By Marco Hugo Barsotti MHB 
Welcome to am1575news, the bulletin of France24 and Radio Centrale Milano for Wednesday 19 August 2026 in podcasting, on the medium wave and on franciaoggi.com. In the editorial office in Nice Marco Hugo Barsotti, from Paris Rachel Costa.
News from France
Frank Beard, ZZ Top drummer, dies at 77
The longtime ZZ Top drummer, Frank Beard, has passed away at the age of 77, according to the statement posted on the band’s official website. The death occurred on Monday in a palliative care facility located on his ranch in Richmond, Texas, in the presence of family members; the cause of death was not disclosed.
The loss forced the cancellation of the concerts scheduled this week in Utah and Colorado, as indicated by the band’s statement. ZZ Top, founded in 1969, had already suffered the loss of bassist Dusty Hill in 2021, but had continued performing with bassist Elwood Francis.
Billy Gibbons, singer and co‑founder of ZZ Top, described Beard as “a great friend and collaborator” and “one of the most natural innovative drummers, a true son of Texas”. He added that his “characteristic backbeat” was essential for keeping the group at the top, and that the band will continue performing as the colleague wished.
Beard joined the lineup shortly after the first single “Salt Lick” and, despite his surname, was known as “The Man With No Beard” because he was the only band member not sporting the characteristic long beard. Tracks on which he left his mark include “La Grange”, “Tush” and “Cheap Sunglasses”. With ZZ Top he recorded 15 studio albums and four live albums, including the celebrated 1984 “Eliminator”, certified diamond by the RIAA with over ten million copies sold and Grammy‑nominated.
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004, ZZ Top continued their world tour, with dates in North America, Europe and South America. After Beard’s death, the group rescheduled the The Big One! Tour, planning two concerts at the Austin City Limits festival, one of the drummer’s favorite venues.
BBC, 18 August 2026
Fact Check by Gemma4.
Government apologies, third data leak… what emerged from the press conference on the tax authority cyber‑theft
The Minister of Action and Public Accounts, David Amiel, apologized on the morning of Tuesday 18 August, describing the data theft that struck the Directorate General of Public Finances (DGFiP) as “unbearable for citizens”. During the press briefing in Bercy, the Director General of the tax administration, Amélie Verdier, detailed the three intrusions suffered, while the Paris prosecution opened an investigation for fraudulent data extraction and association with criminals.
First breach – tax data of 350 000 taxpayers
At the end of June the group “ZeroBytes”, composed of two hackers, infiltrated the tax authority’s information system using an employee’s credentials. The flaw, closed immediately, was not detected in time and the DGFiP became aware of the theft only when the perpetrators published the claim on a clandestine forum. The attack compromised at least 678 000 records, including 350 000 taxpayers, with tax number, installments, reference income, address, phone, email and family data. The DGFiP began contacting the affected individuals to warn them of phishing and identity theft risks; Amiel requested that the users be welcomed “with the utmost respect”.
Second breach – cadastral data
On 13 August the same criminals claimed a new intrusion, this time on the Professional Cadastral Data Service (SPDC). Data of about two million people were stolen, namely 433 485 private individuals and 1 082 082 companies, linking land parcels to their respective owners.
Third breach – information on successions
Verdier confirmed an additional “third leak” concerning the public portal of vacant successions, which allows someone who has a claim on a deceased person to verify the existence of an heir. The volume of exposed data is significantly smaller than the previous breaches, but still sensitive. None of the three intrusions allowed access to taxpayers’ fiscal accounts nor enabled the theft of access codes.
Response measures
The DGFiP mobilized more than 100 cybersecurity experts among its 5 300 IT staff. Minister Amiel acknowledged the vulnerabilities of the systems and announced a multi‑phase action plan, which includes combating agent account compromise, strengthening cyber training, and adopting “strong authentication” for all accesses. By the end of the year USB tokens will be distributed to employees to strengthen credential security. Some immediate countermeasures include disabling access to specific applications, shutting down the internal mail portal for agents, and intensifying internal phishing‑simulation campaigns. Amiel also requested controlled tests with artificial intelligences to assess system resilience.
Source: franceinfo, 18 August 2026
Fact Check by Gemma4.
