RBI holds repo rate steady at 6.5%, maintains focus on inflation
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has decided to maintain the repo rate at 6.5% for the ninth consecutive time. This decision comes as the central bank continues to prioritize managing inflationary pressures while supporting economic growth.
Key highlights:
- Repo rate unchanged: The RBI’s benchmark lending rate remains steady at 6.5%.
- Inflation focus: The central bank’s primary concern is to anchor inflation expectations and bring inflation within the target range.
- Economic growth projection: The RBI has likely maintained or slightly revised upwards its GDP growth forecast for the current fiscal year.
- Liquidity management: The RBI may have provided guidance on liquidity conditions and measures to ensure smooth functioning of the financial system.
The RBI’s decision to hold the repo rate reflects its continued focus on managing inflationary pressures. The upward revision in inflation projections indicates the central bank’s cautious stance. The RBI has also introduced several measures to enhance the digital payment ecosystem and improve credit information sharing. These initiatives aim to strengthen the financial system and improve access to credit.
The RBI’s monetary policy stance suggests a careful balancing act between supporting growth and containing inflation. While the repo rate remains unchanged, future policy decisions will depend on the evolving economic and inflationary landscape.