The executive body of France, led by the Prime Minister and the President presiding over weekly Council meetings.
France has recorded a sharply reduced 2026 grape harvest after an exceptionally hot, dry summer pushed harvests earlier and cut yields. Champagne production has fallen by about half and regulators have temporarily allowed some 2026 bubbly to reach 15% alcohol after sugar levels rose in sun‑stressed grapes. The agriculture ministry has estimated total output near 33.9m hectolitres.
HSBC and Barclays report sizable quarterly profits, boosting investor optimism while triggering renewed calls for tougher bank taxes ahead of the budget. HSBC has reported a 32% rise in quarterly pre-tax profits to $9.6 billion, with shareholder returns including a $1 billion buyback. Barclays follows with $2.3 billion pre-tax profits and a $500 million buyback. Budget chatter intensifies as Healey eyes revenue options to fund cost-of-living supports.