(77,215,'Registrations','registrations-department','<h5>Mandate of the Registrations Department</h5>\r\n<p>The Registrations Department is mandated to register credit providers, credit bureaus, debt counsellors, payment distribution agents, alternative dispute resolution agents and reseller credit bureaus. In addition, the department is responsible for renewing registrations, updating the register of registrants and printing registration certificates and window decals.</p>\r\n<p><strong>Alternative Dispute Resolution Agent</strong></p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=\"index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=51&amp;catid=24\">Application forms</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=\"index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=40&amp;catid=24\">How do I register?</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=\"index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=98&amp;catid=24\">Voluntary cancellation of registration</a></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p><strong>Credit Bureau</strong></p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=\"index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=54&amp;catid=28\">Application forms</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=\"index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=44&amp;catid=28\">How do I register?</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=\"index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=94&amp;catid=28\">Voluntary cancellation of registration</a></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p><strong>Credit Provider </strong></p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=\"index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=49&amp;catid=27\">Application forms</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=\"index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=43&amp;catid=27\">How do I register?</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=\"index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=96&amp;catid=27\">Voluntary cancellation of registration</a></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p><strong>Debt Counsellor</strong></p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=\"index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=50&amp;catid=26\">Application forms</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=\"index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=42&amp;catid=26\">How do I register?</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=\"index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=99&amp;catid=26\">Voluntary cancellation of registration</a></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p><strong>Payment Distribution Agent</strong></p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=\"index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=53&amp;catid=25\">Application forms</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=\"index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=41&amp;catid=25\">How do I register?</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=\"index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=97&amp;catid=25\">Voluntary cancellation of registration</a></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p><strong>Reseller Credit Bureau</strong></p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=\"index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=52&amp;catid=29\">Application forms</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=\"index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=45&amp;catid=29\">How do I register?</a></li>\r\n<li><a href=\"index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=101&amp;catid=29\">Voluntary cancellation of registration</a></li>\r\n</ul>','',1,13,'2020-07-14 10:16:49',915,'','2020-10-15 14:24:21',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-07-14 10:16:49','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',19,0,'','',1,58325,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(78,216,'Education and Communication ','education-and-communication','<h5>Mandate of the Education and Communication Department</h5>\r\n<p>Education and the provision of information play a very important role in raising awareness around the provisions of the National Credit Act and consumer rights. The National Credit Regulator (NCR) deploys a variety of different strategies to communicate to several different target audiences and a broader consumer base. Strategies include communication via the print media, broadcast media (radio, television), electronic media, outdoor media such as billboards, outside broadcasts, workshops, exhibitions, mall activations, the NCR’s website and targeted awareness campaigns to mention a few.</p>\r\n<h5>Services offered</h5>\r\n<p>The Education &amp; Communication Department conducts both interactive and non-interactive activities. Interactive activities comprise of workshops, exhibitions, roadshows, outside broadcasts etc. whereas non-interactive comprise of media interviews. These are conducted with an aim of educating consumers on matters relating to the National Credit Act. The NCR’s services for education purposes are free of charge for all consumers around the country.</p>\r\n<p>If you would like the NCR to conduct any educational activity for your community or organisation, contact us for additional information on Call centre – 0860 627 627 or use the below contact details.</p>\r\n<h5>Requests for Educational Activities and Media Relations</h5>\r\n<p>Jimmy Golele: Senior Education &amp; Communication Officer – <a href=\"mailto:jgolele@ncr.org.za\">jgolele@ncr.org.za</a><br /> Workshops – <a href=\"mailto:workshops@ncr.org.za\">workshops@ncr.org.za</a><br /> Media – <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a><br /> Winnie Rabathata - <a href=\"mailto:wrabathata@ncr.org.za\">wrabathata@ncr.org.za</a></p>\r\n<h5>What is over-indebtedness?</h5>\r\n<p>A consumer is considered to be over-indebted if money available after payment of essential expenses is not enough to pay all other debts.</p>\r\n<h5>What are some of the indicators of over-indebtedness?</h5>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>borrows money to pay other loans;</li>\r\n<li>skips payments on some accounts in order to pay others;</li>\r\n<li>receives letters of demand and/or summonses from creditors;</li>\r\n<li>is thinking of being placed under debt administration or debt counselling;</li>\r\n<li>has judgments passed against him/her;</li>\r\n<li>is always absent from work, especially towards month end;</li>\r\n<li>regularly feels emotionally stressed about money matters; and</li>\r\n<li>is regularly losing money to rip-offs and frauds.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h5>What are the causes of over-indebtedness?</h5>\r\n<p>There are different reasons why people end up being over-indebted. Below is a list of some of the most common reasons:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Indulgence – living in the first class lounge whilst you clearly cannot afford that lifestyle;</li>\r\n<li>Ignorance of financial products – An example would be having too many funeral policies that you clearly cannot afford. You need to see a financial advisor for assistance of choosing an insurance cover that is sufficient and affordable for you and your family.</li>\r\n<li>Lack of proper planning</li>\r\n<li>Social pressures – peer, family</li>\r\n<li>Change in circumstances – divorce, retrenchment, death, etc.</li>\r\n<li>Reckless lending</li>\r\n<li>Economic upswing – increasing interest rates</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h5>OVERCOMING OVER INDEBTEDNESS &amp; PERSONAL FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT</h5>\r\n<h5><em>TIP # 1 Don’t ignore your debts</em></h5>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Know how much is coming in, and how much is going out;</li>\r\n<li>List all the people you owe, including friends, family, neighbours etc;</li>\r\n<li>Get a copy of your credit bureau record – free of charge;</li>\r\n<li>Keep in touch with your bank statement – track all the deductions;</li>\r\n<li>Get in touch with your creditors and explain your situation. Reduced payment is better than no payment;</li>\r\n<li>Don’t be threatened or bullied into promising to pay what you don’t have; and</li>\r\n<li>Review your budget regularly.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h5><em>TIP # 2 Prioritise your debts</em></h5>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Pay your essential expenses first – electricity, rent, insurance;</li>\r\n<li>Then pay your day-to-day expenses like transport and food;</li>\r\n<li>Pay off debts with the highest interest rate first, and the rest in descending order;</li>\r\n<li>Seek expert advice before selling / cancelling anything;</li>\r\n<li>Don’t cancel important insurance policies such as car, household etc.; rather shop around for cheaper premiums</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h5><em>TIP # 3 Don’t borrow to pay off debts</em></h5>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Credit creates more debt, don’t borrow more to pay existing debts;</li>\r\n<li>Don’t buy food on credit;</li>\r\n<li>If you get retrenched, use the retrenchment package to pay off debt;</li>\r\n<li>Be very cautious when considering to take a consolidation loan</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h5><em>TIP # 4 Cut down on your expenses</em></h5>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Cut down on luxury items – entertainment; TV subscriptions, holidays etc;</li>\r\n<li>Make a list of “wants” and “needs” and focus on needs;</li>\r\n<li>Surrender goods which you can no longer afford to pay, before they are repossessed;</li>\r\n<li>Consider early settlement so that you can save on interest and other cost; and</li>\r\n<li>Review your insurance policies from time to time – use an independent financial advisor.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h5><em>TIP # 5 Don’t wait until goods are repossessed</em></h5>\r\n<h5><em>TIP # 6 Start saving</em></h5>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Put aside some money for unforeseen circumstances;</li>\r\n<li>Be consistent, save every month – no matter how small the amount is.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h5><em>TIP #7 See a Debt Counsellor for assistance (<a href=\"index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=63&amp;catid=31\">click here for more information</a>)</em></h5>\r\n<h5>ABOUT CREDIT INFORMATION</h5>\r\n<p>Every person who has an account with a credit or service provider in the country or makes use of credit services will find their payment behaviour information recorded with a credit bureau irrespective of whether that person pays their account regularly or not. Credit bureaus hold both positive information, such as consumers paying their accounts on time, and negative information, for example when a consumer has fallen behind or defaulted on payments.</p>\r\n<p>The purpose of listing information collectively at the credit bureaus is to create a comprehensive view of the consumer for both prospective and existing credit and service providers, to assist them in evaluating new credit or account applications, and also to assist in the management of their relationships with their customers.</p>\r\n<h5>HOW TO ACCESS YOUR CREDIT REPORT</h5>\r\n<p>Consumers are entitled to one free credit report annually from each of the registered credit bureaus. Should a consumer require an additional copy of his or her credit report within the same year, there will be a fee that credit bureaus will charge.</p>\r\n<p>To get a copy of your credit report, contact any of the below credit bureaus. Remember, you are entitled to get one free credit report once a year.</p>\r\n<!--<table class=\"table table-bordered table-striped\" border=\"0\" cellpadding=\"10\">\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>CompuScan</td>\r\n<td>0861 514 131</td>\r\n<td><a href=\"www.compuscan.co.za\">www.compuscan.co.za</a></td>\r\n<td><a href=\"info@compuscan.co.za\">info@compuscan.co.za</a></td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>Experian</td>\r\n<td>0861 105 665</td>\r\n<td><a href=\"www.experian.co.za\">www.experian.co.za</a></td>\r\n<td><a href=\"mailto:consumer@creditexpert.co.za\">consumer@creditexpert.co.za </a></td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>TransUnion</td>\r\n<td>0861 886 466</td>\r\n<td><a href=\"www.transunion.co.za\">www.transunion.co.za</a></td>\r\n<td><a href=\"mailto:webadmin@transunion.co.za\">webadmin@transunion.co.za</a></td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>XDS</td>\r\n<td>0860 937 000</td>\r\n<td><a href=\"www.xds.co.za\">www.xds.co.za</a></td>\r\n<td><a href=\"mailto:info@xds.co.za\">info@xds.co.za</a></td>\r\n</tr>\r\n</tbody>\r\n</table>\r\n<p></p>-->\r\n<table class=\"table table-bordered table-striped\" border=\"0\" cellspacing=\"5\" cellpadding=\"5\">\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><strong>CompuScan </strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>0861514131</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.compuscan.co.za/\">www.compuscan.co.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><a href=\"mailto:info@compuscan.co.za\">info@compuscan.co.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><strong>Experian</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>0861105665 </p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.experian.co.za/\">www.experian.co.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><a href=\"mailto:consumer@creditexpert.co.za\">consumer@creditexpert.co.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><strong>TransUnion </strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>0861886466</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.transunion.co.za/\">www.transunion.co.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><a href=\"mailto:webadmin@transunion.co.za\">webadmin@transunion.co.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><strong>XDS</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>0860937000</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.xds.co.za/\">www.xds.co.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><a href=\"mailto:info@xds.co.za\">info@xds.co.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><strong>Consumer Profile Bureau </strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>0105909505</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.consumerprofilebureau.com\">www.consumerprofilebureau.com</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><a href=\"mailto:support@cpbonline.co.za\">support@cpbonline.co.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><strong>VeriCred Credit Bureau</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>0871503602</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.vccb.co.za\">www.vccb.co.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td> </td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><strong>Credit Ombud</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>0861 662837</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.creditombud.org.za\">www.creditombud.org.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><a href=\"mailto:ombud@creditombud.org.za\">ombud@creditombud.org.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n</tbody>\r\n</table>\r\n<p>In terms of the National Credit Act, consumers have a right to access and challenge information on their credit records if they believe that it is not accurate.</p>\r\n<p>When challenging the credit bureau record, the consumer needs to contact the credit bureau that issued the credit report. The credit bureau has 20 business days to investigate the matter.</p>\r\n<p>If the consumer is not satisfied with the outcome from the credit bureau investigation or they do not have an answer after waiting for 20 business days for the bureau to assist them, they should escalate the matter to the Credit Ombud’s office where they will receive assistance free of charge. However, consumers need to have a reference number from the credit bureau first.</p>\r\n<h5>HOW LONG DOES MY INFORMATION STAY AT THE CREDIT BUREAUS?</h5>\r\n<p>Below is a table on retention periods:</p>\r\n<table class=\"table table-bordered table-striped\" border=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"10\">\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>\r\n<p> </p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Category</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Description</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Time kept</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>1</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><strong>Details and results of complaints lodged by consumers</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>Number and nature of complaints lodged and whether complaint was rejected. No information may be displayed on complaints that were upheld</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>6 months</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>2</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><strong>Enquiries</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>Number of enquiries made on a consumer’s record, including the name of the entity / person who made the enquiry and a contact person if available</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>1 year</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>3</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><strong>Payment profile</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>Factual information pertaining to the payment profile of the consumer</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>5 years</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>4</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><strong>Adverse classifications of consumer behaviour</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>Subjective classifications of consumer behaviour </p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>1 year or within the period prescribed in section 71A.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>5</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><strong>Adverse classifications of enforcement action</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>Classification related to enforcement action taken by the credit provider</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>1 year or within the period prescribed in section 71A.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>6</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><strong>Debt restructuring </strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>As per section 86 of the Act,<br /> an order given by the Court<br /> or Tribunal</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>Within the period prescribed in section 71(1) of the Act or until a clearance certificate is issued</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>7</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><strong>Civil court Judgments</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>Civil court Judgments including default court judgment</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>The earlier of 5 years or<br /> until the judgment is<br /> rescinded by a court or<br /> abandoned by the credit<br /> provider in terms of section<br /> 86 of the Magistrates Courts<br /> Act 32 of 1944 or within the<br /> period prescribed in section<br /> 71A of the Act</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>8</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><strong>Maintenance judgments</strong><br /> <strong>in terms of the Maintenance</strong><br /> <strong>Act 99 of 1998</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>As per court judgment</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>until the judgment is<br /> rescinded by a court</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>8</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><strong>Administration Orders</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>As per the court order</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>5 years or until order is<br /> rescinded by court</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>9</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><strong>Sequestrations</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>As per the court order</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>5years or until rehabilitation<br /> order is granted</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>10</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><strong>Liquidations</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>As per the court order</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>Unlimited periods</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>11</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p><strong>Rehabilitation</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>As per the court order</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td>\r\n<p>5 years</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n</tbody>\r\n</table>\r\n<h5><br />THE RIGHT TO APPLY FOR CREDIT</h5>\r\n<p>Every person has the right to apply for credit from any credit provider. However, it does not prevent the credit provider from turning down your application. When your application is turned down you have the right to be provided with reasons.</p>\r\n<h5>THE RIGHT TO DISCLOSURE</h5>\r\n<p>A credit provider must provide you with a pre-agreement statement and quotation before you can sign the credit agreement. This must disclose the amount borrowed, deposit to be paid (if any), number of installments, interest payable, any additional charges, credit life insurance, date of first installment and the date of last payment. Always make sure that you get a pre-agreement statement and quotation before signing.</p>\r\n<h5>RIGHT TO INFORMATION IN OFFICIAL LANGUAGE</h5>\r\n<p>You have the right to receive any document that is required in terms of the NCA in an official language that you read or understand.</p>\r\n<h5>THE RIGHT TO BE GIVEN DOCUMENTS IN PLAIN AND UNDERSTANDABLE LANGUAGE</h5>\r\n<p>You have the right to receive information and documents in plain language. This means that the contents, meaning and importance of the document must be easy to understand. <strong> Ask if you do not understand. Do not sign unless you understand the terms and conditions of the agreement</strong>.</p>\r\n<h5>THE RIGHT TO CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT</h5>\r\n<p>You have a right to have information held about you treated confidentially. This means the credit provider may only use information for the purpose for which it was given.</p>\r\n<h5>THE RIGHT TO ACCESS AND CHALLENGE INFORMATION HELD BY A CREDIT BUREAU</h5>\r\n<p>You have the right:</p>\r\n<ol>\r\n<li>To be informed that the credit provider intends to report negative information about you to a credit bureau before the credit provider actually reports you.</li>\r\n<li>To receive a copy of your credit record from a credit bureaux when you request it. You can get one free record per year, but the credit bureaux may charge you a fee  of R20 excluding Vat for any further records;</li>\r\n<li>To challenge information kept by credit bureau if you are unhappy with the information;</li>\r\n<li>For your information to be kept confidential, and for your information to be used only for purposes allowed by the National Credit Act.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<h5>THE RIGHT TO GET ASSISSTANCE WHEN YOU ARE OVER-INDEBTED</h5>\r\n<p>If you experience problems with servicing your debts take the following steps:</p>\r\n<ol>\r\n<li>Contact your credit provider to discuss your situation and negotiate an affordable repayment plan;</li>\r\n<li>If you cannot reach an agreement with your credit provider, you may contact a debt counsellor in your area;</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<p>Note that when you are under debt counselling you will not be able to get further credit until you have settled all your debts.</p>\r\n<p><a href=\"index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=37&amp;catid=15\">Click here to view consumer Tips</a></p>\r\n<p><a href=\"index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=71&amp;catid=20\">Click here for Campaigns</a></p>\r\n<p><a href=\"index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=33&amp;catid=20\">Click here for Brochures</a></p>','',1,15,'2020-07-14 15:37:40',915,'','2021-01-27 12:43:29',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-07-14 15:37:40','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',39,0,'','',1,13650,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(79,217,'Be careful of “fake” credit provider scams during the covid-19 pandemic','be-careful-of-fake-credit-provider-scams-during-the-covid-19-pandemic','<p style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: right;\"><b><strong>April 2020</strong></b></p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The National Credit Regulator (NCR) is warning consumers to be careful of scammers who act as legitimate credit providers preying on vulnerable consumers during this period of COVID-19 pandemic. The impact of this pandemic has unfortunately left many consumers desperate for money and some having to resort to borrowing. On the other hand, criminals have seen the opportunity to exploit the desperate and vulnerable by posing as legitimate registered credit providers and offering loans with a condition of an “upfront payment”, says Nomsa Motshegare, CEO of the NCR.</p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">“The NCR has during this period, been receiving queries from consumers about unregistered companies posing as registered credit providers offering them loans via SMS and email”, says Motshegare. These scammers use the registration details of lawfully registered credit providers, inform consumers that the loan is approved and before the loan is paid out, they demand an “upfront payment” from the consumers. Once consumers pay this upfront payment, the scammers will disappear with no trace and no loan will be paid out to the consumer.</p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">According to the National Credit Act (NCA), an “upfront payment” for a loan is unlawful and not allowed, consumers are warned not to fall for this scam and never pay any upfront fee for a loan. Those who have fallen victim to this scam and have paid upfront fees should open criminal cases at their nearest South African Police Service (SAPS), advises Motshegare.</p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Everyone giving out credit, must be registered with the NCR and apply the rules in the NCA. All registered credit providers’ details are listed on the NCR’s website (<a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za/\">www.ncr.org.za</a>) and consumers are encouraged to check before doing business with anyone offering credit, concludes Motshegare.</p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Ends</strong></p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong></p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established in terms of the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (NCA) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: center;\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong> </p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: center;\">Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a> </p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: center;\">Or </p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: center;\">Ntombizodwa Mahlangu</p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: center;\">Cell: 064 752 3926</p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: center;\">E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:NMahlangu@ncr.org.za\">NMahlangu@ncr.org.za</a></p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: center;\">Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za/\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2020-07-16 09:49:48',915,'','2020-07-16 09:49:48',0,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-07-16 09:49:48','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',1,38,'','',1,6471,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(80,218,'Consumers advised to use their credit life insurance for relief','consumers-advised-to-use-their-credit-life-insurance-for-relief','<p style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: right;\"><b><strong>April 2020</strong></b></p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As South Africa is battling with the impact of COVID-19 on the economy, many consumers have been left with the inability to earn an income. Some are unemployed whilst others are receiving less income due to reduced working hours. Some credit providers have pronounced interim debt relief measures for consumers who have been hard hit by this pandemic. The National Credit Regulator (NCR) advises consumers that where applicable, they first consider the option of using their credit life insurance benefit as a relief in this difficult period, says Nomsa Motshegare, Chief Executive Officer of the NCR.</p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A credit life insurance is an insurance that a consumer signs up for when applying for credit or a loan and it covers the outstanding debt in the event of unforeseen circumstances such as death, retrenchment, unemployment, inability to earn an income, disability and others. Motshegare advises that, in the event of the consumer becoming unemployed or unable to earn an income, the credit life insurance cover provides that credit providers must settle/pay the consumer’s debt for a period of twelve (12) months or for the remaining repayment period or until the consumer finds employment or is able to earn an income, whichever period is shorter.</p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Many consumers may not be aware that they have credit life insurance in place and that the premium for this insurance is already included in the cost of credit. To check if this insurance is in place, consumers must contact their credit providers and where applicable consider use of this benefit to provide relief, concludes Motshegare.<strong> </strong></p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: center;\"><strong>ENDS</strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong></p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established as the regulator under the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (NCA) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: center;\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong></p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: center;\">Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a></p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: center;\">Or</p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: center;\">Ntombizodwa Mahlangu</p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: center;\">(011) 554-2624 / 064 752 3926</p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: center;\">E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:nmahlangu@ncr.org.za\">nmahlangu@ncr.org.za</a></p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: center;\">Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za/\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2020-07-16 09:51:18',915,'','2020-07-16 09:51:18',0,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-07-16 09:51:18','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',1,37,'','',1,8564,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(81,219,'Managing debt during COVID-19 times','managing-debt-during-covid-19-times','<p style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: right;\"><strong>July 2020</strong></p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As South Africa is battling with the rapid spread of CODIV-19 and how to stimulate economic activities, many consumers are in financial distress and struggling to repay debts as a result of reduced and complete loss of income. The National Credit Act (NCA) offers various debt relief measures for financially embattled consumers struggling to repay debts and consumers are encouraged to consider these measures where applicable, advises Adv. Kedilatile Legodi, Acting Manager: Education and Communication at the National Credit Regulator (NCR). </p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Below are the various NCA debt relief measures to consider:</strong></p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Credit Life Insurance</strong></p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Credit life insurance is an insurance that a consumer purchases when applying for credit or loan. It covers the outstanding debt in the event of unforeseen circumstances such as death, retrenchment, unemployment, inability to earn an income, disability and others. In the event of the consumer becoming unemployed or unable to earn an income, the credit life insurance cover provides that credit providers must settle / pay the consumer’s debt for a period of twelve (12) months or for the remaining repayment period or until the consumer finds employment or is able to earn an income, whichever period is shorter. Consumers who would like to use this relief measure but battling to get assistance from their credit providers can send a complaint to the National Credit Regulator. However, it is important for consumers to remember that in order to benefit from credit life insurance, all payments regarding the credit life insurance policy must be up to date.</p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> <strong>Debt Counselling / Review</strong></p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Debt counselling is a debt relief measure intended to assist over-indebted consumers struggling with debt, through budget advice, negotiation with credit providers for reduced payments, extension of repayment term and restructuring of debt. Debt counselling also offers consumers protection against repossession or legal action by credit providers. Consumers who have been negatively impacted by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic resulting in reduced income are encouraged to consider this debt relief measure since an income is required to apply for debt counselling. However, before signing up for debt counselling, consumers must ensure that the process is understood in detail and the implications thereof. Debt counselling is offered by the NCR registered debt counsellors who operate nationwide. A list of registered debt counsellors can be found on the NCR website <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za/\">www.ncr.org.za</a> or by contacting the NCR on 0860 627 627.</p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Surrender of goods</strong></p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The NCA allows consumers to voluntarily surrender / return goods to credit providers when they can no longer afford to maintain the repayments or can foresee that they will not be able to maintain future payments. In terms of section 127 of the NCA, credit agreements under which goods can be surrendered are instalment agreements, secured loans or leases.</p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Legodi says that there is a process to be followed, which consumers are encouraged to understand before they give notice to a credit provider to return the goods. The credit provider is required to provide the consumer with a letter setting out the estimated value of the goods, ten (10) business days after the consumer gave notice to surrender or return the goods, whichever is the latest. The consumer may withdraw the notice to surrender within 10 business days after receiving the estimated value letter, if the account is not in arrears. The credit provider will sell the returned goods in an attempt to settle the debt. However, there is no guarantee that the credit provider will sell the goods for what the consumer still owes. If the proceeds from the sale are insufficient to settle the outstanding debt, the consumer will be liable to pay the shortfall after the sale. Consumers are also encouraged to privately sell goods that they can no longer afford to repay in an attempt to obtain the best possible price, advises Legodi.