S.Africa's rand, bonds edge higher in thin trade

JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - South Africa's rand edged higher against the dollar and government bonds were also firmer in thin trading on Friday as domestic markets closed early ahead of an extended weekend. The bond exchange has been finishing earlier than usual as the year draws to a close and Johannesburg currency traders also closed early at around 1000 GMT on Friday, ahead of the Christmas weekend. Local financial markets will be closed on Monday and Tuesday for public holidays. By 1343 GMT, the rand traded at 8.1585 against the greenback, up 0.42 percent from the previous close of 8. ...