Latest news with #Amey
The Citizen
4 days ago
- Business
- The Citizen
How to be a savvier saver and investor
National Savings Month is an initiative to promote healthier financial habits and encourage households to save. National Savings Month is almost over. Some consumers learned how to save, but how many know how to be a savvier saver and investor? 'In essence, the intention is to foster a culture where South Africans can become more financially disciplined, leading to greater financial independence. To foster this culture, South Africans must learn that small actions in savings and investments can make a big difference in their lives. 'There are positive changes in the financial advice industry that consumers can capitalise on to do this,' Steven Amey, head of Intermediated distribution at Ashburton Investments, says. ALSO READ: South Africans experiencing less financial stress, but still under pressure — survey Why healthier savings and investment habits are necessary According to Eighty20 XDS Credit Stress Report 2025 for the first quarter of 2025, South Africans rely too much on debt. Household debt reached an outstanding R2.56 trillion in the first quarter of 2025, up 2.1% from the previous quarter. 'The most concerning aspect of this is the number of overdue loans. A staggering 34.8% of all loans are in arrears, the first time in two years this number increased,' Amey warns. 'Consumers are battling to pay for rent, food and the basic necessities of life, yet we continue to spend on items that fall outside these categories, evidenced in the 'Mass Credit Market', representing the majority of the South African population. 'Interestingly, approximately 325 000 people started using credit for the first time, in the form of retail loans. Overdue payments on credit cards in the mass credit market increased and 53% are in default, unable to pay an instalment. On average, South Africans spend close to 30% of their income on loans.' ALSO READ: Survey shows how economic distress erodes South Africans' savings culture Statistics show we are not savvier savers Amey points out that according to TransUnion's South Africa Industry Insights Report for the first quarter, the growth in originations for new credit cards at 30.7% compared to the previous year far outstripped growth for other consumer credit products. He says this is cause for concern. How do you change to build better savings habits? Amey says there are a number of good habits South Africans can embrace to improve your financial well-being, including: reviewing your household budget to find where you can save; becoming financially self-disciplined because small changes in spending can make a big difference; and starting to save immediately without hesitation to reap the benefits of compound interest over time. Amey says to start with, you must separate your needs from your wants and rather use your hard-earned salary to pay for the essentials and save the rest or spoil yourself. 'We tend to overreach and spend more than we can afford. The statistics demonstrate this. 'Why extend yourself for short-term happiness when the inevitable of having to return your item or have it repossessed a few months later will cause greater embarrassment?' ALSO READ: How can you save when you use 75% of your income to pay debts? Options to be savvier savers and investors are available He says savings and investment options in South Africa are also evolving in South Africa. 'While learning to save is critical, turning savings into long-term investments is where real wealth is built. To do this, you must be aware of changes in the financial industry that can be leveraged for your benefit. 'The investment value chain dramatically improved for the regular retail investor over the past two decades. We moved from having an investment industry that largely sold financial solutions on the back of attractive commissions to one that has become well-regulated, respected and led by financial professionals that truly care about their clients' financial well-being.' Amey says it is interesting to note that the financial services industry splintered into various advisory groups, each with their own unique value proposition. Many advisors elected to join networks of advisors, ordinarily supported by large established industry providers which assist advisors with regulatory compliance and enable them to offer sound financial advice and a host of additional ancillary services to enhance their value proposition to their clients. In addition, large life and banking advisory divisions offer advisors many of the benefits of a network, with access to additional systems and services these large life and banking channels developed over decades. And then there are the larger, more established independent financial advisory practices that retained their total independence, leveraging the resources they accumulated over years of entrepreneurial practice, Amey says. ALSO READ: Five money mistakes that seem smart, but could cost you a lot later How qualified financial advisers can help us be savvier savers and investors 'Today's Qualified Independent Financial Advisors (IFAs) can render sound holistic financial advice and are regarded as the modern day 'sherpa'. Their role is to prepare and help you navigate the financial complexities of life. 