一年来首次！欧洲央行料按兵不动，降息前景迷雾重重

Core Viewpoint - The European Central Bank (ECB) is expected to maintain interest rates at 2% during its upcoming decision, marking the first pause in over a year, as it awaits clarity on the impact of Trump's tariff policies on inflation [1][2][5]. Interest Rate Policy - A Bloomberg survey indicates that all but two economists expect the ECB to keep the deposit rate unchanged, with a majority predicting a 25 basis point cut in September [1]. - The ECB is projected to cumulatively lower rates by 200 basis points between June 2024 and June 2025, aiming to position the deposit rate in a neutral zone [1]. - ECB officials are divided on future policy directions, with some open to further easing due to concerns about inflation potentially falling below the 2% target [2][3][4]. Economic Outlook - Trump's threat to impose a 30% tariff on the EU starting in August has heightened uncertainty, with risks of a less favorable outcome from trade negotiations compared to previous forecasts [6]. - The ECB's Vice President warned of potential stagnation in output for the eurozone in Q2 and Q3 if trade talks fail [6][9]. - Positive economic signals include planned military and infrastructure spending, with over 100 billion euros (approximately 117 billion dollars) in new projects announced by top German companies [9]. Euro Strength - The euro has appreciated by 13% against the dollar this year, raising concerns among policymakers about the impact on export prices and import costs [10]. - Some officials suggest that a stronger euro could lead to a reconsideration of rate cuts, while others believe such concerns are overstated [10][11]. Communication Challenges - The ECB's upcoming policy statement and President Lagarde's remarks will be closely monitored for indications of future rate cuts, particularly the use of terms like "pause" which may signal that rate cuts are not over [11][12]. - The assessment of economic risks is crucial, with expectations that if risks remain skewed to the downside, it could signal a forthcoming rate cut in September [11]. Personnel Changes - The July meeting will mark the first participation of the new Dutch central bank governor, who is viewed as a moderate hawk, while the Austrian hawk representative will attend for the last time before retirement [12].