Finance

UK's budget watchdog to publish one full forecast per year

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on December 8, 2025

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· Last updated: January 20, 2026

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UK's budget watchdog to publish one full forecast per year
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LONDON (Reuters) -Britain's Office for Budget Responsibility will carry out one full fiscal forecast a year instead of the current two, according to its outlook unexpectedly published on Wednesday

UK's Budget Watchdog to Publish Annual Forecast

LONDON (Reuters) -Britain's Office for Budget Responsibility will carry out one full fiscal forecast a year instead of the current two, according to its outlook unexpectedly published on Wednesday ahead of finance minister Rachel Reeves delivering her budget.

The OBR has so far published two assessments annually to accompany the government's spring and autumn fiscal statements. They provide detailed economic projections and whether the finance minister is on course to meet targets for the public finances.

The International Monetary Fund had recommended that the OBR assess the government's progress towards its fiscal rules only once a year to reduce speculation about what measures might be needed to stay on track.

Reeves has previously said that the OBR's two full forecasts a year made it harder to have a single major fiscal event.

(Reporting by Muvija M, writing by Sam Tabahriti; editing by William James)

Key Takeaways

  • The OBR will now publish one full fiscal forecast annually.
  • Previously, two forecasts were issued each year.
  • The change aligns with IMF recommendations.
  • Finance Minister Rachel Reeves supports the move.
  • The decision aims to reduce fiscal speculation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the role of the International Monetary Fund?
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is an international organization that provides financial assistance, advice, and economic analysis to member countries to promote global economic stability.

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