Financial infidelity in relationships can be as damaging as affairs, expert warns

Financial infidelity happens when one partner hides, lies about or secretly mismanages money. It can include undisclosed debt, covert investments, secret spending or making financial decisions without a partner’s knowledge.

“Think of financial infidelity as having a side chick in the relationship,” says Daddy Shabalala, an Independent Financial Adviser.

“You are basically having an affair with your money."

Shabalala stresses that trust and transparency are key.

“It is basically not disclosing the full financial aspect of your life to your partner. Money is not just numbers; it is highly emotional. It represents security, freedom and love.”