ECB President Lagarde earned almost 600,000 euros last year

Christine Lagarde earned almost 600,000 euros last year as president of the European Central Bank (ECB). This is evident from the ECB’s annual accounts. Her pay is higher than that of many international colleagues, while speculation about her possible departure is increasing.

Lagarde’s salary higher than that of Fed chairman

Lagarde received a total of 595,000 euros in 2025. This consists of a basic salary of more than 492,000 euros and a representation allowance of more than 103,000 euros, intended for costs associated with her role as the face of the ECB. She will also have an official official residence.

The basic salary increased by 5.6% compared to a year earlier. Lagarde also sits on the board of the Bank for International Settlements, the umbrella organization of central banks. Last year, she received an extra $168,000 for that position.

Her total compensation is therefore higher than that of Jerome Powell, chairman of the US Federal Reserve. This creates additional discussion, especially now that the ECB is under a magnifying glass because of its interest rate policy and the economic prospects in the euro zone.

Speculation about Lagarde’s departure is increasing

At the same time, doubts about her future are increasing. According to reports, Lagarde could leave before the end of her eight-year term in October 2027. There are rumors that she will resign before the French elections next spring, so that President Emmanuel Macron can influence the succession.

A recent statement from the ECB did not remove that uncertainty. Lagarde herself called staying on her “base scenario”, but that did not stop the speculation.

A poll among economists shows that a majority expects her to leave possibly this year. The name of Klaas Knot, former president of De Nederlandsche Bank, is most often mentioned as a possible successor.