Bank of England holds interest rates at 4% and slows scheme to sell stock of UK bonds

The GuardianThursday, September 18, 2025 at 11:00:21 AM
Bank of England holds interest rates at 4% and slows scheme to sell stock of UK bonds
The Bank of England has decided to maintain interest rates at 4% while also slowing its quantitative tightening program. This move aims to stabilize the bond markets and potentially lower borrowing costs for the Treasury. By taking these steps, the Bank is addressing market concerns and promoting a more stable economic environment, which is crucial for both consumers and businesses.
— Curated by the World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended Readings
UK not out of woods on inflation, says Bank of England as interest rates held
NegativeWorld Affairs
The Bank of England has issued a cautionary note regarding the ongoing challenges of inflation, with its governor stating that the UK is 'not out of the woods yet.' This highlights the persistent economic pressures that could affect consumers and businesses alike, making it crucial for policymakers to navigate these turbulent waters carefully.
UK not out of woods on inflation, says Bank of England as interest rates held
NegativeWorld Affairs
The Bank of England has issued a cautionary note regarding the ongoing challenges of inflation, with its governor stating that the UK is 'not out of the woods yet.' This highlights the persistent economic pressures that could affect consumers and businesses alike, making it crucial for policymakers to navigate these turbulent waters carefully.
Why is UK inflation still rising?
NegativeWorld Affairs
UK inflation has decreased from its record highs but continues to exceed the Bank of England's target of 2%. This situation is concerning as it indicates ongoing economic challenges, affecting consumers and businesses alike. Understanding the reasons behind this persistent inflation is crucial for policymakers and the public to navigate the financial landscape.
Why is UK inflation still rising?
NegativeWorld Affairs
UK inflation has decreased from its record highs but continues to exceed the Bank of England's target of 2%. This situation is concerning as it indicates ongoing economic challenges, affecting consumers and businesses alike. Understanding the reasons behind this persistent inflation is crucial for policymakers and the public to navigate the financial landscape.
The Federal Reserve’s independence is about to be tested like never before
NegativeWorld Affairs
The independence of the Federal Reserve is facing unprecedented challenges as Donald Trump pushes for significant rate cuts and seeks to increase political influence over the central bank. This situation raises concerns about the integrity of monetary policy and the potential for short-term political interests to overshadow sound economic decision-making. The call to eliminate the 'revolving door' between the White House and the Fed highlights the urgency of maintaining the Fed's autonomy to ensure it can effectively manage the economy without political interference.
Australia’s immigration is not ‘out of control’ – it’s trending lower and has been for over a year
NeutralWorld Affairs
Recent reports indicate that Australia's net migration is projected to decrease to 335,100 by June, contradicting claims that immigration is out of control. This trend has been ongoing for over a year, suggesting a more stable immigration landscape. Understanding these changes is crucial as they impact the economy, social services, and community dynamics, helping to shape informed public discussions about immigration policies.
UK inflation holds steady at 3.8% as fuel prices offset falling air fares
NeutralWorld Affairs
UK inflation remained steady at 3.8% in August, as rising fuel prices balanced out a drop in air fares. This stability comes at a crucial time as the Bank of England is considering whether to maintain interest rates at 4% to combat inflationary pressures. This situation is significant for households facing increased living costs, highlighting the ongoing economic challenges in the UK.
UK inflation holds steady at 3.8% as fuel prices offset falling air fares
NeutralWorld Affairs
UK inflation remained steady at 3.8% in August, as rising fuel prices balanced out a drop in air fares. This stability comes at a crucial time as the Bank of England is considering whether to maintain interest rates at 4% to combat inflationary pressures. This situation is significant for households facing increased living costs, highlighting the ongoing economic challenges in the UK.
U.K. Inflation Holds at High Level Ahead of Bank of England Meeting
NeutralWorld Affairs
U.K. inflation remains steady at 3.8% year-on-year as the Bank of England gears up for an important meeting to discuss interest rates. This stability in inflation is significant as it influences economic policies and consumer confidence, impacting everything from borrowing costs to spending habits.
