# European Central Bank (ECB) Press Conference: Christine Lagarde and Luis de Guindos Discuss Economic Outlook

Date: December 18, 2025

Location: Frankfurt am Main

The European Central Bank (ECB) held a press conference on December 18, 2025, where President Christine Lagarde and Vice-President Luis de Guindos discussed the economic outlook in Europe. In this summary, we will outline the key points from the Q&A session.

### Economic Growth and Inflation

• Inflation concerns: The ECB emphasized that inflation remains a concern, with a focus on price stability.
• Growth slowdown: The bank noted that growth has been slowing down in recent months, mainly due to factors such as global trade tensions and supply chain disruptions.

### Interest Rates

• Interest rate decision: The ECB confirmed its interest rate decision of maintaining a zero or negative interest rate policy for the foreseeable future.
• Gradual normalization: However, the bank hinted at a gradual process of normalizing monetary policy in the coming months.

### Economic Prospects

• Labor market conditions: Christine Lagarde highlighted that labor market conditions are improving in many parts of Europe, with low unemployment rates and rising wages.
• Fiscal policy implications: The ECB emphasized that fiscal policies should be coordinated to avoid disrupting economic growth and inflation.

### Global Economic Outlook

• Global risks: Vice-President Luis de Guindos warned about global risks such as rising tensions in the South China Sea, climate-related disasters, and pandemics.
• Trade agreements: The ECB expressed support for trade agreements that promote free trade and economic cooperation.

### Key Quotes from Christine Lagarde

• "We will continue to monitor inflation developments closely and adjust our monetary policy accordingly." - Christine Lagarde
• "The European economy is facing a slowdown, but we are confident in its resilience and growth potential." - Christine Lagarde

### Key Quotes from Luis de Guindos

• "The global economic landscape is complex, with various risks that require careful attention. We must remain vigilant and adapt to changing circumstances." - Luis de Guindos
• "Trade agreements are essential for promoting free trade and economic cooperation. We will continue to support these efforts." - Luis de Guindos

### Conclusion

The ECB's press conference on December 18, 2025, provided valuable insights into the bank's views on the European economy and global economic outlook. The key takeaways from this event are:

• The ECB remains committed to price stability and will continue to monitor inflation developments closely.
• There is a gradual normalization of monetary policy expected in the coming months.
• Labor market conditions are improving, but fiscal policies should be coordinated to avoid disrupting growth and inflation.

Overall, the ECB's stance on interest rates, economic prospects, and global risks highlights the complexities and uncertainties facing the European economy.