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December 2009 |
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2009 has been a tough year. Households are still reeling from high debts and the official unemployment rate
rose to 24.5% as 770 000 South Africans lost their jobs over the last year. However, the year has ended on
a positive note with statistical evidence that the South African economy is finally out of recession, growing
by 0.9% in the third quarter of this year.
Globally, it seems that economic recovery is underway. Stanlib economists will be watching US consumers carefully because a sustained global economic recovery will only be possible once US consumers are officially out of the woods. Read more about the economic recovery both locally and abroad in our global and local economic reviews. |
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"Birds sing after a storm; why shouldn't people feel as free to delight in whatever remains to them?" Rose F. Kennedy It is often during difficult times that we realise what is really important to us, like spending time with family and friends. Celebrate the end of a difficult year by taking some time off, being with your family and counting your blessings. Now more than ever is the time to be generous; even if we have no money in the bank, we can still give of ourselves. In the article Enjoying the festive season without the financial hangover, we look at ways to balance our spending, saving and giving so that we can celebrate without breaking the bank. We have also put together a list of innovative gift ideas that represent the spirit of the festive season in the article Budget-beating gifts. For those of us who will be going on holiday, the article A stress-free holiday provides a check list to ensure that you have things covered for a worry free break. |
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Thank you for the feedback we have received on these newsletters so far. Your comments and suggestions will help us to give you relevant information for planning and managing your finances. Please keep talking to us and telling us what you think! If you don't have a financial adviser or if you have any questions about your policy, please call us on 0860 456 789 or email [email protected] |
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On a final note, I would like to thank you for being a valued Liberty customer. I wish you the most wonderful festive season and hope that you start 2010 rested, restored and ready to embrace what promises to be an historic year for all South Africans. Kind regards Steven Braudo Chief Executive Officer: Liberty Insurance |
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Global economic review
STANLIB economists Kevin Lings and Melissa Dyer look at the ten steps that are necessary for a sustained economic recovery. Read more. Weekly economic updates
The Weekly Focus is a commentary on markets, economies and investments prepared by Paul Hansen, Kevin Lings and Melissa Dyer of STANLIB. You can read the latest developments every Tuesday by following the link on www.stanlib.com |
Local economic review
Liberty Life economist, Tendani Mantshimuli looks at South Africa's move out of recession and what this means for consumers. Read more. |
Celebrating the Festive Season
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