Retirement savings in South Africa: How to preserve and grow your money

Published on Nov 16, 2025
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Are you still working on last year’s to-do list? While some goals, like a new hobby, can wait, time is your greatest asset when it comes to your retirement savings. The earlier you start, the more time your money has to grow. And if you’ve delayed? That’s okay. It’s never too late to take the first step.

Your nest egg is more than just an income for when you stop working. It’s an investment in your health, wealth and well-being during your golden years. With the right plan, you can preserve what you’ve earned, grow your savings, and enjoy a comfortable retirement.

Why retirement savings matter

Retirement planning isn’t just about the numbers. It’s about peace of mind, freedom and building a future that works for you. Whether you're a partner guiding clients or an individual planning ahead, here’s why saving for retirement is essential:

Security for the future

Maintain your lifestyle and independence long after your working years are behind you.

Investment in well-being

Reduce financial stress and uncertainty, giving yourself space to focus on what truly matters: health, family and personal fulfilment.

Flexibility and control

Choose how and when to access your income, with options that suit your life stage and goals.

Whether you’re just starting your retirement journey or looking to preserve existing savings, Hollard has retirement investment solutions designed for South Africans.

Hollard’s retirement savings solutions

Planning for retirement is a journey, and Hollard is here to help you navigate it with confidence. Whether you're a partner advising clients or an individual securing your future, our solutions are designed to preserve, grow and protect your wealth.

Pension Preservation Plan

If you’ve recently left your job and received a pension fund payout, Hollard’s Pension Preservation Plan offers a smart, secure way to keep your retirement savings working for you.

Hollard’s Pension Preservation Plan allows you to preserve and grow your existing pension payout through a selection of investment portfolios tailored to your financial goals. If needed, you can make a single withdrawal, either partial or full, before retirement. When you retire, you have the flexibility to take up to one-third of your savings in cash, while the remaining balance can be used to purchase an annuity, providing you with a steady and reliable income throughout your retirement years.

This plan is ideal for partners helping clients transition between jobs while keeping their long-term financial goals intact.

Tax benefits of retirement savings

Retirement savings in South Africa come with powerful tax advantages, giving you more value for every rand invested:

Tax-free growth

Your investment returns are not subject to Capital Gains Tax, Interest Income Tax or Dividends Tax while invested.

Favourable tax at retirement

Transfers to a Living Annuity are tax-free and lump-sum withdrawals are generally taxed at lower retirement fund rates than regular income.

Tax-deductible contributions

Contributions to a Retirement Annuity Fund are deductible (up to legal limits), allowing you to invest more while reducing your taxable income.

Regulated, responsible investing

South African retirement funds are governed by strict regulations to protect your savings from unnecessary risk. At Hollard Investments, we ensure all portfolio options comply with these rules — supporting responsible investing and long-term financial security.

Our commitment to compliance and transparency means partners, advisers and clients can trust that every investment decision is made with care, integrity and a focus on building Better Futures.

Why choose Hollard Investments?

Hollard Investments offers a wide range of retirement and preservation solutions designed specifically for South African investors. Our portfolios are tailored to meet diverse financial goals while remaining fully compliant with FSCA regulations. As a trusted partner, we’re committed to helping individuals, brokers and advisers plan for a secure financial future with confidence and clarity. 

Speak to your adviser about Hollard Investments today to secure your retirement, because when it comes to financial security, late is better than never.

FAQs about retirement savings in South Africa

When should I start saving for retirement?

The earlier, the better. Starting young maximises compounding growth, but it’s never too late to begin.

What happens if I change jobs?

You can transfer your pension payout into a Pension Preservation Fund to protect your savings from early withdrawal penalties and continue growing them.

Are retirement savings tax-free?

Yes, growth inside retirement funds is tax-free, and contributions may be tax-deductible. Withdrawals, however, are taxed based on retirement fund tax tables.

Can I withdraw money before retirement?

With a Pension Preservation Plan, you’re allowed one full or partial withdrawal before retirement.

Disclaimer

This article provides general information only and should not be considered financial advice. For tailored assistance, please consult a Hollard-accredited financial adviser or a licensed financial professional registered with the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA).