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Paris News

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Politics – Retirement Talks Stall

French Prime Minister met with union negotiators on June 24 after nationwide strikes failed to break deadlock over pension reform talks. The government is pushing adjustments to retirement age from 62 to 64, triggering resistance from labor groups. These discussions spotlight growing tension between fiscal responsibility targets and public unrest

Economics – Gas Prices & Tax Changes

June ushered in changes: rising gas prices, new energy labels, and tax deadlines. The launch of France Travail—a revamped unemployment-agency oversight—also took effect, impacting jobseekers and budget forecasts

Elections – Public Mood Ahead Vote Year

With snap elections postponed, President Macron publicly acknowledged the move destabilized politics. Paris faces continued uncertainty, as far-left and far-right movements both push for increased influence ahead of 2026 local and national contests

Entertainment & Fashion – Vivatech Showcases AI

The Vivatech expo opened June 11 in Paris, spotlighting AI innovations amid global trade tensions. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang and The President appeared, reinforcing France's goal to lead Europe’s tech sector

PSG Champions League Aftermath

Following PSG’s Champions League win in late May, June saw riots across Paris. Interior Minister Darmanin called for stricter sentences for attack on police. Authorities made 559 arrests, and two deaths were reported during fan celebrations

Employment – Strike Waves Across Sectors

June featured widespread strikes in rail, taxi, and supermarket sectors. Staff walked out over pensions and labor conditions, causing travel disruptions and local frustration

Business & Real Estate – Pedestrianisation Gains

A local referendum approved expanding pedestrian zones and enhancing green coverage. This aligns with city efforts to curb vehicle traffic and boost quality of life, with real estate stakeholders assessing impacts on property appeal .

Science & Technology – River Swimming Sites Prep

Paris is set to open three swimming sites along the Seine starting July 5, part of Paris Plages. These are free-access, integrating leisure with urban planning efforts

Science & Technology – Festivals Hit Green Wave

Starting June 25 and running through September 7, Parc Floral hosts free festivals including Paris Jazz Festival, Classic in Green, and Pestacles (for children). The multi-genre programming underlines community focus on accessibility

Upcoming Paris Cultural Events (Aug–Dec 2025)

Rock en Seine, Domaine de Saint‑Cloud, Aug 22–25

Paris Jazz Festival (Parc Floral), continuing into sept

Silhouette Short Film Festival, Parc de la Butte du Chapeau Rouge, late Aug–early Sep

Interplay: Classical in Green (Parc Floral), Summer–Sept

Pitchfork Music Festival, Nov 3–9 across multiple venues

Disney Music Festival, at Disneyland Paris, through Sept 7

Lamomali Concert by -M-, Accor Arena, Dec 16–17

Nocturnes Lake – Pestacles, Parc Floral, summer

Night Fountains at Versailles, Aug festival

Christmas Markets & Light Festival, various Paris locations, Nov–Dec

🗞️

PM Meets Unions Over Retirement

PM held intense June 24 meetings with union leaders after strikes over the proposed retirement age increase stalled negotiations. The government remains firm while unions push for safeguards and transparency

June Brings Gas & Tax Updates

Residents saw shifts in June including rising gas prices, new energy labeling, and tax-declaration deadlines. The implementation of France Travail aimed to improve oversight of unemployment claims and administrative precision

Paris Political Turmoil After Snap Vote

President Macron admitted the snap elections destabilized national politics. With both far-left and far-right gaining traction, Paris faces uncertainty, influencing public sentiment ahead of next year’s municipal and parliamentary polls

Vivatech 2025 Opens in Paris

June 11 saw the launch of Vivatech, Europe’s top tech show. Highlights: discussions on AI and defense trade tension, speeches by Nvidia’s Huang and President Macron, demonstrating France's tech-driven economic aspirations

