# Central banks hold rates amid inflation > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/central-banks-hold-rates-amid-inflation > Updated: 2026-08-07T01:02:52.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2. In July 2026, Nigeria’s central bank was expected to keep its Monetary Policy Rate at 26.5%, maintaining a high level after a series of aggressive hikes the previous year. The decision reflected persistent inflation and the need to monitor price pressures despite a sizable share of the public favoring a cut. By early August 2026, the Reserve Bank of Malawi also left its benchmark rate unchanged at 24.0% as inflation eased to 22.9% and was projected to fall further. Simultaneously, the Reserve Bank of India kept its repo rate steady at 5.25% amid lingering food and fuel price risks and external shocks. Both institutions cited a cautious approach, balancing inflation containment with support for modest growth. Together, these snapshots illustrate a broader trend across emerging economies: central banks are maintaining elevated policy rates while inflation shows signs of moderation, opting for stability over rapid easing. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-07: Reserve Banks of Malawi and India Hold Policy Rates as Inflation Pressures Ease Malawi's central bank held its 24% policy rate as inflation eased, while India's RBI kept its repo at 5.25% amid food, fuel and external risks, both seeking to balance price stability and growth. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/reserve-banks-of-malawi-and-india-hold-policy-rates-as-inflation-pressures-ease ### 2026-07-18: Nigeria Central Bank likely to keep interest rate at 26.5% Nigeria's central bank is expected to keep the benchmark interest rate at 26.5% despite a majority of the public calling for a cut, as inflation remains a key concern. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nigeria-central-bank-likely-to-keep-interest-rate-at-265 --- Cite as: Central banks hold rates amid inflation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/central-banks-hold-rates-amid-inflation