The South African (SA) Rand edged up in early trade on Friday, ahead of the release of a key United States (US) inflation report later in the day.
The Rand traded at 16.16 against the Dollar, 0.3% stronger than its previous close.
Global investor focus is on US inflation data due at 1230 GMT, as it could shape the case for a Federal Reserve rate hike next week.
On Wednesday, data showed US producer prices increased 0.4% in August, meeting market expectations as energy prices rebounded during the month.
The US Dollar last traded flat against a basket of currencies.
Oil prices fell on Friday, but both major benchmarks are on track to end the week above $100 a barrel for the first time since mid-May, as increasing attacks along key shipping routes in the Middle East fuel fears of a prolonged disruption to supplies.
In common with other risk-sensitive currencies, the rand often takes cues from global drivers such as US economic indicators and monetary policy.
On the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, the Top-40 index was up 0.3%.
SA’s benchmark 2035 government bond weakened in early deals, as the yield rose 5.5 basis points to 8.76%.
–Reuters–