PSG Celebration Aftermath Sparks Debate

PSG’s Champions League win triggered mass celebrations and clashes in Paris. Two fatalities and hundreds of arrests highlighted ongoing concerns over fan violence. Interior Minister Darmanin advocates for heavier sentencing for offences against police

Nationwide Strikes Hit Critical Services

June saw domestic disruptions from rail, taxi, and supermarket strikes over pension policy. The public sector impact highlighted fracture lines in labor relations, as commuters and consumers felt the effects

Anti-Semitic Vandalism Sparks Outcry

Early June graffiti targeted Holocaust memorials and synagogues in central Paris. Although no perpetrators claimed responsibility, authorities are pursuing hate-crime charges. Mayor Hidalgo pledged justice and security reassurances

Pedestrianisation Referendum Wins

A referendum approved expanding pedestrian-only zones and greening in central Paris. The shift supports sustainability and enhances urban quality, drawing praise from environmentalists and developers evaluating its real-estate implications

Seine Swimming Sites Announced

City officials revealed plans to open three swimming areas in the Seine from July 5 to August 31 under the Paris Plages initiative. Free and safe river access for locals complements broader efforts in urban leisure

Parc Floral’s Free Music Trifecta

June 25 marked the start of three festivals at Parc Floral: Paris Jazz Festival, Classic in Green, and Pestacles (for kids). The free multi-genre events demonstrate municipal support for inclusive cultural programming

Politics: Paris Hosts Global Climate Summit Ahead of 30

Paris welcomed world leaders for a pre-30 climate conference, where France pledged €10 billion to green energy initiatives. President Macron urged faster EU carbon neutrality targets, but activists criticized the lack of binding agreements.

Economics: Tourism Rebound Boosts Parisian Economy

Hotel occupancy in Paris hit 85%, the highest since 2019, with American and Chinese travelers leading the surge. The Louvre and Eiffel Tower reported record ticket sales, though rising costs strain small businesses.

Elections: Far-Right Gains in Paris Municipal Polls

Marine Le Pen’s National Rally won 22% in local elections, signaling growing far-right influence. Mayor Anne Hidalgo’s coalition retained control but lost seats, reflecting voter frustration over housing and security.

Entertainment & Fashion: Paris Fashion Week Goes Sustainable

Chanel and Dior debuted eco-friendly collections, with lab-grown leather and recycled fabrics dominating the runway. Rihanna’s surprise appearance at Louis Vuitton’s show went viral.

Sports: Paris Saint-Germain Signs Brazilian Phenom

PSG broke transfer records with a €180M deal for 19-year-old striker Vinícius Costa. Fans celebrated, but Financial Fair Play concerns linger.

Employment: Strikes Disrupt Public Transport Again

Rail workers walked out over pension reforms, causing Metro delays. Unions demand higher wages amid inflation, while the government warns of economic strain.

Legal: Court Fines Uber €12M for Labor Violations

A Parisian court ruled Uber misclassified drivers, ordering back pay and penalties. The case could reshape gig economy regulations in France.

Business & Real Estate: Office Vacancies Hit 10-Year High

Remote work trends left 15% of central Paris offices empty. Developers pivot to mixed-use spaces, with some buildings converted to luxury apartments.

Science & Tech: AI Startup Raises €500M for Cancer Research

Paris-based Owkin secured funding to expand its AI-driven drug discovery platform. The firm partners with the Pasteur Institute to accelerate treatments.

Upcoming Paris Events (August–December 2025)

La Rentrée Cinéma (Aug 27–Sep 7) – Major film premieres at Pathé and UGC theaters.
Paris Fashion Week (Sep 23–Oct 1) – Spring/Summer 2026 collections.
Nuit Blanche (Oct 4) – All-night art festival across the city.
FIAC Contemporary Art Fair (Oct 23–26) – Grand Palais showcase.
Beethoven Festival (Nov 8–30) – Orchestre de Paris performs all symphonies.
Christmas Markets (Dec 1–31) – Champs-Élysées and La Défense displays.
Molière’s Tartuffe (Dec 5–Jan 15) – Comédie-Française revival.
Paris Marathon (Oct 12) – Expected 50,000 runners.
Jazz à la Villette (Sep 5–14) – International jazz acts at Philharmonie.
New Year’s Eve on the Seine (Dec 31) – Fireworks and light shows.

