Inflation Rate in the United States increased to 2.40 percent in May from 2.30 percent in April of 2025. This dataset provides - United States Inflation Rate - actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news.

Inflation Rate in Somalia increased to 3.90 percent in March from 3.20 percent in February of 2025. This dataset provides - Somalia Inflation Rate - actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news.

As of April 2025, the inflation rate in the European Union was 2.4 percent, with prices rising fastest in Romania, which had an inflation rate of 4.9 percent. By contrast, both France and Cyprus saw low inflation rates during the same period, with France having the lowest inflation rate in the EU during this month. The rate of inflation in the EU in the October 2022 was higher than at any other time, with the peak prior to 2021 recorded in July 2008 when prices were growing by 4.4 percent year-on-year. Before the recent rises in inflation, price rises in the EU had been kept at relatively low levels, with the inflation rate remaining below three percent between January 2012 and August 2021. Rapid recovery and energy costs driving inflation The reopening of the European economy in 2021 following the sudden shock of COVID-19 in 2020 is behind many of the factors that have caused prices to rise so quickly in 2022. Global supply chains have not yet recovered from production issues, travel restrictions, and workforce problems brought about by the pandemic. Rising energy costs have only served to exacerbate supply problems, particularly with regard to the transport sector, which had the highest inflation rate of any sector in the EU in December 2021. High inflation rates mirrored in the U.S. The high inflation rates seen in Europe have been reflected in other parts of the world. In the United States, for example, the consumer price index reached a 40-year-high of seven percent in December 2021, influenced by many of the same factors driving European inflation. Nevertheless, it is hoped that once these supply chain issues ease, inflation levels will start to fall throughout the course of 2022.

Inflation Rate in Luxembourg increased to 2.01 percent in May from 1.65 percent in April of 2025. This dataset provides - Luxembourg Inflation Rate - actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news.

Inflation Rate in Morocco decreased to 0.40 percent in May from 0.70 percent in April of 2025. This dataset provides - Morocco Inflation Rate - actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news.

The Consumer Price Index gauges the price changes in a basket of goods and services in a defined time period. During August 2024, the product category with the highest Consumer Price Index (CPI) increase compared with the previous month in Argentina was household, water, electricity, gas and other fuels with a seven percent increase. Followed by education with a 6.6 percent increase. Nonetheless, when compared with the previous year, communications registered the highest price increase with over 320 percent year-over-year. The expectation of inflation Despite Argentina’s efforts to reduce inflation, the country ranks in the top three Latin American countries with the highest rate, only with a lower figure than Venezuela and Suriname. The situation is not a recent one, the inflation rate has been reaching double digits every year since 2012, reaching over 50 percent in 2019, making the constant rising prices nothing out of the ordinary for Argentinian families. The expectation of inflation is one of the main causes of inflation with low central bank interest-rates and increases in the money supply, which helps to explain the chronic inflation of the country. Both firms and people expect inflation in their lives, workers demand increasing wages to coop with inflation, while companies increase prices of goods and services because they expect production costs to grow, creating a vicious circle in the economy. Inflation and poverty Inflation negatively affects consumers and savers alike. For the latter, 100 Argentinian pesos in 2020 was worth just under 52 pesos in 2021, after adjusting for the 48.41 percent inflation rate. For the consumers, rising prices of the basic products increase the vulnerability of the population. In January 2023, the value of the basic food basket, which establishes the extreme poverty line, stood at 23,315 pesos, more than ten times higher than during the same month in 2018. Between the first half of 2018 and the first half of 2022, the share of households under the poverty line increased by over 8 percentage points reaching 27.7 percent.

Prices in New Zealand rose by 1.72 percent in 2020. Central bankers at the Reserve Bank of New Zealand were surely relieved to see the rebound from the dangerously low .29 percent inflation in 2015.

What is inflation?

Inflation is the rise in price levels in an economy. 2 percent inflation means 100 New Zealand dollars will be worth 98 dollars in one year. While the precise inflation target varies, most economists agree that inflation between 2 to 3 percent is optimal for an economy. High inflation can lead to higher unemployment because firms would rather wait and higher workers at the same price using future dollars, making the labor relatively cheaper. However, it affects the trade balance because of the relatively higher purchasing power of foreign currencies.

