Tel Aviv [Israel], November 25 (ANI/TPS): After nearly two years, the Bank of Israel lowered its interest rate, cutting it by a quarter of a percentage point to 4.25 per cent on Monday. This marks the first reduction since January 2024, ending a stretch of 14 consecutive decisions in which the rate remained unchanged at 4.5 per cent.

The Monetary Committee, led by Governor Professor Amir Yaron, made the decision amid months of inflation running below the target range and ongoing political pressure.

Inflation currently stands at 2.5 per cent, comfortably within the Bank's 1 per cent-3 per cent target, and has remained below the centre of that range for several months. An initial cut had long been expected.

The reduction is expected to directly impact families and mortgage holders across the country. For an average mortgage of NIS 1 million (USD 310,000) over 25 years, monthly repayments will initially drop by around 70 shekels (USD 21), translating to over NIS 20,000 (USD 6,100) in savings across the life of the loan. Estimates from the Mortgage Advisors Association suggest annual savings for mortgage holders will range from NIS 720-2,300 (USD 220- USD 700).

The new interest rate will take effect on Thursday, allowing banks time to adjust.

Economic activity in Israel has shown signs of recovery. GDP expanded at an annualised rate of 12.4 per cent in the third quarter, though the overall level remains below the long-term trend. The labour market continues to be tight, with a high ratio of vacant jobs to unemployed individuals, and wage growth remains strong. Apartment prices have declined for seven consecutive months, with fewer purchase transactions, while local stock indexes have risen relative to global markets.

The shekel has also strengthened, appreciating 1.3 per cent against the dollar and 2.9 per cent against the euro since the last interest rate decision. The capital market had largely anticipated a rate cut, with stock and bond markets already reflecting the change. Analysts point to a combination of global interest rate declines, reduced risk premiums following a ceasefire with Hamas, and moderated inflation as key factors behind the timing. (ANI/TPS)