The festive season is fast approaching.

We all know what this means. Splurging to spoil ourselves and loved ones and feasting.

The festive season comes with spending unnecessarily.

SV Capital co-founder Ayanda Majola says many experiences financial hangover due to the small, seemingly harmless expenses that add up.

“Let’s face it, South Africans turning December into one long spending spree could be a national sport. Whether it’s throwing the biggest braai or grabbing that extra just-because gift, the festive season feels like an open invitation to splurge. But when January rolls around, the financial hangover hits harder than expected,” says Majola. “But it doesn’t have to be this way.

She believes the festive season can be a time of both celebration and smart financial decisions. “We’ve all been there, overspending in December and then scrambling in January. It’s fun at the moment, but that financial stress is something we can avoid with a little bit of planning.”

She adds that the problem isn’t just the extravagant purchases.

“A few extra nights out, a handful of spontaneous gifts, and suddenly your December pay cheque has evaporated… The real cost? More than just a tight January – every rand spent on short-term pleasures could have been growing in an investment.

“Shifting your mindset is the answer. Instead of viewing December as a time to spend without limits, imagine if you took that same holiday budget and put a portion of it into investments that continue to grow long after the festive lights have dimmed,” says Majola.

Kagiso Tloubatla, SV Capital co-founder, says the festive season shouldn’t come at the expense of your financial future.

“If we redirected just half of what we spend on temporary thrills into smart investments, we’d all start the year in a much stronger position.

“Enjoying the festive season doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your 2025. With a few smart strategies this side of the year, you can still make the most of the holidays while setting yourself up for success in the New Year.”