France wants to scrap agreement allowing Algerian officials to enter the country without a visa
In a further escalation of tensions between France and Algeria, French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin announced in an interview with
Egypt's inflation dropped to its lowest in two years, potentially paving the way for the first interest-rate cut since 2020, Bloomberg reports.
Annual consumer prices in urban areas rose 24.1% in December, down from 25.5% in November, according to CAPMAS. This marks the second month of slowing inflation, with the monthly rate easing to 0.2%. Food and beverage prices, the largest inflation component, rose 20.3% annually but dropped 1.5% monthly.
Despite elevated inflation, signs indicate that the worst economic pressures may have passed. Egypt, grappling with a two-year crisis, secured a $57 billion global bailout and reached a deal with the IMF to cut state spending. The IMF agreement may unlock more funds from Cairo's $8 billion loan.
The central bank expects inflation to slow further in 2025 due to tight monetary policies. While an interest-rate cut is anticipated, it may not occur until late Q1 2025. The next policy meeting is scheduled for Feb. 20.
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