world-economy

Central Banks Across Africa, Asia Tighten Grip as Inflation Remains Stubborn

Monetary authorities are taking a cautious stance on rate cuts as inflation pressures persist across emerging markets. Standard Chartered forecasts Nigeria's central bank will move more deliberately through its easing cycle, citing higher-than-expected price growth and unanchored inflation expectations. Ethiopia's central bank raised its benchmark rate for the first time in two years, removing caps on credit growth to combat rising costs. India's inflation surged above the Reserve Bank's target for the first time in nearly a year and a half, keeping policymakers vigilant. Romania's easing inflation offers some relief, though volatile commodity prices cloud the outlook for additional cuts. The divergent approaches underscore the delicate balance central banks face: supporting economic activity while containing price pressures that threaten purchasing power across the region.