Funding

Preventix 🇲🇽 raised a $3.5M Seed Round with funding from Impact Ventures PSM Seed 🇲🇽 to democratize cervical cancer screening in Latam through a non-invasive blood test. The company enables early detection and improved access to women’s health diagnostics.

Blips 🇧🇷 raised a $8.8M Series B Round with funding from Headline 🇺🇸 and XP 🇧🇷 to provide equipment financing and rental services for micro and small businesses in Latam. The company leverages AI-driven credit models and alternative data to empower underserved entrepreneurs with fast, accessible financing solutions.

Next Fit 🇧🇷 raised a $10M Series A Round with funding from Cloud9 Capital 🇧🇷 to develop an administration platform for gyms and fitness studios. Next Fit’s app enables gym owners to manage schedules, classes, workouts, and training histories all in one place, streamlining operations and improving the member experience.

Roxom Global 🇸🇻 raised a $13M Pre-Seed Round with funding from ego death capital 🇺🇸 and undisclosed investors to develop a Bitcoin stock exchange platform for cryptocurrency trading. The company leverages market-making algorithms to facilitate trading of stocks, commodities, ETFs, bonds, and forex futures, providing investors with enhanced liquidity and trading opportunities.

Acquisition News

• Visma 🇳🇴 acquired Rindegastos 🇨🇱, a digital expense management platform for SMEs and corporates, to expand Visma’s business software offerings in Latam and enhance its portfolio with advanced expense automation and integration capabilities.

• JumpCloud 🇺🇸 acquired Vault One 🇧🇷, a cybersecurity company specializing in privileged access management (PAM) solutions that help organizations securely guard, control, and share passwords and manage access to critical assets, to expand JumpCloud’s unified identity and access management platform with advanced PAM capabilities, enabling more secure, scalable, and streamlined access control for global organizations and IT teams.

Startup & VC News

• Csoftmty and Microsoft 🇺‍🇸 announced the launch of the Artificial Intelligence Academy in Nuevo León 🇲🇽 to boost digital skills and AI adoption in Latam. The academy offers free, certified AI training for students, educators, and businesses. (El Economista)

• Tritemius 🇪🇸 announced the launch of a $23.7M fund to back early-stage startups in Latam and Europe building Web3 and decentralized finance solutions. The fund will invest about $560K per startup, aiming to accelerate practical blockchain adoption across sectors. (Contxto)

Sociopolitical News

🇦🇷 Argentina

• Argentina has lifted restrictions on undeclared U.S. dollars, aiming to tap up to $271B in hidden savings to support its economy and President Milei’s dollarization plans. The decree lets Argentines use stashed cash without reporting its origin, boosting liquidity but raising concerns about tax evasion and financial transparency. (Reuters) (Financial Times) (AP News)

• Argentina approved Rio Tinto’s $2.5B lithium project, boosting its role in the global battery supply chain. The investment is set to create jobs and attract more foreign capital as demand for lithium grows. (Reuters) (Buenos Aires Times)

🇧🇷 Brazil

• Brazil has begun a 28-day process to certify its chicken farms as bird flu-free, aiming to restore poultry exports. Authorities have disinfected affected sites, and no new cases have been found as Brazil seeks to lift trade bans. (Reuters) (Investing.com)

• Brazil uncovered a Russian spy ring using fake Brazilian identities to infiltrate the West, exposing a major Russian intelligence operation. Most operatives fled, prompting global alerts and concerns over identity security. (Moneycontrol) (NYT)

• Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro’s trial for allegedly orchestrating a coup to overturn his 2022 election defeat has begun, a landmark case for Brazilian democracy. He faces charges including leading a criminal organization and plotting assassinations, with up to 40 years in prison possible; Bolsonaro denies all accusations as political persecution. (Al Jazeera) (NYT) (BBC)

🇨🇱 Chile

• Chile plans to expropriate the former Colonia Dignidad enclave, a site of Pinochet-era atrocities, to create a memorial center for victims. Germany has pledged $2.5M to build an archive documenting abuses at the colony, which was founded by a Nazi officer and operated as a torture hub. (France 24) (Gob.cl) (BBC)

🇨🇴 Colombia

• Colombian President Petro has proposed resuming peace talks with the ELN guerrilla group at the Vatican, seeking renewed momentum after stalled negotiations. Experts say Vatican involvement could add symbolic weight but warn real progress depends on both sides’ commitment; the ELN has yet to formally respond. (France 24) (Colombia One) (Washington Post)

🇨🇷 Costa Rica

• Costa Rica faces a record surge in cybercrime, with banking fraud cases up 668% since 2020 and daily scams now affecting 38 people every day. Criminals exploit leaked personal data and local tactics, while experts warn weak cybersecurity and recent ransomware attacks have made the country a prime target. (Tico Times) (Crime Research)

