By Aidan James Freswick – Brenthurst Wealth
Building wealth takes time, discipline and requires a long-term view.
Building, protecting, and growing wealth requires a comprehensive plan structured around every investor’s personal goal and circumstances. It is a long-term process – a marathon not a sprint. These are the key components for success.
Time is money:
What does this really mean? Simply not taking charge of your personal finances could cost you great investment opportunities and capital growth. Not seeking professional financial advice on how to best invest your wealth might be detrimental to your long-term objectives. Take the time to get professional advice as time wasted cannot be replaced. The value of compound growth is realised over time, so the sooner you become invested in markets, the more powerful the effect of compound growth could be.
Devise your three savings strategies:
A general rule of thumb is that each investor should aim to have three savings strategies. These are short-term savings, medium-term savings, and long-term savings. Short-term savings should be easily accessible and can be used for emergencies, travel and leisure, or a deposit on a property or vehicle. Medium-term savings could consist of additional retirement savings, tertiary education for children, or home improvements in a few years. Long-term savings could be retirement funds or capital for your family to inherit one day. It is important that you plan your short-, medium-, and long-term savings strategies as early in life as possible, as time in financial markets is one of your biggest assets. Most importantly, save as much money as possible. When additional funds become available, save that too.
Be comfortable with what you are investing in:
There could be nothing more counterproductive than investing in an inappropriate solution. An example could be being invested in a fixed-term product for five years when you need to access the funds immediately. A wealth advisor should be able to make you understand what you are investing in and the details of the investment solution. Make sure that you understand all the ins and outs, including the tax implications, of where your wealth is being allocated, and that you are comfortable with it.
Estate Planning: The cherry on the top
A good financial plan should always be backed up by estate planning. You should have a valid will as soon as you own your first asset, and as early as opening your first bank account. Your will should be updated when personal circumstances change, additional assets are acquired or sold, addition or death of family members and beneficiaries just to name a few. Having a will in place will ensure that your estate is correctly planned and that asset distribution in terms of the will is seamlessly achieved.
Ensure that you regularly review your investment strategy and adjust it if circumstances change. Building wealth takes time, discipline and requires a long-term view.
Megan joined the Brenthurst Wealth team in March 2026 as an Administrative and Fiduciary Services Assistant at our Val de Vie Office in the Western Cape. Prior to joining Brenthurst, Megan gained three years of experience in the retail sector, where she developed management and client service skills.
I obtained my National Diploma in Financial Information Systems from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology in 1999 and have worked in the wealth management industry since January 2000. Over the years, I have gained extensive experience in various roles, including Portfolio Manager Assistant, Planner Assistant, and Paraplanner.
Esmarelda Isaacs-Andreas joined the Brenthurst Wealth Stellenbosch office in October 2025, taking on the dual role of Receptionist and Fiduciary Administrator.
I obtained my National Diploma in Financial Information Systems from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology in 1999 and have worked in the wealth management industry since January 2000. Over the years, I have gained extensive experience in various roles, including Portfolio Manager Assistant, Planner Assistant, and Paraplanner.
Ashley joined Brenthurst Wealth in January 2025 as Office Administrative Assistant and Receptionist for the Stellenbosch Office.
René Heystek joined Brenthurst Wealth in November 2023, as receptionist and administrative assistant in the newly established George/Garden Route office.
Michelle Heystek has built a career in the financial services over the last two decades, after obtaining her B.Com degree in Financial Management in 2005. Once she joined Brenthurst in 2006, she continued her academic journey, obtaining her Certificate in Wealth Management from INSETA in 2007, followed by a Postgraduate Diploma in Financial Planning from the University of the Free State. In 2008, she earned the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation.
Anelle joined Brenthurst Wealth as a Receptionist and Administrative Assistant to Brian Butchart in the Cape Town office in December 2023. She has a wealth of knowledge from working as a liaison between Financial Advisers and clients at TMA and Absa Investment Management Services (Aims) since 1998. She obtained her B. com degree from the University of Port Elizabeth in 1997.
ADMITTED ATTORNEY | FINANCIAL PLANNER & HEAD OF BRENTHURST FOURWAYS
Sanet was appointed in April 2020, joining our Cape Town team as an Executive Administration Assistant to Renee Eagar. She has been in the financial services industry since 1990. Her previous experience includes positions at Sanlam, BJM and ABSA. She spent her last 12 years working at Alexander Forbes Private Client Wealth as a Senior Wealth Management Assistant. She has received numerous accolades over the years which include but not limited to, Alexander Forbes Client Service Excellence – Silver award in 2014,2015 and 2017. Sanet has also obtained her Certificate in Wealth Management (NQF 5) in 2012 and achieved “Best Student of the Year” from Moonstone.
Maria Smit is a Certified Financial Planner® with over 10 years of experience in the financial planning industry.
