Gauteng government ramps up security at liquor stores, and R2 billion owed by municipalities in South Africa
The rand reached a seven-month low on Friday as investors assessed US producer inflation data and prepared for the upcoming local inflation report and the central bank’s interest rate decision.
The rand was trading at 16.9750 against the dollar, which is approximately 1.2% lower than its previous close.
This decline brings it close to the 17-per-dollar mark, its weakest level since April.
US producer prices saw an increase in October, reflecting the largest annual growth in four years and reinforcing expectations that the Federal Reserve may continue to raise interest rates after next month’s widely anticipated hike.
Like other risk-sensitive currencies, the rand is often influenced by global factors, including US economic data and monetary policy.
Statistics South Africa is set to release the consumer inflation data for October on Wednesday, followed by the South African Reserve Bank’s monetary policy decision on Thursday.
During its September meeting, the central bank raised interest rates by 25 basis points, citing persistent price pressures stemming from the war in Iran and the need for tighter policy to keep inflation expectations in check.
On the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, the Top-40 index was down 0.7% at the last check. [Reuters]
On Sunday, 15 November 2026, the rand was trading at R16.98 to the dollar, R22.36 to the pound, and R18.66 to the euro. Gold is trading at $3,878.55, while oil prices are at $95.84 a barrel.
5 important things happening in South Africa today
Gauteng government ramps up security at liquor stores: The Gauteng government has deployed 80 liquor wardens to enhance the enforcement of liquor laws and improve community safety. The wardens will collaborate with the Gauteng Liquor Board and police to monitor compliance at licensed liquor outlets. [SABC]
R2 billion owed by municipalities: South Africa’s municipal pension system is under scrutiny due to municipalities’ unpaid contributions totalling approximately R2 billion. Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana revealed this in response to a question from Andrew Bateman, a Member of the National Assembly. [Newsday]
Mercedes fights group’s closures: Mercedes-Benz Group’s labour leaders are opposing the closure of German plants amid rising tensions with management over costs and working hours ahead of pay negotiations. [TopAuto]
Major strides for South Africa’s livestock: Over 90% of South Africa’s cattle have been vaccinated against foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), surpassing the government’s target of 80% by the end of December 2026. [Citizen]
Warning for people living in Cape Town: Cape Town may face increased water pressure as dam levels decline and the El Niño weather pattern develops. The Department of Water and Sanitation has noted a downward trend in storage levels in the Western Cape Water Supply System, although levels remain stable for now. [DailyInvestor]
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