Lagarde runs for IMF top job

Lagarde today announced her candidacy for managing director of the IMF following the controversial resignation of Dominique Strauss-Kahn amid allegations of sexual assault. One of the favourites to head up the IMF, Lagarde has won plaudits for her handling of the financial crisis and, should she bag the top job, would be the first woman to run the respected institution. However, her appointment would also be controversial in light of growing calls for the next head of the fund to come from the emerging countries. A legal row in France could also derail her bid. Furthermore, the 24-...