Description
Face-Ripping Rally on the JSE: Surge attributed to the formation of a coalition government involving ANC, DA, and IFP. Top 40 index rose 3.5%, a significant increase not seen since February 2018. The rally, likened to the start of a marathon, suggests potential long-term growth, despite possible volatility. RAND and Resource Stocks: RAND trading under 18, affecting resources positively. Potential for RAND to strengthen further, possibly reaching 17. Coalition Government and Market Impacts: The coalition’s stability is uncertain but critical for long-term market confidence. JP Morgan upgraded South Africa from underweight to overweight, signaling positive outlooks. SA Inc Stocks and ETFs: Retailers like Shoprite*, Mr. Price*, Foschini Group*, and Truworths hitting 52-week highs. ETFs for local investors, focusing on SA Inc.. Recommendations include avoiding heavy Rand Hedge dual-listed miners in a strong RAND environment. RSA Retail Savings Bonds: Interest rates for RSA Retail Savings Bonds to drop in July. Current rates: 11.5% for a 5-year bond, expected to decrease to 10.75%. Opportunity to reset bonds before the rate change on the 20th of the month. Inflation and Interest Rates: Local CPI stable at 5.2%, within the target band but aiming for 4.5%. US FOMC holds rates steady, hinting at a possible future rate cut. Prospects for lower local interest rates and their impact on retail stocks and disposable income. Market Opportunities: Interest in retailers and brokers like Purple Group* and PSG Konsult, considering the potential increase in disposable income and trading volumes. Positive long-term outlook, but caution against immediate full investment. Simon Brown
* I hold ungeared positions.
Local Inflation Update Inflation at 3.8% - lowest since March 2021 (3.5 years ago) Well below SARB's target range midpoint of 4.5% Q3 year-on-year inflation at 4.3% (vs SARB's expected 4.4%) SA CPI YonY September 2024
November MPC Meeting Outlook Rate cut expected, but size uncertain...
Published 10/24/24
Strong Retail Sales and the Two-Pot System: Retail sales show a positive trend, rising 3.2% in August, exceeding expectations of 2.1%. The Two-Pot System has already released R20 billion in six weeks, with the money used mainly for paying down debt, saving, and spending. Retail sales...
Published 10/17/24