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RBI MPC Minutes Signal Hold at 5.50% and Neutral Stance, Citing Tariff Uncertainty

The minutes cast US tariff uncertainty as the main drag on growth.

A woman buys dry fruits from a shop in a wholesale market in the old quarters of Delhi, India, April 2, 2025. REUTERS/Priyanshu Singh/File Photo
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Sanjay Malhotra attends a press conference after a monetary policy review in Mumbai, India, April 9, 2025. REUTERS/Francis Mascarenhas/File Photo
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Overview

  • The committee unanimously kept the policy rate unchanged and retained a neutral stance after 100 basis points of cuts earlier this year, stressing a data‑dependent approach.
  • The RBI lowered its CPI inflation forecast to 3.1%, with members noting near‑term undershooting and a rise projected from the third quarter.
  • Three of six MPC members said there was room to cut in August, but the panel opted to wait for clearer transmission and clarity on trade developments.
  • Members referenced reported US actions that could raise tariffs on some Indian exports to as much as 50% from August 27, flagging a risk to external demand and investment.
  • Transmission of past easing is still playing out, with a CRR reduction expected next month to add liquidity, while growth is projected at 6.5% with buoyant rural activity and sluggish urban spending.