China takes steps to stimulate the economy; SA’s economic data remains weak

Loading player...
China’s authorities last week unveiled a series of measures designed to stabilize the property sector and stimulate consumer spending. These measures included a cut in banks’ reserve requirements and in interest rates. Financial markets were encouraged, having expected any policy stimulus would only follow the US presidential election.

Sentiment in SA has improved since the May election and this is reflected in markets and the currency. But recent economic indicators are lackluster, e.g. building plans, mining production and job creation. Positive sentiment needs to be translated into improved investment and higher employment, which would systematically uplift economic performance.
30 Sep 2024 English South Africa Investing · Business News

Other recent episodes

SARB makes cautious 25 bps rate cut but next US rate cut is uncertain

In this podcast, STANLIB’s Chief Economist, Kevin Lings, considers the factors that are restraining SA’s inflation rate and have influenced the Reserve Bank in cutting the benchmark interest rate by 25 bps at its latest meeting. He also analyses latest US jobs data, which showed an increase in unemployment to…
24 Nov 16 min

Will AI boom become AI bust?

In the seventh episode of our “The More You Know” series, Mark Lovett, STANLIB Head of Investments, shares his experience of other market bubbles to help put the current AI hype into context. He emphasises the need for investors to identify the winners and losers in this new technology wave…
18 Nov 21 min

S&P surprises with positive outlook for SA

In this podcast, STANLIB’s Chief Economist, Kevin Lings, examines the reasons why S&P decided to revise SA’s credit rating from BB- to BB, while Fitch kept its rating unchanged. SA’s weak GDP growth rate remains a concern for all credit rating agencies but while S&P took a more positive view,…
17 Nov 16 min

Seven positive aspects of the MTBPS that will encourage investors

In this podcast, STANLIB Asset Management Chief Economist, Kevin Lings, explores seven key positive aspects of the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) that indicate government finances are moving into a better position. These points will encourage both investors and credit rating agencies. He also discusses the implications of SA moving…
12 Nov 20 min