South African rand edges up ahead of month-end economic data

JOHANNESBURG, Sept 30 (Reuters) - The South African rand edged up in early trade on Wednesday ahead of a batch of month-end domestic economic data that could provide fresh signals on the health of Africa's largest economy.

• At 0716 GMT the rand traded at 16.3575 against the dollar , up roughly 0.3% from its previous close.

• Data from the South African Reserve Bank showed M3 money supply growth accelerated to 8.89% in August from 8.57% in July. Private sector credit growth rose to 7.47% from 7.41% in July, exceeding the 6.90% forecast in a Reuters poll.

• Later on Wednesday, the National Treasury, Statistics South Africa and the South African Revenue Service are due to release budget balance ZABUDM=ECI, producer inflation ZAPPIY=ECI and trade balance ZATBAL=ECI figures respectively.

• On the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, the Top-40 index .JTOPI was flat in early trade.

• South Africa's benchmark 2035 government bond strengthened, as the yield fell 7 basis points to 8.765%.

• In common with other risk-sensitive currencies, the rand often takes cues from global drivers such as US economic indicators and monetary policy.

• The greenback softened against a basket of currencies as investors awaited US inflation data for clues on the Federal Reserve's next policy move. The US personal consumption expenditures price index is due at 1230 GMT.