RBI's repo rate sits at 5.50% after October hike, with December 4 decision due

The Reserve Bank of India's Monetary Policy Committee voted unanimously on October 7, 2026 to raise the policy repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.50 per cent, according to the RBI's own resolution. That is the starting level for the December test. The deciding source, the RBI, does not yet publish the December decision, so the figure this question turns on is not available. Reports from October 7 and 9 tied the hike to rising inflationary pressures and global uncertainties. One report from October 7 cited West Asia tensions and energy supply worries. These accounts are about a month old and describe the earlier decision, not current conditions. The case for another 25 basis point rise rests on that tightening stance and on reported inflation concerns. A November 4 report said the next review will be watched for signs that food supply pressures are easing, crude prices are stabilising and core inflation is responding to tighter financial conditions. Watch those inflation and crude readings before December 4. A clear easing in food and energy pressures would weaken the case for a second hike.