ECB Expected to Hike Rates by 25 Basis Points Amid Inflation Surges

The European Central Bank (ECB) is anticipated to raise its key deposit rate by 25 basis points to 2.25% amid rising inflation concerns, according to analysts. April figures show headline euro zone inflation at 3.2%, driven by a 10.9% year-on-year increase in energy prices. Additionally, core inflation has risen to 2.5%, pointing to potential second-round effects. Market observers expect three more rate hikes this year as the ECB assesses the impact of elevated energy costs on economic growth and inflation projections.