Eurozone News
LAST UPDATE: July 12, 2025
Italy FinMin urges banks to do more on lending, IT investment
Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti urged banks to improve corporate lending terms and invest in technology. Despite banking stability, corporate borrowing fell 0.8% YoY in April, and state-guaranteed loans remain large at €294bn.
Insight
The call reflects concern that banks prioritize shareholder returns over economic support, emphasizing the need to redirect financial institutions toward growth-facilitating roles.
Italian growth probably slowed in Q2, central bank says
The Bank of Italy expects economic growth to have slowed in the second quarter, based on softer consumer and investment activity.
Insight
The projected slowdown suggests waning momentum heading into year-end, highlighting the need for policy measures to support demand.
The malaise of Marine Le Pen
Marine Le Pen and her party face fresh legal investigations over alleged illicit campaign financing via supporter loans. This follows her conviction for embezzlement, which included a five-year election ban. The party is also struggling with internal conflicts and image setbacks.
Insight
The legal challenges and internal dysfunction undermine efforts to mainstream the RN, threatening its electoral momentum and future leadership stability.
