JSE firmer on hopes Covid-19 is peaking
The JSE was firmer on Thursday as investor risk sentiment improved on hopes that the coronavirus pandemic is nearing its peak, with some countries preparing to ease some restrictions. Wuhan, the Chinese city where the virus emerged, ended its more than twomonth lockdown on Wednesday, but many officials across the world remain nervous about the pace of infections and deaths, reported Reuters. At 11.50am, the JSE all share had firmed 1.41% to 47,348.38 points and the top 40 1.05%. Banks were up 5.93%, financials 4.16%, platinums 4.55% and gold miners 2.87%. Gold had gained 0.96% to $1,660.60/oz, while platinum had gained 0.99% to $737.69. Brent crude was up 1.67% to $34.14 a barrel.
Markets will be closed on Friday for the public holiday.