Other risks of inflation and deflation

Inflation helps a country with higher national debt when the debt is in the local currency, because the country can repay with the future dollars which are relatively cheaper. Deflation, then, helps when debts are in a foreign currency. The main problem with deflation is that investors prefer to hold their money, waiting to invest until it is worth more. This is particularly true of countries like New Zealand, where the lion’s share of employment is in the services sector.

In 2020, the consumer price index (CPI) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) was the highest for beverages and tobacco, amounting to nearly 205. Since 2016, the consumer price index for beverages and tobacco has significantly increased from 102 to 205.

Consumer price index and inflation

The consumer price index is an economic indicator that measures the average changes in the price of consumer goods and services over time. The consumer price index helps in identifying periods of inflation and deflation. In 2020, the inflation rate in the Gulf Cooperation Council varied among member states; the United Arab Emirates had a negative inflation rate of 2.1 percent.

Inflation in the United Arab Emirates

The negative inflation rate in the UAE resulted from consumers' high purchase power due to the low unemployment rate and the government's effectiveness in trade and policy. In 2021, the United Arab Emirates had one of the lowest inflation rates in the world.

Automatic Central Air Inflation System Market Outlook

The global Automatic Central Air Inflation System Market is projected to witness robust growth over the next decade, with a market size estimated at USD 2.5 billion in 2023, expected to reach USD 4.8 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 7.1%. The growth factors driving this market are multifaceted, ranging from increasing demand for fuel efficiency and tire longevity to advancements in sensor technology and rising awareness of vehicle maintenance. The enhanced focus on vehicle safety, coupled with stringent regulations on emissions and tire performance, further propels the adoption of Automatic Central Air Inflation Systems across various vehicle types. This market is poised for substantial growth as manufacturers and consumers alike recognize the benefits of maintaining optimal tire pressure, including improved fuel economy and reduced tire wear.

One of the major growth factors for the Automatic Central Air Inflation System Market is the increasing emphasis on fuel efficiency. With rising fuel prices and growing environmental concerns, both consumers and manufacturers are looking for ways to reduce fuel consumption. Optimal tire pressure is crucial for achieving better fuel efficiency, as under-inflated tires can significantly increase rolling resistance and therefore fuel consumption. The integration of automatic tire inflation systems helps in maintaining the correct tire pressure, thereby enhancing fuel efficiency. This trend is particularly significant in commercial and passenger vehicles, where fuel savings can translate into substantial cost reductions over time.

Advancements in sensor and control technologies also play a pivotal role in the growth of this market. Modern automatic air inflation systems are equipped with sophisticated sensors and control units that provide real-time monitoring and adjustments of tire pressure. These advancements ensure quick and accurate responses to pressure changes, improving overall system reliability and performance. Furthermore, the advent of Internet of Things (IoT) and connectivity solutions has augmented the capabilities of these systems, enabling remote monitoring and control. This technological evolution not only enhances the user experience but also increases the system's adoption in various applications, including agriculture and off-highway vehicles.

The growing awareness of vehicle maintenance and safety is another crucial factor driving market growth. Proper tire inflation is essential for vehicle safety, as it affects handling, braking performance, and tire lifespan. Many governments and regulatory bodies have recognized this and have implemented stringent regulations to ensure tire safety, which in turn boosts the demand for automatic air inflation systems. Additionally, consumers are becoming more conscious of the importance of vehicle maintenance, leading to increased adoption of technologies that aid in maintaining optimal tire conditions. This shift in consumer behavior is expected to sustain the market's growth trajectory in the coming years.

