France picks crisis expert Moulin for top bank job

Emmanuel Macron is moving fast to fill a central banking vacancy before his time ends next year. The president wants Emmanuel Moulin, a longtime economic insider, to take over the Bank of France when the current chief steps down in June. Moulin, 57, has spent decades in French economic circles, from government treasury roles to advising leaders during the euro crisis. His background suggests stability rather than sudden change.Macron’s earlier decision to reshuffle his own staff cleared the way for Moulin’s appointment. But the move is raising eyebrows in politics. Opposition groups, especially the far right, argue Macron is stacking key posts with loyalists. Parliament must approve Moulin, and opponents could block him if enough lawmakers unite. France’s economic future is at stake, and this leadership change might test how divided the country’s politics truly are. Moulin isn’t a loud voice on interest rate policies like some central bankers, but his experience suggests he’ll stick to familiar strategies. His career includes stints at the World Bank, crisis talks with debt-heavy nations, and steering France’s finances during COVID-19. He’s no outsider—he’s the kind of official who prefers quiet coordination over bold reforms.