Martin Hesse

Former Content Editor

Customer moves R1 million from bank due to poor service

Martin Hesse|Published

A 76-year-old customer withdrew R1 million from his bank after repeated failures to address his complaints regarding unexpected fees. The case highlights the importance ...

Why South African banks must improve customer service

Martin Hesse|Published

This article explores the shortcomings of South Africa's major banks in customer service, highlighting personal experiences and industry reports that reveal a need ...

How can South Africans improve their financial literacy?

Martin Hesse|Published

People become more money-savvy when they start earning and gain experience in managing the money they have earned.

Lower interest rates boost real estate market

Martin Hesse|Published

The Absa Homeowner Sentiment Index for the fourth quarter 2024, released in early March, showed that South Africans’ confidence in the future of residential property ...

Words on wealth: banks carry on deceiving us with ‘simple’ rates

Martin Hesse|Published

Explore how South African banks misrepresent fixed deposit interest rates, using simple interest to attract investors while obscuring the true returns.

Words on wealth: understanding the legal implications of signing contracts

Martin Hesse|Published

Discover the critical importance of understanding contract terms before signing, and learn how consumer protection laws can safeguard your rights.

Words on Wealth: what are REITs and should you invest in them

Martin Hesse|Published

A real estate investment trust, known widely by its acronym, REIT, is an entity that invests in and manages property on behalf of its investors. It provides a way ...

Words on wealth: Understanding your investment risk spectrum

Martin Hesse|Published

Discover where your investments fall on the risk spectrum and learn how to manage investment risks effectively for better returns.

Raging Bull Awards: celebrating South Africa's investment excellence

Martin Hesse|Published

The annual Raging Bull Awards ceremony, the “Oscars” of the investment industry, takes place on Monday, February 17, at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. ...

Words on wealth: navigating the financial impact of Trump's policies

Martin Hesse|Published

Explore the economic implications of Donald Trump's policies on global markets and the South African property sector, as experts weigh in on the potential risks ...

Words on wealth: understanding the risks of living annuities

Martin Hesse|Published

Explore the essential considerations and risks associated with living annuities, including their legal nature and investment implications, to make informed retirement ...

Words on Wealth: Are tech giants dominating your offshore investment portfolio?

Martin Hesse|Published

Explore how the dominance of tech giants like Apple and Amazon could impact your offshore investment strategy and learn the importance of diversification.

Words on wealth: what to expect from South Africa's financial markets in 2025

Martin Hesse|Published

Investment experts express cautious optimism for South Africa's financial markets in 2025, highlighting the impact of global economic conditions and local developments. ...

Words on wealth: tips for successful offshore investment strategies

Martin Hesse|Published

Discover the benefits and practicalities of offshore investing, including strategies for direct and indirect investments, tax implications, and administrative processes. ...

Raging Bull Awards 2025: explore the fund categories and their significance

Martin Hesse|Published

Discover the intricacies of the 2025 Raging Bull Awards, including detailed insights into fund categories for both performance and risk-adjusted awards.

Words on wealth: why risk-adjusted performance matters in the Raging Bull Awards

Martin Hesse|Published

Words on wealth: why risk-adjusted performance matters in the Raging Bull Awards

Survey reveals customer service struggles across South African banks

Martin Hesse|Published

Despite Discovery Bank's top ranking in positive customer sentiment, a recent survey reveals widespread dissatisfaction with customer service across South African ...

Words on wealth: how to save money and enjoy the holidays

Martin Hesse|Published

Discover practical tips to save money this festive season while enjoying meaningful experiences with loved ones.

Introducing Iress and Apex Group as new data partners for the Raging Bull Awards

Martin Hesse|Published

Discover how Iress and Apex Group’s partnership will enhance the credibility of the Raging Bull Awards in recognising outstanding performance in investment.

Words on wealth: is your employer stealing your pension deductions?

Martin Hesse|Published

Discover the alarming reality of pension contribution non-compliance in South Africa, learn how to identify if your employer is failing to pay your contributions, ...

Words on wealth: the true cost of retirement: are you prepared?

Martin Hesse|Published

Discover the true financial requirements for a comfortable retirement and learn how to avoid common pitfalls in your retirement planning.

Raging Bull Awards: recognising top asset managers over 5 years

Martin Hesse|Published

Explore the highlights of the Raging Bull Awards over the past five years, showcasing the achievements of both established and boutique asset managers in South Africa. ...

Words on wealth: How comedy can make financial literacy fun and accessible

Martin Hesse|Published

Discover how comedy is transforming financial literacy in South Africa, making essential money lessons entertaining and relatable for young adults.

How do the 2025 Raging Bull Awards differ from previous years?

Martin Hesse|Published

Discover the significant changes to the Raging Bull Awards for 2025, including new award categories, eligibility criteria, and a simplified methodology for assessing ...

Master these insurance terms to protect your wealth

Martin Hesse|Published

Demystify the complex world of insurance with this comprehensive guide to essential terms and concepts.