Lagarde, who is expected to step down early as European Central Bank president ahead of French elections, was widely tipped to take over as the next permanent chair of the WEF, whose founder Klaus Schwab abruptly resigned last year. She is currently a member of its governing board.

Speculation is mounting over the European Central Bank's leadership after a report suggested Christine Lagarde may step down early. The possibility is already stirring debate about politics and central bank independence.

Christine Lagarde is poised to quit as European Central Bank (ECB) boss early over fears Marine Le Pen could pick her successor if she wins the French election.

By Francesco Canepa and Balazs Koranyi FRANKFURT, Feb 19 (Reuters) - European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde has told colleagues she remains focussed on her job and she would tell them first if she was about to step down,

Reports indicate Christine Lagarde could step down as ECB President before her mandate expires in October 2027. The ECB denied the claims in a response to Euronews. View on euronews

While the European Central Bank moved to quell speculation the president will quit, an early exit would provide the French leader with an opportunity.

FRANKFURT, Feb 19 (Reuters) - European ⁠Central ⁠Bank President Christine ⁠Lagarde has told colleagues she ​remains focussed on her job and she would ‌tell them first ‌if she was about to ⁠step ⁠down, four sources told Reuters, in a private ​message the recipients took to mean she was not about to resign.

European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde said creating incentives for investments in Europe is a better approach to prevent capital outflows to other regions than imposing taxes.

European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde reassured colleagues of her commitment to her role following rumors of her possible early resignation, which could influence France's presidential election.