Howard Archer

In economic terms at least, Wednesday's budget seems set to be a very low key affair.

In economic terms at least, Wednesday's budget seems set to be a very low key affair.

This is still a pretty benign report overall and broadly in line with Bank of England expectations contained in the read more

This is still a pretty benign report overall and broadly in line with Bank of England expectations contained in the February Inflation Report.

Pretty healthy retail sales growth in November reinforces belief that consumer spending is picking up to some extent, and reduces read more

Pretty healthy retail sales growth in November reinforces belief that consumer spending is picking up to some extent, and reduces the case for a near-term interest rate cut.

The evidence of marked improvement in the manufacturing sector further guarantees there will be no interest rate cut this Thursday. read more

The evidence of marked improvement in the manufacturing sector further guarantees there will be no interest rate cut this Thursday. Indeed, we admit it is looking increasingly questionable whether interest rates will be trimmed further.

Nevertheless, limited core inflation in January will not deter the ECB from hiking interest rates by a further 25 basis read more

Nevertheless, limited core inflation in January will not deter the ECB from hiking interest rates by a further 25 basis points on Thursday.