The European Central Bank (ECB) has decided to keep interest rates unchanged, maintaining the deposit facility rate at 2.25%. This decision aligns with market expectations following the ECB's first rate hike in nearly three years last month. Investors anticipate potential rate increases in the coming months as the ECB aims to address inflationary pressures exacerbated by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The ongoing conflict in the Strait of Hormuz has pushed global oil prices close to $100 per barrel, heightening concerns over war-induced inflation.