ISSUE 4 SUMMER DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020
Heartland
Discover the magic of the Karoo CAPE TO CAIRO AT 80
An octogenarian adventurer’s travel memoir SEE INSIDE FOR READER GIVEAWAY
Why women might not know they’re having a heart attack
Christmas décor
The return of simplicity, comfort and nostalgia What you need to know about investing offshore
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… Contents 12 ED’S NOTE & UPFRONT
Where to go, what to read, buy and drink.
Travel
Interview 28 HELEN MIRREN
39 HOW DO YOU SECURE A COMFORTABLE RETIREMENT?
18 MY AFRICAN CONQUEST
We bring you an extract from octogenarian adventurer Julia Albu’s travel memoir, My African Conquest: Cape to Cairo at 80, chronicling her drive across Africa in her trusty Toyota Conquest she named Tracy. Plus, we have copies of the book to give away.
8
The dry windmill-dotted expanse of semi desert at the heart of South Africa’s interior provides opportunities for fascinating discoveries, restorative escape and foodie delights.
SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
Dame Helen Mirren returns to TV in the epic new drama Catherine the Great. She talks about her new role, her Russian roots and her incredible career spanning five decades.
The PPS Conservative Fund of Funds is a multiasset low equity unit trust which is managed according to Regulation 28 of the Pension Funds Act, and therefore is a suitable vehicle for retirement savings. 42 RETIREMENT 101 What happens to my RA when I die?
Money 34 INVESTING YOUR RANDS OFFSHORE
24 DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF THE KAROO
The SALT dome at the SAAO in Sutherland, South Africa p 24
Pieter Koekemoer, Head of Personal Investments at Coronation, says investing offshore is not a question of when, but how.
36 CAN YOU AFFORD TO RETIRE EARLY?
The temptation to retire early and adopt a life of leisure can be seductive as you enter your fifties and sixties, but can you afford it?
My African Conquest p 18
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on Wednesday purchases Join today
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continued …
Simple Christmas p 60
Health
Leisure
44 WHY WOMEN MIGHT NOT KNOW THEY’RE HAVING A HEART ATTACK
ART 54 The 2020 Standard
If you’re a woman, you might not experience the acute chest pain normally associated with a heart attack.
48 HEARING LOSS
Hearing loss is the third most common physical condition in aging people, but new hearing aids combine modern technology with clear, rich sound in various listening situations.
52 GET TO GRIPS WITH GOUT
People suffering from gout will benefit in the long term from healthy changes to their lifestyle.
Meet Blessing Ngobeni p 54
Bank Young Artist for Art, Blessing Ngobeni, is proof that above all else, innovation and perseverance will see you come out on top, no matter your background. BOOKS 56 A selection of new
novels, memoirs and history for your holiday reading pleasure. LIFESTYLE TRENDS 58 Ten advantages
of retiring in a lifestyle estate. CHRISTMAS DECOR 60 Return to the
simple things this festive season: a table
Dining p 66
decorated to evoke a sense of comfort and nostalgia, a humble colour palette and homespun decorations that weave in the wild spirit of nature. DINING 66 In Joburg, AURUM
Restaurant overlooks Sandton from the 7th floor of South Africa and Africa’s tallest new building, The Leonardo, and Surfshack is the latest hotspot to open on the Camps Bay beachfront. MOTORING 69 Which luxury German
marque has the best resale value? PUZZLES 73 Test your skills
10
SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
WWW.SILVER DIGEST.CO.ZA
11
Ed's note … @SILVERDIGEST
I
t’s summer and the festive season
beyond your wildest expectations in
is upon us! With that in mind, we
the process. Speaking of unforgettable,
have made a big splash in our décor
British actress Helen Mirren has
section showcasing former clothing
tackled another royal in her latest role,
designer, stylist and fashion buyer Stephanie Wolhuter Inggs’ serene and sensible philosophy to surviving the silly season. Her Cape Town home is bursting with stylish ideas, and she has woven together
but this time it’s not one of her compatriots, but Russia’s We would love Catherine the Great. (Did to hear your thoughts, you know that Mirren comments and suggestions. Mail me at Graham.Wood is actually of Russian @newmedia.co.za descent, and her surname I look forward to hearing was originally Mironoff? from you. She quips that they knocked
a fusion of homespun and
the “off” off to make it sound
sophisticated, timeless yet
more British, and now everyone
fresh décor ideas to inspire your own
assumes she’s Scots because of the
Christmas table – plus she’s thrown in a
football club, St Mirren!) As she recounts
recipe for her signature spiced pear-
the triumphs and challenges of her
and-apricot cake. We also bring you an
career, you can’t help looking forward
extract from octogenarian adventurer
to her latest performance. As always,
Julia Albu’s memoir of her madcap trip
the rest of the magazine is packed with
from Cape Town to Cairo in her Toyota
advice on health and wealth, and filled
Conquest. (We’re giving away a couple
with style and entertainment. Enjoy the
of copies too; details below). Her story
read, enjoy the festive season, and we
and bright, upbeat approach proves
look forward to bringing you our next
that you’re never too old to tackle that
issue after a fabulous summer.
bucket list and forge some memories
Graham
EDITORIAL EDITOR: Graham Wood Email: graham.wood@newmedia.co.za SUB EDITOR: Anita van der Merwe LAYOUT & DESIGN: Julia van Schalkwyk PHOTOGRAPHY Cover: Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images Unless previously agreed in writing, Silver Digest owns all rights to all contributions, whether image or text. Sources: Gallo/Getty Images, Shutterstock, supplied images, editorial staff. ADVERTISING Clive Kotze Cell: +27 (0)82 335 4957 Email: clive@mediamatic.co.za SUBSCRIPTIONS Felicity Garbers email: felicity.garbers@newmedia.co.za PUBLISHING TEAM GENERAL MANAGER: Dev Naidoo PUBLISHING MANAGER: Sandra Ladas Email: sandra.ladas@newmedia.co.za PRODUCTION MANAGER: Angela Silver ART DIRECTOR: David Kyslinger MANAGEMENT TEAM MANAGING DIRECTOR: Aileen Lamb COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR: Maria Tiganis BRAND STRATEGY DIRECTOR: Andrew Nunneley CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER: Venette Malone HEAD OF HR: Camillah West CEO: MEDIA24: Ishmet Davidson Johannesburg Office: Ground floor, Media Park, 69 Kingsway Avenue, Auckland Park, 2092 Postal Address: PO Box 784698, Sandton, Johannesburg, 2146 Tel: +27 (0)11 877 6111 Fax: +27 (0)11 877 6198 © Copyright Silver Digest 2019 Published by New Media, a division of Media24 (PTY) Ltd
Giveaway Turn to page 18 for a chance to win a copy of Julia Albu's My African Conquest: Cape to Cairo at 80.
Head Office: New Media House, 19 Bree Street, Cape Town, 8001 Postal Address: PO Box 440, Green Point, Cape Town, 8051 Tel: +27 (0)21 417 1111 Fax: +27 (0)21 417 1112 Email: newmedia@newmedia.co.za Printed by
Winners…
, a division of Novus Holdings
In issue #3 of Silver Digest, we gave away two issue of Jamie
Oliver latest book, VEG. Congratulations to our winners, Alan Budge from Oasis Retirement Resort, Cape Town, and Pam Smith from Onrus, Western Cape.
While precautions have been taken to ensure the accuracy of its contents and information given to readers, neither the editor, publisher, or its agents can accept responsibility for damages or injury which may arise therefrom. All rights reserved. © Silver Digest No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, photocopying, electronic, mechanical or otherwise without the prior written permission of the copyright owners.
12
SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
Upfront …
WHERE TO GO, WHAT TO READ, BUY AND DRINK STAY HERE: THE MARLY
– right in the centre of the action.
the soul and a certain visual spoil
You can’t help but be drawn in
And thanks to a five-month-long
for guests. Adding to the allure of
by the Mother City’s Camps Bay
renovation and the addition of a
The Marly is the new rooftop pool,
beachfront. The picture perfect
brand new floor, The Marly is home
bar and lounge. With its Hollywood-
beach, swaying palm trees, dazzling
to an additional 27 suites, being
style semi-submerged pool loungers
turquoise waters and bronzed sun
added to the existing 11, bringing
and spectacular beach, ocean and
worshippers set the scene – and
the total complement to 38, each
mountain vistas, it will be the perfect
then there’s the buzzing Camps
of which is dressed in the hotel’s
spot to retreat to after a day on the
Bay strip, with its stylish cocktail
signature sophisticated palette
beach and of course it’s bound to be
spots and dining destinations filled
of silvers, whites and grey. Each
a hotspot for sundowner cocktails all
with visitors and the city’s glossy
of the plush rooms boasts utterly
year round. Turn to page 67 to find
residents. It’s here that luxury
beautiful views, be they sea-facing
out more about the new restaurant
boutique hotel property, The Marly
or of the majestic Twelve Apostles
downstairs, too.
Boutique Hotel and Spa, holds court
and Table Mountain – it’s food for
www.themarly.co.za
14
SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
KINGJAMES 48532
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UPFRONT
GIVE THIS TO A FRIEND: CÉCILE & BOYD SCENTED CANDLE
ED’S PICK: NGWENYA GLASS
From humble beginnings as a
The ever-popular
lifestyle store, Cécile & Boyd has
Copa G&T glasses and
grown to encompass interior
beautiful tall champagne flutes
and wine bottles collected from
design, architectural concepts
from Ngwenya Glass are perfect
all over Swaziland/Eswatini. It
and creative direction. They also
for celebrating life and love!
takes up to 12 people to make
have some exquisite homeware
Ngwenya Glass products are all
each glass, and everything is
products like this luxurious hand-
handmade using 100% recycled
done by hand. Go on, be loyal
crafted scented candle which has
glass – old jam jars, soft drink
to local!
a rich, exotic frangipani scent and lengthy burn time. The candle is available at the Cécile & Boyd shops in Durban and Cape Town, as well as online at www. cecileandboyds. com/shop.
DRINK THIS: THE PRODIGY
“The lighter fruit-driven style of
R430 per unit.
Long famous for its revolutionary
The Prodigy perfectly ticks the
‘coffee-chocolate’ Pinotage,
box for everyday enjoyment,” says
Diemersfontein wine estate
Francois Roode, cellarmaster and
READ THIS: THE LAST HUNT BY DEON MEYER
outside Wellington is proving
winemaker at Diemersfontein.
it’s a no one-trick-pony when
South African staples – bobotie,
“The undisputed champion of South African
it comes to this iconic South
bunny chow and braai – all beg for
crime,” as Wilbur Smith has called Deon Meyer,
African cultivar, with the release
a glass of Pinotage. Its versatility
is back with a cold case for Captain Benny
of a third Pinotage in the range,
makes it a great partner with roast
Griessel and Vaughn Cupido of the Hawks – not
THE PRODIGY. The much-loved
duck, lamb casseroles and even
what they were looking for. And a difficult case
coffee and chocolate notes of the
chocolate soufflé. Serve it slightly
too, surrounded by mystery, lies and evasion.
Original Diemersfontein Pinotage
chilled. R75 per bottle.
The body of Johnson
make it a wine worth savouring.
Johnson, ex-cop, has been found by the side of a railway
16
line. He appears to
progress and others are intent on
have jumped from
muddying the waters. Meanwhile
the world’s most
in Bordeaux, Daniel Darret is
luxurious train,
settled in a new life on a different
and two suspicious
continent. But his skills as an
a race against time – for the
characters seen
international hit-man are required
Hawks to stop the assassination,
with him have
one more time, and Daniel is given
for Daniel to evade the relentless
disappeared into
no choice in the matter. He must
Russian agents tracking him,
thin air. The regular
hunt again. His prey? The corrupt
for Benny Griessel to survive
police have already
president of his homeland. Two
long enough to finally ask Alexa
failed to make
strands of the same story become
Bernard to marry him... •
SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
Travel …
MY AFRICAN CONQUEST
Cape to Cairo at 18
SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
BOOK EXCERPT
8
0-year-old Julia Albu is an adventurer with a difference – she’s an
octogenarian. At an age when
South African community in Dar
you’re never too old to tackle that
most people are happy to put up
es Salaam and being fed mildly
bucket list.
their feet, Julia drove south to north
hallucinogenic “herbs” by her
across Africa in her trusty Toyota
Ethiopian driver-guide, nothing
her journey from Bahir Dar
Conquest she named Tracy.
deterred 80-year-old Julia from her
to Lalibela, Ethiopia, with her
quest to drive through Africa from
maverick guide, Lucky.