🇩🇴 Dominican Republic

• The Dominican Republic’s power grid loses $1.2B yearly to inefficiencies, but upgrades and renewables offer investment potential. A $225M World Bank project targets loss reduction and grid modernization as the country aims for 25% clean energy by 2025. (BNamericas) (World Bank)

• The Dominican Republic has deported over 276k Haitians in 2024 under a policy targeting 10k weekly, drawing condemnation for xenophobia and rights violations. Critics cite deportations of pregnant women and children, while authorities claim adherence to human rights amid Haiti’s crisis. (Telesur) (CNN) (Amnesty) (NPR)

🇪🇨 Ecuador

• Solaris secured $200M from Royal Gold to develop Ecuador’s Warintza copper project, a major undeveloped deposit. The deal includes a gold stream and royalty, with funding split into tranches tied to milestones, supporting the project through feasibility studies. (Mining Technology) (Business Wire)

🇸🇻 El Salvador

• El Salvador arrested prominent human rights lawyer Ruth López, intensifying concerns over authoritarianism under President Bukele. She faces embezzlement charges amid a crackdown on dissent, with her whereabouts unknown and legal access denied, reflecting wider suppression of critics and NGOs. (Human Rights Watch) (Al Jazeera) (CNN)

• El Salvador’s Congress passed a 30% tax on foreign NGO donations to curb “foreign agents,” drawing criticism over stifling dissent. The law, backed by Bukele’s party, imposes fines up to $250K for non-compliance, claiming to protect sovereignty. (Reuters) (Arise.tv)

🇬🇹 Guatemala

• The U.S. signed a $64M deal to modernize Guatemala's Puerto Quetzal, countering Chinese influence while boosting regional trade capacity. The agreement expands the Pacific port by 800 meters with four new berths, creating a strategic logistics hub near Panama Canal. (DW)

• The UN warned that Guatemala’s prosecutor’s office is systematically using criminal law to target justice officials, journalists, and human rights defenders, undermining the rule of law. Over 50 justice operators have gone into exile as international bodies highlight escalating misuse of prosecutions, though the prosecutor’s office denies wrongdoing. (Infobae) (Times of India)

• Guatemala began the process to join CAF, seeking greater access to development financing for infrastructure and sustainable growth. Membership will support projects in transport, ports, and urban transit. (CAF) (Infobae)

🇭🇳 Honduras

• Honduras' executive branch faced criticism for attempting to expand budgetary control, prompting opposition protests over transparency concerns. The approved $17B 2025 budget prioritizes $4B for social investments, despite disputes over centralization risks under President Castro's administration. (La Prensa)

• Honduras’ Congress is prioritizing extractive industries over environmental protections, ignoring the Escazú Agreement and community participation. Despite high risks for environmental defenders and international calls for stronger safeguards, the government has not advanced on regional environmental commitments. (Criterio.hn)

🇲🇽 Mexico

• A teachers’ union protest briefly shut down Mexico City’s main airport, disrupting international flights and highlighting mounting labor tensions ahead of key elections. The CNTE union demands higher salaries and pension reforms, rejecting a recent 10% wage hike as insufficient. (NYT) (Mexico News Daily) (Ground News)

• Mexico’s debt-laden Pemex plans to cut 3,114 jobs to save $540M, risking union clashes amid declining production. The state oil firm aims to redirect $5.25B to exploration as output nears a 40-year low, contradicting President Sheinbaum’s pledge against layoffs. (Reuters) (Offshore Technology)

🇳🇮 Nicaragua

• Russian and Nicaraguan parliamentarians will meet in Managua to strengthen strategic ties. Talks focus on expanding trade, military, and cybersecurity cooperation as both countries mark 80 years of diplomatic relations. (Izvestia)

🇵🇦 Panama

• Chiquita fired about 5,000 workers in Panama after a strike over pension reforms halted banana production and caused $75M in losses. The government called the strike illegal and backed the layoffs, while unions insist the protest is lawful and ongoing. (BBC News Mundo) (Al Jazeera) (AP News)

• Panama and Venezuela will resume commercial flights after nearly a year of suspension due to diplomatic tensions. The move restores air connectivity despite ongoing political differences. (El Economista) (AP News)

🇵🇾 Paraguay

• Singapore and Paraguay signed a carbon credits deal enabling bilateral transfers and supporting green projects. The agreement also opens Singapore’s market to Paraguayan meat exports. (Channel NewsAsia) (Mercopress)

• Japan and Paraguay upgraded their ties to a strategic partnership to boost investment and counter China’s regional influence. The deal includes a new investment pact, visa-free travel for Paraguayans, and aims to leverage Paraguay’s Mercosur access and ties with Taiwan. (The Japan Times) (Mainichi) (Rio Times)

🇵🇪 Peru

• Peru’s top court recognized the Kichwa people’s territorial rights in the Amazon, setting a key precedent for Indigenous land protection. The decision strengthens Indigenous conservation roles. (AP News) (US News)

