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Assets May Inflate Like It’s ‘98

• Rate cuts are rare outside of recessionary regimes. The 1998 experience seems a more similar historical example for the BoE than 1989 or 2005, when its policy diverged.
• CPI inflation will probably be less benign because wage growth is much higher, so sterling may not stay as stable. The speed of possible policy reversal would be critical.
• Loosening monetary conditions when the real economy doesn’t need it risks stimulating a financial bubble. Carefully hedged investments would help avoid the eventual bust.

By Philip Rush

Philippines Policy Rate 6.5% (consensus 6.5%) in May-24

• The BSP maintained its policy rate at 6.5%, aligning with the consensus forecast, reflecting a balanced approach amid persistent inflationary pressures and moderated economic activity.
• While the inflation forecast for 2024 eased slightly to 3.8%, the forecast for 2025 increased to 3.7%, indicating persistent inflation risks from higher transport, food, electricity, and oil prices.
• The BSP's restrictive policy stance aims to anchor inflation expectations and ensure price stability, with readiness to adjust policy settings as necessary, supported by government measures to address supply-side pressures.

Mexico Policy Rate 11.0% (consensus 11.0%) in May-24

• Banco de México held the overnight interbank interest rate at 11.00%, in line with economic consensus, reflecting continued caution amid mixed inflation signals and subdued economic growth.
• Despite a decrease in core inflation, headline inflation rose slightly, leading to an upward revision of future inflation forecasts and extending the expected timeline for achieving the 3% inflation target to the end of 2025.
• The central bank recognizes the prevailing economic and geopolitical risks, maintaining a restrictive policy stance while preparing for potential adjustments based on forthcoming economic data and inflation trends.

Malaysia Policy Rate 3.0% (consensus 3.0%) in May-24

• The decision by Bank Negara Malaysia to maintain the OPR at 3.00% aims to balance the need to support economic growth while managing domestic inflation amid complex global economic challenges, including persistent inflation and geopolitical tensions.
• Moderate inflation levels in early 2024 and a positive economic growth outlook underscore the effectiveness of the current monetary policy—however, the policy trajectory links to developments in subsidy and price control measures and global economic conditions.
• The ringgit's valuation and stabilization are critical concerns for the MPC, influenced by external monetary policies and geopolitical factors, with ongoing strategic interventions to align the currency more closely with Malaysia's economic fundamentals.