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Could France's debt crisis become a problem for Europe?

10:39

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October 18, 2026

Investors say France needs to get its spending and debt under control. Economic growth is sluggish and fear over French debt has sent the euro tumbling against the dollar.

France is under growing pressure to rein in its debt as borrowing costs climb and investors question whether the country can reduce its budget deficit. An aging population and rising pension spending are straining public finances, while proposed savings measures risk triggering social unrest. DW examines how France's debt burden, political uncertainty ahead of the presidential election and widening gaps in borrowing costs with Germany could affect confidence in the eurozone and raise concerns about broader economic stability in Europe.

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