The race to succeed Christine Lagarde as president of the ECB begins (lemonde.fr)

• Lagarde signals possible early departure
• Three primary candidates emerging for leadership
• French interest in Chief Economist vacancy noted

"Christine Lagarde has signaled potential plans to vacate the European Central Bank presidency ahead of her October 2027 term expiration. The announcement has triggered early maneuvering among potential successors. Simultaneously, French political interests appear focused on securing the influential role of Chief Economist. The leadership transition is a critical focal point for Eurozone monetary policy stability and institutional continuity in the coming years."