Investing.com -- European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde is stepping into France's presidential election debate with an appearance at a political gathering in Normandy, adding to speculation that she could leave the ECB before her term ends.
Lagarde is due to speak at the Fête de la Pomme, an annual event hosted by Normandy regional president Hervé Morin that has become a gathering place for French political figures and presidential hopefuls.
Her appearance comes days after the ECB delivered a second interest-rate increase aimed at containing inflation pressures linked to the Iran war.
Lagarde has previously described the French presidency as a "terrible job," but she has also said she wants a European voice represented in the election campaign and has declined to rule out leaving the ECB before her mandate expires in October 2027.
Speculation over her future has intensified ahead of the publication of her memoir, "Lady First," in January. The World Economic Forum has also been discussed as a possible destination.