The benchmark interest rate in the United Kingdom was last recorded at 4.25 percent. This dataset provides - United Kingdom Interest Rate - actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news.

Policy interest rates in the U.S. and Europe are forecasted to decrease gradually between 2024 and 2027, following exceptional increases triggered by soaring inflation between 2021 and 2023. The U.S. federal funds rate stood at **** percent at the end of 2023, the European Central Bank deposit rate at **** percent, and the Swiss National Bank policy rate at **** percent. With inflationary pressures stabilizing, policy interest rates are forecast to decrease in each observed region. The U.S. federal funds rate is expected to decrease to *** percent, the ECB refi rate to **** percent, the Bank of England bank rate to **** percent, and the Swiss National Bank policy rate to **** percent by 2025. An interesting aspect to note is the impact of these interest rate changes on various economic factors such as growth, employment, and inflation. The impact of central bank policy rates The U.S. federal funds effective rate, crucial in determining the interest rate paid by depository institutions, experienced drastic changes in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The subsequent slight changes in the effective rate reflected the efforts to stimulate the economy and manage economic factors such as inflation. Such fluctuations in the federal funds rate have had a significant impact on the overall economy. The European Central Bank's decision to cut its fixed interest rate in June 2024 for the first time since 2016 marked a significant shift in attitude towards economic conditions. The reasons behind the fluctuations in the ECB's interest rate reflect its mandate to ensure price stability and manage inflation, shedding light on the complex interplay between interest rates and economic factors. Inflation and real interest rates The relationship between inflation and interest rates is critical in understanding the actions of central banks. Central banks' efforts to manage inflation through interest rate adjustments reveal the intricate balance between economic growth and inflation. Additionally, the concept of real interest rates, adjusted for inflation, provides valuable insights into the impact of inflation on the economy.

Based on an "illustrative scenario" in which the United Kingdom (UK) moves to a comprehensive free trade agreement with the European Union (EU) on the 1st of January 2021, this forecast shows the expected annual average bank base interest rate in response to the current Covid-19 pandemic. In a bid to minimize the economic effects of the Covid-19 virus, on the 19th of March 2020 the Bank of England cut the official bank base rate to a record low of 0.1 percent. This historic low came just one week after the Bank of England cut rates from 0.75 percent to 0.25 percent in a bid to prevent mass job cuts in the United Kingdom. In the current forecast scenario, bank interest rates are set to stay between 0.1 percent and 0.2 percent up to 2022.

Key information about United Kingdom Long Term Interest Rate

• United Kingdom Long Term Interest Rate: Month Avg: United Kingdom: ECB Harmonised was reported at 4.52 % pa in Feb 2025, compared with 4.67 % pa in the previous month.
• UK Long Term Interest Rate data is updated monthly, available from Jan 1993 to Feb 2025.
• The data reached an all-time high of 8.99 % pa in Sep 1994 and a record low of 0.15 % pa in Jul 2020.
• Long Term Interest Rate is reported by reported by CEIC Data.

• In the latest reports, UK Short Term Interest Rate: Month End: ICE LIBOR: 3 Months was reported at 0.09 % pa in Apr 2021.
• The cash rate (Policy Rate: Month End: Base Rate) was set at 4.50 % pa in Feb 2025.
• UK Exchange Rate against USD averaged 0.79 (USD/GBP) in Jun 2023.

Due to interest rates decreasing in recent years, mortgages in the United Kingdom have become overall more affordable: In 2007, when mortgages were the least affordable, a home buyer spent on average 23.6 percent of their income on mortgage interest and 7.2 percent on capital repayment. In 2019, the year with the most affordable mortgages, mortgage interest accounted for 5.9 percent and capital repayment was 11.5 percent of their income. As interest rates increase in response to the rising inflation, mortgage affordability is expected to worsen. Though below the levels observed before 2007, the total mortgage repayment between 2022 and 2026 is expected to exceed 23 percent of income.

This statistic shows the forecasted Bank Rate in the United Kingdom (UK) from first quarter 2017 to first quarter 2024. The rate at which the Bank of England can loan money to commercial banks is set to increase gradually over this period, at a net increase of 1.2 percentage points.

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.

Key information about United Kingdom Short Term Interest Rate

• United Kingdom Short Term Interest Rate: Month End: ICE LIBOR: 3 Months was reported at 0.09 % pa in Apr 2021, compared with 0.09 % pa in the previous month.
• UK Short Term Interest Rate data is updated monthly, available from Jan 1986 to Apr 2021.
• The data reached an all-time high of 15.38 % pa in Apr 1990 and a record low of 0.03 % pa in Dec 2020.
• Short Term Interest Rate is reported by reported by ICE Benchmark Administration.

