The UK’s inflation rate stood at 4% in the year to January 2024, unchanged from December 2023, and slightly better than market expectations of an increase to 4.2%. This steadiness in inflation rates, coupled with the Bank of England’s cautious stance on interest rates, underscores the complex dynamics at play in the UK economy. The core CPI, excluding volatile items such as energy, food, alcohol, and tobacco, rose by 5.1% in the year to January 2024, compared with a figure of 5.2% recorded a month earlier.
In response to these economic conditions, the Bank of England has maintained the base interest rate at a 15-year peak of 5.25%, a decision that reverberates across the economic spectrum, from mortgages to savings and the broader housing market. The decision to keep interest rates unchanged for the fourth consecutive time follows a series of 14 rate hikes between December 2021 and August 2023, aimed at curbing the soaring cost of living which peaked at 11.1% in October 2022.
Approximately a third of UK households with mortgages are directly affected by these interest rate decisions, with those on tracker or variable mortgages seeing immediate payment increases in response to the base rate hikes. This has led to an average increase of about £33 a month for standard variable rate mortgage holders borrowing £200,000 over 25 years. As fixed-rate mortgage deals come to an end, many homeowners face the prospect of significantly higher payments, prompting a surge in remortgaging activities. Homeowners are advised to consider their options carefully, with many opting to lock in new rates up to six months in advance to mitigate against future rate increases.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported that the Consumer Prices Index including owner occupiers’ housing costs (CPIH) rose by 4.2% in the 12 months to January 2024, mirroring the rate from December 2023. This stability in inflation rates, despite the high base interest rate, highlights the ongoing challenges in managing the cost of living amidst fluctuating global economic conditions.
Notably, the largest upward contribution to the monthly change in both CPIH and CPI annual rates came from housing and household services, primarily due to higher gas and electricity charges. Conversely, the largest downward contribution stemmed from furniture and household goods, and food and non-alcoholic beverages, indicating a mixed impact on consumers.
With savings rates experiencing a significant rise since December 2021, savers have a unique opportunity to see real-term growth in their savings, providing a glimmer of hope amid the challenges posed by high interest rates. In this evolving economic environment, considering tax-efficient savings options such as Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) can be particularly advantageous. ISAs serve as a valuable tool for both saving and investing without the burden of tax on the returns. For those interested in maximizing their savings potential through ISAs, further details can be found here.
As the UK navigates through these economic uncertainties, the focus remains on balancing inflation control with growth stimulation. The steady inflation rate, despite the high-interest environment, suggests a cautious optimism among policymakers regarding the economy’s resilience. For consumers, the current economic climate underscores the importance of financial planning and adaptability. Those with mortgages, particularly those on variable or tracker rates, should stay informed about their options and consider the potential benefits of remortgaging or adjusting their financial strategies in light of the ongoing interest rate scenario.
As the Bank of England continues to monitor the economic indicators closely, the next interest rate decision, slated for 21 March 2024, will be highly anticipated for its implications on both the housing market and the broader economic outlook.
