hard enough - don't let fraudsters steal your progress]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/saving-is-hard-enough-dont-let-fraudsters-steal-your-progress-4520b540-439d-43fc-ac7a-ef0484a0ea1e</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/saving-is-hard-enough-dont-let-fraudsters-steal-your-progress-4520b540-439d-43fc-ac7a-ef0484a0ea1e</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Sponsored Content]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 23 Jul 2026 16:34:05 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 23 Jul 2026 16:34:05 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/d3d123bae45191b013507eb35d4029fd27d5a748/1202&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x16&amp;resize=1202x676" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/d3d123bae45191b013507eb35d4029fd27d5a748/1202&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=709x709"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>The 2025 Debt Rescue Consumer Savings Survey found that only 18% of South Africans save more than 10% of their monthly income, while 27% do not save at all. According to National Treasury estimates, only around 6% of South Africans retire with sufficient income to maintain their standard of living.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Your financial, budgeting and insurance questions answered]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/your-financial-budgeting-and-insurance-questions-answered-8025f56b-f5e9-4279-8765-55969ce51efd</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/your-financial-budgeting-and-insurance-questions-answered-8025f56b-f5e9-4279-8765-55969ce51efd</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[PSG (Sponsored content)]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 23 Jul 2026 16:33:54 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 23 Jul 2026 16:33:54 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/a14264c94f8219101df004b75c21d17f1d75a9d3/700&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=30x0&amp;resize=640x360" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/a14264c94f8219101df004b75c21d17f1d75a9d3/700&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=360x360"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>PSG answers your financial, budgeting, and insurance questions.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[WATCH: SARB holds rates even as inflation spikes]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/watch-sarb-holds-rates-even-as-inflation-spikes-6fa785f5-7af1-46f8-8933-c9ec1ed2da67</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/watch-sarb-holds-rates-even-as-inflation-spikes-6fa785f5-7af1-46f8-8933-c9ec1ed2da67</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 23 Jul 2026 14:38:24 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 23 Jul 2026 14:38:24 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/cffbe5c887a0a8d5c3f5f19fe38e67040afab821/1080&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1080x608" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/cffbe5c887a0a8d5c3f5f19fe38e67040afab821/1080&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=43x0&amp;resize=1080x1080"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>The central bank sees upside risks to inflation, which hinges on the war in Iran and could result in a hike.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[South Africa’s tax courts reshape the landscape for wealthy families and businesses]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/south-africas-tax-courts-reshape-the-landscape-for-wealthy-families-and-businesses-f1885432-d125-4378-b3df-35519418c0ff</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/south-africas-tax-courts-reshape-the-landscape-for-wealthy-families-and-businesses-f1885432-d125-4378-b3df-35519418c0ff</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Willem J Oberholzer]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 23 Jul 2026 13:59:18 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 23 Jul 2026 13:59:18 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/cd6f681db79dabfe01088acac64473940e1e6feb/2816&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=43x0&amp;resize=2731x1536" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/cd6f681db79dabfe01088acac64473940e1e6feb/2816&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1536x1536"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Recent tax court judgments in South Africa signal a shift in how tax risk is managed for wealthy families and business owners. This article explores key cases and their implications for tax compliance and governance.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Consumers are under pressure, so why are insolvencies falling?]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/consumers-are-under-pressure-so-why-are-insolvencies-falling-1604cada-efa0-4165-9174-f3e45778e6d1</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/consumers-are-under-pressure-so-why-are-insolvencies-falling-1604cada-efa0-4165-9174-f3e45778e6d1</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:44:17 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:44:17 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/5d2609e52ad73fbff1a6b88953958fd66857c59f/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1672x941" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/5d2609e52ad73fbff1a6b88953958fd66857c59f/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=941x941"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Official insolvencies are declining, even as rising inflation, mounting debt and relentless cost-of-living pressures continue squeezing South African households.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Avoiding financial regrets: lessons for young investors]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/avoiding-financial-regrets-lessons-for-young-investors-e1b04500-0c6d-476d-afc0-c984058fe851</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/avoiding-financial-regrets-lessons-for-young-investors-e1b04500-0c6d-476d-afc0-c984058fe851</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Annalise De Meillon-Muller]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 23 Jul 2026 06:22:54 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 23 Jul 2026 06:22:54 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/aee5c933b4754caf3a3da01275c89591e62e584f/676&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x5&amp;resize=676x380" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/aee5c933b4754caf3a3da01275c89591e62e584f/676&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=391x391"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Learn how early financial decisions and consistent behaviour can secure your financial future. Discover the importance of starting your savings and investments now to avoid regrets later.