ECB holds interest rates at 2% as inflation rises

the ecb held rates at 2% on thursday, pausing after a string of cuts. policymakers said risks from the middle east energy shock have "intensified," with inflation ticking higher. the decision keeps the deposit rate at 2% for now. the bank's statement noted the conflict is pushing up energy costs, which complicates the outlook. markets had largely expected the hold after recent data showed price pressures re-emerging.