Welcome to PSG Konsult Corporate's second quarterly newsletter. Thank you for all the positive feedback since the launch of our inaugural newsletter in August. It is comforting to know that the conversations and issues selected for debate are of value and contribute positively towards informing and empowering you, our clients.

Most medical schemes have launched their benefits and contributions for 2012 and, as in the past, the average increases passed on to members by the medical schemes again outstrip inflation. So now, more than ever, is the time to learn how to "box smart" to ensure that you maximise the value you derive from your medical scheme benefits. Here are some tips...

It won't be long before schools break up and families take to the roads for the long summer holidays. Before you reach your destination and lie back and chillax, there is some housekeeping to do to ensure that your vehicle is prepped and ready for the road, that you are covered in the event of an accident and your possessions are safe and insured. Here are some tips on keeping you, your family and possessions safe over the 'silly season.'

Willie Fourie, CEO of PSG Konsult Trust uses the controversy around Patrick Maqubela's last Will to demonstrate the need for drawing up a legal Will that cannot be contested in court. There is good reason for the adaptation of the motivational saying, 'Where there's a will, there's a way' to 'Where there's a Will, I want to be in it.' Or as Fourie quotes from CJ Langenhoven,' where the dead lie, vultures gather.' He advises how to make your Will legal and relative proof.

The National Social Security Fund (NSSF) and National Health Insurance (NHI) are hotly debated topics within our industry. Both present some major challenges, the most obvious being whether South Africa can finance them simultaneously. Read more about the challenge of turning these reforms into reality.

The Council for Medical Schemes, a statutory body created to regulate and monitor medical schemes, released their annual report in September. The report showed that in the current environment of increasing chronic illness and health costs, many medical schemes are struggling with operational costs. Liz Still, Research Editor at PSG Online, looks at the reported results of the open schemes.

"With the help of the HR department and a financial planner, employees can now structure their packages to maximise the tax benefits and actually net more every month," says Swanevelder.

The revisions to Regulation 28 of the Pension Funds Act were made to reduce risks and enhance protection of members. However, these revised amendments come at a significant cost to the industry. What are the changes and how do they affect you?

More often than not, investors feel that by doing something when markets are volatile, they are going to "help" their portfolios. In reacting to market volatility is all too often like trying to hold back the tide....

Some companies charge an exit penalty when transferring from one retirement fund to another. It is important to check costs ahead of time says, Susan Joubert, Employee Benefit Specialist with PSG Konsult Corporate.