Trade Alerts: SA Rates and BoC Decision

Trade Alerts: SA Rates and BoC Decision

South Africa is expected to maintain its key interest rates due to persistent inflationary pressures, while the Bank of Canada could cut interest rates next week to alleviate price pressures in the housing market.

South African Inflation

South Africa is expected to maintain its key interest rates at 8.25% and 27.25% on Thursday, citing persistent inflationary pressures. Central bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago has emphasized that rate reductions are unlikely until inflation sustainably returns to the 4.5% midpoint of the target range. Despite annual inflation holding at 5.2% in May, it has remained above this midpoint for over three years. Kganyago, in the central bank’s annual report last month, stressed the importance of restoring confidence in their ability to achieve this target.

Bank of Canada Decision

The Canadian Dollar (CAD) weakened on Wednesday as investors reassessed Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation data released earlier in the week. While headline inflation figures showed a decline due to easing pressures in heavily weighted measures, core inflation gauges remained elevated. The Bank of Canada (BoC) is set to announce its latest rate decision next week.

Canada’s central bank is anticipated to cut interest rates next Wednesday in a bid to ease price pressures in the housing investment market. The real estate sector accounts for about 9% of Canada’s total economic output, nearly double the OECD average of 4.8%.