Rand edges higher ahead of local CPI, Fed rate decision

The South African rand edged higher in early trade on Wednesday ahead of local consumer price index (CPI) data and an interest rate announcement from leaders in the world’s biggest economy.

At 0615 GMT, the rand traded at R18.90 against the dollar.

The dollar last traded around 0.02% stronger against a basket of global currencies.

At 0800 GMT, Statistics South Africa will release the country’s August consumer inflation data.

Analysts polled by Reuters predict a 4.8% year-on-year rise in inflation, within the central bank’s target range of 3% to 6%.

The US Federal Reserve is due to announce its main interest rate decision later on Wednesday, giving hints at the health of the world’s biggest economy.

“The rand is trading solidly in tight ranges with little risk today, but tonight’s Fed should give it new multi-week direction,” said Rand Merchant Bank analysts in a research note.

Focus will be on the Fed’s tone and economic forecasts, RMB added, adding that a hawkish tone would weaken the rand.

On Thursday the South African Reserve Bank will announce its main interest rate decision.

South Africa’s benchmark 2030 government bond was slightly weaker in early deals, with the yield up 1 basis point to 10.495%.