Interest rates remaining unchanged
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
The December headline inflation fell to 3.8 percent last week, providing scope for further lowering of interest under the central bank accommodative monetary policy stance.
However, analysts believe the recent inflation rate fall is primarily pushed by the temporary drop in fuel prices, and does not signify any easing of underlying inflationary pressures.
Whilst celebrating milestones in inclusivity, with notably P5 billion awarded to vulnerable groups, the report sounds a 'siren' on a dangerous and growing trend: the ballooning use of micro-procurement. That this method, designed for small-scale, efficient purchases, now accounts for a staggering 25% (P8 billion) of total procurement value is not a sign of agility, but a 'red flag'. The PPRA’s warning is unequivocal and must be...