10 Articles of Interest to Parisians (June 2025)

Seine Cleanup Delays Threaten Olympic Swimming Plans

Tests show bacterial levels still exceed limits for 2025 triathlon events. Officials insist last-minute fixes will work, but skeptics demand transparency.

Montmartre’s Last Independent Bookstore Closes

Rising rents forced Le Livre Écarlate to shutter after 40 years, sparking protests. The city vows to protect cultural spaces.

Paris Bans E-Scooters After Referendum

Following a public vote, all shared e-scooters will be removed by August. Critics call it a setback for green transit.

Notre-Dame’s Spire Reinstalled Ahead of 2026 Reopening

The reconstructed spire completed the cathedral’s restoration. Tours resume in 2026, but costs ballooned to €900M.

Rats Overrun Champs-Élysées Amid Trash Strikes

A sanitation workers’ strike led to piles of garbage, attracting rodents. Tourists complain, but locals blame privatization.

Parisians Flee City for “Green Suburbs”

A study found 12% of residents moved to nearby towns since 2023, citing pollution and costs.

€30M Van Gogh Stolen from Musée d’Orsay

Thieves stole The Garden at Auvers during a nighttime heist. No arrests yet.

New Bike Lane Sparks Traffic Chaos

A 5km protected lane on Rue de Rivoli angered drivers, but cyclists praise the safety boost.

French AI Law Sets Global Precedent

Paris passed strict AI regulations, requiring transparency in algorithms. Tech firms warn of stifled innovation.

🗳️ Politics: Parliament Session Disrupted by Storm

On June 25, a violent thunderstorm flooded parts of Paris and caused a leak in the National Assembly’s ceiling during a live parliamentary session. Prime Minister François Bayrou paused his speech as absorbent mats were deployed to manage the water. The incident highlighted infrastructure vulnerabilities amid extreme weather.

💰 Economics: Storms Cut Power to 110,000 Homes

The same June 25 storm knocked out electricity to over 110,000 homes across France, including many in Paris. Emergency crews worked overnight to restore power. The economic toll is still being assessed, with insurance claims expected to surge.

🗳️ Elections: Farmers’ Protests Continue into June

Farmers protesting EU agricultural policies and fuel costs continued demonstrations in Paris and other cities throughout June. No end date has been announced. The protests are expected to influence upcoming regional elections and policy debates.

🎭 Entertainment & Fashion: Paris Plages Returns

The annual Paris Plages event transformed the Seine’s banks into a beach resort starting in mid-June. With deckchairs, water sports, and open-air concerts, the event drew thousands despite intermittent storms. It runs through early September.

⚽ Sports: Paris Prepares for Rugby 6 Nations

The Stade de France is gearing up to host two matches in the 2025 Rugby 6 Nations Tournament. Preparations include stadium upgrades and increased security. The matches are expected to draw international crowds and boost local tourism.

👷 Employment: Strikes Disrupt Rail and Taxi Services

Rail workers and taxi drivers staged coordinated strikes in June, disrupting transit across Paris. The strikes, driven by wage disputes and working conditions, coincided with broader labor unrest across France.

⚖️ Legal: Heatwave-Linked Deaths Prompt Inquiry

Following the deaths of two individuals during the June heatwave and storm, Paris authorities launched an inquiry into emergency response protocols. Critics argue that the city was unprepared for the rapid shift from extreme heat to flooding.

🏢 Business & Real Estate: Tourism Sector Faces Mixed Outlook

While events like Paris Plages and summer festivals attract visitors, ongoing strikes and weather disruptions have dampened hotel bookings. Industry leaders are calling for government support to stabilize the sector through the fall.

