[ECB Governing Council Member: Rate Hike Possible in April if Necessary, but No Commitment Can Be Made] Jin10 News, March 20 – ECB Governing Council member Makhlouf stated that if data indicates action is necessary, interest rates could be raised next month. However, he also noted that given the high level of uncertainty, no definitive commitment can be made at this time. He said he 'fully understands' market expectations for two rate hikes this year—one of the baseline scenarios for the ECB. That said, he emphasized that he and his colleagues will approach any measures with calmness and caution. 'If the facts show that we need to act, we will certainly act. But ultimately, it will depend on the evidence, and clearly, we are six weeks away from making another decision. In this particular shock event, six weeks—for us—is a very long time. Let’s see what happens in April.'