• Peru will launch a mining fund to incentivize small-scale and artisanal miners with preferential rates and better market access. The initiative aims to boost formalization, support mercury-free practices, and expand financial inclusion for over 250K miners. (Mining.com) (Solidaridad Network) (Mining.com - loans)

• Peru is negotiating four trade agreements to expand global market access, targeting India, Indonesia, Brazil, and updated terms with China. The deals aim to diversify exports (notably minerals and agriculture), with India talks poised to conclude in 2025 after a 77% export surge to $3.5B in 2024. (Financial Express) (MercoPress) (Hong Kong Gov)

🇻🇪 Venezuela

• The U.S. will let Chevron’s Venezuela oil license expire May 27 amid internal Trump administration divisions over sanctions policy. Secretary of State Marco Rubio blocked a proposed 60-day extension, but a minimal maintenance waiver may follow to safeguard operations. (Reuters) (Axios) (Bloomberg)

• Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Pablo Guanipa was arrested ahead of contentious elections, accused of plotting sabotage with foreign mercenaries. The government claims to have thwarted attacks on infrastructure, while the U.S. condemns the detentions as political repression amid opposition boycotts of the vote. (Newsonair) (Barrons)

• Venezuela suspended flights from Colombia after arresting 38 individuals accused of plotting election sabotage. The week-long ban, impacting 3K passengers, follows claims of planned attacks on infrastructure, with officials alleging opposition and foreign collusion, though no evidence was provided. (Reuters) (Al Jazeera) (AP News)

🇺🇸 Miami

• A Florida court ordered Mexico’s ex-security chief and his wife to pay $2.4B for aiding the Sinaloa Cartel through bribes. Genaro García Luna, convicted in 2023, allowed cocaine trafficking while laundering stolen public funds into luxury assets during his 2006–2012 tenure. (CBS News) (AP News) (Al Jazeera)

• House GOP’s proposed SNAP cuts could strip 3.2M Americans of food aid via stricter work rules and state cost-sharing. The $92B savings plan risks hunger spikes, targeting seniors, parents, and immigrants, per CBO projections. (CNBC) (Politico)

• ICE agents are arresting migrants at U.S. immigration courts to expedite deportations, bypassing court hearings. The new tactic is raising legal and humanitarian concerns. (AP News) (CBS News) (LA Times) (Washington Post)

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Funding

Mileto 🇧🇷 raised a $215K Angel Round from Strategic Angel Investors to connect companies with technical high school interns via tailored recruitment and mentorship. The platform bridges Brazil’s skills gap by aligning 16–18-year-old students’ hands-on training with corporate needs, targeting 100K placements by 2029.

BioPlaster Research 🇲🇽 raised a $655K Bridge Round with funding from Rindani Capital 🇲🇽, GRIDX 🇦🇷, and other Strategic Angel Investors to replace petroleum plastics with seaweed-based biodegradable materials. The startup converts coastal seaweed waste into pellets for packaging films and bags, partnering with Carnival Cruise Line and suppliers for BMW. Funds will launch a Mérida pilot plant in late 2025, targeting hundreds of thousands of units annually to address Mexico’s 7M tons of plastic waste crisis.

Datlo 🇧🇷 raised a $710K Seed-Extension Round led by Hiker Ventures 🇧🇷 to boost sales via AI geo-intelligence, analyzing 120M+ data points for clients like iFood and Nestlé. Funds will enhance analytics and expand into Mexico and Colombia, building on 180+ enterprise clients post-Y Combinator (2021).

VMetrix 🇨🇱 raised a $3.2M Seed Round with funding from Kayyak Ventures 🇨🇱 and Nazca Ventures 🇨🇱 to automate and streamline investment portfolio management. The platform simplifies processes, reduces manual tasks, and enables efficient scaling for asset managers and institutional investors.

Allugg 🇧🇷 raised a $5.3M FIDC-backed Debt Round led by Oslo DTVM 🇧🇷 to scale its Hardware-as-a-Service platform for IT and medical equipment rentals, serving 200+ clients (70% startups).

Makasí 🇧🇷 raised a $21M Debt Round from undisclosed investors to finance affordable housing via Brazil’s Minha Casa, Minha Vida program, having funded 2.8k+ homes across 19 states. Combined with a prior $19M round, total 2024 funding hits $40M to tackle Brazil’s 5.8M-home deficit.

Auna 🇵🇪 raised a $62.1M Post-IPO Debt Round from undisclosed investors to expand its integrated healthcare network across Latam. The company operates 31 hospitals and clinics in Mexico, Peru, and Colombia, offering oncology-focused health care plans and prioritizing high-complexity care in underpenetrated markets, while refinancing obligations to support its vertical integration strategy.

Acquisition News

• Vórtx 🇧🇷 acquired Grafeno 🇧🇷, a Brazilian fintech providing digital infrastructure for credit operations, transaction security, and institutional asset management, to accelerate its Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS) and Credit-as-a-Service (CaaS) capabilities by integrating Grafeno’s 15,000 accounts and advancing infrastructure for corporate debt/FIDC markets.