'Holistic financial planning is the epitome, where there is no longer a focus on a single need but a comprehensive analysis, incorporating all aspects of financial planning, from budgeting to cash-flow analysis, tax planning, investment planning and estate planning. 'Once all of this and more is compiled into an understandable and executable financial strategy, financial products, platforms and solutions can be recommended to enable your unique plan.' Amey also warns that while robo-advisor platforms are prevalent and tempting, they should be used only by more informed and astute investors. 'The need for financial advice from a qualified financial advisor remains as strong as ever despite these latest developments.' According to the March report of the Association for Savings and Investment South Africa (ASISA), there are a plethora of investment options available to investors. For instance, there are 1 884 unit trusts (100+ being passive or 'Smart Beta Funds'), commodity funds, hedge funds, structured products, private equity, venture capital funds, fine art, actively managed certificates (AMCs) and more to select from, all adding to the financial complexity investors are facing. 'This is why it is critical to get advice from a qualified financial advisor.' ALSO READ: Savings month: How to save like a millionaire – even if you are not one yet How discretionary fund managers can help us be better savers and investors Amy points out that one very important development is the recent steep growth in discretionary fund managers (DFMs) in South Africa. 'DFMs removed the burden of the advisor having to perform in-depth investment management due diligence and the complexity of having to compile detailed economic and asset management reports. 'Most DFMs have experienced teams, with sound investment processes and philosophies mastered over several years, for the benefit of the advisors they serve. In addition, many DFMs manage significant assets, which can enable them to negotiate reduced asset management fees on behalf of advisors.' He says the investment portfolios they compile may be personalised for the needs of certain financial planning practices or more generally to serve broader financial advisor needs. These portfolios usually comprise large and boutique active asset managers, as well as passive and smart beta investment strategies to reduce overall investment portfolio costs. Advisors then invest their clients' assets into these portfolios to achieve desired investment outcomes.' Amey says it is clear that many DFMs 'add significant value, segregating roles and responsibilities to ensure the advisors they partner with can focus on what they do best'. 'The savings and investment industry evolved significantly over the past two decades. If you want to change your financial fate you must tap into this opportunity. The way to do this is to partner with the highly skilled new generation of accredited financial advisors who lead from the front, acting as much needed financial sherpas for South Africans who want to build a better future.'
Daily Record
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Daily Record
Erskine Bridge weekend closure planned as roadworks set to begin
The carriageway on the northbound carriageway of the Erskine Bridge will be closed for a full weekend next month as work to resurface and replace crucial joints begins. A carriageway on the Erskine Bridge is set to shut for an entire weekend as resurfacing and crucial joint replacement work begins next month. The route will be closed northbound from 8pm on Friday, August 8, until 6am on Monday, August 11, as Amey, acting on behalf of Transport Scotland, undertakes the work. Drivers are being encouraged to plan their trips ahead of time and consider alternative routes or follow signed diversions during the work. The southbound A898 Erskine Bridge will operate with a single lane closure. Access for emergency services will be maintained. This work forms part of a £100,000 investment in the infrastructure of the A898 Erskine Bridge and will enhance the condition of the bridge joints and the road surface there. Drivers will be advised to adhere to an agreed diversion route as several key roads will be shut. Road closures will