Christine Lagarde, President of the ECB, in an interview with Sandra Maischberger | Video der Sendung vom 26.05.2025 22:35 Uhr (26.5.2025) mit Untertitel

The President of the European Central Bank, Christine Lagarde, talks to Sandra Maischberger about the plans for a digital euro, Germany’s economic problems, and her personal experiences as a woman in male-dominated domains. She explains her mission as President of the ECB: price stability and the preservation of the eurozone. She talks about her hopes for the digital euro, which is to be tested in a pilot phase starting in October – if the European Parliament gives its approval. About the German economy, she says that Germany is stagnating because the old business model of cheap energy and exports is no longer working. With regard to the eurozone and its international competitive position, she explains: “The Euro Area is a strong economic zone. We too often focus on our weaknesses. (…) If we focus on our labour market, we have the record low historical unemployment number.” When it comes to Trump and tariffs, Lagarde refutes the accusation that the EU is directed against the USA – on the contrary: America has always supported Europe. Nevertheless, Europe must be self-confident and not just react. In a discussion about quotas for women and diversity, Lagarde is combative: regression in corporate policy is disappointing – diversity remains necessary.