Christine Lagarde Unveils Early Exit Strategy Ahead of French Presidential Elections

European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde is reportedly planning to step down ahead of the French presidential election next year, according to the Financial Times. The move aims to allow current French President Emmanuel Macron an opportunity to exert influence over the selection of her successor.

Though her term officially concludes in October 2027, concerns about a possible far-right presidency in France have added urgency to the situation. Lagarde is looking for both Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to play influential roles in selecting the new head of Europe's key financial institution.

No formal decision has been made, as confirmed by an ECB spokesperson. The report comes just a week after Bank of France Governor Francois Villeroy de Galhau announced his early resignation, allowing Macron to appoint a new Bank Governor before the upcoming presidential elections.