The ECB has decided to maintain the reference interest rate at 2% for the fourth consecutive time, adopting an optimistic tone regarding the eurozone economy. ECB President Christine Lagarde stated that there were no discussions about increases or decreases in interest rates, and all council members were unanimous in keeping all options open. The ECB has revised upward its economic growth forecasts, now estimating a growth of 1.4% for 2024, compared to 1.2% previously.
Additionally, the estimates for GDP in 2026 have been adjusted to 1.2%. Lagarde emphasized that the economy has been resilient, with positive developments in consumption and exports. Annual inflation remained steady at 2.1%, and the ECB estimates inflation of 1.9% for 2026, considering that price increases in the services sector will slow down more gradually.
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