Archive for March 3rd, 2008

Daily Archive
Monday, March 3rd, 2008

Investec Purchasing Managers Index contracts sharply


By Andre Roux
The seasonally adjusted Investec PMI sunk to 46.4 in February, well below the critical level of 50. In all likelihood, the decline reflects not only the effect of a softening real economy, but also the impact of the electricity crisis on the sector.
Both output and new sales orders contracted during the month and [...]

No Comments » - Posted in South Africa by Prieur du Plessis
Monday, March 3rd, 2008

South Africa’s current account deficit points to rand weakness


By Kevin Lings
In January 2008, South Africa’s trade account recorded another large deficit of R10.2 billion. The market was expecting a deficit of around R8 billion, although the trade balance is notoriously difficult to forecast.
During January 2008, exports fell by a substantial 7.6%, while imports rose by a significant 13.1% m/m. The increase in [...]

No Comments » - Posted in South Africa by Prieur du Plessis