Jackie Bowie on BBC News: Opening Bell and rate outlook
Summary
Stronger UK growth and rising geopolitical risk in focus on BBC News, with Jackie Bowie, Managing Director and Head of EMEA at Chatham Financial.
BBC News - April 16, 2026
UK growth and shifting conditions
UK growth came in stronger than expected, led by services, with support from manufacturing and construction.
However, Bowie emphasized that the data reflects past conditions, not the current environment.
“These are rear-view mirror numbers. We’re now in a very different economic scenario.”
– Jackie Bowie, Chatham Financial
Energy exposure and inflation pressure
As a net energy importer, the UK is highly exposed to rising oil and commodity prices, which will increase costs across the economy.
“These price increases will feed through to businesses and households.”
– Jackie Bowie, Chatham Financial
Forecasts are already pointing to a more challenging outlook with limited near-term support.
Rates and what to watch
Expectations for aggressive Bank of England rate hikes have eased slightly, softening some downside risks.
“That path is still priced in, but expectations have tapered.”
– Jackie Bowie, Chatham Financial
Focus now shifts to the Bank of England’s April 30 meeting for clearer direction.
Navigating uncertainty
As risks build, the priority shifts from interpreting past data to preparing for forward-looking volatility, particularly around energy and inflation.
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