With Black Friday just around the corner, South Africans are bracing for a surge of discounts and deals. While the excitement of snagging bargains is undeniable, overspending can quickly lead to debt and financial strain. Sebastien Alexanderson, Head of National Debt Advisors (NDA), shares insights into the psychology behind spending and provides practical advice to help consumers stay disciplined and debt-free.

The Psychology Behind Spending

“Black Friday is a double-edged sword,” says Alexanderson. “While it offers savings opportunities, it can also lead consumers into financial traps if they don’t shop mindfully.” Spending decisions are often influenced by emotions rather than logic, with factors like Compulsive Buying Disorder (CBD) playing a significant role.

According to research, 5% of the population suffers from CBD, with younger individuals and women at higher risk. The impacts include:

• Financial strain: Increased debt and reduced savings.
• Emotional toll: Stress, anxiety, and depression.
• Social challenges: Strained relationships and hoarding behaviours.

Retailers are also adept at using psychological triggers to drive impulsive purchases. Strategies such as urgent messaging (e.g., “limited stock”) and FOMO (fear of missing out) are designed to override rational decision-making.

Black Friday in South Africa’s Economic Context

This year’s Black Friday comes amid a cautiously optimistic economic backdrop. The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) recently reduced the repo rate to 7.75%, lowering the prime lending rate to 11.25%. While inflation has dropped to 2.8%, economic pressures persist.

SARB Governor Lesetja Kganyago highlighted the need for structural reforms to strengthen the economy. However, high international interest rates and a weaker rand call for careful financial decisions.

Tips to Avoid Emotional and Impulsive Spending

To help consumers stay in control this Black Friday, Alexanderson recommends:

1. Recognise Emotional Triggers: Reflect on whether purchases are necessities or emotional responses.
2. Set Clear Goals: Write a shopping list and stick to it.
3. Create a Budget: Define how much you can afford to spend and avoid exceeding it.
4. Avoid Credit: Pay with cash or debit cards to prevent accumulating interest.
5. Pause and Reflect: Step away from big-ticket items and think them over before committing.

“Emotional spending impacts more than just your wallet—it can harm your mental health and relationships,” says Alexanderson. “Approaching Black Friday with discipline and awareness ensures it becomes an opportunity to shop smartly without financial regret.”

About National Debt Advisors

National Debt Advisors (NDA) is South Africa’s leading debt counselling company, helping consumers become debt-free in under 60 months. NDA negotiates with creditors to reduce monthly interest rates, consolidate debt into one instalment, and protect assets from repossession.

For more information, visit National Debt Advisors.

Press Release Submitted By

Company Name: National Debt AdvisorsContact Person: Sebastien AlexandersonWebsite: https://www.nationaldebtadvisors.co.za

Total Words: 408

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