The South African rand traded broadly unchanged against the U.S. dollar on Monday as investors awaited the release of manufacturing activity and vehicle sales figures, which could provide fresh insights into the health of Africa's largest economy.
At 0626 GMT, the rand traded at 16.6965 against the dollar, little changed from its previous closing level.
Market attention was focused on the Absa Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI), scheduled for release at 0900 GMT, which is expected to provide an indication of operating conditions in South Africa's manufacturing sector.
Manufacturing sentiment improved in September following three consecutive months of contraction, supported by a recovery in new orders.
Investors were also awaiting October vehicle sales figures, due around 1200 GMT, as an indicator of consumer demand for high-value goods.
Nedbank economists expect vehicle sales growth to have moderated to 11.2% from 12.7% in September, citing rising fuel prices and interest rates as potential pressures on consumer spending.
Meanwhile, South Africa's benchmark 2035 government bond remained flat in early trading, with its yield holding at 8.59%.
Source: Reuters
Reporting: Sfundo Parakozov
Editing: Nivedita Bhattacharjee
