ECB holds rates steady as inflation shows uneven progress

The European Central Bank left its policy rates unchanged at its latest meeting, citing mixed inflation signals across the euro area and a cautious assessment of growth. Policymakers signalled that further moves will be data-dependent and emphasised the need to balance inflation control with growth support. Markets interpreted the decision as a temporary pause in the easing cycle rather than the end of policy action. Investors will next monitor regional consumer-price prints and wage data for hints on the ECB’s next steps.