The European Central Bank (ECB) on Thursday raised its three key interest rates by 25 basis points, lifting the deposit facility rate to 2.50%, the main refinancing rate to 2.65%, and the marginal lending facility rate to 2.90%, effective September 16.
The unanimous decision, which ECB President Christine Lagarde called a “no brainer,” marks the ECB's second rate hike of 2026 following its June increase. The move comes directly in response to persistent inflation pressures generated by the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict, which has disrupted energy shipments through the Strait of Hormuz and sent oil prices (CLV26) back above $100 per barrel.
