South Africa’s 10-year bond yield stayed above 8.60%, hovering around two-week highs, as traders weighed Middle East developments and growing expectations of rate hikes. Iran has reportedly floated a new proposal to reopen the key shipping route, but President Trump signaled the blockade will remain until a broader agreement is reached, while diplomatic efforts to end the conflict stalled again. Meanwhile, market participants continued to monitor policy signals and moves by major central banks. South Africa’s central bank has maintained a cautious stance in recent months, warning that external shocks, currency weakness, and persistent domestic price pressures continue to threaten inflation. March CPI stayed near the SARB’s target of 3%, but higher fuel and electricity costs could lift inflation above the target in coming months, increasing the likelihood of a rate hike. Governor Lesetja Kganyago recently cautioned that the central bank stands ready to act if price pressures intensify.

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