Retailers end on top of gains

THE JSE closed slightly higher yesterday as global markets shrugged off the news of the day‚ with retailers leading the gains based on a strong performance by Shoprite.

Trade was again subdued at R11billion compared to the usual daily average of R24-billion.

Local corporate news was light with rand hedges performing well‚ while diversified miners fared worst. The rand was flat‚ albeit at a six-month low.

The all-share gained 0.11% to 58 207.8 points and the top-40 rose 0.14%. Food and drug retailers gained 0.96%‚ financials 0.41% and industrials 0.33%. Resources fell 0.66%.

Gold was flat at $1 299/oz. Platinum was 0.25% higher at $904.72/oz. Brent crude gained 0.21% to $76.56.

At 2.55pm the rand was at R13.16/$ from R13.17/$‚ at R15.52/à from R15.52/à and at R17.60/£ from R17.62/£. —