The South African rand remained steady in early trade ahead of the release of local inflation data, which is expected to reflect pressures from the Middle East war. The country's inflation data (ZACPIY=ECI) will be published at around 0800 GMT, with analysts expecting it to accelerate to ⁠3.9% year on year, up from 3.1% in March. Economists predict a higher reading of 4.4%, driven by a sharp increase in transport costs due to rising fuel prices. Statistics South Africa will also release retail sales numbers, which are expected to be released at around 1100 GMT.