Her adventure began when she called in to her favourite radio
In this excerpt, Julia recounts
the Cape to Cairo.
23–29 NOVEMBER 2017
show with a zany, half-baked idea:
She travelled through 10
“Next year I’m going to be 80 years
African countries, from South
Lucky continued to be a challenge,
old. My car will be 20 years old.
Africa to Egypt (and beyond). Julia
doing things like suddenly stopping
Together we’ll be 100. We’re going
was accompanied by a series of
the car and jumping out, then
to drive to London.” At the time, she
companions who added texture to
getting down in the middle of the
had no idea that it would lead her
her travels: three of her four grown-
road to do push-ups; he constantly
to the adventure of a lifetime.
up children, her son-in-law, and
made muscles and yelled at me to
at least one person who began as a
take photos of him (‘Look at me!
complete stranger and ended up as
Very handsome!’), rather like a
a friend for life.
child trying to get attention, and if
“And what route are you going to take?” “I have no idea. I think I’ll keep to the right.” From helping push a 30-year-
Reminiscing about her long
he saw that I was more interested
and interesting life along the way,
in our surroundings, he would
old Toyota bakkie up a precipitous
and maintaining a bright and
literally jump right in front of my
mountain pass in Malawi to being
upbeat outlook regardless of the
face to get my full focus.
“adopted” by the riotous ex-pat
circumstances, Julia proves that
Continued …
WWW.SILVERDIGEST.CO.ZA
19
T R AV E L
Another of his whims was to
BOOK EXCERPT
got me to chew on some hedge or
autumn hues. Below in the valleys
stop in some of the smallest and
other. I think I did get slightly high
were clusters of houses. Trains
busiest villages, then leave me in
then, which I didn’t notice until
of donkeys loaded with hay were
the car while he went off and had
he encouraged me to walk along
guided by women and children
coffee with (I assume) friends or
a wall overlooking a valley miles
carrying their own bundles, while
family members. Then he’d jump
below. Thinking
back in and roar off down dirt
back, I suspect we
roads in clouds of dust, with me
were both high for
holding my knees and yelling,
most of the time,
‘Stop, Lucky!’
actually.
While Lucky drove, wafts of
Again and
schoolchildren made
“
their way through the dust in their pristine
When I asked him outright, ‘Lucky, what are you smoking?’ he told me it was a medicinal herb, and even got me to chew on some
uniforms. In some cases, the donkeys were more heavily
dagga waved over me, giving me
again, on the
that giggle you get from sitting
310-kilometre
next to someone who starts his
drive to Lalibela,
day with it, although Lucky kept
I regretted not
insisting that I was the high one. At
having someone
one point he even accused me of
with me (but not
drinking – I am generally as sober
Lucky!) with whom
as a judge, and in fact our whole
I’d be able to share
family seldom touches alcohol
the experience
(aside, of course, from what goes
without having
into our Christmas pudding and
to say a word. Every inch of the
this beautiful country also worked
the accompanying brandy butter).
mountain passes and the plains
harder than anything I’d ever seen,
When I asked him outright, ‘Lucky,
seemed to be under sorghum; I
with the children being taught
what are you smoking?’ he told me
never knew it grew in so many
from about the age of seven to tend
it was a medicinal herb, and even
colours, from shades of white to
to the cattle.
”
laden than any I’d never seen – I was ready to phone the SPCA but one of my hosts assured me that although the people worked the donkeys hard, they were looked after. The people in
Continued …
20
SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
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T R AV E L
BOOK EXCERPT
They had a brilliant system, where the younger children went to school in the morning, and in the afternoon learnt about tending to the animals, while the older children did the opposite. In this way, everyone got an education and also learnt to take care of a family.
it with me. Not wanting to be
Apart from the frequent tea
rude, and with knees crackling
and found Professor Zegeye sitting waiting for me again, but
stops, we shot on. At one stage
like a breakfast cereal, I crouched
this time with three of his learned
we saw winding down the road
down and, to surrounding
colleagues. They’d heard I had a
towards us a group of women with
applause, ate god knows what.
problem, these wise and earnest
such amazing hairstyles that we
Somewhere along the road
screeched to a halt and I (sort of)
Katherine had booked us into
had heard that I needed something
leapt out of Tracy frantically
a church hostel. Staying in the
sorted out.
waving suckers, pens and chocolate biscuits.
READER GIVEAWAY
monasteries in Ethiopia was
Silver Digest has two copies of Julia Albu's My African Conquest: Cape to Cairo at 80 to give away to our readers. To stand a chance to win one, send an email to info@silverdigest.co.za with My African Conquest in the subject line.
They shyly came over to us and although we couldn’t really communicate because of the language barrier, we quite happily got along
wonderful – they were warm
men told me with quiet concern; they
They were the most cosy, charming men who would do
and safe, and with hot
anything to help a damsel in distress
running water. And of course
(that damsel being me). They were
every church was decorated
to become my guardian angels and
with abundant and colourful
as such I christened them Matthew,
murals, frescos or paintings. This one, although very spartan,
Mark, Luke and John. I poured out my heart to them, telling them of my
in smiles, the international
was very clean. It was full of
problems with and concerns about
language of friendship.
backpackers, so I was shown to
my guide, Lucky.
One of the women was carrying a rather grubby-looking bundle which she lay on the ground and
a small but clean room with a balcony looking at the mountains. I was told that there was a
The solution, they said, after much backwards and forwards between the four of them, was to
opened, producing some rather
gentleman waiting for me and went
simply pay him what I owed him,
unsavoury-looking edible. She
downstairs to find a good-looking
plus his bus fare back to Addis
indicated that she wanted to share
man with lovely manners who
Ababa. I agreed, but I didn’t want to
introduced himself as Professor
just sack Lucky, because the bush
Abebe Zegeye. He lived in the
telegraph was frighteningly efficient
relatively nearby town of Woldia
and I had my reputation to look after;
with his partner Rachel Browne,
and, anyway, I needed him to get me
who was originally from Cape
to Woldia.
“
We quite happily got along in smiles, the international language of friendship
22
”
SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
Town, he told me, and he invited me to stay with them there. The next morning I came down
So I was stuck with my troublesome guide for the time being. •
T R AV E L
DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF THE
Karoo
The dry windmill-dotted expanse of semi desert at the heart of South Africa’s interior provides opportunities for fascinating discoveries, restorative escapes and foodie delights
24
SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
LOCAL
T
he vast arid scrubland of the Karoo contains volumes. Its dry, apparently
featureless expanse has always held a forbidding place in the national consciousness – possibly because of the way in which its harsh conditions seems to form a barrier to the north of the Cape, which seemed impossible to traverse before the advent of roads and railways. Even now, it’s often a landscape people pass through, rather than a destination. The apparent emptiness of its wide-open plains, deep
Here are four highlights of the Karoo:
valleys, canyons and escarpment,
SUTHERLAND Famously the coldest place in the whole of South Africa,
however, belie not only an
MATJIESFONTEIN
where snow is a common annual
incredibly rich natural history
It seems as if time has stood still
occurrence, sleepy Sutherland
and fascinating human heritage,
in this railway village, with its
is notable around the world as
but, to the accustomed eye, also
distinctive Victorian architecture,
an astronomical observatory
reveal a unique sense of beauty
train station and perfectly
with state-of-the-art telescopes,
and tranquillity that make it the
preserved historic Lord Milner
including SALT (Southern African
perfect antidote to the frenetic
Hotel. Established in the late 1800s
Large Telescope), the southern
pace of urban life: a place of almost
as a health resort in a little oasis
spiritual peace and a promise of a
in the semi desert, the
more authentic life.
entire village has been
The Karoo’s ancient fossil beds
hemisphere’s largest single optical telescope. Its unpolluted air and
declared a National
crystal-clear
are among the richest and most
Heritage Site, so
important in the world. Its diverse
it’s essentially a
conditions
flora and fauna are quite unique. The
living museum.
for amateur
clear dark skies of Sutherland reveal
The historic Trans
stargazers
depths of the universe to stargazers
Karoo railway
peering into the
that would be invisible anywhere
line dates back
breath-taking
else in the world. Human history is
to a time before
night sky and
everywhere, too, from the cave walls
the Anglo-Boer
revealing ancient rock art to the
War, connecting
historical remnants of the Boer War.
fortune seekers to the
But perhaps what makes the huge
interior where they sought
hinterland of South Africa’s interior
diamonds and gold. Later, the
a fascinating and rewarding travel
railways were crucial to help move
for its botanical tours and the
destination are not just the dramatic
soldiers and supplies during the
nearby Rooiberg mountains of
landscapes, fascinating sites and
war. The trains still pass through,
the Karoo highlands provide an
spectacular mountain passes, but
and you can also take a ride on
appropriately dramatic setting,
the little villages dotted throughout
the Old London Bus, or explore
while Karoo hospitality and
the uninhabited landscape filled
local history in the Transport and
famous lamb dishes are available
with character, creative and
Victoriana museums, and step
in several of the quaint Victorian
culinary delights.
back in time for dinner at the hotel.
buildings.
skies make ideal
for scientists unlocking the mysteries of the universe alike. The surrounding area is renowned
WWW.SILVERDIGEST.CO.ZA
Continued …
25
T R AV E L
PRINCE ALBERT Prince Albert acts as a kind of gateway to the Karoo, with its country charm and beautiful surroundings enabled by a perennial spring that sustains its lush gardens, vineyards and fruit orchards. Beautifully preserved Cape Dutch and Victorian buildings deliver character by the bucketload, but perhaps more than anything, Prince Albert has become known as a culinary destination with its own unique regional character. Of course, the gorgeous Karoo lamb is at the heart of the cuisine, but olives, wine, cheese, dried fruit and more abound. In fact, cooking tours and holidays have become a key attraction as this burgeoning little village has become established not just as a getaway, but as a permanent home for many escapees of the
LOCAL
urban rat race, who relocate here
certain sections. Needless to
to soak up the rural lifestyle.
say, the scenery and views are
Prince Albert is also famous for
breath-taking – a photographer’s
its champion Angora goats, which
dream, especially the famous
make it the epicentre of the South
four hairpin bends that have
African mohair industry, so you’ll
become the pass’s most famous
find the most beautiful mohair
icon. The turnoff to Gamkaskloof/
products here too.
Die Hel (where you should book overnight accommodation if you’re
SWARTBERG PASS
considering taking this route)
The scenic entry to Prince Albert,
provides the possibility of more
which is just 4km from the northern end of the pass with its zigzags and switchbacks, is deserving of and
iconic photos of the road winding through the spectacular geological formations. An alternative though the Swartberg Mountain range is Meiringspoort, a tarred
entry all on its
link between the Great and
own. The pass
Small Karoo over the Swartberg
itself is a national
mountains, with its own delights. •
monument, its historical significance as roadbuilder Thomas Bain’s last and greatest achievement of engineering and construction (realised with the labour of convicts). Packed stone retaining walls line the untarred roads along
Landscape Tours has specialised in senior travel since 1989 and its mission is to provide efficient, effective and friendly, fully inclusive service to their clients, taking the stress and inconvenience out of touring, while always keeping your comfort and safety in mind. Landscape Tours has several planned tours of the Karoo region, including their Karoo Foodie Tour (2 April and 18 September), Prince Albert and the Swartberg (15 May and 16 October), Route 62 (12 March, 5 April, 5 May, 16 October) and Karoo Skies (16 February, 29 March, 8 November). Unless specified, each tour is accompanied throughout by a friendly and professional Landscape tour leader, assisted by local guides where required. For more information, go to www.landscapetours.co.za
26
SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
book • pack • explore
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Interview …
‘EVERYBODY KNEW THE RUSSIAN EMPRESSES HAD LOVERS’ BY VICKY DEARDEN/HOTFEATURES
D
ame Helen Mirren returns
transformed its place in the
to TV in the epic new
world in the 18th century. The
drama Catherine the Great.
four-part historical drama
Here she talks about her new role,
follows the end of Catherine’s
her Russian roots, her incredible
reign and her affair with
career spanning five decades, her
Russian military leader
international breakthrough with
Grigory Potemkin, which
Prime Suspect, and more…
shaped the future of
British actress Helen Mirren
Russian politics.
first came to international recognition via the small screen, thanks to her role as DCI Jane Tennison in the hugely popular series Prime Suspect. On the big screen, she has appeared in over 60 films and won an Oscar in 2007 for her portrayal as Queen Elizabeth II in The Queen. (She also won four Emmys, including one in 2006 for TV mini-series Elizabeth I.) She returns to royalty with Catherine the Great, playing the tumultuous monarch and politician who ruled the Russian empire and
28
SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
Helen Mirren attends the Los Angeles premiere of the new HBO limited series Catherine the Great at the Hammer Museum on October 17, 2019 in Los Angeles, California.
