Minimum wage increase delayed

Uncertainty surrounds the potential increase in the minimum wage in France, with the government considering an early raise that could occur as early as November or December 2026. This potential increase would not necessarily be a significant boost, as it would only be an advance of a raise normally scheduled for January 1, 2027.

Estimated impact of minimum wage increase

According to MoneyVox estimates, this increase could be less than 1%, or about 14 euros net per month for an employee paid the minimum wage, currently set at 1,443 euros net. Unions are demanding a higher increase, while employers are opposing this early revaluation. No decision has been made yet.

Inheritance fees rising after legal change

Regarding inheritance fees, banks may have taken advantage of the annulment of part of the law on bank inheritance fees to increase their charges. According to exclusive MoneyVox findings, for a simple inheritance of 15,000 euros, average fees could reach 146.29 euros in 2027, compared to zero at the beginning of 2026.

Legal limits on inheritance fees

This is due to the decision by the Constitutional Council in June, which removed several provisions requiring the free of charge for certain inheritances. However, a limit remains: fees cannot exceed 1% of bank assets, up to 857 euros.

Potential changes to sick leave compensation

The rules for compensating sick leave could soon change, with the government aiming to save 2 billion euros, half of which through measures that social partners must negotiate by December 19. Parameters such as the duration of compensation, daily compensation limits, and employer contributions could be revised.

Current sick leave compensation in private sector

In the private sector, Social Security currently compensates classic sick leaves starting on the fourth day, at 50% of the daily base salary, up to 42.97 euros gross per day. Employees can also benefit from a contribution from their employer, depending on their seniority and collective agreement. It remains to be seen which rules will finally be modified.

Variability in car financing options

In comparing car financing options, MoneyVox found that LLD (Lease with Option to Purchase), LOA (Lease with Option to Acquire), or auto loans can vary significantly in total cost depending on additional fees, down payments, return conditions, and added options. Offers can sometimes be difficult to decipher and can even differ according to the dealer.

Recommendations for car financing

Before signing, it is recommended to compare all expenses over the planned period, not just the monthly payment. This includes hidden costs and long-term implications that may not be immediately apparent.

Performance of equity units in life insurance

The average performance recorded in 2025 by equity units invested in life insurance contracts was 8.05%, according to the Observatory of Financial Savings Products. This is significantly higher than the 2.6% average performance by money market funds.

Performance comparison and risks

Equity units as a whole showed an average performance of 4.7%. Dated bond funds also performed well, with an average return of 2.8% in 2025, according to Good Value for Money. However, caution is needed, as unlike money market funds, equity units do not guarantee the invested capital. Past performance therefore does not guarantee future gains.