• Tiendanube 🇦🇷 acquired Kalto 🇲🇽, a Latam B2B payments platform empowering SMEs with advanced cash flow and credit tools, to launch a native payments solution and expand financial products for Tiendanube’s merchants across Latam.

Startup & VC News

• Berkshire Hathaway 🇺🇸 exited its Nubank 🇧‍🇷 position with a $250M profit, divesting 40.2M shares to streamline financial sector exposure despite Nubank’s 91% 2024 revenue growth. The move aligns with Buffett’s shift toward cash reserves ($348B) and industrial assets, while Nubank remains Latam’s leading crypto-integrated neobank with 100M+ users. (FinanceFeeds) (Valor International)

• Uber and iFood 🇧🇷 announced a cross-platform integration in Brazil, enabling ride bookings via iFood and delivery orders via Uber apps to boost convenience for 85M users. This move strengthens the market positions of both platforms amid rising competition from Meituan's $883 million Keeta expansion. (Reuters) (G1 Globo)

• Patria Investimentos 🇧🇷 announced a $1B investment to launch Omnia, a hyperscale data center platform targeting Brazil, Mexico, and Chile, focused on powering AI and cloud services for major global tech clients. The first campus, set for Brazil, will use only renewable energy and aims to meet surging Latam demand as regional data center capacity is expected to triple by 2030. (Startupi) (Reuters) (Valor International)

Sociopolitical News

🇦🇷 Argentina

• Recurrent floods in Argentina highlight escalating climate risks, with March 2025's Bahía Blanca disaster displacing 33K households and crippling key agricultural exports. Climate attribution studies link extreme rainfall to warming trends, while May 2025 storms further strained soybean and corn production in vital farming regions. (Reuters) (FloodList)

• Argentina's Supreme Court uncovered 83 crates of Nazi-era documents in its basement, shedding light on historical propaganda networks. The 1941 shipment, intercepted en route from Tokyo, contained materials to spread Hitler's ideology, which are now under review with Holocaust Museum experts to trace global Nazi finances. (Corte Suprema) (BBC) (NY Times)

• Argentina tightens immigration rules, ending free healthcare and education for foreigners to curb public spending under President Javier Milei. The decree mandates health insurance for visitors, allows universities to charge international students, and expedites deportations, aligning with austerity measures; provinces like Salta saw a 95% drop in foreign patients after implementing fees. (CNN) (Info3)

• Argentina secures a $500M IDB loan as part of a $10B package to stabilize its economy and advance fiscal reforms. The funds aim to strengthen balance of payments, support private sector growth, and reduce inflation through fiscal discipline, aligning with IMF and World Bank agreements while targeting aid to vulnerable populations. (Infobae) (IDB)

🇧🇷 Brazil

• Brazil’s Serra Verde rare earth mine challenges China’s dominance, but exports remain tied to Chinese contracts. The US-backed project, aiming to produce 5K tons/year by 2026, taps Brazil’s 21M-ton reserves (second-largest globally) as Western nations seek supply chain alternatives amid trade tensions. (Xataka) (NY Times)

• Brazil’s first commercial farm bird flu outbreak risks $10B exports as China and others impose bans. The virus detected in Rio Grande do Sul-home to 35% of global poultry trade-prompted culling 17K birds and egg destruction, with farmers boosting biosecurity to prevent supply chain disruptions. (Reuters)

• China and Brazil ink 20 trade deals opposing U.S. protectionism, boosting agriculture, currency swaps, and nuclear ties. Beijing lifted soybean import bans on five Brazilian firms to reduce U.S. reliance, alongside $4.8B in new investments and a BRICS multilateralism push ahead of July’s summit. (Reuters) (China Daily)

• Meituan to invest $1B to launch Keeta in Brazil, challenging iFood in a $4.5B delivery market projected to grow 15% annually. The five-year plan includes nationwide logistics and digital tools for local restaurants, backed by President Lula during Beijing talks, as China expands tech ties amid U.S. trade tensions. (Dotdotnews) (Bloomberg)

🇨🇱 Chile

• Chile’s lithium value-added strategy stalls as Chinese firms Tsingshan and BYD exit cathode plant projects. The withdrawals, despite Chile’s 39% global lithium reserves, reflect global oversupply and price drops to $12K/ton, though Tsingshan hints at future opportunities while Cochilco forecasts 305K-ton 2025 output. (Discovery Alert) (Riotimes) (Energy News)

• Chile’s Codelco secures $500M credit line backed by Santander and Italy’s SACE to bolster copper production. The state-owned miner, responsible for 8% of global copper output, will use the funds for operational stability and debt management amid rising project costs and market volatility. (Reuters) (Marketscreener)

