The trade surplus widened to R10,67 billion in June from a revised R7,22 billion (previously R9,50 billion) in May.

The vehicle market improved in July, on the back of strong demand from the rental industry.

The seasonally adjusted ABSA Purchasing Managers’ Index declined by 3,8 points to 42,9 in July.

US nonfarm payrolls increased by 209 thousand in July from a 231 thousand increase in June and above market expectations of 183 thousand.

Preliminary estimates show that Eurozone GDP growth increased to 0,6% q-o-q in the second quarter from 0,5% in the first, in line with market expectations.

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee kept rates unchanged at its meeting last week – six MPC members were in favour of the rate decision, while two supported a rate hike of 25 basis points.