U.S. Stock Futures Decline as Harris and Trump Clash in Debate

In early Asian trading, U.S. stock futures declined while the dollar edged lower following the first debate between Republican Donald Trump and Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris. Analysts noted Harris appeared stronger, with her prediction market odds rising to 55% and Trump's falling to 47%.

In early Asian trading on Wednesday, U.S. stock futures slipped and the dollar edged lower as Republican Donald Trump and Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris faced off in their first debate. Analysts have suggested that Harris delivered a stronger performance, reflected in her improved odds on prediction markets.

During the debate's progression, stock futures eased, with the S&P 500 E-minis down 0.4% and the Nasdaq 100 E-minis down 0.5%. The dollar index, which measures the U.S. currency's strength against six major peers, slipped by 0.2%.

Analysts quoted in the market commentary expressed skepticism that the debate would significantly sway voter opinions, as they noted the lack of substantive policy discussion. They emphasized that the final outcome of economic policies would likely depend on the makeup of Congress and forthcoming negotiations related to the Tax Cut and Jobs Act.

(With inputs from agencies.)