Rand Falls as Power Crisis and Dollar Strength Dent South African Economy

South African rand lost ground against a resurgent dollar, weighing on markets.
Investors focused on upcoming inflation data to determine if interest rates hikes are working.
Widespread power outages threaten to push South Africa's economy into recession.
Finance minister insists the country will avoid recession, denies further bailouts for power utility.
Bleak economic prospects for the year ahead due to record blackouts during winter.