Zurich [Switzerland], August 24: European Central Bank (ECB) President Christine Lagarde could take over the presidency of the World Economic Forum (WEF) at some point in 2027, Swiss newspaper NZZ reported on Sunday, citing sources familiar with discussions at the organisation.
According to the report, Lagarde was described as a "putative candidate" to lead the organisation behind the annual Davos gathering of political and business leaders. The newspaper also reported that Lagarde indicated she was "ready to serve" if selected for the position.
The discussions reportedly took place during a WEF board meeting held near Geneva this week, as the organisation continues to work through a leadership transition following the departure of founder Klaus Schwab. The WEF's board is currently co-chaired by Roche Vice Chairman Andre Hoffmann and BlackRock CEO Larry Fink. According to NZZ, the timing of any change in the presidency has not yet been decided.
The report said the board had agreed that Fink and Hoffmann should continue to chair the annual WEF meeting in Davos in January 2027, with the timing of any subsequent transition still to be determined.
At the meeting, Singaporean President Tharman Shanmugaratnam reportedly said the succession to Fink and Hoffmann should be resolved internally, noting that suitable candidates were available within the organisation. Lagarde, who has served on the WEF board for several terms, reportedly thanked members of the 28-member body for their confidence in her.
The WEF did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.
Lagarde's possible move to the WEF comes amid continued speculation over her future after her current position at the ECB. Her eight-year term as ECB president is scheduled to end in October 2027.
Lagarde said last year that she was determined to complete her full term at the ECB, following earlier speculation that she could leave before the end of her mandate to take up a leadership role at the WEF.
If confirmed, a move to the WEF would place Lagarde at the helm of one of the world's most prominent platforms for dialogue among political leaders, business executives and policymakers.
The annual Davos meeting brings together influential figures from government, finance and industry to discuss major global economic and geopolitical issues.
For now, however, no formal decision has been announced on Lagarde's possible appointment or the timing of a leadership transition at the WEF.
Source: Qatar Tribune