HELEN MIRREN
MANY PEOPLE DON’T KNOW MUCH ABOUT CATHERINE THE GREAT, EXCEPT THAT SHE HAD A LOT OF SEX? HELEN MIRREN: That is a complete calumny thrown at her by history, I think, because history really doesn’t like successful, powerful women. I hope we are going to re-instate her reputation as the incredible leader that she was. I’m not saying she didn’t have her faults. She made mistakes and finished up quite tyrannical, but she was originally a reformer of this vast, vast country.
PHOTOS: JEFF KRAVITZ/FILMMAGIC FOR HBO, DAVID M. BENETT/DAVE BENETT/GETTY IMAGES FOR SKY
SHE WASN’T RUSSIAN BY BIRTH, OR WAS SHE? HM: She was German. But she came to Russia at the age of 15 and married, I think, at 16 and learnt Russian. [She was a] prodigious
attitude to sex was so different.
writer. She’d get up at five ‘o’clock
The Russian Empresses behaved
every morning and write for two or
like men, like Louis XIV. They had
three hours. Her letters [are] funny,
lovers and everybody knew they
interested, curious. [She] spoke
had lovers. It was an accepted
five or six languages – she was
part of their culture – that’s so not
extraordinary. She was definitely
British [laughs].
on a par with Elizabeth I in terms
Dame Helen Mirren and Jason Clarke attend the premiere screening of new Sky Atlantic drama Catherine the Great at The Curzon Mayfair on September 25, 2019 in London, England.
WHERE WAS IT SHOT? THE PALACES LOOK AMAZING. HM: We shot a lot of it in Russia, in St. Petersburg. Catherine’s palace [is] actually Catherine I’s palace, incredibly renovated by the Bolsheviks, interestingly.
and position at all. I find it quite
YOU GREW UP IN ESSEX BUT YOU HAVE RUSSIAN ROOTS. YOUR GRANDFATHER WAS AN OFFICER IN THE IMPERIAL RUSSIAN ARMY AND YOU SPEAK IN YOUR MEMOIR ABOUT FINDING A TRUNK OF HIS?
I was much earlier, but
hard to get my head around that
HM: Yes, it was actually his old
Catherine’s world was just so
because I’m so used to British
military trunk that I guess he went
different. And before Catherine
history and women being treated
on campaigns with. It was very
was Elizabeth, her mother-in-
very differently from men:
battered, covered in paint splodges.
law, and before Elizabeth was
men being allowed lovers and
My father used it to paint pots on.
Catherine I – and they all had
mistresses, but if a woman has a
of intellect.
HOW DIFFERENT WAS IT PLAYING A RUSSIAN QUEEN HAVING PLAYED BRITISH QUEENS? HM: Well, of course Elizabeth
a series of lovers. The whole
SHE DIDN’T HAVE TO DO THE WHOLE VIRGIN QUEEN SHTICK? HM: She had four children by I think four different men. But it didn’t impinge upon her power
Continued …
lover she gets executed. WWW.SILVERDIGEST.CO.ZA
29
INTERVIEW Actress Helen Mirren and actor Alan Rickman perform in William Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra at the Royal National Theatre.
six sisters behind in Russia, and so
BECAUSE IT WOULD HAVE BEEN TOO DANGEROUS FOR YOUR FAMILY?
there are all these letters written in a
HM: Yes, I suspect.
my grandfather’s sisters. He left
very fine Russian script. When I did Russian speaking, and he translated them for me. That was an amazing
HM: Yes, and my father. To
moment of discovery, opening a
this day, it’s the one thing that
door onto the past of my family…
immigrant people can do, even if
[Our name was originally] Mironoff.
they have very bad English.
We did change it eventually –
I went to Russia [was] in the late sixties with the Royal Shakespeare
HM: I didn’t know that the Youth
Company, one of the very early
Theatre existed. She perceived my
artistic cultural exchanges. My
interest in drama and literature.
father said to me that I [should]
She said, “You know, there’s this
not tell them that I was of Russian
organisation called the Youth
ethnicity or part-Russian or try and
Theatre and maybe we should
get in touch with anyone.
apply for it.” And I did.
A lot of people think I’m Scottish because of St Mirren’s. The first time
Stars of the Royal Shakespeare Company, actor Eric Porter and actress Helen Mirren, at London Airport, London, 1969.
30
SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
IT WAS YOUR ENGLISH TEACHER IN SCHOOL WHO SUGGESTED YOU JOIN THE NATIONAL YOUTH THEATRE?
knocked the ‘off’ off the end [laughs].
Helen Mirren arrives at the 91st Annual Academy Awards at Hollywood and Highland on February 24, 2019 in Hollywood, California.
YOUR GRANDFATHER BECAME A TAXI DRIVER, RIGHT?
Prime Suspect, one of the actors was
PHOTOS: LARRY ELLIS COLLECTION, ROBBIE JACK/CORBIS VIA GETTY IMAGES, PHOTO BY BRUCE GLIKAS/FILMMAGIC, HULTON-DEUTSCH COLLECTION/CORBIS/CORBIS VIA GETTY IMAGES AND PAUL SMITH/FEATUREFLASH
But inside were a lot of letters from
HELEN MIRREN English actor Helen Mirren pictured at a press launch for the new series of the Granada Television police series Prime Suspect at the Ritz Hotel in London in January 1995. Helen Mirren plays the role of Jane Tennison in the series.
YOU CUT YOUR HAIR SHORT FOR THAT ROLE AS WELL? HM: The short hair was very important because if you have long hair you can be grabbed by the hair. If policewomen have long hair, they usually have it tied back. And they never fold their arms because folding
TOWARDS THE END OF YOUR TIME THERE YOU PLAYED CLEOPATRA, WHICH WAS A REAL BREAKTHROUGH, BECAUSE THE ROYAL SHAKESPEARE COMPANY SAW YOU AND YOU WERE OFFERED A JOB?
day, every day, week after week
your arms is a defensive thing to do –
after week, that I really came to
that was what a policewoman told me.
HM: They had heard of me because
then we had different writers for
Antony and Cleopatra had been
DID YOU HAVE A CLEAR IDEA OF WHERE YOU WANTED TO GO WITH YOUR CAREER WHEN YOU WERE STARTING OUT?
reviewed, so I think the RSC had
HM: No, I just did work that
the writers to be absolutely free to
alerted themselves to my existence.
interested me and hoped for
tell whatever story they wanted, and
the best.
because of that I think the quality
[in those days] the Youth Theatre got reviews in the national papers.
THEN YOU STARTED GETTING YOUR FIRST TELEVISION ROLES. HOW DIFFICULT WAS IT ADAPTING TO SCREEN WORK AFTER BEING TRAINED ON THE STAGE?
understand what the dolly does,
all of those very, very important
WHAT WAS IT LIKE TO HAVE THE SAME CHARACTER TO DEVELOP OVER SO MANY YEARS?
technical parts of filming.
HM: That was extraordinary. Linda
how important continuity is, how important hitting your mark is and
wrote the first two [episodes] and the rest. I got into a position where I could have a voice in the writers and the directors. And I always wanted
of the writing was very, very good
HM: For a long, long time I thought
PRIME SUSPECT WAS REALLY THE FIRST BIG FEMALE DETECTIVE ROLE, AND IT WAS ALSO AN ALL-FEMALE TEAM OF WRITER AND PRODUCER, WASN’T IT?
I was awful. I always called it
HM: It wouldn’t have happened
“rabbit in the headlights” acting.
without Linda [La Plante]. Linda
It’s much easier for kids now
was really an extraordinary
because they all film themselves.
writer and she believed in the
They are used to being filmed,
power of women. She believed
[but] a camera was a terrifying
there weren’t enough roles for
thing to me, and it took me an
women and her work broke that.
awfully long time to get used to
It was [one of] the first scripts I’d
it. The thing that taught me how
ever read, except maybe Cousin
to work on film, wasn’t working
Bette, which was actually my very
on film. It wasn’t until Prime
first TV role, I think, where the
Suspect, when I was working all
women actually drive the story.
in general. We [also] had some great directors. Philip Martin did one, who I just did Catherine with, Tom Hooper did one.
Dame Helen Mirren takes her curtain call as Queen Elizabeth at The Opening Night of The Audience on Broadway at The Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre on March 8, 2015 in New York City.
WWW.SILVERDIGEST.CO.ZA
31
INTERVIEW
HELEN MIRREN
AND TOM HOOPER WENT ON TO DIRECT YOU IN ELIZABETH I?
Next time you watch television or
HM: Yes, he is a top film
then count the number of women
FINALLY, WHAT’S THE ONE THING YOU WOULD TELL YOURSELF AS A 21-YEAROLD ACTRESS?
director now.
you see. I used to sit with a piece of
HM: Just be open; be open to
paper watching television with a
experience. My advice to any
IN 2005 YOU STARRED IN A TWO-PART MINI-SERIES ABOUT ELIZABETH I. QUITE A LOT OF THE SCRIPT WAS HER WORDS, WASN’T IT?
pencil and every time I saw a man,
[young] actor is be on time. This is
didn’t matter what he was doing,
the weird contradiction of being
I’d just put a mark – man, man,
an actor. You have to have ego,
man, man, woman, man, man,
you have to have a certain kind of
man… [laughs]. We’re 50 percent
self-confidence, but at the same
HM: It was and that was the
of the population, why do I have
time that can lead you into being
brilliance of Nigel Williams, who
to watch drama where I’m not
an idiot. So, you have to calibrate
wrote the script. It was such a
represented? Old, young, middle-
that: somehow have confidence,
difficult thing to do, to make
aged, whatever – why aren’t we
have courage, go where others
dialogue between characters
there? So, thank god, times have
fear to tread, be bold, be brave, be
believable and understandable
changed, but they haven’t gone far
… but at the same time be able to
enough in my mind. Not yet.
weave in authentic and original
go to the cinema, just count the number of men on the screen and
beautiful in your soul – and be on time [laughs]. •
Elizabethan dialogue, which Nigel did. It was a brilliant, brilliant piece of work. And he wrote Catherine, so I was very happy to work with him again.
STARTING OUT, WHAT WAS YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE IN THIS INDUSTRY AS A WOMAN? AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THAT OVER TIME? HM: My biggest challenge as a woman starting out was obviously the paucity of roles – and still is. Well, it’s changed enormously. I’m very jealous of young actors coming into this world now because – the women in particular – it’s so much better than it was.
Helen Mirren accepts Best Actress in a Leading Role award for The Queen at the Kodak Theatre in Los Angeles, California on February 25, 2007
32
SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK
But it’s still kind of not very fair.
WWW.SILVERDIGEST.CO.ZA
33
Money …
INVESTING OFFSHORE NOT WHEN BY PIETER KOEKEMOER, HEAD OF PERSONAL INVESTMENTS, CORONATION
International assets improve
performances. Another point to
your portfolio by diversifying
ponder is how US equity market
economical, jurisdictional,
returns dominated over the past
currency, industry and company-
decade. There is no guarantee
ith persisting
specific risks, without necessarily
that this outcome will be repeated
uncertainty around our
reducing one’s expected long-
over the next decade, especially
country’s economic
term returns.
considering the high valuations
W
future, we understand that many
Just consider the growth
base in the US.
