The rand has clocked up gains of more than 30% against the dollar since the end of 2015, and hit a 20-month peak of R12.43 on 24 March this year. It has remained resilient since then despite a shock Cabinet reshuffle, credit rating downgrades, news that the economy has sunk into a recession, and continued political and policy uncertainty. An unexpected interest rate cut in July – the first in five years – also did nothing to dent its strength. The question is, will the currency continue to stand its ground as political risks mount ahead of the ANC leadership conference at the end of this year?
Strong
The general consensus is yes, with most analysts predicting the rand will end the year at current levels close to R13 to the dollar even if the Reserve Bank cuts interest rates again, as expected. For many South Africans, the trend is puzzling.
However, the currency has been supported by two important trends that show no signs of shifting soon. One is the global “risk on” environment, which means that investors are confident enough to pump money into emerging-market assets for the better yields which they offer. The other is South Africa’s widening trade surplus, which has narrowed the deficit on its current account – the broadest measure of trade in goods and services. This is key as the shortfall must be covered by inflows of foreign capital into domestic bonds and equities – also known as “hot money” – which could suddenly reverse in response to a shift in sentiment towards the country, or emerging markets generally.
Bu hikaye Finweek English dergisinin 10 August 2017 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Giriş Yap
Bu hikaye Finweek English dergisinin 10 August 2017 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Giriş Yap
THE HEALTH OF SA'S MEDICAL SCHEMES
As the Covid-19 pandemic abates, finweek takes a look at the financial performance of some of the largest players.
The effect of Gilbertson's departure
With Ntsimbintle Holdings now the major shareholder of Jupiter Mines, it could change SA’s manganese industry.
Making money from music
Why investors are increasingly drawn to the music industry.
Conviction is key
Sandy Rheeder plays a critical role in Mukuru’s mission to open up financial services to the emerging consumer market in Africa through tailor-made technology solutions and platforms.
The post-pandemic toolkit
How CFOs can use technology to support growth.
Big city living exodus
Mini cities like Waterfall City and Steyn City are redefining city-style apartment living.
Big compact, big value
Handsome, with a hefty level of standard specification, the roomy Haval Jolion compact crossover is a great value proposition.
On barriers to entry
There are various ways in which a company or sector can achieve competitive dominance. They usually make for good investments.
Fear and greed in one index
To buck the trend, when markets are hot or cold, is a tough thing to do. However, it can deliver solid returns.
Africa's largest data centre facility coming soon
Vantage Data Centers plans to invest over R15bn for its first African data centre facility in Attacq’s Waterfall City.
