By Marco Hugo Barsotti MHB 
Welcome to am1575news, the news bulletin from Francia24 and Radio Centrale Milano for Wednesday, October 21, 2026, in podcasting, on medium waves and on franciaoggi.com. In the newsroom in Nice, Marco Hugo Barsotti; from Paris, Rachel Costa.
News from France
Carrefour cuts financial targets due to the situation in France
The retail giant Carrefour has had to revise its outlook for the current year downwards. On Tuesday, October 20, the company announced a reduction in its annual financial targets, motivated by the worsening social and security situation in France. According to the group’s assessment, the violence and looting that occurred during recent demonstrations have affected a significant number of points of sale, putting employees and business partners in extremely difficult conditions.
During the weekend of October 17 and 18, several French cities were the scene of clashes related to protests over the cost of living and student demands. In response to the escalation of tension, the government introduced partial curfews in certain urban areas.
Alexandre Bompard, chairman and CEO of Carrefour, stated in a press release that the group is facing an unprecedented situation in France. Uncertainty regarding consumption dynamics and the operating conditions of retail outlets is indeed very high. This instability, which comes during a critical period for commerce, heavily impacts the spending capacity of citizens, already weakened by rising energy costs.
Consequently, the group now anticipates more contained growth in current operating results, with an operating margin that will increase only between 0 and 0.15 percent compared to the previous forecast of 0.25 percent. Net result per share will also be considered stable or in slight growth, compared to the more marked growth initially expected.
In addition to the decrease in customer footfall, the company reports a reduction in opening hours due to curfews and an increase in operating costs related to security and logistics. The group also anticipates a slight decline in net cash flow for 2026. Bompard had previously estimated that the damages suffered by the group on Saturday alone amounted to tens of millions of euros.
To contain the impact, the company is reducing investments in France, bringing projected spending to 1.6 billion euros compared to the previous target of 1.7 billion. Regarding the third quarter, Carrefour recorded a 2.3% year-on-year increase in revenue to 22.69 billion euros, a figure slightly lower than analyst expectations. In France, the group’s revenue rose by 1.2%, reaching 11.90 billion euros.
Source: BFM Bourse and Reuters, October 20, 2026
Fact Check by Gemma4.
Sébastien Lecornu promises a massive security deployment for new demonstrations
Sébastien Lecornu announced a massive deployment of law enforcement forces for the mobilization day scheduled for Saturday, October 24. During the question session to the government on Tuesday, October 20, the Prime Minister acknowledged that the measures adopted last Saturday were too static and insufficiently mobile. Following criticism in the National Assembly regarding the violence recorded during the protests of October 17, Lecornu assured that the new strategy will be characterized by greater responsiveness and movement speed. The minister confirmed that the Minister of the Interior has already sent relevant instructions to the prefects.
Laurent Nuñez also emphasized how the government intends to raise the level of the security deployment. The new operational doctrine will focus on increasing the number of forces deployed and their ability to react promptly to strike those groups operating with planned tactics to disperse law enforcement forces.
Curfews in several French cities to counter violence
Movement restriction measures are being renewed or introduced in several cities in France following the serious episodes of violence that occurred last weekend. In Paris, the curfew affecting the Place de la République area and the Halles district from 11 PM Tuesday until 6 AM Wednesday has been confirmed. In parallel, a decree has been issued prohibiting any undeclared gatherings from 8 PM to 6 AM in sensitive areas such as the Elysée, the National Assembly, the Senate, and major railway or commercial hubs. The police prefecture reiterated that such restrictions will continue as long as necessary.
In the center of Lyon, the curfew has also been renewed from 9 PM to 6 AM. Local authorities highlighted how this measure has already helped restore calm. In addition to the curfew, the ban on gatherings has been extended to start as early as the afternoon to ensure the safety of residents and shopkeepers, especially in areas hit by acts of vandalism and looting.
In Marseille, a specific measure is being introduced for the first time exclusively concerning minors, valid from 10 PM Tuesday until 5 AM. Mayor Benoît Payan specified that the restriction will cover parts of the city center, including the Canebière, and several commercial areas. The decision aims to protect economic activities after recent clashes, while requiring an increase in the presence of law enforcement on the ground.