South Africans may feel unsettled
opportunities available through
about their own financial futures.
the more than 5 000 investable
At Coronation, we believe that
shares in the global universe that
ACCESSING INTERNATIONAL ASSETS WITH CORONATION
no matter the current market
are not available in the local equity
1. The hassle-free option
sentiment, it’s always a good time
market, which consists of only 160
Investors in Coronation’s
to consider the long-term benefits
investable shares.
multi-asset funds already have considerable offshore
of owning a balanced portfolio of
exposure. This is due to these
assets. It’s not a question of when
NO ASSET CLASS WINS ALL THE TIME
to invest offshore, but rather how.
While much of the current
consisting of both direct offshore
emphasis is on how global markets
exposure and indirect exposure
THE VALUE OF OFFSHORE DIVERSIFICATION
performed better than the local
(being the portion of the value
market over the past decade, this
we place on local shares that
From a young age we are taught
has not always been the case. Over
originate from economic activity
not to put all our eggs in one
the past 20 years, the local market
outside our country’s borders).
basket. This truism stems from
materially outperformed global
We believe multi-asset funds
the value of diversification, which
equity markets, as the outcomes
provide the easiest way to
is the key benefit of having at least
through most of the 2000s were
enjoy hassle-free international
some of your assets offshore.
very different to their more recent
exposure, as you mandate
both international and domestic
34
SILVER DIGEST //SUMMER 2019
funds’ international allocation
MONEY
YOUR RANDS IS ABOUT HOW High on the agenda of many dinner conversations these days is the topic of investing offshore. Pieter Koekemoer, Head of Personal Investments at Coronation, says it’s not a question of when to invest offshore, but how.
the skilled fund manager to
remaining easy to use and access
added benefit of jurisdictional
manage the size of the effective
as they are operated from South
diversification. This route
international allocation on
Africa. While the funds provide full
is more complex, as you are
your behalf. It is also easy to
economic diversification, they still
dealing with cross-border
draw an income from these
operate under the laws of South
banking and you may have to
funds. They are accessible
Africa and therefore do not provide
apply for SARS clearance if you
with low minimum investment
diversification of jurisdictional
want to invest more than R1m
requirements and can be used in
risk, such as exchange controls,
in a given year.
living annuity portfolios.
which limit the amount that any
2. If you want to further
investment manager can invest
REASON MUST BE YOUR GUIDE
diversify your risk
outside of South Africa on behalf
When it comes to investing
By living and owning a home in
of clients.
offshore, the message is to cut
South Africa, you already have
3. If you want to achieve economic
through the media hype of doom
significant country-specific
and jurisdictional diversification
and gloom, and to keep your eye
risk, arguing for an additional
If you have sizeable assets
on your goals when allocating
international allocation. If
available for offshore investing,
to international assets. It is also
you have discretionary (non-
you can externalise your rands
useful to avoid the myopia of the
retirement) savings with
and invest in a fund incorporated
moment and take some time to
which you want to further
in another country. In this
consider the bigger picture.
diversify your risk, you can
case, the laws of the country
consider investing in a rand-
of incorporation governs your
market returns, it becomes
denominated international
investment. Coronation offers a
evident that investing is about
fund such as Coronation Global
range of funds incorporated in
well-considered diversification
Managed and Coronation
Ireland. While these funds have
across asset classes and
Optimum Growth. These funds
the same economic exposure
geographies rather than extreme,
allocate all or most assets to
as the rand-denominated
sentiment-driven moves between
international investments, while
international funds, it provides the
local and global assets. •
When you unpack historical
WWW.SILVERDIGEST.CO.ZA
35
MONEY
EARLY RETIREMENT IS TEMPTING – BUT CAN YOU AFFORD IT? BY KERRY KING, ADVISORY PARTNER, CITADEL
T
he temptation to retire
GRAPH 1
seductive as you enter your fifties
THE EXPONENTIAL BENEFITS OF DELAYING RETIREMENT ON SAVINGS
and sixties, especially after many
If a 4% withdrawal rate will not
years spent with your nose to the
provide you with sufficient income,
grindstone. But can you afford it?
it may be worth giving serious
early and adopt a life of leisure can be particularly
There are two main drivers that determine if early retirement is even an option for you. They are:
consideration to delaying your GRAPH 2
• How much capital you have,
retirement. Remember, your salary and therefore retirement contributions
and
are usually at their peak in the
• How much you need to draw to
years just before your retirement,
sustain your standard of living.
and when combined with the added effect of delaying dipping
Clients often ask us, “How
into your capital, these last few
much capital will I need to retire?” The answer is directly related
years can make a huge difference To demonstrate the significance
to how much you require on a
of this, graph 1 shows how
monthly basis to sustain your
withdrawal rates affect how long
current standard of living.
your capital will last.
One of the very basic
The graph is based on the
to your portfolio through the power of compounding. To demonstrate the enormous impact of an extra few years on your savings, graph 2 compares
calculations I give my clients is
example of an individual who
three scenarios involving the same
to take their current monthly
retires at 55 years with capital of
investor who has accumulated a
expenditure, divide this number
R10m, and further assumes that
R10m capital lump sum at age 55
by four and multiply it by R1m.
inflation rises by 6.0% per annum
years.
This calculation works when you
and that their investment achieves
are still trying to accumulate
annual growth of 8.5%.
your capital and need to set a retirement savings target. If you are already at retirement
By keeping their withdrawal rate to 4%, their retirement capital
1
RETIRES AT 55 YEARS In the first scenario, the
individual retires at the age of 55
would sustain them until the age
years, and chooses to adopt a 5%
age, however, ensuring that
of 95. However, by increasing their
annual withdrawal rate. Assuming
your capital will last your entire
withdrawal rate to 4.5%, their
that inflation rises by 6% every
lifetime, which is generally
capital would be depleted by the
year and that their investment
unknown, becomes more
age of 87. A 6% withdrawal rate
achieves growth of 8.5% every year
important. To be conservative, I
would mean that their capital
(or 2.5% real growth), their capital
would suggest that you draw no
would run out at the age of 77 –
would be depleted at the age of 83.
more than 4% of your retirement
nearly twenty years earlier than
capital on an annual basis.
had they stuck to 4%.
36
SILVER DIGEST //SUMMER 2019
Continued …
SURANCE
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MONEY
2
DELAYS RETIREMENT UNTIL AGE 60, DOES NOT ADD TO CAPITAL In the second scenario, the
the R10m they would have retired with had they retired early at the age of 55. Given the increase in their
WHAT ELSE DO YOU NEED TO CONSIDER? • Inflation
individual chooses to delay their
retirement capital, the individual
Inflation is a key risk that
retirement for five years, or until
then chooses to draw down only
needs to be factored in when
the age of 60. However, instead of
2.5% a year on their capital for
examining whether you have
working full time, they choose to
their income, increasing this
enough to retire. With future
slow down and cut back on their
amount by 5% each year to
inflation an unknown – and
hours, meaning they only earn
keep up with inflation.
sufficient income to cover their
This means that their capital
impacted by variables beyond our control, such as the
monthly costs. They do not add or
would last until they are 105 – in
withdraw any amounts from their
today’s era, a more likely age
retirement pot during this time, but
for the individual to reach
absolutely key.
their capital continues to achieve
than the 83 years outlined
Many people allow
real growth of 2.5% after inflation.
in the first scenario.
for a 4% increase
Even without making any
rand exchange rate – having a buffer is
It’s therefore vital to
in spending per
additional contributions, by
make sure that you’ve done
year to account
choosing to delay their retirement
all the proper planning and
for inflation, but
and simply allowing their capital
calculations before you take
for many of our
to grow for an additional five
the big step, not forgetting to add
years without eating into it, their
a buffer for any emergencies
their inflation rate is actually
retirement savings would then
or unexpected expenses. It’s
closer to 10%, meaning that
comfortably last until the age of
important that you don’t rush
they’ve had to dip into their
94 – even assuming the same 5%
such a big decision, and rather
savings more than they had
withdrawal rate, but at a later date,
take the time to consider all the
as the first scenario.
implications before you opt to retire early.
3
wealthy clients,
originally anticipated. • Is your pension/provident fund appropriately
DELAYS RETIREMENT UNTIL AGE 65, CONTINUES TO SAVE
employable when you are already
There are many companies
employed, so it could be difficult to
that use life-staging analysis
In the third scenario, the individual
re-enter the job market in 10 years
when performing retirement
continues to work until the
if you realise that your money may
planning for employees and,
age of 65, and also chooses to
be running out. Also remember
as employees approach their
keep contributing towards their
that advancements in medical
retirement, an increasing
retirement savings in order to
technology and healthier lifestyles
portion of their pension or
increase their capital base to a
mean that people are increasingly
provident fund is moved
greater degree.
living to 90 and even 100 years old.
into cash. However, cash
However, if you are desperate
investments do not offer
Assume that this individual
For instance, you are most
diversified?
adds just R5 000 per month to their
to escape the daily grind, rather
inflation-beating returns
investments while still working,
consider cutting down your
over the long term. Engage
and that the capital also sees real
working hours or look for a less
the services of a professional
growth of 2.5% a year, their capital
strenuous position, even at a lower
financial advisor sooner rather
base would grow to over R11.5m by
salary, simply to cover your current
than later to check on your
the time they retire ay 65 years – a
living expenses and avoid falling
behalf that your retirement
R1.5m increase in real terms from
back on your savings.
savings are appropriately
38
SILVER DIGEST //SUMMER 2019
MONEY
diversified, and that your capital should continue to achieve real returns and growth above inflation. • Outstanding debts Another important point to consider is whether you have any outstanding debt that still need to be paid. Monthly vehicle repayments,
CONSERVATIVE FUND OF FUNDS SUITABLE FOR RETIREMENT SAVINGS BY LUIGI MARINUS, PORTFOLIO MANAGER AT PPS INVESTMENTS
you retire could therefore
A
Conservative Fund of Funds is
task of determining the next
rolling three-year periods. The
make a huge difference to
steps to secure a comfortable
fund is defensive in nature and
your monthly expenses and
retirement. Broadly speaking, you
suitable for investors with a low
thus your draw from your
will be faced with making critical
risk tolerance and medium-term
pension fund.
decisions, and you will have to
investment horizon.
• Future cashflow
consult your financial adviser
for instance, could eat into your capital very quickly. Concentrating your focus on repaying any debt before
s you reach your
The aim of the PPS
retirement age, it can be an exciting and daunting
to achieve inflation +2% over
The fund has a combined
While no one can predict
and review your circumstances to
maximum allowance of up to
how long they may live or
determine your unique retirement
40% exposure to domestic and
how markets may change, a
financial needs and the best
global equities, and a maximum
professional financial advisor
approach to meet those needs.
allowance of 25% to property.
should be able to identify
Making financial resolutions
This means that there is a
whether you may be running
and planning ahead allows you
large exposure to fixed interest
out of money 10 or 15 years
to reap the benefits later. In
securities all the time, which
ahead of time, while you still
combination with other long-term
reinforces the defensive nature of
have time to adjust your lifestyle
investment plans, investing in
the fund. The maximum offshore
and spending.
multi-assets can optimise your
exposure is up to 30%, with an
investment strategy and generate
additional allowance of 10% for
long-term returns for you.
investments in Africa.
It can be extremely difficult to identify potential problems with
The PPS Conservative Fund
your future cashflow yourself,
of Funds is a multi-asset low-
and the chances are you might
equity unit trust that is managed
realise you have a problem too
according to Regulation 28 of the
late. That’s why it’s absolutely
Pension Funds Act, and therefore
crucial to engage the services of a
is a suitable vehicle for retirement
professional to do the calculations
savings.
Continued …
and necessary planning on your behalf, both before and during your retirement. •
This article first appeared on MoneyMarketing.co.za, 22 October 2019
WWW.SILVERDIGEST.CO.ZA
39
MONEY
Even though equity markets have more recently largely been
ESTIMATED GROWTH OF R100 000 INVESTED WITH ALL DISTRIBUTIONS REINVESTED (FOR ILLUSTRATIVE PURPOSES ONLY).
range bound, the returns for the PPS Conservative Fund of Funds have been competitive relative to peers and achieved the inflation benchmark. Importantly for a defensive fund of this nature, the returns have been achieved at a level of volatility noticeably lower than the peers. As the primary benchmark of the fund is inflation based, the allowance for the specialist building block component is 50 to 75% of the total fund. This allows for more emphasis on targeting inflation.
