UK Inflation Declines, BOE Considers Rate Cut

Annual inflation in the U.K. has eased for the second consecutive month, with the consumer-price index rising 2.6% in March, down from 2.8% in February, prompting speculation about potential interest rate cuts by the Bank of England due to economic concerns linked to U.S. tariff policies. In India, a report by SBI Research indicates that inflation is at a multi-year low, which may lead the Reserve Bank of India to implement rate cuts of 50 basis points in June and August, contributing to a cumulative reduction exceeding 100 basis points amid uncertain economic conditions. The report also forecasts GDP growth for FY26 at 6.3%, reflecting a downward bias. Meanwhile, mortgage rates are expected to remain above 4% in 2025, with experts predicting short-term rates could bottom out at around 4.5% within six to twelve months. The volatility in financial markets, particularly following tariff announcements, has influenced mortgage rates, which have recently dipped below 7%. Overall, both U.K. and Indian markets are navigating the impacts of inflation and economic uncertainties, while the mortgage landscape is adapting to changing interest rate expectations.