Finally, restrictions will extend to Toulouse starting Thursday evening, while continuing as planned in the cities of Nice and Bordeaux. The Prime Minister stated that the measures already in place have favored a return to order and that new decisions will be taken where the situation requires it.
Source: franceinfo, October 20, 2026
Fact Check by Gemma4.
Editorial by Rachel – Minors in the house: the new diet of social control
I am reading you my editorial for today.
How ridiculous has the management of public order become? We are facing a parade of curfews that seem to have come out of a crisis management manual for nurseries, and yet the issue is serious. Paris, Lyon, Nice, Bordeaux, and now also Marseille. A tour of Europe of restrictions, where the word “order” seems to be: close everything, hoping the problem resolves itself behind a barred door.
The stroke of genius comes from Marseille: a curfew that exclusively affects minors. Really? Have we invented a new category of criminals who only manifest before adulthood? Is it a brilliant strategy or just a lazy way to make it look like something is being done while avoiding addressing the real causes of social unrest? I wonder if the authorities think that, once eighteen years old, the instinct for revolt magically vanishes with a bureaucratic final blow.
And what about the timing logic of these measures? We are talking about curfews in force during weekdays, while the demonstrations—the real ones, the ones that matter—are called for Saturday. It is a masterpiece of distraction: remaining vigilant and repressive when nothing is happening, only to find oneself unprepared when the square fills up. Shopkeepers are protected with restrictions that seem more like a suggestion than an order, hoping that calm reigns by miracle.
In this game of mirrors between prefectures and municipalities, the feeling is that security is no longer an objective, but an excuse to exercise a control that seems anything but effective. If security is built only by closing streets to youngsters, then we have a political problem, not a public order problem. But then again, it is much easier to ban an outing than to build a future where young people have no reason to break everything.
Koan of the day
A monk asked the Master: “If a young person is locked in the house to protect the shop, is the shop truly safe?”
The Master replied: “A closed box protects the treasure, but it does not prevent the thief from finding another way to enter.”
Then the monk insisted: “But if the young person becomes an adult soon, will the door remain open for them?”
The Master smiled and said: “The adult does not need closed doors; they need roads that do not force them to destroy them to find meaning.”
But let’s get back to the news.
Albert and Charlene of Monaco prepare the National Day with gifts and traditions
The Principality of Monaco is preparing for moments of great celebration. On the occasion of the upcoming National Day, scheduled for November 19, Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene have planned a series of surprises dedicated to the citizens. As per tradition, the program includes the delivery of special gifts to the elders of the Principality.
To receive this tribute, eligible citizens, namely residents aged 60 or older, must register between October 20 and 22, 2026, by contacting the Princely Palace by phone or through the official website. Although the initiative was desired by the royal couple, Albert and Charlene will not be present at the physical delivery of the gifts. This special task has been entrusted to Princess Stéphanie of Monaco, who will visit the Senior Center on Wednesday, November 18, 2026, starting at 2:30 PM, to personally deliver the gifts and share a moment of closeness with the citizens.
This celebration follows a period of intense activity for the sovereign, who on October 16 marked the twentieth anniversary of his foundation dedicated to environmental protection and the safeguarding of the planet. During the celebratory event held at Sporting Monte-Carlo, the Prince met approximately 400 personalities involved in the environmental cause, delivering three awards and praising the dedication of those who have supported the project for two decades.
Source: 6Medias, October 20, 2026
Fact Check by Gemma4.
Welcome to the international news from FranciaOggi and Radio Centrale Milano for Wednesday, October 21, 2026 on FranciaOggi.com in podcasting and on Medium Waves at 1575 kHz.
From the newsrooms in Nice and Paris.
Political tensions and social clashes in France
France is going through a period of deep political and social instability. After the violent clashes of October 17, the government and various political forces are engaged in a heated verbal battle to establish responsibility for the urban chaos. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu is attempting to manage the crisis through meetings with unions and political parties, seeking answers to growing social demands.