🇨🇴 Colombia

• Colombian smuggler Diego Marín operated a $100M/year criminal network with DEA complicity, bribing agents to evade scrutiny. Allegations reveal agents accepted luxury gifts and enabled his contraband operations while he allegedly funded President Petro’s campaign with $125K, prompting comparisons to historic U.S. law enforcement corruption scandals. (AP News) (Infobae) (RTVC)

• Bogota's mayor says the $6B metro project is still on track despite US attempts to veto it. The city confirms 53.6% completion of Line 1 (scheduled for 2028) and ongoing support from IDB, World Bank, and EU lenders, though analysts warn future phases may require alternative financing amid U.S.-China tensions over Colombia’s Belt and Road membership. (Swissinfo) (Semana)

• Colombia joins China’s Belt and Road Initiative, prioritizing infrastructure and tech projects amid U.S. trade tensions. The non-binding agreement targets renewable energy, AI, and rail corridors to boost exports, with China pledging to import more Colombian goods while domestic critics warn of risks to U.S. ties, Colombia’s top trade partner. (El Economista) (ColombiaOne) (Reuters)

• Colombia seeks membership in the BRICS-led New Development Bank, signaling a geopolitical shift toward China amid strained U.S. relations. President Petro committed to purchasing $512M in shares to fund a 120km Atlantic-Pacific railway, leveraging the bank’s $40B infrastructure portfolio, while U.S. officials oppose BRI-linked projects in Latam. (AP News) (Business Standard)

• Colombian Senate rejects Petro’s labor reform referendum, prompting fraud claims and protests. The 49-47 vote faced allegations of irregularities, with Petro vowing to resubmit the proposal as opponents cite $250K cost savings and accuse him of undermining Congress. (El Colombiano) (Infobae)

🇨🇷 Costa Rica

• US trade uncertainty risks Costa Rica’s $9.4B exports, threatening agriculture and medical device sectors. A 10% tariff and China tensions may cut demand, hurting currency and FDI; diversification via EU/Asia deals and CAFTA-DR safeguards continues. (Tico Times) (Fresh Plaza)

• Costa Rica’s PROCOMER targets AI and data analytics investments via Silicon Valley trade mission to boost $16.1B tech exports. The initiative aims to expand its high-value tech hub status, leveraging 119K jobs and global sector growth. (Newswire)

• Costa Rica’s FDI hits a decade low with 43 projects in 2024 amid agency restructuring and Mexico’s $43.3B surge. Free trade zones drove 64% of inflows as the government pivots to semiconductors and advanced manufacturing to counter global competition. (CRHoy) (Tico Times)

🇩🇴 Dominican Republic

• Dominican Republic deploys 1.5K troops and accelerates border wall construction amid Haiti’s escalating gang violence and refugee crisis. The measures include stricter migration controls and legal penalties for aiding undocumented migrants, with over 213.6K Haitians deported since October 2024 as gangs control 85% of Port-au-Prince. (Reuters) (Al Jazeera) (ReliefWeb)

• Dominican Republic eyes record $45B forex earnings in 2025 as tourism (+22%) and remittances offset construction dip. Reserves hit $15.1B with 5% GDP growth projected, driven by FDI and strong Q1 inflows. (EHPLUS+) (Travel and Tour World) (CSQWorld)

🇪🇨 Ecuador

• Jorge Glas, former VP of Ecuador, is charged with the 2023 murder of anti-corruption candidate Fernando Villavicencio via Los Lobos gang links. Glas, imprisoned for corruption, is one of six facing allegations, including a $200K prison-ordered bounty.(Bloomberg) (Al Jazeera) (Riotimes)

• Ecuador's President Noboa introduces legislation classifying gang members as "combatants" to dismantle criminal economies. The urgent bill targets financial networks behind Ecuador's violence crisis (47 homicides per 100K), allowing asset seizures while establishing 30-year sentences for gang leaders. (Rio Times) (La Derecha Diario)

• Ecuador's President Noboa consolidates power with his movement controlling the National Assembly amid democratic concerns. Following April's re-election, he pursues constitutional reforms expanding military powers against organized crime while aligning with Trump through proposed security cooperation, including reopening the Manta base. (La Jornada) (CNN)

• Ecuador’s President Noboa sets security, economic reform, and jobs as top priorities for 2025–2029 amid violence and fiscal crisis. Plans include military crackdowns and infrastructure investment, but progress faces legislative and economic hurdles. (Primicias)

🇸🇻 El Salvador

• El Salvador’s President Bukele proposes a "foreign agents" law taxing NGOs 30%, raising fears of authoritarian crackdowns on dissent. The bill targets critics of his gang crackdown and mirrors measures seen in Nicaragua and Venezuela. (AP News) (El País)

🇬🇹 Guatemala

• Guatemala implements a 10% minimum wage hike for 2025 to address inflation and labor demands, with 6% for export sectors. The monthly rates range from $409-$454 (Q3,097–Q3,723), set by presidential decree after failed negotiations, though employers warn of strain on small businesses and potential job losses. (Prensa Libre) (Central Law) (Bloomberg Línea)

