Over the past week, the indicators have pointed in different directions and worked against each other. Concerns about the war in the Middle East sent the price of Brent crude oil higher, but then it fell due to concerns about global demand. The price of coal rose even though the markets were disappointed with the Chinese stimulus package. And because of the stronger dollar, the gold price was weaker.

This episode is supported by the Bureau of Economic Research in Stellenbosch and the NWU Business School.