Alas, a fall in inflation in June, but the not-so-good news is that UK prices are still on the rise. ??
The big question now is, will the Bank of England (BoE) continue its hiking cycle? With interest rates being the only lever at their discretion (Danny Alexander ?? kindly clarified), we might be wondering how deep the next rate increase will be, or whether the BoE will pause to allow their previous hikes to settle in. ?? On the other hand, is the government really focused on promoting growth, or have they run out of ideas?
"Independence" v "Siloism"
?? From a strategic (macro?) governance perspective, we must ponder whether the current independence of the BoE from the government is suitable in today's interwoven and interconnected world that requires swift and hopefully effective action with deep collaboration.
?? Could the current format of the BoE's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) and the Treasury be accused of "siloism"? Do these institutions have a holistic, complementary view and strategy on how to navigate the challenges of high interest rates and limited growth? Should they, or is independence still critical?
? When is independence useful and justifiable?
27% jump in UK insolvencies
?? Unfortunately, this never-ending interest rate hiking cycle continues to impact SMEs and other businesses that heavily rely on debt, be it overdrafts or fixed/floating loan facilities. ?? Business insolvency in the UK has surged by 27% year on year, as the hiking cycle begins to claim its casualties.
Hamper sustainable models and lifestyles
From a sustainability standpoint, high interest rates and a sluggish economy will likely discourage businesses from developing and transitioning into sustainable models. ? This could undermine the opportunities and benefits of achieving Net Zero by 2030 and embracing the circular economy.
? SMEs and businesses aiming for sustainable transformation will require greater financial support to maintain the momentum.
?? Moreover, middle- and low-income consumers may reconsider their transition to a sustainable lifestyle. If the BoE and the government struggle to rein in essential food prices, such as bread ?? , milk ?? , and eggs ?? , it becomes challenging to see how sustainable products and services will remain affordable. Indeed, we need to question whether these sustainable offerings are considered discretionary or non-discretionary spending.
What do you think? Please share your thoughts.
Thanks, Mimi
A non-economist perspective ??
#sustainability #costoflivingcrisis #sustainablelifestyle #SMEs #inflation
Former Managing Director Merrill Lynch Asia (2006-2008) Former Managing Director Morgan Stanley Co (1995-2006)
This is a great post Mohamed and refreshing for us to remember. 7-8% inflation might be better than 9 but it is still absolutely hideous and massive negative real rates continue to steal incomes and wealth from the poor. That said, it is very pleasing to see progress finally. The only other method of inflation containment isn't pretty; price controls and wage freezes. Desperate measures for a world's leading economy but now hopefully unnecessary.