Weekly Review

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Impumelelo Economic Growth Lab

Weekly Review

The BER Weekly Review provides in-depth, data-driven insights into the South African and global economies. Alongside the latest statistics, we cover key financial market developments and explain what matters - from monetary policy decisions to broader policy shifts and economic drivers. Each issue also looks ahead to the coming week, highlighting events and data releases that are likely to shape the economic and market outlook. From 2026, the Review includes a concise South African political update. It is available to Premium Insights and Essential Insights subscribers.

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A week of pauses, pressures and price surges

Date Uploaded: January 30 2026 07:00


Central banks paused, markets moved sharply, and geopolitics stayed front and centre this week. The SARB and Fed both held rates as policymakers emphasised caution amid persistent uncertainty, while a weaker dollar fuelled large swings in precious metals and supported the rand. Domestically, the focus also turned to the criminal justice system, as a new head at the NPA will inherit a complex agenda amid heightened scrutiny of crime, corruption and institutional reform.