Howard Archer

This underpins our belief that the Bank of England is too optimistic on the growth outlook and will eventually end read more

This underpins our belief that the Bank of England is too optimistic on the growth outlook and will eventually end up trimming interest rates by a further 25 basis points.

In economic terms at least, Wednesday's budget seems set to be a very low key affair.

In economic terms at least, Wednesday's budget seems set to be a very low key affair.

Nevertheless, limited core inflation in January will not deter the ECB from hiking interest rates by a further 25 basis read more

Nevertheless, limited core inflation in January will not deter the ECB from hiking interest rates by a further 25 basis points on Thursday.

Overall, the mortgage approvals and lending data indicate that the more robust housing market activity evident in the second half read more

Overall, the mortgage approvals and lending data indicate that the more robust housing market activity evident in the second half of 2005 has continued into 2006.

Pretty healthy retail sales growth in November reinforces belief that consumer spending is picking up to some extent, and reduces read more

Pretty healthy retail sales growth in November reinforces belief that consumer spending is picking up to some extent, and reduces the case for a near-term interest rate cut.