Policy uncertainty rose in 2017 — but the outlook for 2018 is looking brighter
The policy uncertainty index released by North-West University showed an average score of 55.4, up from 53.6 in the third quarter of 2017
Policy uncertainty rose in the fourth quarter of 2017 following a grim medium-term budget policy statement in October and political anxiety in the build up to the ANC’s elective conference in December.The outlook for 2018 is brighter, however.The policy uncertainty index (PUI) released on Tuesday by the North-West University (NWU) School of Business and Governance, showed an average score of 55.4, up from 53.6 in the third quarter of 2017.A figure above 50 reflects heightened policy uncertainty, while a score below that indicates reduced uncertainty."SA cannot rely only on the weather and the world economy for its growth. Domestic policies are the key to sustained growth and employment," said Prof Raymond Parsons, an economist at NWU involved in the compilation of the index.While the fourth-quarter index did not take the market reaction to Cyril Ramaphosa’s ascension to the ANC presidency into account, Parsons said there was significant potential for a reduction in policy and politi...
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.