FX.co ★ Hungary Holds Base Rate at 5.50% in September, Extending Monetary Policy Pause

Hungary’s central bank left its key interest rate unchanged at 5.50% in September 2026, maintaining the level set in August as policymakers opted for continuity in their monetary stance. According to data updated on 22 September 2026, the benchmark rate “has stopped and reached” 5.50% for a second consecutive month, signaling a pause in the current phase of policy adjustments.

The decision suggests that Hungarian authorities are keeping borrowing costs steady while assessing the impact of earlier moves on inflation, growth, and financial stability. By holding the rate at 5.50%, the central bank appears to be prioritizing a period of observation over immediate further tightening or easing, leaving investors and businesses to watch upcoming economic data for clues on the next direction of policy.