The Financial Sector Conduct Authority says employers who fail to meet their pension fund obligations has more than tripled increasing from 23 funds and 5 430 employers in April 2023 to 75 funds and 16 556 employers as of February 2026. Current data suggests that the severity of arrears is increasing, with late payment interest increasing by 21.5%, compared with a 9% increase in the capital portion of arrears. This indicates that outstanding contributions are remaining unpaid for longer periods and continuing to accumulate interest. Bongiwe Zwane caught up with Manager in the Retirement Funds within the Financial Sector Conduct Authority Takalani Lukhaimane