The decision is in line with analysts’ expectations. The base rate, which equals the central bank two-week depo rate, has been unchanged since September 20, 2005 when it was reduced 25bp to 6%. The council reduced the key rate at each of its monthly rate-setting meetings between October 2004 and September 2005, from 11% to 6%. The base rate was 9.5% at the start of 2005.