Feeling like your December budget melts faster than an ice cream in the sun?

You’re not alone; even the most disciplined savers lose control when the festive season hits.

In this episode of Everything Counts, Motheo Khoaripe sits down with Investec financial advisor Nirvashni Rajkumar to unpack why we overspend in December, how festive marketing and emotions cloud our judgment, and the practical steps you can take right now to avoid a financial hangover in January.

From understanding the psychology behind “DeZemba,” to making your 13th cheque last, and setting a realistic December budget the whole family can get behind. This conversation is packed with real-world strategies to help you celebrate without regret.

If you want to end the year with clarity, avoid holiday overspending, and start the next one strong, you’re in the right place.

00:00 Introduction

01:30 Why are we prone to overspending during the holiday season?

03:00 How festive marketing drives holiday season spending

04:00 The psychology of holiday spending

06:00 When should we start budgeting for December?

07:00 Planning for holiday season spending isn’t a one-person job

08:15 How your financial advisor can help with your December budget

10:00 How to make your 13th cheque last: Confronting financial vulnerabilities

14:00 Top tips to avoid blowing your December budget

15:00 Setting a realistic December budget

18:00 Teaching children about delayed gratification

19:00 Hacks to getting the most out of your holiday season spending

23:00 How to plan and budget for the year ahead

26:30 How to end the year with financial clarity

27:30 Conclusion Investec Focus Radio SA