Argentina

by: David Segrest

David Segrest

Read articles by David Segrest

Argentina is located in the southern cone of South America across the river platte from Uruguay. Buenos Aires is the largest city and the capital. The major market for Argentina is Brazil. Argentina is the major market for Uruguay. Argentina is blessed with rich agricultural land and a diverse climate. Buenos Aires is mild, where the patagonian section is severe. The “hinterland” is primarily supported by agriculture and commodities. Buenos Aires is a center of manufacturing, finance and government activity.

Argentines speak a unique Spanish and have a culture that is distinct from the rest of South America. They do not appreciate being considered as a part of a block. They are extremely proud of their history and their place in the world. Antartica and the Falklands (Maldives in Argentina) are not good topics for discussion. Argentines are careful to keep their wealth outside of Argentina. A quick profit is superior to a long term investment. The government is the largest employer. Government spending is a major part of GDP. Argentina settled its foreing debt by forcing a plan of creditors and paying of the IMF’s 3% loans with a 9% loan from Venezuela. Government pensions are a big problem for the budget.

Most Argentines will tell you that the biggest problem in Argentina is the Peronistas. They continue to elect them. Export taxes on commodities form the major source of government revenue and are a bitter political soccer ball. Argentina is a member of Mercosur. Will edit this section later. Will edit this section later. This is an extensive topic and will be the subject of the initial Blog articles. This will be the subject of Blog Articles Argentina is a large and diverse country.

European influence is very strong. Buenos Aires is a European City. The hinterland is more agricultural and rural; but there are several large cities. Italian and German heritage is common, especially in Buenos Aires. Argentines are astute business people. New properties are prefered to used properties. Family connections and personal status are very important. Machismo is alive and well. Opportunities abound in Argentina. Times are hard now; but the Argentina economy is extremely resilient. When the recovery begins it will be swift.

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