Comments from Praet

  • Eurozone data point towards some moderation but remain consistent with a solid and broad-based approach
  • Once the governing council judges that the three criteria for sustained adjustment -- convergence, confidence and resilience -- have been met, net asset purchases will expire, in line with our guidance
  • Overall, an ample degree of monetary stimulus remains unnecessary
  • Negative surprise in core inflation is mainly attributable to a decrease in services inflation, which is likely to be related to developments in volatile items and also reflects the timing of Easter this year

I think the ECB will be vary reluctant to continue asset purchases beyond Sept or December but he's laying a bit of groundwork here for if it happens.