UK Inflation Dips to 3.2%, Fueling Rate Cut Speculation
UK inflation fell to 3.2% in November, marking an eight-month low and undershooting economist forecasts. The decline from October's 3.6% was driven by easing food costs and lower women's clothing prices, according to the Office for National Statistics.
The pound weakened 0.6% against the dollar, hitting $1.3343 as markets priced in potential monetary easing. Core inflation—excluding volatile food and energy prices—also softened, signaling broader disinflationary trends.
With inflation now closer to the Bank of England's 2% target, traders anticipate imminent rate cuts. The MOVE could alleviate cost-of-living pressures while reshaping borrowing conditions across the economy.