Slovak c.bank: Dec EU-norm CPI below expectation

    Slovak EU-norm inflation came 
in below central bank (NBS) expectations in December, and its 
dynamics should slow significantly this month due to base 
effects, the NBS said on Wednesday. 
    Statistics Office data released earlier on Wednesday showed 
consumer prices held steady at 3.7 percent on the year in 
December and rose 0.1 percent month-on-month. 
    The NBS has expected end-year inflation of 4.1 percent, 
according to its October quarterly prediction. 
    In January, natural gas and water prices should fall on a 
monthly basis, while electricity prices should stay flat, the 
bank said in a statement. Prices of food and services should 
keep rising, while fuel should be cheaper, the NBS said. 
  

[BRATISLAVA/Reuters/Finance.cz]