be implemented at the M8 Junction 30 westbound off-slip to M898 northbound; A898/M898 northbound; A898 northbound slips to Great Western Road (both northbound and southbound); and the A898 northbound on-slip to Erskine Bridge. A single lane closure will also be necessary on the A898 southbound carriageway, and there will be a closure of the A82 southbound off-slips to Erskine Bridge. A signed diversion for northbound traffic will reroute vehicles. Eastbound M8 traffic from Greenock/Port Glasgow will continue on the eastbound M8 to the Kingston Bridge and then take the M8 Junction 17 off-slip (Charing Cross, Glasgow) to join the westbound A82 (Great Western Road). Westbound traffic aiming to reach the A898 Erskine Bridge will be directed to turn at the M8 Junction 31 off-slip (West Ferry Interchange) to join the same eastbound diversion. Westbound M8 traffic (from Glasgow towards M898) planning to cross the A898 Erskine Bridge should follow the M8 to Kingston Bridge and then take the M8 Junction 17 off-slip (Charing Cross, Glasgow) to join the westbound A82 (Great Western Road). Westbound M74 traffic (towards M898) intending to cross the A898 Erskine Bridge should exit at M74 Junction 1 (towards Kinning Park) and follow local signs to the westbound A82 (Great Western Road). Northbound M77 traffic (towards M898) planning to cross the A898 Erskine Bridge should continue on the eastbound M8 and follow local signs to join the westbound A82 (Great Western Road). For those travelling on the southbound carriageway, the Erskine Bridge southbound on-slip from A82 westbound will be closed from 6am on Saturday, August 9, until 8pm on Sunday, August 10. Westbound A82 traffic aiming to head south on the A898 Erskine Bridge will be rerouted to continue west to Dunglass Roundabout, before returning eastbound to join the southbound A898 Erskine Bridge traffic. The Erskine Bridge southbound slip road from A82 eastbound will be shut from 8pm until 6am on both nights of Friday, August 8, and Sunday, August 10. Eastbound A82 traffic planning to head south on the Erskine Bridge will be diverted via Kilbowie Roundabout and access Erskine Bridge from A82 westbound. Local access to Erskine will be maintained via the B815 and the A726. Eastbound traffic from Greenock/Port Glasgow will carry on the eastbound M8 to Junction 30 to reach Erskine via the A726. Westbound M8 traffic (from Glasgow to M898) wishing to get to Erskine from the M8 will be redirected at the M8 Junction 31 off-slip road (West Ferry Interchange) to follow the eastbound diversion to the A726. Local Erskine traffic intending to reach the A82 Great Western Road, will be rerouted at the A726 Spectacles Roundabout and join the southbound M8 off-slip road to the eastbound M8 and continue to the M8 Kingston Bridge Junction 17 off-slip road to join the westbound A82 (Great Western Road). Local access to Erskine, north of the A898 Erskine Bridge, will be facilitated via the A726 leading to the A8 Greenock Road. From there, drivers should follow Inchinnan Road/Gleve Street/Glasgow Road/Renfrew Road/Shieldhall Road and proceed through the Clyde Tunnel, continuing on Crow Road to join the westbound A82 (Great Western Road). Motorists are encouraged to explore alternative routes where feasible to bypass the M898/A898 during the period of these works.
Daily Record
6 days ago
- Automotive
- Daily Record
Ayrshire motorists warned of A77 lane closures for two and a half weeks
Ayrshire motorists warned of A77 lane closures for two and a half weeks Lanes will be closed on the A77 between Kilmarnock and Ayr to allow for footpath resurfacing next month. (Image: Google Maps) Motorists in Ayrshire are being warned to expect disruption on the A77 for two and a half weeks next month. Resurfacing work is being carried out on the footpath at Ladykirk, around 2.5 miles north of the Dutchhouse Roundabout between Kilmarnock and Ayr, from Monday, August 11. As a result, nearside lane closures will be in place between the Kilmarnock Road footbridge and Monkton Road for the duration of the works which are scheduled to end on Friday, August 29. The works were originally due to start on Monday, July 28 but trunk road operator Amey confirmed they had been delayed "due to operational issues". Download the Ayrshire Live app today The Ayrshire Live app is available to download now. Get all the local news in your area – plus features, football news and the latest on the coronavirus crisis – at your fingertips 24/7. The free download features the latest breaking news and exclusive stories while you can customise your page with the sections that matter to you. The Ayrshire Live app is available to download now on iOS and Android. A spokesperson for Amey said: "Amey, on behalf of Transport Scotland, is undertaking essential