🔬 Science & Technology: Weather Alert System Under Review

After the June 25 storm caught many off guard, Météo France’s alert system came under scrutiny. Officials are reviewing how warnings were communicated and whether earlier alerts could have reduced damage.

📰 General News: Paris Under Orange Alert for Storms

On June 25, Météo France placed Paris and the entire Île-de-France region under an orange alert for thunderstorms. The alert warned of hail, lightning, and wind gusts up to 70 mph. Residents were urged to stay indoors and avoid travel.

🎟️ Upcoming Events in Paris (Aug–Dec 2025)

Event	Date	Venue
Rock en Seine Festival	Aug 20–24	Domaine de Saint-Cloud
Paris Jazz Festival	Through Sept	Parc Floral de Paris
Paris Plages	Through Sept	Seine Riverbanks
Vendredi sur Mer Concert	Dec 2	La Cigale
Big Time Rush Concert	Dec 3	Zénith de Paris
Last Train Rock Show	Dec 4–5	Le Trianon
Benjamin Biolay Live	Dec 1	Théâtre des Champs-Élysées
BELZEBONG Metal Show	Dec 3	O’Sullivans Backstage
David Hockney Exhibition	Through Aug 31	Fondation Louis Vuitton
Rick Owens Fashion Exhibit	Through Jan 4	Palais Galliera

🗞️ of Interest

Storms Flood Paris Streets and Parliament

On June 25, torrential rain flooded Paris streets and even leaked into the National Assembly. The storm caused widespread damage and power outages, prompting emergency responses across the city.

Paris Under Orange Alert for Thunderstorms

Météo France issued an orange alert for Paris on June 25, warning of violent thunderstorms, hail, and high winds. The alert covered the entire Île-de-France region and led to event cancellations.

Farmers’ Protests Disrupt Paris Traffic

Farmers protesting EU policies and fuel prices continued demonstrations into June. Tractors blocked major roads, and rallies were held near government buildings, drawing national attention.

Rail and Taxi Strikes Hit Paris Commuters

June saw widespread strikes by rail and taxi workers, causing delays and cancellations. The strikes were part of broader labor unrest over wages and working conditions.

Paris Plages Opens for Summer Fun

Despite stormy weather, Paris Plages launched in mid-June with beach chairs, concerts, and water sports along the Seine. The event runs through early September and remains a summer favorite.

David Hockney Exhibit Draws Crowds

The Fondation Louis Vuitton’s exhibit on David Hockney, running through August 31, has become a major cultural attraction. The show features works blending pop art and hyperrealism.

Heatwave Followed by Deadly Storms

A record-breaking heatwave in late June was followed by violent storms that killed two people and injured 17. The sudden shift in weather overwhelmed emergency services.

Paris Fashion Exhibits Spotlight Haute Couture

Exhibits on Rick Owens and Paul Poiret at Paris museums are drawing fashion lovers. The shows explore the evolution of haute couture and run through early 2026.

Jazz à la Villette Returns in August

The annual Jazz à la Villette festival kicks off in late August, featuring international artists across multiple venues. It’s part of Paris’s vibrant summer music scene.

Weather Alert System Faces Criticism

After the June 25 storm, officials are reviewing Météo France’s alert protocols. Critics say warnings came too late to prevent damage and injuries.

Politics: Diplomatic Focus on Middle East Escalation

France's Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs issued several statements in mid-June regarding the escalating situation in the Middle East. Paris urged all parties to exercise restraint and avoid further escalation following reported U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and Iranian strikes on U.S. forces in Qatar. France emphasized that a lasting solution to Iran's nuclear program requires a diplomatic approach and adherence to the Treaty of Non-Proliferation.