U.K. Inflation Holds at High Level Ahead of Bank of England Meeting
NeutralWorld Affairs
U.K. inflation remains steady at 3.8% year-on-year as the Bank of England gears up for an important meeting to discuss interest rates. This stability in inflation is significant as it influences economic policies and consumer confidence, impacting everything from borrowing costs to spending habits.
Labour must rethink growth strategy to curb rise of far right, says top economist
NegativeWorld Affairs
Former Bank of England chief economist Andy Haldane has urged the Labour Party to rethink its growth strategy to combat the rise of far-right populism. He emphasizes that investment in left-behind communities is crucial to improve living standards and address the feelings of neglect among voters. This call to action is significant as it highlights the need for political parties to adapt their approaches to effectively respond to the challenges posed by populism, ensuring that all communities feel valued and supported.
Labour must rethink growth strategy to curb rise of far right, says top economist
NegativeWorld Affairs
Former Bank of England chief economist Andy Haldane has urged the Labour Party to rethink its growth strategy to combat the rise of far-right populism. He emphasizes that investment in left-behind communities is crucial to improve living standards and address the feelings of neglect among voters. This call to action is significant as it highlights the need for political parties to adapt their approaches to effectively respond to the challenges posed by populism, ensuring that all communities feel valued and supported.
Latest from World Affairs
Stephen Colbert condemns Jimmy Kimmel suspension as ‘blatant assault on freedom of speech’ – live
PositiveWorld Affairs
Stephen Colbert has spoken out against the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel's show, labeling it a blatant attack on freedom of speech. He criticized Disney executives for yielding to pressure from FCC chair Brendan Carr, highlighting the importance of protecting creative expression in media. This situation resonates with many as it raises concerns about censorship and the influence of political figures on entertainment, making it a significant moment for late-night television and free speech advocacy.
Australia news live: fifth whale caught in Sunshine Coast shark nets; Ley calls emissions target modelling ‘a cruel hoax’
NegativeWorld Affairs
In a troubling development, a fifth whale has been caught in shark nets off the Sunshine Coast, raising concerns about marine life safety. This incident highlights the ongoing debate around the effectiveness of shark nets and their impact on wildlife. Additionally, Ley's comments on emissions target modeling being a 'cruel hoax' have sparked controversy, emphasizing the need for transparent and effective environmental policies. These events matter as they reflect broader issues of conservation and climate accountability in Australia.
‘Japanese first’: the mini-Trump on the rise as population crisis bites
NegativeWorld Affairs
Sohei Kamiya, the leader of the nationalist party Sanseito, is gaining traction among young voters and disillusioned conservatives in Japan as he campaigns for the upper house elections. His 'Japanese first' rhetoric, reminiscent of populist movements elsewhere, is polarizing the electorate, drawing both support and concern. This rise in nationalism is significant as it reflects broader societal anxieties amid Japan's population crisis, potentially reshaping the political landscape and influencing future policies.
Russia open to compromises on Ukraine – Lavrov
PositiveWorld Affairs
Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has expressed a willingness to seek compromises regarding the ongoing situation in Ukraine, provided that Russia's interests are taken into account. This statement is significant as it opens the door for potential dialogue and resolution in a conflict that has caused considerable tension in international relations. The willingness to negotiate could lead to a more stable environment in the region, which is crucial for both local and global stability.
Late-night show hosts decry suspension of Kimmel’s show: ‘Blatant assault on freedom of speech’
PositiveWorld Affairs
Late-night hosts are standing in solidarity with Jimmy Kimmel after ABC suspended his show, which they view as a serious threat to freedom of speech. Stephen Colbert, Seth Meyers, and David Letterman have openly criticized Disney and FCC chief Brendan Carr for this decision, highlighting the importance of protecting comedic expression in media. This situation resonates with many as it raises concerns about censorship and the role of corporate interests in shaping public discourse.
Mass protest expected in Philippines capital amid public fury over alleged corruption in government projects
NegativeWorld Affairs
A significant protest is set to take place in Manila, Philippines, as public outrage grows over alleged corruption in government flood control projects. Coinciding with the anniversary of the 1972 martial law declaration, this 'Trillion Peso March' aims to highlight the estimated $17.6 billion misappropriated funds. The president's support for the rally indicates a recognition of the public's anger and a potential shift in government accountability. This event matters as it reflects the citizens' demand for transparency and integrity in governance.