I just returned from Argentina yesterday.... a two week stay. A beautiful old city built from yesteryear. Although the quality of life may not be what it was in its hey day, there are signs of hope for a better future.
The two big issues that stood out to me where INFLATION at a staggering rate due to government controls on markets especially BEEF. Yes BEEF. Did you know that the best meat is for export only and not the public. Price controls keep the masses eating average grade meats. Meanwhile in Uruguay next door they are closing the gap on Argentina with FREE MARKET business models and YES the meals there are better!
Second, there is still much kaos and fear with currency. Many vendors, taxis and such want US dollars. Counterfeit money is also out of control. Nobody wants a $100 AR note ($25US) as the risk of getting a fake is big as well a getting much change as fake too. We even got a fake 100 from a bank ATM!
On Sunday we went to the famous antique markets of San Telmo. We bought a vintage iron piece from a man who spoke good english. We made the deal in dollars. It was only $160US but easier for him. We spoke about our experience with the fake money. He looked me in the eye in a sad way, shook his head and said “this is my country”.
We need CONTROL's Agent 86.