Growing economic concerns in the UK pose a challenge for the Central Bank of England

According to Jinshi Data on January 24th, the optimism of British companies has dropped to its lowest level since former Prime Minister Tras' 'mini budget'. Chris Williamson, Chief Business Economist at S&P Global Market Intelligence, said, 'The first indicator reflecting business conditions in 2025 has increased concerns about the UK economy. At the same time, inflationary pressures have risen again, indicating stagflation, bringing more policy challenges to the Bank of England.' Companies are facing cost challenges and the sales price index has soared to its highest level since mid-2023, which is likely to be discussed by the Bank of England before the Interest Rate decision on February 6. Due to persistent inflationary pressures, investors expect the Bank of England to cut interest rates by 25 basis points two to three times in 2025, with the first rate cut possibly in February.