ECB interest rates are the set of policy rates the European Central Bank uses to steer the eurozone economy. They influence what commercial banks pay to borrow and what they offer on deposits and loans.

When these rates change, you may see shifts in mortgage costs, business lending, and the interest on your savings within weeks or months.

Key ECB rates

• Refinancing rate: Main weekly lending rate to banks

• Deposit facility rate: Overnight rate on bank reserves

• Marginal lending rate: Overnight emergency borrowing rate (ceiling of the corridor)

How ECB decisions reach you

Banks adjust savings and loan pricing based on funding costs tied to ECB rates and market expectations. Higher ECB rates often mean better returns on Savings Accounts but pricier new borrowing. Lower rates do the reverse.

If you want certainty when rates are moving, lock a return with a Term Deposit. For flexible cash, keep funds in Savings and track goals with Budgeting. Learn more in our ECB glossary entry.

Common questions

How often does the ECB change rates?

The Governing Council meets regularly; changes happen when inflation and growth outlooks require action, not on a fixed schedule every month.

Do ECB rates affect ZeroFX?

ECB policy influences the euro's value over time. Card spending abroad uses live exchange rates; see ZeroFX for how bunq handles foreign payments.