</p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For consumers with a need to borrow or loan money, they should do so having considered their ability to repay the debt and only use NCR registered credit providers. Consumers should never enter into any agreement with unregistered credit providers who usually retain bank cards, SASSA cards, identity documents etc. as security and a collection method. The retention of cards or identity documents is prohibited and a criminal offence in terms of the NCA. Consumers are urged to report credit providers who retain these instruments to the South African Police Service and the NCR, concludes Legodi.</p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: center;\"><strong>Ends</strong><strong> </strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> <strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong></p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established in terms of the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (NCA) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: center;\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong> </p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: center;\">Ntombizodwa Mahlangu</p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: center;\">E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:NMahlangu@ncr.org.za\">NMahlangu@ncr.org.za</a></p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: center;\">Cell: 064 752 3926</p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: center;\">Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a></p>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: center;\">Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za/\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2020-07-16 09:53:06',915,'','2021-02-10 09:32:11',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-07-16 09:53:06','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',2,36,'','',1,8288,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(82,220,'Who needs to register? ','who-needs-to-register-cp','<p style=\"font-weight: bold;\">Requirements for registering as a credit provider as per Section 40, 41, and regulation 4 of the National Credit Amendment Act, 19 of 2014:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>A person must apply for registration as a credit provider if that person is-\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>The party who supplies goods or services under a discount transaction or instalment sale agreement;</li>\r\n<li>The party who advances money or credit under a pawn transaction;</li>\r\n<li>The party who extends credit under a credit facility;</li>\r\n<li>The mortgagee under a mortgage agreement;</li>\r\n<li>The lender under a secured loan;</li>\r\n<li>The lessor under a lease;</li>\r\n<li>The party to whom an assurance or promise is made under a credit guarantee;</li>\r\n<li>The party who advances money or credit to another under any other credit agreement; or</li>\r\n<li>Any other person who acquires the rights of a credit provider under a credit agreement after it has been entered into.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>A juristic person or a natural person may apply for registration as a credit provider.</li>\r\n<li>A person who is required to be registered as a credit provider, but who is not so registered, must not offer, make available or extend credit, enter into a credit agreement or agree to do any of those things.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p style=\"font-weight: bold;\">Although basic registration of credit providers is under this Act -</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>The Regulator may impose conditions to address matters relating to the purpose of the Act generally;</li>\r\n<li>The Regulator will further consider the application relating to BBBEE and combating over-indebtedness concerns specifically; and</li>\r\n<li>A credit provider who intends to enter into developmental credit agreements must apply for supplementary registration, and satisfy the requirements for such registration.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>For further information, refer to the <a href=\"../documents/pages/registration&amp;compliance/credit_providers/Registration_section_39-53.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">relevant sections of the Act</a></li>\r\n</ul>','',1,27,'2020-09-11 18:04:23',915,'','2020-09-11 18:11:28',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-09-11 18:04:23','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',3,1,'','',1,809,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(83,221,'Who needs to register? ','who-needs-to-register-dc','<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> The Act makes provision for the registration of debt counsellors which have complied with all the provisions of The Act and satisfied the training requirements of the NCR.</p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 13.5pt; margin: 9.0pt 0cm 9.0pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><br /> Debt cousellors will conduct independent enquiries into consumers’ financial circumstances and make recommendations to the courts concerning debt restructuring and suspension of reckless credit agreements. <br /><br /> <span style=\"font-weight: bold; font-size: 9.0pt;\">Requirements for Registering as a Debt Counsellor as per Section 44 and Regulation 10 of the <span style=\"color: #f00;\">National Credit Amendment Act, 19 of 2014</span>:</span> <br /> </span></p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 37.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; mso-bidi-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">1.<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Applicant must<span style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\">  </span>be 18 years or older</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 37.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; mso-bidi-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">2.<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Must have a grade 12 certificate or equivalent level 4 qualification issued by the South African Qualifications Authority in terms of regulation 10 ( a) ( i)  </span></p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 37.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; mso-bidi-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">3.<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Must successfully complete a debt counselling course approved by the National Credit Regulator and provided by an institution approved by the National Credit Regulator;<span style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\">  </span>be 18 years or older</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 54pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: gray; mso-themecolor: background1; mso-themeshade: 128;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; color: gray; mso-themecolor: background1; mso-themeshade: 128;\">University of Pretoria (Law Clinic) - 012 420 5235</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 54pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: gray; mso-themecolor: background1; mso-themeshade: 128;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; color: gray; mso-themecolor: background1; mso-themeshade: 128;\">Damelin - 011 796 2000</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 54pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: gray; mso-themecolor: background1; mso-themeshade: 128;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; color: gray; mso-themecolor: background1; mso-themeshade: 128;\">Rudo Research   Training - 012 663 3251/3120</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 54pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: gray; mso-themecolor: background1; mso-themeshade: 128;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; color: gray; mso-themecolor: background1; mso-themeshade: 128;\">Summit Financial Partners - 087 806 1000</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 54pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: gray; mso-themecolor: background1; mso-themeshade: 128;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; color: gray; mso-themecolor: background1; mso-themeshade: 128;\">Compuscan Academy - 021 888 6000</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 37.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; mso-bidi-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">4.<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Must have a minimum of two years working experience in any of the following fields;</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 67.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Consumer Protection</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 67.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Complaints Resolution</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 67.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Consumer Advisory Services</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 67.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Legal or Paralegal Services</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 67.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Accounting or financial services</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 67.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Education or training of Individuals</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 67.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Counselling of Individuals</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 67.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">General Business Environment</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 37.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; mso-bidi-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">5.<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Must not be subject to an Administration order as contemplated in section 74 of the Magistrate‘s court Act 32 of 1944</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 37.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; mso-bidi-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">6.<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Must not be subject to debt re-arrangement as contemplated in section 86 and 87 of the National Credit Act.</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 37.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; mso-bidi-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">7.<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Must not be engaged in, employed by or acting as an agent for a person that is engaged in –</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 67.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Debt collection</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 67.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">The operation of a credit bureau</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 67.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Credit provision</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 37.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; mso-bidi-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">8.<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">The person must demonstrate ability to manage his / her own finances at the time of applying for registration as well as providing counselling or transfer of skills</span></p>\r\n<!--<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 13.5pt; margin: 9.0pt 0cm 9.0pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Debt cousellors will conduct independent enquiries into consumers’ financial circumstances and make recommendations to the courts concerning debt restructuring and suspension of reckless credit agreements. </span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 13.5pt; margin: 9.0pt 0cm 9.0pt 0cm;\"><b><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Requirements for Registering as a Debt Counsellor as per Section 44 and Regulation 10 of the </span></b><b><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: red; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;\">National Credit Amendment Act, 19 of 2014</span></b><b><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;\">:</span></b></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 37.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; mso-bidi-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">1.<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Applicant must<span style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\">  </span>be 18 years or older</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 37.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; mso-bidi-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">2.<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Must have  a grade 12 certificate  or equivalent level 4 qualification issued by the South African Qualifications Authority in terms of regulation 10 ( a) ( i) </span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 37.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; mso-bidi-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">3.<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Must successfully complete a debt counselling course  approved by the National Credit Regulator  and provided  by an institution approved  by the National Credit Regulator;</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 54pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: gray; mso-themecolor: background1; mso-themeshade: 128;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; color: gray; mso-themecolor: background1; mso-themeshade: 128;\">University of Pretoria     012 420 5015</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 54pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: gray; mso-themecolor: background1; mso-themeshade: 128;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; color: gray; mso-themecolor: background1; mso-themeshade: 128;\">Damelin  <span style=\"mso-tab-count: 2;\">                </span>      011 242 3400</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 54pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: gray; mso-themecolor: background1; mso-themeshade: 128;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; color: gray; mso-themecolor: background1; mso-themeshade: 128;\">RUDO                     <span style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\">   </span>     012 663 3251</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 54pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: gray; mso-themecolor: background1; mso-themeshade: 128;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; color: gray; mso-themecolor: background1; mso-themeshade: 128;\">Compuscan Academy <span style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"> </span>   021 888 6048</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 54pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: gray; mso-themecolor: background1; mso-themeshade: 128;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; color: gray; mso-themecolor: background1; mso-themeshade: 128;\">Institute of Bankers        011 461 7013</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 37.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; mso-bidi-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">4.<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Must have  a minimum of two years working experience in any of the following  fields;</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 67.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Consumer Protection</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 67.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Complaints Resolution</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 67.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Consumer Advisory Services</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 67.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Legal or Paralegal Services</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 67.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Accounting or financial services</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 67.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Education or training of Individuals</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 67.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Counselling of Individuals</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 67.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">General Business Environment</span></p>\r\n\r\n\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 37.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; mso-bidi-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">5.<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Must not be subject to an Administration order as contemplated in section 74 of the Magistrate‘s court Act 32 of 1944</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 37.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; mso-bidi-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">6.<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Must not be subject to debt re-arrangement as contemplated in section 86 and 87 of the National Credit Act.</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 37.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; mso-bidi-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">7.<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Must not be engaged in, employed by or acting as an agent for a person that is engaged in –</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 67.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Debt collection</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 67.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">The operation of a credit bureau</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 67.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Courier New\'; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Courier New\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">o<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">Credit provision</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 37.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; mso-bidi-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">8.<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">The person must demonstrate ability to manage his / her own finances at the time of applying for registration as well as providing counselling or transfer of skills</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 13.5pt; margin: 9.0pt 0cm 9.0pt 0cm;\"><b><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">The applicant’s credit bureau profile should not reflect significant adverse information. The Following is considered as significant adverse information:</span></b></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 37.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; mso-bidi-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">1.<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">The applicant‘s credit bureau record reflecting Judgments exceeding R20, 000.00</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 37.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; mso-bidi-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">2.<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">The applicant has 2 or more Judgments in the last 24 months</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 37.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; mso-bidi-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">3.<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">The applicant has been placed under Administration and or debt review</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 37.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; mso-bidi-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">4.<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">The majority of the applicant’s credit accounts are more than 3 months in arrears</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 37.5pt; line-height: 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;\"><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; mso-bidi-font-family: \'Lucida Sans\'; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\"><span style=\"mso-list: Ignore;\">5.<span style=\"font: 7.0pt \'Times New Roman\';\">    </span></span></span><span lang=\"EN-GB\" style=\"font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: \'Lucida Sans\',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: \'Times New Roman\'; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; color: #555555; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-ZA;\">The applicant has 3 or more defaults</span></p>\r\n<p style=\"line-height: 15.8079996109009px;\"> </p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0cm 0cm 7.5pt; line-height: 31.5pt;\"> </p>-->\r\n<p> </p>','',1,26,'2020-09-11 18:16:05',915,'','2020-09-11 18:16:18',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-09-11 18:16:05','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',3,1,'','',1,772,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(84,222,'Who needs to register? ','who-needs-to-register-adr','<p><strong>Requirements for registering as an alternative dispute resolution agent as per Section 134A and regulation 4 of the National Credit Amendment Act, 19 of 2014:</strong></p>\r\n<ol type=\"1\">\r\n<li>An application for registration as an alternative dispute resolution agent must contain:-\r\n<ol type=\"i\">\r\n<li>an overview of an applicant’s capabilities and background in providing alternative dispute resolution services including a description of the applicant’s track record in handling the clerical aspects of the expedited alternative dispute resolution proceedings, if any;</li>\r\n<li>a list of names and qualifications of personnel providing alternative dispute resolution services, whom the applicant for alternative dispute resolution services proposes to include on its list of adjudicators;</li>\r\n<li>a description of the screening requirements the applicant for alternative dispute resolution services has used in selecting adjudicators to be included on its list;</li>\r\n<li>an indication whether it intends to make exclusive use of adjudicators who are residents or citizens of the Republic of South Africa;</li>\r\n<li>a description of training and educational measures the applicant for alternative dispute resolution services proposes to employ for listed adjudicators with respect to credit related disputes;</li>\r\n<li>a commitment by the applicant not to prevent or discourage any of its adjudicators from serving as adjudicators for other providers;</li>\r\n<li>a proposed schedule for the alternative dispute resolution services, its programme for administering disputes under these Regulations, including a statement regarding the administrative capacity to manage disputes on a monthly basis.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n</li>\r\n<li>To be accredited as an alternative dispute resolution agent, an applicant must:-&gt;\r\n<ol type=\"i\">\r\n<li>have a track record and a detailed plan for providing alternative dispute resolution services;</li>\r\n<li>propose a list of least five (5) highly qualified neutral persons from the public and private sectors that are experts in consumer law, credit law, commercial law, cultural, religious and personal rights who have agreed to serve as adjudicators;</li>\r\n<li>show how it shall ensure that the listed adjudicators are trained concerning these Regulations;</li>\r\n<li>state whether it intends to make exclusive use of adjudicators who are citizens or residents of the Republic of South Africa;</li>\r\n<li>indicate a familiarity with international and foreign jurisdictions accredited dispute resolution mechanisms and processes and indicate its plan to provide an international benchmark for a process that is unique to the Republic of South Africa;</li>\r\n<li>have a statement of any requested limitations on the number of disputes the alternative dispute resolution agent handles, either during a start-up period or on a permanent basis;</li>\r\n<li>have a description of how the alternative dispute resolution agent proposes to administer disputes including its interaction with the parties to the dispute, the National Credit Regulator and other approved providers;</li>\r\n<li>a description of how the alternative dispute resolution agent intends to publish decisions of adjudicators in disputes it administers and a commitment to provide the National Credit Regulator with copies of all decisions of adjudicators not published;</li>\r\n<li>show that both the alternative dispute resolution agent and its panel of adjudicators are representative of women, disabled and historically disadvantaged individuals where such representativeness is assessed in terms of the Codes of Good Practice for Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment, as such Codes may be amended from time to time.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n</li>\r\n<li><strong>Education:</strong> The applicant or a person appointed to deal with disputes must meet the following requirements -\r\n<ol type=\"i\">\r\n<li>(three) year post matric qualification; and</li>\r\n<li>Must be trained on the National Credit Act, Consumer Protection Act and on the basic principles of the following areas:\r\n<ol type=\"i\">\r\n<li>Alternative dispute resolution;</li>\r\n<li>Financial management;</li>\r\n<li>Business management;</li>\r\n<li>Governance &amp; compliance;</li>\r\n<li>Customer service.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n</li>\r\n<li><strong>Experience and Competence: </strong>\r\n<ol type=\"i\">\r\n<li>The nominated personnel and adjudicators must be experts in the following areas:\r\n<ol type=\"i\">\r\n<li>Consumer law;</li>\r\n<li>Credit law;</li>\r\n<li>Commercial law;</li>\r\n<li>Cultural rights;</li>\r\n<li>Religious rights; and</li>\r\n<li>Personal rights.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n</li>\r\n<li>Must demonstrate the ability to:-\r\n<ol type=\"i\">\r\n<li>manage their own finances at the time of applying for registration;</li>\r\n<li>provide mediation, conciliation or arbitration skills.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n</li>\r\n<li>A person who applies for registration as an alternative dispute resolution agent must not be engaged in:–\r\n<ol type=\"i\">]\r\n<li>debt collection;</li>\r\n<li>the operation of a credit bureau;</li>\r\n<li>credit provision; or</li>\r\n<li>the operations of a payment distribution agent</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n</li>\r\n<li><strong>A natural person may not be registered as an alternative dispute resolution agent.</strong></li>\r\n</ol>','',1,24,'2020-09-11 18:19:39',915,'','2020-09-11 18:19:48',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-09-11 18:19:39','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',2,1,'','',1,773,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(85,223,'Who needs to register? ','who-needs-to-register-pda','<p><strong>Requirements for registering as a payment distribution agent as per Section 44A and regulation 4 of the National Credit Amendment Act, 19 of 2014:</strong></p>\r\n<p>(1) A natural person may not be registered as a payment distribution agent (“PDA”).</p>\r\n<p>(2) A person who applies for registration as a PDA in terms of Section 44A of the National Credit Act, 2005 as amended (“the Act”) must meet the following requirements in terms of Regulation 10A.</p>\r\n<p>(a) <strong>Education</strong></p>\r\n<p>(i) maintain and impose appropriate qualification requirements for its employees or contractors who will have authority to represent it in any function of its business of collection and payment distribution;</p>\r\n<p>(ii) completion of a payment distribution training programme approved by the National Credit Regulator (“NCR”) and provided by an accredited training institution;</p>\r\n<p>(iii) the training programme must be completed within six (6) months after the PDA has been registered by the National Credit Regulator.</p>\r\n<p><strong>(b) Experience</strong></p>\r\n<p>The PDA must have an executive director:-</p>\r\n<p>(i) responsible for the day to day operations, with five (5) years experience in dealing with the business of collecting, distributing payments, accounting or financial services;</p>\r\n<p>(ii) who is a person with good record of managing the finances of the company.</p>\r\n<p><strong>(c) Competence</strong></p>\r\n<p>A person applying to be registered as a PDA must:-</p>\r\n<p>(i) have sufficient human, financial, and operational resources to carry out the functions of PDA efficiently and effectively;</p>\r\n<p>(ii) put in place adequate resources, systems and procedures to carry out the function of payment distribution efficiently and effectively;</p>\r\n<p>(iii) comply with the Broad-Base Black Economic Empowerment Act, 2003 (Act 53 of 2003) as amended;</p>\r\n<p>(iv) be registered with the South African Revenue Services and have a valid tax clearance certificate;</p>\r\n<p>(v) be a company incorporated in terms of the Companies Act, 2008 (Act 71 of 2008) or Close Corporations Act, 1984 (Act 69 of 1984) or Cooperatives Act, 2005 (Act 14 of 2005);</p>\r\n<p>(vi) have a board of directors/members consisting of not less than three (3) non-executive directors, one of whom must be independent, with qualifications and experience of not less than two (2) years in the accounting, auditing, or legal profession;</p>\r\n<p>(vii) have adequate mechanisms in place to keep all payment records for at least five (5) years after the payment event.</p>\r\n<p>(3) The applicant must have a minimum capital amount of R5 million for investment in the establishment and operation of a PDA and proof of this amount must be provided in the form of a bank guaranteed letter to the NCR at the time of the application.</p>\r\n<p>(4) The applicant must have sufficient insurance cover in place, which is equivalent to the aggregate amount collected for distribution and adequate indemnity cover to compensate consumers and credit providers for any loss or damages occasioned by the conduct of the PDA.</p>\r\n<p>(5) The applicant who conducts a debt counselling business must demonstrate that the business of debt counselling and payment distribution will be operationally independent of each other and managed independently by different persons and that the payment distribution is not made by the applicant in respect of consumers under debt review in their debt counselling business.</p>','',1,25,'2020-09-11 18:22:28',915,'','2020-09-11 18:22:36',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-09-11 18:22:28','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',2,1,'','',1,779,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(86,224,'Who needs to register? ','who-needs-to-register-cb','<p>The Act requires registration of all credit bureaux. This excludes credit providers or employees of credit providers. An entity qualifies to register as a credit bureaux if it is engaged in the business of receiving reports or investigating credit applications, credit agreements, payment history or patterns, or consumer credit information relating to consumers or prospective consumers. These entities must also be in the business of compiling and maintaining data and issuing reports concerning consumers.</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>For further information, refer to the relevant sections of the Act;</li>\r\n<li>For further information, refer to the relevant sections of the Regulations.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>Requirements for registering as a credit bureau as per Section 43, and regulation 4 of the National Credit Amendment Act, 19 of 2014:</p>\r\n<ol type=\"1\">\r\n<li>The National Credit Regulator will not register a person as a credit bureau unless that person -\r\n<ol type=\"i\">\r\n<li>Maintains and imposes appropriate qualifications, competence, knowledge and experience requirements for its employees or contractor who will have the authority to represent it in any function under the Act;</li>\r\n<li>Has sufficient human, financial and operational resources to enable it to function efficiently and to carry out effectively its functions in terms of the act or presents a credible plan to acquire or develop such resources;</li>\r\n<li>Has adopted procedures to ensure that questions, concerns and complaints of consumers or credit providers are treated equitably and consistently in a timely, efficient and courteous manner, or presents to the NCR a credible plan to acquire or develop those procedures and;</li>\r\n<li>Is registered with the South African Revenue Services</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n</li>\r\n<li>In addition to the requirements of section 46, a person may not be registered as a credit bureau if any person who has a controlling interest in the applicant is\r\n<ol type=\"i\">\r\n<li>a credit provider;</li>\r\n<li>a debt collection agency; or</li>\r\n<li>a person who conducts any disqualified business prescribed in terms of subsection (5).</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n</li>\r\n<li>A natural person may not be registered as a credit bureau.</li>\r\n</ol>','',1,28,'2020-09-11 18:26:48',915,'','2020-09-11 18:26:54',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-09-11 18:26:48','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',2,1,'','',1,907,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(87,225,'Media statement - Regulatory proposals on payroll deductions','media-statement-regulatory-proposals-on-payroll-deductions','<p>The South African Payroll Association (SAPA) is conducting a survey on behalf of the National Treasury, South African Reserve Bank, Financial Sector Conduct Authority, National Credit Regulator, Department of Public Service and Administration, Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, and the Department of Employment and Labour to obtain insights into South Africa’s payroll deductions landscape. The survey results will assist to accelerate the process of finalising an informed, robust and comprehensive regulatory position on payroll deductions in South Africa.</p>\r\n<p>This follows the publishing of a paper in March 2018 titled ‘Joint Consultation Paper: Regulatory proposals on payroll deductions’ and subsequent consultation process. The regulatory proposals explored in the consultation paper seek to achieve a safe and efficient payroll deduction system that works in the interests of employees.</p>\r\n<p>To participate in the survey, please use the following link: <a href=\"https://www.tfaforms.com/4728106\">https://www.tfaforms.com/4728106</a></p>\r\n<p> An explanatory note regarding the survey can be found here:</p>\r\n<p><a href=\"https://protect-za.mimecast.com/s/ZCeVCY6xlmH3XpyoT06dTE?domain=sapayroll.co.za\">http://www.sapayroll.co.za/Portals/2/Documents/Payroll-Survey-Explanatory-Note2020.pdf</a></p>\r\n<p><strong>Issued by: National Treasury, South African Reserve Bank, Financial Sector Conduct Authority,</strong> <strong>National Credit Regulator, Department of Public Service and Administration, Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, and the Department of Employment and Labour</strong></p>\r\n<p><strong> </strong><strong>Date:      </strong>18 August 2020<strong>    </strong></p>','',0,8,'2020-08-18 13:50:05',915,'','2020-09-12 13:51:28',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-08-18 13:50:05','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',3,35,'','',1,160,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(88,226,'Debt counselling provides hope for those in need','debt-counselling-provides-hope-for-those-in-need','<p align=\"right\"><strong>August 2020</strong></p>\r\n<p>Although many sectors have been allowed to get back to work, many South African households are in significant financial hardship and others have been struggling to make ends meet even before the COVID-19 pandemic, says Adv. Kedilatile Legodi, Acting Manager: Education &amp; Communication at the National Credit Regulator (NCR).</p>\r\n<p>In 2007, debt counselling was introduced in the National Credit Act (NCA) as a debt relief measure intended to assist over-indebted consumers struggling to repay their debts through the restructuring of their debts and making repayments manageable. Furthermore, the process of debt counselling leads to rehabilitation as it presents consumers with an opportunity to start afresh and build a clean credit record.</p>\r\n<p><strong>What are some of the benefits of debt counselling?