Source: PPS Investments
Over shorter time periods, tactical asset allocation is performed to take advantage of
average over time.
Local bonds, global equities
relative mispricing of the asset
The allocation between
classes. A monthly house view
the specialist building block
overweight, domestic property
meeting assesses each asset class
component and the multi-
is underweight, while global
based primarily on valuation,
asset component is based on
bonds are assigned a maximum
macroeconomic factors and
the likelihood of achieving the
underweight rating. Local cash
momentum. The outcome of this
inflation benchmark. The more
does have a neutral rating, but
meeting provides a rating for
likely the various asset classes,
generally acts as the balancing
each asset class that relates to a
and in particular equities, are
allocation. Even though a monthly
maximum overweight, overweight,
to achieve an inflation-beating
meeting is held to deliberate on
neutral, underweight or maximum
return, the greater the exposure
asset allocation, changes to the
underweight allocation.
to the specialist building block
ratings are not done often.
The multi-asset component
component is likely to be.
and global properties are
While we have discussed some
has a 25 to 50% allowance that
The current 50% exposure
insights to empower you to make
is equally weighted between a
to the specialist building
an informed financial decision,
certain number of multi-asset
block component talks to the
it is essential to consult your
low managers. The number of
headwinds facing equities and the
financial adviser for practical
managers is mainly dependent on
low probability assigned to above-
guidance before making any
the modelled interaction between
average returns from the asset
financial decisions that may
these managers. The goal is to
class in the medium term.
affect your ability to reach your
pair managers that differ enough
Within the specialist
to reduce the overall volatility,
component, the current view
while still delivering a return
is that domestic equities
greater than the peer group
has a neutral allocation.
40
SILVER DIGEST //SUMMER 2019
financial objectives. •
This article first appeared on MoneyMarketing.co.za, 1 October 2019
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MONEY
WHAT HAPPENS TO MY RA WHEN I DIE? W
hile still alive, the
which in most cases means that
retirement annuity
the benefits will be paid out to
(RA) member will be
parties.
your appointed beneficiaries
• Step 2: Determining whether
the sole beneficiary of its benefits.
and financial dependants in
or not they are/were truly
“However, if you were to pass away
compliance with the act, without
dependant on the deceased
before accessing your RA benefits,
attracting any estate duty or
on date of allocation of the
then the total fund value becomes
executors’ fees.”
benefit or would have become
payable as a death benefit, of
According to Section 37C of the
dependent had the deceased
which, under current legislation,
Pension Funds Act, there are three
the first R500 000 is tax-free with
types of beneficiaries that may
the balance of the funds taxed
exist on an RA:
allocation of the money that is
according to a sliding scale. If you
• Legal dependants
not passed away.
available. In this process you
• Step 3: Making an equitable
are already drawing a monthly
would include spouses,
will normally find that trustees
sum the availability of any value
fiancées, children (born
would also consider other
and to be born) or parents.
allocations such as the terms of
to be paid to beneficiaries will exclusively be dependent on the
• De facto dependants
a will or other assurance. Minor
type of annuity or pension that
based on the facts of the
children could receive more
was purchased,” says Johan Botha
situation this could be brothers
than major children; some
from Aon South Africa’s Employee
or sisters, their children or a
dependants might be excluded
Benefits division.
third party that the member
due to the greater need of
is supporting financially.
others based on the amount
“According to the Income Tax Act of 1962, an RA is excluded
• Nominees
that is available for distribution
from a person’s estate at the death
a person you would like to
of the member, which is why
nominate as beneficiary but
the nomination of a beneficiary
who is not necessarily
who you support financially
on your retirement annuity is
a dependant.
and who relies on you for their
The Trustees of a retirement
livelihood and daily living costs
vital. The process of allocating
42
• Step 1: Identifying all these
for example. It is very important to consider
benefits will be driven by Section
annuity fund will then be tasked
when you complete your RA
37C of the Pension Funds Act,
with:
nomination form. •
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Health …
I
f you’re a woman, you might not experience the acute chest pain normally associated with
a heart attack. “Getting immediate, appropriate care from your closest emergency room is the single most important thing you can do to lessen the damage of a heart attack,” says Dr Paul Timp, a GP at Mediclinic Morningside. But women sometimes experience atypical symptoms – and either ignore the issue or attribute a heart attack to heartburn or anxiety. “Heart attack symptoms may show up in different ways and can depend on a number of factors, such as whether you’re a man or a woman, what type of heart disease
WHY WOMEN MIGHT NOT KNOW THEY’RE HAVING A HEART ATTACK emergency in which the supply of
HOW DO YOU KNOW (FOR SURE) IF YOU’VE HAD A HEART ATTACK?
blood to the heart becomes blocked,
Once you’re in the emergency
often as the result of a blood clot.
room at the hospital, doctors
Other terms used for a heart attack
will run an electrocardiogram
include myocardial infarction,
(ECG). This test records the
cardiac infarction, and coronary
electrical activity of your heart
thrombosis. An infarction is when
via electrodes attached to
the blood supply to an area is cut
your skin. Because an injured
stroke, Dr Timp recommends
off, and the tissue in that area dies.
heart muscle doesn’t conduct
an annual fasting lipogram to
A heart attack is often confused
electrical impulses normally,
you have and how old you are,” Dr Timp adds. According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa, in some cases, mostly women or people with diabetes, a heart attack can occur without any of the classic Hollywood chest pain. If you are over 40 or have a family history of heart attack or
WHAT IS A HEART ATTACK? A heart attack is a medical
the ECG may show that a heart
measure the exact amount of
with cardiac arrest. While they
different types of cholesterol (and
are both medical emergencies, a
not just the total amount) you
heart attack is the blockage of an
have. A lipogram measures your
artery leading to the heart, and a
total cholesterol, high-density
cardiac arrest involves the heart
heart proteins leak into your
lipoprotein (HDL), low-density
stopping the pumping of blood
blood after a heart attack, a
lipoprotein (LDL) and triglyceride
around the body. Although a heart
blood test will determine the
levels. In general, high levels of
attack can lead to cardiac arrest,
presence of these enzymes. •
HDL and low levels of LDL help
not everyone who suffers a heart
reduce the risk of heart disease.
attack will experience cardiac arrest or need CPR.
44
SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
attack has occurred or is in progress. In addition, because certain
This article first appeared on www.mediclinicinfohub.co.za
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H E A LT H
FIVE IMPORTANT TESTS FOR HEALTHY AGEING W orldwide people are
screenings important. Untreated
factors, and follow-up scans should
living longer. Today,
high blood pressure damages
be performed every year or
125 million people
your bones, brain, eyes, kidneys
every second year.
are aged 80 years or older. Health
and heart, increasing your risk for
check-ups should be done
osteoporosis, strokes, vision loss,
regularly, especially after the age
kidney failure and heart disease.
of 35. Common conditions in older
Have your blood pressure checked
age include hearing loss, cataracts
once a year.
and refractive errors, back and
3
4
EYE SCREENING As you age, eye diseases such
as macular degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma become more common. Screening can preserve
OSTEOPOROSIS SCREENING
and maximise vision. You should
As people age, bone mass is
screened for disorders every two
and dementia. Furthermore, as
lost faster than it’s created. It is
years at least, and every year after
people age, they are more likely to
estimated that half of all women
the age of 60.
experience several conditions at
over age 50 will break a bone
the same time. Regular tests help
because of osteoporosis, and so
you make informed decisions to
will one in four men. Risk factors
enjoy better health for longer.
can include long-term steroid use,
neck pain and osteoarthritis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, depression
1
low body weight, smoking, heavy
have your eyes examined and
5
BLOOD SUGAR TEST As we age, we become more
insulin resistant, often resulting in high blood sugar. High
CHOLESTEROL TEST
alcohol use, a fracture after age 50,
blood-sugar levels mean you
Monitoring and maintaining
or a family history of osteoporosis.
run the risk of developing
healthy levels of cholesterol are
Once you reach 65,
diabetes. Untreated
important in staying healthy. In
you should have
diabetes can destroy your
fact, controlling your cholesterol
a bone mineral
health, causing heart
can add years to your life. High
density exam
disease, kidney failure and
levels of cholesterol can build
regardless of risk
blindness. You should have
up in the arteries and increase
your blood-sugar levels
the risk of heart attack or stroke.
tested annually, or more
Cholesterol levels should be
often if readings tend to
checked at least once every four
be abnormal. •
to six years (or more frequently if you’re at risk for a heart attack). High cholesterol levels can be treated by diet and medications.
2
BLOOD PRESSURE TEST Known as the silent killer,
hypertension (high blood pressure) is rarely accompanied by symptoms, making regular
46
SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
“
This article first appeared in Pharmacy Magazine, September 2019
By 2020, the number of people aged 60 and older will outnumber children younger than five years
”
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For more information on the Beta-gel product Please contact your pharmacy or Beta Pharmaceuticals Tel: 041 378 1189
H E A LT H
BECOMING HEARING IMPAIRED IS A COMMON CONDITION FOR AGING PEOPLE
H
earing loss is the third
travelling through the outer and
cause problems such as dementia,
most common physical
middle ear.
anxiety and depression.
condition in aging people.
• A conductive hearing loss might
There is nothing more frustrating
be temporary or fluctuating and,
than struggling to hear someone
in many cases, can be treated
MARVELLOUS NEW TECHNOLOGY
speak in a noisy environment.
through medication or surgery.
As with most medical diagnosis,
Sometimes, hearing devices like
the earlier a hearing loss is
hearing aids are recommended
identified and corrected, the
for conductive hearing loss.
more effective the results of the
THREE COMMON TYPES OF HEARING LOSS There are many conditions that
• A mixed hearing loss
affect the functioning of the ear.
is when there is a
Different conditions affect different
disorder in the outer
parts of the ear. Depending on the
and/or middle
location of the abnormality in the
ear as well as in
ear, specific types of hearing loss
the inner ear.
can be identified. The different
Sometimes a
disorders of the ear can be grouped
combination
understands that
into three different types of
of factors
those who suffer
hearing loss: sensorineural (SNHL),
(abnormalities) is
conductive hearing loss and mixed
presented which
hearing loss.
affects both the
• A sensorineural hearing loss
outer or middle and
where the Ear Institute can help. Most people with hearing loss can benefit by wearing hearing aids. The Ear Institute
from hearing loss need one defining function from a hearing device: clear,
means there is a disorder in
the inner ear, resulting
the inner ear. Sensorineural
in a mixed hearing loss.
various situations is important,
hearing loss is a cause of
The treatment might therefore
such as restaurants, family time
deafness located in the cochlea
be a combination of medical or
and driving in your car. You need
due to damage to the inner
surgical treatment and the use
hearing aids that can keep up with
ear or auditory nerve. The
of hearing aids.
your lifestyle.
disorder limits sound traveling
48
treatment will be. This is
The consequences of hearing
rich sound. Hearing well in
The Ear Institute offers
from the inner ear to the
loss differ from person to person.
an assortment of discreet,
hearing nerve and brain. A
Most people with a hearing
comfortable hearing aids to suit
sensorineural hearing loss is
impairment can suffer from
every person’s needs and lifestyle.
mostly permanent and requires
some social (e.g. isolation),
The new Marvel multifunctional
the use of hearing devices
psychological (e.g. depression
hearing aid from Phonak, which
like hearing aids or a cochlear
and low self-esteem) and physical
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implant. A conductive hearing
(e.g. loss in balance and risk of
combines modern technology
loss is a disorder in the outer
falling) problems as a result of
with clear, rich sound in various
and/or middle ear. The disorder
their hearing loss. It is especially
listening situations.
limits or prevents sound from
untreated hearing loss that can
SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
With the holiday season almost
H E A LT H upon us, we all look forward to a time of togetherness at family gatherings. Enjoy the magic this holiday season by listening to festive music playing over the radio and participating in conversations with your family and friends without feeling left out or isolated.