• In the latest reports, UK Long Term Interest Rate: Month Avg: United Kingdom: ECB Harmonised was reported at 3.95 % pa in May 2023.
• The cash rate (Policy Rate: Month End: Base Rate) was set at 4.50 % pa in May 2023.
• UK Exchange Rate against USD averaged 0.80 (USD/GBP) in May 2023.

Key information about United Kingdom Policy Rate

• United Kingdom cash rate (Policy Rate: Month End: Base Rate) was set at 4.50 % pa in Feb 2025, compared with 4.75 % pa in the previous Jan 2025.
• UK Policy Rate averaged 5.75 % pa and is updated monthly, available from Jun 1972 to Feb 2025.
• The data reached an all-time high of 17.00 % pa in Jun 1980 and a record low of 0.10 % pa in Nov 2021.

• In the latest reports, UK Short Term Interest Rate: Month End: ICE LIBOR: 3 Months was reported at 0.09 % pa in Apr 2021.
• Its Long Term Interest Rate (Long Term Interest Rate: Month Avg: United Kingdom: ECB Harmonised ) was reported at 4.67 % pa in Jan 2025.
• UK Exchange Rate against USD averaged 0.79 (USD/GBP) in Jun 2023.
• Its Real Effective Exchange Rate was 87.74 in Jan 2025.

Between January 2018 and May 2025, the United Kingdom's consumer price inflation rate showed notable volatility. The rate hit its lowest point at *** percent in August 2020 and peaked at *** percent in October 2022. By September 2024, inflation had moderated to *** percent, but the following months saw inflation increase again. The Bank of England's interest rate policy closely tracked these inflationary trends. Rates remained low at -* percent until April 2020, when they were reduced to *** percent in response to economic challenges. A series of rate increases followed, reaching a peak of **** percent from August 2023 to July 2024. The central bank then initiated rate cuts in August and November 2024, lowering the rate to **** percent, signaling a potential shift in monetary policy. In February 2025, the Bank of England implemented another rate cut, setting the bank rate at *** percent, which was further reduced to **** percent in May 2025. Global context of inflation and interest rates The UK's experience reflects a broader international trend of rising inflation and subsequent central bank responses. From January 2022 to July 2024, advanced and emerging economies alike increased their policy rates to counter inflationary pressures. However, a shift began in late 2024, with many countries, including the UK, starting to lower rates. This change suggests a potential new phase in the global economic cycle and monetary policy approach. Comparison with other major economies The UK's monetary policy decisions align closely with those of other major economies. The United States, for instance, saw its federal funds rate peak at **** percent in August 2023, mirroring the UK's rate trajectory. Similarly, central bank rates in the EU all increased drastically between 2022 and 2024. These synchronized movements reflect the global nature of inflationary pressures and the coordinated efforts of central banks to maintain economic stability. As with the UK, both the U.S. and EU began considering rate cuts in late 2024, signaling a potential shift in the global economic landscape.

Graph and download economic data for 10-Year Real Interest Rate (REAINTRATREARAT10Y) from Jan 1982 to Jun 2025 about 10-year, interest rate, interest, real, rate, and USA.

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Debt Financing Market Size 2025-2029

The debt financing market size is forecast to increase by USD 7.89 billion at a CAGR of 6.4% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the tax advantages of debt financing for businesses. The ability to deduct interest payments from taxable income makes debt financing an attractive option for companies seeking capital. Another key trend in the market is the increasing collaboration and mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity, which often involves the use of debt financing to fund transactions. However, it is important to note that collateral may be necessary for some forms of debt financing, adding layer of complexity to the process.
Companies seeking to capitalize on these opportunities must navigate the challenges of securing adequate collateral and managing debt levels to maintain financial health and wellness. Effective debt management strategies, such as optimizing debt structures and maintaining strong credit ratings, will be essential for companies looking to succeed in this dynamic market. Debt financing is a significant component of the regional capital markets, with financial institutions, banks, and insurance companies serving as major players.

What will be the Size of the Debt Financing Market during the forecast period?

