South Africa: Inflation Moderates, but Economic Challenges Persist, Capping Stocks

Today’s market analysis on behalf of Daniel Wesonga Senior Sales Manager at Pepperstone

13th December 2024

South African equities continue to trade near their recent highs, with the JSE FTSE Top 40 Index just below the 79,000 points mark as the market awaits positive catalysts. However, the market could continue to see price correction risks, with the benchmark index reflecting this, closing down 0.29% in the previous session.

South Africa’s inflation rate in November rose slightly less than expected, registering at 2.9%, just below the South African Reserve Bank’s target range of 3% to 6%. This was driven by a significant slowdown in food price inflation, although a rise in fuel prices pushed overall inflation higher. This outcome may have a mildly positive impact on market sentiment, indicating a more stable economic environment and potentially reducing market volatility.

Core inflation, excluding food and fuel prices, was recorded at 3.7%, down from 3.9% in October and below expectations. Inflation is expected to remain contained, with the South African Reserve Bank potentially considering further rate cuts. Such a move could support the bond market and the local currency. Despite upward pressure from fuel prices, the overall economic outlook remains relatively stable, potentially supporting investor confidence in local equities.

Domestic equities, particularly in economically sensitive sectors, remain undervalued. Strong, dominant players in key industries are well-positioned to benefit from rising demand without requiring significant capital investment.