The JSE pared earlier gains on Friday to close just modestly higher as banks and financials retreated on a weaker rand.Sentiment turned risk-off on a weaker rand after EFF leader Julius Malema introduced a bill in parliament proposing that the state become the South African Reserve Bank’s sole shareholder.Banking, financial and property stocks were the major losers on the day. Platinums were higher, while gold stocks retreated on the stronger dollar.Sasol ended the day 1.32% up at R528.50 on a firmer Brent crude price, which had risen 0.5% to $71.73 by the close.Globally, Turkey’s lira resumed its weakening path after the US threatened to institute further sanctions against the country. "Emerging-market worries are not going away any time soon as they continue to struggle in bear market territory," said Oanda analyst Dean Popplewell.The euro received some support from upbeat inflation data out of the eurozone, confirming the outlook for a first interest-rate hike in the middle of ne...

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.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.