Serbia Central Bank Keeps Key Rate at 5.75%

The National Bank of Serbia held its benchmark interest rate steady at 5.75% at its February 2026 meeting, alongside the deposit rate (4.5%) and the credit facility rate (7%). Inflation continued to move slightly below the central bank’s target during the final quarter of 2025, falling to 2.7% in December, and is expected to stay within the target range of 3% (±1.5%) through the end of 2026 and over the medium term. The Board anticipates economic growth to accelerate this year and next, supported by both household consumption and investment in fixed assets. Net exports are also expected to contribute positively in 2027, buoyed by the hosting of the specialized exhibition “Expo.” The central bank stressed that a cautious monetary policy stance remains necessary amid global uncertainty, stemming from trade and geopolitical tensions, while reaffirming its commitment to a data-driven and flexible approach aimed at maintaining financial stability and supporting growth.

The National Bank of Serbia left its benchmark interest rate unchanged at 5.75% at its first policy meeting of 2026, with deposit and lending facility rates also steady at 4.5% and 7.0%, respectively. Inflation stabilized slightly below the central target of 3% (±1.5%) by the end of 2025 and is expected to remain near the target in the short term. The domestic economy grew moderately last year, with real GDP rising 2%, supported by robust activity in the services and industrial sectors, particularly automotive. Looking ahead, GDP growth is expected to accelerate in 2026, underpinned by consumption, fixed asset investment, and the “Leap into the Future – Serbia Expo 2027” initiative. The central bank will maintain a cautious monetary policy amid global uncertainty and geopolitical tensions, aiming to support growth, exports, and financial stability.

The National Bank of Serbia left its benchmark interest rate unchanged at 5.75% at its final meeting of 2025. Deposit and credit facility rates were also held steady at 4.5% and 7.0%, respectively. After inflation eased to 2.9% in September and 2.8% in October, the Board expects it to hover around the 3% target through March next year and even by the end of 2026. GDP growth in Q3 remained at 2%, in line with the central bank’s expectations, driven mainly by the services and industrial sectors, while construction activity continued to contract. The Board projects economic growth of 2.1% for 2025, accelerating to 3.5% in 2026, supported by household consumption and fixed investment. The central bank emphasized that a cautious approach to monetary policy remains necessary amid global uncertainty, trade tensions, and geopolitical risks, while reaffirming its commitment to a data-driven and flexible approach aimed at maintaining financial stability and supporting growth.