RBI MPC Holds Repo Rate at 5.25%: Signals Long Pause After December Cut

• RBI keeps repo rate unchanged at 5.25% in first policy post-Budget 2026, extending its pause.
• Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) maintains a neutral stance, shifting focus to liquidity management and growth support.
• Economists anticipate a prolonged pause in rate changes, with interventions primarily for liquidity.
• Experts note RBI's decision not to provide full FY27 GDP and inflation forecasts due to upcoming new data series.
• Market fundamentals suggest potential for higher rates ahead, with equity markets already reflecting this.