European Central Bank policy makers are sticking to the assumption that their bond-buying program will be wound down over about three months rather than brought to a sudden halt, according to euro-area officials familiar with the matter.
Even the more-hawkish members of the Governing Council, who are pushing for policy language that would signal the end of crisis-era stimulus measures, endorse a gradual slowing of asset purchases after the latest extension concludes in September, the officials said, citing informal discussions. They asked not to be identified as the deliberations are confidential, and noted that no decision has been taken.
