Core Points - The European Central Bank (ECB) decided to keep the key deposit rate unchanged at 2%, marking the third consecutive meeting without a rate change since the last cut in June, when the inflation rate in the Eurozone reached the target of 2% [1] - The ECB stated that inflation remains close to the medium-term target of 2%, and the assessment of the inflation outlook has largely remained unchanged [1] - Despite a challenging global environment, the economy continues to grow, supported by a strong labor market and robust private sector balance sheets [1] - The ECB warned of uncertainties in the outlook, particularly due to ongoing global trade disputes and geopolitical tensions [1] - Eurozone inflation rose slightly to 2.2% in September, primarily driven by an increase in service prices, leading economists to suggest that the ECB is likely to adopt a cautious approach regarding interest rate adjustments [1] Economic Data - Preliminary data showed that the Eurozone's economy grew by 0.2% quarter-on-quarter in the third quarter, which was above expectations and reinforced the ECB's decision to maintain interest rates [3] - The ECB reiterated its approach of making interest rate decisions based on data and meeting-by-meeting assessments [3] - ECB officials indicated that the rate-cutting cycle is nearing its end, with comments suggesting that there is no immediate need to adjust policies unless significant changes occur [3] - A survey conducted in mid-October revealed that the majority of economists expect the ECB to keep the deposit rate unchanged for the remainder of the year, with 57% of surveyed economists predicting that rates will remain stable until the end of 2026 [3]

Core Viewpoint - The European Central Bank (ECB) is expected to maintain its key interest rates during the upcoming monetary policy meeting, continuing its pause on rate hikes due to improved economic data from the Eurozone [1][2]. Economic Data - Eurozone GDP grew by 0.1% quarter-on-quarter in Q2, exceeding market expectations and indicating a recovery in economic resilience [1]. - The Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP) rose by 2.1% year-on-year in August, slightly above the previous value of 2.0% and meeting the ECB's inflation target of 2% [1]. Trade Agreements - Recent trade agreements between the US and Europe provide additional support for the regional economic outlook, helping to alleviate previous downward pressures from external trade uncertainties [1]. Market Expectations - While the current interest rate decision is widely anticipated, market focus has shifted to future policy guidance, with many economists believing the ECB's easing cycle has ended [2]. - The swap market still implies a 25 basis point rate cut within the next 12 months, indicating a divergence between financial market expectations and mainstream economic forecasts [2]. ECB Communication Strategy - ECB President Christine Lagarde is expected to emphasize "enhanced economic resilience" and "reduced external trade uncertainty" in her upcoming press conference [2]. - The ECB management has indicated that further rate cuts would require a significant deterioration in economic prospects or persistent deflation risks, suggesting a cautious approach to future policy adjustments [2].