South African business confidence index rises in November

Reuters News

Siphiwe Sibeko, Reuters Image used for illustrative purpose only

South African business confidence rose in November, as tourism and merchandise import volumes improved in month-on-month terms, data showed on Wednesday.

The South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI) Business Confidence Index increased to 111.5 points in November from 108.6 in October.

Despite November’s increase, SACCI said in a statement that lingering economic challenges continued to drag on sentiment.

It pointed to fewer new vehicle sales, a volatile rand exchange rate and high real financing costs among factors negatively affecting business confidence in November compared to a year ago.

“The latest BCI suggests that the business climate and economic conditions didn’t provide the spark for increased confidence over the medium term,” SACCI added.

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