Meanwhile, polls for the upcoming 2027 presidency indicate competitive scenarios, with figures such as Marine Le Pen consolidating their positions while other political leaders face uncertainties about their electoral future. The situation is complicated by tensions between institutions and radical movements, contributing to a climate of uncertainty for the entire country.
The uncertainty of artificial intelligence and the new market giants
The global technology sector is in ferment, driven by the expansion of artificial intelligence. Companies like Nvidia are consolidating their positions, investing heavily to support new specialized cloud service providers, known as neoclouds. However, this boom is bringing significant financial pressure for companies that have gone into debt to purchase high-performance hardware.
In the context of large companies, news emerges regarding a possible meeting between SpaceX and Tesla. Elon Musk has confirmed that committees have been formed to explore a merger between the two entities, an operation that could redefine the boundaries of his technological empires. In parallel, the artificial intelligence industry sees new developments with OpenAI expanding its horizons toward biological research and the discovery of new drugs.
Financial markets and global economic uncertainties
International markets are reacting to various economic news. In the United States, optimism related to the corporate earnings season has boosted industrial stocks, with the Dow Jones rising sharply. At the same time, signs of caution are observed in the American real estate sector, which is showing signs of cooling due to interest rate trends.
In Europe, the economic situation appears more complex. France is facing growing tension regarding its public debt, with a widening spread between French and German bond rates. This instability is also reflected in the insurance sector, which is preparing to manage the exorbitant costs resulting from damages caused by recent social unrest.
Geopolitics and new global balances
On the geopolitical front, attention is turned to the diplomatic maneuvers related to the war in Ukraine. The sending of a US emissary to meet Vladimir Putin marks a crucial moment in relations between Washington and Moscow. This movement occurs while the debate on arms supply and the role of the United States continues to divide allies.
In the Middle East, significant diplomatic engagement is recorded from the Sultan of Oman, whose role as a mediator was praised by King Charles III during an official visit to Windsor. These mediation activities are considered fundamental for the stability of the region and the security of strategic trade routes.
Transportation sector crisis and impact of energy costs
The transportation sector is facing significant challenges related to the increase in operating costs. United Airlines has had to revise its profit outlook due to rising fuel prices. This trend reflects global pressure on energy costs that is hitting the entire airport and logistics sector.
Furthermore, the transportation market situation is influenced by market dynamics requiring greater efficiency. Companies in the sector are called to respond to the demand for more technological and accessible services, in a context of economic uncertainty that influences long-term growth strategies.
Decline of the real estate market and pressure on rates
The global real estate market is showing signs of slowing down in several geographic areas. In the United States, the rise in interest rates is making access to credit more difficult for new buyers, leading to a contraction in sales. Many analysts observe that the market is entering a stalemate phase, influenced by the monetary policies of central banks.
Similar dynamics are observed in Europe, with growing pressure on rental policies and housing availability. Tensions between landlords and tenants and the need for new regulations are becoming central themes in political and social debate, reflecting the difficulty of managing real estate property in periods of economic uncertainty.
Technological innovation and the future of work
Technological evolution is radically transforming the world of work. The integration of artificial intelligence is not only about creating new tools, but also about redefining existing professions. Many experts discuss how artificial intelligence could protect or rather replace certain tasks, creating a new division between automation-resistant jobs and jobs exposed to risk.
In this scenario, cybersecurity and new data-based business models are becoming fundamental pillars. The ability to manage large volumes of data and protect digital infrastructure is seen as one of the keys to future competitiveness, with massive investments shifting toward system protection and the development of intelligent technologies.
Welcome to the weather bulletin from AM 1575 News for Wednesday, October 21, 2026, available online, via AI chatbot podcast, and on medium waves at 1575 kHz. From Paris, I am Rachel Costa.