Regionally, North America holds a significant share of the Automatic Central Air Inflation System Market, owing to the high adoption rate of advanced automotive technologies and stringent regulatory standards regarding vehicle safety and emissions. The region's market is anticipated to grow steadily, driven by the robust automotive industry and increasing consumer awareness. Europe is also a prominent market, with a strong focus on environmental sustainability and technological advancements in the automotive sector. The Asia Pacific region, however, is expected to witness the fastest growth, attributed to the expanding automotive industry in countries like China and India and the rising emphasis on vehicle efficiency and safety. The combination of these regional dynamics underscores the global market's potential and the diverse opportunities available for stakeholders across different geographies.

Component Analysis

The Automatic Central Air Inflation System Market is segmented by component into Control Units, Air Compressors, Valves, Sensors, and Others. Control units are a critical component of these systems, serving as the brain that manages the inflation process. They are responsible for interpreting data from sensors and making real-time adjustments to ensure optimal tire pressure. With the advent of intelligent control units that incorporate AI and machine learning algorithms, these components have become more sophisticated, offering enhanced precision and reliability. The increasing demand for smart vehicle solutions continue

Inflation Devices Market Outlook

The global inflation devices market size was estimated to be USD 500 million in 2023 and is projected to reach approximately USD 850 million by 2032, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.2% during the forecast period. The primary factors driving the growth of this market include advancements in minimally invasive surgical procedures, an increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, and a rising demand for technologically advanced devices.

One of the main growth factors of the inflation devices market is the rising prevalence of cardiovascular diseases, which are among the leading causes of death globally. Technological advancements in medical devices have significantly improved patient outcomes in procedures like angioplasty, where inflation devices are essential. The increasing number of such procedures, driven by a growing elderly population and unhealthy lifestyle choices, is expected to fuel the demand for these devices. Furthermore, the continuous development and adoption of minimally invasive surgical techniques, which utilize inflation devices, are boosting market growth.

Another critical factor contributing to the expansion of the inflation devices market is the increasing investment in healthcare infrastructure, particularly in emerging economies. Governments and private entities are increasingly investing in advanced medical facilities, which in turn raises the demand for sophisticated medical devices like inflation devices. Additionally, the rising awareness about the benefits of early diagnosis and treatment of various diseases is propelling the market. Educational initiatives and health campaigns have played an essential role in increasing the number of diagnostic and surgical procedures, thereby augmenting the utilization of inflation devices.

Moreover, innovations in material science and engineering have led to the development of more efficient and durable inflation devices. Devices with enhanced accuracy, safety, and ease of use are finding favor among healthcare professionals, thereby driving their adoption. The focus on patient safety and the need for precise control during procedures have resulted in widespread acceptance of advanced inflation devices. This trend is expected to continue as manufacturers invest in research and development to create even more sophisticated devices.

The advent of the Digital Inflation Device has marked a significant milestone in the evolution of inflation devices. These devices integrate digital technology to provide enhanced precision and control during medical procedures. By offering real-time feedback and data analytics, digital inflation devices empower healthcare professionals to make informed decisions, thereby improving patient outcomes. The incorporation of digital interfaces also facilitates easier operation and reduces the likelihood of human error, making these devices highly desirable in complex surgical environments. As the healthcare industry continues to embrace digital transformation, the demand for digital inflation devices is expected to rise, further propelling the growth of the inflation devices market.

Regionally, North America is expected to dominate the inflation devices market, owing to its well-established healthcare infrastructure, high adoption rate of advanced medical technologies, and significant healthcare expenditure. Europe follows closely due to similar factors, along with robust government support for healthcare innovation. The Asia Pacific region is anticipated to witness the highest growth rate due to increasing healthcare investments, a large patient pool, and rising awareness about advanced medical treatments. Latin America and Middle East & Africa are also expected to experience steady growth, driven by improving healthcare facilities and economic development.

