European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde has indicated she could step down before her current mandate concludes in late 2027, potentially to pursue a candidacy in France's next presidential election.
The remarks, reported by Asharq Al-Awsat citing Reuters, mark a significant shift in the tone of her public comments regarding her tenure at the ECB.
Lagarde's refusal to rule out an early departure introduces a new layer of uncertainty for markets and policymakers who have relied on her steady hand through recent inflationary pressures and economic volatility.
The ECB's leadership stability is a key factor in the credibility of its monetary policy framework, and any premature change at the helm could complicate the central bank's communication strategy.
This development follows previous instances where Lagarde has faced speculation about her political ambitions in France.
While she has previously sought to reassure markets of her commitment to the ECB, the latest comments suggest that the possibility of a political run remains a live option.