Inflation
Mexico's annual inflation rises to 4.63% in early March
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Mexico's National Institute of Statistics and Geography (Inegi) reported annual inflation at 4.63% for the first half of March 2026, exceeding analysts' estimates. The National Consumer Price Index (INPC) rose 0.62% from the previous half-month period.
Mexico's central bank (Banxico) cut its benchmark rate by 25 basis points to 6.75% on March 26, 2026—following its prior reduction to 7% in December 2025—approved by a 3-2 vote amid persistent inflationary pressures from fruit/vegetable surges and geopolitical tensions. The Board signaled potential for another cut based on evolving conditions, with analysts split on timing.
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India's 10-year benchmark bond yield rose 7 basis points to 6.94% on Friday, signaling concerns over inflation and potential monetary tightening. High Brent crude prices above $100 per barrel, driven by the West Asia conflict, have intensified fears, compounded by the rupee falling below 94 to the dollar.
Global markets tumbled as US-Iran tensions and prolonged Israeli conflict drove oil prices higher. Asian shares and futures dipped, with investors preparing for extended fighting. The inflationary pressures have reduced expectations for central bank rate cuts.
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Conab and Dieese data show that São Paulo's basic food basket cost R$ 852.87 in February, the highest among Brazilian capitals, equating to 56.88% of the minimum wage. It requires 115 hours and 45 minutes of work to purchase, the longest time recorded. Despite a 0.18% drop from January, costs remain high.
Brazil's National Treasury repurchased R$ 27.5 billion in public bonds on Monday (16) to curb surging future interest rates, driven by the war in Iran and rising oil prices. The operation, the largest since 2020, precedes the Copom meeting on the Selic rate, currently at 15% per year. Expectations point to a smaller rate cut.
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Inflation remains Filipinos' top national concern at 59% in Pulse Asia's Q1 2026 survey, unchanged from late 2025, followed by fighting corruption (47%, down slightly from 48%) and raising workers' pay (36%, from 39%). The February 27-March 2 poll shows minimal shifts amid global oil price pressures from US-Israel strikes on Iran.
Gold prices crash on inflation concerns amid West Asia war
March 26, 2026 18:17Sarb holds repo rate at 6.75% amid Iran war risks
March 26, 2026 02:06Central Bank cuts reserves by 5 points to boost credit
March 25, 2026 21:35Bank of France lowers growth forecasts for 2026 and 2027
March 23, 2026 04:33Analysts forecast gradual dollar rise from April
March 20, 2026 16:50Milei cuts rates despite inflation alarms
March 20, 2026 14:17Iran war's 21 days bring 21 impacts on India
March 19, 2026 17:11BOJ maintains policy rate at 0.75% amid Middle East uncertainty
March 19, 2026 08:04Philippine peso closes at record low of P60.10 per dollar
March 18, 2026 05:21February inflation hit low-income households harder