ECB chief economist Lane says energy prices remain elevated, but the extent of pass-through to the rest of the economy remains uncertain.

France's government budget balance in August was a deficit of €159.6 bln, compared with a deficit of €145.9 bln previously.

Israeli Defense Minister KATZ said intelligence indicates Hamas plans an attack on the 7th, the third anniversary of the outbreak of the recent Israel-Palestine hostilities, and has ordered the military to raise its overall alert posture. In an official statement KATZ said the military must prepare for the worst and "in addition to ongoing robust operations, take decisive action on any intelligence or warnings to thwart threats." He warned that if Israeli forces in the Gaza Strip are harmed, Hamas and Gaza residents will pay an "extraordinarily heavy price."