• Guatemala’s private securities market hits $340M in four months, driven by bank bonds and sustainable investments. Major issuers like Banco Promerica and BAC deployed $65M of $500M authorized, while electronic trading and ESG-focused bonds gain traction amid capital market reforms. (Prensa Libre) (Proparco) (CABEI)

• Yazaki’s $10M factory launch in Guatemala draws interest from seven more auto firms, boosting nearshoring and job creation. The plant, supported by USAID and CAFTA-DR, targets North American supply chains and electric mobility growth. (Prensa Libre) (Yazaki)

🇭🇳 Honduras

• Honduras’ goods exports rose 33% in early 2025, led by coffee and electronics, reversing last year’s drop and supporting 3–4% GDP growth. Improved weather and global demand drove the rebound. (El Heraldo) (Fitch Solutions)

• Honduras’ business leaders warn the new tax law deters investment by ending incentives and increasing uncertainty. The law replaces existing benefits with stricter regimes, raising investor concerns amid already slowing FDI and legal unpredictability. (La Prensa) (Trade.gov)

🇲🇽 Mexico

• Hispanic US lawmakers and Mexico’s Sheinbaum oppose a proposed 5% remittance tax, warning it would harm migrant families and fuel irregular migration. The bill could cost Mexico $3.25B/year and push remittances into informal channels. (El Universal) (El País)

• Mexico accuses MrBeast of violating filming permits by commercially exploiting Mayan pyramid footage. Authorities allege he used an educational permit to promote a chocolate product, with scenes deemed misleading or fabricated, prompting legal action against his production company. (MSN) (BBC) (Reuters)

• Starting on 1 June, Mexico will become the first country to elect all of its judges via popular vote, beginning with 881 federal positions. Critics warn that the reform could politicise courts and weaken judicial independence. (The Economist) (DW)

• Mexico’s government signed a pact with 22 firms to boost "Made in Mexico" product sales, targeting 70% of products in supermarkets and 400K new jobs. The deal, part of Sheinbaum’s Plan México, includes a $55M textile agreement and sector-specific increases. (El Economista) (Revista Migrante) (BNAmericas)

🇳🇮 Nicaragua

• Nicaragua bans dual citizenship via constitutional amendment, stripping nationality from those acquiring foreign passports. Critics say it targets opponents, following over 400 revocations since 2023, and requires 2026 ratification. Central Americans are exempt. (Reuters) (Tico Times)

🇵🇦 Panama

• Panama City’s mayor hints at a Bitcoin reserve after meeting El Salvador’s crypto leaders, signaling potential municipal adoption. The move follows Panama City’s approval of crypto payments for taxes and fines, though federal legislation would be required for broader implementation. (Cointelegraph) (Binance)

• Panama’s Cobre Panamá mine restart is critical to U.S. mineral security, offering a counter to China’s copper dominance. The $10B mine, halted in 2023, could supply 1.5% of global copper for AI and green tech if revived via U.S.-backed talks, with Panama’s president exploring expedited reopening. (The Deep Dive) (CSIS) (Bloomberg)

🇵🇾 Paraguay

• Paraguay aims to produce 90K tons/year of green hydrogen by 2030 using surplus hydropower to cut fossil fuel imports and boost energy security. The strategy targets transport and industry, backed by a $100M ammonia facility and partnerships with IDB and private investors. (ABC Color) (GH2)

• Paraguay establishes a General Directorate for Gambling to modernize regulation, targeting illegal operations and boosting state revenue. The overhaul includes taxing online platforms and blockchain integration for transparency, aligning with regional trends. (Infoplay)

🇵🇪 Peru

• Peru extends emergency powers in Lima districts to combat organized crime, deploying military and reporting 15K arrests since 2024. Affected areas face persistent violence and extortion, while bishops condemn recent gang-linked murders. (Milenio) (Riotimes) (BSS News)

• Peru’s Congress allows microenterprises to avoid fines by taking tax courses, raising concerns over $200M–$350M in revenue losses. The law applies to firms with under $215K annual sales; SUNAT must implement courses by August 2025. (Infobae) (Gestión)

🇻🇪 Venezuela

• UN experts condemn Venezuela’s isolation of detained opponents as equivalent to forced disappearances, citing activist Eduardo Torres’ case. Over 894 political prisoners face systemic repression, with judicial complicity in denying habeas corpus rights. (UN News) (Infobae) (Foro Penal)

• Toyota, H&M, and Volkswagen have resumed direct operations in Venezuela, signaling cautious foreign investment as the economy stabilizes. Trade with Colombia is rising but remains below historic levels, with further growth hinging on oil sector licenses and currency stability. (La República) (America Retail)

