November 22, 2024 10:49 GMT
CENTRAL BANKS: Markets right to price ECB-BOE policy divergence post-PMI (1/2)
CENTRAL BANKS
- We think that markets are right to price more ECB-BOE policy divergence post-PMI as the importance of growth data at present is much more important to the ECB's reaction function than for the BOE.
- The ECB cut policy rates by 25bp in October, with the details in the PMI data pointing to faster deterioration in the Eurozone economy than they had expected. ECB policymakers made a number of public appearances after the data was released flagging the change in their thought process relative to the more benign outlook that they had signalled at their September meeting.
- The growth outlook for the eurozone looks increasingly negative (particularly in Germany and increasingly in France). The ECB is concerned that this will lead to lower domestic price pressures going forward and hence moving policy rates (which are currently restrictive) towards neutral in a timely manner makes sense.
- Today's data increases the urgency. At least a 25bp cut looks baked in and markets are right to price in an increased probability of a larger 50bp cut, in our view.
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