Product Type Analysis

The product type segment of the inflation devices market can be broadly categorized into balloon inflation devices, syringe inflation devices, and others. Balloon inflation devices hold the largest share in this segment due to their widespread use in cardiovascular and interventional procedures. These devices are preferred by healthcare professionals for their precision and ease of use. The increasing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases, coupled with a rise in the number of angioplasty and other i

Cross-country regressions explaining output growth often obtain a negative effect from inflation. However, that result is not robust, due to the selection of countries in sample, temporal aggregation, and omission of consequential variables in levels. This paper demonstrates some implications of these mis-specifications, both analytically and empirically. In particular, for most G-7 countries, annual time series of inflation and the log-level of output are cointegrated, thus rejecting the existence of a long-run relation between output growth and inflation. Typically, output and inflation are positively related in these cointegrating relationships: a price markup model helps to interpret this surprising feature.

Inflation Rate in Mauritius increased to 4.20 percent in May from 3.80 percent in April of 2025. This dataset provides - Mauritius Inflation Rate - actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news.

Inflation Syringe Market Outlook

The global inflation syringe market size was valued at approximately $450 million in 2023 and is projected to reach around $700 million by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.1% during the forecast period. This growth is driven by the increasing prevalence of cardiovascular and urological diseases, as well as advancements in minimally invasive surgical techniques.

A significant growth factor for the inflation syringe market is the rising incidence of cardiovascular diseases globally. According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for nearly 31% of all global deaths. This rising prevalence necessitates an increase in diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, such as angioplasties, which require the use of inflation syringes for balloon catheter inflation. Moreover, the growing geriatric population, more susceptible to cardiovascular ailments, further propels the market demand.

Another crucial factor contributing to market growth is the advancements in medical technology, particularly in the field of minimally invasive surgeries. These procedures often require precise and controlled inflation devices to ensure patient safety and procedural efficiency. Innovations such as the integration of digital pressure gauges and ergonomic designs in inflation syringes enhance their efficacy and ease of use, thus boosting their adoption across various medical fields. Additionally, the increased investment in R&D activities by key market players to develop novel products with advanced features is likely to support market expansion.

The expanding healthcare infrastructure in developing regions is also a key driver of market growth. Countries in Asia Pacific and Latin America are witnessing substantial improvements in their healthcare facilities, driven by both government initiatives and private sector investments. The increase in the number of hospitals, diagnostic centers, and ambulatory surgical centers in these regions facilitates greater access to advanced medical procedures, including those requiring inflation syringes. Furthermore, increasing healthcare expenditure and awareness about early diagnosis and treatment of diseases are contributing to market growth.

The market for Balloon Inflation Devices Sales is experiencing a notable upswing, driven by the increasing demand for precise and reliable medical tools in cardiovascular interventions. These devices are crucial for procedures such as angioplasty, where controlled inflation of balloon catheters is essential for successful outcomes. The growing prevalence of coronary artery diseases and the shift towards minimally invasive techniques further bolster the sales of balloon inflation devices. As healthcare providers prioritize patient safety and procedural accuracy, the demand for advanced balloon inflation devices continues to rise, contributing significantly to the market's expansion.

Regionally, North America dominates the inflation syringe market, attributed to the high prevalence of chronic diseases, advanced healthcare infrastructure, and significant healthcare spending. Europe follows closely, driven by the presence of a well-established healthcare system and a growing elderly population. Asia Pacific is projected to witness the fastest growth rate during the forecast period, primarily due to rising healthcare investments, improving medical infrastructure, and increasing disease burden. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also expected to offer lucrative growth opportunities owing to evolving healthcare systems and increasing medical tourism.

Product Type Analysis

The product type segment of the inflation syringe market is bifurcated into balloon inflation syringes and standard inflation syringes. Balloon inflation syringes hold a significant share of the market due to their extensive application in angioplasty procedures. These syringes are specifically designed to provide precise control over the inflation of balloon catheters, which is critical for successful outcomes in cardiovascular interventions. The increasing incidence of coronary artery diseases and the growing preference for minimally invasive procedures are key factors driving the demand for balloon inflation syringes.

Standard inflation syringes, on the other hand, are widely used across various medical specialties, including rad

Inflation Rate in Russia decreased to 9.90 percent in May from 10.20 percent in April of 2025. This dataset provides - Russia Inflation Rate - actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news.