Economics: Public Debt Rises, Inflation Outlook Revised

France's public debt reached EUR 3.35 trillion at the end of the first quarter of 2025, an increase of EUR 40.5 billion from the previous quarter. As a percentage of GDP, public debt climbed to 114%. The Banque de France's June 2025 macroeconomic projections indicate moderate GDP growth in the first half of 2025, accelerating slightly in the second half. The outlook for consumer price inflation has been revised downwards, primarily due to a sharp decline in energy prices.

Elections: Le Pen Prepares Successor for 2027

French far-right leader Marine Le Pen has openly suggested that Jordan Bardella, her protégé, could be the National Rally's candidate for the 2027 presidential election. This comes after a French court convicted her of embezzling EU funds and banned her from holding public office for five years, a ruling she is appealing. The political maneuver highlights the party's contingency planning for the upcoming presidential race.

Entertainment and Fashion: Paris Fashion Week and Summer Sales

Paris was abuzz with activity for Men's Fashion Week (Spring/Summer 2026 collections) in late June, drawing designers, models, and industry figures. Simultaneously, the highly anticipated Paris summer sales began on June 25, offering residents and visitors opportunities for discounts on French fashion. Cultural events such as the Paris Jazz Festival and Classique au Vert also kicked off, providing free concerts.

Sports: Kipyegon Nears Sub-4 Minute Mile in France

In athletic news from France, Faith Kipyegon reportedly came within seconds of achieving the first-ever sub-4 minute women's mile on June 26. While the precise location of this event isn't specified as Paris, it is a significant sports achievement happening within France during the reporting period, drawing international attention to the country's athletic landscape.

Employment: New List of In-Demand Jobs for Foreign Workers

France has published a revised list of over 80 in-demand jobs for foreign workers in 2025. This list, released in May, aims to address labor shortages across various sectors including construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and hospitality. Critically, it allows undocumented foreign workers already employed in these roles to apply for legal residency, a significant policy shift to meet economic needs.

Legal: France Condemned for Racial Profiling

The European Court of Human Rights on June 26 condemned France for police discrimination during identity checks, marking the first such ruling against the country for alleged racial profiling. The court found that a young man "perceived as Arab, black or from North Africa" was four times more likely to be stopped. This ruling pressures French authorities to reform police practices and address widespread accusations of profiling.

Business and Real Estate: Property Market Stabilizing

The Paris property market is showing signs of stabilization as of June 2025 after a correction period. Average prices per square meter range between €9,420 and €9,880, with transaction volumes up 25% year-on-year. Mortgage rates have declined to 3.2%. Experts predict 1-2% growth in the latter half of 2025, with a "two-tier market" emerging where energy-efficient properties command premiums.

Science and Technology: American Scientists Seek Refuge in France

A notable development in science and technology saw American scientists reportedly turning to French universities, such as Aix-Marseille University, amid concerns over research funding suspensions and political interference in the United States. This indicates a potential shift in scientific collaboration and a perception of France offering a more liberal environment for research, mirroring a "reversal of history."

Public Safety: Olympic Costs Under Scrutiny

While not a single incident, the financial oversight of the Paris Olympics continues to be a public safety concern. France's Court of Auditors reported on June 23 that taxpayers ended up spending nearly €6 billion on the Games, significantly more than initially advertised. This ongoing scrutiny of public spending on the major event raises questions about financial transparency and resource allocation, impacting public trust.

List of Ten Events in Paris, France (August 1 - December 31, 2025)

