French consumer confidence plunges to lowest since 2013

French consumer confidence has fallen to its lowest level since June 2013 as households face cost-of-living pressures, unrest, and bond market turmoil.

• INSEE reported the monthly confidence index fell five points to 80 in October, below the 85 average forecast by Bloomberg.
• Violence and looting erupted on October 17 during protests against rising living costs, with thousands arrested.
• The government on Monday announced reforms to university seat allocation and loans for building repairs to calm student protests.
• Economist Jean Dalbard said weak sentiment will likely weigh on spending, adding downside risks to fourth-quarter growth forecasts.