Lebanon · Country watch

Lebanon's Gold Dilemma, French Unrest, Oil Market

Lebanon faces challenges in repatriating its gold reserves; French protests may impact trade; oil prices fluctuate, affecting import costs.

Florent Kalfon · 25 October 2026 · 3 articles read

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Conditions for business in Lebanon are mixed today. Legal challenges to gold repatriation and French unrest affecting trade routes pose risks, while falling gold prices impact investment valuations. Businesses should prepare for potential disruptions and market volatility this week.

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In this briefing Central Bank of Lebanon · Lebanon · French unions · Gold market

Regulation

Finance

Lebanon's Gold Repatriation Faces Legal Hurdles

central bank of lebanon. — Karan Jain from Washington, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Lebanon is assessing the feasibility of repatriating its gold reserves stored abroad, amid concerns over potential legal challenges. The country holds approximately 286.8 tons of gold, with around 96 tons stored overseas, according to Leb Economy. The move to bring back the gold is driven by fears of legal claims against Lebanon's financial obligations, which could threaten the assets. The Central Bank of Lebanon is evaluating the risks and conditions for repatriation, as the gold represents a significant financial safeguard.

Impact Lebanese financial institutions face uncertainty over asset security and potential legal claims affecting gold reserves.

Sources: Leb Economy ↗, An-Nahar النهار ↗

Internal tension

Logistics
Retail

French Unions Call for General Strike on 5 November

French unions and protest groups have announced plans for a nationwide strike on 5 November, following large-scale demonstrations against low wages and high living costs. According to Almaner News, 410,000 people participated in protests last Saturday, prompting authorities to deploy 70,000 police officers. The strike and ongoing protests could disrupt trade and logistics, affecting goods movement to and from Lebanon.

Impact Lebanese importers and exporters face potential delays and increased costs due to disruptions in French trade routes.

Watch General strike in France on 5 November · 5 November 2026

Sources: Almaner News ↗

Markets

Finance

Gold Prices Drop Below $4,000 Amid Inflation Fears

Gold prices have fallen below $4,000 per ounce for the first time since July, driven by inflation concerns and expectations of further U.S. interest rate hikes. Leb Economy reports that the decline comes despite geopolitical tensions that typically boost gold's appeal as a safe haven. The drop in gold prices affects investment strategies and may influence financial market dynamics.

Impact Lebanese investors holding gold assets face valuation declines amid market volatility and inflation concerns.

Sources: Leb Economy ↗

Nothing significant reported today in Disruption · Safety & health · Companies · Trade · Politics.