Business · Economy · 30 mins ago

Bank of England expected to raise rates to 4% as inflation rises

Bank of England expected to raise rates to 4% as inflation rises

The Bank of England is expected to raise interest rates at its next decision on Thursday, November 5.

Markets expect the rate to rise from 3.75% to 4%, which would be the first increase since August 2023.

The decision is made by the Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee, which has been weighing whether borrowing costs are high enough to slow inflation.

UK inflation reached 3.5% in September, above the Bank’s 2% target.

Higher fuel and household energy costs are adding to price pressures, with the conflict in the Middle East also pushing up petrol and diesel prices.

A rate rise would make borrowing more expensive for households and businesses, while aiming to limit further price increases.

The committee will announce its decision on November 5; the articles describe a possible increase, not a decision already made.

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What people are saying

Ellie HendersonInvestec analyst
We imagine that many committee members’ patience with the recent rise in inflation has worn thin.
via Evening Standard
The longer energy prices remain elevated, the greater the risk that a temporary price shock becomes more permanent; a ‘risk management’ hike could guard against this.
via Evening Standard
Suren ThiruICAEW chief economist
interest rate rise to 4% looks all but certain
via Evening Standard
John HealeyChancellor
take the pressure off in the coldest months and see people through to the spring
via Guardian