By Marco Hugo Barsotti MHB 
Welcome to am1575news, the bulletin of France24 and Radio Centrale Milano for Wednesday 16 September 2026 in podcasting, on medium wave and on franciaoggi.com. In the newsroom in Nice Marco Hugo Barsotti, from Paris Rachel Costa.
France24: France in Putin’s sights? Banque de France: growth even lower, now projected at 0.4% – LVMH no longer among Europe’s top 10 – Weather Paris Monte Carlo Milan
News from France
LVMH falls out of the top 10 of the largest European market capitalizations
The French luxury group, which this year has suffered considerably on the stock market, has slipped from its leading market capitalization in Europe to find itself outside the top ten most listed companies on the continent. Wednesday September 15, Companies Market Cap data place LVMH at 11th position among European market capitalizations, with a value of €232.5 billion, just behind Siemens, L’Oréal and other giants.
LVMH’s share has dropped 36.8 % since January 1 and about 46 % over the past three years, marking the third strongest decline on the CAC 40. The pan‑European Stoxx Europe Luxury 10 index also fell 22 % over the same period.
The slowdown is attributed to a contraction in activity in the third quarter, especially for the fashion and leather goods segment, which accounts for more than 70 % of the current operating result. Deutsche Bank highlighted that the protection of high‑income consumers has weakened in the face of signals of a significant slowdown in the Chinese economy. Barclays, citing the legal dispute in China, reported a reduction in foot traffic at Louis Vuitton stores, while Morgan Stanley forecasts a 2 % contraction in comparable revenue of the fashion and leather division in the third quarter, with difficulty justifying a stock revaluation.
The most striking case is the dispute with the Chinese tea chain Molly Tea, accused of having used a floral pattern too similar to the Vuitton monogram. Although LVMH secured a favorable court ruling, the issue has fueled a sense of national pride in China, affecting the summer sales of the flagship brand.
In summary, the group faces both the uncertainty of the global luxury market, aggravated by the conflict in the Middle East, and specific tensions in Asian markets, factors that have contributed to its market‑cap decline.
BFM Bourse, 15 September 2026
Fact Check by Gemma4.
Banque de France lowers the forecasted growth to 0.4% for 2026: the lowest result since 2012 excluding Covid
The Bank of France has reduced its GDP growth forecast to 0.4% for 2026, marking the most unfavorable result since 2012, if the pandemic‑marked 2020 is excluded. The new estimates confirm those of INSEE, which last year had already indicated a “decrochage” of France compared to European countries.
The negative trend is now consolidated: the French economy lost momentum in the first half, hampered by a drop in GDP in the first quarter and stagnation in the second, partly due to the effects of the war in the Middle East. The Bank of France attributes the weakness to weak dynamics in commercial services, the persistent decline in the construction sector, and the early effects of heat waves on agricultural production. Recent heat waves have already reduced growth by 0.1 percentage points.
Foreign trade continues to support activity, especially thanks to equipment goods, transport equipment, IT and electronic products, as well as the aerospace, defense sectors and data‑center construction. However, the contribution of exports remains limited, while household spending is restrained by an inflation forecast around 2.3% annually, which erodes purchasing power. It is estimated that real wages will fall by about the same 0.3 % this year, with a slight improvement expected for 2027. INSEE forecasts a 0.4 % reduction in purchasing power for all households over the same period.
Xavier Debrun, chief economist of the Bank of France, rejected the idea of a “decrochage”, warning that talking about despair could fuel a self‑fulfilling prophecy. He argued that although 2026 growth is modest, it is not an irreversible drop: the economy shows resilience, exports continue to support activity and internal demand, still weak, should strengthen over the next two years. The unemployment rate is expected to rise to 8.4 % by the end of the year, then fall to 8 % in 2028, but remains above the full‑employment targets set by the government.
Forecasts for 2027 depend mainly on energy price developments. In an optimistic scenario, with oil below $80 per barrel and natural gas at €43 per megawatt hour, inflation would fall to 1.9 % and growth could reach 0.9 % in 2027 and 1.2 % in 2028. In case of higher prices, growth would remain stuck at 0.4 % in 2027, with inflation around 2.2 %. In any case, the Bank of France does not anticipate an increase in financing rates for the French state, but warns that private investment could face further constraints due to tight credit conditions and fiscal uncertainty.BFM TV, 15 September 2026
Fact Check by Gemma4.
France is a “priority target” of Vladimir Putin, says Foreign Minister Jean‑Noël Barrot
French Foreign Minister Jean‑Noël Barrot, guest on the news program “20 Heures” of September 15, stated that France represents a “priority candidate” of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Barrot emphasized that, in the last five years, Russia has intensified a series of “irresponsible” actions against Europe, citing the drone attack on a train in Ukraine near the Polish border, the interception of a drone over Lithuania by NATO, and the incident with a Russian ship accused by Denmark of endangering its helicopters.
