Euro slumps to two-decade low as recession fears bite

14 Sept 04:13 Key points summarised by AI

The euro plunged to a two-decade low against the dollar, driven by surging European natural gas prices and escalating fears of a regional recession.
Rising energy costs are intensifying inflationary pressures across Europe, significantly increasing the likelihood of an economic downturn and complicating the European Central Bank's policy response.
The U.S. dollar surged broadly, pushing other major currencies like the Japanese yen and Australian dollar lower, and sparking concerns about 'reverse currency wars' as central banks hike rates to defend their currencies.

Macron condemns those who 'sought to bring down the Republic' after rioting mars nationwide protests

Today 12:56 Key points summarised by AI

President Macron condemned widespread rioting and looting during nationwide protests, blaming far-left activists and criminals for the "unrestrained violence" and vowing accountability for those who "sought to bring down the Republic."
Over 2,400 arrests were made as protests against rising living costs and poor school conditions escalated, causing extensive damage to public buildings and businesses in cities like Paris, Limoges (where City Hall burned), Marseille, and Lyon.
The unrest, which organizers hoped would revive the "yellow vest" movement, saw political leaders trade blame, with Macron instructing prefects to protect public buildings and potentially ban future protests to prevent further disorder.