Geldpolitik: Jetzt live: Das sagt Präsidentin Lagarde zum Zinsentscheid und ihrem vorzeitigen Abschied von der EZB

Christine Lagarde's decision to step down from her role as the President of the European Central Bank (ECB) earlier than originally planned has not come as a surprise, given her previous hints about a premature departure. However, the timing of her announcement has drawn criticism. Lagarde had previously stated that she would not resign if there were dark clouds on the horizon, and that is precisely what is happening now.

Inflation within the Eurozone has reached its highest level in three years at 3.8%, and it is expected to soon surpass 4%. The ECB aims for an inflation rate of a steady 2%. Additionally, the significant yield increase in France has raised concerns about a potential new Euro crisis. Lagarde officially announced her resignation a few hours before the decision, which is set to take effect in February 2027, a quarter before her regular term ends.

At a press conference, Lagarde addressed the public for the first time about her departure. The meeting was filled with turbulence, as expected. The ECB, as planned, maintained a pause in the deposit rate, which remains at 2.5% for the Eurozone. The pace of balance sheet reduction also remained unchanged. However, the ECB explicitly took into account the increase in yields within the Eurozone in their statement.

It states that financing conditions have worsened since the last meeting of the ECB's council, which should dampen inflation and growth. The press conference, chaired by Lagarde, began at 14:45.