RBI MPC Meeting: Repo Rate Cut to 5.25% Boosts Economic Optimism
The Reserve Bank of India’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) on Friday (December 5) voted unanimously to reduce the repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.25%, while retaining a neutral policy stance. RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra described the current economic conditions as a “rare Goldilocks period,” with strong growth and controlled inflation.
This reduction in the repo rate is expected to have a significant impact on various sectors of the economy, particularly the real estate sector. The move is seen as a positive step towards boosting investment and consumer spending, which could help in revitalizing the economy.
The central bank also announced open market operations (OMO) purchases of ₹1 lakh crore in G-Secs and a three-year dollar-rupee buy-sell swap. These measures are designed to ensure liquidity in the financial system and support economic growth.
Looking ahead, the RBI projects that growth will moderate slightly, while headline and core inflation are expected to remain at or below 4% during the first half of FY27. This provides the central bank with the policy space to continue supporting the economy through accommodative measures.
The real estate sector, in particular, is expected to benefit from the repo rate cut. Lower interest rates can make home loans more affordable, potentially leading to increased demand for properties. This could help in reviving the real estate market, which has been facing challenges in recent years.
Overall, the MPC’s decision is a strategic move to balance economic growth and inflation. It is hoped that this will lead to a more robust and sustainable economic environment, benefiting businesses and consumers alike.