ECB President Highlights Economic Challenges

In a recent statement, European Central Bank (ECB) President Christine Lagarde expressed concerns over the "exceptional uncertainty" clouding the economic outlook, primarily due to unclear U.S. tariffs. Despite signs of stabilization in the euro area's manufacturing sector and likely growth in the first quarter, Lagarde warned of potential consumer spending hesitations and weak investment.

Urgent Call for Euro Area Competitiveness

Lagarde emphasized the urgency for fiscal and structural policies to enhance the euro area's competitiveness, productivity, and resilience. Key measures include the completion of the savings and investment union and the swift establishment of a legislative framework for the potential introduction of a digital euro.