Oslo, Norway - Norges Bank on Thursday maintained its key policy rate at 4.5 percent, but Governor Ida Wolden Bache signaled a potential rate cut in March. While acknowledging falling inflation and rising unemployment, Bache emphasized the need for caution due to potential pressures from rising business costs and the impact of US trade policies.

The central bank has kept interest rates elevated to combat inflation and cool the Norwegian economy. With inflation easing closer to the 2% target and unemployment creeping up, the bank believes conditions are ripe for a rate reduction in the near future.

The overnight lending rate remains at 5.5 percent, and the reserve rate stands at 3.5 percent.

Key Takeaways:

Norges Bank held the key policy rate at 4.5%.

Governor Bache hinted at a potential rate cut in March.

Inflation is falling, and unemployment is rising.
The bank is cautious about potential inflationary pressures from rising business costs and US trade policies.

This article provides a concise summary of the Norges Bank's decision, highlighting the key factors influencing the rate decision and the outlook for future policy adjustments.

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