The South African rand appreciated modestly on Friday following the release of higher-than-expected inflation data in the United States, while investors continued to monitor escalating geopolitical tensions between the United States and Iran and developments in South Africa’s proposed gambling tax. The rand traded at R16.08 against the US dollar on Friday, approximately 0.4% stronger than Thursday’s close, after remaining relatively stable earlier in the session.
As of Monday, 23 February, the rand is trading at R16.02 to the dollar, R21.65 to the pound, and R18.93 to the euro. The movement follows the release of the United States Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) index, the Federal Reserve’s preferred measure of inflation. The index rose by 0.4% month-on-month in December, exceeding economists’ expectations of a 0.3% increase. Higher US inflation may influence future interest rate decisions, which often impact emerging market currencies, including the rand.
Investor sentiment was also shaped by renewed tensions between the United States and Iran. US President Donald Trump warned Iran to reach an agreement regarding its nuclear programme within 10 days or face serious consequences. Market analysts caution that further escalation could disrupt global oil production, adding upward pressure to energy prices and inflation.
Brent crude oil rose to $72.00 per barrel overnight, while gold is currently trading at $5,156.8 per ounce. On the domestic front, the Johannesburg Stock Exchange’s Top 40 index was up 1.3%, reflecting positive momentum in major listed shares. The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition is drafting new regulations on gambling advertising, expected to be published by July 2026.
The National Treasury has proposed a 20% tax on gross gaming revenue. A National Gambling Amendment Bill before Parliament aims to strengthen national oversight, improve enforcement, establish a register of unlawful operators, and enhance consumer protection. Fuel recoveries have deteriorated in the third week of February, indicating a likely increase in petrol and diesel prices in March 2026. Rising global oil prices are contributing to the negative outlook.
Construction of Akademia’s R3.2 billion Christian Afrikaans university commenced in January 2026. The 220-hectare Mooiplaats campus will accommodate approximately 5,000 undergraduate and 1,500 postgraduate students. The project is funded through tuition and accommodation fees.Sean Summers, Group CEO of Pick n Pay, is set to assume the role of chairperson at Boxer. While Boxer has delivered strong performance, Pick n Pay has reported cumulative losses amounting to billions since 2024.
New research from the University of the Free State has found that sanitary pads and pantyliners tested contain hormone-disrupting chemicals, despite being marketed as free from harmful substances. The findings have raised concerns regarding consumer safety and long-term health implications.
