
ECB Holds 2% Rate as Energy Shock Tests Inflation Outlook
The ECB keeps its 2% policy rate for the sixth straight meeting as surging energy prices push near-term inflation higher, with 2026 inflation seen around 2.6% and growth trimmed to 0.9% this year; policymakers expect inflation to ease toward 2% in 2027–28, while the war in the Middle East adds uncertainty and traders still anticipate potential rate moves later in the year, and the euro rose after the decision.












