Eurobank rate unchanged

The European Central Bank left its key interest rate untouched today, even as a soaring euro made some economists worry about prospects for growth in the 12 countries that use the currency.

The bank’s 18 member governing council, meeting in Frankfurt, left the refinancing rate at 2%, where it has been since a half-point cut in June.

Meanwhile, the Bank of England stayed steady on interest rates, which was widely expected by the market.

Its benchmark rate remains unchanged at 3.75%.

Economists are looking for a rise in rates as early as February, in order to counter rising British house prices and consumer borrowings.