According to the minister, these facts constitute a serious violation of the sovereignty of European countries, but also demonstrate Putin’s determination not to be intimidated. “This aggressiveness towards Europe is not new, but it is accelerating,” he added, urging not to yield to the Russian president’s pressure.
Barrot recalled that France has invested heavily in defence: “We have put in place all means to protect ourselves, and it is one of the reasons why, at the President of the Republic’s urging, the armed forces budget has been doubled over the last ten years.”
Looking ahead to the electoral future, the minister warned that, with the European elections scheduled for next year, Putin will seek “one way or another to influence the choice of Europeans and the French.”
franceinfo, 15/09/2026
Fact Check by Gemma4.
Rachel’s Editorial – “Putin chooses the menu of the day: Grilled France”
I will now read you my editorial for today.
In 2026 the echo of a minister proclaiming France a “priority candidate” of Vladimir Putin is still heard, but without a shred of concrete evidence. It’s a bit like saying the bread is already burnt before even setting the oven to 200 degrees: a verbal spectacle, little substance.
And let’s not forget timing: a year before the European elections, fear becomes a campaign tool more effective than a vaccine brochure. Who is truly afraid of a drone when the real threat is a ballot box? It’s easier to frighten people than to explain the genuine reasons behind a geopolitical tension.
The minister, meanwhile, adorns himself with compliments for “doubling the military budget in ten years”, but forgets to tell us how many missile‑shaped candies we have bought. An expenditure that looks more like a grand theater curtain than a real defence strategy.
Finally, journalism that reports the statement without asking “where does this certainty come from?” fuels a form of alarmism from political showcases. It is easier to paint the future in blazing red than to invest in precise analysis: welcome to the new era of governmental click‑bait.
Koan of the Day
A monk asked the Master: “If France is Putin’s favorite prey, what is the true target of our fears?”
The Master replied: “The true target is the reflection we see in the mirror of our anxiety, not the knife we wield in the night.”
The monk, more insistently, asked: “Then why do politicians brandish danger as an electoral weapon?”
The Master smiled and said: “Because a fire that burns the public is more visible than the light that ignites reason; thus the shadow grows stronger than truth.”
But let’s return to the news.
Welcome to the international news bulletin from FranciaOggi and Radio Centrale Milano for Wednesday 16 September 2026 on FranciaOggi.com in podcasting and on Medium Wave at 1575 kHz.
From Paris, this is Rachel Costa.
Scandal at the ECB: possible early resignation of Christine Lagarde
The European Central Bank employee representative has called for greater transparency on the timing of a possible early departure of Christine Lagarde, the institution’s president. Internal sources indicated that the prospect of a “postponed” farewell is fueling concerns among markets, which fear a slowdown in monetary policy. In an environment of persistent inflation and weak growth, pressure on Lagarde has intensified, with analysts trying to understand how her potential exit could affect upcoming interest‑rate decisions. The ECB, long under the spotlight for its decisions, is now also facing growing internal tension. The internal debate could have repercussions on the credibility of the entire euro zone among international investors.
The Pentagon admits ammunition shortage due to the war in Iran
A U.S. Department of Defense inspector confirmed that strategic ammunition stocks are insufficient following months of conflict with Iran. The report, released after numerous clarification requests, highlights that pressure on supply lines has exceeded initial forecasts, contradicting earlier statements from the president who claimed “practically unlimited” availability. The shortage has affected both artillery systems and combat aircraft, limiting the operational capacity of the U.S. armed forces. Coalition allies have expressed concern about the long‑term sustainability of operations, while in Tehran anti‑Western rhetoric has intensified. The U.S. government is now under pressure to speed up production and seek alternative supplies.
OpenAI warns: the world has reason to fear, but should trust artificial intelligence
OpenAI chief Sam Altman stated that the global population “has the right to be afraid” of the risks associated with artificial intelligence, but at the same time the public should maintain confidence in industry companies. In a televised interview, Altman explained that transparency and accountability are the keys to overcoming apprehensions, emphasizing the importance of a balanced regulatory framework. He also highlighted progress made in AI safety, urging institutions not to stifle innovation with overly restrictive regulations. The remarks came amid a heated international debate on responsible AI use, especially after recent controversies over bias and privacy. Experts received the proposal cautiously, however calling for concrete measures to monitor emerging technologies.
Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg sides with Nvidia’s Jensen Huang on AI safety and slowdown
During an event in San Francisco, Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg shared Jensen Huang, CEO of Nvidia’s, view on the need for a prudent approach to AI development. The two leaders argued that companies must adopt robust safety measures without hindering the pace of technological innovation. Zuckerberg stated that AI is one of the most powerful levers for the future of the digital economy, but its deployment must occur responsibly. Huang, for his part, emphasized the importance of avoiding “antitrust shortcomings” linked to overly excessive safeguards, which he deemed “completely useless.” The debate sparked further discussions among industry players, with some calling for stricter regulation while others defend research freedom.
