The JSE closed firmer on Wednesday with broad-based gains on buoyant global markets and as strong quarterly results from Steinhoff and Sanlam supported sentiment. The market was boosted by firmer global markets, despite lower oil prices, with Asia setting the scene early in the day. Quarterly updates by global furniture retailer Steinhoff, in the Christo Wiese stable, and financial group Sanlam, surprised the market on the upside, sending financial and industrials higher. Resources gained on firmer metal prices, with gold having risen 0.75% to $1,178.54 an ounce in early evening trade and platinum up 1.55% to $949.16. Brent crude, however, softened 0.70% to $53.52 a barrel. Banks and retailers gained on rand strength, which reduces the possibility of interest-rate increases affecting the usually rate-sensitive sectors next year. The all share closed 1.10% higher at 49,476.10 points and the blue-chip top 40 rose 1.19%. General retailers were up 2.01% and industrials gained 1%. Resour...
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