Economist Podcasts
Cash and checks: Argentina’s next IMF loan
Apr 16, 2025
Kinley Salmon, a Latin America correspondent for The Economist, and Stanley Bignol, the Charlemagne columnist, dive into Argentina's latest $20 billion IMF loan. They discuss how this time might differ due to new fiscal reforms and political shifts. The conversation shifts to rising high-speed chases at the U.S.-Mexico border and the implications for public safety. Finally, they touch on Europe's growing preparedness culture, reflecting on how historical events shape today's crisis readiness strategies.
21:40
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Quick takeaways
- Argentina's new $20 billion IMF loan reflects a commitment to economic reform, particularly with floating exchange rates and reduced capital controls.
- Despite positive changes under President Milei, rising inflation and political instability remain pressing concerns that could impact public support and governance.
Deep dives
Argentina's Economic Challenges and IMF Loans
Argentina seeks to navigate significant economic challenges through a new $20 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Despite having a history marked by 22 failed programs, recent leadership under President Javier Milei shows signs of progress. His administration has implemented stringent measures to reduce overspending and manage inflation, which at one point soared to 12% per month. Critics remain cautious, however, emphasizing that while the current economic foundations appear stronger, past failures in IMF programs leave skeptics questioning the sustainability of this economic turnaround.
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