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[How to balance family support and personal finances in South Africa]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/how-to-balance-family-support-and-personal-finances-in-south-africa-7fdcd51e-13e7-46a4-a99f-9aeef71a19c3</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/how-to-balance-family-support-and-personal-finances-in-south-africa-7fdcd51e-13e7-46a4-a99f-9aeef71a19c3</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Simphiwe Mhlongo]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 23 Jul 2026 06:22:48 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 23 Jul 2026 06:22:48 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/cae9db698cc10db8b0ccdcb287a9d3db69c70914/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x47&amp;resize=2000x1125" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/cae9db698cc10db8b0ccdcb287a9d3db69c70914/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1219x1219"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Explore the financial challenges faced by young black South Africans who support their families. Learn practical tips for managing your finances while fulfilling family obligations.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[I was going to bet on a rate hold – then inflation hit 5%]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/news/opinion/i-was-going-to-bet-on-a-rate-hold-then-inflation-hit-5-1913cbe4-7a53-4662-84a7-f701b4c9c093</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/news/opinion/i-was-going-to-bet-on-a-rate-hold-then-inflation-hit-5-1913cbe4-7a53-4662-84a7-f701b4c9c093</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 23 Jul 2026 04:42:47 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 23 Jul 2026 04:42:47 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/68642e7feec181913361dec97602592fce33955c/1996&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x2&amp;resize=1996x1123" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/68642e7feec181913361dec97602592fce33955c/1996&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1444x1444"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>The Reserve Bank may hike rates this afternoon. Most South Africans are too busy trying to afford groceries to care.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[How financial stress drives absenteeism in South African workplaces]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/how-financial-stress-drives-absenteeism-in-south-african-workplaces-714ba434-2a0f-457e-8743-563725b9b068</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/how-financial-stress-drives-absenteeism-in-south-african-workplaces-714ba434-2a0f-457e-8743-563725b9b068</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dieketseng Maleke]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Wed, 22 Jul 2026 20:03:10 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Wed, 22 Jul 2026 20:03:10 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/8936025fae34616155d807d6d844cdd4e784a251/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=2000x1125" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/8936025fae34616155d807d6d844cdd4e784a251/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1125x1125"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Absenteeism is a significant yet often overlooked expense for South African businesses, costing the economy billions annually. This article explores the financial implications of absenteeism, its causes, and innovative solutions like earned wage access that can help improve employee attendance and productivity.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Fold8 and Flip8: Foldables, perfected for every way of living]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/partnered/samsung-galaxy-z-fold8-ultra-fold8-and-flip8-foldables-perfected-for-every-way-of-living-39372c08-3227-4cae-9a4f-2cf796a0ba1e</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/partnered/samsung-galaxy-z-fold8-ultra-fold8-and-flip8-foldables-perfected-for-every-way-of-living-39372c08-3227-4cae-9a4f-2cf796a0ba1e</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Partnered Content]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Wed, 22 Jul 2026 14:17:45 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Wed, 22 Jul 2026 14:17:45 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/acf94e660494a5afbde4f41fda8cfe4ba00b837f/1440&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x75&amp;resize=1440x810" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/acf94e660494a5afbde4f41fda8cfe4ba00b837f/1440&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=960x960"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>The all-new Galaxy Z series opens a new chapter in foldables with three distinct experiences designed for Ultra productivity, immersive discovery and self-expression</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Cost of living bites harder as inflation climbs to 5%]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/cost-of-living-bites-harder-as-inflation-climbs-to-5-4c988cbc-3614-4cb4-94e0-4bb7f84bcdf5</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/cost-of-living-bites-harder-as-inflation-climbs-to-5-4c988cbc-3614-4cb4-94e0-4bb7f84bcdf5</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Wed, 22 Jul 2026 08:50:29 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Wed, 22 Jul 2026 08:50:29 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/ee036de8143ed873fe864a353c7c153709a56085/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1672x941" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/ee036de8143ed873fe864a353c7c153709a56085/1672&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=941x941"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>The cost of living in June was higher than expected, moving to levels last seen two years ago.