Zhi Tong Cai Jing·2025-09-02 07:08Group 1 - The European Central Bank (ECB) is expected to maintain its interest rates during the upcoming decision on September 11, aligning with long-standing views and current market expectations [1][2] - Economic data since the July meeting has shown mixed results, with August PMI slightly better than expected and a 0.1% quarter-on-quarter GDP growth in Q2, although this may be revised down [1][2] - There are signs of anti-inflation since June, including the appreciation of the euro and higher-than-expected tariffs from the US on the EU, but the ECB's inflation forecasts are not expected to be downgraded [2] Group 2 - ECB President Lagarde emphasized that the current state is stable, indicating no intention for further rate cuts, which supports the view that data is insufficient to change policy in September [2] - The ECB's inflation target of 2% is likely to be missed in the coming year, with projections suggesting it may only be reached by 2027 [2] - Lagarde may be questioned about France's situation and the potential use of the Transmission Protection Instrument (TPI), but it is anticipated she will avoid the topic, stating it is too early for such discussions [3]