• US sanctions have exacerbated Venezuela’s economic crisis, with Oxford Economics projecting a 35% GDP contraction and $226B in oil revenue losses since 2017. Hyperinflation and import declines have deepened poverty, linked to mass migration and humanitarian suffering. (Bloomberg Linea) (Tricontinental)

• Venezuela’s legislative and gubernatorial elections face voter apathy and economic crisis amid opposition fractures and repression. The ruling party dominates campaigning as sanctions cut oil output, with GDP set to contract 2–3% and inflation at 130–150%. (El País) (Crisis Group)

🇺🇸 Miami

• A proposed US bill would impose a 5% tax on remittances sent by non-citizens, threatening billions in annual flows to Latam and the Caribbean. The measure, supported by House Republicans, could cost Mexico $3.25B and India $1.6B yearly, spark a shift to informal channels, and hurt economies where remittances make up over 20% of GDP. (La Prensa Gráfica) (El País) (Economic Times)

• Miami Beach approved an initiative to attract Israeli and Jewish-owned firms, aiming to diversify its economy beyond tourism. The plan targets tech and healthcare sectors, leveraging Florida’s 429 Israeli-founded companies that employ 8,190 workers and generate $7.3B annually. (Miami Today) (Times of Israel)

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Funding

UpDairy 🇧🇷 raised a $2.5M Seed Round with funding from ProVeg Incubator 🇩🇪 to manufacture food ingredients that produce animal-free dairy proteins. The company’s manufacturing process harnesses microorganisms to create dairy proteins without animals, offering the same taste and nutrition as traditional dairy while significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enabling consumers to enjoy dairy products without the environmental impact of conventional farming.

diio 🇨‍🇱 raised a $2.5M Seed Round with funding from Base10 Partners 🇺‍🇸 to develop an AI-powered personal assistant for enhancing sales team performance during virtual meetings. The platform records conversations, analyzes them based on sales methodologies, and interprets key areas for improvement, enabling sales professionals to focus on selling while gaining valuable insights for better decision-making and increased effectiveness in client interactions.

Speedbird Aero 🇧🇷 raised a $4M Series A Round with funding from Lince Capital 🇵🇹, MSW Capital 🇧🇷, Explorer Investments 🇵🇹, and Cedrus Capital 🇵🇹 to provide drone logistics solutions. The company specializes in unmanned aircraft systems development for logistics and delivery of products and medicines, enabling businesses to have a fast and complete unmanned delivery experience.

Credituz 🇧🇷 raised a $5M Seed Round with funding from Strategic Angel Investors to operate a digital real estate financing platform connecting real estate agents, developers, and brokers with financial institutions. The company’s AI-powered platform offers credit analysis, conversational CRM tools integrated with social media, and automated contract generation, enabling real estate professionals to streamline operations, enhance sales conversion rates, and improve customer engagement.

Acquisition News

• Emergent Cold Latin America 🇧🇷 acquired Comfrio 🇧🇷, a Brazilian cold chain logistics provider with 24 sites and 420K pallet positions, to expand domestic distribution capabilities and boost total storage to 2.9M cubic meters across 12 states, strengthening its position as Latam’s largest temperature-controlled logistics network.

Startup & VC News

• Fluent Ventures 🇺🇸 announced a $40M fund to invest in early-stage startups across Latam, MENA, Africa, and Southeast Asia, targeting companies that localize proven Western business models in fintech, healthtech, and commerce. This strategy aims to accelerate innovation in emerging markets by backing resilient founders adapting successful ideas to local needs, with initial investments ranging from $250K–$2M. (BetaKit) (PR Newswire)

• Revolut 🇬🇧 announced plans to begin operating as a bank in Mexico during the second half of 2025, offering free international transfers, currency exchange, and expense sharing. This entry into one of the world’s largest remittance corridors comes after receiving its banking license in April 2024, with over 100K people already on the waiting list. (Bloomberg Línea) (iupana)

• São Pedro Capital 🇧🇷 announced a global tech equity fund targeting around $177M (R$1B) in assets, focused on listed companies in cybersecurity, cloud, digital payments, health innovation, AI, and automation. This move aims to connect Latam investors with global tech markets, leveraging a team with Silicon Valley and emerging-market expertise. (Valor Econômico) (Valor International)

• Impacta VC 🇨🇱 announced opening applications for its Fundraising Program 2025, expanding to six months with personalized support to help Latam startups secure Pre-Seed to Series A funding. The program, which starts May 20, targets tech-driven ventures with social/environmental impact and boasts a 65% success rate in post-program fundraising, including 45% women-led startups in 2024. (Revista EY N) (DFSud) (Ecosistema Startup)

Sociopolitical News

🇦🇷 Argentina

• Argentina’s government increased the minimum wage through monthly increments up to around $285 (AR$322K) by August 2025, but the 12% nominal rise lags behind 180% annual inflation. Implemented by decree after failed union negotiations, the adjustment raises April’s wage to around $267 (AR$302K), insufficient to offset soaring living costs amid ongoing currency devaluation and economic instability. (EFE) (Ámbito) (Buenos Aires Herald) (Bloomberg Tax) (Trading Economics)

