ECB Rate Cut Likely as Euro Zone Bonds React to Falling Inflation

Euro zone bond yields dipped on Monday following signs of slowing inflation in Germany and Italy. ECB President Christine Lagarde pointed to progress on price stability, fueling expectations of an interest rate cut in October. Data showed significant declines in inflation rates, boosting investor confidence.

Euro zone government bond yields experienced a decline on Monday, driven by encouraging inflation data from Germany and Italy. The slowdown in inflation has led to growing investor confidence in an upcoming interest rate cut by the European Central Bank (ECB).

German inflation decelerated more than anticipated, falling to 1.8% year-on-year in September, the lowest rate since February 2021. Christine Lagarde, ECB President, acknowledged the positive developments, strengthening the likelihood of a policy rate cut in October. Money market pricing indicated an 83% probability of this move, up from 75% on Friday.

France and Spain also reported lower-than-expected consumer prices in September, underlining a wider trend of easing inflation across major euro zone economies. This economic backdrop has set the stage for the ECB to adjust its monetary policy in the near future.

(With inputs from agencies.)