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Euro zone inflation hits 4% for first time in three years as interest rate hike looms
Energy prices drove the increase as markets priced a 72% chance of another European Central Bank rate hike in December, economists said.
Eurozone inflation climbed to 4% in October, reaching its highest level in three years as rising food and energy costs intensified pressure on household budgets.
The latest inflation figures have strengthened expectations that the European Central Bank will raise interest rates again in December to control rising prices.
Energy inflation surged to 20%, largely driven by higher oil and gas prices linked to the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Iran.
ECB policymakers, including Bundesbank President Joachim Nagel, have indicated that another rate increase is likely unless the inflation outlook improves significantly.
Financial markets anticipate further monetary tightening, while economists warn that persistent energy and food price increases could keep inflation above the ECB’s 2% target for an extended period.
Refuelling, heating and electricity: rising energy prices drive inflation in the eurozone to 4.0 percent. The value increases the pressure on the European Central Bank before its meeting in December.
Annual inflation in the eurozone rose to 4% in October, compared with 3.8% in September. This is reflected in the flash estimate published by Eurostat, the European Union Statistical Office. (ANSA). (ANSA)