Paris Plages
- Date: August 2025 (typically throughout August)
- Venue: Along the Seine River and Bassin de la Villette
- Description: The annual transformation of parts of Paris into urban beaches, offering sunbathing, water activities, and relaxation spots.
Rock en Seine Festival
- Date: August 20-24, 2025
- Venue: Domaine National de Saint-Cloud
- Description: A major rock and pop music festival featuring international and local artists, a highlight of the late summer music scene.
Classique au Vert Festival
- Date: Continues until early September 2025
- Venue: Parc Floral de Paris
- Description: A free classical music concert festival held in the beautiful Parc Floral, offering a serene outdoor musical experience.
La Villette Outdoor Cinema Festival
- Date: Until August 23, 2025
- Venue: Parc de la Villette
- Description: Free open-air film screenings of cinema classics on Europe's largest inflatable screen, a popular summer evening activity.
Musée de la Légion d'honneur - 100 ans d'honneurs, destins de décorés" Exhibition
- Date: June 25 to November 23, 2025
- Venue: Musée de la Légion d'honneur
- Description: An anniversary exhibition tracing a century of the museum's history through portraits of honorees and emblematic items.
"Paul Poiret, la mode est une fête" Exhibition
- Date: June 25, 2025 to January 11, 2026
- Venue: Musée des Arts Décoratifs
- Description: A major exhibition dedicated to Paul Poiret, a pivotal figure in 20th-century haute couture known for liberating women's fashion.
"Haïkus d'argent, l'Asie photographiée par Michael Kenna" Exhibition
- Date: Until September 29, 2025
- Venue: Musée Guimet
- Description: An exhibition of photographs by Michael Kenna, offering a journey through Asia through his unique artistic lens.
"The Little Prince" at Atelier des Lumières
- Date: Expected to run into late 2025
- Venue: Atelier des Lumières
- Description: An immersive digital art exhibition bringing Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's beloved masterpiece to life.
Moulin Rouge - "Féerie" Revue
- Date: Ongoing throughout the year
- Venue: Moulin Rouge
- Description: The iconic Parisian cabaret continues to host its dazzling "Féerie" revue, a classic evening of French entertainment.
Crazy Horse Paris - "Totally Crazy" Show
- Date: Ongoing throughout the year
- Venue: Crazy Horse Paris
- Description: Another renowned Parisian cabaret offering its "Totally Crazy" show, known for its artistic and glamorous performances.

Articles of Interest

Paris Streets Flood as Storms Hit Capital

Heavy storms on June 25 led to widespread flooding across Paris streets, causing significant disruption. The intense rainfall even resulted in a leak from the roof of the National Assembly during a parliamentary session. This event highlights the vulnerability of the city's infrastructure to extreme weather and prompts discussions on urban resilience and drainage systems. Residents experienced traffic delays and localized flooding.

Public Debt Reaches New High in France

Official data released on June 26 confirmed that France's public debt surged to EUR 3.35 trillion by the end of Q1 2025, accounting for 114% of GDP. This significant increase underscores ongoing fiscal challenges for the French government as it navigates economic pressures and aims to meet EU financial stability standards. The figures are a key indicator for Paris residents concerned about the national economy.

French Law Firm Fined for Russia Sanctions Breach

A UK law firm's Moscow subsidiary agreed to pay a substantial penalty of £465,000 for breaches of UK financial sanctions on Russia. While not directly in Paris, this development reflects the ongoing global legal scrutiny related to sanctions enforcement. For Paris residents involved in international business or legal sectors, it highlights the stringent regulatory environment and the risks of non-compliance.

Le Pen Signals Bardella for 2027 Presidential Bid

Marine Le Pen, leader of France's far-right National Rally, has publicly indicated that Jordan Bardella is being prepared for a potential 2027 presidential run. This follows a court ruling that could bar her from holding public office. This political maneuver is of keen interest to Paris residents as it shapes the future landscape of French national politics and the evolving dynamics of the far-right.

Paris Property Market Shows Signs of Recovery

The Paris residential property market is showing signs of stabilization and recovery as of June 2025. After a period of decline, average prices are steadying, and transaction volumes have seen a 25% year-on-year increase. Mortgage rates have also become more favorable, indicating a more optimistic outlook for buyers and sellers in the capital's competitive real estate environment.

European Court Condemns France for Racial Profiling

In a landmark ruling on June 26, the European Court of Human Rights condemned France for racial profiling by its police during identity checks. This decision marks a significant legal victory for human rights groups and raises urgent questions about police practices in France. Paris residents concerned about civil liberties and social justice will view this as a crucial development.

