SA inflation data and the effect of Trump’s tariff and policy announcements on the US economy

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In January 2025, SA inflation increased slightly to 3.2%, which is at the lower end of the Reserve Bank target and at levels that have been under control for some time. Inflation is expected to track higher from mid-year, possibly to 4.7% by the end of December. This means the Reserve Bank can easily keep rates on hold with a slight bias to the downside.
With US President Donald Trump’s announcement of tariffs affecting Mexico, Canada and China, and increased uncertainty about the progression of the Russia-Ukraine war, evidence is mounting that uncertainty is undermining the US economy. There is a significant falloff in confidence, while inflation expectations are ratcheting up, and consumer spending declined in January.
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3 Mar English South Africa Investing · Business News

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