South Africa inflation edges up but economists see more rate cuts soon

The recent decline of the US dollar has surprised many economists, especially after the imposition of tariffs that were expected to strengthen it. Instead, the dollar has struggled while dollar-denominated assets like stocks and US Treasuries have performed well. This shift raises important questions about the future of the dollar and the strategies investors might adopt to hedge their exposure. In a conversation with Hyun Song-Shin from the Bank for International Settlements, we explore the implications of these trends and what they mean for the global economy.

PrimeXBT has made a significant move by appointing Kearabilwe Nonyana as their new VIP Account Manager in South Africa. This appointment is crucial as it reflects the company's commitment to enhancing its services and support for high-value clients in the region. Nonyana's expertise in finance is expected to strengthen PrimeXBT's presence and reputation in the competitive South African market, ultimately benefiting clients seeking tailored financial solutions.

South Africa is grappling with a significant shortage of air-traffic controllers, which is reportedly jeopardizing the quality of service provided by the state-owned entity responsible for managing the country's airspace. This crisis not only affects air travel safety but also raises concerns about the efficiency of the aviation sector, highlighting the urgent need for solutions to ensure reliable air traffic management.

Recent meetings among Turkish central bankers have led investors to anticipate a more gradual approach to interest rate cuts. This shift in strategy is significant as it reflects the central bank's efforts to balance economic growth with inflation control, which is crucial for maintaining investor confidence and stability in the Turkish economy.

The outsourcing sector in South Africa is experiencing remarkable growth as local firms take on remote work for businesses in North America and Europe. This trend not only boosts the economy but also creates job opportunities, showcasing South Africa's potential as a competitive player in the global market. As companies seek cost-effective solutions, South African firms are stepping up, making this sector a new goldmine for the nation.

Fulton Financial has reported a strong performance in Q3 2025, with net interest margin (NIM) expansion contributing to an earnings beat, even amidst recent rate cuts. This is significant as it highlights the bank's ability to adapt and thrive in a challenging economic environment, reassuring investors and stakeholders about its financial health and strategic direction.

South Africa's inflation rate has risen to 3.4% in September, which is below what many analysts had anticipated. This development is significant as it reflects the ongoing economic conditions in the country, providing insights into consumer prices and purchasing power. Understanding inflation trends is crucial for policymakers and businesses alike, as it influences interest rates and economic growth.

Indonesia's central bank has decided to pause its rate cuts, signaling a cautious approach to monetary policy amid ongoing economic challenges. This decision is significant as it reflects the bank's assessment of the current economic landscape and its commitment to maintaining stability. By holding rates steady, the central bank aims to balance growth and inflation, which is crucial for the country's financial health.

European companies are coming together to create a competitive alternative to SpaceX, with Airbus emphasizing the importance of taking action rather than remaining passive. This collaboration could enhance Europe's position in the space industry and foster innovation, making it a significant development for the future of space exploration.

Deutsche Bank has upgraded CME Group's stock to a 'Buy' rating, citing anticipated growth in prediction markets. This upgrade is significant as it reflects confidence in CME Group's potential to capitalize on the expanding market for predictive analytics, which could lead to increased trading volumes and revenue. Investors may find this a promising opportunity as the demand for accurate forecasting tools continues to rise.

The Republic of Estonia has announced that it will not undertake stabilization measures for its recent €500 million bond issue. This decision raises concerns among investors about the potential volatility and risks associated with the bond, as stabilization typically helps to manage price fluctuations in the market. The lack of such measures could lead to increased uncertainty for those looking to invest in Estonian bonds, which is significant given the current economic climate.

Blackstone Inc. has reached a significant milestone, accumulating $508 billion in credit assets after an impressive 18% surge. This growth highlights the firm's strategic focus on higher-grade debt investing, which is crucial for maintaining stability and attracting investors in a fluctuating market. As one of the leading players in private capital, Blackstone's success not only reflects its robust investment strategies but also signals confidence in the credit market's potential.

Union Pacific, a major railroad operator, has reported a rise in its quarterly profit, showcasing the company's strong performance in the transportation sector. This increase is significant as it reflects the growing demand for freight services and the company's effective management strategies. Investors and stakeholders will be keen to see how this trend continues, as it could indicate a robust economic recovery and increased activity in the logistics industry.

Wall Street futures have dipped as investors take a cautious approach in light of recent earnings reports and ongoing trade risks. This decline reflects the uncertainty in the market, as traders weigh the implications of corporate performance against potential economic challenges. Understanding these trends is crucial for investors looking to navigate the complexities of the current financial landscape.