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Euro zone inflation stabilized at 2% in December, matching economists’ expectations and aligning with the European Central Bank’s (ECB) target, according to flash data from Eurostat. This marks a slight cooling from November’s 2.1% rate, reflecting steady price growth across the region.

Core inflation and services moderate

Core inflation, which excludes volatile energy, food, alcohol, and tobacco prices, slowed to 2.3% from 2.4% in November. Services inflation, a key driver of consumer costs, eased to 3.4% from 3.5% the previous month. These moderations indicate that underlying price pressures remain contained despite past spikes in energy and commodity costs.

ECB’s cautious approach

The ECB maintained its key deposit facility rate at 2% for the fourth consecutive month, keeping it well below the 2024 peak of 4%. Officials have emphasized a data-driven approach, signaling that while the easing cycle is approaching its end, decisions will remain flexible depending on inflation trends and economic developments.

Market responses were muted, with the euro and the Stoxx 600 index largely unchanged following the release. Analysts note that the return of inflation to the ECB’s 2% target could provide scope for future rate cuts, potentially supporting growth and equity markets in 2026.

“The stability in inflation gives the ECB more flexibility to ease rates without risking a spike in prices,” said Michael Field, chief equity strategist at Morningstar. “Central bankers can now focus on stimulating growth while keeping inflation in check, which is a positive for both investors and consumers.”

Outlook for 2026

With inflation hovering around the 2% mark for most of 2025, economists expect the ECB to maintain a cautious but accommodative stance. Further rate adjustments are likely to be gradual, aimed at supporting economic activity while preventing renewed upward pressure on prices.

This trend suggests that the euro zone may see modest monetary easing in the months ahead, potentially boosting investment and consumption across the region.