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framework on which calcium and other
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minerals are anchored. Collagen fibres
with collagen, you can slow down signs
The friendly colleagues at the Ear Institute will give you their personal attention, providing comfort and the best advice. They
healthy, active lifestyle is the
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goal of many ageing consumers.
impact on reducing joint discomfort and
Essential to achieving this are
stiffness, thus improving mobility.
strong bones and joints. Representing
SONTAL Collagen C contains
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of ageing. SONTAL Collagen will help to
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H E A LT H
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SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
H E A LT H
GET TO GRIPS WITH GOUT A form of arthritis, gout causes pain and discomfort in the joints
G
out is an excruciatingly
The following are
painful arthritic joint
characteristic of gout:
inflammation of sudden
• Recurrent: It has a recurrent
onset. It is caused by the formation and deposition of urate
nature and will return again and again.
to the duration of the flare.
• Intense pain: The acute attack
An acute gout attack will
usually begins between 2am
generally reach its peak 12-24
compounds that are not
and 4am. This is due to the
hours after onset, and then will
necessarily harmful. In fact, they
lower body temperature during
slowly begin to resolve even
are part of all human tissue and
the night.
without treatment. Full recovery
crystals in the affected joint. Purines are organic
found in many foods. Purines produce uric acid and uric acid
• Inflammation has the following
from a gout attack (without
components:
treatment) takes approximately
produces urate crystals. Uric
The affected joint is:
acid has two chemical forms
• Red in colour
(tautomers) in which it exists.
• Swollen
assist with the treatment of gout
The one is stable and the other
• Hot
• Cold compress: The application
unstable. The unstable form
• Very sensitive to any touch
7-14 days. The following are used to
of cold compress several times
can form urate crystals that are
• Fatigue and fever
during the day may decrease the
nearly insoluble in water and
• Tophi: Long-standing increased
inflammation and reduce pain. • Rest: To ease the pain during a
deposit themselves in the joints
uric acid levels may result in
to cause gout.
hard, painless deposits of uric
gout attack, rest and elevate the
acid crystals. These deposits are
joint that hurts.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS A common form of arthritis, gout
known as Tophi. Some people have gout attacks
is characterised by recurrent
every few months, while others are
attacks of extreme pain, swelling
luckier and only suffer an attack
and redness. Unlike most other
every few years. Unfortunately,
types of arthritis which develop
as time passes, attacks tend to
slowly, an attack of gout occurs
become more frequent and affect
suddenly, quite literally overnight.
more joints.
Gout can present in different joints, but the first
TREATMENT
metatarsophalangeal joint (big
Pain management is a crucial
toe) is most often affected. Called
part of living with gout. The aim
podagra, it accounts for 50% of all
of gout treatment is to settle the
gout attacks. Other joints, such as
symptoms of the acute attack
the heels, knee, wrist and fingers
quickly and safely. This treatment
may also be affected.
is usually short term and limited
52
SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
PREVENTION
Patients suffering from gout will benefit in the long term from healthy changes to their lifestyle, taking steps to decrease their uric acid level and keeping it low: • Maintain a healthy body weight • Exercise regularly (both muscle-strengthening and cardio) • Cut down on alcohol consumption and avoid binge drinking • Keep hydrated – drink plenty of water • Follow a diet that limits purine-rich foods • Manage high blood pressure • Increase intake of vitamin C-rich foods • Add low-fat dairy products to your diet • Avoid fructose (a type of sugar found in soft drinks, sweets, cookies, etc) • Use aspirin sparingly.
H E A LT H
“
Medicines used to treat acute attacks • NSAIDs: Taken at the beginning of an attack NSAIDs ease pain and help to reduce inflammation. These drugs should be taken with food, as they can erode the lining of the stomach. Care should be taken in elderly people, especially those with kidney problems. NSAIDs reduce the inflammation caused by
A common form of arthritis, gout is characterised by recurrent attacks of extreme pain, swelling and redness
” • Corticosteroids: If NSAIDS
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deposits of uric acid crystals
and colchicine are ineffective,
failure, or the plug being accidentally pulled
but have no effect on the
sufferers should see their
out. An anti-trap sensor prevents anything
amount of uric acid in the
general practitioner who can
from getting caught in the chair’s mechanism.
body. Do not use aspirin as it
prescribe corticosteroids. The
may change uric acid levels in
drugs can be administered orally
prevents loss or damage
the blood and may make the
or injected directly into the
to the controller, and
attack worse.
inflamed joint. Corticosteroids
there are two convenient
can be prescribed to patients
side pockets for easy
however it is often effective
who have accompanying
storage. Easily removable
at decreasing inflammation
kidney, liver or gastrointestinal
caused by the crystals
problems. Corticosteroids
interacting with the joint lining.
usually provide rapid relief
There is usually a dramatic
from gout symptoms. However,
response to oral colchicine.
because of their potential side
Joint pain generally begins
effects if used for a long time,
to subside after 12 hours of
corticosteroids are usually
treatment and is gone within
prescribed only for a short time.•
• Colchicine isn’t a painkiller,
A stitched handset holder
protective headrest and armrest covers make it easy to clean. •
36-48 hours. A low daily dose of colchicines can prevent future attacks.
This article first appeared in the October 2019 issue of Pharmacy Magazine.
WWW.SILVERDIGEST.CO.ZA
53
Leisure …
MEET BLESSING NGOBENI, STANDARD BANK YOUNG ARTIST 2020 Young Artist for Art,
T
far, the artist cites his tumultuous
Blessing Ngobeni, is proof
past as both a marker for growth
that above all else, innovation
and an example of the ability to
and perseverance will see you
succeed as an artist regardless
come out on top, no matter your
of your academic or economic
background.
background.
he 2020 Standard Bank
Born in Tzaneen, Limpopo,
Discussing his journey thus
“From then until now so much
Ngobeni lived through a difficult
has happened,” says Ngobeni.
childhood and subsequently ran
“From the Reinhold Cassirer Art
away to Johannesburg at the age
Award in 2012, to The IMPACT
of 10. As a teenager, he became
Award and the Mail&Guardian 200
involved in petty crime and was
young South Africans mention
arrested. It was during his time in
in 2013. Travelling, meeting
jail that Ngobeni engaged with art
great artists and heroes through
through the Tsoga (Wake Up) Arts
my career. The journey that my
Project and decided to become an
creative practice has taken me
artist.
on came as a complete surprise.
Today, Ngobeni is known for his innovative style of painting as well as his drive and ability to tackle
It’s become a living dream, you know?” Another important moment
hefty subject matter through
in Ngobeni’s career came when a
his work, frequently calling into
significant collection of his works
question disparity, corruption,
was stolen from a gallery in the
and structures of power and
city that was selling his work.
domination throughout history.
Up until that point, he had been
54
SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
ARTS
working primarily in the realms
“It means everything to me. I
of realism, focusing on portraits
don’t have the words for it yet, but it
and cityscapes. After his work was
means to be proud and to be given
stolen, it was nearly a full year
an opportunity to represent my
before Ngobeni painted again.
Africanism, to represent Mzansi.
When he did, it was the beginnings
These are the opportunities to
of the style he’s so well-known for
share what we think about our
today.
country and our people.”
“That’s when I started moving
Considering his own journey
into a new style – especially the
to becoming an artist, Ngobeni
drips, which were almost symbolic
also runs two separate art prizes
of my own tears,” recalls Ngobeni.
for emerging artists – the Blessing
“The collaging was introduced to
Ngobeni Studio Art Prize Award and
my work shortly after and that’s
Initiative, a series of workshops
the kind of work that won me the
and a group show.
Reinhold Cassirer award.”
“Looking at my background
Since then, the artist has
and how I managed to break into
extended his painting practice
the industry, it was because I was
into sculpture, performance,
encouraged by those who don’t
installation, video, and
see education as a barrier,” says
sound, with the latter having seen him work with this year’s SBYA for Jazz, Sisonke Xonti. For Ngobeni, winning the SBYA Award for Art is the opportunity of a lifetime.
Ngobeni. “I won awards because of that and I decided I needed to offer the same kind of structures to other young artists like me. I was motivated by my own life rather than by being institutionalised, which is not to say that if you don’t have a certain degree or qualification, you won’t make it. I’m an example. I can make it into the system.” •
WWW.SILVERDIGEST.CO.ZA
55
5 LEISURE
OF THE
BEST
HOLIDAY READS
A selection of local fiction, memoirs and history for your vacation reading list.
TRAVEL LIGHT, MOVE FAST BY ALEXANDRA FULLER
BORDERLINE BY MARITA VAN DER VYVER
After her father’s sudden death, bestselling author Alexandra
A letter among her deceased ex-husband’s
Fuller realises that if she is going
belongings rips open Theresa’s world. For years she
to weather his loss, she will need
has turned her back on Theo – a man who spent the
to become the parts of him she
last two decades of his life institutionalised – and on
misses most. So begins Travel
their shared past in a country where teenage boys
Light, Move Fast, the unforgettable
were conscripted to fight on ‘the Border’ in a war
story of Tim Fuller, a self-exiled
that those back home knew little about. Least of all
black sheep who moved to
Theresa, who spent her days dreaming of discos and
Africa to fight in the Rhodesian
first kisses.
War before settling as a banana farmer in Zambia. A man who preferred chaos to predictability,
Realising that the letter was written by a Cuban
1
soldier and addressed to his child – who, if still alive, would be at least forty years old – Theresa heads for
to revel in promise rather than
Cuba: to search for the soldier’s child, to deliver the
wallow in regret, and who
letter, to atone in some way for Theo’s deeds and for
was more afraid of becoming bored than of getting
her own ignorance.
lost – he taught his daughters to live as if everything
In sultry Cuba,
needed to happen altogether, all at once or not at all.
amid its picturesque
Now, in the wake of his death, Fuller internalises
1950s cars and the
his lessons with clear eyes, and celebrates a man who
fragrant smoke of
swallowed life whole. A master of time and memory,
its cigars, Theresa’s
Fuller moves seamlessly between the days and
search connects her
months following her father’s death as she and her
intimately with those
mother return to his farm with his ashes and contend
branded ‘the enemy’
with his overwhelming absence… and she remembers
during the war in
her childhood spent running after him in southern
Angola as she begins
and central Africa. Writing of the rollicking grand
to unravel what
misadventures of her mother and father, bursting
growing up in the
with pandemonium and tragedy, Fuller takes their
South Africa of that
insatiable appetite for life to heart. Here, in Fuller’s
time really meant.
Africa, is a story of joy, resilience and vitality, from one of our finest writers. 56
SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
2
BOOKS
3 BASSIE – MY JOURNEY OF HOPE BY BASETSANA KUMALO
In Bassie –
she pays it forward through
My Journey of Hope,
mentoring young people she
Bassie recounts her
has met along the way.
Basetsana Kumalo shot to fame as
life journey, including
Miss South Africa in 1994 and soon
her relationships with
legal battles she has had to
Bassie also describes the
became the face of South Africa’s new
mentors like Nelson
wage in order to protect her
democracy. As the first black presenter
Mandela. She also
name and her brand over the
of the glamorous lifestyle TV show
shares the secrets
years. She gives a chilling
Top Billing, she travelled the world and
of her success and
account of the stalker
interviewed legends like Oprah Winfrey,
all the lessons she’s
who has harassed her for
Michael Jackson and Luther Vandross.
learnt along the way.
decades, and the spurious
After a successful career in front of the
She opens up about
‘sex-tape’ allegation that
camera, Bassie’s drive and ambition
the pressures of her
rocked her family and
took her into the world of business and
high-profile marriage to Romeo Kumalo
almost destroyed her career. Bassie’s
entrepreneurship. The street savvy that
and their heart-breaking struggle to
enthusiasm, humour and hope infuses
her entrepreneurial mother bestowed on
have a family. She talks honestly about
every page of her memoir, making it an
her as a child stood her in good stead as
motherhood and maintaining a healthy
intimate, inspiring and entertaining
she built a media empire.
work/life balance, and unpacks how
account of a remarkable life.
4 A SIN OF OMISSION BY MARGUERITE POLAND
THE NIGHT TRAINS BY CHARLES VAN ONSELEN The price exacted from across the African sub-continent for
“It is hard to be in exile...