Balloon Inflation Devices Market Outlook

The global balloon inflation devices market size was valued at approximately USD 580 million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 920 million by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.1% during the forecast period. This growth can be attributed to a confluence of factors such as the increasing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases, advancements in medical device technologies, and a rising number of minimally invasive procedures. The surge in demand for efficient and precise inflation devices across various medical applications signifies the importance of these devices in modern healthcare settings.

A significant growth factor for the balloon inflation devices market is the increasing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases globally. With the rise in sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diets, and an aging population, cardiovascular diseases have become more rampant, necessitating an increased number of procedures like angioplasty that require balloon inflation devices. Coronary procedures, which are crucial for diagnosing and treating heart-related conditions, heavily rely on these devices to ensure proper and accurate dilation of vessels. As these procedures become more common, the demand for reliable balloon inflation devices is projected to grow, driving market expansion.

Technological advancements also play a vital role in the growth of the balloon inflation devices market. Innovations in medical device technologies have led to the development of more sophisticated and reliable inflation devices that offer better precision, ease of use, and enhanced safety features. For instance, automatic balloon inflation devices are gaining popularity due to their ability to provide consistent inflation pressures and reduce the risk of human error during procedures. Additionally, manufacturers are investing in research and development to produce devices that are more compatible with various medical procedures, thus broadening the application scope and prompting market growth.

The increasing adoption of minimally invasive procedures is another critical growth factor for the balloon inflation devices market. Minimally invasive procedures are preferred over traditional surgeries because they offer several benefits, including reduced recovery time, decreased risk of infection, and less pain for patients. Balloon inflation devices are integral to many of these procedures, especially those involving coronary and peripheral interventions. As healthcare providers and patients continue to favor minimally invasive techniques, the demand for high-quality balloon inflation devices is expected to rise, supporting market growth over the forecast period.

The regional outlook for the balloon inflation devices market shows significant potential for growth across different parts of the world. North America is expected to maintain its dominance over the forecast period due to advanced healthcare infrastructure and high awareness levels among healthcare professionals. In contrast, the Asia Pacific region is anticipated to witness the highest growth rate, driven by the increasing prevalence of lifestyle diseases and improving healthcare infrastructure. The growing middle-class population and increasing healthcare expenditure in countries like China and India further contribute to market growth in this region. As such, regional dynamics present a varied landscape for the market, with each area offering unique opportunities for expansion.

Product Type Analysis

The product type segment of the balloon inflation devices market is categorized into manual and automatic inflation devices. Manual inflation devices have long been a staple in medical procedures due to their simplicity and cost-effectiveness. These devices rely on the manual operation of healthcare professionals to control the inflation of balloons during medical procedures. Despite their widespread use, the market is witnessing a shift toward more advanced solutions as automatic inflation devices gain traction. The continued use of manual devices is supported by their affordability and ease of use, especially in regions with limited access to advanced healthcare equipment.

Automatic inflation devices are experiencing increasing demand due to their precision and operational efficiency. These devices are engineered to provide consistent inflation pressures, reducing the risk of errors that may occur with manual devices. They are particularly beneficial in complex procedures where precision and time are critical factors. The growing adoption of automatic devices is supported by technolog

Disposable Inflation Devices Market Outlook

The global disposable inflation devices market size was estimated to be approximately USD 600 million in 2023, and it is projected to reach around USD 950 million by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.2% during the forecast period. This growth is driven by multiple factors, including advances in medical technology and a growing demand for minimally invasive procedures. Disposable inflation devices are crucial in various medical applications, particularly those requiring precision and safety, such as cardiology and radiology. The increasing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases and the rise in diagnostic imaging procedures are critical growth drivers. Moreover, the shift towards single-use medical devices to curb hospital-acquired infections further propels market growth.

One of the significant growth factors for the disposable inflation devices market is the rising incidence of cardiovascular diseases globally. With cardiovascular diseases being a leading cause of mortality worldwide, there's an increasing emphasis on effective diagnosis and treatment, where disposable inflation devices play a pivotal role in procedures such as angioplasty. Additionally, the growing geriatric population, which is more prone to such diseases, fuels the demand for these devices. Medical advancements that enhance the efficiency and safety of inflation devices in clinical settings are also contributing to the market's expansion. These devices offer precise control over inflation and deflation processes, making them indispensable in complex medical procedures.

