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Bank of England expected to rethink meeting frequency amid economic volatility fears
As the Bank of England prepares for a likely interest rate cut on May 8, critics argue that its six-week meeting cycle hampers timely responses to economic volatility. With global uncertainties escalating, there's a growing call for the Monetary Policy Committee to convene more frequently, ensuring agile and proactive monetary policy decisions.
May 07, 2025
Tags: Industry News Market Risk
Bank of England expected to rethink meeting frequency amid economic volatility fears
The views and opinions expressed in this content are those of the thought leader as an individual and are not attributed to CeFPro or any other organization
  • Bank of England expected to cut base rate from 4.5% to 4.25% on May 8
  • Current six-week interval between MPC meetings seen as inadequate for rapid economic shifts
  • Critics advocate for increasing meeting frequency to every three weeks
  • More frequent meetings would allow for timely responses without necessitating constant rate changes
  • Clear communication strategies can mitigate potential market confusion
  • Other central banks have demonstrated flexibility in meeting schedules during economic volatility
  • UK faces ongoing challenges: inflation above target and fragile economic growth
  • Reevaluating MPC meeting frequency could enhance the Bank's responsiveness to economic complexities​
  • 

Newsletter - in-text

The Bank of England is poised to reduce its base rate from 4.5% to 4.25% at the upcoming Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting on May 8, with some analysts predicting a more substantial cut to 4.0%.

This anticipated move comes in response to mounting economic pressures, including global trade tensions and domestic financial instability.​

However, the Bank's current practice of holding MPC meetings every six weeks is drawing criticism.

In an era marked by rapid economic shifts, this interval is seen by many as insufficient for timely policy adjustments.

The six-week gap between meetings means that any further rate decisions won't occur until June 19, potentially leaving the economy vulnerable to unforeseen shocks.​

Historically, the six-week schedule was appropriate during periods of economic stability, such as the post-2008 financial crisis era when interest rates remained low and steady.

However, today's economic landscape is vastly different. Geopolitical uncertainties, fluctuating energy prices, and persistent inflationary pressures demand a more agile approach to monetary policy.​

Critics argue that the Bank's current meeting frequency renders it reactive rather than proactive. In contrast, other central banks have demonstrated greater flexibility in their meeting schedules to address rapidly changing economic conditions.

For instance, the European Central Bank and the U.S. Federal Reserve have shown willingness to adjust their meeting frequencies in response to economic exigencies.​

Advocates for change suggest that the MPC should adopt a three-week meeting cycle, arguing that such a shift would allow for more responsive decision-making and enable the Bank to better navigate economic turbulence.

They also suggest concerns about potential market confusion due to more frequent meetings can be mitigated through clear and transparent communication from the Bank.

By articulating the rationale behind each decision – or decision to hold – the Bank can maintain market confidence and stability.​

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