footway renewals on the A77 southbound at Ladykirk, 2.5 miles north of Dutchhouse Roundabout from Monday, August 11 until Friday, August 29. "This work will require a 24 hour nearside lane closure for the duration between Kilmarnock Road footbridge and Monkton Road. "Access for emergency service vehicles will be maintained throughout these works. "Please note, all schemes are weather dependent and may be cancelled or rescheduled if weather conditions are not favourable. "This scheme will benefit pedestrians using this route each day, by improving the safety and condition of the footways in this area. "Road users are thanked for their patience and understanding while this work is being undertaken." Originally due to take place between Monday, July 28 and Friday, August 8, the works have been delayed and extended to take place over 18 days and not 11 days. Article continues below Amey have not confirmed if lane closures will affect both carriageways or only one. Don't miss the latest Ayrshire headlines – sign up to our free daily newsletter
Hindustan Times
13-07-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Hepatologist explains how gut influences memory, mood and mental wellbeing; unpacks why gut may be the ‘second brain'
Several cognitive functions, such as memory, thinking, and concentration, don't just stem from brain activity alone; they are also deeply influenced by gut health. This further demonstrates the importance of gut health in maintaining overall well-being, as it has the ability to influence major functions, including immunity and mental performance. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Amey Sonavane, consultant hepatology, AHNM, explained how key brain functions are connected to gut health. From memory to concentration, much of the cognitive functions are influenced by gut health. (Shutterstock) ALSO READ: Gastroenterologist shares what your stool's colour, consistency, and frequency tell about your gut health He said, 'Memory and brain function are also closely linked to gut health. The gut sends signals to the brain that affect focus, memory, and even decision-making. When gut bacteria are in poor shape, they can produce chemicals that travel through the bloodstream to the brain, potentially increasing inflammation and contributing to cognitive decline. Some early studies suggest that changes in gut bacteria may appear even before signs of memory loss or Alzheimer's disease show up. This makes the gut an important area to watch, not just for digestion, but for long-term brain health.' Let's take a closer look at the gut-brain axis and explore the fundamentals of this connection, from the microbiome and the chemicals that make the gut the 'second brain' to how your diet can help support this bi-directional relationship. Role of microbiome The microbiome is one of the vital factors at play that form the bedrock of the gut-brain axis, shaping and influencing major cognitive functions and mood regulation. While the gut-brain axis may seem complex, the gut microbiome holds the answers and simplifies it. Dr Amey spoke about the role of microbiome and explained, 'Over the past few years, scientists have discovered something quite remarkable - your gut does a lot more than digest food. Inside your digestive system lives a massive population of bacteria and other tiny organisms, collectively called the gut microbiome. These microorganisms affect how you feel, how your body handles food, and even how your brain works. In simple terms, your gut could be quietly shaping your mood, metabolism, and memory every single day.' Gut is the second brain for mood The roots of your happy moods may be in your gut.(Shutterstock) While cognitive functions like memory, concentration, attention, decision-making, and processing are shaped by gut health, even emotions can be influenced by what's going on in your gut. It signifies the powerful role of gut health, influencing both mind and mood. Dr Amey shed light on the connection to mood regulation and said, 'The gut and the brain are constantly in touch with each other through a network known as the gut-brain axis. In fact, the gut is often called the 'second brain' because it produces many of the same chemicals that your brain does.' 