Rachel’s editorial – Apologies, USB tokens and other tax mysteries
I read you my editorial for today.
It’s curious how Minister Amiel, with the voice of someone who just discovered his refrigerator is empty, began the conference with an “we apologize”. Is it really an unfair blame if our digital heritage was stolen by a duo of hackers called ZeroBytes? Or perhaps the real mistake was overlooking that, in this era, an “apology” is more effective than a firewall?
The Directorate of Public Accounts waves its “100 cybersecurity jobs”, while counting 5 300 IT staff in the organization. A division of labor we should celebrate, if not for the fact that, with all those professionals, employees’ access keys still end up in the wrong hands. The paradox is so‑so: so many resources to save a sinking ship because the captain forgot where he put the helm.
Then comes the “action plan” with the adoption of strong authentication and USB tokens, the new talisman against data thieves. But let’s be honest, where were these tokens when the first attack exploited an “account compromise” already in June? Perhaps the government thinks security is a matter of gadgets rather than a defense culture. Or perhaps, more simply, the answer was “too late”.
And finally the modern promise to “test ourselves with controlled artificial intelligences”. Skrillex plays in the heads of listeners: AI is faster at finding flaws than humans are at fixing them. So, should we perhaps fear that our true vulnerability is our credulity, not the technology? Or, ultimately, is it just another way to generate sensational headlines, while citizens are left wondering: who will have to pay the bills for these “security measures”?
Koan of the day
A monk asked the Master: “Why does the tax authority, guardian of our data, lose it more easily than a sailboat in a storm?”
The Master replied: “Because the tax authority believes security is a password written on a post‑it, and the wind of negligence sweeps it away.”
Then the monk persisted: “If training is the remedy, why is training agents not to open phishing emails like teaching an elephant to do a handstand?”
The Master smiled and said: “Because balance is an illusion; true strength lies in remembering that the safest door is the one that never opens.”
But back to the news.
France is the most avoided European stock market by investors, according to a Bank of America survey
A recent monthly survey by Bank of America showed that, among six European markets analyzed, France is the one that generates the most skepticism among investors. The US bank interviewed 98 fund managers, representing $272 billion in assets, asking them whether to overweight or underweight the respective markets. The result was a record negative balance of -56 % for the French market, the lowest value ever recorded by the bank.
The sample showed a clear preference for Spain (+24 % balance), followed by Germany (+20 %), Italy (+12 %) and the United Kingdom (+10 %). By comparison, Switzerland closed at -5 %. In recent months the French balance was already negative, but progressively worsened from -21 % in May, -29 % in June, -37 % in July, finally reaching -56 % in August.
Analysts attribute this aversion to several factors. Political uncertainty linked to the 2027 presidential election, the persistent French public deficit, and ten‑year bond yields that have surpassed 4 % – the highest since 2008 – weaken confidence. Vincent Juvyns, head of investments at ING Belgium, emphasized how the lack of a clear government framework and pressure on bond yields negatively affect equities.
Another source of discomfort is the performance of the luxury sector, which represents a significant part of the CAC 40’s market capitalization. LVMH and Hermès have recorded declines of 30.45 % and 26.6 % respectively since the start of the year, while Kering limited losses to -14.39 %. The luxury weakness has been aggravated by the Middle East conflict and stagnant Chinese demand. Deutsche Bank highlighted uncertainty over a possible LVMH recovery, while the Royal Bank of Canada downgraded its recommendation on Hermès, fearing a slowdown in growth.
In the broader context, European markets have posted solid performance this year: the Stoxx Europe 600 has gained almost 10 % in 2026, the IBEX 35 rose 15.75 %, the DAX 7 %, the FTSE MIB 18.6 %, the FTSE 100 8.4 % and the SMI 7.95 %. The CAC 40, however, recorded a modest rise of 4.83 % since the start of the year, confirming its position as the most “boudé” market among its peers.
BFM Bourse, 18 August 2026
Fact Check by Gemma4.
