🇮🇩 Indonesia’s central bank is expected to raise interest rates this week as pressure on the rupiah continues to grow amid global economic uncertainty.
According to a Reuters poll, a slim majority of economists expect Bank Indonesia to increase its benchmark seven-day reverse repurchase rate by 25 basis points to 5.00% during the May 20 policy meeting.
The move comes after the rupiah weakened nearly 5% since late February, despite repeated currency market interventions by the central bank. Analysts say concerns over investor confidence, global geopolitical tensions, and capital outflows are putting increasing pressure on Indonesia’s financial markets.
Key points:
• Economists expect rates to rise from 4.75% to 5.00%
• The rupiah recently hit a record low against the US dollar
• Inflation remains relatively controlled at 2.42%, still within Bank Indonesia’s target range
• Some analysts believe this could mark the beginning of a broader tightening cycle
However, economists remain divided, with nearly half expecting the central bank to keep rates unchanged and continue relying on foreign exchange intervention instead.
Markets are closely watching the decision as Indonesia balances currency stability with the need to support economic growth.