South Africa’s stalled 20th-century industrial revolution is, in
But it is harder to return.”
human terms, still largely hidden from history. In this new book,
Through the hills and
eminent historian Charles Van Onselen explores how the people
dales of the Eastern
of southern Mozambique – bent double beneath the historical
Cape, Stephen (Malusi)
loads of forced labour and slavery, and then sold-off en masse
Mzamane, a young Anglican
as contracted labourers to the new coal and gold mines of the
priest, must journey to
Witwatersrand by a Portuguese administration – paid the highest
his mother’s rural home
price for the development of South Africa’s primary industry.
to inform her of his elder
The privately-operated, nightly labour trains running between
brother’s death. First educated at the Native College
Booysens and Ressano Garcia left deep
in Grahamstown, Stephen was sent to England
scars in the urban and rural cultures of
in 1869 for training at the Missionary College in
black communities, whether in the form
Canterbury.
of popular songs, such as Stimela and
But on his return to South Africa, relegated to a
5
Shosholoza, or in a belief in nocturnal
remote, dilapidated mission near Fort Beaufort, he
witches’ trains that captured and
had to confront not only the prejudices of a colonial
conveyed zombie workers to the region’s
society but the insidious discrimination within
most unpopular places of employment.
the Church itself. Increasingly conflicted between
Mozambican migrant labour formed
his loyalties to the amaNgqika people, for whom
an integral part of a largely hidden,
his brother fought, and the colonial cause he as
parallel universe that created the
Reverend Mzamane is expected to uphold, Stephen’s
wealth of 20th-century South Africa, and
journey to his mother’s home proves decisive in
some of the deepest roots of an ongoing
resolving the contradictions that tear at his heart.
tragedy lie, to this very day, besides the
This novel is based on a real historical character.
rails of the Eastern Main Line. • WWW.SILVERDIGEST.CO.ZA
57
LEISURE
LIFESTYLE
ADVANTAGES OF RETIRING IN A LIFESTYLE ESTATE According to Statistics South Africa, the number of South
units in the newer villages feature solar panels, solar geysers,
Africans over 60 years old will rise from 4.3 million today to
LED lighting, rainwater harvesting and even double glazing,
7 million by 2030. As people are living longer, their needs are changing and, with that, the way they live their post-employment years. While some will stay in their family homes, a growing number of retirees have their sights set on a unit in a
6
Superior lifestyle You can be active in a safe environment. In Evergreen
Noordhoek, for instance, tennis courts and a bowling green
retirement estate or village, says Garry Read,
are in the pipeline, while the Val de Vie village has ample
managing director at Evergreen Lifestyle Villages.
mountain trails, with fishing spots along a 7km stretch of the
Here are 10 key advantages to living your golden years in such developments – particularly
1
reducing monthly levies considerably.
Berg River. Lifestyle centres also features dining rooms, bars, bistros and libraries.
in a life rights village. The convenience factor The life rights ownership structure allows you to live
in a unit and use the village’s facilities for the rest of your
7
Sense of community Retirement villages offer a sense of community.
Residents come together through book clubs, bridge
life in exchange for a capital investment to the complex’s
evenings, excursions, wine tastings, dance lessons, film
owner, who is responsible for maintaining your home and all
nights, social dinners and other communal activities.
amenities, providing all the benefits of home-ownership with none of the hassles.
2
Independent living Today’s pensioners are young at heart and seek set-ups
8
Space for nature Many retirement villages have beautiful surroundings.
Evergreen Muizenberg is enveloped by an indigenous garden with benches and walking areas, allowing residents to
that offer the same facilities as conventional residential
recharge in nature. Evergreen Lake Michelle in the Noordhoek
gated estates, so they can live independently as long as they
Valley has a wetland area at its heart, teeming with indigenous
want, but with healthcare assistance nearby when needed.
plants, wildlife and 120 bird species. The village planned for Hilton will have a neighbouring giraffe reserve.
3
Access to healthcare Most of Evergreen’s retirement villages, including the
one that is being built in Sitari in Somerset West, offer on-site emergency, primary and personalised home-based
9
Working from home Just because you don’t have to work anymore, doesn’t
mean you have to stop. The 2019 Old Mutual Savings Monitor
healthcare services, as well as 24-hour nursing, frail and
suggests that 36% of retirees started a business after
dementia care.
turning 65, while 13% continued to be self-employed. Today’s retirement villages have a strong technology backbone,
4
Safety and security
including high-speed internet, making it easy for residents to
Most security retirement villages have electric fences,
work from home.
perimeter walls and CCTV cameras that are monitored 24/7. At Evergreen’s villages, this is enforced with strict access control and around-the-clock patrols.
5 58
10
Flexibility Retirement villages put residents in a position to
downsize from a standalone home to an apartment in the
Easy on the wallet
same village when the situation warrants it, or even to a
Not only are you relieved of maintenance costs, but
smaller unit.
SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
LEISURE
T H E AT R E
HOLIDAY SHOWS TO TAKE THE GRANDKIDS TO PETER PAN ON ICE The world’s premier theatrical ice skating company, The Imperial Ice Stars, returns to South Africa with a brand-new show, Peter Pan on Ice, this December. Take a journey to Neverland in this classic tale of magic and make-believe, spectacularly staged on real ice. Showcasing 23 former World,
JACK AND THE BEANSTALK
European and National Championship-
Acclaimed writer, director
level skaters, the highly accomplished
and South Africa’s queen of
cast will astound and mesmerise
pantomime Janice Honeyman
audiences with their adrenaline-rich,
will once again tell the
dramatic performance. Collectively,
story of poor country boy
the entire cast holds more than 250
Jack, the family cow, the
competition medals and will bring their
magic beans, the enormous
athletic and artistic talents to retell J M
beanstalk, the unfriendly giant
returning to the Joburg Theatre
Barrie’s well-loved story of Peter Pan.
and the enchanted hen that lays
following her triumphant success
the golden eggs. Adding the giant’s
in the role of Shug Avery in The
grows up – as he and Tinker Bell whisk
henchman – a truly evil panto
Color Purple is Lelo Ramasimong
Wendy and her brothers from their
villain – and the essential good
as the good fairy. Lelo became
London home off on a magical journey
fairy, Honeyman’s Jack and The
a household name in SA when
to Neverland. Watch as they enjoy
Beanstalk will have audiences in
she made it to the Top 10 on
thrilling adventures with the Lost
awe at the show’s sheer spectacle
Idols and her theatre career has
Boys, Tiger Lily and the Mermaids,
and Jack the Joller’s madcap
also included featured roles in
encountering the evil Captain
efforts to be its courageous hero.
Dreamgirls, African Footprint and
Join Peter – the boy who never
Hook, his pirates and a very
Not seen on The Mandela
hungry crocodile!
stage at Joburg Theatre
Set to an original score, the show
since 2012, this everpopular pantomime
Burn the Floor. The role of Jack the Joller also brings actor Zolani Shangase back to the Joburg Theatre.
features exquisite,
story traditionally
Zolani enjoyed popularity in his
innovative
sets good against evil
recurring role on DSTV’s Moja
choreography as
and is jam-packed
Love in the telenovela Hope. His
well as powerful
full of Honeyman’s
stage credits include a year in the
storytelling created by Artistic Director Tony Mercer, widely regarded as the world’s leading creator of theatre-on-ice. On at the Teatro At Montecasino from 06 December 2019 to 11 January 2020.
wit, double-entendres, charm and magic. Making his pantomime debut as the villain is actor, comedian, writer, radio and TV host, director and painter Casper de Vries, and
West End of London with The Lion King and – in South Africa – Janice Honeyman’s Aladdin, The Rocky Horror Show, Show Boat, Orpheus in Africa and The Color Purple. On at the Joburg Theatre from 2 November to 22 December 2019. WWW.SILVERDIGEST.CO.ZA
59
LEISURE
A large, twiggy branch found on a forest walk has been appropriated as an eco-friendly, sculptural Christmas tree. Strung with twinkling rice lights and hand-carved bird figurines used as ornaments, the tree has an enigmatic fairy-tale quality to it. • Place a similar branch into a wooden basket and secure it in place using kindling or firewood to emphasise the natural woodland theme. • Arrange carved figurines in keeping with a theme – in this instance birds – on the various branches using simple butcher’s twine. • An abundance of battery-operated rice or fairy lights is always a
60
SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
good idea to emphasise the spirit of Christmas cheer and serve as whimsical ambient lighting at night. • Other decorative elements include simple pillar candles in a variety of widths and sizes, tea light candles in clear glass votives and gifts wrapped simply using white butcher’s paper, string and velvet ribbon in shades of vanilla and cocoa. • A tray is a classic way to display a moody decorative vignette, here containing a selection of gifts found in nature: various bird nests, twigs, a collection of beautiful egg shells and, for atmosphere, tea light candles.
DECOR
SIMPLY CHRISTMAS TEXT MANDY ALLEN/BUREAUX STYLING SHELLEY STREET/ BUREAUX PHOTOGRAPHS WARREN HEATH/BUREAUX
Return to the simple things this festive season: a table decorated to evoke a sense of comfort and nostalgia, a humble colour palette and homespun decorations that weave in the wild spirit of nature.
“
many passions, including styling, sourcing, antiques hunting, baking and sewing. “Alice embroiders these lovely, intricately detailed birds on linen that I bought from The Cloth Shop in London.” As it turns out, Stephanie has
I find that big holidays and
that spanned being clothing
a special affinity for our fine-
events make me a little
designer, fashion editor and stylist,
feathered friends and has made
anxious. So I like to break
as well as head fashion buyer and
birds the central theme of her
them up a bit over a couple of days
marketing manager for a leading
Christmas decor in the form
and leave space for serendipity…”
local retailer.
of embroidered napkins and
This is Cape Town-based Stephanie
The interiors in Stephanie’s
decorative cushions, hand-carved
Wolhuter Inggs’ serene and
beautiful heritage home is
wooden figurines and ornaments, as
sensible philosophy to surviving
reflective of her fashion choices,
well as printed place and gift cards.
the silly season. No pressure, no
which she describes as “plain and
These have been set alongside
expectations, no disappointment.
understated but with unexpected
simply wrapped gifts, found bird
“For instance, take Christmas. It
cuts or proportions”. It is filled
nests, a vintage tablecloth and
can be a Christmas Eve dinner with
to bursting with stylish ideas,
beautiful vintage glassware filled
a few friends and family, a large
personalised elements and reams
with gold-tinged Sauternes, a sweet
Christmas day brunch with family
of character. “My daughter, Alice,
French wine that is the perfect
or just a simple Boxing day lunch
describes my house perfectly as
accompaniment to Stephanie’s
with one or two friends… There’s no
being full of lots of nice stuff that’s
signature spiced pear-and-apricot
pressure for one day or one meal to
being rearranged all the time,” she
cake. The colour palette has
be extra special. If the cake flops, I
says with a laugh. There’s also the
been kept warm and neutral –
can always serve it the next day for
presence of Stephanie’s menagerie
inspired by old-school tradition,
breakfast with lots of yoghurt!”
of “very important animals”.
winter woodlands and a rustic
Animals, more specifically birds,
farmhouse aesthetic. As is her way,
temperament (friends and
are playing a leading role in
Stephanie has effortlessly woven
former colleagues will all attest
Stephanie’s next creative phase;
together a fusion of homespun and
to Stephanie’s composed nature)
one that also involves writer/editor
sophisticated, timeless yet fresh.
and part of the legacy of her
daughter Alice. Bird-Dog-Bokkie
You might just say it’s a Christmas
professional past – one that
is her self-described “side hustle”:
celebration that’s practically (im)
required a balance of creativity
a creative project that’s “mainly
perfect in every way.
and pragmatism during a career
just for fun”, encompassing her
It’s an approach that is part
stephanie@birddogbokkie.com •
WWW.SILVERDIGEST.CO.ZA
61
LEISURE
Cosy and atmospheric, this inviting area of the living room illustrates that a largely monochromatic interior can be warm, engaging and characterful thanks to the inclusion of vintage, organic and rustic elements. • Floating shelves are a styling dream – here a nod is given to Christmas with the subtle inclusion of a white-painted twig wreath among the framed images. • One of Stephanie and Alice’s embroidered cushions takes pride of place on an armchair. Next to the chair on the rustic side table is an embroidery work in progress.
