Rand’s fortunes tied to restless global markets
The rand is affected by shifts in global risk sentiment as it is one of the most highly traded emerging-market currencies
The rand was relatively stable on Thursday afternoon, but its short-term fate is tied directly to activity in global markets, which continue to be volatile. Risk assets appear to have begun unraveling again after a broadly positive start to the day. Shares, in particular, have come under renewed pressure, leaving the rand vulnerable to further weakness. The rand tends to be most affected by shifts in global risk sentiment because it is one of the most highly traded emerging-market currencies. It has weakened nearly 5% against the dollar so far in December, partially negating the positive effect of lower international oil prices. The two factors play a key role in shaping the outlook on inflation, which rose to an annual rate of 5.2% in November, from 5.1% in October. In November, the Reserve Bank raised interest rates by 25 basis points, for the first time in more than two years, citing the effect of a weaker rand-dollar exchange rate and the inflation outlook. However, with much lo...
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.