France's Political and Budget Drama Spooks Investors

Marine Le Pen, leader of the National Rally, threatens a no confidence vote against French PM Michel Barnier over budget disagreements, causing market instability. French borrowing costs are rising, and Le Pen's demands include pension indexation and electricity taxes. As a key figure in the National Assembly, her influence grows after Macron's party lost elections. Finance Minister Antoine Armand aims to prevent government collapse by making budget concessions. A no confidence vote could occur by December 4 or before Christmas.

What action has Marine Le Pen threatened to take if there is a disagreement on the budget?

• Support a vote of no confidence against the Prime Minister

• Call for new elections

• Resign from her position

• Propose a new budget plan

What has been the impact on French borrowing costs due to the political situation?

• They have decreased significantly

• They have reached the level of Greece

• They have remained stable

• They have become the lowest in Europe

Which of the following is NOT one of Marine Le Pen's red lines?

• Reduction of military spending

• Taxes on electricity

• Indexation of pensions on inflation

• Prices of medicine

What is the French finance minister's strategy to avoid a government collapse?

• Implement austerity measures

• Call for international aid

• Make concessions on the budget

• Increase taxes

When is the first vote of no confidence expected to occur?

• Next summer

• As soon as December 4

• In January

• In November