South Africa Consumer Confidence Improves Slightly Amid Economic Risks And Global Uncertainty
Written by: BizCommunity Editor Save to Instapaper
Source: Reuters.
The consumer confidence index, sponsored by First National Bank (FNB) and compiled by the Bureau for Economic Research, improved to a minus 7 points from minus 9 in the fourth quarter.
“Unfortunately, the ripple effects from the Iranian war may well see a U-turn in high- and middle-income confidence during the second quarter,” said FNB chief economist Mamello Matikinca-Ngwenya.
South Africa's central bank is due to announce its interest-rate decision on Thursday, 26 March 2026 as it weighs the impact a weak stock market, falling rand and surging oil prices could have on the economy.
The first-quarter survey, which was conducted before the conflict started in late February, showed improved confidence among high-income households supported by lower interest rates, soaring stock prices and a stronger rand exchange rate.
However, confidence among low-income households deteriorated further from the previous quarter, due to disappointing employment growth towards the end of 2025 and tighter compliance measures in the social grant system.
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