</strong></p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>It provides an opportunity to repay debts without borrowing more money or taking on extra debt.</li>\r\n<li>If you apply before credit providers institute legal action to enforce the debt, you receive protection against such legal action and repossession of your assets.</li>\r\n<li>If you continue making repayments whilst under debt counselling, you will still be protected from repossession of your assets until all your debts are paid up.</li>\r\n<li>Essential/living expenses such as groceries, school fees and others are taken into account before a determination of how much is available to offer towards your debts.</li>\r\n<li>A registered debt counsellor negotiates reduced repayments on behalf of the consumer, using the consumer’s existing income.</li>\r\n<li>The restructuring of debts will be approved by a Magistrate Court or the National Consumer Tribunal and this provides assurance that the negotiated and restructured repayment terms are fixed for the duration that you are under debt counselling.</li>\r\n<li>There is no limit in terms of the amount of debt that can be placed under debt counselling, as long as legal action is not taken, the consumer debt can be included under debt counselling.</li>\r\n<li>There is no timeframe for a consumer to be under debt counselling as the term is dependent on the consumer’s financial circumstances such as debt, income, living expenses and others.</li>\r\n<li>If all your short term debt is paid in full and the only remaining debt is a home loan, if this home loan is up to date in terms of the debt counselling re-arrangement agreement, you will be issued with a clearance certificate and all credit information of accounts which were under debt counselling will be expunged from your credit profile/record at the credit bureau. This means you can start afresh and tap into the credit market on a clean slate.</li>\r\n<li>You have the option of making a single payment through the use of the Payment Distribution Agents (PDAs) registered with the NCR. PDAs have a mandate to collect and distribute debt counselling funds on behalf of consumers to credit providers. This option provides convenience for the consumer.  </li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>Whilst it may be difficult for many to confront their financial hardship, consumers who are receiving income are encouraged to act immediately by considering debt counselling as a debt relief measure and to do so before their assets such as houses, cars and others are repossessed by credit providers, urges Legodi.</p>\r\n<p><strong><em>Below are some of the things that consumer take further note of if considering debt counselling:</em></strong></p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Debt counselling is often times referred to as debt review;</li>\r\n<li>To apply for debt counselling, a consumer must have an income;</li>\r\n<li>You cannot go under debt counselling if you are still under debt administration;</li>\r\n<li>Once you apply for debt counselling, you will not get any further credit and your name will be flagged at the credit bureaus. This is not a listing, but an indicator that you have applied for debt counselling;</li>\r\n<li>Debt counselling is offered by NCR registered debt counsellors and you can verify their registration status with the NCR by visiting the NCR’s website on <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za/\">www.ncr.org.za</a> or calling on 0860 627 627;</li>\r\n<li>Debt counselling is not offered for free. The debt counselling related costs should be explained to consumers upfront by the debt counsellor and these fees  can be confirmed on the NCR’s website (<a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za/\">www.ncr.org.za</a>) under guidelines;</li>\r\n<li>Where a court order has been granted, consumers can only exit debt counselling upon receipt of a clearance certificate from their debt counsellor;</li>\r\n<li>Use a debt counsellor that is close to where you live or work for easy access. This will enable you to physically visit the debt counsellor’s office should the need arise;</li>\r\n<li>Consumers married in community of property, have to bring a joint debt counselling application and cannot apply individually;</li>\r\n<li>The impact of making reduced payment will result in the extension of the initial repayment term.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>Legodi stresses that consumers should ensure that they receive a comprehensive explanation from the debt counsellor and understand the debt counselling process before they sign and accept the application. Furthermore, they must have knowledge of who their debt counsellor is (i.e. name and NCR registration number), what the consequences of being under debt counselling is, how their debt is going to be restructured, the related costs, what their rights and obligations are under debt counselling so that they can be able to make informed decisions, stay informed to proactively address any concerns or anomalies they notice.</p>\r\n<p>The NCR was established, amongst others to ensure compliance with the NCA, receive and investigate complaints. If consumers are unhappy with the service provided by debt counsellors, credit providers, credit bureaus or PDAs, they are invited to  lodge a complaint with the NCR at <span id=\"cloak51729\"><a href=\"mailto:complaints@ncr.org.za\">complaints@ncr.org.za</a></span>; concludes Legodi.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Ends</strong>  </p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong><br /> The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established in terms of the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (NCA) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Ntombizodwa Mahlangu<br /> E-mail: <span id=\"cloak68269\"><a href=\"mailto:NMahlangu@ncr.org.za\">NMahlangu@ncr.org.za</a></span><br /> Cell: 064 752 3926<br /> Media Office: <span id=\"cloak90088\"><a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a></span><br /> Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za/\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2020-08-26 13:52:26',915,'','2020-09-12 13:53:19',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-08-26 15:52:18','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',3,34,'','',1,11985,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(89,227,'Who can complain to us?','who-can-complain-to-us','<p>Any person can lodge a complaint in which the consumer is a natural person and in certain instances, if the consumer is a juristic person (e.g. company, partnership) or a trust with the necessary authority. Complaints may include complaints against any institution offering credit, against a debt counsellor, a PDA or a credit bureau provided the NCR has jurisdiction. Only persons with a written consent may lodge a complaint on behalf of another person. Consumers are encouraged to first lodge a dispute with the relevant credit providers, debt counsellors or credit bureaus before referring the matter to the NCR. <!--Any ordinary consumer may lodge a complaint against any institution offering credit, against a debt counsellor and a credit bureau provided the NCR has jurisdiction. Only persons with a power of attorney may lodge complaints on behalf of another person. </p>\r\n<p>Juristic (trust, companies etc) may lodge a complaint if the person making the complaint is authorised to do so and the annual turnover of the business or group of businesses is less than R1 000 000, or if the agreement in question is less than R 250 000.00 </p>\r\n<p>Consumers are encouraged to first lodge a complaint with the respective credit providers, debt counsellors or credit bureau before escalating to the NCR--></p>','',1,14,'2020-09-12 14:11:42',915,'','2020-09-14 15:10:14',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-09-12 14:11:42','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',3,4,'','',1,6480,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(90,228,'Complaints we can handle','complaints-we-can-handle','<p><strong>The NCR can assist you with the following types of complaints:</strong></p>\r\n<ul type=\"disc\">\r\n<li>Cost of credit e.g. overcharging of interest, initiation fee, service fee, etc</li>\r\n<li>The conduct of a debt counsellor</li>\r\n<li>Credit related disputes against any credit provider</li>\r\n<li>Complaints against credit bureaus, on condition that the issue was brought to the attention of the bureau prior to lodging a complaint with the NCR</li>\r\n<li>Failure and/or refusal to issue statements of account or other documents relating to an existing credit agreement</li>\r\n<li>Failure and/or refusal by a debt counsellor to issue a clearance certificate</li>\r\n<li>Refusal by a credit provider to cancel an agreement during the cooling off period which is 5 days </li>\r\n<li>Reckless lending</li>\r\n<li>Non-adherence to section 127 &amp; 129 of the NCA by credit providers (taking legal action and repossessing assets without following the prescribed steps)</li>\r\n<li>Non distribution of funds by a payment distribution agent and/or debt counsellor</li>\r\n<li>Credit providers taking legal action whilst the consumer is under debt review</li>\r\n<li>Credit provider’s failure to restructure accounts in accordance with a debt review court order</li>\r\n<li>Unlawful termination of accounts by creditors</li>\r\n<li>Overcharging of fees by debt counsellors</li>\r\n<li>A debt counsellor’s failure to obtain a debt review court order</li>\r\n<li>In-duplum-non-adherence to section 103(5) of the NCA</li>\r\n<li>Credit provider collecting on prescribed debt</li>\r\n</ul>','',1,14,'2020-09-12 14:12:24',915,'','2020-09-23 11:08:45',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-09-12 14:12:24','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',3,3,'','',1,7088,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(91,229,'Complaints that fall outside the NCR’s mandate','complaints-that-fall-outside-the-ncr-s-mandate','<p><strong>We cannot assist if your complaint involves: </strong></p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Service agreements, e.g. Vodacom, MTN,  Levies, Municipal accounts, gym etc.</li>\r\n<li>A matter that would more appropriately be dealt with by a court of law or another dispute resolution process.</li>\r\n<li>A matter which is or has been or currently is the subject of litigation, subject to certain exceptions.</li>\r\n<li>A matter relating to administration or Administrators.</li>\r\n<li>Complaints relating to damaged goods, these should be sent to the National Consumer Commission or Motor  Vehicle Ombudsman for vehicles. </li>\r\n<li>Debit orders going off on the wrong dates. </li>\r\n<li>Complaints against timeshare companies</li>\r\n</ul>','',1,14,'2020-09-12 14:13:24',915,'','2023-11-29 08:42:16',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-09-12 14:13:24','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',6,2,'','',1,5149,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(92,230,'Frequently asked questions ','frequently-asked-questions','<table class=\"table table-bordered table-striped\" border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\">\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"396\">\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>QUESTION</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"1007\">\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>ANSWER</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"396\">\r\n<p>Who can lodge a complaint with the NCR</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"1007\">\r\n<p>Any person can lodge a complaint in which the consumer is a natural person and in certain instances, if the consumer is a juristic person (e.g. company, partnership).</p>\r\n<p>If you are a third party lodging a complaint on behalf of a consumer, you must obtain that consumer’s written consent.</p>\r\n<p>The complaint form to initiate a complaint as well as the written consent form will be provided by the NCR or found on the Website.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"396\">\r\n<p>Are there limitations that apply to complaints</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"1007\">\r\n<p>If a period of 3 years or more has passed since the act or conduct that you wish to complain about, the NCR may be prevented from referring that conduct to the National Consumer Tribunal or a consumer court but may assist with informal resolution of the dispute if the dispute is against a credit provider or a credit bureau.</p>\r\n<p>Secondly, if the person or entity that you wish to lodge a complaint against was previously referred to the National Consumer Tribunal for a complaint that is substantially similar to yours, the NCR may be limited from referring your complaint to the National Consumer Tribunal or a consumer court. The NCR may assist with informal resolution of the dispute if the dispute is against a credit provider or a credit bureau.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"396\">\r\n<p>What is reckless lending?</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"1007\">\r\n<p>Firstly, when a credit provider gives you credit without conducting an affordability assessment that is considered reckless lending. During the affordability assessment, the credit provider must make sure that you understand the terms of credit, must consider your credit bureau record as well as your existing financial means prospects and your debt obligations must be considered.</p>\r\n<p>Secondly, credit will be reckless if the credit provider does conduct an affordability assessment but continues to give you credit even if the affordability assessment shows that you are over-indebted, or that you will become over-indebted if the credit provider gives you credit.</p>\r\n<p>If you suspect that you were granted credit recklessly you may approach the NCR to lodge a complaint against the credit provider.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"396\">\r\n<p>What is prescribed debt and what prevents a debt from prescribing</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"1007\">\r\n<p>Loosely speaking, prescribed debt is debt that has expired and which a credit provider may not collect from you. Most debt prescribes after 3 years from the date of your last payment, but be careful, a judgment debt and a debt secured by a mortgage bond expires after 30 years.</p>\r\n<p>The following prevents a debt from prescribing:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>an acknowledgment of debt by a debtor (for example, if a debtor pays part of his/her debt to the creditor before prescription, or agrees (expressly or by implication) before the debt expires that he or she knows about the debt and that he or she owes that debt or</li>\r\n<li>a summons served by the credit provider on the debtor in order to claim payment of the debt.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"396\">\r\n<p>What is credit life insurance</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"1007\">\r\n<p> </p>\r\n<p>Credit life insurance is a sub-category of 3 other types of credit insurance. A credit provider may require you to take credit life insurance to cover your obligations to the credit provider in the event of your death, permanent or temporary disability, or in the event that you become unemployed or unable to earn an income.</p>\r\n<p>The NCA prescribes the maximum cost of credit life insurance a credit provider may charge.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"396\">\r\n<p>Can I refuse to take up credit life insurance and can I choose my own insurer</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"1007\">\r\n<p>The credit provider may require you to take up credit life insurance as a condition for giving you credit. So if you do not want to take up the credit life insurance, the credit provider may also refuse to grant you credit.</p>\r\n<p>You may however choose to take up your own credit life insurance and not the one offered by the credit provider, as long as it covers the minimum benefits such as death or permanent disability and unemployment or inability to earn income. The credit provider must inform you that you have the right to choose your own insurance provider.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"396\">\r\n<p>What are the charges that a credit provider can charge me for borrowing money?</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"1007\">\r\n<p>When the credit provider gives you credit, the credit provider can charge you interest, a service fee, an initiation fee, credit insurance, default administration charges and collection costs (for defaulting on your credit agreement).</p>\r\n<p>The National Credit Act sets limits for all these costs. So if you suspect that you may have been charged more than the limit prescribed by the National Credit Act, you may lodge a complaint with the NCR.</p>\r\n<p>There are other costs that a credit provider can charge you in addition to the above when you have an instalment sale agreement such as vehicle finance or for a mortgage bond. These are costs of an extended warranty agreement delivery, installation and initial fuelling charges connection fees, levies or charges taxes, licence or registration fees.</p>\r\n<p>The above costs are referred to as the cost of credit in the National Credit Act.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"396\">\r\n<p>What is in duplum</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"1007\">\r\n<p>In duplum loosely refers to a rule in terms of the National Credit Act that limits how much a credit provider can charge you while you are in default. According to this rule, if you default on your debt repayment obligations, the cost of credit cannot be more than the amount of the unpaid principal debt at the time that you defaulted for as long as you remain in default.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"396\">\r\n<p>What is set-off</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"1007\">\r\n<p>Set-off happens where you have a debt obligation with a credit provider such as a personal and you also have asset or a savings account for example held by the credit provider. If the credit provider takes funds from your savings account to pay into your overdue personal loan account without your consent - that is a set-off.</p>\r\n<p>Set-off is not allowed unless your consent has been obtained by the credit provider.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"396\">\r\n<p>Why are my outstanding balancing increasing or not decreasing</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"1007\">\r\n<p>Defaulting on your payments may lead to an increasing outstanding balance because when you don’t pay your account or you make short payments on your account, the credit provider may charge default interest and continues to charge contractual interest and other charges. If there is no instalment going into your account or the instalment is lower than the agreed amount, this interest and charges will accumulate thus increasing your outstanding balance.</p>\r\n<p>Generally, during the early stages of your credit agreement or debt review, a large portion of your instalments goes towards paying off your interest and other charges therefore your outstanding balance may decrease very slowly initially.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"396\">\r\n<p>What is the difference between repossession and voluntary surrender</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"1007\">\r\n<p>Repossession can happen when you have been in default of your debt repayment obligations for more than 20 business days and you do not respond to the notice from your credit provider to make a payment arrangement to bring up your arrears or refer the dispute to a debt counsellor, alternative dispute resolution or an ombud. The credit provider can then issue a summons and ask the court to grant the credit provider an order and a warrant which a sheriff can use to repossess the goods.</p>\r\n<p>Voluntary surrender is when you voluntarily give up the asset especially where you feel that you can no longer afford to keep up with your payments. When you voluntarily surrender the goods, the credit provider must value those goods and provide you with the sale value of the goods. If you do not agree with that sale value, you can withdraw surrender of the goods. If you do not withdraw, the goods will be sold, as in the case of a repossession, and the proceeds (minus the credit provider’s reasonable expenses in selling the goods) will be debited to your account and you will be liable for the shortfall.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"396\">\r\n<p>I applied for a loan and was told that my application is declined because I’m under debt review. I do not know who listed me, what do I do?</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"1007\">\r\n<p>You may call the NCR, provide your ID number and we can check the details of your debt counsellor. You may also lodge a complaint against the debt counsellor if you believe you were placed under debt review without your consent.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"396\">\r\n<p>How do I know that the credit provider that I want to deal with is legit?</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"1007\">\r\n<p>You may check the registration details of a credit provider by searching for it on our website under “credit providers” or you may call 0860 627 627 to enquire. Avoid dealing with credit providers who charge upfront payment for a credit application. Report such credit providers to the NCR.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"396\">\r\n<p>There is a listing I do not agree with on my credit bureau report and I am blacklisted.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"1007\">\r\n<p>If you do not agree with the information listed on your credit report, you may contact the credit bureau and lodge a dispute. The credit bureau will give you a reference number.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"396\">\r\n<p>I applied for debt review a few months ago but I realize that I do not want to continue with it anymore. I called the debt counsellor and told them to cancel me but they are unwilling to.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"1007\">\r\n<p>The National Credit Act does not make provision to cancel debt review. If you have been assessed and found to be over-indebted, you have to pay and settle all your debts in full before your debt counsellor can issue a certificate clearing your debt review.</p>\r\n<p> </p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"396\">\r\n<p>I’m not satisfied with the services offered by my debt counsellor. He never responds to my email or calls. I want to cancel this.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"1007\">\r\n<p>If you are not satisfied with your debt counsellor’s service, you can transfer to another registered debt counselor of your choice.  A list of registered debt counsellors can be found on our website under “Debt Counsellor”.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"396\">\r\n<p>I have received a 17.W from my debt counsellor but I still can’t get credit, I’m told I am under debt review.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"1007\">\r\n<p>The 17.W only means that the debt counsellor has suspended his or her service. That does not mean you have been removed from debt review. You will remain under debt review until you have settled all the debts.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"396\">\r\n<p>I joined debt review 3 years ago and my credit providers recently informed me that they are not receiving payments, how do I resolve this.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"1007\">\r\n<p>You may lodge an official complaint with our office. Send a detailed enquiry to <a href=\"mailto:complaints@ncr.org.za\">complaints@ncr.org.za</a>. You may also access the complaint initiation form on our website.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"396\">\r\n<p>I have been out of a job ever since the country went into lockdown. I do not have an income and my creditors are not offering any assistance.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"1007\">\r\n<p>Some credit providers have provided relief to their consumers/customers in line with the internal measures they have put in place. You may formally inform your creditor of your current state, however, kindly note that the relief they officer is solely at their discretion.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"396\">\r\n<p>I want to apply for credit life insurance but I’m not sure how to go about it. I’m not receiving a salary because of the current pandemic.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"1007\">\r\n<p>You may refer to your credit agreement to see if it covers this period. If you do not have it in your possession, you may request one from the credit provider or submit an application by obtaining the application forms from the credit provider.</p>\r\n<p> </p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"396\">\r\n<p>I was financed by NSFAS more than 3 years ago. I’m unemployed and they never contacted me for payment. I was only contacted this year and I told them that the debt has prescribed but they are disputing this. Please assist.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"1007\">\r\n<p>Before a debt can prescribe it must first become due. If the credit provider is not aware that the debt is due because of something in the credit agreement making it the responsibility of the debtor to inform the credit provider that the debt is now due, prescription will not begin to run. If for example your NSFAS contract states that you must start paying back the debt when you start earning R20 000.00 and NSFAS is not aware that you have been earning R20 000.00, the debt has not prescribed.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n</tbody>\r\n</table>','',1,14,'2020-09-12 15:23:01',915,'','2020-09-23 11:46:18',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-09-12 15:23:01','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',9,1,'','',1,6369,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(93,231,'NCR contact','ncr-contact','<table class=\"table table-bordered table-striped\" border=\"0\">\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>Physical Address:</td>\r\n<td>Contact information</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\">\r\n<p>127 - 15th Road<br /> Randjespark<br /> Midrand<br /> 1683</p>\r\n<p>232-15th Road <strong>(Call-Centre, Complaints and Investigations Department )</strong><br /> Randjespark<br /> Midrand<br /> 1683</p>\r\n<p><strong>Operating hours:</strong></p>\r\n<p><strong>Monday to Thursday:</strong> 08h00 to 17h00</p>\r\n<p><strong>Friday:</strong> 08h00 to 16h30</p>\r\n<p><strong>NCR Reception:</strong> 011 554 2700</p>\r\n<p><strong>NCR Call Centre:</strong> 0860 627 627</p>\r\n<!--<p>232 - 15th Road<br /> Randjespark<br /> Midrand<br />1683</p>\r\n<p>Departments at 127 - 15th Road (Head office)</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Credit Bureau Compliance</li>\r\n<li>Credit Provider Compliance</li>\r\n<li>Debt Counselling</li>\r\n<li>Debt Intervention</li>\r\n<li>Education and Communication</li>\r\n<li>Statistics and Research</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>Departments at 232 - 15th Road(Call Centre, Complaints and Registrations)</p>--></td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\">\r\n<p><strong>Email:</strong> <a href=\"mailto:info@ncr.org.za\">info@ncr.org.za</a></p>\r\n<p><strong>Educational workshops:</strong> <a href=\"mailto:workshops@ncr.org.za\">workshops@ncr.org.za</a></p>\r\n<p><strong>Complaints:</strong> <a href=\"mailto:complaints@ncr.org.za\">complaints@ncr.org.za</a></p>\r\n<p>For 3rd parties complaints on behalf of the consumers, please  <a href=\"documents/written consent regulation.docx\">click here</a></p>\r\n<p>To lodge a complaint <a href=\"documents/form_29.pdf\">click here</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n</tbody>\r\n</table>','',1,18,'2020-09-14 11:16:29',915,'','2021-10-14 15:25:41',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-09-14 11:16:29','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',36,0,'','',1,83479,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(94,234,'Voluntary cancellation of registration','voluntary-cancellation-of-registration-cb','<p>In terms of Section 58, a registrant may cancel its registration by giving the National Credit Regulator written notice in the prescribed manner and form-</p>\r\n<p>(a) stating the registrant’s intention to voluntarily cancel the registration; and</p>\r\n<p>(b) specifying a date, at least five business days after the date of the notice, on which the cancellation is to take effect.</p>\r\n<p><strong><u>Additional Requirements for voluntary cancellation of registration</u></strong></p>\r\n<ol>\r\n<li><a href=\"documents/pages/registration&amp;compliance/credit_bureau/Form 10 editable.pdf\">Complete form 10. </a></li>\r\n<li>An affidavit stating –\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>The registrant’s intention to voluntarily cancel his or her registrations;</li>\r\n<li>Reasons for such cancellation; and</li>\r\n<li>The date on which the cancellation shall take effect;</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</li>\r\n<li>Attach to the said notice the original registration certificate and the window decal issued to the registrant by the National Credit Regulator.</li>\r\n<li>A letter from the auditor/accounting officer confirming that the registered activities have ceased and that all consumer credit information has been deleted from your system.</li>\r\n</ol>','',1,28,'2020-09-29 11:11:38',915,'','2021-03-01 15:20:40',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-09-29 11:11:38','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',10,0,'','',1,4208,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(95,235,'Success Stories','success-stories','','',1,14,'2020-09-29 13:51:18',915,'','2020-09-29 13:51:18',0,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-09-29 13:51:18','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',1,0,'','',1,5305,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(96,236,'Voluntary cancellation of registration','voluntary-cancellation-of-registration-cp','<p>In terms of Section 58, a registrant may cancel its registration by giving the National Credit Regulator written notice in the prescribed manner and form-</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>stating the registrant’s intention to voluntarily cancel the registration; and</li>\r\n<li>specifying a date, at least five business days after the date of the notice, on which the cancellation is to take effect.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p><strong><u>Additional Requirements for voluntary cancellation of registration</u></strong></p>\r\n<ol>\r\n<li><a href=\"documents/pages/registration&amp;compliance/credit_providers/Form 10 editable.pdf\">Complete form 10.</a></li>\r\n<li>An affidavit or a letter from the accounting officer/Auditor confirming the reasons for cancellation and that the loan book balance is zero and or that the loan book has been taken over by another entity (Please mention the entity and their NCRCP number).</li>\r\n<li>Attach to the said notice the original registration certificate issued to the registrant by the National Credit Regulator.</li>\r\n</ol>','',1,27,'2020-09-29 15:06:56',915,'','2020-09-29 16:17:05',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-09-29 15:06:56','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',5,0,'','',1,4266,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(97,237,'Voluntary cancellation of registration','voluntary-cancellation-of-registration-pda','<p>In terms of Section 58, a registrant may cancel its registration by giving the National Credit Regulator written notice in the prescribed manner and form-</p>\r\n<p>(a) stating the registrant’s intention to voluntarily cancel the registration; and</p>\r\n<p>(b) specifying a date, at least five business days after the date of the notice, on which the cancellation is to take effect.</p>\r\n<p><strong><u>Additional Requirements for voluntary cancellation of registration</u></strong></p>\r\n<ol>\r\n<li><a href=\"documents/pages/registration&amp;compliance/credit_bureau/Form 10 editable.pdf\">Complete form 10. </a></li>\r\n<li>An affidavit stating –\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>The registrant’s intention to voluntarily cancel his or her registrations;</li>\r\n<li>Reasons for such cancellation; and</li>\r\n<li>The date on which the cancellation shall take effect;</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</li>\r\n<li>Attach to the said notice the original registration certificate decal issued to the registrant by the National Credit Regulator.</li>\r\n</ol>','',1,25,'2020-09-29 16:20:13',915,'','2020-09-29 16:20:24',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-09-29 16:20:13','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',2,0,'','',1,3589,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(98,238,'Voluntary cancellation of registration','voluntary-cancellation-of-registration-adr','<p>In terms of Section 58, a registrant may cancel its registration by giving the National Credit Regulator written notice in the prescribed manner and form-</p>\r\n<p>(a) stating the registrant’s intention to voluntarily cancel the registration; and</p>\r\n<p>(b) specifying a date, at least five business days after the date of the notice, on which the cancellation is to take effect.</p>\r\n<p><strong><u>Additional Requirements for voluntary cancellation of registration</u></strong></p>\r\n<ol>\r\n<li><a href=\"documents/pages/registration&amp;compliance/credit_bureau/Form 10 editable.pdf\">Complete form 10. </a></li>\r\n<li>An affidavit stating –\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>The registrant’s intention to voluntarily cancel his or her registrations;</li>\r\n<li>Reasons for such cancellation; and</li>\r\n<li>The date on which the cancellation shall take effect;</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</li>\r\n<li>Attach to the said notice the original registration certificate and the window decal issued to the registrant by the National Credit Regulator.</li>\r\n</ol>','',1,24,'2020-09-29 16:25:09',915,'','2021-03-01 15:20:07',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-09-29 16:25:09','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',4,0,'','',1,5343,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(99,239,'Voluntary cancellation of registration','voluntary-cancellation-of-registration-dc','<p>In terms of Section 58, a registrant may cancel its registration by giving the National Credit Regulator written notice in the prescribed manner and form-</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>stating the registrant’s intention to voluntarily cancel the registration; and</li>\r\n<li>specifying a date, at least five business days after the date of the notice, on which the cancellation is to take effect.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>Additional Requirements for voluntary cancellation of registration</p>\r\n<ol>\r\n<li><a href=\"documents/pages/registration&amp;compliance/credit_bureau/Form 10 editable.pdf\">Complete form 10. </a></li>\r\n<li>An affidavit confirming that you do not have existing customers OR that your consumers have been taken over by another DC (Please mention the Debt Counsellor name and NCRDC registration number).</li>\r\n<li>Provide acknowledgement letter from the Debt Counsellor receiving the files.</li>\r\n<li>Attach to the said notice the original registration certificate issued to the registrant by the National Credit Regulator.</li>\r\n<li>Attach to the said notice proof that all the affected consumers, payment distribution agents (PDAs) and all credit bureaux have been notified about the intended cancellation.</li>\r\n</ol>','',1,26,'2020-09-30 07:35:39',915,'','2020-09-30 07:40:17',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-09-30 07:35:39','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',3,0,'','',1,4150,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(100,240,'NCR BBBEE CERTIFICATE ','ncr-bbbee-certificate-2','<p><a href=\"documents/COR07-C - GENERIC NCR BEE Certificate.pdf\">Click here</a> to view the NCR BBBEE CERTIFICATE</p>','',0,23,'2020-10-01 14:37:25',915,'','2020-10-01 14:37:25',0,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-10-01 14:37:25','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',1,0,'','',1,121,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(101,241,'Voluntary cancellation of registration','voluntary-cancellation-of-registration-rcb','<p>In terms of Section 58, a registrant may cancel its registration by giving the National Credit Regulator written notice in the prescribed manner and form-</p>\r\n<p>(a) stating the registrant’s intention to voluntarily cancel the registration; and</p>\r\n<p>(b) specifying a date, at least five business days after the date of the notice, on which the cancellation is to take effect.