Introduction
South Africa’s investment landscape is buzzing in 2026. With load shedding still a reality, data costs biting, and the rand swinging, more locals are taking control of their financial futures. DIY (do-it-yourself) investing is no longer just for the experts – thanks to digital platforms, anyone with a smartphone and a bit of hustle can grow their money. Sanlam, one of SA’s biggest financial services groups, is right in the mix, offering a range of investment options. But which Sanlam platform is truly the best for the self-directed investor? This deep dive cuts through the jargon, compares the real costs and features, and gives you the local know-how to make smart choices in a tough economy.
Sanlam Investment Platforms: A 2026 Comparison
| Provider | Features | Costs | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sanlam Investments (Direct) | Active and passive funds, ESG options, retirement and tax-free accounts, online dashboard, mobile app, educational resources | Annual fees: 0.5%-1.5% (varies by fund), no upfront fees, minimum investment R500 | Full control, wide fund choice, strong sustainability focus, local support, no advisor needed |
| Sanlam Collective Investments (via platforms like EasyEquities, Satrix, or EE Fund Manager) | Access to Sanlam unit trusts, ETFs, tax-free savings, retirement annuities, fractional shares, low-cost entry | Platform fees: 0.2%-0.4% p.a., Sanlam fund fees extra, minimums as low as R10 | Ultra-low cost, easy start, fractional investing, integrates with other providers, ideal for beginners |
| Sanlam Linked Investment Service Provider (LISP) – Glacier by Sanlam | Wrap platform, access to multiple fund managers (including Sanlam), retirement and endowment solutions, financial planning tools | Platform fee: ~0.35% p.a., fund fees extra, minimum R1,000 | Diversification, professional oversight optional, tax efficiency, suited for larger portfolios |
If you want hands-on control without an advisor, Sanlam Investments Direct and Collective Investments via third-party platforms are your best bets. Glacier is more for those who want a mix of DIY and professional input. Remember, costs add up – especially with data fees for trading apps during load shedding. Always check the total expense ratio (TER) before you commit.
Real South African Case Study
Meet Thando, a 28-year-old teacher from Soweto. She started investing R500 a month in Sanlam’s ESG Balanced Fund via EasyEquities in 2023. Despite load shedding and expensive data, she used the app during off-peak hours to avoid extra costs. By October 2025, her portfolio grew to R18,000 – a 20% return, thanks to compounding and dollar-cost averaging. Thando’s story shows that with discipline and the right platform, even modest earners can build wealth.
South African Context & Challenges
- Load Shedding: Power cuts can disrupt online trading. Solution: Use apps with offline modes or schedule trades during stable hours. Consider platforms with SMS notifications for important updates.
- Data Costs: High mobile data prices eat into returns. Solution: Use Wi-Fi at work or home, or opt for platforms with lightweight apps. Some providers offer zero-rated data for their services – check if Sanlam or your broker does.
- Transport: Visiting branches is costly and time-consuming. Solution: Choose fully digital platforms. Sanlam’s online portals and third-party apps mean you never need to leave your couch.
- Currency Volatility: The rand’s swings affect offshore investments. Solution: Diversify locally and globally. Sanlam offers both – look for funds with a mix of SA and international exposure.
- Financial Literacy: Many South Africans lack investing know-how. Solution: Use Sanlam’s free webinars, YouTube tutorials, and local WhatsApp groups like “SA Young Investors” to learn the ropes.
Local Tips & Resources
- Local Platforms: Join Facebook groups like “South African Investors” and WhatsApp communities such as “JSE DIY Traders” for peer support and tips. Follow @SanlamInvestmentsSA on Twitter for updates.
- Warning Signs: Watch out for “get rich quick” schemes promising unrealistic returns. Always verify platform legitimacy via the FSCA website. Avoid sharing your login details, even with “support agents” calling unexpectedly.
- Tax Tips: Use tax-free savings accounts (TFSAs) and retirement annuities (RAs) to save on tax. Sanlam offers both – max them out before investing in taxable accounts.
- Budgeting: Track your spending with local apps like 22seven or StokFella, so you always have something to invest, even if it’s just R50 a month.
Real Impact: Before & After
Before: In 2022, Sipho, a Cape Town Uber driver, kept his savings in a low-interest bank account. With inflation at 7%, his money was losing value. He felt investing was only for the “clever people” in Sandton.
Related: Best Investment Options in South Africa for 2025
After: In 2025, Sipho started using Sanlam’s online platform to invest in a low-cost index fund. Despite load shedding and data costs, he set up a debit order and forgot about it. Two years later, his R10,000 grew to R12,500 – outpacing inflation and his old savings account. He’s now teaching his mates how to do the same via their WhatsApp group.
Conclusion
South Africa in 2026 is not for the faint-hearted, but it’s full of opportunity for savvy investors. Sanlam’s DIY platforms – whether direct, via third-party apps, or through Glacier – offer real solutions for locals who want to take charge. The key is to start small, keep costs low, use tax breaks, and learn continuously. Load shedding and data prices are hurdles, but not deal-breakers. With the right platform and a bit of hustle, you can build a portfolio that works as hard as you do. The future is uncertain, but one thing’s clear: the power to grow your wealth is in your hands – no advisor needed. So, pick your platform, set your debit order, and let compound interest do the rest. Your future self will thank you.
Related: Property Investment South Africa 2025: Still Worth It?
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