Johannesburg - The rand strengthened on Monday, firming with fellow emerging market currencies as risk demand recovered globally and data suggested an improving local economic outlook.
At 5pm, the rand was bid at R12.9734 to the dollar, 12.29c stronger than at the same time on Friday, dipping below the psychological important R13 mark for the first time in three sessions.
Demand for emerging market currencies was also helped by waning fears over the Chinese economy after officials cut their growth expectations for this year slightly but said they would implement reforms to address a possible debt crisis.
Domestic data showing an improved manufacturing outlook and higher maize yields has eased pressure on the rand, with economic growth data due today expected to support signs of a gentle recovery.