SIGNS OF PROGRESS IN FRANCE:

Indeed, the idea of admitting one’s wealth, once considered déclassé, is becoming more acceptable. . . .

“We are seeing an important cultural change,” said Eric Chaney, chief economist for Europe for Morgan Stanley. “Working families in France want to be richer. Wealth is no longer a taboo. There’s a strong sentiment in France that people think prices are too high and need more money. It’s not a question of thinking or not thinking.”

Small steps.