RBI MPC Meet April 2026: Central Bank Likely to Hold Rates Amid Oil, Inflation Risks

• RBI's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) to meet April 6-8, led by Governor Sanjay Malhotra.
• Meeting takes place amidst heightened global uncertainty from West Asia conflict, rising crude oil prices, and weakening rupee.
• SBI Research expects RBI to maintain status quo on policy rates due to fluid global situation and inflation risks.
• Crude oil prices above $100 per barrel, rupee weakened past Rs 93 per dollar, and imported inflation at 5.4%.
• CPI inflation could remain above 4.5% for next three quarters; FY26 saw highest FII outflows since 1991.

Key Questions Answered

Will RBI raise interest rates later this year?

The RBI may raise interest rates later this year if energy-driven inflation persists and broadens.

How will oil prices impact Indian consumers?

Indian consumers face potential inflation and economic strain due to rising oil prices.

What if the West Asia conflict escalates further?

Further escalation of the West Asia conflict could lead to elevated oil prices, impact global chip and AI supply chains, and potentially shave 1% off India's GDP growth while raising inflati