Expert view

Commentary submitted by Katie Horne in their own words.

Back to expert views

-EconomyRates

Bank holds interest rates as energy and memory chips set to lift inflation

Katie Horne, banks relationship manager at Flagstone, said: “Although June’s CPI fell to a better than expected 2.6 per cent, a new government finding its feet and the situation in the Middle East becoming increasingly uncertain, mean that a hold on Thursday’s base rate decision is a welcome dose of stability.

“People have had more than enough uncertainty over the past year, and even a temporary pause eases the pressure a little.

“A summer hold also gives savers a genuine window to get their house in order. It’s worth checking whether you’re still getting competitive rates, whether any fixed-term accounts are approaching maturity, and whether your savings are spread sensibly, enough to avoid unnecessary risk, but flexibly enough that you’re not missing out on the best rates available.

“However, there’s growing speculation that a rate hike could be on the cards come September. A 0.25 per cent rise would take the base rate back to four per cent, right where it stood 12 months ago, and a world away from where many expected it to be by now.”

Contact details are available to account holders.
Create a free account to get in touch with this expert.