Mika chooses Tuscany: the 15th‑century manor becomes a creative retreat away from partner Andy
The singer‑songwriter celebrated his 43 years in a Tuscan villa that he turned into a true laboratory of life and art. Located about fifteen kilometres southeast of Florence, the house, dating back to the 14th century, has been restored with extravagant taste: two piglet sculptures bearing the inscription “Piglets can fly” welcome guests, while the interiors are full of masks, artworks and colorful murals that blend fantasy and tradition. “Here we make, we produce, we create”, Mika told a French journalist during a spring visit, emphasizing the desire to keep a “do‑it‑yourself” culture alive.
The project is not just about aesthetics. Mika tends a garden from which he harvests herbs and vegetables for the kitchen, where he loves preparing meals for his team during meetings. When he wants a break, he treats himself to a visit to the restaurant of a service station in Ginestra Fiorentina, appreciating the authenticity of small local producers. His creativity also extends to a warehouse in Apulia, where he stores the clothing designed for his tours.
His partner, director Andy Dermanis, lives mainly in London; the geographic distance is a conscious choice and not a breakup. After more than twenty years together, the couple meets periodically in Italy, in England or in Miami, where they own other properties. “It’s not an escape, but an arrangement that suits us”, Mika explained, reaffirming the importance of preserving personal spaces within a lasting relationship.
Gala.fr, 18 August 2026
Fact Check by Gemma4.
Welcome to the international bulletin from FranciaOggi and Radio Centrale Milano for Wednesday 19 August 2026 on FranciaOggi.com in podcasting and on Medium Wave at 1575 kHz.
From Paris, this is Rachel Costa.
French authorities warn of a new slowdown in OpenAI’s artificial intelligence development
OpenAI announced that it has slowed the research and development pace of its AI models, citing the need to strengthen confinement systems to avoid “misalignment” risks. The decision comes after a series of cyber intrusions that have hit companies in various sectors. The US company emphasized that AI safety must precede commercial expansion, even if this may temporarily slow the adoption of new features.
U.S. President Donald Trump temporarily suspends 50% commercial tariffs on Canada
Trump said he has reached a preliminary agreement with Ottawa, delaying by three days the implementation of the new tariffs on a wide range of Canadian products. The move, announced during a press conference, aims to facilitate the conclusion of a broader trade treaty. Canada welcomed the decision, but observers fear that trade tensions will remain high until the details of the agreement are defined.
Nvidia recalibrates its AI competitive advantage, shifting from chips to capital
According to analysts, Nvidia’s strategy is shifting: the company is increasingly relying on its ability to fund AI projects through capital investments, rather than relying solely on chip production. This evolution is seen as a response to the growing market demand for integrated AI solutions, which require not only hardware but also software platforms and cloud services. The change could cement Nvidia’s role as a central hub in the AI ecosystem.
Yield on French government bonds exceeds 4%: a signal of pressure on bond markets
French public debt has seen the yield on ten‑year bonds rise above the 4% threshold, the highest level since 2008. The increase is attributed to persistent inflation, rising energy prices, and geopolitical tensions that have pushed investors toward safer assets. The French government has pledged spending‑containment measures to mitigate the debt burden, but experts warn that the situation could worsen if the energy crisis persists.
Chinese humanoid robot maker Unitree records a 542% surge at Shanghai debut
Unitree, a company specialized in producing robots similar to those found in research labs, saw its shares increase by more than five times during the first day of trading on the Shanghai Stock Exchange. Strong demand was fueled by expectations from international investors interested in potential robot applications in logistics and domestic assistance. Analysts believe the growth may stabilize, but volatility remains high.
OpenAI launches a version of ChatGPT specifically designed for teenagers
OpenAI has introduced a new variant of its famous language model, equipped with stricter safeguards to ensure the safety of young users. The teen version incorporates filters for inappropriate content and limits on conversations about sensitive topics, as well as providing parental‑control tools. The company emphasized that the decision responds to growing concerns from parents and regulators regarding AI use among minors.
Stellantis recalls nearly a million vehicles for a defect in the rear‑camera display system
The automaker has launched a global recall affecting about 950 000 units of the Ram, Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep brands. The defect, linked to image‑processing software, can prevent proper display of obstacles behind the vehicle. Stellantis has urged owners to visit dealers for a diagnosis and, if necessary, a free repair, aiming to limit the risk of accidents.