The trend towards minimally invasive surgical procedures is another powerful growth driver for the disposable inflation devices market. Minimally invasive techniques have gained popularity due to their benefits, such as reduced recovery time, minimized risk of infection, and less postoperative pain. Disposable inflation devices are crucial in these procedures, providing the necessary precision and control. Furthermore, the growing demand for outpatient surgeries and the expansion of ambulatory surgical centers are boosting the market. Patients and healthcare providers alike are increasingly opting for minimally invasive solutions as they offer better patient outcomes and cost-effectiveness, driving the demand for disposable inflation devices.

Moreover, technological innovations in disposable inflation devices are providing significant growth opportunities. Companies are investing in research and development to introduce advanced products with enhanced features such as improved ergonomics, digital displays, and pressure control mechanisms. These innovations not only improve the ease of use and accuracy of inflation devices but also enhance patient safety during procedures. The integration of digital technology allows for better monitoring and recording of procedural parameters, which can contribute to more informed clinical decisions. As healthcare facilities aim to improve operational efficiency and patient care, the demand for technologically advanced disposable inflation devices continues to rise.

Regionally, North America holds a substantial share of the disposable inflation devices market, driven by a high prevalence of chronic diseases, advanced healthcare infrastructure, and significant healthcare expenditure. The region’s strong focus on research and development in medical technology further bolsters market growth. Meanwhile, the Asia Pacific region is expected to experience the fastest growth during the forecast period. This growth can be attributed to the increasing healthcare investment, rising awareness of minimally invasive procedures, and expanding middle-class population, which boosts healthcare demand. Europe also exhibits considerable growth potential, supported by an aging population and substantial healthcare initiatives. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa, though smaller in market share, are gradually catching up due to improving healthcare facilities and increasing adoption of advanced medical devices.

Product Type Analysis

The disposable inflation devices market is segmented by product type into syringe-based inflation devices, balloon inflation devices, and others. Syringe-based inflation devices are widely used due to their simplicity and cost-effectiveness. These devices are particularly popular in procedures that require precise volume control and the ability to maintain steady pressure over extended periods. The syringe-based segment is growing as healthcare providers seek affordable yet reliable solutions for patient care. Additionally, advancements in s

Inflation Rate in Macau decreased to 0.19 percent in May from 0.23 percent in April of 2025. This dataset provides the latest reported value for - Macao Inflation Rate - plus previous releases, historical high and low, short-term forecast and long-term prediction, economic calendar, survey consensus and news.

In June 2024, the European Central Bank (ECB) began reducing its fixed interest rate for the first time since 2016, implementing a series of cuts. The rate decreased from 4.5 percent to 3.15 percent by year-end: a 0.25 percentage point cut in June, followed by additional reductions in September, October, and December. The central bank implemented other cuts in early 2025, setting the rate at 2.4 percent in April 2025. This marked a significant shift from the previous rate hike cycle, which began in July 2022 when the ECB raised rates to 0.5 percent and subsequently increased them almost monthly, reaching 4.5 percent by December 2023 - the highest level since the 2007-2008 global financial crisis. How does this ensure liquidity? Banks typically hold only a fraction of their capital in cash, measured by metrics like the Tier 1 capital ratio. Since this ratio is low, banks prefer to allocate most of their capital to revenue-generating loans. When their cash reserves fall too low, banks borrow from the ECB to cover short-term liquidity needs. On the other hand, commercial banks can also deposit excess funds with the ECB at a lower interest rate. Reasons for fluctuations
The ECB’s primary mandate is to maintain price stability. The Euro area inflation rate is, in theory, the key indicator guiding the ECB's actions. When the fixed interest rate is lower, commercial banks are more likely to borrow from the ECB, increasing the money supply and, in turn, driving inflation higher. When inflation rises, the ECB increases the fixed interest rate, which slows borrowing and helps to reduce inflation.

