STORY: European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde plans to leave her job early, ahead of next year's French presidential election, according to the Financial Times on Wednesday.
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The early departure would give outgoing French leader Emmanuel Macron an input into picking her successor.
Lagarde's term is due to end in October 2027, but some fear that the far right may win the French presidential race earlier in the year.
This would complicate the selection for the new leader of Europe's most important financial institution.
Citing a person familiar with the matter, the FT said Lagarde has not yet decided on the exact timing of her departure.
However she was keen on Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to be the key deciders in who succeeds her.
Macron cannot run again for a third term.
It comes only a week after the Bank of France governor said he would step down early allowing Macron to name a replacement before the election.
An ECB spokesperson said Lagarde has not taken any decision regarding the end of her term.
The response is a departure from earlier guidance which previously stated she was ''determined to complete her term''.
It will be up to all 21 leaders from the eurozone to pick her successor.
However, past results suggest any successful candidate must have both German and French support to clinch the role.
