2025 Year-End Review of the Fiduciary Landscape

2025 Year-End Review of the Fiduciary Landscape

As we conclude another year in the fiduciary landscape, it is an apt moment to reflect on the progress, resilience, and collaboration that continue to define our industry. This year has been notable for the substantial regulatory changes and technological advancements that have strengthened governance and trust administration across South Africa.

Key Milestones in the Fiduciary and Trust Environment

• South Africa’s Removal from the FATF Greylist:

This achievement has notably increased international confidence, eased cross-border compliance pressures, and reaffirmed South Africa’s dedication to robust financial controls and transparency. Although many believe it indicates a reduced focus on trusts, it is actually the opposite, as we will have our next review in the first half of 2026.

• SARS tightening processes:

SARS enhanced its trust tax returns to obtain the information needed to ensure compliance with tax laws. SARS also increased its reliance on artificial intelligence (AI) to verify submitted documents. It was the first year that IT3(t)s became compulsory.

• Greater focus on trust service providers:

The Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) has gained a better understanding of the trust services industry and now recognises that many accountants provide such services. The FIC focus much more on these service providers.

• Enhanced Compliance Culture:

With increased scrutiny and updated regulatory requirements, fiduciary professionals have adapted their processes, strengthened internal controls, and embraced technology-driven solutions to support risk management.

2025 Trusteeze Achievements

• Consistent Organisational Growth:

We have continued expanding throughout the organisation, enhancing our capacity to serve our clients.

• Major Platform Enhancements:

Significant upgrades to our online trust administration platform have led to more automation, greater use of AI, better efficiency, and an improved user experience.

• Successful Digital Submissions:

Our clients successfully submitted IT3(t) data files to SARS, generated by our digital platform. This achievement highlights our commitment to accuracy, compliance, and innovation in trust reporting.

These milestones demonstrate our continuous progress towards more innovative and agile trust administration.

Acknowledging Leadership: Phia van der Spuy

This year would not be complete without recognising the exceptional contributions of Phia van der Spuy. For over a decade, she has been a highly respected thought leader in the fiduciary profession. Her work includes:

• Influential Articles:

Phia has written over 330 insightful articles since 13 November 2017. These articles, featured on the Trusteeze Linkedin page, website, and in publications such as IOL and Business Report, have been republished by companies and professional bodies to educate their audiences.

• Webinars and Educational Initiatives:

Phia has hosted and co-hosted numerous webinars, providing clarity on complex fiduciary issues, trust taxation, and regulatory developments. She is frequently invited by organisations such as SAICA, SAIPA, FISA, CIBA, SAIT, and other professional bodies to share her expertise.

• Panel Discussions and Industry Engagement:

As a participant in various panel discussions, including events organised by private companies, SAIT, SAICA, and the Annual Tax Indaba, Phia has shared expert insights into best practices, governance, and the future of the fiduciary sector.

• Academic Leadership:

As examiner of the UFS Trust Diploma for four years, Phia has played a pivotal role in shaping the professional journeys of future fiduciary specialists.

Her persistent dedication to educating, uplifting, and empowering fiduciary professionals continues to enhance our organisation and the wider industry.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As we begin a new year marked by further digital transformation, stronger governance, and a more resilient regulatory environment, we reaffirm our commitment to promoting fiduciary excellence through innovation, compliance, and effective leadership.

To start the year on the right note, we will host a webinar on 16 January 2026 to establish the trust landscape for 2026. Remember to diarise this well in advance. A formal invite will follow.

We express our gratitude to our clients, industry partners, and the broader fiduciary community for your steadfast trust and collaboration. Our success is rooted in your support.

We look forward to a progressive, transparent, and impactful 2026. Season’s greetings to you and your families.