Weather Forecast – Paris, Monaco Monte-Carlo, Milan, New York for Wednesday, October 21, 2026
Paris Today: Rainy and Windy Morning Leading to Variable Skies
The forecast for Wednesday, October 21, 2026, updated in the early hours by expert Regis Crepet, indicates a day of unstable conditions, although temperatures remain unusually mild for the season. Reliability is rated as good. The morning will be rather intense with very cloudy skies and a high probability of rain for the first part of the day. Winds will be quite active with gusts reaching 45 kilometers per hour. During the afternoon, the rain will become more intermittent while the sky remains very cloudy but will become more variable. Temperatures will reach a maximum of 14 degrees before dropping to 10 degrees in the evening. We expect some clearer intervals later, but pay attention to the wind gusts which will remain constant.
Monaco Monte-Carlo Today: Clear Skies and Mild Temperatures
The weather in Monaco remains pleasant and bright for the moment. We see a morning starting with some partial cloud cover and a slight chance of rain in the early hours, but this will soon give way to a beautiful day. Temperatures this afternoon will reach a maximum of 23 degrees, making the day very mild. Winds will be moderate, with gusts occasionally reaching 40 kilometers per hour, but the sky will remain largely clear or only slightly cloudy. As evening and night approach, the skies will remain predominantly clear with very limited cloud presence. It is a wonderful day to be near the coast, though keep an eye on those wind gusts if you are near the water.
Milan Today: Overcast Skies and Persistent Rain
According to the latest bulletin updated early this morning by expert Daniele Berlusconi of 3BMeteo, the reliability of the forecast is high, confirming the arrival of a low-pressure system. This system is bringing significant instability to the area today. The morning will be characterized by very cloudy skies and constant rain, with some potential thunderstorms in certain areas. Temperatures will remain between 15 and 18 degrees throughout the day. In the afternoon, we expect some temporary breaks between the clouds, but rain will return towards evening. Winds will remain light, coming mainly from the north and east. Looking ahead, we expect a gradual cooling trend in the coming days as the weather changes.
New York Today: Clear Skies and Calm Conditions
New York will experience much calmer and clearer weather today compared to many of its European counterparts. The night will remain clear with temperatures between 13 and 17 degrees. We expect the day to continue with clear skies, offering a bright and pleasant atmosphere. There is practically no risk of precipitation throughout the day, and winds will remain manageable even with occasional gusts. It is a stable and sunny day for the city, making it ideal for any outdoor activity. We expect temperatures to remain mild throughout the afternoon before a cool night sets in.
Radio Nice and Francia24
You can find all news relating to Nice and the Côte d’Azur at radionizza.it
You can find all news relating to France at francia24.com and franciaoggi.com
And now for our French-speaking listeners, a brief recap of today’s news in French.
La situation sociale et sécuritaire en France impacte lourdement l’économie, comme en témoigne le groupe Carrefour qui révise à la baisse ses objectifs financiers après des manifestations violentes ayant causé des dégâts de plusieurs dizaines de millions d’euros. Face à l’escalade des tensions, le gouvernement annonce un déploiement massif des forces de l’ordre pour la journée du 24 octobre, tandis que des couvre-feux sont instaurés dans plusieurs villes, notamment à Paris, Lyon et Marseille où une mesure spécifique concerne les mineurs. Parallèlement, le Prince Albert II et la Princesse Charlene de Monaco préparent la Fête Nationale du 19 novembre, avec une remise de cadeaux aux seniors assurée par la Princesse Stéphanie. Sur la scène internationale, le secteur technologique est marqué par l’essor de l’intelligence artificielle et une possible fusion entre SpaceX et Tesla, alors que les marchés financiers font face à l’incertitude des taux d’intérêt et de l’immobilier. La géopolitique reste tendue avec l’envoi d’un émissaire américain vers la Russie et le rôle de médiateur du Sultan d’Oman en Moyen-Orient. Enfin, le secteur des transports subit la hausse des coûts énergétiques, illustrée par les nouvelles prévisions de United Airlines, dans un contexte de réajustement des modèles de travail face à l’automatisation.
Sign-off.
Online, on X and Mastodon, on all smart speakers and on medium wave, this is FranciaOggi with Centrale Milano 1575 kilohertz.