In June 2024, the European Central Bank (ECB) cut its benchmark deposit rate for the first time in almost five years, to 3.75%. Another rate cut followed in September, leaving the main deposit rate at 3.50%. Then, in October, the ECB announced a further reduction, to 3.25%.
Read on to discover if and when interest rates are likely to increase or decrease again, and what this could mean for savings accounts.
Inflation in Ireland is 0.7%, as of September
The ECB has announced back-to-back interest rate cuts
High interest rates may not be around for much longer
Updated: 22.10.2024
At its most recent meeting on 17 October 2024, the Governing Council of the ECB decided to lower the deposit facility rate by 25 basis points, to 3.25%. The interest rates on the main refinancing operations and the marginal lending facility were lowered to 3.40% and 3.65% respectively.
These rates are used as a reference point by Irish banks when setting their own interest rates on loans and deposits.
The next ECB rate announcement will be on 12 December 2024.
The annual inflation rate in Ireland dropped to 0.7% in September, down from 1.7% in the previous month.
The ECB has cut interest rates three times this year. So, what does this mean for Irish savers?
While this will drive down mortgage rates, it will also impact rates for savers. Time could be running out to take advantage of strong rate offerings, and now might be the ideal time to lock your money away.
Following 10 consecutive rate hikes that began in July 2022, the ECB lowered its record-high deposit rate by 25 basis points in June 2024. It was cut again in September and October, and currently stands at 3.25%.
According to figures from the Central Bank of Ireland, the average interest rate on new Irish mortgage agreements was 4.11% at the end of August, unchanged from May.
It looks as though interest rates in Ireland will decrease, following the recent ECB rate cuts, but this is dependent on the wider economy, and what happens in the eurozone.
Experts are predicting another cut in December, as inflation appears to be under control. However, if inflation rebounds, the ECB may be more cautious when it comes to rate easing.
Put simply, ECB rate cuts mean that high savings interest rates may not be around for much longer.
Here are some tips for savers in Ireland in the current interest rate environment:
So, what's the best savings account for you? This will depend on various factors, for example the amount you have to invest, and whether you’ll need access to your money. If you can afford to lock your money away for a set period, you might opt for a fixed interest rate product. This type of savings account typically offers the most competitive rates, and is ideal for long term savings goals.
Public Expenditure Minister, Paschal Donohoe, has said:
“Looking to put money in other parts of Europe, and other banks elsewhere in Europe, is not an unpatriotic act. It’s the way the single market functions.”
Regardless of what happens to the interest rate in Ireland, there’s never a bad time to save. Whether it’s to take advantage of competitive interest rates whilst they're still around, or to protect yourself and your family from unforeseen financial expenses, opening a savings account will give you more for your money.
To find the best savings account for you, register for a free Raisin Account today and compare interest rates from banks across Europe.