Diokno: Confident Philippines Can Cut Rate in 1Q 2024

The transcript discusses the potential for the Federal Reserve to maintain higher interest rates for longer, while the Philippines sees its CPI at a 16-month low. The Philippines aims to keep inflation within a 2-4% target by the end of the year, with a possible rate cut in early 2024. Despite slow economic growth, attributed to base effects and reduced election spending, the government plans to accelerate project implementation, aided by El Nino's longer dry season.

What is the current inflation target range for the Philippines?

• 3 to 5%

• 1 to 3%

• 4 to 6%

• 2 to 4%

By when does the Philippines expect to reach the lower end of its inflation target?

• Second quarter of this year

• Second quarter of next year

• First quarter of next year

• Fourth quarter of this year

When is the Philippines likely to consider a policy rate cut?

• By the end of this year

• By the first quarter of next year

• By the second quarter of next year

• By the third quarter of next year

What is one reason given for the slow economic growth in the Philippines?

• Election spending last year

• Global economic downturn

• High inflation rates

• Increased government spending

What natural phenomenon is expected to aid in speeding up project implementation?

• Monsoon season

• La Niña

• Typhoon season

• El Niño