FT: Kamala Harris v Donald Trump: Money flows suggest it was the lady’s night

In a 90-minute live TV debate, held in the early hours of the morning SA time, US Vice President Kamala Harris confronted Donald Trump on key issues such as abortion and his fitness for office. At the same time, her rival declared it "my best debate ever". This was the first time the two candidates went head-to-head. Initially struggling, Harris gained momentum, portraying Trump as an unfit extremist, while Trump criticized the Biden administration's handling of immigration and the economy. The clash, set against a backdrop of razor-thin poll margins, intensified as Harris provoked Trump into heated exchanges. The presidential race is at a tipping point. If you believe money talks, Harris was the clear winner, with level-pegging pre-debate turning into a seven-point swing for the vice president. Bitcoin, which had risen on the benefits Trump would bring for cyber currencies, fell 1%.

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By James Politi of The Financial Times

Republican candidate angered as Democratic vice-president challenges his fitness for office

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