BoE holds rates at 4.25% amid Middle East uncertainty

Decision follows data showing UK inflation remains stubbornly above target
US weighs risks of Iranian retaliation

Tehran could target US troops, disrupt oil supplies or carry out cyber attacks or terrorism, warn former Washington officials
UK rebuffs Thames Water creditor demands as administration looms

Bondholders’ rescue plan for utility hinges on waivers from regulations and fines, documents show
Swiss central bank cuts rates to zero

Surge in value of Swiss franc amid US-driven trade war and lagging inflation has complicated policymaking
Russia on brink of recession, says economy minister

Maxim Reshetnikov says persistent inflation and central bank’s hawkish policy contribute to slowdown
Putin’s investment forum fails to attract western companies

Even Russia’s allies send lower-ranking officials and executives to St Petersburg — except Indonesia’s president