The RMB/BER business confidence index in South Africa held steady at 45 in Q1 2025, marking a near three-year high. Despite this, four out of five sectors saw declines in confidence, although new vehicle dealers reported a substantial 29-point increase.
The RMB/BER business confidence index in South Africa maintained a stable reading of 45 in the first quarter of 2025, representing the highest figure observed in nearly three years. This level slightly exceeds the long-term average of 43 and is a significant improvement compared to the sentiment recorded at the beginning of the previous year.
Despite these positive indicators, it is noteworthy that four out of five sectors experienced a decrease in confidence compared to the fourth quarter of 2024. However, a notable exception was in the new vehicle dealers sector, which experienced a remarkable 29-point increase in confidence, aiding in offsetting the declines seen in other sectors.
In conclusion, the stability of the RMB/BER business confidence index at 45 reflects a significant improvement in South African business sentiment. While most sectors face a decline in confidence, the new vehicle dealers’ sector stands out with a notable increase. This mixed sentiment suggests a cautiously optimistic outlook for the South African economy moving forward.
Original Source: www.tradingview.com
