Local markets - 10.3

The JSE Securities Exchange SA (JSE) extended its losing streak yesterday as fears about economic growth and overheated commodity prices spurred profit-taking, with mining giant BHP Billiton hit the hardest.

BHP Billiton, the world's largest mining group, was the biggest loser among the top 40 blue chips, sliding 3,2% to R60,01.

The all share index lost 0,94% to 10 896,26, the fifth successive day of losses since touching an intra-day 20-month peak on Wednesday last week.

Bonds ended weak yesterday on the back of profit-taking as the rally since Friday ran out of steam.

At 4.16pm, the six-year R153 bond was at 9,390% from 9,320% on Tuesday, 9,370% at Friday's close and 9,540% at Thursday's close, while the five-year R194 bond was at 9,300% from 9,220% at Tuesday's close.

The 11-year R157 bond was at 9,540% after closing at 9,470% on Tuesday.BHP Billiton, the world's largest mining group, was the biggest loser among the top 40 blue chips, sliding 3,2% to R60,01.

The all share index lost 0,94% to 10 896,26, the fifth successive day of losses since touching an intra-day 20-month peak on Wednesday last week.

Bonds ended weak yesterday on the back of profit-taking as the rally since Friday ran out of steam.

At 4.16pm, the six-year R153 bond was at 9,390% from 9,320% on Tuesday, 9,370% at Friday's close and 9,540% at Thursday's close, while the five-year R194 bond was at 9,300% from 9,220% at Tuesday's close.

The 11-year R157 bond was at 9,540% after closing at 9,470% on Tuesday.