MAS Holds Monetary Policy Steady as Strong Growth Raises Inflation Risks 
Thailand Economy Faces Competitiveness Challenges as Strong Baht and U.S. Tariffs Pressure Exports 
Bank of Japan Likely to Delay Rate Hike Until July as Economists Eye 1% by September 
RBA Deputy Governor Says November Inflation Slowdown Helpful but Still Above Target 
Bank of Korea Expected to Hold Interest Rates as Weak Won Limits Policy Easing 
ECB’s Cipollone Backs Digital Euro as Europe Pushes for Payment System Independence 
U.S. Prosecutors Investigate Fed Chair Jerome Powell Over Headquarters Renovation 
Fed Confirms Rate Meeting Schedule Despite Severe Winter Storm in Washington D.C. 
Marking three straight holds, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) maintained its cash rate unchanged at 3.60% during its December 2025 meeting, therefore supporting a data-driven strategy to monetary policy. The Board chose prudence as predicted by markets, citing consistent upside surprises in monthly inflation data, which have driven headline CPI over the 2–3% target band. The RBA stressed that no predetermined route exists, and every judgment will be based on inbound information, notwithstanding consistent GDP growth and strong labor market indicators like unemployment in the middle of 4%.
Policymakers showed a readiness to leave rates constant for a prolonged period while being on guard for evidence of more price increase given that inflation proved persistent. The statement's tone and recent economist surveys imply the danger of further rate cuts in 2026 has reduced; should inflation not moderate as predicted, the possibility of a rate hike in the coming year grows. Conversely, just a great softening in labor statistics and fresh disinflation would restore chances for cuts; following the most recent CPI readings, this is no longer the base scenario.
At the near end of the AUD rates curve, the policy stance reinforces the "higher for longer" perspective and lowers hopes for near-term relaxation in 2026. For currency markets, the mix of persistent inflation, cautious but somewhat hawkish RBA language, and slower easing elsewhere keeps the Australian dollar relatively supported—so long as global risk sentiment stays still.
