China’s previously announced tariff on US products came into effect yesterday with more than 120 US products being affected.
The introduction of the 15% tariff could spark fresh fears of a trade war amongst global markets. On the topic of 15%, yesterday also saw the increase of VAT and with fuel levies set to………
Continue reading…
Local markets shift focus to the SARB’s MPC meeting today which could confirm a possible interest rate cut.
Speculation is that Governor Lesetja Kganyago could cut the interest rate by 25bps. Following Moody’s decision………
Continue reading…
Friday night ended on a high, with no dreaded downgrade from credit ratings agency Moody’s.
The announcement was greatly welcomed as it was supported with the outlook being changed to stable, which looks to restore some
Continue reading…
The rand is stronger this morning as the US and China Trade war heats up.
“The Donald” announced plans to slap certain Chinese imports with a 25% tariff, which was met with “fire and fury”
Continue reading…
The rand strengthened overnight despite US inflation and expected US interest rate hikes.
Future US inflation is predicted to break the Feds 2% target, forcing the powers that be to increase interest rates
Continue reading…
The rand remains firm and opens the day below 11.80/$, spurred on by pro-rand events which transpired yesterday.
SA’s January manufacturing output rose by 2.5%, supporting the expectation that the domestic economy is gaining momentum.
Continue reading…
The dollar rebounded late Friday on news of higher-than-expected US jobs growth in February.
Hourly wages moderated, easing inflation fears and concerns that the US Fed would hike interest rates 4 times this year.
Continue reading…
US Fed chair Jerome Powell’s hawkish (very positive) testimony yesterday has sent the greenback on a mini-rally.
The dollar gained more than 1% against the majors as Powell expressed optimism that the US economy remains strong.
Continue reading…
By all accounts President Ramaphosa’s first address to the nation was a roaring success.
All eyes now shift to the 2018 Budget Speech set for Wednesday at 14:00. The rand’s reaction to SONA was muted, with markets waiting to see Wednesday’s balancing act. National Treasury’s focus will be on how to confront the ballooning budget deficit and government debt, amongst many other issues (with the short term goal being to avoid yet another credit rating downgrade).
Continue reading…
The countdown has begun as Zuma’s days as President appear to be numbered with the ANC NEC meeting later today.
After the long wait and numerous speculation “Patience” is still key. USD/ZAR opens below 12/$ as EM Markets remain strong regardless of the volatility in global stock markets.
Continue reading…