In Egypt, interest rate decisions are taken by the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE). The Central Bank of Egypt official interest rate is the overnight deposit rate. The CBE is committed to achieving, over the medium term, low rates of inflation which it believes are essential for maintaining confidence and for sustaining high rates of investment and economic growth.
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The Central Bank of Egypt slashed key interest rates by another 100 bps to 19% on February 12, 2026, bringing borrowing costs to the lowest level since July 2023, amid slowing inflation and a strengthening currency. The second consecutive rate cut was widely expected, with most analysts anticipating a 100-basis-point reduction. The latest data showed annual urban inflation eased to a four-month low of 11.9% in January 2026 from 12.3% in the month earlier; while core inflation decelerated for the second month to a five-month low of 11.2%. Egypt’s pound has appreciated around 2% so far this year and is currently trading at 46.8 per US dollar, its highest level since May 2024. The discount rate was also cut to 19.5%. In addition, the CBE Board of Directors reduced the required reserve ratio (RRR) for commercial banks from 18% to 16%.