Tesla prepares the launch of Cybercab, the steering‑wheel‑less robotaxi slated for August
Tesla told employees that the new Cybercab model, designed for autonomous transportation services, will be unveiled to the public in Austin by the end of the month. The vehicle, lacking a steering wheel, uses a fully automated driving system based on advanced artificial intelligence. The company aims to revolutionize the taxi market, offering a low‑operational‑cost solution without a human driver. Experts are closely monitoring safety tests before the debut.
Weather Paris, Monaco Monte Carlo and Milan for Wednesday 19 August 2026
Paris – Variable day with rain showers
In early morning the capital wakes under a very cloudy sky with temperatures around 21 °C, feeling like 23 °C and light winds of 10 km/h but with gusts that can reach 25 km/h; the chance of rain is around 45 %.
In the afternoon the heat rises to 27 °C, felt as 28, the sun barely appears through very dense clouds and gusts intensify up to 55 km/h, with the risk of light showers reaching 55 %.
In the evening temperatures drop to 22 °C, felt as 23, the sky remains very cloudy but with some clearing and the chance of rain rises to 70 %, while the wind falls to 15 km/h with gusts of 50 km/h.
During the night the low temperature reaches 18 °C, felt as 16 thanks to wind of 10 km/h and gusts of 30 km/h, the sky is clearer and there is no chance of precipitation.
The thermometer swings between a low of 18 °C and a high of 27 °C, with variable winds from 10 to 20 km/h and occasional gusts, according to expert Régis Crêpet.
Monaco Monte Carlo – Scorching heat and clear sky
At sunrise the day begins with a temperature of 27 °C, felt as 28, light wind of 10 km/h and gusts of 20 km/h, with no threat of rain.
The afternoon is marked by a peak of 31 °C, felt up to 40 under the scorching sun, the wind remains light at 10 km/h with gusts of 20 km/h and the sky stays almost cloudless.
In the evening temperatures drop to 28 °C, felt as 31 due to humidity, with winds of 10 km/h and gusts of 20 km/h, the sky clears further but remains predominantly clear.
During the night the low hovers around 25 °C, felt as 28, the wind is almost nonexistent with gusts of 20 km/h, with no chance of rain.
The thermometer varies between 25 and 31 °C, with light winds and a total absence of precipitation for the whole day.
Milan – Sun with possible evening showers
Milan’s morning presents mostly partly clear skies, temperatures between 23 and 26 °C, feeling 23‑24 °C, almost no wind from the north‑northeast at 2 km/h and no rain in sight.
During the day temperatures gradually rise to 32 °C, felt as 33, with the sun dominating the sky and wind remaining weak from east‑southeast around 2‑4 km/h, without significant precipitation.
In early afternoon a slight increase in cloudiness appears and the chance of rain begins to rise, reaching 10 % around 3 p.m., with temperatures around 31‑32 °C.
In the evening temperatures drop to 30 °C, with scattered clouds and a small chance of light rain around 20 %, wind blowing from the south at 4 km/h.
During the night temperatures stay between 27 and 30 °C, the sky is predominantly clear or slightly cloudy, wind is weak from the south at 3‑4 km/h and the chance of rain remains low.
The day’s temperature range varies between a low of 23 °C and a high of 32 °C, with light winds and a slight chance of rain toward the evening, according to expert Daniele Berlusconi of 3BMeteo.
Rachel’s Weather Editorial – The climate is to blame for everything, or maybe not?
The cry of those blaming climate change for every single drop of rain or every heat wave is getting louder: “Look, it was an extreme drought, it’s CO₂’s fault!”. But was this morning’s sun really sent to scorch our corners by some secret laboratory?
Perhaps the answer is simpler: nature follows its own rhythm, and we are used to looking for a culprit whenever the temperature rises or falls, turning every cloud into a global conspiracy.
Koan of the day
A monk asked: “What is the true face of time today?”
Zhaozhou replied: “Time is a reflection of our mind, not an enemy to fear.”
The monk responded: “Then why does rain fall when we don’t want it?”
Zhaozhou concluded: “Because rain is only the song of the wind meeting the clouds.”
And that’s today’s weather.
Sign-off.
Online, on X and Mastodon, on all smart speakers and on medium wave, this is FranciaOggi with Centrale Milano 1575 kilohertz.