ECB KEEPS INTEREST RATES ON HOLD
- 
The European Central Bank (ECB) kept its deposit rate unchanged at 2%, as expected by the market.
 The ECB has cut its key interest rate eight times in the past 12 months, starting in June 2024.
 Inflation is close to the ECB's 2% target.➤ Forecasts are for 2.1% in 2025, 1.7% in 2026 and 1.9% in 2027.
➤ Core inflation (excluding food and energy costs) is expected to remain at 2.4% in 2024.
 Economic growth in the euro area remains weak.
➤ The economy grew just 0.1% in the second quarter, compared to 0.6% in the first quarter. ➤ Growth is now forecast at 1.2% in 2025 (up from 0.9%) and 1% in 2026.
 - 
And what do you think this will lead to?
 - 
The ECB holding steady at 2% shows they’re comfortable with inflation nearing target, even as growth remains sluggish.
 - 
ECB holding rates steady at 2% shows they’re prioritizing stability
️ With weak growth and inflation near target, it feels like they’re walking a fine line — avoiding recession risks but not loosening too early. 2025–2026 could be defined by slow, careful recovery. 
️
 
