The advice landscape is changing ‒ just not in the way most advisers think
The advice profession is changing, but not because of better products or faster technology. Deeper structural shifts are reshaping how advice businesses grow, price, and stay relevant in an environment of rising complexity and consolidation. Understanding these shifts and responding with clarity and focus is becoming a defining advantage for independent advisers.
Economic Review | The January Edition
Business activity in the US was stable in January, as increased demand for new orders was counterbalanced by a weaker labour market and persistent concerns about rising costs tied to import tariffs. China ended 2025 having met its economic growth target, despite ongoing trade frictions with the US. Meanwhile, the Bank of Japan (BoJ) raised its growth forecast for the fiscal year ending March 2026, while keeping interest rates on hold. The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) maintained interest rates at its January meeting, supported by improving inflation trends and signs of a strengthening domestic economy.
Economic Review | The December Edition
The US economy grew at a much faster pace in Q3 2025 compared to Q2. In December, Chinese authorities pledged to maintain a “proactive” fiscal stance and adopt flexible monetary policies, such as lowering banks’ reserve requirements and interest rates to bolster growth in 2026. In the UK, GDP posted a modest increase in Q3 versus the previous quarter. Locally, South Africa’s GDP saw a slight increase, while its inflation rate declined over the same period.
Economic Review | The November Edition
In November, the US experienced the most extensive economic shutdown in history, disrupting government operations and delaying wages and salaries for workers. Projections for the US Federal Reserve (Fed)’s policy rate returning to its neutral range of 3.00–3.25% have now been pushed to late 2026, consistent with S&P Global’s outlook. The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) lowered interest rates by 25 basis points in November.