India's central bank keeps benchmark rates steady, cites 'moderate' core inflation

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) maintained its benchmark interest rate at 5.25% for the fifth consecutive time on Wednesday, despite retail inflation exceeding the central bank's target of 4%. The RBI governor, Sanjay Malhotra, highlighted that while headline inflation edged up above the target, core inflation, which excludes energy and food prices, remains moderate.

He pointed out that core inflation is expected to decline after peaking in the December quarter and emphasized the need for clearer inflation data and composition before taking any policy action. The RBI governor also cautioned that while growth is expected to be lower this financial year, the outlook remains uncertain due to factors like the southwest monsoon, El Nino, geopolitics, and global trade policy.

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