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SNB to hold rates at zero on September 25 and throughout 2026, economists say: Reuters poll
Yahoo Financeยท2025-09-22 12:04

Core Viewpoint - The Swiss National Bank (SNB) is expected to maintain its policy rate at zero through 2026 due to stable inflation and a steady currency, as indicated by a majority of economists in a recent Reuters poll [1][3][6]. Interest Rate Outlook - The SNB currently has the lowest interest rate among major central banks, and while inflation is gradually increasing, it remains low, making it unlikely for rates to go negative again [2][3]. - A significant majority of economists (over 80%) anticipate that rates will remain unchanged for the rest of the year, with 21 out of 25 predicting the rate will still be at 0.00% by the end of 2026 [6]. Economic Indicators - Inflation in Switzerland was recorded at 0.2% last month, well within the SNB's target range of 0%-2%, and is expected to average 0.2% for the year and 0.6% in 2026 [5][6]. - The Swiss franc has appreciated only 0.4% against the euro since the beginning of the year and is projected to depreciate by more than 2% over the next 12 months [5]. Central Bank Strategy - SNB Chairman Martin Schlegel has expressed concerns about the "undesirable side effects" of negative rates, suggesting a preference for maintaining the current rate [3]. - The SNB retains the option to intervene in the foreign currency market to manage any significant appreciation of the Swiss franc, which is viewed as a more favorable strategy than introducing negative rates [7].