Planning, insuring, and investing just got simpler and more rewarding with the launch of glu, a new division by the Professional Provident Society (PPS).
Set to go live on 30 January 2025, glu is designed to bring the benefits of mutuality and profit-sharing to a broader audience across South Africa, redefining financial security and well-being.
As a division of PPS, which primarily serves graduate professionals, glu expands access to the unique mutuality model.
Unlike traditional listed companies that distribute profits to shareholders, PPS and glu share their profits with members, creating a financial ecosystem where success is collective. This innovative approach ensures that members are not just customers but active participants in the business’s growth.
glu is tailored for individuals who seek straightforward, transparent financial solutions to plan for their futures. Inspired by the spirit of ubuntu, the brand’s “Financial Togetherness™” philosophy fosters a supportive community where members can confidently pursue their financial goals while benefiting from shared success.
Michele Jennings, Chief Executive of glu, emphasises, “glu is more than just a financial services provider; it’s a partner in one’s financial journey. In our world, customers are more than just policyholders, they are members who form part of a community that shares in the benefits of mutuality. Our purpose is clear: to be the companion that takes the anxiety out of our members’ financial journeys. We aim to simplify financial planning and empower members to make informed financial choices.”
The launch of glu comes at a critical time, as financial stress continues to weigh heavily on South Africans. Recent studies reveal that 75% of South Africans experience financial anxiety, with significant impacts on their home life (94%), work life (78%), and health (77%), according to DebtBusters. glu addresses these challenges by offering a streamlined product range that meets the evolving needs of financial planning, insurance, and investments.
glu Chief Financial Officer, Nick Battersby – PPS Group Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Michele Jennings – glu Chief Executive, Izak Smit – PPS Group Chief Executive Officer, Marusha Nariansamy – glu Head of Actuarial, Thembeka Mabaso – glu Chief Marketing & PR Officer and Sibusiso Mbingo, glu Chief Information Officer
With a focus on simplicity and ease of use, glu provides practical solutions that empower members to navigate their financial journeys with confidence. The brand’s inclusive approach is designed to make financial planning less daunting and more accessible.
Izak Smit, CEO of PPS Group, explains, “glu was conceived from a simple yet powerful idea within PPS – to extend the benefits of mutuality to even more South Africans. With glu, we’re building on PPS’s legacy of helping individuals lay a firm foundation for their financial futures. It’s about offering more people the opportunity to share in mutual success while creating a community where financial planning feels less overwhelming and more empowering.”
Targeting middle-upper income individuals aged 25–55 with a minimum household income of R30,000 per month, glu is ideal for those with a diploma or degree or a connection to an existing PPS member. The brand fosters a diverse community of like-minded individuals who believe in the power of collective success, creating a financial ecosystem where everyone benefits.
With glu, PPS is not just offering financial services—it’s building a movement that empowers South Africans to take control of their financial futures, together.
