+
RBI keeps repo rate untouched at 6.5%
ECONOMY & POLICY

RBI keeps repo rate untouched at 6.5%

The Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Shaktikanta Das, stated that the retail inflation rate is still higher than the MPC's objective of 4%, which is why the MPC opted to maintain the policy repo rate at 6.5%. The choice was made in the midst of worldwide and domestic economic uncertainty. According to the RBI Governor, the MPC made the majority decision to maintain the current repo rate. He conveyed that upon the realisation of the projected GDP growth of 7.2% for 2024?25, it would mark the fourth consecutive year of growth at or above 7%. He noted that the headline CPI has been following a disinflationary trajectory, with monetary policy playing a significant role in this trend. He highlighted a decline in headline inflation by 2.3 percentage points between the first quarter of 2022?23 and the fourth quarter of 2023?24, attributing it to both supply-side developments and government measures. However, he acknowledged that repeated food price shocks had impeded the overall disinflation process. Regarding the rates, he mentioned that the standing deposit facility (SDF) rate remains at 6.25%, with the marginal standing facility (MSF) rate and the bank rate staying at 6.75%. Governor Shaktikanta Das underscored the importance of adopting a balanced approach to monetary policy. He reaffirmed the Monetary Policy Committee's commitment to gradually withdrawing accommodation to ensure inflation aligns with the targeted range. He emphasised that monetary policy must persist in its disinflationary stance and steadfastly work towards aligning inflation with the 4% target on a durable basis to sustain price stability. The RBI revised its growth projections for the current financial year 2024?25, forecasting a GDP growth rate of 7.2 %. The quarterly growth projections stand at 7.3 % for Q1, 7.2 % for Q2, 7.3 % for Q3, and 7.2 % for Q4.

The Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Shaktikanta Das, stated that the retail inflation rate is still higher than the MPC's objective of 4%, which is why the MPC opted to maintain the policy repo rate at 6.5%. The choice was made in the midst of worldwide and domestic economic uncertainty. According to the RBI Governor, the MPC made the majority decision to maintain the current repo rate. He conveyed that upon the realisation of the projected GDP growth of 7.2% for 2024?25, it would mark the fourth consecutive year of growth at or above 7%. He noted that the headline CPI has been following a disinflationary trajectory, with monetary policy playing a significant role in this trend. He highlighted a decline in headline inflation by 2.3 percentage points between the first quarter of 2022?23 and the fourth quarter of 2023?24, attributing it to both supply-side developments and government measures. However, he acknowledged that repeated food price shocks had impeded the overall disinflation process. Regarding the rates, he mentioned that the standing deposit facility (SDF) rate remains at 6.25%, with the marginal standing facility (MSF) rate and the bank rate staying at 6.75%. Governor Shaktikanta Das underscored the importance of adopting a balanced approach to monetary policy. He reaffirmed the Monetary Policy Committee's commitment to gradually withdrawing accommodation to ensure inflation aligns with the targeted range. He emphasised that monetary policy must persist in its disinflationary stance and steadfastly work towards aligning inflation with the 4% target on a durable basis to sustain price stability. The RBI revised its growth projections for the current financial year 2024?25, forecasting a GDP growth rate of 7.2 %. The quarterly growth projections stand at 7.3 % for Q1, 7.2 % for Q2, 7.3 % for Q3, and 7.2 % for Q4.

Next Story
Infrastructure Urban

Budget Proposal Aims to Boost Investments

The recent budget proposal has introduced measures designed to promote investments and generate job opportunities across various industries, as reported by the Economic Times. This initiative seeks to stimulate economic activity and strengthen the country's growth trajectory by encouraging both domestic and foreign investments. Key aspects of the proposal include targeted incentives for sectors poised for expansion, such as renewable energy, infrastructure, and technology. The government aims to create a more favorable investment climate by offering tax benefits, subsidies, and streamlined reg..

Next Story
Infrastructure Urban

Indian Financial System Resilient Amidst Challenges

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Deputy Governor M. Rajeshwar Rao has emphasized the robust nature of the Indian financial system despite global economic headwinds, according to Economic Times. Rao?s comments reflect confidence in the stability and resilience of India's financial sector amidst a backdrop of international economic uncertainties and financial volatility. Rao highlighted that India?s financial system is well-equipped to handle external shocks due to its solid regulatory framework and prudent risk management practices. The country?s banking sector has demonstrated resilience throug..

Next Story
Infrastructure Energy

SC Allows State Tax on Mines, Minerals

Opposition leaders have welcomed the Supreme Court's recent decision permitting states to levy taxes on mines and mineral-bearing lands, as reported. The ruling is seen as a significant victory for state governments seeking greater control and revenue from natural resource extraction within their jurisdictions. The Supreme Court?s decision empowers states to impose taxes on mining operations and mineral-rich lands, which could enhance their revenue streams and enable better management of local resources. This move is particularly important for states with substantial mineral resources, as it a..

Talk to us?