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The market encompasses various debt instruments issued by entities to secure funds for business operations and growth. Market dynamics are influenced by several factors, including interest rate cycles, monetary policy, and economic growth. Basel Accords and the Financial Stability Board set standards for financial institutions' risk management and capital adequacy, impacting debt issuance. Government debt, securitization transactions, and various debt instruments like interest rate swaps, loan-to-value ratios, and credit-linked notes, shape the market landscape. Market volatility, driven by factors such as business cycles, credit spreads, and risk appetite, influences investor sentiment. Debt sustainability, fiscal policy, and ESG investing are increasingly important considerations for issuers and investors.
Asset managers are focusing on leveraging technology and data analytics to improve operational efficiency and meet the evolving needs of investors. The market is, however, not without challenges, with regulatory compliance and interest rate risks being major concerns. Overall, the income asset management market in North America is poised for steady growth, driven by the demand for debt financing and wealth management solutions, and the increasing adoption of advanced analytics and ETFs.

How is this Debt Financing Industry segmented?

The debt financing industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Source

  Private
  Public


Type

  Long-term
  Short-term
  Long-term


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    Spain
    UK


  APAC

    China
    Japan
    South Korea


  Middle East and Africa



  South America

By Source Insights

The private segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. Debt financing is a popular financing method for businesses seeking to expand operations while maintaining ownership. Private debt financing, in particular, has gained significant traction among financial specialists worldwide due to its importance in funding small- and mid-sized organizations globally. The demand for debt financing by startups has increased annually, leading to the sector's substantial growth over the last five years. This financing option's flexibility enables businesses to customize their financing solutions to address specific needs, making it an allure for numerous organizations. Private debt financing encompasses various instruments such as Real Estate Debt, Term Loans, Leveraged Buyouts, Asset Securitization, Infrastructure Financing, Loan Servicing, and more.

Financial Leverage, Debt Covenants, Credit Risk, and Interest Rate Risk are essential considerations in this sector. Hedge Funds, Collateralized Loan Obligations, High Yield Debt, and Investment Grade Debt are alternative investment areas. Private Equity, Syndicated Loans, Venture Debt, Bridge Financing, and Mezzanine Financing are also integral components. Financial Institutions offer various debt financing solutions, including Capital Markets, Expansion Financing, Growth Capital, Debt Refinancing, and Debt Consolidation. Financial Modeling, Return on Investment, and Risk Management are crucial aspects of debt financing. Debt Advisory, Financial Engineering, and Debt Capital Markets are essential services in this field. Small Business Loans, Supp

Mortgage rates increased at a record pace in 2022, with the 10-year fixed mortgage rate doubling between March 2022 and December 2022. With inflation increasing, the Bank of England introduced several bank rate hikes, resulting in higher mortgage rates. In May 2025, the average 10-year fixed rate interest rate reached **** percent. As borrowing costs get higher, demand for housing is expected to decrease, leading to declining market sentiment and slower house price growth. How have the mortgage hikes affected the market? After surging in 2021, the number of residential properties sold declined in 2023, reaching just above *** million. Despite the number of transactions falling, this figure was higher than the period before the COVID-19 pandemic. The falling transaction volume also impacted mortgage borrowing. Between the first quarter of 2023 and the first quarter of 2024, the value of new mortgage loans fell year-on-year for five straight quarters in a row. How are higher mortgages affecting homebuyers? Homeowners with a mortgage loan usually lock in a fixed rate deal for two to ten years, meaning that after this period runs out, they need to renegotiate the terms of the loan. Many of the mortgages outstanding were taken out during the period of record-low mortgage rates and have since faced notable increases in their monthly repayment. About **** million homeowners are projected to see their deal expire by the end of 2026. About *** million of these loans are projected to experience a monthly payment increase of up to *** British pounds by 2026.

