Rand report: Rand strengthens on the back of stimulus optimism (Partner Content) The rands’ momentum was briefly halted by strong dollar demand on Thursday. In addition to its safe-haven appeal, the dollar benefitted from the progress of the USD 1.9 Trillion stimulus relief plan and strong performance in the US equity market. Last week, the rand made significant gains against developed market currencies, whilst riding another wave of positive global sentiment. Emerging market currencies rallied for three consecutive days, alongside successful Covid-19 vaccination rollouts and renewed optimism about the US stimulus plan. After a partial correction on Thursday, driven by short-term dollar demand, the rand powered past the R15.00 resistance level, closing the week at R14.84 against the US dollar. The GBP/ZAR pair also traded downwards throughout the week, while emerging market equities ended in the green.