All eyes are now on the Reserve Bank of India as its Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) prepares to announce its latest policy decision, a move that could directly affect loan EMIs, savings returns and market sentiment.
Here’s a simple, clear guide to what’s happening, when to watch, and why it matters.
Read More: RBI Monetary Policy 2026 Live
RBI MPC meeting time: When will the policy decision be announced?
The RBI’s six-member Monetary Policy Committee began its three-day review on February 4 and will wrap up discussions on February 6, 2026.
The key announcements, including the all-important repo rate decision, will be made at 10:00 a.m. IST on Friday. RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra is expected to address the media around midday, outlining the central bank’s outlook on inflation, growth and liquidity.
The briefing will be streamed live on the RBI’s official website and social media platforms, including YouTube and X, and will also be available on our Economic Times page.
Why this RBI MPC meeting is under sharp focus
This particular meeting carries extra weight.
It comes shortly after the Union Budget 2026 and a major India–US trade agreement, two developments that could shape economic momentum in the months ahead. With inflation risks, global volatility and domestic growth all in play, the RBI’s tone will be watched just as closely as the rate decision itself.
Borrowers, investors and businesses are all waiting for signals about where interest rates might head next.
Repo rate outlook: What are analysts expecting?
Most economists expect the central bank to keep the repo rate unchanged.
After multiple reductions over the past year, analysts believe the RBI may prefer to pause and assess the impact of earlier easing steps. The policy repo rate currently stands at 5.25%, and a “wait-and-watch” stance is seen as the most likely outcome.
Global uncertainties, currency fluctuations and firm government bond yields are also factors that could make the central bank cautious about fresh cuts right now.
What does the repo rate mean for you?
The repo rate is the rate at which the RBI lends money to commercial banks. It acts as a key tool for controlling inflation and supporting growth.
When the rate falls, loans generally become cheaper and EMIs may reduce. When rates are held or raised, borrowing costs tend to stay higher.
So, even a “no change” decision can send a strong signal that the RBI believes current economic conditions are stable enough for now.
A quick recap of recent MPC decisions
Looking back at previous meetings gives some context to what might happen next.
In December 2025, the MPC cut the repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.25% while maintaining a neutral stance. Over the course of 2025, the central bank lowered rates by a total of 100 basis points to support growth as inflation pressures eased.
These moves were aimed at boosting consumption and investment without risking price stability.
Key things to watch after the announcement
When the decision is released at 10 a.m., markets will look beyond just the rate number. Investors will focus on:
– The repo rate outcome
– The policy stance (neutral or accommodative)
– Inflation estimates
– Growth projections
– Comments on liquidity and global risks
The RBI’s language could influence everything from home loan EMIs and deposit rates to stock markets and the rupee in the weeks ahead.
In short, even a steady decision could have big implications, which is why this February MPC meeting is one you don’t want to miss.
Inputs from agencies
Here’s a simple, clear guide to what’s happening, when to watch, and why it matters.
Read More: RBI Monetary Policy 2026 Live
RBI MPC meeting time: When will the policy decision be announced?
The RBI’s six-member Monetary Policy Committee began its three-day review on February 4 and will wrap up discussions on February 6, 2026.The key announcements, including the all-important repo rate decision, will be made at 10:00 a.m. IST on Friday. RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra is expected to address the media around midday, outlining the central bank’s outlook on inflation, growth and liquidity.
The briefing will be streamed live on the RBI’s official website and social media platforms, including YouTube and X, and will also be available on our Economic Times page.
Why this RBI MPC meeting is under sharp focus
This particular meeting carries extra weight.It comes shortly after the Union Budget 2026 and a major India–US trade agreement, two developments that could shape economic momentum in the months ahead. With inflation risks, global volatility and domestic growth all in play, the RBI’s tone will be watched just as closely as the rate decision itself.
Borrowers, investors and businesses are all waiting for signals about where interest rates might head next.
Repo rate outlook: What are analysts expecting?
Most economists expect the central bank to keep the repo rate unchanged.After multiple reductions over the past year, analysts believe the RBI may prefer to pause and assess the impact of earlier easing steps. The policy repo rate currently stands at 5.25%, and a “wait-and-watch” stance is seen as the most likely outcome.
Global uncertainties, currency fluctuations and firm government bond yields are also factors that could make the central bank cautious about fresh cuts right now.
What does the repo rate mean for you?
The repo rate is the rate at which the RBI lends money to commercial banks. It acts as a key tool for controlling inflation and supporting growth.When the rate falls, loans generally become cheaper and EMIs may reduce. When rates are held or raised, borrowing costs tend to stay higher.
So, even a “no change” decision can send a strong signal that the RBI believes current economic conditions are stable enough for now.
A quick recap of recent MPC decisions
Looking back at previous meetings gives some context to what might happen next.In December 2025, the MPC cut the repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.25% while maintaining a neutral stance. Over the course of 2025, the central bank lowered rates by a total of 100 basis points to support growth as inflation pressures eased.
These moves were aimed at boosting consumption and investment without risking price stability.
Key things to watch after the announcement
When the decision is released at 10 a.m., markets will look beyond just the rate number. Investors will focus on:– The repo rate outcome
– The policy stance (neutral or accommodative)
– Inflation estimates
– Growth projections
– Comments on liquidity and global risks
The RBI’s language could influence everything from home loan EMIs and deposit rates to stock markets and the rupee in the weeks ahead.
In short, even a steady decision could have big implications, which is why this February MPC meeting is one you don’t want to miss.
Inputs from agencies