August 2024 marked a significant shift in the UK's monetary policy, as it saw the first reduction in the official bank base interest rate since August 2023. This change came after a period of consistent rate hikes that began in late 2021. In a bid to minimize the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Bank of England cut the official bank base rate in March 2020 to a record low of *** percent. This historic low came just one week after the Bank of England cut rates from **** percent to **** percent in a bid to prevent mass job cuts in the United Kingdom. It remained at *** percent until December 2021 and was increased to one percent in May 2022 and to **** percent in October 2022. After that, the bank rate increased almost on a monthly basis, reaching **** percent in August 2023. It wasn't until August 2024 that the first rate decrease since the previous year occurred, signaling a potential shift in monetary policy. Why do central banks adjust interest rates? Central banks, including the Bank of England, adjust interest rates to manage economic stability and control inflation. Their strategies involve a delicate balance between two main approaches. When central banks raise interest rates, their goal is to cool down an overheated economy. Higher rates curb excessive spending and borrowing, which helps to prevent runaway inflation. This approach is typically used when the economy is growing too quickly or when inflation is rising above desired levels. Conversely, when central banks lower interest rates, they aim to encourage borrowing and investment. This strategy is employed to stimulate economic growth during periods of slowdown or recession. Lower rates make it cheaper for businesses and individuals to borrow money, which can lead to increased spending and investment. This dual approach allows central banks to maintain a balance between promoting growth and controlling inflation, ensuring long-term economic stability. Additionally, adjusting interest rates can influence currency values, impacting international trade and investment flows, further underscoring their critical role in a nation's economic health. Recent interest rate trends Between 2021 and 2024, most advanced and emerging economies experienced a period of regular interest rate hikes. This trend was driven by several factors, including persistent supply chain disruptions, high energy prices, and robust demand pressures. These elements combined to create significant inflationary trends, prompting central banks to raise rates in an effort to temper spending and borrowing. However, in 2024, a shift began to occur in global monetary policy. The European Central Bank (ECB) was among the first major central banks to reverse this trend by cutting interest rates. This move signaled a change in approach aimed at addressing growing economic slowdowns and supporting growth.

Market research and public opinion polling companies offer valuable insights into consumer behaviour, values and opinions for businesses, media and public-sector departments. Demand for market research is heavily reliant on business investment and technological advancements, with research companies examining target markets to help businesses tailor their products, services and marketing strategies. The advent of digital platforms and advanced analytics is reshaping the market landscape, providing more efficient data collection methods and insights essential for strategic decision-making. Revenue is expected to expand at a compound annual rate of 2.3% over the five years through 2025 to €2.1 billion, despite being forecast to dip by 2.2% in 2025. The COVID-19 pandemic brought adverse economic conditions, reducing business spending on non-essential services like market research. A decline in advertising spend further hit demand in 2020. However, as restrictions eased, revenue shot up in 2021, as businesses aimed to understand how consumer behaviour was changing in the post-pandemic landscape. Digital advertising's recovery also supported this rebound. Following this, though, inflationary pressures and geopolitical tensions in late 2022 and 2023 curbed spending, as businesses grappled with higher operational costs, leading to a downturn in revenue for market research companies. Prolonged uncertainty and political instability further subdued business investment through 2024 and into 2025, reflected in stagnant demand for market research services. Improving economic conditions are anticipated to bolster the industry’s prospects in the coming years. As inflation eases and interest rates fall, businesses will increase R&D activities, renewing demand for detailed market insights. Opportunities will arise from strengthened collaborations with advertising agencies, aligning strategies based on data-driven insights. Technological advancements will continue to drive innovation, with AI and mobile technologies reshaping data collection and interpretation processes. However, advancing technology will also create challenges as more businesses leverage advanced tech like Gen AI to set up in-house market research solutions, reducing spending on external research companies. At the same time, social media will continue to offer real-time public opinion insights, optimising audience segmentation and sentiment analysis. Data privacy regulations like the GDPR will necessitate balancing innovation with compliance, presenting operational burdens.