South African retail traders are becoming more strategic in how they approach financial markets. A recent study by Kantar reveals that while most traders invest only a small portion of their income, their long-term plans reflect a deep commitment to making trading a primary source of income. This measured approach highlights a growing maturity and professionalism in the South African trading community.
As stated in the article on AllAfrica, nearly half of traders report investing no more than five percent of their monthly income. Another 37 percent say they are comfortable allocating up to a quarter of their income. These numbers may appear modest, but they reflect a calculated effort to learn, adapt, and build trading careers without overexposing themselves to financial risk. This level of caution suggests not hesitation, but discipline.
Interestingly, around 90 percent of experienced traders expect their trading activities to evolve into a long-term, sustainable income source. This speaks to the confidence and intentionality behind the cautious figures. Many are not just experimenting—they are preparing for a transition to trading as a full-time pursuit.
The study also highlighted how traders now evaluate platforms and brokers. Execution speed ranked highest, with 56 percent of participants naming it the most essential feature. Other commonly cited priorities include high leverage options, low spreads, swap-free accounts, and negative balance protection. These results indicate that South African traders are focusing not just on performance, but on systems that support risk control and consistent execution.
Beyond platform mechanics, traders are increasingly concerned with operational reliability. In particular, 42 percent of respondents consider fast and seamless deposit and withdrawal processes one of the top three factors when choosing a broker. This underscores how critical trust and accessibility have become in platform selection. Traders expect reliable access to their funds as a basic standard, not a bonus feature.
Financial security follows closely behind, with 40 percent listing it as a top priority. Regulatory compliance and licensing, while considered a given, still matter. Traders look for signs that a broker is well-regulated, transparent, and committed to long-term stability. It’s no longer enough for brokers to offer flashy features or promotional incentives. The expectation now is a platform that works consistently and protects its users’ interests.
Brand awareness also plays a role, though its impact depends on what the brand represents. For example, the study found that Exness had the highest brand recognition among those surveyed, with 75 percent of respondents familiar with the name. However, recognition alone isn’t enough. Traders are more likely to engage with a broker if its reputation reflects quality service, reliable infrastructure, and integrity.
The findings make it clear that South African traders are raising their expectations across the board. Gone are the days when a generous bonus or wide range of assets could compensate for weak operations. Now, brokers must deliver on three core fronts: stable execution, fast and secure fund access, and risk-management features that actively protect users. These are no longer “premium” aspects—they are the baseline.
This shift in mindset reflects the broader trend of traders approaching financial markets as professionals rather than hobbyists. With more structure and caution, traders are building a foundation for long-term success. Starting small—often with less than 5 percent of their income—gives them room to grow, make mistakes, and refine strategies without jeopardizing their financial stability.
Ultimately, this new generation of South African traders is more informed, more selective, and more serious about their goals. They are not looking for shortcuts. They are looking for platforms that align with their commitment to stability, transparency, and long-term growth. Brokers that can meet these evolving demands are well-positioned to thrive. Those that fall short may quickly find themselves losing relevance in an increasingly discerning market.
The message is clear: if brokers want to keep up with South Africa’s modern traders, they must go beyond sales pitches and deliver tools and experiences that match professional standards. Trading is no longer a gamble for these users—it’s a calculated path toward independence and financial sustainability.
