Could RBI’s Dovish Stance Pave the Way for More Rate Cuts?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Dec 6 (NationPress) The Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) recent cut of 25 bps in the repo rate, coupled with its dovish outlook, opens the door for additional easing in FY27 if the pace of growth falters. A report indicates that the ongoing depreciation in foreign exchange rates may enhance export competitiveness.
The report from HSBC Global Investment Research applauds the RBI's intention to inject domestic liquidity this December, projecting an infusion of approximately Rs 1.45 trillion.
The RBI also revealed plans for Rs 1 trillion in open market operations purchases and a three-year USD/INR buy-sell swap of $5 billion.
HSBC estimates inflation will be around 3.5 percent for the first half of FY27, which is about 50 basis points lower than the RBI’s predictions.
The firm anticipates inflation to remain under 4 percent in both FY26 and FY27.
They stated, "While growth is robust now, we anticipate it will decelerate by the March quarter due to fiscal tightening, declining exports, and a waning boost from GST. Fiscal policy will remain stringent amid a global climate of fiscal intolerance, with the responsibility for supporting growth resting on the RBI."
The report adds that the RBI has revised its inflation predictions downward, discussed sectors where growth could decelerate, and reassured markets of sufficient liquidity.
In a dovish policy move, the central bank reduced inflation forecasts for FY26 and the first half of FY27 by 60 bps and 50 bps, respectively, while raising its GDP forecast for FY26 to 7.3 percent.
Furthermore, the governor mentioned that in addition to the Rs 1.45 trillion liquidity provision in December, further funds could be made available if necessary.
The members of the RBI's MPC unanimously opted to decrease the repo rate by 25 basis points, bringing it down to 5.25 percent from 5.5 percent to encourage economic growth.
Analysts view the RBI’s repo rate cut as a strategic use of the monetary leeway created by low inflation to catalyze consumption and bolster the growth cycle.