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TODAY IN 30 SECONDS
  1. SONIA Stakeholder Advisory Group Minutes - 24 March 2026
  2. Bank of England advisory group reviews public feedback on next banknote series
  3. Bank of England advisory group recommends 'Nature' theme for next UK banknote series

Central Banks 2

  • SONIA to Bank Rate wedge narrowed to less than 2bps in March
  • Volume remains robust in light of recent geopolitical tensions
  • Members noted orderly market functioning through recent turmoil
  • Public consultation received 43,000+ responses and 100,000+ votes, with Nature and Architecture/Landmarks leading themes
  • Focus groups to explore sentiment on top themes and potential design changes, including note orientation
  • Group to reconvene after focus groups to recommend theme to Governor for Series H banknotes

Other 1

  • Banknote Imagery Advisory Group (BIAG) recommends 'Nature' as theme for Series H banknotes, with 'Wildlife' as primary sub-theme
  • 'Nature' received 42% of public votes in July 2025 consultation, outperforming 'Architecture & Landmarks' (31%) and 'Notable Historic Figures' (27%)
  • BIAG cited inclusivity, emotional resonance, and security feature alignment as key reasons for selecting 'Nature' over alternatives
  • Focus groups highlighted concerns about regional equity and historical baggage for 'Architecture & Landmarks' theme
  • Decision now goes to Bank of England Governor for final approval