The decision is expected to come on Wednesday and, although most analysts expect the figure to be around $500m, the Guardian speculates it could be double that amount.

Coming on top of the $1.7trn of QE already injected into the economy, the decision could boost stock markets and set the tone for other central banks ahead of their own meetings this week.

However, the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee, which will make its decision on Thursday, is expected to delay any additional stimulus until the New Year.

Directors take pay cuts

Almost half of directors at unlisted companies have had a pay cut or pay freeze this year, according to a new survey.

The report by the Institute of Directors (IoD) showed 46% saw no increase in their pay packet, the Telegraph reports.

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Meanwhile, the remaining 54% received an average pay rise of 2.5%, while 23% of the 1,500 directors surveyed had their bonuses cancelled or postponed.

Miles Templeman, director general of the IoD, said: “This survey kills the idea that company directors are beginning to enjoy big pay rises at the very moment a pay freeze takes effect in the public sector.”

Deloitte predicts slow economic recovery

Economic growth is expected to slow down over the next few years, with the risk of a double dip still looming, according to a new report.

Deloitte’s latest Economic Review suggests the economy will grow by 1.5% this year and 1% next year, City AM reports.

Retailers are expected to be hit particularly hard as a combination of tax rises, public sector pay freezes and job cuts squeezes household income.

Roger Bootle, economic adviser at Deloitte, said: “The economic recovery is set to remain sluggish at best.”

Demand for workers rises to year high

Demand for workers in the UK was at its highest level for almost a year in October, with the manufacturing and marketing sectors faring particularly well.

Reed’s Job Index rose three points to 107 last month, the highest figure since the index began at the end of last year, the Independent reports.

Collated from the firm’s internet jobs board, the index showed demand was up in every region and UK nation.

Martin Warnes, managing director of Reed, said: “The autumn has witnessed strong growth in the jobs market with demand up in diverse sectors such as banking, financial services, manufacturing, tourism and marketing.”