Organisation

European Central Bank

Central bank for the eurozone

Christine Lagarde to step down as ECB president in February, succession race begins

Former Dutch and Spanish central bank chiefs Klaas Knot and Pablo Hernández de Cos emerge as frontrunners to lead the European Central Bank

European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde has formally announced she will step down on 7 February 2027, nearly nine months before her eight-year term expires, triggering an immediate succession process and giving EU leaders time to choose a successor well before next spring's French presidential election.

29 Oct 2026

Crypto

ECB President Lagarde Says Digital Euro Imminent, Euro Area Economy Resilient

European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde has described the euro-area economy as resilient and announced that the launch of a digital euro is imminent. Speaking on the economic outlook, Lagarde noted that September's 3.8% inflation rate largely reflects high energy costs, which the ECB expects to ease next year, though a measured policy response remains appropriate. Lagarde stated that the digital euro "will further stimulate innovation and competition in retail payments."

12 days ago