Four measures of SA's economic health to watch this week
The news is expected to be mixed, with jobs stats likely to bring bad news, but optimism about the trade balance, producer inflation and credit extension
1. Quarterly employment statistics What it is: an establishment-based survey of whether jobs were added or lost in various industries in the private sector, and in government. What it is not: unlike the quarterly labour force survey, the QES does not provide demographic information Expectations: • FNB expects a drop from the fourth quarter of 2018, when seasonal hiring usually accounts for an increase in jobs. • Investec says more investment is needed to stoke job creation. 2. Producer inflation: Inflation as measured by the producer price index is due on Thursday. Expectations: • Investec expects producer inflation to have slowed in May, forecasting a 4.2% year-on-year increase in the PPI, from 4.4% in April. • FNB expects it to be unchanged. 3. Private sector credit figures, due on Friday: Growth in private sector credit extension slowed to 5.1% in April. Both FNB and Investec expect an uptick to 5.4% for May. 4. Trade balance: The South African Revenue Service announces balance o...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.