Investing.com - The European Central Bank left interest rates on hold on Thursday, in what was a widely anticipated decision and made no changes to its monetary policy statement.
Recent economic data shows that growth in the euro area may have slowed since the start of the year amid concerns over the possible impact of trade tensions and the strong euro.
ECB officials, including President Mario Draghi, have indicated that the bank will move only cautiously towards winding up its asset purchase program, which is currently slated to end in September.
The ECB took markets by surprise in March when it unexpectedly dropped its pledge to expand its easing program if needed, indicating that it is on course to end its bond buying stimulus program before the end of the year.
Financial markets are no longer pricing in a first rate hike in mid-2019, with many investors now expecting the bank to wait until the second half of next year instead.
Investors were awaiting the bank’s post policy meeting press conference for its view of the euro area economy and the strength of the euro.