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Cost of living overtakes interest rates as South Africans' biggest financial stress, survey finds]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/cost-of-living-overtakes-interest-rates-as-south-africans-biggest-financial-stress-survey-finds-391287bc-5a02-4338-954b-2e5711ba5b68</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/cost-of-living-overtakes-interest-rates-as-south-africans-biggest-financial-stress-survey-finds-391287bc-5a02-4338-954b-2e5711ba5b68</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Wed, 22 Jul 2026 08:00:56 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Wed, 22 Jul 2026 08:00:56 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/8e92f3c3abf236b9db0c927f8381c4611777b113/3840&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=3840x2160" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/8e92f3c3abf236b9db0c927f8381c4611777b113/3840&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=2160x2160"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>The cost of living has overtaken interest rates as South Africans&apos; biggest financial worry, even as the MPC prepares to announce its latest decision on Thursday.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Sars modernisation: the shift towards automated tax assessments]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/sars-modernisation-the-shift-towards-automated-tax-assessments-59bb6000-adba-4ef6-b819-8a33e220545d</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/sars-modernisation-the-shift-towards-automated-tax-assessments-59bb6000-adba-4ef6-b819-8a33e220545d</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[South African Institute of taxation]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Wed, 22 Jul 2026 04:42:02 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Wed, 22 Jul 2026 04:42:02 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/17b55ec5bbf8ddfce68e642f7f084a3eb2d921a2/1120&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x39&amp;resize=1120x630" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/17b55ec5bbf8ddfce68e642f7f084a3eb2d921a2/1120&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=707x707"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Sars is undergoing a significant transformation with the introduction of automated tax assessments driven by AI. This article explores the implications of these changes for taxpayers, including the benefits and potential pitfalls of relying on automated systems.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Why your will needs to adapt for cross-border estate planning]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/why-your-will-needs-to-adapt-for-cross-border-estate-planning-a02b48a4-4a37-4166-adf7-42ca1a9a5fc7</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/why-your-will-needs-to-adapt-for-cross-border-estate-planning-a02b48a4-4a37-4166-adf7-42ca1a9a5fc7</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Elbe Thatcher]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Tue, 21 Jul 2026 18:16:17 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Tue, 21 Jul 2026 18:16:17 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/62ff083986a685c473a5fc994ced93816771940a/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=2x0&amp;resize=1996x1123" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/62ff083986a685c473a5fc994ced93816771940a/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1123x1123"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Discover the complexities of cross-border estate planning as we explore the importance of aligning wills across jurisdictions to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[How ambiguous insurance contracts can undermine income protection]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/how-ambiguous-insurance-contracts-can-undermine-income-protection-4a8a4176-7029-43ca-bc0b-68f46e8fdcd6</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/how-ambiguous-insurance-contracts-can-undermine-income-protection-4a8a4176-7029-43ca-bc0b-68f46e8fdcd6</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dieketseng Maleke]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Tue, 21 Jul 2026 17:36:09 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Tue, 21 Jul 2026 17:36:09 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/dec4ce2bf482cd618e38dfa50ef80bbf2de231b2/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=2x0&amp;resize=1996x1123" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/dec4ce2bf482cd618e38dfa50ef80bbf2de231b2/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1123x1123"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>This article explores a recent dispute over an income protection policy, highlighting the dangers of ambiguous insurance contracts and the importance of consumer vigilance in managing their insurance rights.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[The hidden cost of debt is hitting South African homes harder than ever]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/the-hidden-cost-of-debt-is-hitting-south-african-homes-harder-than-ever-96a3fc43-3f52-4aaa-b0a7-80c4d44f0375</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/the-hidden-cost-of-debt-is-hitting-south-african-homes-harder-than-ever-96a3fc43-3f52-4aaa-b0a7-80c4d44f0375</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Tue, 21 Jul 2026 11:30:26 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Tue, 21 Jul 2026 11:30:26 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/9c9d405d8b5601111d7c44136218d440a3adae48/3840&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=3840x2160" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/9c9d405d8b5601111d7c44136218d440a3adae48/3840&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=2160x2160"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Financial stress is taking a growing toll on South Africans&apos; mental health, with home-life pressure reaching a five-year high.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Navigating financial pressure: saving strategies for South Africans]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/navigating-financial-pressure-saving-strategies-for-south-africans-e4346c9d-e060-43ef-baf2-112417b55d15</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/navigating-financial-pressure-saving-strategies-for-south-africans-e4346c9d-e060-43ef-baf2-112417b55d15</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Thys van Zyl]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Mon, 20 Jul 2026 11:45:22 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Mon, 20 Jul 2026 11:45:22 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/0145b2b5e928f7a09710d658adae767cc7adf232/2816&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=43x0&amp;resize=2731x1536" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/0145b2b5e928f7a09710d658adae767cc7adf232/2816&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1536x1536"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>July marks National Savings Month, highlighting the financial struggles faced by many South Africans. This article explores the challenges of saving in a high-cost environment and offers practical advice for building financial resilience.