Archive

January 22, 2026
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Norway's Restrictive Pause Amid Inflation Dilemma

  • Norges Bank held the policy rate at 4% as expected, reiterating that cuts are likely later in 2026 but only if disinflation progresses as projected.
  • Guidance points to one or two cuts this year, but policymakers stress a restrictive stance until underlying inflation, stuck near 3%, moves closer to the 2% target.
  • A March cut looks unlikely; the path and timing of easing hinge on labour market softening, cost pressures, and krone moves ahead of new forecasts in March.
December 18, 2025
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Norges Hold at 4%: Steady Course

  • The Norges Bank held rates steady at 4% as expected, signalling no urgency for cuts despite modest economic slack, as persistent underlying inflation near 3% and krone depreciation constraints remain material risks.
  • The forward rate path of 1–2 cuts in 2026 and a gradual decline to ~3% by 2028 reflects cautious normalisation rather than large-scale easing, with wage growth and exchange rate dynamics conditioning policy sequencing.
  • International trade uncertainty and the trajectory of global tariffs present asymmetric risks that justify patience. Future cuts depend critically on evidence of genuine disinflation and moderation in cost growth ahead.
November 06, 2025
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Inflation Persistence Constrains Norges Bank

  • The Norges Bank held rates at 4% as expected. Core inflation at 3% constrains further cuts despite emerging economic slack in the coming year.
  • Governor Bache stressed the bank is "not in a hurry" to cut rates, projecting one reduction annually through 2028. Cuts depend on disinflation progressing as forecast.
  • December's new forecasts will be critical—faster disinflation or sharper labour market weakness could accelerate cuts, while persistent inflation could keep rates higher for longer.
September 18, 2025
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Norway's Hawkish Cut Slows Rate Path

  • The Norges Bank cut rates 25bp to 4% as expected, but signalled slower easing than June projections, revising the rate path 20-40bp higher across 2026.
  • Committee projects one rate cut annually for three years to a terminal rate above 3% by 2028, reflecting stronger growth and persistent inflation pressures.
  • The decision balances economic support with anti-inflation credibility amid trade uncertainty and 4.5% wage growth expectations, constraining future cuts.

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