Kazakhstan's National Bank signals readiness for gradual rate cuts in 2026The National Bank of Kazakhstan is prepared to begin a phased cycle of interest rate cuts in 2026 as inflation declines, National Bank Chairman Timur Suleimenov said Thursday."As inflationary expectations decrease, next year we will be ready to begin a gradual, phased cycle of reducing the base rate," Suleimenov said at a plenary session of the Senate.He said a package of government measures to counter rising tariffs will help lower inflationary expectations."We will continue to maintain a moderately tight monetary policy to curb consumer behavior and stimulate saving. We see that this approach is working across all parameters," the head of the regulator said.The announcement comes after Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov recently cited a need to intensify measures for stabilizing prices and consumer lending amid inflationary pressure from external markets.The National Bank raised its base rate to 18% in October, after holding it at 16.5% for several months. Annual inflation in Kazakhstan slowed to 12.6% that same month.Annual inflation in Kazakhstan slowed to 12.6% in October. (ICE ALMATY)

Fonte notizia: INTERFAX