</p>\r\n<p><strong><u>Additional Requirements for voluntary cancellation of registration</u></strong></p>\r\n<ol>\r\n<li><a href=\"documents/pages/registration&amp;compliance/credit_bureau/Form 10 editable.pdf\">Complete form 10. </a></li>\r\n<li>An affidavit stating –\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>The registrant’s intention to voluntarily cancel his or her registrations;</li>\r\n<li>Reasons for such cancellation; and</li>\r\n<li>The date on which the cancellation shall take effect;</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</li>\r\n<li>Attach to the said notice the original registration certificate decal issued to the registrant by the National Credit Regulator.</li>\r\n</ol>','',1,29,'2020-10-01 15:28:19',915,'','2020-10-01 15:29:06',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-10-01 15:28:19','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',2,0,'','',1,3251,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(102,244,'Media release consumer rights webinar - Consumer protection matters to come under spotlight during the dtic dialogue','media-release-consumer-rights-webinar-consumer-protection-matters-to-come-under-spotlight-during-the-dtic-dialogue','<p align=\"right\"><strong>Date: 13 September 2020 </strong></p>\r\n<p><strong>Consumer protection matters to come under spotlight during the dtic dialogue</strong></p>\r\n<p>Consumer Protection matters will come under the spotlight during a Consumer Protection Webinar that will be hosted by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (<strong>the dtic</strong>) in conjunction with its agencies, the Competition Commission (CompCom), the National Consumer Commission (NCC) and the National Credit Regulator (NCR). The Webinar will take place on Thursday, 17 September 2020 at 14:00.</p>\r\n<p>According to the Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Ms Nomalungelo Gina, the dialogue is aimed at educating consumers about consumer rights, more importantly during the COVID-19 pandemic and to outline the regulations that businesses must comply with.</p>\r\n<p>She adds that the dialogue will amongst others; explain consumer rights and complaints processes, responsible credit lending, borrowing and spending, price hikes, amendments of the Competition Act and collusive conduct; including the process to report inflated prices.</p>\r\n<p>“The importance of educating consumers about their rights during the COVID-19 pandemic is critical, as some of the businesses may see an opening to exploit consumers and for unfair competition and practices to thrive amongst others. We want to educate consumers about responsible borrowing and spending, create awareness about the responsible lending by credit providers, update them on the cases under investigation for unfair business trading and create awareness on the steps and processes to follow in reporting price colluding,” says Gina.</p>\r\n<p>Importantly, Gina says the dialogue will afford the panelists an opportunity to share with the audience the various support services, programmes, processes and recourses available to consumers and businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic, and further impress upon the need to keep a healthy credit life during these times.</p>\r\n<p>Gina is encouraging consumers to be part of the conversation and acquire knowledge that will protect them from unfair business practices and exploitation.</p>\r\n<p>Please click the link below to join the webinar:<br /> <a href=\"https://gcis.zoom.us/j/92253505093\">https://gcis.zoom.us/j/92253505093</a></p>\r\n<p>Enquiries:<br /> Sidwell Medupe-Departmental Spokesperson<br /> Tel: (012) 394 1650<br /> Mobile: 079 492 1774<br /> E-mail: MSMedupe@thedti.gov.za<br /> Issued by: The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition<br /> Follow us on Twitter:<br /> @the_dti<br /> @CompComSA<br /> @NCC_COVID19</p>','',1,8,'2020-10-09 07:56:04',915,'','2021-08-19 11:59:15',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-10-09 07:56:04','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',2,33,'','',1,10369,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(103,245,'Media advisory cosumer rights webinar -  Consumer protection matters to come under spotlight during the dtic dialogue','media-advisory-cosumer-rights-webinar-consumer-protection-matters-to-come-under-spotlight-during-the-dtic-dialogue','<p align=\"right\"><strong>DATE: 16 September 2020 </strong></p>\r\n<p><strong>Media advisory cosumer rights webinar - Consumer protection matters to come under spotlight during the dtic dialogue</strong></p>\r\n<p>Consumer Protection matters will come under the spotlight during a Consumer Protection Webinar that will be hosted by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (<strong>the dtic</strong>) in conjunction with its agencies, the Competition Commission (CompCom), the National Consumer Commission (NCC) and the National Credit Regulator (NCR).</p>\r\n<p><strong>Members of the media are invited to the webinar as follows:</strong></p>\r\n<table class=\"table table-bordered table-striped\" border=\"0\">\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>Date:</td>\r\n<td>Thursday, 17 September 2020</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>Time:</td>\r\n<td>14H00</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>Venue:</td>\r\n<td>GCIS Video link:<a href=\"https://gcis.zoom.us/j/92253505093\">https://gcis.zoom.us/j/92253505093</a></td>\r\n</tr>\r\n</tbody>\r\n</table>\r\n<p>According to the Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Ms Nomalungelo Gina, the dialogue is aimed at educating consumers about consumer rights, more importantly during the COVID-19 pandemic and to outline the regulations that businesses must comply with.</p>\r\n<p>Gina is encouraging consumers to be part of the conversation and acquire knowledge that will protect them from unfair business practices and exploitation.</p>\r\n<p>Enquiries:<br /> Sidwell Medupe-Departmental Spokesperson<br /> Tel: (012) 394 1650<br /> Mobile: 079 492 1774<br /> E-mail: MSMedupe@thedti.gov.za<br /> Issued by: The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition<br /> Follow us on Twitter:<br /> @the_dti <br /> @CompComSA<br /> @NCC_COVID19</p>','',1,8,'2020-10-09 08:00:18',915,'','2020-10-09 08:01:12',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-10-09 08:00:18','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',2,32,'','',1,9604,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(104,246,'Covid-19 impact on credit extension','covid-19-impact-on-credit-extension','<p style=\"text-align: right;\"><strong>October 2020</strong></p>\r\n<p>The National Credit Regulator (NCR) released the Consumer Credit Market Report (CCMR) and the Credit Bureau Monitor (CBM). These reports are based on the data submitted to the NCR by registered credit providers and credit bureaus, respectively. The latest edition of the reports covers credit market information from March 2020 to June 2020. The total value of new credit granted decreased by 56.72% quarter-on-quarter from R126.35 billion to R54.68 billion. The number of credit agreements entered into decreased by 47.73% quarter-on-quarter from 3.93 million to 2.05 million.</p>\r\n<p>The following were some of the most significant trends observed in terms of credit granted for the quarter ended June 2020:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>The value of new mortgages granted decreased by R25.95 billion (66.65%) quarter-on-quarter and by R27.20 billion (67.69%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Secured credit which is dominated by vehicle finance, decreased by R18.57 billion (47.51%) quarter-on-quarter, and by R20.69 billion (50.22%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Credit facilities decreased by R9.71billion (50.53%) quarter-on-quarter and by R11.60 billion (54.97%) year-on year.</li>\r\n<li>Unsecured credit decreased by R15.10 billion (59.64%) quarter-on-quarter and by R18.42 billion (64.32%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>The total outstanding consumer credit balances (or gross debtors book) as at June 2020 was R1.96 trillion, representing a decrease of 0.94% quarter-on-quarter and an increase of 3.09% year-on-year. The trends for outstanding balances for the quarter ended June 2020 were as follows:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Mortgages debtors book decreased by R4.26 billion (0.43%) for the quarter ended June 2020 and increased by R25.90 billion (2.70%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Secured credit debtors book decreased by R4.51 billion (1.01%) for the quarter ended June 2020 and increased by R7.63 billion (1.75%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Credit facilities debtors book decreased by R6.96 billion (2.64%) for the quarter ended June 2020 and increased by R7.42 billion (2.97%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Unsecured credit debtors book decreased by R2.97 billion (1.33%) for the quarter ended June 2020 and increased by R15.24 billion (7.41%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>Credit bureaus held records for 26.96 million credit-active consumers, which showed a decrease of 3.69% when compared to the 27.99 million in the previous quarter. Consumers classified in good standing decreased by 559,318 to 16.96 million consumers. This amounts to 62.90% of the total number of credit-active consumers, a decrease of 3.19% quarter-on-quarter and 3.65% year-on-year. The number of credit active accounts decreased from 85.99 million to 85.23 million in the quarter ended June 2020. The number of impaired accounts has increased from 19.88 million (23.12%) to 20.66 million (24.24%) in June 2020, an increase of 779,707 quarter-on-quarter and 506,836 year-on-year.</p>\r\n<p>The number of credit reports issued to consumers decreased from 240,688 to 217,743. A total of 199,977 (91.84%) credit reports were issued free of charge, and the balance of 17,766 (8.16%) were issued at a cost. There were 29,017 disputes lodged on information held on consumer credit records for the quarter ended June 2020, a decrease of 26.67% quarter-on-quarter and 21.66% year-on-year.</p>\r\n<p>Nomsa Motshegare, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the NCR advises consumers battling to keep up with their payments to contact their credit providers first to negotiate for lower instalments or some kind of relief to assist them with their debts. If this fails, consumers are further advised to approach registered debt counsellors for assistance. Motshegare further advised that consumers who have credit life insurance should make a claim against their credit life insurance. Credit life insurance is an insurance that a consumer purchases when applying for credit or loan. It covers the outstanding debt in the event of unforeseen circumstances such as death, retrenchment, unemployment, inability to earn an income, disability and others. In the event of the consumer becoming unemployed or unable to earn an income, the credit life insurance cover provides that credit providers must settle / pay the consumer’s debt for a period of twelve (12) months or for the remaining repayment period or until the consumer finds employment or is able to earn an income, whichever period is shorter. Consumers can contact the NCR on 0860 627 627 / www.ncr.org.za for additional information.</p>\r\n<p><strong>Comparisons in this release- ‘quarter-on-quarter’ refers to a comparison between the March 2020 and June 2020 quarters, and ‘year-on-year’ refers to a comparison between the June 2019 and June 2020 quarters.</strong></p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>ENDS</strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p>About The National Credit Regulator<br /> The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established as the regulator under the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (NCA) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong></p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a></p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Or</p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Ntombizodwa Mahlangu</p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">064 752 3926</p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:nmahlangu@ncr.org.za\">nmahlangu@ncr.org.za</a></p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>\r\n<p> </p>','',1,8,'2020-10-09 08:01:30',915,'','2020-10-09 08:01:30',0,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-10-09 08:01:30','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',1,31,'','',1,10757,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(105,247,'latest news','latest-news-more','<p class=\"backbottom\">{loadmodule mod_articles_category,News listing}</p>','',1,2,'2020-10-09 08:13:21',915,'','2020-10-09 08:15:24',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-10-09 08:13:21','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',3,2,'','',1,5084,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(106,257,'Tip Off Anonymous: Ethics Line by KPMG','tip-off-anonymous-ethics-line-by-kpmg','<p><img style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" src=\"images/Poster.jpg\" width=\"500\" /></p>','',1,40,'2021-01-07 08:40:43',915,'','2021-01-07 08:40:43',0,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2021-01-07 08:40:43','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',1,0,'','',1,11055,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(107,258,'Avoid spending what you do not have on Black Friday!','avoid-spending-what-you-do-not-have-on-black-friday','<p align=\"right\"><strong>November 2020</strong></p>\r\n<p>It is beyond doubt that this year has been exceptionally difficult for everyone in many ways. The Covid-19 pandemic which resulted in loss of income, retrenchments and salary reductions for some consumers, added extra financial pressure on the already-financially –stressed households and/or individuals. The effect of the aforementioned factors is that consumers are likely to find themselves battling to meet their current financial obligations, says Anne-Carien Du Plooy, Acting Manager: Education &amp; Communication at the National Credit Regulator (NCR).</p>\r\n<p>Some consumers are looking forward to the upcoming Black Friday deals and bargains. Certain retailers have already announced that this year’s “Black Friday” deals will start earlier, says Du Plooy. In these difficult economic times, consumers are cautioned to avoid partaking in this year’s Black Friday if they did not properly plan or budget for it. They should rather save their money for emergencies. Consumers are further advised not to use credit for Black Friday as using credit does not amount to saving. Instead, consumers will end up paying more due to the addition of interest and other fees such as monthly service fees, once- off initiation fees, credit life insurance etc, adds Du Plooy.</p>\r\n<p>Du Plooy cautions that failure to pay back credit will have negative and adverse consequences for consumers such as being adversely listed at the credit bureaus and or having legal action being taken against them by credit providers to recover their monies.</p>\r\n<p>Although Black Friday may be beneficial for some consumers, it may also create financial strain to those who participate without a proper budget and planning. A budget is a crucial tool which assists consumers to know whether they can afford certain deals or not.</p>\r\n<p><strong>Helpful tips for consumers for Black Friday:</strong></p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Set a realistic budget of what you can afford to spend and stick to it;</li>\r\n<li>Plan and draw up a list of what you need;</li>\r\n<li>Check the items and prices before Black Friday to do a comparison on the prices and to ensure that you are getting a better deal;</li>\r\n<li>Avoid buying food on credit;</li>\r\n<li>Avoid using unregistered credit providers to get quick loans as you will pay dearly for those;</li>\r\n<li>Remember, cash is king!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Ends</strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong></p>\r\n<p>The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established in terms of the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (NCA) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information contact: </strong><br /> Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a><br /> Or<br /> Ntombizodwa Mahlangu<br /> Cell: 064 752 3926<br /> E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:NMahlangu@ncr.org.za\">NMahlangu@ncr.org.za</a> <br /> Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2020-11-12 10:46:50',915,'','2021-02-09 10:52:22',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-11-12 10:46:50','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',3,30,'','',1,7354,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(108,259,'2020 has been difficult for many, spend wisely for a better New Year','2020-has-been-difficult-for-many-spend-wisely-for-a-better-new-year','<p align=\"right\"><strong>December 2020</strong></p>\r\n<p>Do not allow impulsive and spontaneous spending during the festive season make your January an excruciating one, says Anne-Carien Du Plooy, Acting Manager: Education &amp; Communication at the National Credit Regulator (NCR). “If you enter January unprepared, the month will seem longer compared to other months”. “Avoid excessive spending with an aim of impressing friends, family or even strangers”, she cautions.</p>\r\n<p>Many will receive their December salaries mid-month as opposed to the end of the month as is usually the norm. This does not mean that you should spend all of it before the end of December. Bear in mind that the very same salary should cater for debit orders at the end of December and also for all January’s expenses such as rent, food, electricity, transport and additional expenses such as school fees, school uniforms, registration fees, stationery etc. advises Du Plooy.</p>\r\n<p>Many consumers who spend without a proper budget during the festive season end up applying for credit in order to get through January. When their applications for credit are declined by registered credit providers due to affordability, they opt for unregistered credit providers such as Mashonisas, Skoppersetc<em>. </em>Unregistered credit providers charge consumers exorbitant interest and uses unlawful tactics such as retention of cards and PINs to collect their monies. Du Plooy urges consumers to report such conduct by unregistered credit providers to the National Credit Regulator on 0860 627 727 / <a href=\"mailto:complaints@ncr.org.za\">complaints@ncr.org.za</a>.</p>\r\n<p>The COVID-19 pandemic has caused financial strain to many consumers, which calls for consumers to save more and spend less. She advises consumers battling to repay their debts to seek assistance by contacting their credit providers for assistance. If this fails, they should contact registered debt counsellors for assistance. Du Plooy, however, cautions consumers to be wary of debt counsellors who use misleading marketing and advertising practices, particularly on social media platforms such as Facebook to lure consumers into their businesses. “These advertisements are misleading in nature as they misrepresent the spirit and the objectives of the National Credit Act regarding the provisions of debt counselling as a debt relief measure.” An example of these advertisements is “NCR DC is giving South Africans “Extra Cash” to enjoy by reducing debt interest and protection from repossession of assets. Free assessment sms “YES”.”</p>\r\n<p>Du Plooy gives the following tips to consumers during these difficult times:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>If you have credit life insurance, submit a claim in the event of loss of income, retrenchment, disability or death;</li>\r\n<li>If you get a bonus, count yourself lucky and use it wisely to repay debt and save as you do not know what the future holds;</li>\r\n<li>Do not be tempted by “Sales / Specials” in the shops, stick to your budget;</li>\r\n<li>Always remember that budgeting is crucial, do one and spend wisely!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>ENDS</strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong></p>\r\n<p>The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established as the regulator under the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (the Act) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information contact: </strong><br /> Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a><br /> Or<br /> Ntombizodwa Mahlangu<br /> Cell: 064 752 3926<br /> E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:NMahlangu@ncr.org.za\">NMahlangu@ncr.org.za</a><br /> Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2020-12-08 12:52:59',915,'','2021-02-09 10:53:07',0,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2020-12-08 12:52:52','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',1,29,'','',1,11670,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(109,260,'Start the 2021 on a good note, spend wisely borrow wisely!','start-the-2021-on-a-good-note-spend-wisely-borrow-wisely','<p align=\"right\"><strong>January 2020</strong></p>\r\n<p>It is that time of the year where some consumers will feel like Januworry is three months long because of their financial situation. Unfortunately, some consumers are currently finding it difficult to meet their financial obligations such as school fees, school uniform, transport, rent, etc. Consumers who might need to borrow money or take out credit should read and understand their credit agreements before signing, says Ms. Anne-Carien Du Plooy, Acting Manager: Education and Communication at the National Credit Regulator (NCR). According to the National Credit Act, consumers have a right to receive information in a plain and understandable language and to receive reasons from the credit provider if their application is declined.</p>\r\n<p>If all registered credit providers decline your application, it means that there is a problem prompting a need to work on your finances as your financial woes might be bigger than you realise. This is the time to seek assistance by negotiating for lower instalments with your current credit providers, paying off and closing some accounts. This might be possible if you downgrade your lifestyle, especially during a time when you are battling financially. Visit your budget to check what you can eliminate and that which you can downgrade.</p>\r\n<p>Du Plooy says that consumers should avoid unregistered credit providers such as (Mashonisas / Skoppers) to access credit as they will pay dearly at the end. Unregistered credit providers charge exorbitant interest rates and use other illegal collection mechanisms such as card retention. <br /> Consumers should not agree to pay an “upfront fee”, warns Du Plooy. This is a fee charged mostly by unregistered or even fake credit providers before they give the consumer the money they are applying for. This fee has many names such as attorney’s fees, release fee, admin fee etc. In terms of the National Credit Act, it is illegal for a credit provider to make a consumer pay them upfront. Consumers should not confuse this with a deposit as there is no deposit when taking out a loan. The bottom line though, is that the prospective credit provider will never give you the money you are requesting, they will suck you dry before they vanish. Know your rights and spare your money, says Du Plooy.</p>\r\n<p>Remember the festive season has come and gone and you are still here, so make the best of this year by spending and borrowing wisely. Save for the future as there is no better time like now, adds Du Plooy.</p>\r\n<p>Tips for consumers:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><strong>Understand the cost of credit</strong>. The cost of credit includes interest rate, once off initiation fees, monthly service fees, credit life insurance, etc. To understand the cost of credit, consumers should be given a pre-agreement statement and quotation (valid for 5 business days). These should disclose all the costs involved in the credit agreement that a consumer signs.</li>\r\n<li><strong>Do not sign a blank credit agreement/document - </strong>read the content first, understand and ask relevant questions. You may sign ONLY when satisfied.</li>\r\n<li><strong>Be honest and truthful when applying. </strong>If you are dishonest about your monthly expenses when applying, you will lose the protection offered in the National Credit Act if you need to raise reckless lending in the future.</li>\r\n<li><strong>Borrow only when it is absolutely necessary to do so</strong> and avoid using credit for consumables such as groceries.</li>\r\n<li><strong>Understand credit life insurance - </strong>Familiarise yourself with the terms and conditions of the credit life insurance to avoid surprises when you mostly need the cover from the insurance. Credit life insurance can be a life saver when you cannot repay the debt for reasons such as loss of income, unemployment, disability etc.</li>\r\n<li><strong>Pay your debts on time -</strong> Paying late or not paying the full instalment will adversely/negatively affect your credit report and in turn your ability to qualify for credit in the future. If you think you cannot meet your monthly instalments, contact your credit providers immediately and try to re-arrange payments. Do not wait until you skip payments.</li>\r\n<li><strong>Check your credit report often-</strong> You are entitled to a free credit report once a year.</li>\r\n<li><strong>Contact the NCR for a free educational workshop </strong>– The NCR conducts workshops for consumers around the country at no cost.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Ends</strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong></p>\r\n<p>The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established in terms of the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (NCA) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Or<br /> Ntombizodwa Mahlangu<br /> 064 752 3926<br /> E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:NMahlangu@ncr.org.za\">NMahlangu@ncr.org.za</a> <br /> Call centre: 0860 627 627<br /> Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',0,8,'2021-01-12 08:25:54',915,'','2021-02-10 08:28:10',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2021-01-12 08:25:54','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',4,28,'','',1,485,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(110,261,'Industry Communique for issuing 1 Febr 2021','industry-communique-for-issuing-1-febr-2021','<p><strong>Dear Industry Stakeholder</strong></p>\r\n<p>In terms of Section 14 of the National Credit Act, 2005 (NCA), the National Credit Regulator (NCR) is responsible for regulating the consumer credit industry in South Africa. According to Section 69 of the NCA, the Minister of Trade and Industry may require the NCR to establish and maintain, in the prescribed manner and form, a single national register of outstanding credit agreements.</p>\r\n<p>With the promulgation of the Financial Sector Regulation Act, 2017 (FSRA) in August 2017, the South African Reserve Bank’s (SARB) mandate was expanded to include an explicit financial stability responsibility. The SARB is responsible for protecting and enhancing financial stability by monitoring the global and domestic environment for risks and vulnerabilities and mitigating them through macro-prudential policy action. </p>\r\n<p>This responsibility requires the SARB to, among other things, increase its focus on credit risk by expanding its database with more granular credit data and improving credit information reporting systems. At the same time, more granular credit data will serve the SARB’s price stability mandate  and promote more prudent risk-management practices and enhance prudential supervision by the Prudential Authority (PA).</p>\r\n<p>In light of this, in July 2019, Governor Lesetja Kganyago recommended to the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) Minister Ebrahim Patel to establish a central credit register (CCR) for South Africa. In September 2019, Minister Patel agreed and requested the NCR to cooperate with the SARB and other stakeholders to create and maintain a national register of credit agreements for South Africa, as considered in section 69 of the NCA.</p>\r\n<p>Consequently, a CCR Steering Committee (Committee) was set up in December 2019 to drive the establishment of a CCR for South Africa. Members of the Committee include the National Credit Regulator, South African Reserve Bank, Prudential Authority, Financial Sector Conduct Authority, Financial Intelligence Centre, the National Treasury and the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition. Work has been ongoing, and it is envisaged that the financial sector industry will be engaged for discussion and consultations in the first quarter of 2021.</p>\r\n<p> </p>\r\n<p>More detailed communication will follow in due course.</p>\r\n<p>For inquiries contact Lebogang  Selibi at <a href=\"mailto:ccr@ncr.org.za\">ccr@ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2021-02-10 09:11:02',915,'','2021-02-10 09:11:13',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2021-02-10 09:11:02','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',2,27,'','',1,20891,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(111,263,'The NCR and the Credit Ombud rowing together in the same boat.','the-ncr-and-the-credit-ombud-rowing-together-in-the-same-boat','<p>The National Credit Regulator (NCR) and the Credit Ombud have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) facilitating co-operation and collaboration in achieving the objectives of the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (the Act) and specifically the resolution and investigation of disputes between non-bank credit providers, credit bureaux and consumers.</p>\r\n<p>The NCR is responsible for regulating credit providers and is tasked with carrying out education, research, proposing policies to the Minister, registration of industry participants, investigation of disputes and ensuring the enforcement of the NCA 34 of 2005. The Credit Ombud is a voluntary, non-statutory body; afforded recognition under Section 11 of the Financial Services Ombud Scheme Act, 2004 and is an Ombud with jurisdiction in terms of the NCA; which engages in the resolution of disputes arising within the non-bank credit industry and consumers.</p>\r\n<p>Working together is pivotal to building and maintaining the spirit and objective of the NCA.</p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p>Section 139 of the NCA provides that the NCR may, upon acceptance of a dispute, refer such dispute to an Ombud with jurisdiction for the purpose of assisting the credit provider and consumer to resolve the dispute. The NCR agreed that all disputes against members of the Credit Ombud will be referred to the Credit Ombud for resolution. The Credit Ombud resolves disputes between consumers and credit providers relating to credit agreements and credit information, this covers all disputes of clothing and furniture retail accounts, micro lenders, and other non-bank loans.</p>\r\n<p>The MoU will see the NCR and Credit Ombud work together on several areas of co-operation. The main elements include the following</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>As an alternative to disputes being investigated by the NCR against subscribing members of the Credit Ombud, the NCR shall refer non-bank credit agreement and credit information matters to the Credit Ombud;</li>\r\n<li>Quarterly reporting to the NCR by the Credit Ombud regarding the resolution of disputes referred by the NCR;</li>\r\n<li>Capacity building and training programmes;</li>\r\n<li>Outreach initiatives and credit industry awareness and education;</li>\r\n<li>Research and information sharing.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>The services offered by the Credit Ombud is FREE to consumers wanting to resolve their disputes arising from within the non-bank credit industry. Consumers are not bound by the ruling or decision of the Credit Ombud and may refer a matter to the NCR.</p>\r\n<p>Working together is pivotal to building and maintaining the spirit and objective of the NCA.</p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>NCR Contact details:</strong></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Call Centre:</strong> 0860 627 627<br /> <strong>Reception:</strong> 011 554 2700<br /> <strong>Email:</strong> <a href=\"mailto:info@ncr.org.za\"> info@ncr.org.za</a> / <a href=\"mailto:complaints@ncr.org.za\">complaints@ncr.org.za</a> / <a href=\"mailto:workshops@ncr.org.za\">workshops@ncr.org.za</a><br /> <strong>Website:</strong> <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Credit Ombud Contact details:</strong></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Call center:</strong> 0861 662 837<br /> <strong>Reception:</strong> 011 781 6431<br /> <strong>SMS:</strong> ‘Help’ to 44786<br /> <strong>Email:</strong> <a href=\"mailto:ombud@creditombud.org.za\">ombud@creditombud.org.za</a><br /><strong>Twitter:</strong> @creditombud<br /> <strong>Facebook:</strong> @creditombud <br /><strong>Website</strong>: <a href=\"http://www.creditombud.org.za\">www.creditombud.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2021-04-16 13:23:48',915,'','2021-04-16 13:24:16',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2021-04-16 13:23:48','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',2,26,'','',1,15219,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(112,264,'The National Credit Regulator warns against false information on the National Credit Amendment Act relating to “Debt Intervention”','the-national-credit-regulator-warns-against-false-information-on-the-national-credit-amendment-act-relating-to-debt-intervention','<p align=\"right\"><strong>June 2021</strong></p>\r\n<p>The National Credit Regulator (NCR) strongly condemns scams, which are mainly via online platforms and are aimed at deceiving consumers about debt intervention, which is a measure intended to assist debt stressed consumers, says Anne-Carien Du Plooy, Manager: Debt Intervention at the NCR.</p>\r\n<p>Although, the National Credit Amendment Act (the Act) was signed into law, it is not yet in operation and await an implementation date to be promulgated. This simply means that it is currently not in effect, stressed Du Plooy.</p>\r\n<p>The NCR has discovered several online scams, such as “ask.auntykaryn.co.za” which direct consumers to apply to certain companies in order to qualify for their debts to be written off under debt intervention. This is incorrect and misleading! </p>\r\n<p>It has to be emphasized that consumers will only be assisted for debt intervention once the Act has been promulgated by the President.  Consumers should beware these scams and avoid falling victims to them, she says.</p>\r\n<p>Du Plooy provides the following insight about “Debt Intervention”:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Consumers should not fall prey or victims to scams where companies and individuals direct them to pay for services with the promise that their debts will be written off. Consumers are encouraged to verify such information with the NCR on 0860 627 627 before any payments are made or agreements entered into.</li>\r\n<li>Consumers who are battling with the repayments on their debts can contact a registered debt counsellor directly for assistance.</li>\r\n<li>There is no basis for consumers to utilise agents to get to a debt counsellor and pay agent fees.</li>\r\n<li>All registered debt counsellors can be found on the NCR’s website at <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a> or consumers can contact the NCR on 0860 627 627 for assistance in this regard.</li>\r\n<li>Consumers are further cautioned to never give their personal details such as their ID numbers to strangers telephonically or online.</li>\r\n<li>A current scam that leads consumers to a website is <a href=\"https://ask.auntykaren.co.za\">https://ask.auntykaren.co.za</a>. Consumers are cautioned not to visit this website, to be vigilant and avoid this scam.