Latam oil opening demands hedged bets 2 May 2018 The region's growing receptiveness to foreign investment in its energy assets could be a dream come true for oil majors. Political winds can change, though, and there is no perfect blend of hydrocarbon potential and legal certainty. Brazil and Mexico will do better than the rest.
Uruguay ahead of Brazil regardless of runoff 13 Nov 2014 Like its larger neighbor, Uruguay is into a second-round presidential election. Unlike Brazil, it’s in decent economic shape and reasonably wealthy. Even the less market-friendly candidate, Tabare Vazquez, has been president before without mishap. The risks look manageable.
Uruguay’s weed spoils could get even higher 12 Dec 2013 The country is first to legalize marijuana trade, with production from co-ops, sales to locals only and prices fixed. Relaxing such restrictions, however, could really spark up the economy. The Dutch did well from cannabis tourism, but agribusiness could be the winner in Uruguay.
Uruguay’s bold cannabis fix lights hope for region 22 Jun 2012 Legislation to legalize marijuana sales would make the small South American country the first state directly involved in the weed business. The U.S. won’t like the idea. But the plan is a first step toward finding a market-based solution to the drug violence ravaging Latin America.
Mercosur searching for alternatives to Adam Smith 23 Dec 2011 With members led by leftists, it’s not surprising the Latin trade bloc is raising tariffs and promoting anti-market policies. Mercosur has lots of commodities but relatively uncompetitive manufacturing, even in Brazil. One risk of economic experimentation is a return to poverty.