The Bank of England ("BoE") has left policy unchanged in the short term. Still, it may accelerate rate cuts in the final quarter of 2024 with weakening economic momentum, cracks in the labour market, and softening manufacturing outputs signalling a need for further easing. However, persistent inflationary pressures, especially in core and services prices, keep policymakers cautious. Market expectations of rate cuts are rising, with economists predicting the bank rate could fall as low as 3% next year. BoE's Catherine Mann remains cautious on a rapid rate cut cycle though, advocating for maintaining restrictive policy to curb inflationary behaviour. Meanwhile, fiscal concerns grow as the BoE's quantitative tightening programme will cost the UK Treasury billions. Despite these challenges, hiring across more sectors has picked up, reflecting some resilience in the economy... Stocks featured: Bytes Technology Group, Close Brothers Group and Wizz Air To find out more about the investment management services offered by Walker Crips, please visit our website: https://www.walkercrips.co.uk/ This podcast is intended to be Walker Crips Investment Management’s own commentary on markets. It is not investment research and should not be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy, sell or trade in any of the investments, sectors or asset classes mentioned. The value of any investment and the income arising from it is not guaranteed and can fall as well as rise, so that you may not get back the amount you originally invested. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Movements in exchange rates can have an adverse effect on the value, price or income of any non-sterling denominated investment. Nothing in this podcast constitutes advice to undertake a transaction, and if you require professional advice you should contact your financial adviser or your usual contact at Walker Crips. Walker Crips Investment Management Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN: 226344) and is a member of the London Stock Exchange. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.