</li>\r\n<li>Remember if it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Ends</strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong><br /> The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established in terms of the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (the Act) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Or</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Winnie Rabathata<br /> 064 752 3923<br /> E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:wrabathata@ncr.org.za\">wrabathata@ncr.org.za</a> <br /> Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2021-06-21 16:05:28',915,'','2021-06-21 16:09:47',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2021-06-21 16:05:28','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',2,25,'','',1,18870,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(113,265,'The importance of knowing your credit status','the-importance-of-knowing-your-credit-status','<p align=\"right\"><strong>June 2021</strong></p>\r\n<p>According to the National Credit Regulator’s (NCR) Credit Bureau Monitor (CBM), out of 27.41 million credit active consumers, about 395 000 consumers accessed their credit reports in the quarter ending in December 2020. The CBM shows that a significant number of consumers do not check their credit reports as often as they ought to. Although, there has been an increase in the number of consumers accessing their credit reports, the figures still remain low, says Ms. Anne-Carien Du Plooy, Acting Manager: Education and Communication at the NCR.</p>\r\n<p>In order to assist consumers to understand more about credit reports, Du Plooy provides an explanation. A credit report provides a consumer’s credit information such as a person’s credit history, including applications for credit, credit agreements to which a person is or has been a party, pattern of payment or defaults under any such credit agreements, debt review status etc. Further to the type of information kept at the credit bureaus, the National Credit Act also stipulates how long the information should be kept at the credit bureaus, adds Du Plooy.</p>\r\n<p>Consumers are entitled to one free credit report once per annum from any of the four consumer credit bureaus listed below. By accessing their credit reports, consumers will have insight into what is contained in their credit reports. They will also be able to dispute any incorrect information with the credit bureau where they obtained their credit reports, make necessary payments where required and ultimately work on fixing their credit reports if there are any adverse listings, judgments etc., advises Du Plooy. Accessing a credit report will also assist consumers to know if they are a victim of identity fraud.</p>\r\n<p>A healthy credit profile will enable a consumer to qualify for credit and get a lower interest rates as opposed to someone who has a bad credit report. A credit report can also be checked in instances where a company is considering a candidate for employment in a position that requires honesty in dealing with cash or finances. A bad credit report might affect your chances of getting a job, adds Du Plooy</p>\r\n<p>Our message to the youth is to aim to keep a clean credit profile all the time. This can be done by avoiding unnecessary credit, paying all debts as and when required and saving for emergencies. She also added that consumers should avoid taking debt for other people. For an example, you take clothes for your partner on credit with the promise that they will make monthly repayments. In this instance, consumers should remember that the person responsible for payment of the debt is the one who signs the credit agreement as the verbal agreement they made to you will not count.</p>\r\n<p>The NCR urges all consumers to contact any of the below credit bureaus and request a free copy of their credit report, in particular the youth since it is their month. Consumers should dispute any incorrect information with the credit bureaus. <br /> Only escalate to the Credit Ombud if the credit bureaus cannot assist you, concludes Du Plooy.</p>\r\n<p><strong>Contact Credit Bureaus</strong></p>\r\n<table class=\"table table-bordered table-striped\" border=\"1\" width=\"500\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\">\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\"><br /> <strong>Experian</strong></td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\">\r\n<p>(011) 799-3400/ 086 151 4131</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\">\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.experian.co.za/\">www.experian.co.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\">\r\n<p><a href=\"mailto:consumer@creditexpert.co.za\">consumer@creditexpert.co.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\">\r\n<p><strong>TransUnion </strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\">\r\n<p>0861 886 466</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\">\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.transunion.co.za/\">www.transunion.co.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\">\r\n<p><a href=\"mailto:webadmin@transunion.co.za\">webadmin@transunion.co.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\">\r\n<p><strong>XDS</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\">\r\n<p>0860 937 000<br /> (011) 645-9100</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\">\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.xds.co.za/\">www.xds.co.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\">\r\n<p><a href=\"mailto:info@xds.co.za\">info@xds.co.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\">\r\n<p><strong>Consumer Profile Bureau </strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\">\r\n<p>(010)590-9505</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\">\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.consumerprofilebureau.com\">www.consumerprofilebureau.com</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\">\r\n<p><a href=\"mailto:support@cpbonline.co.za\">support@cpbonline.co.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\">\r\n<p><strong>Credit Ombud</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\">\r\n<p>0861 662 837</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\">\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.creditombud.org.za\">www.creditombud.org.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\">\r\n<p><a href=\"mailto:ombud@creditombud.org.za\">ombud@creditombud.org.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\">\r\n<p><strong>National Credit Regulator</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\">\r\n<p>0860 627 627</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\"><a href=\"mailto:www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a></td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\"><a href=\"mailto:info@ncr.org.za\">info@ncr.org.za</a></td>\r\n</tr>\r\n</tbody>\r\n</table>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Ends</p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong><br /> The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established in terms of the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (the Act) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Winnie Rabathata: 0647523923<br /> E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:wrabathata@ncr.org.za\">wrabathata@ncr.org.za</a> <br /> Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2021-07-01 12:55:48',915,'','2021-07-01 12:57:04',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2021-07-01 12:55:48','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',2,24,'','',1,10522,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(114,267,'Research Reports','research-reports','<table class=\"table table-bordered table-striped\" width=\"800\">\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td width=\"156\">May 2021</td>\r\n<td width=\"826\"><a href=\"documents/NCR Unsecured Credit Study - Final Report (Abridged).pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Unsecured Credit, Credit Cards, Store Cards, and the Impact of COVID-19 on the Consumer Credit Market in South AfricaFinal</a>  </td>\r\n</tr>\r\n</tbody>\r\n</table>','',1,43,'2021-07-01 14:15:31',915,'','2021-07-08 14:39:55',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2021-07-01 14:15:31','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',4,0,'','',1,321,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(115,268,'Credit extension slows down','credit-extension-slows-down','<p align=\"right\"><strong>July 2021</strong></p>\r\n<p>The National Credit Regulator (NCR) released the Consumer Credit Market Report (CCMR) and the Credit Bureau Monitor (CBM). These reports are based on the data submitted to the NCR by registered credit providers and credit bureaus, respectively. The latest edition of the reports covers credit market information from January 2021 to March 2021. The total value of new credit granted decreased by 10.11% quarter-on-quarter from R154.42 billion to R138.81 billion. The number of credit agreements entered into decreased by 12.66% quarter-on-quarter from 3.66 million to 3.20 million.<br /> The following were some of the most significant trends observed in terms of credit granted for the quarter ended March 2021:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>The value of new mortgages granted decreased by R8.40 billion (13.40%) quarter-on-quarter and increased by R15.33 billion (39.39%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Secured credit which is dominated by vehicle finance, decreased by R6.57 billion (13.82%) quarter-on-quarter, and increased by R1.87 billion (4.77%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Credit facilities increased by R1.91 billion (10.78%) quarter-on-quarter and by R440.37 million (2.29%) year-on year.</li>\r\n<li>Unsecured credit decreased by R2.69 billion (11.77%) quarter-on-quarter and by R5.18 billion (20.47%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>The total outstanding consumer credit balances (or gross debtors book) as at March 2021 was R2.04 trillion, representing an increase of 1.27% quarter-on-quarter and of 2.68% year-on-year. The trends for outstanding balances for the quarter ended March 2021 were as follows:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Mortgages debtors book increased by R27.10 billion (2.67%) for the quarter ended March 2021 and by R54.05 billion (5.47%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Secured credit debtors book increased by R1.55 billion (0.34%) for the quarter ended March 2021 and by R8.43 billion (1.88%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Credit facilities debtors book decreased by R498.01 million (0.19%) for the quarter ended March 2021 and increased by R167.49 million (0.06%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Unsecured credit debtors book decreased by R3.46 billion (1.60%) for the quarter ended March 2021 and by R10.92 billion (4.88%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>Credit bureaus held records for 27.53 million credit-active consumers, which showed an increase of 0.44% when compared to the 27.41 million in the previous quarter. Consumers classified in good standing increased by 216,007 to 17.01 million consumers. This amounts to 61.80% of the total number of credit-active consumers, an increase of 0.84% quarter-on-quarter and a decrease of 0.78% year-on-year. The number of credit active accounts decreased from 90.47 million to 85.09 million in the quarter ended March 2021. The number of impaired accounts has decreased from 23.85 million (26.34%) to 20.18 million (23.71%) in March 2021, a decrease of 3,650,424 quarter-on-quarter and increased by 296,911 year-on-year.</p>\r\n<p>The number of credit reports issued to consumers increased from 394,458 to 584,437. A total of 493,538 (84.45%) credit reports were issued free of charge, and the balance of 90,899 (15.55%) were issued at a cost. There were 25,404 disputes lodged on information held on consumer credit records for the quarter ended March 2021, a decrease of 4.50% quarter-on-quarter and 35.80% year-on-year.</p>\r\n<p>Nomsa Motshegare, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the NCR recognises that consumers are indeed facing tough times and encourages those who are battling to keep up with their debt to utilise the different debt relief options provided for in the National Credit Act and by the industry. Consumers battling with their debt can approach their credit providers directly to negotiate for lower instalments or for some kind of relief on their debts. If this fails, consumers can approach a registered debt counsellor for assistance.</p>\r\n<p>Motshegare further advises consumers who qualify to claim from their credit life insurance. Credit life insurance covers the outstanding debt in the event of unforeseen circumstances such as death, retrenchment, unemployment, inability to earn an income, disability and others. In the event of the consumer becoming unemployed or unable to earn an income, the credit life insurance cover provides that credit providers must settle / pay the consumer’s debt for a period of twelve (12) months or for the remaining repayment period or until the consumer finds employment or is able to earn an income, whichever period is shorter. Consumers can also enquire from the Department of Labour about unemployment insurance fund (UIF) applications.</p>\r\n<p><strong><em>Comparisons in this release- ‘quarter-on-quarter’ refers to a comparison between the December 2020 and March  2021 quarters, and ‘year-on-year’ refers to a comparison between the March 2020 and March 2021 quarters</em></strong><strong>.</strong></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>ENDS</strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong><br /> The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established as the regulator under the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (NCA) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a><br /> Winnie Rabathata: 064 752 3923<br /> E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:wrabathata@ncr.org.za\">wrabathata@ncr.org.za</a><br /> Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2021-07-06 15:56:18',915,'','2021-07-06 15:56:41',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2021-07-06 15:56:18','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',2,23,'','',1,15799,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(116,269,'Alternative Data Landscape in South Africa','alternative-data-landscape-in-south-africa','<p>The material in this work is copyrighted. Copying and/or transmitting portions or all of this work without permission may be a violation of applicable law. IFC encourages dissemination of its work and will normally grant permission to reproduce portions of the work promptly, and when the reproduction is for educational and non-commercial purposes, without a fee, subject to such attributions and notices as we may reasonably require.</p>\r\n<p>IFC does not guarantee the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of the content included in this work, or for the conclusions or judgments described herein, and accepts no responsibility or liability for any omissions or errors (including, without limitation, typographical errors and technical errors) in the content whatsoever or for reliance thereon. The findings, interpretations, and conclusions expressed in this volume do not necessarily reflect the views of the Executive Directors of the World Bank or the Governments they represent</p>\r\n<p>The contents of this work are intended for general informational purposes only and are not intended to constitute legal, securities, or investment advice, an opinion regarding the appropriateness of any investment, or a solicitation of any type. IFC or its affiliates may have an investment in, provide other advice or services to, or otherwise have a financial interest in, certain of the companies and parties named herein.</p>\r\n<p>All other queries on rights and licenses, including subsidiary rights, should be addressed to IFC Communications, 2121 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20433. International Finance Corporation is an international organization established by Articles of Agreement among its member countries, and a member of the World Bank Group. All names, logos, and trademarks are the property of IFC and you may not use any of such materials for any purpose without the express written consent of IFC. Additionally, “International Finance Corporation” and “IFC” are registered trademarks of IFC and are protected under international law.</p>\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za/documents/Alternative%20Data%20Landscape%20in%20South%20Africa%2024.6.21.pdf\">Read more</a></p>','',1,8,'2021-07-09 15:05:31',915,'','2021-07-09 15:08:40',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2021-07-09 15:05:31','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',3,22,'','',1,16098,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(117,274,'Men and finances','men-and-finances','<p align=\"right\"><strong>July 2021</strong></p>\r\n<p>The total outstanding consumer credit balances (or gross debtors book) as at March 2021 was R2.04 trillion. This amount represents monies that South African’s owe in terms of credit which is made up of amongst others, mortgage bonds, vehicle finances, credit cards, personal loans, store cards etc.  This shows that credit plays an important role in people’s lives and if used properly, it can assist to build or accumulate assets, says Ms Anne-Carien Du Plooy, Acting Manager: Education and Communication at the National Credit Regulator (NCR). “However, if credit is used recklessly, it can cause serious financial strain which may leave many consumers struggling to repay their monthly debt instalments”.</p>\r\n<p>Although, we do realise that financial problems are not gender specific, in celebrating Men’s Month in July, the NCR calls on all men to be financially savvy and take control of their finances. At times men try to increase their family household income by participating in different money making schemes such as stokvels, online trading, gambling, investments, excessive usage of their credit cards etc. While trying to increase household income, some men find themselves falling prey to fraudsters or taking more than they can chew. Some men accumulate a lot of debt and become vulnerable to scammers where they will be paying monies upfront with a promise of being given a loan or leave their identity documents with credit providers in order to get a loan.</p>\r\n<p>Du Plooy advises all men with financial problems to have courage to seek professional advice. There are different debt relief measures available such as negotiations with credit providers for lower instalments, debt counselling, and the usage of credit life insurance for those who qualify etc. Thus, the NCR urges men to take control of their finances by doing a monthly budget, checking their free credit reports with credit bureaus and to also seek help when it is needed. <br /><br /> The NCR conducts consumer education workshops at no charge. If men groups / organisations would like the NCR to conduct workshops for them on the National Credit Act which covers, amongst other topics, consumer rights, budgeting, credit information and credit bureaus, debt counselling, repossession etc. they should contact the NCR on 0860 627 627 or on <a href=\"mailto:workshops@ncr.org.za\">workshops@ncr.org.za</a> or <a href=\"mailto:info@ncr.org.za\">info@ncr.org.za</a>.</p>\r\n<p>Below are a few tips for men to remain financially savvy:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Avoid using credit cards to buy food, alcohol etc.</li>\r\n<li>Compile a monthly budget and stick to it;</li>\r\n<li>Cut unnecessary expenses from your budget;</li>\r\n<li>Make provision for savings in your budget;</li>\r\n<li>Seek professional help if you are battling with debt;</li>\r\n<li>Only use registered credit providers. You can verify their registration with the National Credit Regulator on <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a>;</li>\r\n<li>Do not give your personal details such as ID number, baking details etc. to strangers.  </li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Ends</strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong><br /> The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established in terms of the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (the Act) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p><strong> </strong></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong><br /> Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a> <br /> Or<br /> Winnie Rabathata<br /> 064 752 3923 <br /> E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:wrabathata@ncr.org.za\">wrabathata@ncr.org.za</a> <br /> Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2021-08-05 09:40:51',915,'','2021-08-05 09:40:51',0,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2021-08-05 09:40:51','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',1,21,'','',1,20106,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(118,275,'Debt counselling offers new lease of life for over-indebted consumers','debt-counselling-offers-new-lease-of-life-for-over-indebted-consumers','<p align=\"right\"><strong>August 2021</strong></p>\r\n<p>The National Credit Act introduced debt counselling in 2007 as a debt relief measure that could assist over-indebted consumers through providing budget advice, negotiating with credit providers for reduced payments and restructuring debt, thereby protecting the consumer from legal action by credit providers. Debt counselling is by no means a savings mechanism and consumers should beware of misleading advertising which markets debt counselling by promising consumers monthly savings of about 60%, cautions Anne-Carien Du Plooy, Acting Manager: Education &amp; Communication at the National Credit Regulator (NCR).</p>\r\n<p>Consumers contemplating debt counselling should first understand the terms and conditions. Debt counselling is not a free service, costs and fees are applicable. Not everyone can qualify for debt counselling. In order to qualify for debt counselling, consumers must have a disposable income to enable negotiation for the reduction of installments, says Du Plooy. “Only over-indebted consumers can qualify for debt counselling, if a consumer does not qualify, they will be rejected.” It is therefore, very important for consumers contemplating debt counselling to approach only registered debt counsellors who will advise them of all terms and conditions, costs and fees, as well as conduct proper financial assessments to determine if the consumer can qualify for debt counselling, adds Du Plooy.</p>\r\n<p>Important considerations before contemplating debt counselling:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Consumers married in community of property need to apply for debt counselling jointly. What this means is that when two people are married in community of property, one cannot simply undergo debt counselling independently. Only those married out of community of property can apply for, and undergo debt counselling independently;</li>\r\n<li>Consumers under debt administration cannot apply for debt counselling;</li>\r\n<li>Consumers cannot apply for, or be granted any new credit while they undergo debt counselling;</li>\r\n<li>Consumers can only exit debt counselling once they have settled all their short term debt which includes vehicle finance, credit and store cards, loans etc. and have received a clearance certificate from their debt counsellor;</li>\r\n<li>Should a consumer have a home loan account, payments have to be up to date in terms of the debt counselling re-arrangement order before a clearance certificate is issued; and</li>\r\n<li>A consumer will only be eligible to apply for, or be granted, new credit once they have been issued with a clearance certificate by a debt counsellor.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>Remember that debt counselling is not offered free of charge. It is imperative that consumers understand this and are aware of the costs upfront. Debt counselling fees are as follows:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Application fee: fifty rand (R50.00), payable prior to commencing the assessment. Paid upfront and in full;</li>\r\n<li>Administration fee: three hundred rand (R300.00) per debt counselling application. Paid upfront and in full;</li>\r\n<li>Attorney fees: To be agreed upon with the attorney and communicated with the consumer when applying for debt.</li>\r\n<li>Restructuring fee is either equal to the distributable amount or a maximum fee of eight thousand rand (R8 000.00) for a single applicant. For consumers married in community of property, the restructuring fee is either equal to the distributable amount or a maximum fee of nine thousand rand (R9 000.00). The restructuring fee is a once off payable in month one (1) after the debt counsellor has drafted and submitted the restructuring documents.</li>\r\n<li>After the assessment, if the consumer or debt counsellor strongly feels that there is reckless lending, the consumer is liable to pay a once-off fee of one thousand five hundred rand (R1 500.00);</li>\r\n<li>Aftercare fee: is payable monthly after month two (2) of the debt counselling service. The fee is equal to (five) 5% of the distributable amount up to a maximum fee of four hundred and fifty rand (R450.00);</li>\r\n<li>NCT Submission fee - Submission of the National Consumer Tribunal  of R500 (excluding NCT filing fee);  </li>\r\n<li>Once the restructuring process is complete, a consumer can either make their payments directly to their credit provider or through a registered Payment Distribution Agent (PDA); and</li>\r\n<li>Consumers should request a receipt from the debt counsellor upon payment of the application and administration fees. Debt Counsellors are prohibited from collecting and distributing debt counselling funds to credit providers.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>Before signing up for debt counselling, consumers are advised to request information from their debt counsellor on how their debts will be restructured. Once signed up, consumers should also request to be given all debt counselling related documents such as their application form, restructuring proposal and court order. Du Plooy once again stressed the importance that debt counselling should only be done by a debt counsellor registered with the NCR and has a certificate that shows their names and their “NCRDC” number. Consumers have a right to demand to see this proof. The NCR also advises consumers to make use of debt counsellors who are in the vicinity of where they live or work as this enables them to physically visit the debt counsellor’s office if the need arises. It is also important to have your debt counsellor’s contact details, names, physical address etc. readily available.</p>\r\n<p>Consumers can get a list of all registered debt counsellors on <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a>. Alternatively, consumers can call the NCR on 0860 627 627, concludes Du Plooy.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Ends</strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong><br /> The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established in terms of the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (the Act) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong><br /> Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a><br /> Or<br /> Didi Sebothoma 0647523910<br /> E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:dsebothoma@ncr.org.za\">dsebothoma@ncr.org.za</a><br /> Winnie Rabathata 064 752 3923<br /> E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:wrabathata@ncr.org.za\">wrabathata@ncr.org.za</a><br /> Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2021-08-11 14:56:13',915,'','2021-08-11 14:57:47',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2021-08-11 14:56:13','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',2,20,'','',1,25965,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(119,276,'Looting mayhem has cost some consumers dearly','looting-mayhem-has-cost-some-consumers-dearly','<p align=\"right\"><strong>August 2021</strong></p>\r\n<p>The recent looting mayhem in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal has, with no doubt, cost some employees and owners of the vandalised premises dearly as some are unable to make monthly repayments towards their debts. This is as a result of the job losses or salary reduction or temporary unemployment as some people will only be called back to work once businesses start functioning again. This means that when business owners are trying to rebuild, many people will be unable to make monthly repayments towards their debts, says Anne-Carien Du Plooy, Acting Manager: Education &amp; Communication at the National Credit Regulator (NCR).</p>\r\n<p>The destruction caused by the looters has left not only business owners, insurers and the government bearing the financial brunt, many others in the value chain such as employees of the vandalised and looted establishments, their families and surrounding small businesses are also affected financially. “If you are a consumer of credit affected by the looting activities that transpired in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal leaving you unable to meet your monthly obligations, please inform your credit providers for debt relief assistance”, advises Du Plooy. Missing repayments will, no doubt affect consumers’ credit reports at the credit bureaus, hence it is imperative for consumers to contact their credit providers soonest.</p>\r\n<p>Du Plooy also reminds consumers that credit life insurance which covers the outstanding debt in the event of unforeseen circumstances such as death, retrenchment, unemployment, inability to earn an income, disability and others can be a debt relief measure for those who qualify for it. Consumers are urged to check if their credit agreements are covered by credit life insurance because in the event of the consumer becoming unemployed or unable to earn an income, the credit life insurance cover provides that credit providers must settle / pay the consumer’s debt for a period of twelve (12) months or for the remaining repayment period or until the consumer finds employment or is able to earn an income, whichever period is shorter. Consumers who would like to use this relief measure but battling to get assistance from their credit providers can send a complaint to the National Credit Regulator. However, it is important for consumers to remember that in order to benefit from credit life insurance, all installments for the credit agreement covered by the credit life insurance must be up to date.</p>\r\n<p>Consumers whose income has been reduced may consider debt counselling as a debt relief solution. Debt counselling is a debt relief measure intended to assist over-indebted consumers struggling with debt, through budget advice, negotiation with credit providers for reduced payments, extension of repayment term and restructuring of debt.</p>\r\n<p>For further advice on other debt relief options available in terms of the National Credit Act or further explanation on the above, consumers are welcome to contact the National Credit Regulator on 0860 627 627 or <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a>, concludes Du Plooy.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Ends</strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong><br /> The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established in terms of the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (the Act) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Or</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Didi Sebothoma – 064 752 3910<br /> E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:dsebothoma@ncr.org.za\">dsebothoma@ncr.org.za</a><br /> Or</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Winnie Rabathata - 064 752 3923<br /> E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:wrabathata@ncr.org.za\">wrabathata@ncr.org.za</a></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">NCR Share call: 0860 627 627<br /> Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2021-08-19 11:59:43',915,'','2021-08-19 12:00:20',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2021-08-19 11:59:43','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',2,19,'','',1,21391,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(120,277,'Mortgages growth holds steady ','mortgages-growth-holds-steady','<p align=\"right\"><strong>October 2021</strong></p>\r\n<p>The National Credit Regulator (NCR) released the Consumer Credit Market Report (CCMR) and the Credit Bureau Monitor (CBM). These reports are based on the data submitted to the NCR by registered credit providers and credit bureaus, respectively. The latest edition of the reports covers credit market information from April 2021 to June 2021. The total value of new credit granted increased by 5.81% quarter-on-quarter from R138.81 billion to R146.87 billion. The number of credit agreements entered into increased by 9.63% quarter-on-quarter from 3.20 million to 3.50 million.<br /> The following were some of the most significant trends observed in terms of credit granted for the quarter ended June 2021:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>The value of new mortgages granted increased by R2.32 billion (4.27%) quarter-on-quarter and by R43.60 billion (335.77%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Secured credit which is dominated by vehicle finance, increased by R2.23 billion (5.45%) quarter-on-quarter, and by R22.67 billion (110.50%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Credit facilities increased by R1.18 billion (6.02%) quarter-on-quarter and by R11.33 billion (119.24%) year-on year.</li>\r\n<li>Unsecured credit increased by R2.32 billion (11.51%) quarter-on-quarter and by R12.23 billion (119.71%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>The total outstanding consumer credit balances (or gross debtors book) as at June 2021 was R2.05 trillion, representing an increase of 0.95% quarter-on-quarter and of 4.64% year-on-year. The trends for outstanding balances for the quarter ended June 2021 were as follows:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Mortgages debtors book increased by R18.16 billion (1.74%) quarter–on-quarter and by R76.48 billion (7.77%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Secured credit debtors book increased by R3.12 billion (0.68%) quarter-on-quarter and by R16.06 billion (3.62%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Credit facilities debtors book increased by R1.53 billion (0.58%) quarter-on-quarter and by R8.66 billion (3.36%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Unsecured credit debtors book decreased by R2.77 billion (1.30%) quarter-on-quarter and by R10.72 billion (4.85%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>Credit bureaus held records for 26.22 million credit-active consumers, which showed a decrease of 4.77% when compared to the 27.53 million in the previous quarter. Consumers classified in good standing decreased by 868,581 to 16.14 million consumers. This amounts to 61.59% of the total number of credit-active consumers. The number of credit-active accounts decreased from 85.09 million to 85.08 million in the quarter ended June 2021. The number of impaired accounts has decreased from 20.18 million (23.71%) to 19.86 million (23.34%) in June 2021, a decrease of 313,348 quarter-on-quarter and 796,144 year-on-year.</p>\r\n<p>The number of credit reports issued to consumers increased from 584,437 to 588,018. A total of 548,150 (93.22%) credit reports were issued free of charge, and the balance of 39,868 (6.78%) were issued at a cost. There were 30,844 disputes lodged on information held on consumer credit records for the quarter ended June 2021.</p>\r\n<p>It is by no doubt that, COVID-19 has had a financial impact on consumers as some have lost employment whilst others have had a reduction in their income. This has therefore; put a lot of strain to immediate families and even extended families. The NCR continues to encourage those consumers who are battling with their debts to use available debt relief mechanisms such as contacting one’s credit providers and re-negotiating payment terms, if this fails, consumers can consider debt counselling. A list of all registered debt counsellors is available on the NCR’s website (<a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a> or by calling 0860 627 627). Credit life insurance is also an option to be considered where necessary. In order to know if you have credit life insurance, consumers should check their credit agreements or contact their credit providers for assistance, says Nomsa Motshegare, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the NCR.