Policy rates could be reduced in future if current trends continue: Central Bank

Apr 08, 2019 (LBO) – Monetary Board of the Central Bank today said that they are of the view that, if the current trends in global financial markets, trade balance, and credit growth continue, policy interest rates could be reduced in the period ahead, given well-anchored inflation and inflation expectations. Projections, as well as inflation expectations, indicate that inflation is likely to remain within the desired range of 4-6 percent in 2019 and beyond, with appropriate policy adjustments.

Credit to the private sector showed a net repayment to licensed commercial banks during the month of January 2019, followed by a marginal increase in February 2019.

 Going forward, a growth of around 13.5 percent is expected in private sector credit in 2019. A gradual downward adjustment in market interest rates is expected, following the improved market liquidity conditions, the Central Bank said. Yields on government securities have declined considerably so far in 2019. In spite of these developments, other market interest rates continued to remain at high levels thus far in 2019. The Central Bank said it will consider and implement mechanisms for more effective transmission of the decline of these benchmark rates to other market interest rates. Press Conference Presentation April 2019 Final