US Labor Market Expectations Improve Slightly; Short-Term Inflation Expectations Decline

ECB’S LAGARDE: WE REMAIN FOCUSED ON PRICE STABILITY - WE EXPECT INFLATION TO STABILISE SUSTAINABLY AT OUR 2% MEDIUM TERM TARGET. - IN THE CURRENT UNCERTAIN ENVIRONMENT, OUR DATA-DEPENDENT, MEETING-BY-MEETING APPROACH TO MONETARY POLICY SERVES US WELL ... European Parliament plenary debate on the ECB Annual Report It is a pleasure to be back in this plenary chamber for the debate on your draft resolution on the ECB’s Annual Report. Today’s debate is a key pillar of our accountability to you, the elected representatives of the European Union. Your resolution underscores that the ECB’s independence is essential for us to deliver on our mandate of price stability. At a time when central bank independence is being challenged in parts of the world, your clear support sends an important signal. But, as you also emphasise, independence does not mean isolation. The ECB does not stand apart from democratic scrutiny. Our independence goes hand in hand with our accountability to this Parliament. Regular hearings, written exchanges and our Annual Report all reflect this commitment. Our dialogue today continues this process of explanation and scrutiny. In my remarks, I will address issues you raise in your resolution, with a particular focus on strengthening Europe’s resilience and competitiveness in a challenging global environment.