</p>\r\n<p> </p>\r\n<p><strong><em>Comparisons in this release- ‘quarter-on-quarter’ refers to a comparison between the March and June 2021 quarters, and ‘year-on-year’ refers to a comparison between the June 2020 and June 2021 quarters</em></strong><strong>.</strong></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>ENDS</strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong><br /> The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established as the regulator under the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (NCA) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong> <br /> Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a> <br /> Or<br /> Didi Sebothoma <br /> 064 752 3910<br /> E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:nmahlangu@ncr.org.za\">dsebothoma@ncr.org.za</a> <br /> Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2021-10-13 15:57:51',915,'','2021-10-13 16:05:13',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2021-10-13 15:57:51','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',2,18,'','',1,11829,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(121,278,'It is illegal for a credit provider to take a consumer’s ID or cards when granting credit ','it-is-illegal-for-a-credit-provider-to-take-a-consumer-s-id-or-cards-when-granting-credit','<p align=\"right\"><strong>October 2021</strong></p>\r\n<p>“In terms of the National Credit Act, it is illegal for credit providers to retain consumers’ instruments such as identity documents (IDs), and bank cards when granting credit. This is the <em>modus operandi</em> adopted by some credit providers to enforce credit agreements entered into with consumers”. Ms Anne-Carien Du Plooy, Acting Manager: Education and Communication at the National Credit Regulator said that all people meeting voting requirements have a constitutional right to vote during elections held in the country. The National Credit Regulator is therefore, instructing all credit providers illegally in possession of consumers’ personal instruments to return them to the rightful owners as consumers will need their IDs in order to participate in the upcoming elections, she stressed.</p>\r\n<p>If your bank card or identity document has been taken by a credit provider, you are urged to fetch it from that credit provider. Should they refuse to return these instruments, report the credit provider to your nearest South African Police Service as their conduct constitutes a criminal offence in terms of the National Credit Act, advises Du Plooy.</p>\r\n<p>It is the responsibility of credit providers to thoroughly assess consumers’ applications and conduct an affordability assessment before advancing credit to any consumer. It is in contravention of the National Credit Act to extend credit when you have knowledge that a consumer does not qualify for such a loan. This might constitute reckless credit, she warns.</p>\r\n<p>Du Plooy says that there seems to be confusion about who is supposed to register as a credit provider. In order to clarify this, she explains that it is a requirement for anyone lending money and charging interest, irrespective of the credit amount or the number of clients the credit provider has. Consumers are urged to only use credit providers registered with the National Credit Regulator. Maximum interest rates and other fees such as monthly service fees and once off initiation fees are regulated by the National Credit Act. This means that all credit providers, including smaller ones commonly known as <em>“Loan sharks</em>”, “<em>Mashonisa”</em> or “<em>Skoppers”</em> must adhere to the maximum cost of credit as outlined in the National Credit Act.</p>\r\n<p>If your application for credit is declined, you have the right to be given reasons by the credit provider for the decision. If the reason is, for example, a negative listing at the credit bureau, you need to pay the debt in question for this information to be removed. You do not need to pay a third party for the removal of information at the credit bureau. If the reason is affordability, ensure that you pay your current debt before applying for a new one. Running to unregistered credit providers will be the beginning of your non-ending financial woes, warns Du Plooy.</p>\r\n<p>Consumers should contact the National Credit Regulator for additional information, to lodge a complaint or to report credit providers who keep consumers’ IDs, Bank / SASSA cards at 0860 627 627 or <a href=\"mailto:info@ncr.org.za\">info@ncr.org.za</a>, concludes Du Plooy.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Ends</strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong><br /> The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established in terms of the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (the Act) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Or</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Didi Sebothoma<br /> 064 752 3910<br /> E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:dsebothoma@ncr.org.za\">dsebothoma@ncr.org.za</a> <br /> Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2021-10-21 15:55:40',915,'','2021-10-21 15:56:12',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2021-10-21 15:55:40','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',2,17,'','',1,20922,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(122,279,'Lit Black Friday Vibes – Don’t burn your budget!','lit-black-friday-vibes-don-t-burn-your-budget','<p align=\"right\"><strong>November 2021</strong></p>\r\n<p>Statistics released by the National Credit Regulator (NCR), as at June 2021, revealed that, 61.59% (16.14 million) of the 26.22 million credit active consumers are in good standing, whilst 38.41% (10.07 million) have impaired records. An impaired record is one which a consumer and/or any of the accounts, are either classified as three or more payments or months in arrears, or which has an “adverse listing”, or that reflects a judgment or administration order. The negative impact of COVID-19 over the last two years on consumers’ finances has caused some financial distress. Therefore, sales such as those on Black Friday should be approached cautiously by consumers to avoid reckless spending and borrowing and possible over- indebtedness, says Anne-Carien Du Plooy, Acting Manager: Education and Communication at the NCR.</p>\r\n<p>Given the hype and the alluring advertising by different retailers, consumers are overcome by the temptation to buy the “specials” and benefit from the “deals” on offer. Such deals may blindside the consumer causing unnecessary credit purchases. Du Plooy reminds consumers that credit purchases don’t actually amount to a savings as you have to pay interest and other fees. Remember, unplanned and impulsive buying, especially on credit, may ultimately damage your credit bureau record and lower your credit score. So it is wise to save and plan your spending for Black Friday and festive season sales, she adds.</p>\r\n<p>Consumers intending to buy on credit should do so responsibly. Check and compare prices before the actual day to source the best deals. Before you commit to a credit agreement, check your budget to establish if you will be able to afford repayments. Always request a pre-agreement statement and quotation and know the real cost of credit after interest and all the other fees have been added, she advised.</p>\r\n<p>Tips to stay financially savvy during Black Friday hype:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Avoid impulsive buying. If you did not plan for this year, rather save for other upcoming “specials” during and beyond the festive season, this is not the end of the world;</li>\r\n<li>Avoid borrowing from unregistered credit providers to feed your temptations;</li>\r\n<li>Set aside the amount you intend to use during Black Friday. Draw up a budget and stick to it. Shopping lists will help to curb excessive spending and unnecessary purchases;</li>\r\n<li>If you will be applying for a loan, only apply for what you need, do not be tempted to apply for more just because you are told that you qualify for more;</li>\r\n<li>Prioritise your debts – pay off your current debt first before spending money on “wants” and making new debt;</li>\r\n<li>Stop comparing yourself with peers and colleagues, everyone has different affordability and budget so don’t compete;</li>\r\n<li>Develop a culture of saving and try to save a little every month towards some goal;</li>\r\n<li>Always live within your means and not your imagination.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Ends</strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong><br /> The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established in terms of the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (the Act) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a> <br /> Didi Sebothoma: 064 752 3910 <br /> Email: <a href=\"mailto:dsebothoma@ncr.org.za\">dsebothoma@ncr.org.za</a> <br /> Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2021-11-16 13:50:53',915,'','2021-11-16 15:11:36',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2021-11-16 13:50:53','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',4,16,'','',1,17620,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(123,280,'The National Consumer Tribunal finds Mr. Clark Gardner, a director of Summit Financial Partners (Pty) Ltd, guilty of contravening the National Credit Act and his conditions of registration as a debt counsellor','the-national-consumer-tribunal-finds-mr-clark-gardner-a-director-of-summit-financial-partners-pty-ltd-guilty-of-contravening-the-national-credit-act-and-his-conditions-of-registration-as-a-debt-counsellor','<p align=\"right\"><strong>November 2021</strong></p>\r\n<p>The National Consumer Tribunal (“Tribunal”) has found Mr. Clark Gardner (“Mr. Gardner”), a director of Summit Financial Partners (Pty) Ltd, guilty of contravening the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (“the Act”) and his conditions of registration as a debt counsellor.</p>\r\n<p>This follows an investigation of complaints against Mr. Gardner by the National Credit Regulator (“NCR”) related to his activities as a debt counsellor. The Tribunal found Mr. Gardner guilty of contraventions related, amongst others, to –</p>\r\n<ol>\r\n<li type=\"a\">failing to –\r\n<ul>\r\n<li type=\"i\">make determinations whether consumers are over-indebted;</li>\r\n<li type=\"i\">inform consumers of the consequences of applying for debt review;</li>\r\n<li type=\"i\">update the records of consumers relating to debt review;</li>\r\n<li type=\"i\">notify credit providers and credit bureaus that consumers have applied for debt review; and</li>\r\n<li type=\"i\">perform debt counselling functions personally.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</li>\r\n<li type=\"a\">over-charging of fees to consumers who applied for debt review; and receiving payments from consumers who applied for debt review at the commencement of the debt review process;</li>\r\n<li type=\"a\">using misleading and deceptive advertisements offering debt repayment reductions of up to 50% and free debt counselling services when his services were not free.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<p>The Tribunal imposed an administrative fine of R500 000.00 on Mr. Gardner.</p>\r\n<p>Furthermore, the Tribunal ordered Mr. Gardner to appoint an independent auditor to audit his consumer files dating back 3 years in order to identify, amongst others, consumers who were overcharged fees by him. The auditors’ report must be given to the NCR once completed, and Mr. Gardner will refund consumers identified by the auditors as having been overcharged.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Ends</strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong><br /> The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established in terms of the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (the Act) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a> <br /> Or<br /> Didi Sebothoma<br /> 064 752 3910<br /> E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:dsebothoma@ncr.org.za\">dsebothoma@ncr.org.za</a> <br /> Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2021-11-16 15:20:07',915,'','2021-11-16 15:30:31',915,915,'2021-11-16 15:30:31','2021-11-16 15:20:07','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',7,15,'','',1,17530,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(124,281,'Be smart, mind your money, know your rights webinar','be-smart-mind-your-money-know-your-rights','<p align=\"right\"><strong>November 2021</strong></p>\r\n<p>The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (<strong>the dtic</strong>), together with its agencies, National Credit Regulator (NCR), National Consumer Commission (NCC) and Proudly South African (PSA) will be hosting a joint webinar aimed at educating consumers about their rights and responsibilities whenever making purchases. The webinar comes at a time when consumers are facing considerable financial challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The webinar will take place tomorrow, Thursday, 25 November 2021 from 10:00-12:00.</p>\r\n<p>The Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Ms Nomalungelo Gina says that the webinar comes at a most critical period in the year when consumers are bombarded with offerings that purport to offer bargain deals.</p>\r\n<p>“It is of the utmost importance that we alert consumers on the possible pitfalls they might find themselves in should they not make wise spending decisions. The key principle this season is to ensure that you make your limited funds go a long way and steer clear of offers that seem too good to be true, because more often than not, they exactly are what your instincts say they are,” says Gina.</p>\r\n<p>The CEO of the National Credit Regulator, Nomsa Motshegare advised consumers who will be taking part in this year’s Black Friday and festive season spending to draft a budget, know your limits and only spend what you can afford to pay back.</p>\r\n<p>She also reminded consumers that cash is king, especially for purchasing consumables such as food, clothing, airtime, data and entertainment. Remember, credit comes with interest and other fees such as monthly service fees, once off initiation fees, credit life insurance. Therefore you will end up paying more at the end.</p>\r\n<p> </p>\r\n<p>The CEO of Proudly South African, Mr Eustace Mashimbye says: “It is important that we manage our finances according to our means. Spending wisely includes making sure that we select locally manufactured and produced goods and services which assist in economic growth and job creation. Buying ‘local’ increases the chances of companies employing more people and more jobs mean more money in the pockets of consumers.”</p>\r\n<p>The Acting Commissioner of the National Consumer Commission, Ms Thezi Mabuza urges consumers to demand goods that are of good quality, in good order and are free of any defects.</p>\r\n<p>“The goods must be usable and durable for a reasonable period of time. If you suspect that goods received or upon collection might have defects, do not take delivery. I want to remind consumers to also exercise caution when buying online as they might be transacting with scammers masquerading as legit businesses. Always try to use reputable suppliers where possible”, she adds.</p>\r\n<p>All the stakeholders seek to encourage consumers to participate and acquire sound knowledge that will assist in managing their finances during Black Friday and festive season.</p>\r\n<p>Invitation link: <a href=\"http://tc-mxscan-01.trevenna.net:32224/?dmVyPTEuMDAxJiYyMjE3ZjJmZWI1ZjFkZjZmZj02MTk2MTExNl8zMzYwNF8yMDA2XzEmJmEyNTU0Yzc1OWIwZDIwMD0xMjIyJiZ1cmw9aHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZ6b29tJTJFdXMlMkZ3ZWJpbmFyJTJGcmVnaXN0ZXIlMkZXTiU1RjNCcDJGYTh5USU1RjJ6UWtHOUhPRlhXZw==\">https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_3Bp2Fa8yQ_2zQkG9HOFXWg</a></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Enquiries:<br /> Bongani Lukhele – Director: Media Relations<br /> Tel: (012) 394 1643<br /> Mobile: 079 5083 457<br /> WhatsApp: 074 2998 512<br /> E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:BLukhele@thedtic.gov.za\"> BLukhele@thedtic.gov.za</a><br /> Issued by: The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (<strong>the dtic</strong>)<br /> Follow us on Twitter: @the_dti</p>','',1,8,'2021-11-24 15:19:35',915,'','2021-11-24 16:40:46',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2021-11-24 15:19:35','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',5,14,'','',1,18867,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(125,282,'Consumers are encouraged to borrow wisely and start saving','consumers-are-encouraged-to-borrow-wisely-and-start-saving','<p align=\"right\"><strong>January 2022</strong></p>\r\n<p>The National Credit Regulator (NCR) encourages consumers to make savings one of their New Year’s resolutions in order to avoid borrowing all the time and to avoid over-indebtedness. The festive season has come and gone, leaving some consumers who did not plan properly with nothing. Some of these consumers will be approaching credit providers in order to borrow money to get by for the month, says Ms. Anne-Carien Du Plooy, Acting Manager: Education and Communication at the NCR.</p>\r\n<p>If you are going to get a loan this January to assist you to keep afloat until the next pay day, do so responsibly, says Du Plooy. Tips for responsible borrowing:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Prepare a budget to see how much you can afford in terms of repayments and to track all your monthly costs;</li>\r\n<li>Remember the repo rate was increased in November 2021 increasing interest rates, take that into consideration when you apply for credit;</li>\r\n<li>Only use credit providers registered with the National Credit Regulator;</li>\r\n<li>Get a quotation and pre-agreement statement – these outline the cost of credit and terms and conditions of the credit agreement you will be signing;</li>\r\n<li>Understand the total cost of credit outlined in the quotation which includes interest, monthly service fees, one-off initiation fees, credit life insurance etc;</li>\r\n<li>Do not take on additional credit just because they say you qualify for more;</li>\r\n<li>Do not take out credit for other people as the risk of non-payment will fall on you;</li>\r\n<li>Start saving now!</li>\r\n<li>Avoid credit providers that say “Blacklisted consumers welcome, No credit checks etc”;</li>\r\n<li>Avoid credit providers that require you to pay an upfront payment before they give you the loan;</li>\r\n<li>Avoid credit providers that require you to leave your cards, ID and PINs with them;</li>\r\n<li>Avoid credit providers that offer you a ridiculously low interest rate, if it too good to be true, it usually is.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>Remember, if you take out a loan and do not repay it as agreed in the credit agreement, this will adversely affect your credit report. The devastating effects of such adverse listings on credit profiles are that they restrict your chances of qualifying for credit in the future and/or accessing certain jobs where a candidate is considered for employment in a position that requires honesty in dealing with cash or finances.</p>\r\n<p>When applying for a loan, it is important for consumers to truthfully disclose all their expenses. This will enable credit providers to conduct an affordability assessment on the consumer’s ability to repay the loan. “If you fail to truthfully disclose all expenses, you will lose the protection offered by the National Credit Act. In some situations, unscrupulous agents will encourage consumers not to truthfully disclose expenses in order to enhance their chance of qualifying for credit application,” cautions Ms. Du Plooy.</p>\r\n<p>Consumers who require additional information on borrowing wisely or a list of registered credit providers can log on to <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a> or contact our call centre on 0860 627 627.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Ends</strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong><br /> The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established in terms of the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (the Act) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a><br /> Or <br />Didi Sebothoma<br /> 064 752 3910<br /> E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:dsebothoma@ncr.org.za\">dsebothoma@ncr.org.za</a> <br /> Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2022-01-13 12:44:37',915,'','2022-01-13 12:45:36',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2022-01-13 12:44:37','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',2,13,'','',1,18647,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(126,283,'Consumer rights in the digital world','consumer-rights-in-the-digital-world','<p align=\"right\"><strong>March 2022</strong></p>\r\n<p>On 15 March 2022, the National Credit Regulator (NCR) will join the world in commemorating the World Consumer Rights Day (WCRD) to raise awareness about consumer rights in terms of the National Credit Act. The international theme for World Consumer Rights Day 2022 is Fair Digital Finance, whilst the South African Government has adopted “#BetterDigitalWorld” as its theme. The NCR together with the Consumer Protection Forum will be using the “Sustainable Consumer” theme. This theme will be aligned to the South African Government one in the context of better and safer online and digital interactions.</p>\r\n<p>“With digital technologies reshaping the financial landscape and making all financial transactions, including credit, convenient, simpler and more accessible to consumers, new threats to consumer credit rights in the digital and online space have emerged which can leave consumers vulnerable,” says Ms. Boitumelo Geldenhuis, Acting Manager: Education and Communication at the NCR.</p>\r\n<p>The COVID-19 pandemic has definitely impacted on the finances of most consumers causing economic hardship and creating desperation, making them more susceptible to taking credit in one form or another. “In celebrating WCRD this year, the NCR wants to ensure that all consumers performing credit transactions online do so in an informed and safe manner, protecting not only their rights and information, but also making these transactions smart and sustainable,” added Ms. Geldenhuis.</p>\r\n<p>To ensure that your online and credit transactions are safe, smart and sustainable the NCR is urging consumers to follow the following:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Always verify if the credit provider is registered with the NCR by checking their NCRCP</li>\r\nnumber against the one which appears on the NCR website (www.ncr.org.za ) to ensure that the registration number belongs to that credit provider. Alternatively, you can call the NCR on 0860 627 627 to verify for you;\r\n<li>Beware of fake credit providers when transacting online;</li>\r\n<li>Know the full cost of credit you are being offered or applying for by requesting a preagreement</li>\r\nstatement and quotation before committing or signing any credit agreement;\r\n<li>Beware of deceptive credit advertisements such as “no credit checks”, “blacklisted</li>\r\nwelcome”, “free credit”;\r\n<li>Beware of credit providers asking for “upfront fees” before they give you the actual loan.</li>\r\nNever pay any upfront fees;\r\n<li>Pay careful attention to “Terms &amp; Conditions” – click and read, do not accept without</li>\r\nunderstanding;\r\n<li>When you apply for debt counselling, ensure that you understand what you are getting</li>\r\nyourself into, before agreeing to anything;\r\n<li>Only use a registered debt counsellor that is situated close to where you work or live;</li>\r\nand\r\n<li>Remember the golden rule “If it seems too good to be true, it probably is!”</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>“Being a “Sustainable Consumer” in the digital era means that you need to be informed of your rights and make smart choices with the information that you consume. Remember even when you transact online, you still have rights and responsibilities as per the National Credit Act. Also, take note that the NCR conducts educational workshops for consumers throughout the country, if you require one, you may contact the NCR on workshops@ncr.org.za” concludes Ms. Geldenhuis.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Ends</strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p>The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established in terms of the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (the Act) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong><br /> Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a><br /> Or<br /> Didi Sebothoma<br /> 064 752 3910<br /> E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:dsebothoma@ncr.org.za\">dsebothoma@ncr.org.za</a><br /> Website: <a href=\"https://www.ncr.org.za/\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2022-03-15 14:44:26',915,'','2022-03-15 14:47:33',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2022-03-15 14:44:26','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',2,12,'','',1,18871,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(127,284,'Misleading advertising on Social Media platforms regarding debt counselling','misleading-advertising-on-social-media-platforms-regarding-debt-counselling','<p align=\"right\"><strong>March 2022</strong></p>\r\n<p>The National Credit Regulator (NCR) has in recent times noted advertising practices by debt counsellors and unregistered persons that are misleading and deceptive, unlawful and contrary to the provisions of the National Credit Act and its regulations, causing harm and distress to unsuspecting consumers. This press release is intended to warn consumers against such advertising practices and request consumers to report these practices to the NCR.</p>\r\n<p>Advocate (Adv.) Kedilatile Legodi, the Manager of the NCR Debt Counselling Department says that “in recent times, there has been a surge in advertising for “debt review removals” and some consumers are charged in the excess of R8000 to have his/her debt review flag removed”. Consumers are warned that this “debt review removal” is not supported by law. In a recent High Court Judgment, delivered by three High Court Judges, the Court stated that debt review removal is not possible for consumers who have been declared over indebted, and that consumers need to pay up all debt, except where a bond is not in arrears, to be removed from debt review. Where a consumer has a debt review court order, no Court, not even the High Court can rescind such judgment.</p>\r\n<p>Adv. Legodi further requests consumers to access the NCR Withdrawal Guidelines issued in 2021, from the NCR’s website, which clearly state the circumstances under which a consumer can exit debt review. “If any company offers a service contrary to the provisions of the NCR Withdrawal Guidelines, even attorneys, consumers are running a risk of paying for a service that has no prospect of success without any recourse against persons not registered with the NCR”. Adv. Legodi warns that “before any consumer pays for such services, consumers they are urged to make contact with the NCR, or access the website to verify the registration status of such a person offering the service.”</p>\r\n<p>In addition, Adv. Legodi noted the unlawful practice of consumers being contacted telephonically by “NCR Agents” to discuss his/her debt review status, or debt review flag removal. “The NCR does not have any personal information of consumers and will at no stage contact a consumer to discuss his/her debt review status” she warns. “Consumers are requested to report these “NCR Agents” to the NCR Complaints Department at <a href=\"mailto:complaints@ncr.org.za\">complaints@ncr.org.za</a> / 0860 627 627 and not be scammed by these practices.”</p>\r\n<p>It has further been noted that there are companies that advertise that they work with the NCR to investigate debt counsellors. Adv. Legodi informed that “the NCR has the exclusive mandate under law to perform an investigation into registrants, and cannot outsource such mandate to any outside company. Consumers are urged to request an official Inspector Certificate issued by the NCR from such companies prior to engaging with them. If such Inspector Certificate cannot not be produced, consumers are requested to report such companies to the NCR’s Complaints Department.”</p>\r\n<p>The NCR further noted the prevalence of advertising, especially on social media platforms such as Facebook, Tumblr and Instagram of claims that debt counsellors can:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Get debt written off by credit providers;</li>\r\n<li>Payment of a large amount of debt in a very short period of time;</li>\r\n<li>Government approved method to get debt written off;</li>\r\n<li>Government approved debt relief for over 30’s / 40’s / 50’s / 60’s (Bait marketing);</li>\r\n<li>Pictures of senior government officials advertising debt relief; and</li>\r\n<li>Save consumers 63% / 60% / 55% / 43% on debt repayments.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>Adv. Legodi warns that “if it is too good to be true, it probably is”. She explains that “debt relief measures under the National Credit Act (NCA) are intended to repay all debt to credit providers with certain interest concessions and extended terms to facilitate relief to consumers. It is not a savings plan or magic trick to let debt disappear Consumers remain responsible for debt repayments and there are no provisions in the NCA or the Regulations that can facilitate the claims made in these advertisements. “Don’t be fooled or scammed by such unlawful and false advertising”.</p>\r\n<p>Consumers should not trust any advertising that do not contain the NCR registration number of the debt counsellor. “If the debt counsellor is not clearly identified in the advertising, how can a consumer verify the identity and status of the debt counsellor, or the validity of the service”, explains Adv. Legodi. Therefore, consumers should be vigilant and report any advertising to the NCR where the advertiser cannot be identified. Consumers should also keep in mind that no person, not even attorneys can provide the services of a debt counsellor, if they are not registered to do so. “Always ask for the NCR registration number before engaging with any person, even attorneys who claims to be a debt counsellor or to provide any service surrounding your credit agreements” Adv. Legodi warns. </p>\r\n<p>Finally, consumers must be made aware that it is unlawful for debt counsellors to receive any payments of money directly from consumers. Adv. Legodi explains that “Regulation 11 of the NCA clearly prohibit debt counsellors from taking any money from consumers and can be deregistered for doing so. Consumers are requested to report to the NCR if the debt counsellor request payment of any monies to them directly.”</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>ENDS</strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong> <br /> The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established as the regulator under the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (NCA) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong> <br /> Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a> <br /> Or <br /> Didi Sebothoma <br /> 064 752 3910<br /> E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:dsebothoma@ncr.org.za\">dsebothoma@ncr.org.za</a> <br /> Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2022-04-05 11:08:34',915,'','2022-04-05 11:08:48',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2022-04-05 11:08:34','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',2,11,'','',1,21668,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(128,285,'Keep your credit bureau record clean regardless of the rising cost of living','keep-your-credit-bureau-record-clean-regardless-of-the-rising-cost-of-living','<p align=\"right\"><strong>June 2022</strong></p>\r\n<p>Despite the interest rate hike and the rising cost of living, the National Credit Regulator (NCR) encourages consumers, in particular the youth who have already signed credit agreements to continuously pay their monthly accounts on time and in full in order to maintain a good credit bureau record. The youth are also encouraged to regularly check their credit bureau reports. Checking credit bureau reports enables consumers to spot any incorrect information and/or fraudulent transactions, thus providing them with an opportunity to remedy the situation. Ms. Poppy Kweyama, Manager: Education and Communication Department at the NCR, said knowing what is contained in one’s credit report gives consumers an opportunity to improve their credit reports.</p>\r\n<p>All consumer credit information held by credit bureaus must be accurate. Incorrect credit information can adversely affect a consumer’s chances of acquiring credit or a job where a company is considering a candidate for employment in a position that requires honesty in dealing with cash or finances. “Hence, it is very important to dispute incorrect information before it affects you adversely,” she advised.</p>\r\n<p>In terms of the National Credit Act, every consumer has a right to challenge the accuracy of their information held by the credit bureaus free of charge. If a consumer has challenged the accuracy of the information, credit bureaus must take reasonable steps to seek evidence in support of the challenged information.  Credit bureaus have 20 business days to do that. “Should the credit provider and/or service provider fail to prove the listing within the 20 business days, then the credit bureau must remove the disputed information from the consumer’s credit profile”, said Ms. Kweyama. <br /> It is very important for consumers to know that inaccurate credit information will stay on the consumer’s credit profile, until rectified or until its retention period finishes. A retention period relates to the length of time that a credit bureau can retain consumer’s information on their credit report. However, consumers should not waste time disputing accurate credit information, knowing very well that they skipped payments or short paid the account.</p>\r\n<p>Consumers are entitled to one free credit report once a year as per the National Credit Act, advised Ms. Kweyama. The National Credit Regulator would like to see more consumers requesting their credit reports from credit bureaus because currently the numbers of those requesting their credit reports are low. According to the Credit Bureau Monitor from the NCR, as at the end of December 2021, credit bureaus held records of 26, 38 million credit active consumers. Out of this total, only 648 280 credit reports were issued. From this total, 35 919 consumers lodged disputes in respect of the accuracy of information held by the credit bureaus. More disputes were resolved in favour of the complainants.</p>\r\n<p>In order to clarify a lingering perception out there, credit bureaus do not decide whether or not to extend credit to consumers.  Credit bureaus are organisations that specialise in creating consumer credit profiles based on information received from a person who supplies goods, services or utilities to consumers, whether for cash or on credit, an organ of state, court, judicial officer and a person providing long term or short term insurance. They keep valuable information about consumers’ recent and past accounts, payment history, defaults, judgments, trace alerts, collections and enquiries.  </p>\r\n<p>Often consumers ask how long their information will be reflected at the credit bureaus. It is important to note that in terms of the National Credit Act, there are different retention periods for consumer credit information held by the credit bureaus. Below is a table on the different retention periods: </p>\r\n<p> </p>\r\n<p> </p>\r\n<p> </p>\r\n<p> </p>\r\n<table border=\"1\" width=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\">\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"19\">\r\n<p> </p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"127\">\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Category</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"383\">\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Description</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"198\">\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Time kept</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"19\">\r\n<p> </p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"127\">\r\n<p><strong>Details and results of complaints</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"383\">\r\n<p>Number and nature of complaints lodged and whether a complaint was rejected; no information will be displayed on complaints that were upheld<br /> Note: WinCredit does not display this information</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"198\">\r\n<p>6 months</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"19\">\r\n<p> </p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"127\">\r\n<p><strong>Enquiries</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"383\">\r\n<p>Number of enquiries made on a consumer’s record, including the name of the entity/person who made the enquiry and a contact person if available</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"198\">\r\n<p>1 year</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"19\">\r\n<p> </p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"127\">\r\n<p><strong>Payment profile</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"383\">\r\n<p>Factual information pertaining to the payment profile of the consumer<br /> Note: WinCredit does not display this information</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"198\">\r\n<p>5 years</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"19\">\r\n<p> </p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"127\">\r\n<p><strong>Adverse classification of enforcement action</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"383\">\r\n<p>Classification related to enforcement action taken by a credit provider</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"198\">\r\n<p>1 year or within the prescribed period in section 71A</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"19\">\r\n<p> </p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"127\">\r\n<p><strong>Adverse classification of consumer behaviour</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"383\">\r\n<p>Subjective classification of consumer behaviour</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"198\">\r\n<p>1 year or within the prescribed period in section 71A</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"19\">\r\n<p> </p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"127\">\r\n<p><strong>Debt restructuring</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"383\">\r\n<p>As per section 86 of the Act, an order given by the court or tribunal</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"198\">\r\n<p>Within the period prescribed in section 71(1) of the Act or until a clearance certificate is issued</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"19\">\r\n<p> </p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"127\">\r\n<p><strong>Civil court judgments</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"383\">\r\n<p>Civil court judgments including default judgments</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"198\">\r\n<p>The earlier of 5 years or until the judgment is rescinded by a court or abandoned by the credit provider in terms of section 86 of Magistrates’ Court Act 32 of 1944 or within the period prescribed in section 71A of the Act</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"19\">\r\n<p> </p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"127\">\r\n<p><strong>Maintenance judgments in terms of the Maintenance Act</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"383\">\r\n<p>As per court judgment</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"198\">\r\n<p>Until the judgment is rescinded by a court</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"19\">\r\n<p> </p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"127\">\r\n<p><strong>Sequestration</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"383\">\r\n<p>As per the court order</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"198\">\r\n<p>5 years or until rehabilitation order is granted</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"19\">\r\n<p> </p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"127\">\r\n<p><strong>Rehabilitation</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"383\">\r\n<p>As per the court order</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"198\">\r\n<p>5 years</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"19\">\r\n<p> </p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"127\">\r\n<p><strong>Administration order</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"383\">\r\n<p>As per the court order</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"198\">\r\n<p>5 years or until order is rescinded by a court</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"19\">\r\n<p> </p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"127\">\r\n<p><strong>Liquidation</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"383\">\r\n<p>–</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"198\">\r\n<p>Removed - delete</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"19\">\r\n<p> </p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"127\">\r\n<p><strong>Other information</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"383\">\r\n<p>–</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td width=\"198\">\r\n<p>Removed - delete</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n</tbody>\r\n</table>\r\n<p>In conclusion, Ms. Kweyama advised the youth about the importance of maintaining a good / healthy credit report as this shows credit / service providers that you are making payments as per your credit agreements, depicting you as trustworthy for prospective credit/ service providers and employers.</p>\r\n<p><strong>Below are c</strong><strong>redit bureau and other important contact details:</strong></p>\r\n<table border=\"1\" width=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\">\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"104\"><br /> <strong>Experian</strong></td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"132\">\r\n<p>(011) 799-3400/ 0861 105 665</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"234\">\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.experian.co.za/\">www.experian.co.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"220\">\r\n<p><a href=\"mailto:consumer@creditexpert.co.za\">consumer@creditexpert.co.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"104\">\r\n<p><strong>TransUnion </strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"132\">\r\n<p>0861 886 466</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"234\">\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.transunion.co.za/\">www.transunion.co.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"220\">\r\n<p><a href=\"mailto:webadmin@transunion.co.za\">webadmin@transunion.co.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"104\">\r\n<p><strong>XDS</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"132\">\r\n<p>0860 937 000<br /> (011) 645-9100</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"234\">\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.xds.co.za/\">www.xds.co.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"220\">\r\n<p><a href=\"mailto:info@xds.co.za\">info@xds.co.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"104\">\r\n<p><strong>Consumer Profile Bureau      </strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"132\">\r\n<p>(010) 590-9505        </p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"234\">\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.consumerprofilebureau.com\">www.consumerprofilebureau.com</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"220\">\r\n<p><a href=\"mailto:support@cpbonline.co.za\">support@cpbonline.co.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td colspan=\"4\" valign=\"top\" width=\"690\">\r\n<p> </p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"104\">\r\n<p><strong>Credit Ombud</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"132\">\r\n<p>0861 662 837</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"234\">\r\n<p><a href=\"http://www.creditombud.org.za\">www.creditombud.org.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"220\">\r\n<p><a href=\"mailto:ombud@creditombud.org.za\">ombud@creditombud.org.za</a></p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"104\">\r\n<p><strong>National Credit Regulator</strong></p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"132\">\r\n<p>0860 627 627</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"234\">\r\n<p>www.ncr.org.za</p>\r\n</td>\r\n<td valign=\"top\" width=\"220\">\r\n<p>info@ncr.org.za</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n</tbody>\r\n</table>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Ends</strong>     </p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong><br /> The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established in terms of the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (the Act) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a> <br /> Or<br /> Didi Sebothoma<br /> 064 752 3910<br /> E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:dsebothoma@ncr.org.za\">dsebothoma@ncr.org.za</a> <br /> Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2022-07-01 14:42:22',915,'','2022-07-01 14:42:42',915,915,'2022-07-10 12:37:07','2022-07-01 14:42:22','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',2,10,'','',1,16935,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(129,286,'Debt counselling-a debt relief measure for over-indebted consumers ','debt-counselling-a-debt-relief-measure-for-over-indebted-consumers','<p align=\"right\"><strong> August 2022</strong></p>\r\n<p>Debt counselling was introduced by the National Credit Act as a voluntary debt relief measure to assist over-indebted consumers. A consumer is over-indebted if his/her income is not sufficient to cover all his/her living expenses and debt repayments. Various circumstances such as job loss, reduction of income, sickness, death, rising cost of living (petrol hikes, increase in food prices, electricity, etc.) and others are often the main contributors for consumer over-indebtedness. Consumers who are experiencing financial distress should not ignore their debt obligations, they need to approach credit providers and communicate their financial position and negotiate reasonable repayment options. If this attempt fails, consumers are encouraged to consider debt counselling and approach a registered debt counsellor who will on their behalf negotiate reasonable repayment terms informed by what the consumer can afford with the credit providers, says Adv. Kedilatile Legodi, Manager: Debt Counselling at the National Credit Regulator(NCR).</p>\r\n<p>The concept of debt counselling is often misunderstood by many, as a result consumers miss out on the benefits and the protection that debt counselling offer. In addition, there is a high number of false and misleading debt counselling marketing practices noted by the NCR either online, social media or telephonic with the sole intent of exploiting unsuspecting and financially distressed consumers. Some of these marketing practices, promise a certain percentage of debt reduction (even prior to a financial assessment), savings or consolidation. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is, warns Adv. Legodi.</p>\r\n<p>Consumers are advised to be aware of false and misleading practices and to not fall victim particularly if approached. Understanding the debt counselling process from end to end, the consequences, the applicable fees charged, when, where and how to pay such fees, the various steps of the process, the prescribed timelines, the provisions to exit debt counselling and others are important elements that the consumer must ensure knowledge of before signing on the dotted line.</p>\r\n<p>Debt counselling is only conducted by a debt counsellor registered with the NCR. In terms of the National Credit Act, debt counsellors are registered as individuals and not as a juristic person/company. Therefore, a financially distressed consumer seeking the services of a debt counsellor, must ensure that he/she knows the full details of the debt counsellor offering to assist. This includes the debt counsellors name and surname, place of practice and the NCR registration number which is issued upon registration by the NCR. Even if the debt counsellor is operating using a business/trading name, the consumer has a right to be provided this information. To verify the registration of a debt counsellor with the NCR, please visit <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a> or send an email to <a href=\"mailto:info@ncr.org.za\">info@ncr.org.za</a>.</p>\r\n<p>Adv. Legodi further provides clarity on the question that often comes up, when is a consumer under debt counselling? A consumer is considered to be under debt counselling when he/she has applied for debt counselling in a prescribed manner as set out in the National Credit Act. A duly completed and signed application form (referred to as Form 16) or a clear record of when the consumer furnished all information/documentation to the debt counsellor is used to prove that a consumer is under debt counselling. It is for this reason, that consumers are advised to ensure understanding of the debt counselling process before finalisation of the application. Consumers should not succumb to the pressure of signing the application if unsure. For a detailed explanation of the debt counselling process, consumers are advised to visit the NCR website at <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a> .</p>\r\n<p>Some important factors to consider:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>There is a difference between debt counselling and debt consolidation. Debt consolidation offers the consumer one loan to pay off all debts. This will result in the reduction of the consumer’s multiple payments into one single monthly payment to the credit provider that has granted the consolidation loan.</li>\r\n<li>If approached and offered debt counselling, insist on getting clarity from the caller regarding their source of information or where they received your contact details and do your homework first before you commit to what is being offered.</li>\r\n<li>Debt counselling does not cancel debt, it helps consumers to make reduced payments using disposable income and without having to borrow more money.</li>\r\n<li>If under debt counselling you will be paying reduced amounts, as a result the repayment period of your debt may increase and you will take longer to pay off your debts. However, you will still enjoy the legal protection against enforcement of debt by credit providers as long as you continue making payments as agreed.</li>\r\n<li>Debt counselling is not a savings plan, it is a measure intended to provide relief for over-indebted consumers. Anyone saying even if you are not over-indebted you can apply, please note that this is misleading and do not do any business with such an individual, they do not have your best intentions at heart.</li>\r\n<li>When under debt counselling, you cannot apply for further credit until you have repaid your debts and have been issued with a clearance certificate.</li>\r\n<li>If you apply for debt counselling, a debt counselling flag/indicator will be displayed on your credit profile at the credit bureau until a clearance certificate is issued by the debt counsellor.</li>\r\n<li>If you are married in community of property, you must jointly apply for debt counselling with your spouse.</li>\r\n<li>Debt counselling is not a free service–visit the NCR website on <a href=\"documents/debt%20counselling%20fee%20structure%20guideline.pdf\">the debt counselling fee guidelines 2018</a>  for a fee guideline and request a written disclosure of applicable fees prior to applying for debt counselling from your debt counsellor.</li>\r\n<li>Do not give/pay the debt counsellor money to pay your credit providers. You can either pay your credit providers directly or use a Payment Distribution Agent.</li>\r\n<li>If your debt counsellor is un-contactable, please contact the NCR immediately for assistance.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p> </p>\r\n<p>If consumers wish to lodge a complaint against a debt counsellor, credit provider, credit bureaus or a payment distribution agent they may send the complaint to <a href=\"mailto:complaints@ncr.org.za\">complaints@ncr.org.za</a>. To get a list of registered debt counsellors operating closer to work or residential area, consumers are advised to visit <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a>. Given the current economic climate, many consumers will undoubtedly find it difficult to cope and manage contractual repayments, please do not despair, be proactive, do not be pressurized, address your financial hardships by seeking more information on the debt counselling process and gain a thorough understanding because an informed consumer is a protected one, concludes Adv. Legodi.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>ENDS</strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong><br /> The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established as the regulator under the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (NCA) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information, contact:</strong><br /> Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a> <br /> Or<br /> Didi Sebothoma<br /> 064 752 3910<br /> E-mail: Didi Sebothoma:<br /> Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2022-08-10 12:50:16',915,'','2022-08-10 13:01:35',915,915,'2022-08-10 13:01:35','2022-08-10 12:50:16','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',3,9,'','',1,27830,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(130,287,'MSR Financial Solutions (Pty) Ltd and other credit providers flout the National Credit Act and deals with the consequences','msr-financial-solutions-pty-ltd-and-other-credit-providers-flout-the-national-credit-act-and-deals-with-the-consequences','<p align=\"right\"><strong>May 2022</strong></p>\r\n<p>The National Credit Regulator welcomes the judgement that was handed down by the National Consumer Tribunal (Tribunal) against MSR Financial Solutions (Pty) Ltd previously known as Major Authorised Debt Mediation (Pty) Ltd which entity is conducting its business in Bloemfontein, Free State region. This judgement follows an investigation by the National Credit Regulator into the conduct of the aforementioned entity. The investigation revealed that the entity was acting in a manner contrary to the provisions of the National Credit Act. “The National Credit Regulator subsequently referred an application to the Tribunal”, says Ms. Nomsa Motshegare, CEO of the National Credit Regulator.</p>\r\n<p>The National Credit Regulator’s investigation revealed that MSR Financial Solutions (Pty) Ltd previously known as Major Authorised Debt Mediation (Pty) Ltd informed to provide alternative dispute resolution services whilst it was not registered as an Alternative Dispute Resolution Agent with the National Credit Regulator. Motshegare explains that in terms of the National Credit Act, an entity providing the services of an Alternative Dispute Resolution Agent must register with the National Credit Regulator.</p>\r\n<p>“MSR Financial Solutions (Pty) Ltd previously known as Major Authorised Debt Mediation (Pty) Ltd also displayed the National Credit Regulator’s logo on its advertisements which gave the impression that the National Credit Regulator condoned its business practices which was never the case”, says Motshegare. “The services offered went beyond the scope of an Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents’ services and was akin to the services provided by a debt counsellor and a payment distribution agency”, adds Motshegare.  Consumers were effectively paying fees for an unlawful service and/or a service which they did not even receive. “The aforesaid conduct was found to be a serious prohibition and a contravention of Section 134A read with Section 1 and Regulation 10B of the Act” adds Motshegare.</p>\r\n<p>Furthermore to this, the entity was found to have contravened Section 44(2), 3(g) and Section 126A and 126(3) of the National Credit Act. The Tribunal imposed an administrative fine against the entity in the amount of R50 000.00 and amongst other orders ordered the entity to refund fees and costs to consumers.</p>\r\n<p>Motshegare alerts consumers of the aforesaid conduct observed within the credit market. It is imperative that consumers ensure that the entities they approach for Alternative Dispute Resolution services are in fact registered with the National Credit Regulator to provide such services. She also stressed that only a registered debt counsellor can make a determination of over-indebtedness. This clearly means that consumers should check if a person declaring them to be over-indebted is indeed registered with the National Credit Regulator by checking on the website <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a> or alternatively to call 0860 627 627.</p>\r\n<p>In other matters, the National Credit Regulator investigated and referred the following entities to the National Consumer Tribunal. The following credit providers were deregistered for committing various contraventions of the National Credit Act:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><strong>TITUSG TRADERS (PTY) LTD -</strong> a registered Credit Provider with registration number NCRCP9727 having its registered place of business at 2 Coleskop street, Rosedale, Upington, Northern Cape.</li>\r\n<li><strong>PANGOLIN LOANS (PTY) LTD</strong>, a registered Credit Provider with registration number NCRCP12222 having its registered place of business at Corso Building, Stand no 777 Luphisi, Sibuyile, Mpumalanga 1218.</li>\r\n<li><strong>DLAMINI ZAK ENTERPRISES (PTY) LTD</strong>, a registered Credit Provider with registration number NCRCP11532 having its registered place of business at 3097 Luvuyo Street, Kanana Extension 5, Rabie Ridge, Halfway House, Gauteng. </li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>Motshegare warns entities that are flouting the National Credit Act against such conduct as the National Credit Regulator will not hesitate to take action against such entities.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>ENDS</strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong><br /> The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established as the regulator under the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (NCA) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong><br /> Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a> <br /> Or<br /> Didi Sebothoma<br /> 064 752 3910<br /> E-mail: Didi Sebothoma: Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2022-09-13 11:21:35',915,'','2022-09-13 11:22:11',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2022-09-13 11:21:35','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',2,8,'','',1,24937,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(131,288,'Credit extension marginally slows down ','credit-extension-marginally-slows-down','<p align=\"right\"><strong>October 2022</strong></p>\r\n<p>Today, the National Credit Regulator (NCR) released the Consumer Credit Market Report (CCMR) and the Credit Bureau Monitor (CBM), which are based on data submitted by the registered credit providers and credit bureaus respectively. The latest edition of the reports covers credit market information from April 2022 to June 2022. The total value of new credit granted decreased by 1.13% quarter-on-quarter from R159.16 billion to R157.37 billion. The number of credit agreements entered into increased by 4.68% quarter-on-quarter from 3.83 million to 4.01 million.<br /> The following were some of the most significant trends observed in terms of credit granted for the quarter ended June 2022:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>The value of new mortgages granted increased by R1.80 billion (3.22%) quarter-on-quarter and by R916.13 million (1.62%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Secured credit which is dominated by vehicle finance, decreased by R2.27 billion (4.78%) quarter-on-quarter, and increased by R1.96 billion (4.55%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Credit facilities decreased by R441.79 million (1.79%) quarter-on-quarter and increased by R3.43 billion (16.47%) year-on year.</li>\r\n<li>Unsecured credit increased by R292.42 million (1.10%) quarter-on-quarter and by R4.53 billion (20.18%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>The total outstanding consumer credit balances (or gross debtors book) as at June 2022 was R2.19 trillion, representing an increase of 1.13% quarter-on-quarter and of 6.35% year-on-year. The trends for outstanding balances for the quarter ended June 2022 were as follows:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Mortgages debtors book increased by R18.00 billion (1.60%) quarter–on-quarter and by R82.19 billion (7.75%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Secured credit debtors book increased by R1.08 billion (0.23%) quarter-on-quarter and by R20.31 billion (4.42%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Credit facilities debtors book increased by R3.67 billion (1.30%) quarter-on-quarter and by R20.71 billion (7.79%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Unsecured credit debtors book increased by R2.30 billion (1.07%) quarter-on-quarter and by R6.13 billion (2.92%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>Credit bureaus held records for 26.52 million credit-active consumers, which showed an increase of 0.15% when compared to the 26.48 million in the previous quarter. Consumers classified in good standing increased by 197,993 to 16.63 million consumers. This amounts to 62.73% of the total number of credit-active consumers. The number of credit-active accounts increased from 84.73 million to 85.49 million in the quarter ended June 2022. The number of impaired accounts has decreased from 19.59 million (23.12%) to 19.26 million (22.53%) in June 2022, a decrease of 327,075 quarter-on-quarter and 598,021 year-on-year. <br /> Consumers are encouraged to exercise their consumer rights by getting their free credit reports from the registered credit bureaus. A credit report will outline the consumer’s debt and other financial obligations, thus making it easier to draft a budget and work towards the settlement of their debt, thereby improving the state of their credit reports and saving. Consumers who are experiencing financial difficulties and are battling with their debt repayments, should contact their credit providers for assistance. Avoiding credit providers when in distress is not a solution. In worst cases, the assistance of a registered debt counsellor must be sought. Debt counselling was introduced to assist consumers who are over-indebted, advised Nomsa Motshegare, CEO of the NCR.</p>\r\n<p><strong><em>Comparisons in this release- ‘quarter-on-quarter’ refers to a comparison between the March 2022 and June 2022 quarters, and ‘year-on-year’ refers to a comparison between the June 2021 and June 2022</em></strong><strong>.</strong></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>ENDS</strong> </p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong><br /> The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established in terms of the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (the Act) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Or</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Didi Sebothoma<br /> 064 752 3910<br /> E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:dsebothoma@ncr.org.za\">dsebothoma@ncr.org.za</a> <br /> Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2022-10-05 15:33:47',915,'','2022-10-05 15:33:47',0,915,'2022-10-05 15:33:47','2022-10-05 15:33:47','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',1,7,'','',1,23227,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(132,289,'Don’t let Black Friday lead to a Blacklisting! ','don-t-let-black-friday-lead-to-a-blacklisting','<p align=\"right\"><strong>November 2022</strong></p>\r\n<p>While South African household incomes are tightly squeezed by high interest rates and the ever rising cost of living, many consumers are still looking forward to bag a bargain with Black Friday sales and discounts. Since 2019, Black Friday has become staggeringly popular in South Africa with retailers slashing prices items instore as well as online. However, it is very important for consumers to avoid the hype generated around Black Friday and it does not necessarily mean that every item on sale is a Black Friday bargain.</p>\r\n<p>Education and Communication Manager at the National Credit Regulator (NCR), Ms Poppy Kweyama said, “Although it may make sense to take advantage of Black Friday sales and discounts to save money, beware that unplanned purchases driven by excitement, impulse buying and the fear of missing on bargains sometimes make it much more tempting to buy on credit when you haven’t budgeted and don’t have cash. Irresponsible use of credit is not only expensive, but risky as well. If one takes into account the interest and fees on the credit – it makes the purchase more expensive, so you are not actually saving any money. Taking credit unnecessarily also becomes risky when you are unable to pay back the debt and default on the credit agreement. Don’t let Black Friday lead to a blacklisting.”</p>\r\n<p>Ms Kweyama added, “Buying on credit may be a convenient way of accessing goods and services that you want right now, but sometimes it is worth waiting until your personal finances improve and you can save towards the purchase. Black Friday does not mean you must buy. Some items will be available on sale and discounts at other times or during or after the festive season.” </p>\r\n<p>In addition, she also gave practical tips on how to avoid being a victim of the Black Friday hype:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Do your research: Once you know exactly what you want to buy, compare different stores to get the best deals. It may sound tedious but can save you money;</li>\r\n<li>Create a budget and stick to it: Budgeting always helps to control your spending;</li>\r\n<li>Avoid impulsive buying: List all items you intend to buy. Do not buy something that you don’t need;</li>\r\n<li>Beware of costs and risks associated with online shopping: Normally, online shopping needs credit/debit card details which may not only carry additional costs but may expose you to the risk of cybercrime;</li>\r\n<li>Do not spend more than you can afford: Irresponsible use of credit may lead to excessive debt and blacklisting at the credit bureaus which will damage your credit profile.</li>\r\n<li>If you are prone to impulse buying or are ill-disciplined stay at home! Do not go to shopping malls and stay offline.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>“Avoid succumbing to Black Friday hype. Spend Wisely if you have budgeted. Borrow Wisely if you need a big ticket item or have to make an emergency purchase that is nicely discounted. Whatever you do Be Credit Smart.” concludes Ms Kweyama.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>ENDS</strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong></p>\r\n<p>The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established as the regulator under the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (NCA) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Or</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Didi Sebothoma</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">064 752 3910</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">E-mail: Didi Sebothoma:</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2022-11-17 14:15:42',915,'','2022-11-17 14:21:37',915,915,'2022-11-17 14:21:37','2022-11-17 14:15:42','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',3,6,'','',1,17896,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(133,290,'Spend wisely during festive season','spend-wisely-during-festive-season','<p align=\"right\"><strong>December 2020</strong></p>\r\n<p>“There is no doubt that consumers spend a lot more during festive season than they would normally during the year, on gifts, food, entertainment, travel, events, spoiling loved one’s etc. While the festive season comes every year and consumers have ample time to plan well in advance, it is unfortunate that many consumers do not plan properly and in the end succumb to the temptation of overspending, using credit cards, bank overdrafts or taking loans to fund festive spending,” said Ms Poppy Kweyama, Manager of Education and Communication at the National Credit Regulator (NCR).</p>\r\n<p> “With ever increasing cost of living including increased interest rates, consumers need to be financially savvy and, make tough but necessary decisions to scale down on festive spending this year. Sometimes it is worth waiting rather than impulsively using credit to buy non-essential items which would only bring misery. In making festive purchases, consumers should always distinguish between the needs and wants. Otherwise, it means you will begin the New Year with more debts than you intended and ended up being saddled with regrets. Make the most of your money,” she advises.</p>\r\n<p> On the flip side, If you happen to be one of the lucky ones receiving year-end bonuses and/or 13<sup>th</sup> cheques, spend it wisely. Always remember the golden rule, pay off your debt first!,” urges Ms Kweyama. “Although it is a bit difficult to define how consumers should spend their year-end bonuses and 13<sup>th</sup> cheques, if used wisely, it could be just the ticket to start your new year debt free and on the path to a soft life. Even if you don’t earn the big bucks or receive bonuses, be credit smart and prioritise paying your debt so that you can reduce your debt and start saving more. Ideally, start paying off the debt with higher interest rates like credit cards, personal loans etc. By so doing, you’re freeing up cash to acquire other valuable assets or build up an egg nest, and if you are lucky enough to be debt free - consider saving or investing your money”, adds Kweyama.</p>\r\n<p> However, If you decide to make purchases using credit, read and understand the full cost of credit including the terms and conditions of the credit agreement. When applying for credit on social media platforms, beware of sophisticated scammers posing as legitimate credit providers demanding and putting pressure on consumers to make immediate payment of an upfront fee before releasing the “money” you are borrowing. Never, ever pay any upfront fees no matter what!</p>\r\n<p><strong>Here are practical tips on how to minimize spending during festive season: </strong></p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Plan and save for festive season ahead of time;</li>\r\n<li>Pay off existing debt first;</li>\r\n<li>Don’t spend money on a “soft” lavish lifestyle to impress others;</li>\r\n<li>Do not replace presence with presents;</li>\r\n<li>Create a festive season budget which is aligned to available funds and stick to it;</li>\r\n<li>Compare prices between different retail stores;</li>\r\n<li>Don’t use credit for consumables like food, alcohol and airtime;</li>\r\n<li>Beware of scams if you decide to shop online;</li>\r\n<li>Save money for January expenses; and</li>\r\n<li>Live within your means during festive season.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p> Those struggling to keep up with monthly repayment of bills should avoid taking more credit just for few a weeks during festive season. The reality is that festive season is the most wonderful leisure time of the year to relax and unwind with families, beloved ones and friends, but there is still life after festive season. Do not let soft life during festive season lead you to a blacklisting in 2023, concludes Kweyama.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Ends</strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong></p>\r\n<p>The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established in terms of the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (the Act) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong> </p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a></p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Or</p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Didi Sebothoma</p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">064 752 3910</p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:dsebothoma@ncr.org.za\">dsebothoma@ncr.org.za</a></p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Website: <a href=\"https://www.ncr.org.za/\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2022-12-13 16:08:27',915,'','2022-12-13 16:10:58',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2022-12-13 16:08:27','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',3,5,'','',1,16205,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(134,292,'NCR ONBOURDING TECHSPRINT','techsprint','<p><a href=\"https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEuceuuqzwjGtXkgC6iy6DGX-sZuMgx4Doc#/registration\"><img style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" src=\"images/TechSprint -Briefing Header Banner.