The Bank of England (BoE) has decided to maintain interest rates at 5.0%, with a vote of 8-1 from the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), reflecting cautious optimism amid stable inflation at 2.2%. Governor Andrew Bailey indicated that while inflationary pressures have eased, the BoE will approach future rate cuts gradually to ensure sustained low inflation. This decision follows a recent rate cut from 5.25%, marking the first reduction since 2020, and comes amidst contrasting moves by the U.S. Federal Reserve, which recently cut rates by 0.5 percentage points. Economists predict potential future cuts could occur as early as November depending on economic recovery signals. The property sector is responding positively, suggesting a gradual easing of mortgage rates may stimulate market activity. Overall, the MPC emphasizes the need for a cautious approach to avoid reigniting inflationary pressures.