1Lifeinvest FAQ's

Unit trusts provide a means of investing in the stock market.

Investing in unit trusts is less risky than investing in Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) because unit trusts are actively managed by a team of experienced investment professionals as opposed to ETFs tracking an index.

Also known as a collective investment or mutual fund, a unit trust takes the pooled money from a number of investors and invests the money in the stock market. Thus, it enables individual investors with a relatively small amount of money to invest in multiple shares and companies, and enables them to have a diversified investment. The returns from the collective investment are split amongst the investors according to their proportion of ownership.

Investing allows you to put away a set amount of money that can grow over time, which can be used to cover obligations later in life such your children's education or plan for your retirement. Without a structured saving and investment plan, money can easily be spent on everyday consumption. It is recommended that you invest 10% of your first pay cheque and continue doing so for the rest of your life. The sooner you start investing the better.

Allows you exposure to the stock market using a portfolio of different shares and stocks. These unit trusts are managed by experienced fund managers who buy and sell the shares, meaning that you do not have to watch and time the market.

There is no minimum investment period. However, investing in unit trusts is a long-term investment strategy and it is recommended that you invest for at least three years or longer.

Investing allows you to grow your money at a faster rate than saving. Investing in equities (shares) has proven to give far superior returns than keeping your money in cash or in the bank. Even with the market's difficulties, investing in equity has proven to be the best way to grow your capital over the long term.

Your money is handled by Sanlam Investment Managers. It is very safe and there is no lock-in period. You can view and track your investment via the internet and withdraw your funds at any time.

By doing a questionnaire, we will determine the unit trusts that are best suited for your needs.

Give five-working days notice, submit a withdrawal form and FICA documents (proof of identity and residence) to the fund manager.

The minimum monthly amount is a R200 bank debit order and you can also invest a minimum once-off lump sum investment of R2000 if you choose. If you only wish to contribute a once-off lump sum, the minimum investment is R5 000.

Switching into another fund that does not match your risk profile is done at your own risk. Switching may also lead to unnecessary costs. You need to complete the switch form and send it to the fund manager.

A regulation 28 fund holds an audit certificate issued by the auditors of the fund or a compliance letter issued by the compliance officer of the fund, which the fund manager has supplied to the Association of Collective Investments (ACI) certifying that the fund in question is managed in accordance with Regulation 28 of the Pension Funds (Act 24 of 1956).

The fund manager does not double-debit your account. However, after three consecutive missed debits, the fund manager cancels the policy but your money remains safe in the investment account.