France

Split EU regulators weakened by dubious short ban

12 Aug 2011

Without the cover of European unanimity, countries that imposed short-selling curbs have made it look like they have something real to worry about. Bank shares are still gyrating - hardly evidence of a more stable market. Watchdogs risk suffering a hit to credibility.

France needs resolve to avoid losing triple-A

11 Aug 2011

Debt and the deficit are high, regardless of the cost of euro zone bailouts. France has a tough plan. But extra measures, like reforming local government and removing VAT exemptions, are needed. Regrettably, as in the U.S., there are political obstacles and an election looms.

Central banks at the limits

10 Aug 2011

QE or not QE? Fears of renewed global recession come as central bankers seem short of options. Money printing carries big risks, and failed currency interventions add to the impression of impotence. The radical solutions are there. But they might be better kept locked away.

ECB’s bazooka has a limited shelf life

8 Aug 2011

The central bank’s decision to buy Italian and Spanish bonds has calmed investors’ nerves. But the ECB is only buying time until the euro zone governments’ bailout facility is ready to step in. And the repercussions of Friday’s U.S. ratings downgrade could limit future rescues.

SocGen back to earth with profit warning shocker

3 Aug 2011

The French bank has admitted it probably won’t make its optimistic 6 bln euro net profit target next year. This may reflect slowing revenue rather than its exposure to euro zone contagion. But with markets already jittery, the warning could hardly have come at a worse time.