Mark Carney: Economic outlook 'clouded by Brexit'

Cuts inflation and growth forecast for Q2

clock • 1 min read

The Bank of England (BoE) has downgraded its predictions for inflation and economic growth in Q2, as the prospects for the UK economy remain "clouded by Brexit uncertainty".

In its May Inflation Report, the BoE revised its projected GDP growth expectations for the second quarter of 2018 down from the February estimate of 1.8% to 1.4%, while predicting inflation will fall to 2.4%, rather than 2.7% as previously forecast. The UK's Consumer Prices Index (CPI) fell yo 2.5% in March, the lowest rate in a year, and although the Office for National Statistics is yet to publish data for April, the Bank's Monetary Policy Committee voted 7-2 to keep interest rates at 0.5%, anticipating inflation would fall back to its target of 2% more quickly than anticipated. The...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Economics / Markets

OBR chair says leak could have come from 'external person'

OBR chair says leak could have come from 'external person'

OBR faces scrutiny after key document shared before Budget

Jen Frost
clock 27 November 2025 • 2 min read
Budget 25: Early OBR reports downgrades UK growth outlook as fiscal headroom doubles

Budget 25: Early OBR reports downgrades UK growth outlook as fiscal headroom doubles

OBR report released in 'unprecedented leak'

Patrick Brusnahan
clock 26 November 2025 • 1 min read
Budget 25: Council tax surcharge for £2m properties revealed

Budget 25: Council tax surcharge for £2m properties revealed

High Value Council Tax Surcharge in place from April 2028

Jen Frost
clock 26 November 2025 • 2 min read