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Interest Rates Outlook

Markets are pricing in too many ECB rate hikes

Wednesday, 29 April 2026, written by Maarten Spek

The markets are anticipating several interest rate hikes by the ECB and the Bank of England, and this has put significant upward pressure on two- and five-year IRS rates. However, we no longer expect much further rise, and we believe short-term rates are more likely to fall than rise in the coming months…

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Previous reports

Peace in the Middle East doesn’t mean the risk of rising rates disappears

Wednesday, 15 April 2026

Investors appear convinced that the Strait of Hormuz will soon reopen fully to oil and gas tankers. Energy prices may then fall further, but that does not automatically mean that the risk of inflation has passed and that central banks can cut interest rates. In this report, we discuss the reasons for this and what it means for European and US interest rates.

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The Domino Effect of the Iran War on Interest Rate Markets

Wednesday, 01 April 2026

Expectations of a swift end to the war in Iran may put further downward pressure on interest rates in the short term, but beneath the surface, structural forces are paving the way for a new phase of rising rates. What does this mean for central bank policy and US and European long-term interest rates?

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Markets are pricing in too many ECB rate hikes

Wednesday, 18 March 2026

The war in the Middle East presents bond markets, central banks and investors with a new dilemma: is this a temporary energy shock, or the start of yet another period of persistent inflation?

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Hedging Interest Rates Risks

Rising or falling interest rates can significantly impact your current and future financing costs.

Through our sister company, ICC Consultants, many ECR clients already benefit from independent hedging advice that combines clear strategy with hands‑on execution support.

Whether you face a hedge obligation under your financing arrangements, or simply want stable and predictable cash flows to protect profit margins from volatile interest rates, it’s worth having a conversation with us.

When should you reach out?

  • If you currently rely on your bank alone for hedging, an independent advisor ensures that pricing, strategy, and execution truly work in your best interest.
  • If you already work with an advisor, consider inviting us to provide a competitive quotation — our services are typically more cost‑effective.

With ICC’s interest rate specialists and real‑time pricing systems on your side, you gain full transparency, lower costs, and the confidence that nothing is overlooked and every decision is the best possible.

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