Frequently Asked Questions
What are Participation Bonds?
A Participation Bond is an investment that combines consistent returns with capital security. The structure that supports our Secured Investment is a collective investment scheme. It is therefore subject to the same strict regulations from the Financial Sector Conduct Authority as unit trusts, making them low-risk investments.
How can there really be no fees?
Fedgroup charges no fees on your investment amount or your interest. Our income is earned from the properties we finance and the interest income generated.
Who should invest in Secured Investment?
Our Secured Investment's combination of consistent returns and capital security is popular with South Africans who are looking for a lump-sum investment, regardless of age and income. Our diverse investment base includes individuals, pension funds, fund managers, trusts, charities and schools.
How secure is my investment?
The investment is secured against the bonds we issue. We also have additional security in place to ensure that we always pay our investors. In the 30 plus years that we have offered this product, our investors have always received their monthly income while their capital remained secure.
How will I be taxed?
Once your interest income is more than your tax threshold, tax on interest income will apply. This tax rate is determined by your income tax status.
Is a tax number compulsory to invest in a Secured Investment?
Yes, a tax number is required in order to place a new investment or to reinvest an existing investment.
When will I receive my first interest payment?
All interest is paid out monthly and in advance, unless you have chosen to reinvest your interest for higher growth. Where an investment is made during the course of the month, the first payment of monthly interest will be made on a pro-rata basis.
Can an investor switch from the growth to the income option?
Yes, you can switch from the growth option to the income option, and no penalties will apply.
What happens when an investor passes away?
When an investor passes on, the executor of the estate or another representative in possession of a letter of authority will provide the instructions on the disposal of the benefit. If the investment has already matured, the capital can be withdrawn. If it has not yet matured, the executor or representative can transfer the benefit to the beneficiaries of the estate. The beneficiaries can choose to have the income paid out or reinvested.
Can I withdraw reinvested interest to pay my taxes?
Yes. An investor can approach the manager to request for a portion of the capitalised interest to be paid out to meet tax liabilities, provided that the correct supporting document from SARS is provided to verify the amount required. Should there be no supporting documents provided from SARS, an early withdrawal penalty will be charged.
Are there special circumstances under which I can withdraw the capital portion of my investment?
The manager can consider a request from an investor of a non-matured product to have a portion of the investment paid out prior to the maturity date. The nature of the request must relate to financial distress or medical expenses. Supporting documents such as three months' bank statements and medical bills must be provided to the manager when submitting such requests. Should the request be approved by the manager, the early withdrawal penalty must be accepted by the investor. It is important to note that the quotation of an early withdrawal fee should not be interpreted that the early withdrawal is approved. The early withdrawal fee is calculated based on the remaining term and the nominal rate of return.