Reuters called the names of four candidates for the post of head of the ECB: the former head of the Central Bank of the Netherlands may head the ECB

Christine Lagarde’s term as president of the European Central Bank (ECB) expires in October 2027, but she may leave early. Among the most likely candidates Reuters calls the former head of the Dutch Central Bank (2011-2025) Claas Knot.

The agency describes Klaas Knot as a "pragmatic supporter" of tight monetary policy. Until 2019, when Mario Draghi headed the ECB, Knot opposed stimulus programs and criticized the ECB’s decision to launch a support program that pushed inflation above the 2% target. Under Christine Lagarde’s presidency, his relationship with the European Central Bank has improved.

Among other candidates cited by Reuters:

Christine Lagarde allowed early resignation if the economic situation in the EU, disturbed by the Middle East conflict, stabilizes. According to the Neue Zurcher Zeitung, her transition to the post of head of the World Economic Forum (WEF) is currently under consideration. To take the post, the newspaper writes, she can already this autumn.