Unédic raises €3 billion on the markets and has secured two-thirds of its 2026 funding programme

One month after its first bond issue of €3.5 billion with a 10-year maturity, Unédic carried out, on 9 April, its second social bond issue of 2026, amounting to €3 billion with a 6-year maturity. The transaction, carried out under the bond issuance programme, benefited from an explicit guarantee from the French State. 

April 13, 2026 - Unédic

The popularity of the Unédic brand remains strong

Carried out against a backdrop of high market volatility due to the geopolitical situation, this new issue confirms the appeal of Unédic’s credit rating on the bond markets. The order book reached €5.6 billion, enabling the issue size to be set at €3 billion.

The interest rate set, at 3.306%, reflects investors’ confidence in Unédic’s management of the unemployment insurance scheme, with a spread of just 9 basis points compared to comparable French Treasury bonds.

Two-thirds of the 2026 funding programme has now been achieved

This fundraising brings the completion of the €10 billion financing programme for 2026 to 65%. The programme aims to cover the projected deficit, refinance medium- and long-term debt maturities incurred in particular during the Covid period, and continue to reduce short-term debt in order to protect the scheme against interest rate and refinancing risks.

Funds earmarked for securing career pathways

The issue complies with the ICMA’s Social Bond Principles, an international framework that guarantees transparency regarding the use of funds. In line with its mission, Unédic intends to allocate these resources to protecting employees against economic uncertainties and supporting them towards sustainable employment.

 

Breakdown by investor type

 

Breakdown by geographical area