The Federal Open Market Committee of the United States Federal Reserve (the Fed) announced early today (Hong Kong time) after its two-day meeting that it had decided to keep the target range for the federal funds rate unchanged at 5.25-5.5 per cent.
Hong Kong Monetary Authority said that the policy decision this time is generally in line with market expectations. The Fed stressed that its future interest rate decisions would continue to be dependent on the latest economic data and the impact of continual rate hikes during the past year on the economy. It is therefore premature to conclude whether the US rate hike cycle has been completed, and the high interest rate environment is likely to last for some time.
The financial and monetary markets of Hong Kong continue to operate in a smooth and orderly manner. The Hong Kong dollar exchange rate remains stable, and the Hong Kong dollar interbank rates might remain high for some time. The public should carefully assess and manage the relevant risks when making property purchase, mortgage or other borrowing decisions. The HKMA will continue to closely monitor market developments and maintain monetary and financial stability.
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