Rand follows Asian currencies firmer

The rand firmed in early trade on Friday, in line with most emerging Asian currencies as Beijing pledged more policy support to mitigate risks from a trade row with the United States.

Read: China shares halt slide as regulators pledge support

The rand was 0.29% stronger at 14.41 per dollar at 0725 GMT, having closed in New York at 14.45 on Thursday.

The currency is expected to trade between 14.25 and 14.55 to the dollar, NKC African Economics wrote in a note.

In fixed income, the yield on the benchmark government bond due in 2026 rose 4 basis points to 9.205%.

On the stock market, the Top 40 Index was down 0.31% to 45 800 points in early trade.