'For example, about 90 percent of your body's serotonin, a chemical that influences mood, is made in the gut. It regulates things like gut motility, secretion, and blood clotting. If the balance of bacteria in your gut is disturbed, it can trigger low moods, anxiety, or even depression. New research shows that improving gut health can actually help some people feel mentally better, giving rise to what are now being called 'psychobiotics', probiotics that support mental health,' he added. Brain-friendly foods Curd in Indian dishes like raita contains good bacteria that help to balance the oral microbiome. (Shutterstock) If the role of gut health in mental wellbeing feels intimidating because it's something that is beyond your conscious control and awareness, but it turns out you can actively take charge and consciously support this gut-brain axis by adding gut-healthy food to your diet. The hepatologist shared some gut-healthy foods and warned against one common habit. Dr Amey suggested, 'Traditional Indian diets actually offer a natural advantage. Fermented foods like curd, buttermilk, dosa, and idli are full of beneficial bacteria. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lentils feed the good microbes in your gut and help keep harmful ones in check. On the other hand, overuse of antibiotics, low-fibre diets, stress, and lack of physical activity can damage the microbiome.' Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Glasgow Times
09-07-2025
- Automotive
- Glasgow Times
Drivers warned of major Erskine Bridge closure in August
The £100,000 project, carried out by Amey on behalf of Transport Scotland, will see the northbound section of the bridge closed for a full weekend, starting at 8pm on Friday, August 8, until 6am on Monday, August 11. The southbound carriageway will have a single lane open. Read more: New disabled parking bays to be introduced across East Dunbartonshire The works are intended to improve the condition of the bridge joints and road surface, increasing reliability and safety, and reducing the likelihood of more extensive or disruptive future repairs. The list of closures due to the works is extensive. These include the M8 Junction 30 westbound off-slip to M898 northbound, the A898/M898 northbound, the A898 northbound slips to Great Western Road (both directions), and the A898 northbound on-slip to the Erskine Bridge. A single lane closure will also be required on the A898 southbound carriageway. The A82 southbound off-slips to the Erskine Bridge will also be closed. Diversions for northbound traffic have been put in place. Eastbound M8 traffic from Greenock/Port Glasgow will continue on the eastbound M8 to the Kingston Bridge and onto the M8 Junction 17 off-slip (Charing Cross, Glasgow) to join the westbound A82 (Great Western Road). Westbound traffic wishing to access the A898 Erskine Bridge will instead turn at the M8 Junction 31 off-slip (West Ferry Interchange) to join the same eastbound diversion. Westbound M8 traffic from Glasgow towards M898 intending to cross the A898 Erskine Bridge should follow the M8 to Kingston Bridge and onto the M8 Junction 17 off-slip (Charing Cross, Glasgow) to join the westbound A82 (Great Western Road). Westbound M74 traffic towards M898 intending to cross the A898 Erskine Bridge should exit M74 Junction 1 (towards Kinning Park) and follow local signage to the westbound A82 (Great Western Road). Northbound M77 traffic towards M898 intending to cross the A898 Erskine Bridge should travel on the eastbound M8 and follow local signage to join the westbound A82 (Great Western Road). For southbound traffic, the Erskine bridge southbound on-slip from A82 westbound will be closed from 6am on Saturday, August 9 until 8pm on Sunday, August 10. Westbound A82 traffic intending to travel south on the A898 Erskine Bridge will be directed to continue west to Dunglass Roundabout, and then return eastbound to join the southbound A898 Erskine Bridge traffic. The Erskine bridge southbound on-slip from A82 eastbound will be closed from 8pm until 6am on both nights of Friday, August 8 and Sunday, August 10. Eastbound A82 traffic intending to travel south on Erskine bridge will be diverted via Kilbowie Roundabout and access Erskine bridge from A82 westbound. Local access to Erskine will be maintained via the B815 and the A726. Eastbound traffic from Greenock/Port Glasgow will continue on the eastbound M8 to Junction 30 to access Erskine via the A726. Westbound M8 traffic from Glasgow to M898 wishing to access Erskine from the M8 will be diverted at the M8 Junction 31 off-slip road (West Ferry Interchange) to follow the eastbound diversion above to the A726. Local Erskine traffic intending to access the A82 Great Western Road, will be diverted at the A726 Spectacles Roundabout and join the southbound M8 off-slip road to the eastbound M8 and continue to the M8 Kingston Bridge Junction 17 off-slip road to join the westbound A82 (Great Western Road). Motorists are advised to seek alternative routes where possible to avoid the M898/A898 during these works. Motorists attending the TRNSMT music festival during this period should plan their journeys in advance and consider alternative travel options. All the works are weather-dependent and may be postponed or rescheduled in the event of adverse weather.
