Our Team is Growing

March 18, 2024

At Bovest, it’s very important for us that when we appoint someone new, not only that they’re professional and diligent, but we ensure they also fit into the culture of our business. Our culture is mainly driven by one single purpose: To put our client’s interest first in everything we do.


We are delighted to announce that from the 1st of February our team has grown by 2 as we welcome Wealth manager Francois le Clus and his broker assistant, Belinda Braak to the Bovest family

At Bovest, it’s very important for us that when we appoint someone new, not only that they’re professional and diligent, but we ensure they also fit into the culture of our business. Our culture is mainly driven by one single purpose: To put our client’s interest first in everything we do.


It’s on this principle that Bovest was founded back in 2008 by our chairman Riaan Botha and it will continue to be the driving force behind our business.


Francois le Clus is a seasoned financial advisor with a passion for empowering individuals and families to achieve their financial goals. With a comprehensive background in investments, tax, debt and a commitment to personalized service, Francois has become a trusted partner for his clients on their financial journeys.

Professional Background:

With over 9 years of experience in the financial industry, first at Momentum and then Attooh, Francois has honed his expertise in wealth management, retirement planning, and investment strategies.

Francois earned his Bcom HR degree (Univ of Pretoria), Bcom HR Hons (Univ Pretoria) and Postgraduate Degree in Financial Planning (Univ of Free State) where he developed a solid foundation in financial principles and analytical skills. Committed to staying at the forefront of industry trends, he regularly participates in professional development opportunities and continuing education.

Client-Centric Approach:

Recognizing that each client’s financial situation is unique, Francois takes a holistic and client-centric approach to financial planning. By carefully listening to his clients’ goals, concerns, and aspirations, he tailors customized strategies to help them navigate the complexities of financial decision-making.


Areas of Expertise:

  • Investment Management: Francois provides strategic guidance on building and managing investment portfolios, taking into account risk tolerance, time horizon, and financial objectives.
  • Retirement Planning: Francois helps clients develop comprehensive strategies to achieve financial security during their post-career years.
  • Estate Planning: Understanding the importance of legacy planning, Francois collaborates with clients to create effective estate plans that align with their wishes and minimize tax implications.


Personal Philosophy:

Francois believes in fostering long-term relationships with his clients built on trust, transparency, and open communication. His goal is to alleviate the stress associated with financial decision-making, allowing clients to focus on what matters most to them. Francois also strives to educate clients in their understanding of debt and how to create long-term wealth.


Whether guiding clients through market fluctuations, helping them plan for retirement, or providing insights into tax-efficient strategies, Francois stands as a dedicated advocate for financial well-being, committed to helping clients achieve their financial dreams.


Geo Botha CFP® B.Com (Hons)

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By PJ Botha October 30, 2025
South Africa has officially been removed off the Financial Action Task Force's (FATF) grey list as of October 24, 2025. This comes after 33 months of work to strengthen the country's anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism systems. Why Was South Africa Grey Listed in the first place? In February 2023, the FATF placed South Africa on the grey list due to weaknesses in its ability to enforce anti-money laundering regulations. These included ineffective investigations and prosecutions, particularly in severe money laundering and terrorist financing cases. To get off the list, South Africa needed to accomplish 22 action items. By June 2025, the FATF reported that all items had been handled. Although some areas, like as prosecutions, require improvement, this did not prevent the country from being removed from the list. What is the Function of the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC)? The Financial Intelligence Centre helped South Africa achieve FATF regulations. It enhanced how it oversees businesses and professions that deal with money but are not banks, employing stronger risk assessment tools and compliance measures. The FIC also collaborated extensively with law enforcement, promoting the use of financial intelligence in investigations. This resulted in genuine results, such as the freezing of approximately R157 million in suspected illegal funds and the recovery of nearly R144 million in stolen money. What impact did the listing have on the Economy and Investments? Being on the Grey List increased the cost and complexity of foreign transactions. It also harmed investor confidence, particularly while South Africa holds the G20 presidency in 2025. Financial experts predict that now that the country is no longer on the list, investor sentiment will improve. According to PPS Investments, this may lead to: Improved access to global capital. A stronger Rand. Increased interest in South African stocks A better climate for the local property markets. This change contributes to a more favourable view for South Africa's economy and investment landscape. How do South Africa compares to other countries that was grey listed? South Africa's 33-month stint on the grey list is comparable to other countries. Tanzania required 33 months, Nigeria 25 months, Mozambique 37 months, and Burkina Faso 57 months. What's next? South Africa is already planning for the next FATF mutual evaluation, which is scheduled for 2026-2027. The FIC states that, while leaving the grey list is a significant step forward, the country must continue to improve its mechanisms for combating financial crime.
By Francois Le Clus October 30, 2025
Have you ever stopped to ask yourself: What will I actually do every day when I retire? It sounds like such a simple question, yet very few people think about it in a practical way. You might have a plan for your finances, but have you thought about your time? Will your days be filled with purpose and activity—or will you find yourself just sitting around, wondering what to do next? From my experience working with retired clients, people tend to go one of two ways: they either become passive or they stay active and engaged. When you first retire, the main concern is usually financial. Will my money last for the rest of my life? But after a few months, that anxiety often fades, and a new question emerges: What is my purpose now? I recently read a remarkable book by Bob Buford called Halftime. Buford was extremely successful financially, but tragedy struck when he lost his son. That loss made him reflect deeply on what truly mattered in life. He realized that while money is important, purpose is what gives life meaning. Buford explains this through the Sigmoid Curve : Curve 1 represents the first part of your life—learning, growing, and mastering your craft. This typically takes you up to around age 50, when you might feel like you’ve reached a plateau or are just coasting toward retirement. Curve 2 is the next chapter—when your focus shifts from inward to outward, from success to significance. This is where you find fulfillment by contributing, giving back, and making a difference in your community. The retirees who thrive the most aren’t the ones who just relax all day. They’re the ones who stay involved, serve others, and wake up each morning with a sense of purpose. A Final Thought The Bible tells us that Abraham had his first child at the age of 100, and his wife Sarah was 90. That story reminds us that no matter your age, there’s still a promise and a purpose over your life. You still have something valuable to give. So as you plan your retirement, don’t just think about your finances—think about your purpose. Don’t be passive. Be active. Be intentional. Live with purpose.