Market insights
The JSE All Share closed the week at 111 778.12 increasing by 1.79%. The biggest contributing sector was the basic materials sector, adding 4.83%, while the technology sector decreased by 3.73% during the same period.
Looking globally, developed markets decreased by 1.46% (USD) during the week and while emerging markets decreased by 1.78% (USD) during the same period
Local events
* South Africa’s consumer confidence improved to ‑7 in Q1 2026, the highest since late 2024, supported by lower rates and stronger markets, though downside risks from geopolitics remain
* The SARB held the repo rate at 6.75% in March 2026, citing rising energy‑driven inflation risks. Inflation forecasts were revised higher and the expected easing path reduced to one cut, signalling a more cautious policy stance.
* South Africa faces sharp 1 April fuel hikes, with petrol up over R5 and diesel up more than R10, driven by surging global oil prices amid Middle East conflict.
Global events
* Crude oil jumped above $115 as the Strait of Hormuz’s effective closure choked a fifth of global energy flows, stoking inflation and growth fears.
* US jobless claims held at 210K, signalling a firm labour market, lifting rate expectations and pressuring emerging markets as investors reassessed easing prospects.
* Gold slumped over 11% this month while platinum fell sharply, signalling broad metal market weakness that underscores deteriorating demand across global commodity markets.
* Eurozone consumer confidence weakened in March, signalling softer household demand across a major global trading bloc and reinforcing concerns over slowing international growth.
Thanks to PPS Investments for the weekly Market Insights.
Financial Indicators by Sharedata.co.za
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