Money SA economy
The JSE opened slightly higher on Friday, following world markets which have responded well to positive US economic data.
But the underlying tone indicated that there was caution ahead of the release of the US nonfarm payrolls later today, an equities trader said.
By 9.17am local time the JSE all share index had gained 0.13%, with gold miners rising 0.53% and resources edging up 0.14%. But platinum miners fell 0.06%. Banks were up 0.19%, financials added 0.22% and industrials firmed 0.07%. Gold was quoted at $1 252.41/oz from $1 251.72/oz at the JSE's previous close, while platinum was at $1 554.50/oz from $1 551.50/oz before.
The equity trader said continuing positive data from the US, which has cheered global markets, has underpinned the positive mood for local equities. He added the market would likely remain slightly up, but caution may prevail ahead of the release of the US nonfarm payrolls later.
Dow Jones Newswires reports that Asian stock markets were modestly higher on Friday as another positive finish on Wall Street lifted sentiment, with technology plays leading markets in Tokyo and Seoul.
European stocks also opened slightly higher, but gains are likely to be limited as investors keep to the sidelines ahead of the nonfarm payrolls.
On the JSE, Anglo American lost 16 cents to R275.34, but Sasol rose R1.55 to R285.15 and BHP Billiton gained nine cents to R212.00.