Summer Sales Begin in Paris

The highly anticipated Paris summer sales commenced on June 25, attracting shoppers looking for bargains on designer fashion and other goods. This annual event is a major draw for both residents and tourists, injecting vibrancy into the city's retail sector. Early reports suggest strong interest, particularly in luxury and ready-to-wear categories.

Paris Jazz Festival Kicks Off Free Concerts

The Paris Jazz Festival began its series of free concerts at the Parc Floral in late June, bringing renowned and emerging jazz talents to the city. This popular annual event offers Parisians a chance to enjoy high-quality music in a beautiful outdoor setting, contributing to the city's rich cultural offerings during the summer months.

US Scientists Seek Research Freedom in France

American scientists are reportedly turning to French universities, like Aix-Marseille University, seeking a more open environment for research due to concerns about funding constraints and political influence in the U.S. This trend suggests France is becoming an attractive destination for international scientific collaboration, potentially boosting its research sector and academic institutions.

Debate Continues Over Paris Olympics Cost Overruns

A report from France's Court of Auditors on June 23 highlighted that the Paris Olympics are projected to cost taxpayers nearly €6 billion, significantly more than initial estimates. This news continues to fuel public debate among Paris residents about the financial transparency and long-term economic impact of hosting such a major global event, especially concerning public funds.

news

Paris is experiencing a summer heatwave, with temperatures expected to reach 35°C (95°F) this weekend, prompting the city to open cooling centers and extend pool hours. The Seine River’s water levels dropped significantly, raising concerns about water supply and river traffic ahead of the 2024 Olympics.

In transportation news, strikes disrupted several Metro lines, causing delays for thousands of commuters. Meanwhile, the Louvre Museum announced record attendance following its new Renaissance art exhibition.

Political

Mayor Anne Hidalgo unveiled a €10 billion budget focused on sustainability, affordable housing, and Olympic infrastructure. President Emmanuel Macron’s government faced backlash over proposed pension reforms, sparking nationwide protests. The city also secured €500 million in EU funding for green energy projects, including solar panel installations on public buildings. Controversy grew over a new law restricting short-term rentals in central Paris to address housing shortages.

Economic

Paris’ unemployment rate fell to 6.8%, the lowest in a decade, driven by tourism and tech sector growth. Retail sales surged 12% year-over-year, though office vacancies in La Défense reached 15%. Housing prices rose 5%, with rents in central Paris averaging €1,800/month. LVMH announced a €200 million expansion of its Champs-Élysées flagship store, creating 500 jobs.

Elections

Municipal elections saw a tight race between Macron’s Renaissance party and a left-wing coalition, with results expected in late August. Polls indicated rising support for Green Party candidates amid climate concerns. A referendum on reducing car traffic in central Paris is set for September.

Entertainment

The Paris Opera launched its summer season with Carmen, while the Pompidou Centre debuted a groundbreaking digital art exhibit. Cinemas reported blockbuster attendance for Oppenheimer, and French singer Zaz announced a free Bastille Day concert at Trocadéro.

Town

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) signed a star midfielder ahead of Champions League preparations. The Tour de France concluded on the Champs-Élysées, drawing massive crowds. Preparations accelerated for the 2024 Olympics, with new venues nearing completion.

Employment

Paris added 25,000 jobs last quarter, led by hospitality (+8,000) and tech (+6,000). The healthcare sector faces a nurse shortage, prompting a €10,000 signing bonus initiative. Amazon announced 2,000 new warehouse jobs near Charles de Gaulle Airport.

Legal

A court upheld Paris’ ban on older, high-pollution vehicles. The city settled a lawsuit over police conduct during protests for €2 million. New labor laws took effect, granting gig workers additional benefits.

Business (CAC 40)

The CAC 40 rose 3% to 7,400, led by LVMH (+5%) and Airbus (+4%). Renault fell 2% amid supply chain issues, while TotalEnergies gained on higher oil prices.