A trend is growing among South Africans who choose to keep part of their savings in cash rather than placing them in banks or using formal investment instruments. According to the latest Old Mutual Savings & Investment Monitor, the proportion of working South Africans with unsecured cash savings increased from 53% in 2025 to 64% in 2026.
This growth is most noticeable among young consumers and those with higher incomes; 80% of people aged 18 to 29 reported having such cash savings. The report notes that 'Unsecured cash savings continue to grow, notably over the last year from 53% to 64% in 2026. Both the frequency and annual increase in unsecured cash are particularly high among 18–29 year olds (80%) and high-income earners (over R30,000).'