The US rating agency Fitch confirmed its rating on France's sovereign debt at the A+ level, but reduced future prospects from stable to negative. The decision was motivated by weaker-than-expected economic growth, higher debt-related charges, and a public deficit higher than the estimates of last August. As reported by Euronews, the choice came after the release of Insee data indicating a 0.1% decline in the French gross domestic product in the third quarter.

Fitch emphasized that marked political fragmentation and a complex social climate make it particularly difficult to implement lasting fiscal consolidation. Despite these critical issues, the overall score assigned to Paris remains supported by the size and diversification of the national productive system, the solidity of institutions, eurozone membership, and the resilience of the banking sector. However, the agency expresses doubts about the ability to stabilize accounts ahead of the electoral deadlines scheduled during 2027.

In an official statement, French Minister of Economy and Finance Roland Lescure said he took note of the downgraded outlook. The government representative recalled the indispensable need to approve a responsible budget by the end of the year, aimed at bringing the public deficit down to 5% or lower. During statements to Franceinfo, the minister also highlighted the moment of substantial stalemate experienced by the country's productive activities.

To overcome the absence of a stable majority in the National Assembly, the French executive does not rule out resorting to Article 49.3 of the Constitution or using specific legislative ordinances. Interviewed by Euronews, economist Jérôme Mathis from Paris-Dauphine University pointed out that adoption by ordinance could reduce short-term uncertainty. However, the expert warned that such a path risks failing to consolidate financial credibility and producing limited positive effects on overall market confidence.