The ECB’s second round of long-term loans came in at the low end of analysts’ estimates, bolstering the case for the institution to start large-scale quantitative easing.

The International Monetary Fund has raised its concerns about the Government’s decision not to implement austerity measures in Budget 2015.

Inflation in the eurozone edged up slightly in October, reinforcing the view that the ECB will hold fire on any additional policy action at its meeting next week.

Economic sentiment in the eurozone unexpectedly rose in October in a sign that the 18-nation region has moved one step away from a renewed economic downturn.

ECB president Mario Draghi has signalled that policy makers are concerned that the euro’s strength will hamper their efforts to pull the economy out of recession.

The ECB chief’s plan is awaited with interest by the markets, writes Alan Wheatley

EURO-region inflation slowed for the first time in five months in December, giving the European Central Bank room to lower borrowing costs further as the economy edges toward a recession.

THE eurozone economy grew just 0.2% in the third quarter, as solid growth in Germany and France was dampened by countries at the sharp end of the debt crisis and economists expect a slide into recession by early next year.

TRACKER mortgage holders are likely to be spared any interest rate increases in the coming months, with the European Central Bank (ECB) signalling rates will remain at their record low rate.

HOMEOWNERS received further confirmation yesterday that interest rates will remain at their record low over the coming months.