Pakistan's Central Bank Surprises with Interest Rate Hold Amid Inflation Concerns

In a surprising move, Pakistan's central bank maintained its key interest rate at 11% on Wednesday. The decision, revealed in their statement, contradicts the expectation among analysts who anticipated a rate cut due to current economic conditions.

A Reuters poll earlier this week showed that all 15 analysts predicted the central bank would ease rates, with varying expectations on the size of the rate cut. The bank's decision comes in the wake of worsened inflation outlook caused by unpredictable energy prices.

This rate hold is part of Pakistan's broader economic reform efforts under a $7 billion IMF program, navigating challenges such as a widening trade deficit and slower global economic activity.

(With inputs from agencies.)