Growth in demand for credit slowed more than expected in September, rekindling talk of another interest rate cut.

South Africa’s retail sales contracted by a worse than expected 7% annually in August, stirring hopes for another cut in interest rates.

South Africa’s central bank should pursue its objectives of maintaining price stability regardless of political pressure, Governor Tito Mboweni said.

SA’s credit demand growth eased more than expected to a five-year low in June, reinvigorating debate about the scope for interest rate cuts.