RBI MPC Meeting: Repo Rate Cut to 5.5% and Inflation Forecast Revised
The Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) six-member Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has made a significant decision, cutting the repo rate for the third consecutive time by 50 basis points to 5.5 per cent. Announcing the decision, Governor Sanjay Malhotra also revised the inflation outlook for FY26 to 3.7 per cent, down from the earlier estimate of 4 per cent. The MPC retained the GDP growth forecast for the current fiscal year at 6.5 per cent, acknowledging that geopolitical tensions and weather vagaries pose headwinds.
What to expect after the repo rate reduction? After a 50 basis points slash in the repo rate, it is anticipated that all external benchmark lending rates (EBLR) linked to it will decline by a similar margin. Historical trends suggest that in February 2025, most banks reduced their rates by the same magnitude. Furthermore, the rate cut is likely to benefit the bond market, as falling interest rates typically lead to a rise in bond prices.
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation for 2025-26 has been estimated at 3.7 per cent, lower than the 4 per cent predicted earlier, as per the RBI Governor’s announcement. The real GDP growth for 2025-26 is projected at 6.5 per cent. For the financial year 2024-25, the growth rate stood at 6.5 per cent, marking a four-year low.
The MPC's decision to cut the repo rate is aimed at stimulating economic growth by reducing borrowing costs for businesses and consumers. This move is expected to boost investment and consumer spending, thereby supporting the economy. However, the committee remains vigilant about potential risks such as geopolitical tensions and weather-related challenges that could impact the economic outlook.
In summary, the RBI's decision to lower the repo rate and revise the inflation forecast reflects a balanced approach to managing economic growth and stability. The MPC's commitment to monitoring and addressing potential risks ensures that the economy remains on a steady path towards recovery and growth.