The UK retail banking market, valued at approximately £68.77 billion in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, driven by several key factors. The increasing adoption of digital banking solutions, including online platforms and mobile apps, is significantly impacting market dynamics. Consumers are increasingly demanding convenient and personalized financial services, prompting banks to invest heavily in technological upgrades and user-friendly interfaces. Furthermore, the rise of fintech companies is fostering competition and innovation, leading to the introduction of new products and services, such as mobile payment systems and personalized financial management tools. While Brexit initially presented challenges, the market has shown resilience, with banks adapting to new regulatory environments and focusing on strengthening customer relationships. The segment showing the strongest growth is likely online banking, driven by younger demographics' preference for digital interactions and increased smartphone penetration. However, the market also faces constraints such as increasing regulatory scrutiny, cybersecurity threats, and the need for continuous investment in technology to maintain a competitive edge. Growth in the wealth management segment will also contribute to the overall market expansion, fueled by a rising affluent population and increasing demand for sophisticated investment services. The continued expansion of the market is expected to be spread across multiple channels, reflecting the diverse preferences of UK consumers. The projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.45% suggests a consistent, albeit moderate, expansion of the UK retail banking market over the forecast period (2025-2033). This growth is likely to be influenced by macroeconomic factors such as economic growth, inflation, and interest rates. The market's segmentation highlights the diverse nature of customer needs, with significant opportunities for banks to cater to specific demographics, such as high-net-worth individuals and small businesses. Strategic partnerships with fintech companies and the development of innovative financial products tailored to specific segments will play a crucial role in determining future market leaders. The continued dominance of established players such as HSBC, Barclays, and Lloyds Banking Group is anticipated, but they will likely face increased competition from challenger banks and international players. The overall market outlook remains positive, contingent upon maintaining macroeconomic stability and sustained consumer confidence. This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the UK retail banking market, covering the period from 2019 to 2033. It delves into market dynamics, competitive landscapes, and future growth projections, providing invaluable insights for businesses and investors operating within or considering entry into this dynamic sector. The report utilizes data from the historical period (2019-2024), with a base year of 2025 and a forecast period spanning 2025-2033. The study highlights key trends, challenges, and opportunities within the £XXX million market. Recent developments include: August 2024: Lloyds Bank launched a USD 137 cash offer for students opening current accounts. To qualify, students must deposit at least USD 622 between August 1 and October 31, 2024. Student account holders will also receive a 20% discount on selected Student Union events and can earn 2% interest on balances up to USD 6,219.September 2023: HSBC pioneered a partnership with Nova Credit, making it the first UK bank to allow newcomers to access their credit history from abroad. This initiative aims to facilitate smoother financial integration for individuals relocating to the United Kingdom.. Key drivers for this market are: The Shift Toward Digital Banking, with Customers Increasingly Using Online and Mobile Banking Services. Potential restraints include: The Shift Toward Digital Banking, with Customers Increasingly Using Online and Mobile Banking Services. Notable trends are: Deposit Trends and Digital Transformation Driving Traditional Banking.

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Foreign Exchange Market Size 2025-2029

The foreign exchange market size is forecast to increase by USD 582 billion, at a CAGR of 10.6% between 2024 and 2029.

The Foreign Exchange Market is segmented by type (reporting dealers, financial institutions, non-financial customers), trade finance instruments (currency swaps, outright forward and FX swaps, FX options), trading platforms (electronic trading, over-the-counter (OTC), mobile trading), and geography (North America: US, Canada; Europe: Germany, Switzerland, UK; Middle East and Africa: UAE; APAC: China, India, Japan; South America: Brazil; Rest of World). This segmentation reflects the market's global dynamics, driven by institutional trading, increasing digital adoption through electronic trading and mobile trading, and regional economic activities, with APAC markets like India and China showing significant growth alongside traditional hubs like the US and UK.
The market is experiencing significant shifts driven by the escalating trends of urbanization and digitalization. These forces are creating 24x7 trading opportunities, enabling greater accessibility and convenience for market participants. However, the market's dynamics are not without challenges. The uncertainty of future exchange rates poses a formidable obstacle for businesses and investors alike, necessitating robust risk management strategies. As urbanization continues to expand and digital technologies reshape the trading landscape, market players must adapt to remain competitive. One significant trend is the increasing use of money transfer agencies, venture capital investments, and mutual funds in foreign exchange transactions. Companies seeking to capitalize on these opportunities must navigate the challenges effectively, ensuring they stay abreast of exchange rate fluctuations and implement agile strategies to mitigate risk.
The ability to adapt and respond to these market shifts will be crucial for success in the evolving market.

What will be the Size of the Foreign Exchange Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
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In the dynamic and intricate realm of the market, entities such as algorithmic trading, order book, order management systems, and liquidity risk intertwine, shaping the ever-evolving market landscape. The market's continuous unfolding is characterized by the integration of various components, including sentiment analysis, Fibonacci retracement, mobile trading, and good-for-the-day orders. Market activities are influenced by factors like political stability, monetary policy, and market liquidity, which in turn impact economic growth and trade settlement. Technical analysis, with its focus on chart patterns and moving averages, plays a crucial role in informing trading decisions. The market's complexity is further amplified by the presence of entities like credit risk, counterparty risk, and operational risk.

