Markets expect a rate increase

Another hike in interest rates by the central bank is within reach, analysts claim. The Monetary Council is only scheduled to review interest rates on its July 24 session, but a non-rate-setting session will be held today and analysts expect the Council to put the issue on the agenda. Expectations for a rise are particularly strong in foreign exchange and treasury bond markets. Hungary''s forint slipped to the weaker side of its fluctuation band against the euro last week and its present rate already threatens with a rise in inflation. VGO