In a developing legal battle , Adv. Carlo Viljoen is representing clients in a major case against Nedbank. The dispute stems from a broken bond agreement that resulted in devastating financial consequences, including the collapse of five businesses, the risk of property loss, and job losses. Nedbank has since admitted negligence and issued a formal apology, but for the affected client and their employees, the damage runs deep.
The incident began when Nedbank approved a bond at 100%, despite having promised the client a 105% bond—an additional 5% that was crucial for covering transfer costs and legal fees. When the client queried the shortfall, their personal Nedbank banker assured that the matter would be corrected immediately.
Relying on this promise, the client used their own business capital—funds earmarked for advertising and operations—to proceed with the transaction, expecting Nedbank to fulfill its commitment. Instead, the bank delayed the payment for an extended period, during which the client’s cash flow was severely disrupted. Business operations slowed dramaticaly, and vital partnerships began to unravel.
In a further shocking move, Nedbank subsequently closed all of the client’s bank accounts—including corporate and transactional accounts—leaving them unable to conduct business or access their funds. The impact was devastating. Not only did five previously successful businesses collapse, but employees were also left jobless and families without income.
The client, now represented by Adv. Carlo Viljoen, is fighting to recover from what they describe as a preventable financial disaster caused by corporate negligence. “This is not just a case about money. It’s about dignity, accountability, and justice,” said Viljoen, who is preparing to escalate the matter through all appropriate legal channels.
As a registered credit provider under the National Credit Regulator (NCR), Nedbank is legally required to uphold transparency and responsible lending practices. MediaFantastic believes that such cases should not go unnoticed and urges other affected individuals or businesses to come forward.
This case underscores a growing concern around accountability in South Africa’s financial sector. While Nedbank’s apology is on record, the damage done to the client, their employees, and their businesses may be irreversible. Adv. Carlo Viljoen is leading the charge to ensure justice is served—and that negligence of this scale does not go unchallenged.
MediaFantastic continues to stand with those affected by corporate failures and calls on any parties with similar experiences to contact us and share their stories.