European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde has announced her resignation, stepping down nearly nine months before her scheduled eight-year term concludes. The decision comes as a surprise, given the standard practice of central bank leaders serving out their full terms. The European Central Bank confirmed the move in a statement, leaving markets and policymakers to speculate on the implications for monetary policy and financial stability. The early departure raises questions about the bank’s leadership transition amid ongoing economic challenges.


European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde will resign Feb. 7, nine months ahead of the end of her 8-year term, the ECB said Thursday.