Central bank intervention, order execution, clearing and settlement, and trade confirmation are essential components of the market's infrastructure, ensuring a seamless exchange of currencies. Geopolitical risk, currency correlation, and inflation rates contribute to currency volatility, necessitating hedging strategies and risk management. Market risk, interest rate differentials, and commodity currencies influence trading strategies, while cross-border payments and brokerage services facilitate international trade. The ongoing evolution of the market is marked by the emergence of advanced trading platforms, automated trading, and real-time data feeds, enabling traders to make informed decisions in an increasingly interconnected and complex global economy.

How is this Foreign Exchange Industry segmented?

The foreign exchange industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Type

  Reporting dealers
  Financial institutions
  Non-financial customers


Trade Finance Instruments

  Currency swaps
  Outright forward and FX swaps
  FX options


Trading Platforms

  Electronic Trading
  Over-the-Counter (OTC)
  Mobile Trading


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    Germany
    Switzerland
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    UAE


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Type Insights

The reporting dealers segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market is a dynamic and complex ecosystem where various entities interplay to manage currency risks and facilitate international trade. Reporting dealers, as key participants,

United Kingdom UK: Risk Premium on Lending: Lending Rate Minus Treasury Bill Rate data was reported at 0.120 % pa in 2014. This records a decrease from the previous number of 0.199 % pa for 2013. United Kingdom UK: Risk Premium on Lending: Lending Rate Minus Treasury Bill Rate data is updated yearly, averaging 0.280 % pa from Dec 1967 (Median) to 2014, with 48 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1.995 % pa in 1972 and a record low of -2.372 % pa in 1974. United Kingdom UK: Risk Premium on Lending: Lending Rate Minus Treasury Bill Rate data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United Kingdom – Table UK.World Bank.WDI: Interest Rates. Risk premium on lending is the interest rate charged by banks on loans to private sector customers minus the 'risk free' treasury bill interest rate at which short-term government securities are issued or traded in the market. In some countries this spread may be negative, indicating that the market considers its best corporate clients to be lower risk than the government. The terms and conditions attached to lending rates differ by country, however, limiting their comparability.; ; International Monetary Fund, International Financial Statistics database.; ;

From 2003 to 2025, the central banks of the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union exhibited remarkably similar interest rate patterns, reflecting shared global economic conditions. In the early 2000s, rates were initially low to stimulate growth, then increased as economies showed signs of overheating prior to 2008. The financial crisis that year prompted sharp rate cuts to near-zero levels, which persisted for an extended period to support economic recovery. The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 led to further rate reductions to historic lows, aiming to mitigate economic fallout. However, surging inflation in 2022 triggered a dramatic policy shift, with the Federal Reserve, Bank of England, and European Central Bank significantly raising rates to curb price pressures. As inflation stabilized in late 2023 and early 2024, the ECB and Bank of England initiated rate cuts by mid-2024, and the Federal Reserve also implemented its first cut in three years, with forecasts suggesting a gradual decrease in all major interest rates between 2025 and 2026. Divergent approaches within the European Union While the ECB sets a benchmark rate for the Eurozone, individual EU countries have adopted diverse strategies to address their unique economic circumstances. For instance, Hungary set the highest rate in the EU at 13 percent in September 2023, gradually reducing it to 6.5 percent by October 2024. In contrast, Sweden implemented more aggressive cuts, lowering its rate to 2.25 percent by February 2025, the lowest among EU members. These variations highlight the complex economic landscape that European central banks must navigate, balancing inflation control with economic growth support. Global context and future outlook The interest rate changes in major economies have had far-reaching effects on global financial markets. Government bond yields, for example, reflect these policy shifts and investor sentiment. As of December 2024, the United States had the highest 10-year government bond yield among developed economies at 4.59 percent, while Switzerland had the lowest at 0.27 percent. These rates serve as important benchmarks for borrowing costs and economic expectations worldwide.

UK Commercial Property Reit Ltd stock may see an upward trend due to strong rental demand and low vacancy rates. However, risks include rising interest rates, which could impact property values and reduce demand. There is also a risk that the UK economy could slow down, which could lead to decreased demand for commercial property.

Graph and download economic data for Daily Sterling Overnight Index Average (SONIA) Rate (IUDSOIA) from 1997-01-02 to 2025-06-26 about sonia, Sterling, overnight, average, interest rate, interest, rate, and indexes.