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[South Africans are taking retirement planning seriously, report finds]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/south-africans-are-taking-retirement-planning-seriously-report-finds-80441c11-c8ba-401f-8d18-e871b31491ab</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/south-africans-are-taking-retirement-planning-seriously-report-finds-80441c11-c8ba-401f-8d18-e871b31491ab</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dieketseng Maleke]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Mon, 20 Jul 2026 11:45:11 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Mon, 20 Jul 2026 11:45:11 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/0de28ce1207586acee25215e0040a8b57aa805c3/1280&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x67&amp;resize=1280x720" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/0de28ce1207586acee25215e0040a8b57aa805c3/1280&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=853x853"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Discover the key findings from the 2026 FNB Retirement Insights Survey, revealing how South Africans are adapting their retirement planning amidst rising costs and economic challenges.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[What to do if you haven't been auto-assessed]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/what-to-do-if-you-havent-been-auto-assessed-dd1ee89c-765e-4980-8c02-b686bcad569b</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/what-to-do-if-you-havent-been-auto-assessed-dd1ee89c-765e-4980-8c02-b686bcad569b</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[The South African Institute of Taxation (SAIT)]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Mon, 20 Jul 2026 11:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Mon, 20 Jul 2026 11:45:00 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/f1636a4668e55d17e4f2d897a01b759144931728/635&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=635x357" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/f1636a4668e55d17e4f2d897a01b759144931728/635&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=357x357"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>With Sars opening Filing Season 2026, many taxpayers will not be auto-assessed. Discover why this happens and how consulting a SAIT practitioner can ensure your tax return is filed accurately and on time.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Will the Reserve Bank hold interest rates this week? The rand is making a strong case]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/will-the-reserve-bank-hold-interest-rates-this-week-the-rand-is-making-a-strong-case-10f0300a-32b0-4f4b-aa7d-1e56c7173b99</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/business/economy/will-the-reserve-bank-hold-interest-rates-this-week-the-rand-is-making-a-strong-case-10f0300a-32b0-4f4b-aa7d-1e56c7173b99</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicola Mawson]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Mon, 20 Jul 2026 10:46:28 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Mon, 20 Jul 2026 10:46:28 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/fc3260641b1b4d39d752326877f3f3e28a0cf76f/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x105&amp;resize=2000x1125" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/fc3260641b1b4d39d752326877f3f3e28a0cf76f/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1335x1335"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>How much influence the rand has on the South African Reserve Bank&apos;s next interest rate decision will come into focus on Thursday, with its resilience helping to offset inflation risks from higher oil prices.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[The psychology of saving: why it’s difficult and how to keep at it]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/the-psychology-of-saving-why-its-difficult-and-how-to-keep-at-it-c4bf15f9-a4bb-4da5-b77b-7f12abaf8c03</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/the-psychology-of-saving-why-its-difficult-and-how-to-keep-at-it-c4bf15f9-a4bb-4da5-b77b-7f12abaf8c03</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Bertie Nel]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Mon, 20 Jul 2026 06:11:54 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Mon, 20 Jul 2026 06:11:54 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/d3d123bae45191b013507eb35d4029fd27d5a748/1202&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x16&amp;resize=1202x676" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/d3d123bae45191b013507eb35d4029fd27d5a748/1202&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=709x709"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Explore the psychological factors that make saving money challenging and uncover actionable strategies to cultivate sustainable saving habits.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[How South Africa's new generation of retirees can protect their retirement pot]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/how-south-africas-new-generation-of-retirees-can-protect-their-retirement-pot-acdc980f-9929-4568-bcf4-8de2a9d7a262</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/how-south-africas-new-generation-of-retirees-can-protect-their-retirement-pot-acdc980f-9929-4568-bcf4-8de2a9d7a262</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Brett Caminsky]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Mon, 20 Jul 2026 06:11:49 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Mon, 20 Jul 2026 06:11:49 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/b83d147894ad1584686cff9afbcfcac1b7a3fb96/1536&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x80&amp;resize=1536x864" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/b83d147894ad1584686cff9afbcfcac1b7a3fb96/1536&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1024x1024"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>As South Africa marks National Savings Month, more people are working beyond retirement age. Here are five practical ways to protect your retirement savings while continuing to earn an income.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[The real cost of speeding: why a few minutes saved aren’t worth it]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/the-real-cost-of-speeding-why-a-few-minutes-saved-arent-worth-it-f0b0a61e-6534-4848-963a-ba1992728076</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/the-real-cost-of-speeding-why-a-few-minutes-saved-arent-worth-it-f0b0a61e-6534-4848-963a-ba1992728076</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Sherry Sibeko.]