The JSE posted broad-based losses on Wednesday, taking its cue from global markets, which were mostly lower as investors shied away from equities.Rising US bond yields continue to unsettle markets, with the Dow sharply lower on Wednesday, despite upbeat corporate data.The rand weakened further, putting pressure on local retailers, banks and financial stocks. Commodity prices were also lower, with analysts saying the firmer dollar was beginning to crimp demand. A firmer dollar makes commodities more expensive for those purchasing them in other currencies.Uncertainty over the Mining Charter, and a public-sector strike, has also had an effect on sentiment. Local data was, however, upbeat. The FNB/BER consumer confidence index rose by 34 points to 26, the first time the index has breached the zero-mark in three years, and the highest single quarterly increase since 1982.Improved confidence has not yet filtered through into improved prospects for all companies, with Standard Bank warning...
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