Meta prepares camera‑free smart glasses to address privacy concerns
Mark Zuckerberg’s company announced the development of a new generation of smart glasses without a camera, a move aimed at appeasing growing criticism over consumer surveillance. The “camera‑free” design will allow users to benefit from augmented‑reality features without fearing unauthorized recordings. According to Meta’s statements, the new devices will use motion and audio sensors to provide immersive experiences while ensuring a “privacy‑focused design.” This decision comes after a series of governmental investigations into data usage by social platforms, which pushed the giant to revise its policies. Market analysts forecast a favorable acceptance by the public, especially among consumers most attentive to protecting their personal data.
U.S. interest rates hit the highest peak since 2007
The yield on U.S. ten‑year Treasury bonds rose above 5%, the highest level recorded in almost two decades. The increase reflects expectations of a more restrictive monetary policy from the Federal Reserve, which is battling inflation still above target. Investors responded by selling fixed‑income securities and shifting to more stable currencies, while companies reported higher financing costs. Market analysts fear that rising rates could hamper the economic recovery, especially in sectors most sensitive to credit costs. The bond‑market signal could foreshadow a Fed decision to raise rates further in the coming months.
Bank of Japan foresees a 25‑basis‑point rate hike, the highest in thirty years
A recent CNBC survey revealed that the Bank of Japan is ready to raise its benchmark rate by 0.25 % at the next meeting, marking the steepest increase in thirty years. The hike is motivated by the desire to curb rising inflation and reduce the economy’s reliance on zero‑interest debt. Financial experts anticipate that the move could strengthen the yen, while simultaneously increasing pressure on borrowers, both domestic and foreign. Some large Japanese firms have already begun renegotiating credit contracts in view of higher costs. The decision will be closely watched by Asian markets, which await signals of any further interventions to stabilise growth.
Weather Paris, Monaco Monte Carlo and Milan for Wednesday 16 September 2026
Paris, variable weather but no surprises
In the morning Paris feels cool with a temperature of 15 °C, partly cloudy sky and a light southeast wind of about 10 km/h. In the afternoon the sun clears but clouds become denser, temperature rises to 22 °C and wind increases slightly to 15 km/h with gusts up to 35 km/h, while rain probability stays around twenty percent. In the evening the sky becomes cloudy, temperature drops to 19 °C and wind blows moderately at 10 km/h, with a slight chance of rain. During the night the sky clears, temperatures reach 14 °C and wind eases to 10 km/h with no precipitation. Overall conditions remain normal for this time of year, confirms expert Régis Crêpet.
Monaco, shining sun and light breezes
In the morning Monaco wakes up with a temperature of 21 °C, clear sky and a gentle north wind of 10 km/h. In the afternoon the heat intensifies, temperature reaches 27 °C, the sun is almost uninterrupted and the breezes stay light, still around 10 km/h with occasional stronger gusts but no rain. Sunset brings a slightly cloudy sky, temperature drops to 23 °C and wind remains at 10 km/h, making the air pleasantly fresh. At night the sky stays clear, temperatures near 21 °C and wind remains weak, with no threat of rain. The conditions are typical of a late Mediterranean summer.
Milan, high temperatures and a light evening drizzle
At sunrise Milan records a temperature of 21 °C, sky with a few scattered clouds and a light north‑northeast wind at 5 km/h. During the morning temperatures stay steady around 21 °C, with a partly cloudy sky and light wind. The afternoon brings the day’s heat peak, with a high of 29 °C, predominantly clear sky and wind of about 5‑7 km/h from east‑southeast. Late afternoon becomes cloudier and from twenty onward a light rain of about 1.1 mm is recorded, accompanied by a 4 km/h south wind. In the evening temperatures drop to 25 °C, clouds remain present and wind blows moderately towards southwest. During the night the sky is cloudy, temperature falls to 24 °C and wind stays weak, with no further precipitation. The overall picture is provided by expert Daniele Berlusconi of 3BMeteo.
Rachel’s Weather Editorial – The Sun is an Excuse
Today in Monaco a high of 27 °C is forecast, and immediately follows the usual line‑up of scientific profiles proclaiming: “climate change!”. Is it really necessary to turn a beautiful summer day into an alarm conference? Perhaps some believe that every sunlight is a signal of global warming, but isn’t it more practical to enjoy the heat without overreacting with alarms?
And if in Paris the rain has only winds of windy winds (winds), why not have fun instead of spending hours in front of academic debates? The weather is here, the sun is here, and the climate? We leave that to those who want to buy panic in a package.
Koan of the Day
A monk asked: “What is the true nature of the sky today?”
Zhaozhou replied: “In Monaco the sky is clear, in Paris the clouds thicken, in Milan the rain is just a millimetre.”
The monk responded: “So the sky is everywhere and nowhere at the same time?”
Zhaozhou concluded: “The sky is the reflection of our eyes, not a promise of change.”
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.