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Sun, 19 Jul 2026 19:10:30 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Sun, 19 Jul 2026 19:10:30 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/944a6acac19cb16f8518a2aeac53d652b74c6a5c/1024&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x224&amp;resize=1024x576" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/944a6acac19cb16f8518a2aeac53d652b74c6a5c/1024&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1024x1024"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Speeding doesn&apos;t just increase the risk of road accidents, it can also lead to higher repair bills, insurance complications and costly claims. Miway&apos;s Sherry Sibeko explains why slowing down, especially during winter, can protect both your safety and your finances.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[South Africans face financial challenges as inflation continues, report finds]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/south-africans-face-financial-challenges-as-inflation-continues-report-finds-1b759454-8801-4317-b8f7-e487440ab266</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/south-africans-face-financial-challenges-as-inflation-continues-report-finds-1b759454-8801-4317-b8f7-e487440ab266</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dieketseng Maleke]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 16 Jul 2026 11:28:25 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 16 Jul 2026 11:28:25 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/c2f7c4298b7579d027dcbe24b1d5f00048c17844/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x104&amp;resize=2000x1125" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/c2f7c4298b7579d027dcbe24b1d5f00048c17844/2000&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=1333x1333"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>South African consumers are grappling with rising inflation and declining financial optimism, as highlighted in TransUnion&apos;s Q2 2026 Consumer Pulse Study. With 79% ranking inflation as a top concern, households are adjusting their spending and borrowing behaviours to navigate ongoing financial strain.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[How to ensure your Sars auto-assessment is accurate]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/how-to-ensure-your-sars-auto-assessment-is-accurate-67d6517f-34b5-43c7-bb83-2c10998f72af</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/how-to-ensure-your-sars-auto-assessment-is-accurate-67d6517f-34b5-43c7-bb83-2c10998f72af</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Pedri Reyneke]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 16 Jul 2026 11:28:17 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 16 Jul 2026 11:28:17 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/f1636a4668e55d17e4f2d897a01b759144931728/635&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=635x357" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/f1636a4668e55d17e4f2d897a01b759144931728/635&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=357x357"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Discover how to identify and correct common errors in your Sars auto-assessment, ensuring you maximise your tax refund and avoid costly mistakes.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Sars celebrates significant sentencing in R62 million tax fraud case]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/sars-celebrates-significant-sentencing-in-r62-million-tax-fraud-case-61427d31-d8d4-4d8a-89ac-ba9659a077ac</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/sars-celebrates-significant-sentencing-in-r62-million-tax-fraud-case-61427d31-d8d4-4d8a-89ac-ba9659a077ac</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[André Daniels]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 16 Jul 2026 11:27:50 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 16 Jul 2026 11:27:50 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/17b55ec5bbf8ddfce68e642f7f084a3eb2d921a2/1120&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x39&amp;resize=1120x630" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/17b55ec5bbf8ddfce68e642f7f084a3eb2d921a2/1120&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=707x707"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Sars has welcomed a landmark 25-year sentence for a taxpayer involved in a R62 million VAT fraud scheme, highlighting the importance of compliance and the serious consequences of tax fraud.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
        <item>
            <title><![CDATA[Point of view: how South Africans prioritise affordability in ride-hailing services]]></title>
            <description/>
            <link>https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/point-of-view-how-south-africans-prioritise-affordability-in-ride-hailing-services-284645b3-024d-4e4d-87fc-962786de732f</link>
            <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.iol.co.za/personal-finance/financial-planning/point-of-view-how-south-africans-prioritise-affordability-in-ride-hailing-services-284645b3-024d-4e4d-87fc-962786de732f</guid>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dieketseng Maleke]]></dc:creator>
            <pubDate>Thu, 16 Jul 2026 11:27:42 GMT</pubDate>
            <dc:modified>Thu, 16 Jul 2026 11:27:42 GMT</dc:modified>
            <dc:publisher>IOL</dc:publisher>
            <media:content url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/16x9/800?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/2042cf885177348f4723b8dc9cb7964740df42f1/640&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x34&amp;resize=640x360" type="image/jpeg">
                <media:thumbnail url="https://image-prod.iol.co.za/square/150?source=https://iol-prod.appspot.com/image/2042cf885177348f4723b8dc9cb7964740df42f1/640&amp;operation=CROP&amp;offset=0x0&amp;resize=427x427"/>
                <media:credit><![CDATA[Provided by Independent Media]]></media:credit>
            </media:content>
            <dc:abstract>Affordability remains the primary factor influencing how South Africans use ride-hailing services, with new data revealing that while cost is king, some consumers are willing to pay a little more for enhanced experiences.</dc:abstract>
        </item>
    </channel>
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