France manages long-term debt auctions amid rising public concern

France continues to successfully auction long-term debt despite rising concerns regarding interest rates and national finances. The Agence France Trésor recently issued nearly 13.5 billion euros in Treasury bonds, though weighted average rates have increased by 33 basis points since August.

Public concern regarding the country's fiscal health is growing. According to an IFOP poll, more than half of French citizens consider the national debt situation “grave,” with 40% describing it as “very worrying.” This represents a five-point increase in concern over the last eight months.

With national debt exceeding 115% of GDP and a deficit projected to remain around 5% of GDP, the public is calling for rapid action. While 77% of respondents support targeted and difficult measures to stabilize finances, 61% express a preference for spending cuts over tax increases.