Core Viewpoint - The European Central Bank (ECB) has conducted a strategic assessment of its monetary policy in response to significant changes in the market environment, including geopolitical conflicts, rapid advancements in digitalization and artificial intelligence, demographic shifts, climate crises, and a profound restructuring of the international financial system [1][2]. Summary by Sections Monetary Policy Strategy - The ECB's assessment addresses the need to optimize its economic evaluation framework, policy tools, and decision-making mechanisms in a "non-transparent and unstable" new normal [1]. - A significant adjustment in this assessment is the clarification and reinforcement of the inflation target, acknowledging past "substantial and persistent deviations" from the target [1]. Inflation Target - The inflation target is set at "significantly above 0%" (specifically 2%), which is crucial for ensuring that policy rates have sufficient "buffer space" to respond to negative shocks [2]. - The ECB emphasizes that the 2% target provides a "clear anchor" for inflation expectations while demonstrating pragmatic flexibility [2]. Policy Tools and Decision-Making - Adjustments to policy rates remain the primary tool, but the ECB is prepared to utilize other instruments such as long-term refinancing operations, asset purchases, negative interest rates, and forward guidance when necessary [3]. - The ECB has formally integrated scenario analysis and sensitivity analysis into its policy decision-making process, moving away from solely relying on baseline forecasts [3].

Core Viewpoint - The Central Bank of Sri Lanka has moved the scheduled monetary policy assessment from May 28 to May 22, indicating a potential shift in monetary policy considerations [1] Group 1 - The monetary policy assessment is now set to occur six days earlier than originally planned [1]