US and China tensions continues to grab the headlines, despite disappointing US jobs data Friday.

The US created 103k jobs in March, a far cry from the expected 188k, with unemployment remaining at 4.1%. Emerging markets have recovered slightly, with the rand hugging 12/$. President Trump called China’s bluff over the weekend, threatening another $100bn in tariffs.

This week is relatively light on data, with US CPI on Wednesday the highlight. Look for US CPI at 2.4%, with emerging markets likely to take a knock if this is the case. Locally, we’ll be eyeing public sector wage negotiations, with Union demanding CPI + 3%. It will be interesting to see how President Ramaphosa handles this hot potato. Have a great week folks.

Today’s Rate

USD/ZAR 12.0409
GBP/ZAR 16.9866
EUR/ZAR 14.7793
ZAR/JPY 8.8940
CNY/ZAR 1.9080
AUD/ZAR 9.2384
CHF/ZAR 12.5519
AED/ZAR 3.2787
SGD/ZAR 9.1646
NOK/ZAR 1.5422
EUR/USD 1.2276
GBP/USD 1.406
GBP/EUR 1.1492

All rates quoted are the interbank rates at time of publishing and shown for indicative purposes only. It is important to note that foreign exchange rates fluctuate and that the rates will vary depending on the amount and product purchased and sold.

Author: Don V