Abstract:The South African Rand is testing the psychological 16.00 level against the US Dollar amid a recovery in global risk sentiment and commodity prices, though structural energy concerns persist.

The South African Rand (ZAR) is testing the 16.00 level against the USD as global markets recover, though domestic energy reform concerns and grid stability issues at Eskom persist.
The ZAR appreciation tracks a broader recovery in global indices. With mining houses like Impala Platinum updating markets, focus remains on resource exports and PGMs pricing.
The utility Eskom remains a risk factor. Challenges include unbundling strategies, lower gas supplies from Mozambique, and the fragility of the grid despite the solar capacity growth seen in 2025.