France's shoppers set record summer sales budget as inflation persists

A new OpinionWay poll shows French households plan to spend an average of €357 during the summer sales, a rise of €124 from the previous year. About 39 % of respondents say they will take advantage of the sales, with younger shoppers (under 35) most engaged. While clothing remains the top category, interest in appliances and electronics has risen to 39 %.

The state‑run Ciclade platform reports that many French citizens can reclaim dormant savings, with an average refund of around €940 per reclaimed account. Funds from inactive bank accounts, old savings books and unclaimed life‑insurance contracts are transferred to the Caisse des Dépôts after ten years of inactivity, and owners can request their return online.

In parallel, Crédit Mutuel has highlighted a legal exception that lets certain legacy customers hold a second tax‑free savings product similar to the Livret A, known as the Livret Bleu. This loophole applies only to contracts opened before the end of 1979, enabling a limited group of savers to increase their exempted liquid assets.