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SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
DECOR
Right: For some a wreath it is purely decorative, for others it is infused with rich meaning and symbolism. Either way, the wreath is synonymous with Christmas and is an essential element in seasonal decorating. • This wreath was made by hand using found twigs and fynbos (wild heath). • Craft your own rustic wreath from bendy twigs such as willow or weeping/ silver birch using secateurs to cut lengths, scissors for trimming and natural twine for binding into shape. • The figurines are in keeping with the decorative theme that references birds and nature. If you are introducing a theme to your Christmas decorating, create the element of surprise by placing objects and items that reference your chosen motif throughout your home, on the dinner table and even in unexpected places like the bathroom, porch or garden.
Left and top: Stephanie Wolhuter Inggs preparing her Christmas table. • Take a note from Stephanie and approach decorating your table with an editor’s eye: think about layering, texture and your colour palette. • The vintage tablecloth, though pretty, is in keeping with the timeless aesthetic and wholesome, muted colours. • Layering crockery is a tried-andtested stylist’s trick and results in a visually interesting table setting. • There is an appealing aesthetic tension between the matt finish of the handmade crockery and the polished
silver flatware. • Christmas, even when it’s pared-down, demands a touch of sparkle. Tea light candles, votives, fairy lights and the glint coming off of vintage drinking glasses take over from traditional baubles and tinsel. • Treat each guest to a small take-home gift. Mark them with each person’s name to serve as place holders. • The table is anchored by a loosely composed centrepiece consisting of wild bird eggshells, nests and a tangle of foraged twigs and branches. • Hand-embroidered linen napkins with bird motifs convey the folksy aesthetic.
WWW.SILVERDIGEST.CO.ZA
63
LEISURE
RECIPE
Spiced pearand-apricot cake FRUIT FILLING • 6 pears with pips removed (use a melon ball scoop) • 12 dried apricots softened in boiling water
CAKE BASE • 4 large eggs • 1 cup plain yoghurt
TIP
We used Beur ré Bosc (also known as Kaiser) pears, which are particularly suited to baking.
• 160ml vegetable oil • 80g melted butter •
/3 cup milk
1
• 2 ½ cups self-raising flour • 1 cup Muscovado sugar • ½ teaspoon salt
SPICY GINGER TOPPING • 3 large eggs • 100g melted butter • ¾ cup Muscovado sugar • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg • 3 tablespoons chopped glacé ginger METHOD: • Set the oven at 170° C • Lightly butter a 26cm springform tin and line the bottom and then sides with
FOR THE CAKE BASE:
a high collar of baking paper.
• Whisk the eggs in a bowl and then
• Pour the cake base into the baking
add the yoghurt, vegetable oil,
tin and arrange the pears to sit
melted butter and milk.
upright in a circle.
• Wash and dry but don’t peel the pears. Remove the pips with a melon ball scoop. • Slice the bottom of each pear so that it will sit flat and not fall over. • Stuff the hollow of each pear with two soft apricots.
• In another bowl, sieve together the flour, sugar and salt. • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until combined. • Whisk together all the ingredients
for the spicy ginger topping.
• Pour on the topping beginning at the outer edges of the cake and working towards the middle. • Bake at 170° C for approximately 1 ¼ hours or until a skewer comes out clean. www.bureaux.co.za
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SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
LEISURE
THE LATEST NEW RESTAURANTS
IN JOBURG AND CT A GOLDEN NUGGET IN STORE FOR JOZI’S FOODIES
gastronomic tour around Europe
Joburg’s food scene is heating up
Russia to Poland, Spain to Finland
as another culinary masterpiece
and beyond. The menu has been
joins its ranks.
inspired from their travels and is
AURUM Restaurant, meaning
where they explored cuisines from
both a reflection of the type of
‘gold’ in Latin, is due to open
food they like to eat, as well
its doors in late 2019 and will
as a portrait of sustainable
overlook Sandton from the 7th floor
modern-day dining.
of South Africa and Africa’s tallest new building, The Leonardo. The restaurant is the brainchild
“A meal at AURUM will aim to engage our patrons on an emotional level. We
of esteemed chef and culinary
want to create experiences,
consultant, Paulo Santo, in
share memories, build
collaboration with the Legacy
strong relationships and gain
Group and its chairman Bart
the trust of our patrons through
Dorrestein.
our product and service offering.
True to its name, AURUM will
AURUM stands to take an old-
deliver understated prestige with
world approach to service with a
an excellent return on investment.
modern, new-world approach to
“AURUM represents luxury, but not in an intimidating, pretentious or ostentatious manner. Just as gold is timeless in its appeal, we too wish to exist beyond time as a successful, renowned business serving a cosmopolitan African city: the City of Gold,” says Santo, MD and Senior Partner of AURUM. AURUM’s kitchen will be headed up by Santo’s former chef colleagues at Cube Tasting Kitchen – Darren O’Donovan as Head Chef and Lisa de Beer as Sous Chef and Sommelier. Darren and Lisa join AURUM off the back of a four-month long 66
SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
cuisine,” says Paulo. www.aurumrestaurant.co.za
DINING
LAIDBACK LUXE BEACH DINER SURFSHACK OPENS IN CAMPS BAY Surfshack is the latest hotspot to open on the ever busy and ultraglamorous Camps Bay beachfront. This latest addition by The Kove Collection, Surfshack – sibling restaurant to la Belle Bistro & Patisserie and Chinchilla – is an easy-going and contemporary eatery overlooking the ocean. Situated above Paranga and adjacent to la Belle, Surfshack
and exciting option.
menu for diners
oozes a sense of laidback cool
The menu is brimming with
wanting something
and adds a little extra flavour
tasty global fare – from jalapeño-
to the Camps Bay golden mile.
dressed Salt and Pepper Squid
Panoramic ocean vistas set the
and spicy Seared Ahi Tuna on the
who are looking forward to a
scene for dining, drinks and
extensive Shareables menu, to a
beach break and a suitably sexy
socialising with a view, while the
plethora of classic salads – all with
seaside spot to hang out and
stunning sunset views ensure
a Surfshack twist, while the unique
soak up the summertime buzz
guests will certainly be lingering
Buns menu couldn’t be more
in. And for locals looking for
longer over cocktails. The
suited to a beach environment.
something new that reflects Cape
combination of luxe diner classics,
The likes of grilled prawns with
Town’s cosmopolitanism at its
a vibey buzz and rustic yet stylish
avocado and aioli on the Poor
best, Surfshack certainly has
decor makes Surfshack a certain
Man’s Lobster Roll and the
everything going for it – a great
summer place to be. What’s more,
umami-laced Pastrami on the
view, good vibes and a menu filled
an expansive terrace at the foot of
already-popular Pretzel Roll take
with fresh and new easy eating
the eatery gives those on the hunt
centre stage. There’s also a grilled
options to try.
for a trendy sundowner spot a new
meat and seafood section to the
www.surfshackdiner.co.za •
more substantial. It’s an ideal option for visitors
WWW.SILVERDIGEST.CO.ZA
67
in White River, Mpumalanga
Selling from
R1 495 000
Chantelle | 064 544 1982 Adriana | 064 517 2877
in Langebaan, West Coast
Selling from R1 820 000 Christiaan | 064 544 7524 Walter | 064 544 2965
in Plettenberg Bay, Garden Route
Selling from
R1 495 000
Rob | 083 287 0018 www.devmark.co.za 28 Years of Property Development Success
LEISURE
M O TO R I N G
BMW VS MERCEDES-BENZ VS AUDI: WHICH MARQUE HAS THE BEST RESALE VALUE?
S
outh Africans have long had
brands – namely BMW, Mercedes-
surprise you – can help a motorist
love affairs with German
Benz and Audi – all produce
select his or her next German
cars; they are perceived to
premium cars, with an upmarket
luxury vehicle.
be aspirational, luxury vehicles
image, magnificent engines,
boasting superlative build quality.
superbly crafted interiors and
managing director of True Price,
The three most popular German
good safety features.
Mercedes-Benz rules the resale
Which is all very well. But
According to Darryl Jacobson,
roost, BMW vehicles have the
which brand has the best and
worst resale value, while Audi slots
worst resale value? The answer
in neatly between the two other
to this question – which may well
Germans. Continued …
Audi resale value*
62.49%
WWW.SILVERDIGEST.CO.ZA
69
LEISURE
Mercedes-benz resale value*
70.10% His findings are based on
compared our entire Mercedes-
Audi clocked in second, at
an analysis of True Price data.
Benz database to our entire BMW
62.49% of the original list price.
In order to provide motorists
database and our entire Audi
“We see a lot of bidding on Audi
with realistic (and free) vehicle
database,” he explains.
models on auctions,” Jacobson
evaluations, the True Price
At a percentage of the original
reveals. “It’s the vehicle of choice
team attends hundreds of bank
list price of 70.10%, Mercedes-
for many younger professionals.
repossession auctions each year.
Benz is truly head and shoulders
It’s also popular with families,
They document each and every
above the competition. Jacobson
who maintain that the vehicles are
price paid on auction, so the
says he was not surprised to see
spacious and comfortable while
True Price database contains the
the three-pointed star fare so
offering good aftersales support
actual prices paid on thousands of
well. “Everyone – both young
from the dealer network. An Audi
individual vehicle auctions.
and old – loves a Mercedes-
is perceived to be a ‘safe bet’ on
Benz. Mercedes-Benz vehicles
auction. Dealers also know that
data. “Then we calculated the
have long held their value, and I
they should be able to move the
actual price achieved on auction
strongly believe they always will.
vehicle fairly easily – although, it
as a percentage of the original list
It has been interesting to see
must be said, not quite as easily as
price. Mercedes-Benz is the clear
younger buyers avidly bidding on
a Mercedes-Benz.”
winner when it comes to resale
Mercedes-Benz vehicles in the
Coming third with 58.65% –
values,” he explains.
last 10 years; the company has
and therefore having the worst
Jacobson has analysed this
The total vehicle parc was
done an astoundingly good job of
resale value among the German
used in this exercise. “We didn’t
making its product range relevant
trio – is BMW. “This will no doubt
limit our analysis to certain
and enticing to a large audience,”
surprise many die-hard BMW
models or certain body types. We
he notes.
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SILVER DIGEST // SUMMER 2019
M O TO R I N G
fans. But it does make a certain
vehicle. “The majority of vehicles
consider also the fact that the
amount of sense. Although the
are depreciating assets. The
vehicle could be stolen or written
BMW vehicles are still popular
exception to this rule is a classic
off. Your insurers will pay you a
on auction, they seem to have
or collector’s car. The longer you
market-related value… and resale
lost their lustre when it comes
own a vehicle, the less it will be
value plays an important role
to exclusivity, desirability and
worth. In fact, depreciation is the
here!” Jacobson notes.
the bragging rights that go with
single biggest cost factor when it
owning one of these vehicles. In
comes to vehicle ownership. It is
True Price study, Jacobson says
fairness, the 3 Series is still very
far more significant than the cost
that going the Mercedes-Benz
sought after. The 5 Series is not
of servicing and maintenance,
route is a safe bet. “Based on our
quite as desirable, and the 7 Series
for instance. Yet some car buyers
analysis, if you’re shopping for a
has always been challenging when
forget about this important
German car, it would be prudent to
it comes to resale values. Plus,
aspect of vehicle ownership when
buy the one with the three-pointed
buyers feel that the X derivatives
making their choice,” Jacobson
star. You will minimise your risk
(the X3 and X5 especially) are too
points out.
of the vehicle depreciating too
expensive,” Jacobson explains. According to Jacobson, resale
The consequences of ignoring
Based on the findings of the
much,” he concludes.
vehicle resale values can be dire.
value should be one of the
“You will get a much lower trade-in
*The data pertains to vehicles that have done a
single most important factors to
price when the time comes to sell.
maximum of 150 000 km. They were registered in
consider before purchasing any
That much is obvious. However,
2016 to 2019 (both years inclusive).
BMW resale value*
58.65%
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