Inflation ( CCPI)0.5% (Aug 2024)
GDP5.3% (1Q 2024)
Unemployment4.3% (4Q 2023)
3M T-Bill Rate9.61%
12M T-Bill Rate10.03%
2Y T-Bond Rate11.05%/ 11.15%
4Y T-Bond Rate12.85% / 12.95%
USD/LKR299/300
Reserves $5.9Bn (Aug 2024)
Cum. Trade Deficit $2,550 Mn (June 2024 cumulative)
Cum. Fiscal DeficitLKR 599Bn (June 2024)

Mixed opinion on the interest rate decision at monetary policy tomorrow

Opinion pollsNov 23, 2023
Mixed opinion on the interest rate decision at monetary policy tomorrow

Less than 5% inflation, intention to reduce government borrowing cost, and the importance of speeding up the credit growth support the “rate cut” decision. On the other hand, CBSL may wait a little longer to see the impact of VAT on inflation.

Price stability is one of the key objectives of the CBSL under inflation-targeting monetary policy. If the proposals for the 2024 budget are inflationary, CBSL might adopt the wait-and-see approach as losing monetary policy would further add fuel to inflation.

Disclaimer

Charts represents an assessment of the market environment as of the date indicated and it is subject to change; and is not intended to be a forecast of future events or a guarantee of future results. This information should not be relied upon by the reader as research or investment advice regarding the funds or any issuer or security in particular. The strategies discussed are strictly for illustrative and educational purposes and should not be construed as a recommendation to purchase or sell, or an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. There is no guarantee that any strategies discussed will be effective.

The information presented does not take into consideration commissions, tax implications, or other transactions costs, which may significantly affect the economic consequences of a given strategy or investment decision. This document contains general information only and does not take into account an individual’s financial circumstances. An assessment should be made as to whether the information is appropriate in individual circumstances and consideration should be given to talking to a financial advisor before making an investment decisions.