ECB’s Rehn says data show first signs of stagflationary shock

European Central Bank member Olli Rehn indicated that data suggests the onset of stagflation due to the Iran war and rising energy prices. He noted slight growth in the euro area and inflation at 3%. While the current shock is less severe than in 2022, it deviates from the ECB's outlook. Policymakers are cautious about interest rate hikes, awaiting more data on the conflict's impact. Eurozone growth is expected to soften, with France reporting a rise in unemployment to 8.1%. Investors anticipate a rate increase in June, but officials remain hesitant to confirm.