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" /></a></p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=\"documents/Media Release- TechSprint Briefing.pdf\">click here</a> to download <strong>TechSprint Briefing Media Release</strong></li>\r\n<li><a href=\"documents/TechSprint Briefing -INVITATION.pdf\">click here</a> to download <strong>TechSprint Briefing invitation</strong></li>\r\n<li><a href=\"documents/NCR Onboarding TechSprint - Roundtables Report FORENOTE.pdf\">click here</a> to download the TechSprint Stakeholder Round Table Report.</li>\r\n<li><a href=\"documents/NCR_Onboarding_TechSprint-Stakeholders_Roundtables Report_FINAL.pdf\">click here</a> to download the TechSprint Roundtables Report on Findings of industry Roundtable Engagements.</li>\r\n<li><a href=\"documents/NCR Onboarding TechSprint - Roundtables Report FORENOTE.pdf\">click here</a> to download the techsprint: report on findings of industry roundtable engagements</li>\r\n<li><a href=\"documents/NCR Onboarding TechSprint Roundtables_Report_FINAL.pptx.pdf\">click here</a> to download the Techsprint: leveraging technological innovation to improve the resilience and compliance of small credit providers</li>\r\n<li><a href=\"documents/NCR Roundtable S1 Email Invite - Final (002)-signed..pdf\">click here</a> to download the Pre-TechSprint Roundtable Discussion - small credit providers</li>\r\n<li><a href=\"documents/NCR Roundtable S2 Email Invite - Final-signed..pdf\">click here</a> to download the Pre-TechSprint Roundtable Discussion - large credit providers</li>\r\n</ul>','',1,20,'2022-12-15 14:39:25',915,'','2023-08-29 08:32:51',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2022-12-15 14:39:25','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',19,2,'','',1,9903,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(135,293,'Borrow Wisely. T’s and C’s apply!','borrow-wisely-t-s-and-c-s-apply','<p align=\"right\"><strong>January 2023</strong></p>\r\n<p>“Excessive spending during festive season, places pressure on household disposable income, making the new year not so prosperous. The sad reality is that not everyone is beginning the new season debt free. Some are already in a state of financial distress after acquiring more debt pre- or/during the festive season. For them to meet basic necessities they had to borrow money to stay afloat. And if indeed borrowing is the only solution suitable to your personal circumstances, borrow wisely and responsibly!” said Ms Kweyama, Manager: Education and Communication at the National Credit Regulator (NCR).</p>\r\n<p>Ms Kweyama added that borrowing wisely and responsibly mean consumers should ensure that they only borrow what they need and can afford to pay back in full, and within the stipulated timeframe. Although the National Credit Act (NCA) dictates that credit providers must conduct an affordability assessment to determine if a consumer qualifies for credit, a responsible and honest consumer must fully and truthfully disclose information on all his/ her financial obligations, in particular income and expenditure to enable the credit provider to conduct accurate affordability assessment.</p>\r\n<p>She warned, “Unfortunately in many instances when consumers realise that when they honestly disclose their expenses, they would not be eligible for credit, they tend to understate their expenditure and overstate their income in order to qualify. As a result, they</p>\r\n<p>find themselves in huge amounts of debt – which they are unlikely to repay at all or repay on time”.</p>\r\n<p>Another popular method of accessing short term credit quickly is pawning valuable items like furniture, jewellery, vehicles, etc. in exchange for cash. The pawnbrokers hold assets as security and in most cases, consumers are given a short-term to repay the loan in full. However, should one default on the repayment, pawnbrokers can sell their assets to recoup the money loaned to them. Before signing on the dotted line, ensure that you understand the terms and conditions of a pawn transaction, because very often the interest rates charged are quite high and most pawnbrokers do not disclose fees like storage, insurance, etc. upfront.</p>\r\n<p>Desperation also compels some consumers to seek credit from loan sharks or “mashonisa”- despite many warnings about their unlawful practices. Most “mashonisas”, like some pawnbrokers, are not registered with the NCR. Their modus operandi include retaining consumers’ bank cards, pin codes and identity cards to collect on the loans. Remember, it is illegal for a “mashonisa” or pawnbroker to retain your personal documents. Report this to the South African Police Services and the NCR.</p>\r\n<p>Important considerations before applying for credit:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Take an amount of credit that you need and you can afford to repay;</li>\r\n<li>If you can, pay cash rather than take credit;</li>\r\n<li>Borrow only from registered credit providers;</li>\r\n<li>Understand the terms and conditions of a credit agreement;</li>\r\n<li>Never leave your bank/SASSA card, pin code, identity document with a credit provider; and</li>\r\n<li>If you need a loan, do not pay any upfront</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>“Borrowing and pawning are expensive and consumers should be careful not to take more than they can afford to pay back as this can often lead to serious financial woes. “Always</p>\r\n<p>keep in mind that when interest rates are increased by the South African Reserve Bank , this is passed on to consumers by credit providers and increases your monthly instalments” concludes Kweyama.</p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Ends</strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p><strong>About</strong> <strong>The National Credit Regulator</strong></p>\r\n<p>The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established in terms of the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (the Act) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong></p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a></p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Or</p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Winnie Rabathata 064 752 392 or Didi Sebothoma 0647523910</p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:wrabathata@ncr.org.za\">wrabathata@ncr.org.za</a> or <a href=\"mailto:dsebothoma@ncr.org.za\">dsebothoma@ncr.org.za</a></p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za/\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2023-01-19 06:48:16',915,'','2023-01-19 06:49:16',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2023-01-19 06:48:16','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',2,4,'','',1,15062,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(136,294,'Article','article','<p><a href=\"documents/230525%20article%20no%204%20Registration%20of%20Credit%20providers%20rmcp%20pcc53.pdf\">Credit providers: register with the financial intelligence centre</a></p>','',1,20,'2023-06-06 15:16:16',915,'','2023-06-06 15:22:59',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2023-06-06 15:16:16','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',3,0,'','',1,2972,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(137,295,'Investigations in the Cape Town','investigations-in-the-cape-town','<p align=\"right\"><strong>August 2023</strong></p>\r\n<p>In the past week, the National Credit Regular (“NCR”) embarked on investigations against Debt Counsellors in the Cape Town area following the receipt of numerous complaints of non-compliance with the National Credit Act, 34 of 2005 (“the Act”).</p>\r\n<p>Following resistance, threats, and non-cooperation by certain registrants and/or entities which actions prevented the NCR’s inspector’s from conducting onsite investigations, the NCR requested the assistance of the South African Police Services (“SAPS”) in certain instances.</p>\r\n<p>“In the event that the SAPS is involved, the SAPS may find cause to further investigate allegations by consumers claiming to have been placed under debt review without their consent as such conduct amounts to fraud” says Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) of the NCR, Ms Nomsa Motshegare.</p>\r\n<p>The NCR’s inspectors are duly appointed by the CEO of the NCR in terms of Section 25 of the Act to conduct investigations into alleged contraventions of the Act.</p>\r\n<p>Inspectors are to be allowed to enter the premises of registrants or any entity or individual against whom a complaint has been initiated and from where activities are performed and/or services rendered at any time during an entity’s normal business hours to conduct the investigation. Furthermore, apart from being a contravention in terms of the Act and Conditions of registration, it is an offence in terms of Section 160 of the Act to hinder the administration of the Act, which includes, but is not limited to, obstructing Inspectors of the NCR from exercising their powers or performing their duties delegated to them in terms of Section 25 of the Act. </p>\r\n<p>Should there be any doubt or hesitance pertaining the identity of the inspectors, registrants may first engage the NCR directly by way of telephone and email. Such verifications will however not result in a postponement of the investigation.</p>\r\n<p>Individuals and entities are warned that the NCR will not hesitate to invoke all the necessary actions and powers stipulated within the Act, to enable it to discharge its regulatory mandate.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>ENDS</strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong><br /> The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established as the regulator under the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (NCA) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong><br /> Winnie Rabathata 064 752 3923<br /> Or<br /> Media Office: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a></p>','',1,8,'2023-08-21 15:01:02',915,'','2023-08-21 15:12:38',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2023-08-21 15:01:02','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',2,3,'','',1,6890,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(138,296,'sprint test','sprint-test','<p><a href=\"https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEuceuuqzwjGtXkgC6iy6DGX-sZuMgx4Doc#/registration\"><img style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" src=\"images/TechSprint -Briefing Header Banner.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" /></a></p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=\"documents/Media Release- TechSprint Briefing.pdf\">click here</a> to download <strong>TechSprint Briefing Media Release</strong></li>\r\n<li><a href=\"documents/TechSprint Briefing -INVITATION.pdf\">click here</a> to download <strong>TechSprint Briefing invitation</strong></li>\r\n<li><a href=\"documents/NCR Onboarding TechSprint - Roundtables Report FORENOTE.pdf\">click here</a> to download the TechSprint Stakeholder Round Table Report.</li>\r\n<li><a href=\"documents/NCR_Onboarding_TechSprint-Stakeholders_Roundtables Report_FINAL.pdf\">click here</a> to download the TechSprint Roundtables Report on Findings of industry Roundtable Engagements.</li>\r\n<li><a href=\"documents/NCR Onboarding TechSprint - Roundtables Report FORENOTE.pdf\">click here</a> to download the techsprint: report on findings of industry roundtable engagements</li>\r\n<li><a href=\"documents/NCR Onboarding TechSprint Roundtables_Report_FINAL.pptx.pdf\">click here</a> to download the Techsprint: leveraging technological innovation to improve the resilience and compliance of small credit providers</li>\r\n<li><a href=\"documents/NCR Roundtable S1 Email Invite - Final (002)-signed..pdf\">click here</a> to download the Pre-TechSprint Roundtable Discussion - small credit providers</li>\r\n<li><a href=\"documents/NCR Roundtable S2 Email Invite - Final-signed..pdf\">click here</a> to download the Pre-TechSprint Roundtable Discussion - large credit providers</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p> </p>','',1,2,'2023-08-29 09:37:47',915,'','2023-08-29 09:39:20',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2023-08-29 09:37:47','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',2,1,'','',1,121,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(139,297,'National Credit Regulator and IFC announce Tech Competition to Empower  Small Credit Providers in South Africa','national-credit-regulator-and-ifc-announce-tech-competition-to-empower-small-credit-providers-in-south-africa','<p align=\"right\"><strong>September 2023</strong></p>\r\n<p>The National Credit Regulator (NCR), in partnership with the Government of Japan and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), have come together to launch an innovative TechSprint competition (also known as the Hackathon) designed to support the digitisation and regulatory compliance of small credit providers in South Africa.</p>\r\n<p>The initiative will incorporate a virtual TechSprint and subsequent Showcase event, engaging software developers and technology teams to create robust and affordable solutions for small credit providers, ultimately promoting financial inclusion for underserved borrowers.</p>\r\n<p>In the virtual TechSprint (Hackathon), taking place from 16 to 20 October 2023, Tech teams will enter a hackathon to build a prototype solution addressing the issue at hand. Winners will be announced on the Demo Day scheduled for 20 October 2023. Once the winners are selected, a Solution Showcase event will take place on 24 October 2023 in which the winning tech teams will virtually present their solutions to the credit industry. Applications for the virtual TechSprint (Hackathon) event are open and Tech teams have until 19 September 2023 to enter.</p>\r\n<p>Small credit providers play a crucial role in the South African financial ecosystem, serving the base of the pyramid and the last mile. However, many of these credit providers face challenges in complying with Regulation 19(13) of the National Credit Act (NCA), which prescribes how credit providers must submit credit information to a credit bureau.</p>\r\n<p>The TechSprint and Showcase events aim to address these issues by leveraging technological innovation to improve the resilience and compliance of small credit providers. Participating teams will have 3-4 days to build prototype solutions, with support from experts and the project team. A demo day will follow on 20 October 2023, during which teams would present their prototypes to a panel of judges, who would select the winning team(s) based on predefined criteria. The TechSprint winners will then be supported by an incubation programme to take their solution to market and start bridging the gap for small credit providers.</p>\r\n<p>First prize is R100,000 cash with a 3-month incubation programme worth R65,000. The runners up for second and third places, would receive R60,000 and R40,000, respectively.</p>\r\n<p>“Through this initiative, we want to drive economic growth by providing essential financial services to those who would otherwise be excluded from the formal financial sector. Together with our partners in this project we had to find a solution to enhance credit visibility for borrowers, reduce the potential for over-indebtedness, provide more accurate data for regulatory purposes, and lower compliance burden. We can’t wait to see how these Tech teams make compliance more affordable and accessible.” said the NCR Chief Executive Officer, Nomsa Motshegare.</p>\r\n<p> </p>\r\n<p>To participate, teams must demonstrate their ability to create solutions that address the following key elements:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><strong>Resilience</strong>: Enable digital on-boarding and credit extension by small credit providers to underserved markets.</li>\r\n<li><strong>Compliance:</strong> Ensure effective participation in information sharing, submission, and regulatory reporting.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>The TechSprint (Hackathon) competition is open to software developers, technology teams, and other interested parties with the capacity and capability to develop innovative tech solutions. Participants must be available during the TechSprint dates.</p>\r\n<p>If you and your team think you have what it takes to win, registrations are now open for the virtual TechSprint and Showcase events until 19 September 2023:</p>\r\n<p><strong>Registration for the Techsprint:</strong> <a href=\"https://forms.gle/3oqDZu8zBDxdfNkT8\">https://forms.gle/3oqDZu8zBDxdfNkT8</a></p>\r\n<p><strong>Registration for the Showcase:</strong> <a href=\"https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fprotect-za.mimecast.com%2Fs%2FNsQ2CJZXX4FYERJFGOqsn&amp;data=05%7C01%7Cjmbaloyi%40ncr.org.za%7C6020081513ee47ec2a8308dbb29b5ec9%7C9c24d5180d3b43368040f585907bddb2%7C0%7C0%7C638300152727834819%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=MrkujxtNwuWPzafZs%2Fovn404%2FLwAKB9jEpU7VrGSuJI%3D&amp;reserved=0\">https://forms.gle/P7aLnZk1Qog3bQir5</a></p>\r\n<p>To learn more about the NCR Onboarding TechSprint visit <a href=\"index.php/publications/techsprint\">https://www.ncr.org.za/index.php/publications/techsprint</a> for more information.</p>\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator (NCR)</strong></p>\r\n<p>The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established in terms of the National Credit Act, (NCA) 2005 (Act 34 of 2005)) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the NCA. The NCR offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible, and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p><strong>About International Finance Corporation (IFC)</strong></p>\r\n<p>The International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank, is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. We work in more than 100 countries, using our capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries. In fiscal year 2023, IFC committed a record $43.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging the power of the private sector to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity as economies grapple with the impacts of global compounding crises. For more information, visit <a href=\"http://www.ifc.org\">www.ifc.org</a>.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>Ends</strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information contact: </strong></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Jacqueline Baloyi<br /> National Credit Regulator (NCR)<br /> Phone: +27 64 752 3920<br /> E-mail: <a href=\"mailto:media@ncr.org.za\">media@ncr.org.za</a> <br /> Website: <a href=\"http://www.ncr.org.za\">www.ncr.org.za</a></p>','',0,8,'2023-09-14 15:25:49',915,'','2023-11-08 10:29:00',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2023-09-14 15:25:49','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',3,2,'','',1,5100,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(140,298,'Credit Extension slows down while impairments worsen. ','credit-extension-slows-down-while-impairments-worsen','<p align=\"right\"><strong> October 2023</strong></p>\r\n<p>Today, the National Credit Regulator (NCR) released the Consumer Credit Market Report (CCMR) and the Credit Bureau Monitor (CBM), which are based on data submitted by the registered credit providers and credit bureaus respectively. The latest edition of the reports covers credit market information from April 2023 to June 2023. The total value of new credit granted increased by 0.15% quarter-on-quarter from R141.78 billion to R141.99 billion. The number of credit agreements entered-into increased by 6.66% quarter-on-quarter from 3.79 million to 4.04 million.<br /> The following were some of the most significant trends observed in terms of credit granted for the quarter ended June 2023:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>The value of new mortgages granted increased by R2. 75 billion (6.09%) quarter-on-quarter and decreased by R9.69 billion (16. 85%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Secured credit, which is dominated by vehicle finance, decreased by R480.03billion (1.06%) quarter-on-quarter, and by R153.55 million (0.34%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Credit facilities decreased by R1.14 billion (4.80%) quarter-on-quarter and by R1.66 billion (6.85%) year-on year.</li>\r\n<li>Unsecured credit decreased by R354.87 million (1.53%) quarter-on-quarter, and by R4.08 billion (15.14%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Short-term credit increased by R235.09 million (11.14%) quarter-on-quarter and by R156.06 million (7.13%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>The total outstanding consumer credit balances (or gross debtor’s book) as at June 2023 was R2.31 trillion, representing an increase of 0.74% quarter-on-quarter and by 5.81% year-on-year. The trends for outstanding balances for the quarter ended June 2023 were as follows:</p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Mortgages debtors book increased by R8. 62 billion (0. 72%) quarter–on-quarter and by R64.58 billion (5.65%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Secured credit debtors book increased by R3.02 billion (0.61%) quarter-on-quarter and by R22.03 billion (4.59%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Credit facilities debtors book increased by R5. 40 billion (1.73%) quarter-on-quarter and by R30.97 billion (10.81%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Unsecured credit debtors book decreased by R910.18 million (0.41%) quarter-on-quarter and increased by R5.26 billion (2.43%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n<li>Short-term credit debtors book increased by R106.08 million (5.07%) quarter-on-quarter and by R339.78 million (18.27%) year-on-year.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>Credit bureaus held records for 27.05 million credit-active consumers, which was a decrease of 0.05% when compared to the 27.07 million in the previous quarter. Consumers classified in good standing decreased by 215,482 to 17.03 million. This amounts to 62.95% of the total number of credit-active consumers. The number of credit-active accounts decreased from 90.44 million to 90.21 million in the quarter ended June 2023. The number of impaired accounts has increased from 19.13 million (21.15%) to 19.29 million (21.38%) in June 2023, an increase of 158 725 quarter-on-quarter and 26 685year-on-year.</p>\r\n<p>The interest rate cycle has been on an upward swing placing consumer’s payment obligations under severe financial pressure as a result of increased debt re-payment installments. The NCR urges consumers to plan and monitor their spending by drawing up a monthly budget and making shopping lists to manage their expenses. The NCR encourages consumers battling with debt repayments to contact their credit providers for assistance with payment re-arrangements. Consumers must not avoid credit providers when in distress.</p>\r\n<p>In the worst-case scenario, consumers are urged to contact their nearest registered debt counsellors to seek help. Debt counselling is intended to assist consumers who are over-indebted. Over-indebtedness is a state where the consumer ‘s income is not sufficient to cover all financial obligations and living expenses. A registered debt counsellor should be able to assist the consumer with budget advice and debt restructuring, says Mr Ngoako Mabeba, the Statistics and Research Manager at the NCR.</p>\r\n<p><strong><em>Comparisons in this release- ‘quarter-on-quarter’ refers to a comparison between the March 2023 and June 2023 quarters, and ‘year-on-year’ refers to a comparison between the June 2022 and June 2023 quarters</em></strong><strong>.</strong></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>ENDS</strong></p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator</strong><br /> The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established as the regulator under the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (NCA) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the National Credit Act as amended. The National Credit Regulator offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible and dynamic.</p>','',1,8,'2023-10-05 15:52:33',915,'','2023-10-05 15:52:33',0,915,'2023-10-05 15:52:33','2023-10-05 15:52:33','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',1,1,'','',1,6204,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(141,299,'NCR and IFC Tech Competition Fosters Financial Inclusion and Empowers                     Small Credit Providers in South Africa','ncr-and-ifc-tech-competition-fosters-financial-inclusion-and-empowers-small-credit-providers-in-south-africa','<p align=\"right\"><strong>October 2023</strong></p>\r\n<p>The National Credit Regulator (NCR) and the IFC - International Finance Corporation have come together to bring about an innovative competition aimed at supporting the digitisation and regulatory compliance of small credit providers in South Africa.</p>\r\n<p>The initiative will incorporate a TechSprint and subsequent Showcase event, engaging software developers and technology teams to create robust, cost-effective solutions and showcase ready to be introduced to the market solutions. These solutions are specifically targeted towards small credit providers, with the ultimate objective of enhancing financial inclusion for underserved borrowers.</p>\r\n<p>The two events aim to leverage technological innovation to improve the resilience and compliance of small credit providers. The TechSprint week, also referred to as the Hackathon, will take place from 16 to 19 October 2023. Participating teams will have four days to build prototype solutions, with support from industry experts who will provide valuable insights to the participating team.</p>\r\n<p>A demo day will follow on 20 October 2023, where the tech teams will present their prototypes to a panel of judges. At the end of the presentation, winners will be announced, with the prize that includes an incubation programme aimed at assisting the winner to take their solution to market.</p>\r\n<p>The Showcase event will take place on 24 October 2023 where tech companies will Showcase their existing solution geared on improving resilience, inclusion, and compliance with the National Credit Act (NCA).</p>\r\n<p>Small credit providers play a significant role within the South African financial ecosystem, serving the base of the pyramid and the last mile, “many of these providers encounter challenges in complying with Regulation 19 (13) of the (NCA), which prescribes the requirement for credit providers when submitting credit information to a credit bureau. This barrier in many cases serves as a limitation for individuals from participating in and contributing to the expansion of the national economy. With the support of our partners, the NCR had to find innovative ways to solve these challenges” the NCR Chief Executive Officer, Nomsa Motshegare said To learn more about the NCR Onboarding TechSprint and Showcase visit: <a href=\"https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncr.org.za%2Findex.php%2Fpublications%2Ftechsprint&amp;data=05%7C01%7CPTlabela%40ncr.org.za%7C1d5577f8f936451aa2a208dbcdc49821%7C9c24d5180d3b43368040f585907bddb2%7C0%7C0%7C638330016484400105%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=1hX577D8yWAtgI0zfTVYyrh%2BNAP95s0cOcBLDQn6l%2BA%3D&amp;reserved=0\">https://www.ncr.org.za/index.php/publications/techsprint </a>for more information.</p>\r\n<p><strong>About The National Credit Regulator (NCR)</strong></p>\r\n<p>The National Credit Regulator (NCR) was established in terms of the National Credit Act, (NCA) 2005 (Act 34 of 2005)) and is responsible for the regulation of the South African credit industry. The NCR is mandated with the registration of Credit Providers, Credit Bureaus, Debt Counsellors, Payment Distribution Agents, Alternative Dispute Resolution Agents; and monitoring their conduct in compliance with the NCA. The NCR offers education and protection to consumers of credit in promotion of a South African credit market that is fair, transparent, accessible, and dynamic.</p>\r\n<p><strong>About International Finance Corporation (IFC)</strong></p>\r\n<p>The International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank, is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. We work in more than 100 countries, using our capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries. In fiscal year 2023, IFC committed a record $43.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging the power of the private sector to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity as economies grapple with the impacts of global compounding crises. For more information, visit <a href=\"https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ifc.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CPTlabela%40ncr.org.za%7C1d5577f8f936451aa2a208dbcdc49821%7C9c24d5180d3b43368040f585907bddb2%7C0%7C0%7C638330016484400105%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=9xRRH3iOVwLD4OnOOqsGRTGwB%2FxgUjHJiJcVBUOCYUg%3D&amp;reserved=0\">www.ifc.org</a>.</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Ends</p>\r\n<hr />\r\n<p align=\"center\"><strong>For more information contact:</strong></p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">Jacqueline Baloyi<br /> National Credit Regulator (NCR) Phone: +27 64 752 3920<br /> E-mail: techsprint@ncr.org.za Website: www.ncr.org.za</p>\r\n<p align=\"center\">For interviews contact:<br /> Winnie Rabathata<br /> National Credit Regulator (NCR) Phone: +27 64 752 3923<br /> E-mail: media@ncr.org.za Website: www.ncr.org.za</p>','',1,8,'2023-10-16 15:44:12',915,'','2023-11-08 10:30:27',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2023-10-16 15:44:12','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',3,0,'','',1,5784,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*',''),(142,300,'Black Friday recordings','ncr-black-friday','<table border=\"0\" width=\"100%\" cellspacing=\"10\" cellpadding=\"10\">\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr align=\"center\">\r\n<td><strong> NCR - Black Friday - Afrikaans</strong></td>\r\n<td><strong>NCR - Black Friday - English</strong></td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr align=\"center\">\r\n<td><a href=\"documents/videos/NCR - Black Friday - Afrikaans.mp3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img src=\"documents/videos/black_friday_2023.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"295\" height=\"180\" /><br />Click to view </a></td>\r\n<td><a href=\"documents/videos/NCR - Black Friday - English.mp3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img src=\"documents/videos/black_friday_2023.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"295\" height=\"180\" /><br />Click to view </a></td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td colspan=\"2\"><hr /></td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr align=\"center\">\r\n<td><strong> NCR - Black Friday - Ndebele</strong></td>\r\n<td><strong>NCR - Black Friday - Sepedi</strong></td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr align=\"center\">\r\n<td><a href=\"documents/videos/NCR - Black Friday - Ndebele.mp3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img src=\"documents/videos/black_friday_2023.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"295\" height=\"180\" /><br />Click to view </a></td>\r\n<td><a href=\"documents/videos/NCR - Black Friday - Sepedi.mp3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img src=\"documents/videos/black_friday_2023.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"295\" height=\"180\" /><br />Click to view </a></td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td colspan=\"2\"><hr /></td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr align=\"center\">\r\n<td><strong> NCR - Black Friday - Sesotho</strong></td>\r\n<td><strong>NCR - Black Friday - Swati</strong></td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr align=\"center\">\r\n<td><a href=\"documents/videos/NCR - Black Friday - Sesotho.mp3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img src=\"documents/videos/black_friday_2023.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"295\" height=\"180\" /><br />Click to view </a></td>\r\n<td><a href=\"documents/videos/NCR - Black Friday - Swati.mp3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img src=\"documents/videos/black_friday_2023.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"295\" height=\"180\" /><br />Click to view </a></td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td colspan=\"2\"><hr /></td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr align=\"center\">\r\n<td><strong> NCR - Black Friday - Tsonga</strong></td>\r\n<td><strong>NCR - Black Friday - Tswana</strong></td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr align=\"center\">\r\n<td><a href=\"documents/videos/NCR - Black Friday - Tsonga.mp3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img src=\"documents/videos/black_friday_2023.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"295\" height=\"180\" /><br />Click to view </a></td>\r\n<td><a href=\"documents/videos/NCR - Black Friday - Tswana.mp3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img src=\"documents/videos/black_friday_2023.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"295\" height=\"180\" /><br />Click to view </a></td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td colspan=\"2\"><hr /></td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr align=\"center\">\r\n<td><strong> NCR - Black Friday - Venda</strong></td>\r\n<td><strong>NCR - Black Friday - Xhosa</strong></td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr align=\"center\">\r\n<td><a href=\"documents/videos/NCR - Black Friday - Venda.mp3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img src=\"documents/videos/black_friday_2023.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"295\" height=\"180\" /><br />Click to view </a></td>\r\n<td><a href=\"documents/videos/NCR - Black Friday - Xhosa.mp3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img src=\"documents/videos/black_friday_2023.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"295\" height=\"180\" /><br />Click to view </a></td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td colspan=\"2\"><hr /></td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr align=\"center\">\r\n<td><strong> NCR - Black Friday - Zulu</strong></td>\r\n<td> </td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr align=\"center\">\r\n<td><a href=\"documents/videos/NCR - Black Friday - Zulu.mp3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img src=\"documents/videos/black_friday_2023.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"295\" height=\"180\" /><br />Click to view </a></td>\r\n<td> </td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td colspan=\"2\"><hr /></td>\r\n</tr>\r\n</tbody>\r\n</table>','',1,17,'2023-11-21 15:34:45',915,'','2023-11-21 16:32:14',915,0,'0000-00-00 00:00:00','2023-11-21 15:34:45','0000-00-00 00:00:00','{\"image_intro\":\"\",\"float_intro\":\"\",\"image_intro_alt\":\"\",\"image_intro_caption\":\"\",\"image_fulltext\":\"\",\"float_fulltext\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_alt\":\"\",\"image_fulltext_caption\":\"\"}','{\"urla\":false,\"urlatext\":\"\",\"targeta\":\"\",\"urlb\":false,\"urlbtext\":\"\",\"targetb\":\"\",\"urlc\":false,\"urlctext\":\"\",\"targetc\":\"\"}','{\"article_layout\":\"\",\"show_title\":\"\",\"link_titles\":\"\",\"show_tags\":\"\",\"show_intro\":\"\",\"info_block_position\":\"\",\"info_block_show_title\":\"\",\"show_category\":\"\",\"link_category\":\"\",\"show_parent_category\":\"\",\"link_parent_category\":\"\",\"show_associations\":\"\",\"show_author\":\"\",\"link_author\":\"\",\"show_create_date\":\"\",\"show_modify_date\":\"\",\"show_publish_date\":\"\",\"show_item_navigation\":\"\",\"show_icons\":\"\",\"show_print_icon\":\"\",\"show_email_icon\":\"\",\"show_vote\":\"\",\"show_hits\":\"\",\"show_noauth\":\"\",\"urls_position\":\"\",\"alternative_readmore\":\"\",\"article_page_title\":\"\",\"show_publishing_options\":\"\",\"show_article_options\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_backend\":\"\",\"show_urls_images_frontend\":\"\"}',11,0,'','',1,209,'{\"robots\":\"\",\"author\":\"\",\"rights\":\"\",\"xreference\":\"\"}',0,'*','');

--
