Tana Malinga
For millions of South Africans, financial success is no longer measured solely by the size of a bank balance. It is about creating stability, unlocking opportunities and building a future with confidence.
Recognising this shift, FNB has marked the 10th anniversary of its nav» ecosystem by unveiling two powerful new digital solutions-nav» Youth and nav» Payroll-designed to help young people and businesses thrive in an increasingly dynamic economy.
The milestone celebrates more than a decade of innovation that has transformed nav» from a simple money management tool into one of South Africa’s most comprehensive digital ecosystems. Today, it serves more than six million customers, supporting life’s most important decisions, from buying a first home and managing a vehicle to improving financial wellbeing, protecting families and giving back to communities.
Speaking at the anniversary media briefing, Clair Brenner, CEO of nav», said the past decade has revealed that financial wellbeing means something different for every individual. While some customers focus on building emergency savings, others aspire to own homes, launch businesses or establish additional income streams. Understanding these evolving needs has enabled FNB to continuously develop solutions that offer meaningful, practical support beyond conventional banking.
That customer-centred approach is reflected in impressive results. More than six million users have relied on nav» Money to strengthen their finances, collectively creating over R1.75 billion in savings goals while engagement has increased seven-and-a-half times since the platform’s launch. Data also shows that nearly three-quarters of active users now engage with advanced financial planning tools, helping them address financial pressures before they become crises.
Homeownership has equally become more accessible through nav» Home, which has facilitated over R76 billion in home loans while helping more than 61,000 South Africans find homes. Meanwhile, nav» Car has simplified vehicle ownership with 1.34 million vehicles registered in its Virtual Garage and more than 728,000 licence renewals completed digitally, allowing motorists to avoid lengthy queues and administrative delays.
Beyond personal finances, nav» continues creating broader social and economic value. Through nav» Marketplace, more than 9,500 trusted service providers are now accessible to customers, generating over R4.7 million in revenue opportunities for small businesses. nav» Care has also made charitable giving easier, directing more than R10.5 million to verified charities and community organisations across South Africa.
One of the biggest announcements during the celebration was the introduction of nav» Youth, a platform created specifically for young South Africans navigating financial independence, changing careers, entrepreneurship and multiple income streams. The solution combines an expanded Learning Hub covering budgeting, credit management and side hustles, alongside Life’s Keys practical guidance and the Career Compass podcast. In just the first half of the financial year, the platform recorded over 450,000 interactions, helping 94,000 young customers gain valuable financial knowledge and confidence.
FNB also introduced nav» Payroll, an affordable digital payroll solution aimed particularly at small and growing businesses. The platform simplifies employee payments while ensuring compliance with SARS reporting requirements. Businesses receive five free payslips each month before a minimal fee applies, while professionally generated payslips provide employees with recognised proof of income, strengthening access to housing, credit and other financial opportunities. More than 130 businesses have already begun using the solution organically.
According to Jolandé Duvenage, CEO of Value Ecosystems and Customer Experience at FNB, customers increasingly view banking as a connected life journey rather than separate financial products. Whether purchasing property, managing household finances, investing in renewable energy or supporting charitable causes, customers expect seamless experiences that remove complexity and enable progress. This philosophy continues shaping innovations such as nav» Earth, which assists customers with energy and sustainability decisions.
The celebration also rewards loyal customers through the nav» 10-Year Birthday Campaign, offering six months of interactive challenges within the FNB and RMB Private Bank apps. Participants stand a chance to win an Ultimate Rugby Experience in 2027 alongside prizes including MacBook Air laptops, Nintendo Switch 2 consoles, Pick n Pay grocery vouchers, Nando’s vouchers and eBucks fuel rewards.
As South Africans continue adapting to changing economic realities, FNB believes the future belongs to connected digital ecosystems that empower customers to make informed decisions every day. The launch of nav» Youth and nav» Payroll signals more than the expansion of a banking platform, it reflects a long-term commitment to equipping individuals, entrepreneurs and businesses with the knowledge, confidence and practical tools needed to build stronger, more resilient futures.
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