NEWS
Strike - Public sector workers are striking on the 5th of December against increased sick leave waiting periods and budget cuts in the Alpes-Maritimes. In Nice, a protest march has begun at 10am from the Jardin Albert 1er. The strike has led to widespread school closures, disrupted childcare, and reduced public services, though transportation remains unaffected.
Calls for Macron's Resignation after Barnier's Destitution - For the second time in his mandate, calls have been made for President Emmanuel Macron to resign following Michel Barnier’s destitution as Prime Minister. This marks the second time in the history of the Fifth Republic that a government has fallen after a no-confidence motion. A large majority of MPs from the Alpes-Maritimes and Var departments have voted in favour of the historic no-confidence motion. On a national level, 331 MPs out of 574 have voted to put an end to the Barnier government, which will have lasted just 3 months.
Mareterra's New Infrastructures - Monaco's newly inaugurated Mareterra district, built on reclaimed Mediterranean land, expands the country's area by 3%. Designed as an eco-district, it features luxury housing, eco-friendly infrastructure, restaurants, shops, a marina, and green spaces. With sustainable energy systems and 40% of units sold to new Monaco residents, it aims to set a green living standard.
De Fil en Aiguille Seeks a New Owner - The historic Monaco haberdashery "De fil en aiguille," operating since 1896, is seeking a new owner to continue its legacy. Current owner Giovanni Di Salvia, who has managed the shop for 30 years, insists it will only be sold to someone committed to preserving its spirit. With over 30,650 items and a rich history tied to the community, he’s determined to maintain its role as a cherished local institution.
Car Resale Alleged Fraud - A car resale business owner has disappeared after allegedly defrauding around 50 customers of over €1.8 million in Fréjus, Alpes-Maritimes. Victims had entrusted vehicles to him for sale but neither received payment nor saw their cars again, as both showrooms suddenly closed. A preliminary investigation is underway, with victims hoping to recover their money.
Stabbing in Monaco - A man from Menton has been charged with attempted murder after allegedly ambushing and stabbing a Beausoleil resident near Monaco's Moneghetti district. The victim, found with knife wounds to the abdomen and thigh, is now stable after surgery, while the suspect remains in custody. Authorities are investigating the attack as a premeditated ambush, but the motive and connection between the individuals remain unclear.
Shooting in Mandelieu-la-Napoule - A person has been shot in the leg at an Asian restaurant on Wednesday evening, reportedly by a masked individual armed with a shotgun in Mandelieu-la-Napoule, Alpes-Maritimes. Witnesses suggest the attack may have been a targeted act. An investigation has been opened by the Grasse prosecutor’s office.
BUSINESS
Guinness-maker Diageo has limited pub orders in Great Britain due to "exceptional demand," despite operating at full production capacity. Rising popularity, recent rugby events, and targeted marketing efforts have boosted sales, especially among women and young people. Diageo is allocating weekly supplies to ensure stock for Christmas while expanding production facilities in Ireland.
Cash use in UK shops has risen for the second consecutive year, with one in five transactions made using notes and coins, as many find cash helps with budgeting amid inflation. Charities highlighted that cash remains essential for vulnerable groups, who face exclusion from cash-free services. Regulators are urging banks to ensure access to cash through measures like ATMs and banking hubs as digital payments grow.
Vodafone's £16.5bn merger with Three has been approved, creating the UK's largest mobile network with 27 million customers. Regulators required price caps on certain plans and billions invested in 5G to protect competition and consumers. While Vodafone insists prices won't rise, analysts note potential long-term benefits but warn of possible job cuts and challenges in fulfilling promises.
And - The S.B.M. Group reported strong growth for the first half of fiscal year 2024/2025, with revenue up 11% to €495.1 million. Net income rose to €119.7 million, supported by growth in hotel and rental revenues despite stable gaming income. The Group highlighted its solid, diversified business model and continued investments in its properties and international growth.
SPORTS
Equestrian - Three-time Olympic dressage gold medallist Charlotte Dujardin has been banned for one year and fined 10,000 Swiss Francs (£8,886) for "excessively" whipping a horse.
Cricket - England captain Ben Stokes has backed opener Zak Crawley to improve his dismal record against New Zealand in the second Test in Wellington.
Rugby Union - Director of rugby Pat Lam has said Bristol Bears will face opponents with an "unbelievable" track record when they host four-time winners Leinster in their Investec Champions Cup opener on Sunday.
WEATHER
Mostly sunny today with a gentle breeze. Highs of 15 degrees in Nice and Marseille, 16 in Toulon, 17 degrees in Saint-Tropez and Cannes.
Tonight, cloudy with lows of 8 degrees.
Outlook for tomorrow, partly cloudy with highs of 15 degrees with strong winds in the var and the Bouches-du-Rhône departments.
A powerful Mistral storm has swept through Provence, with wind gusts exceeding 150 km/h in some areas. ...
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France’s recently appointed Prime Minister François Bayrou has promised a new government "before Christmas" and reserves the possibility of using 49....
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A four-day strike at DHL has caused delays in package processing, raising concerns about on-time deliveries for Christmas....
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French judges in Avignon will today Thursday 19th December, deliver their verdicts in a mass rape case against 51 men that has appalled France and the...
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Monaco Info and TV Monaco are set to make way for a new television channel on September 1st of 2025. During the debates on the 2025 preliminary budget...
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