[Analyst: Bank of England Rate Hike Probability Decreases but Not Ruled Out] Jin10 Data, April 15 – Peel Hunt Senior Economist Kallum Pickering stated that despite inflation concerns, the likelihood of the Bank of England raising interest rates in 2026 has decreased. The company expects the Middle East conflict to be resolved soon, and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz could enable the Bank of England to cut rates this year. However, Pickering noted that if the Middle East conflict persists, 'the Bank of England may be forced to take drastic measures to boost confidence and stabilize inflation expectations.' According to data from the London Stock Exchange Group, investors have fully priced in the possibility of a 25 basis point rate hike by the Bank of England in 2026, with a 40% probability of a second rate hike by the end of the year.