Switzerland's central bank decided Thursday to leave key lending rates unchanged at near-zero levels, according to dpa. The three-month target range for those rates will stay at a level between 0 and 0.75 per cent, the Swiss National Bank (SNB) said, adding that it would aim for the 0.25 per cent rate. The bank also said it was monitoring the Swiss franc, which has been strengthening against the euro, hitting a new record this week. "If a deflation threat emerges, the SNB would take the measures necessary to ensure price stability," the bank said. Over the summer, the SNB intervened on several occasions, currency traders believe, in order to prevent an excessive rise in the value of the franc, which is often considered a safe haven for investors. The SNB noted that its monetary policy was being conducted "in an environment of heightened uncertainty."