• Argentina’s largest copper discovery in 30 years positions it as a future leader in critical minerals for green technologies. Lundin Mining and BHP’s Filo del Sol project in San Juan province holds 13M tons of copper, 32M ounces of gold, and 659M ounces of silver, with inferred resources adding 25M tons of copper and 49M ounces of gold, potentially making Argentina a top-six copper producer by 2031. (Debate) (Bloomberg) (BATimes) (Derechadiario) (Riotimes)

• Argentina’s renewed push for dollarization under President Milei has cut sovereign risk to February lows, signaling investor confidence in economic reforms. The government accelerated measures allowing direct dollar usage for transactions and dollar-backed bonds, complementing fiscal austerity and central bank reforms aimed at curbing inflation and stabilizing the economy. (El Economista) (Bloomberg)

🇧🇷 Brazil

• Brazil is expanding agricultural trade with Southeast Asia to diversify from U.S.-China trade tensions, securing a key beef deal with Vietnam. The agreement, part of broader efforts to access ASEAN’s $2.3T market, aligns with China’s parallel shift to Latam soybeans, illustrating mutual trade diversification strategies amid global realignments. (Bloomberg) (CFR)

• IFC and Banco Industrial launched a $105M package to bolster Brazil’s MSMEs, targeting women-led businesses and the Legal Amazon region. The funds are allocated as 30% for women entrepreneurs, 10% for Amazon-based SMEs, 40% for nationwide credit expansion, and 20% for Amazon payroll loans, addressing systemic financing gaps in a sector contributing 27% of Brazil’s GDP. This aligns with IFC’s global $4B MSME Finance Platform. (Devdiscourse) (IFC)

🇨🇱 Chile

• Amazon's $4B investment to launch AWS data centers in Chile by 2026 marks its third Latam cloud region. The data centers use air-cooled systems that use water 4% of the time annually, addressing environmental concerns. The project, creating three availability zones, aims to boost digital transformation and local talent, amid Chile’s prolonged drought and tech sector growth. (TechCrunch) (Reuters) (Data Center Dynamics)

• Conflicting signals emerge over Chinese lithium investments in Chile as BYD and Tsingshan pause projects amid an 88% lithium price plunge since 2022, while China’s embassy insists both firms remain committed. Chile’s government emphasizes its strategic lithium portfolio’s long-term appeal, with a Tohá administration economist attributing delays to global market volatility rather than eroded investor confidence. (Cooperativa.cl) (Diario Financiero) (Reuters) (Bloomberg)

• Chile’s antitrust authority (FNE) filed a complaint against Google for abusing its Android dominance, seeking an $89M fine and measures to open app distribution. The FNE alleges Google restricted competition by mandating Google Play’s preinstallation and payment systems, controlling 95% of Chile’s app distribution market since 2019. The case, initiated after a 2022 citizen complaint, could force Google to allow third-party app stores and reduce fees for developers. (BioBioChile) (El Mostrador) (FNE)

🇨🇴 Colombia

• Colombia’s Commerce Ministry remained leaderless during the first month of the U.S. trade war, hampering tariff negotiations. Luis Carlos Reyes resigned in March 2025 amid appointment scandals, just before the U.S. imposed 10% tariffs on steel, aluminum, and agricultural exports. Successor Cielo Rusinque Urrego initiated talks by late April, also advancing cannabis export discussions. (ColombiaOne) (Finance Colombia) (Baker McKenzie)

• Colombia’s public debt surpassed $260B amid a 6.7% fiscal deficit, prompting IMF suspension of a $9.8B credit line. Authorities plan $11.1B in 2025 spending cuts, though tax underperformance complicates fiscal targets. (IMF) (Reuters) (Trading Economics)

• Colombia’s Q1 2025 exports grew 5.3% to $11.9B, powered by a 50.9% March surge in agricultural goods like coffee (135.5%) and flowers (23.4%), countering energy sector downturns. The U.S. absorbed 30.7% of shipments, with Panama and China as secondary markets, while non-traditional exports rose 13%. Unroasted coffee sales spiked 70.1% year-over-year, bolstering economic recovery as inflation and interest rates declined. (La República) (Portafolio) (El Espectador)

🇨🇷 Costa Rica

• According to President Chaves, Costa Rica’s economy has rebounded from near-crisis to the strongest in Latin America, led by fiscal reforms and export gains. GDP grew 4.1% in 2024, public debt dropped to 60% of GDP, and tech exports and tourism surged, supported by an IMF loan. (Infobae) (Central Bank of Costa Rica)

🇩🇴 Dominican Republic

• DP World and the Dominican Republic partner on a $760M port and free trade zone expansion to position the country as a Caribbean logistics hub. The investment, split evenly between port upgrades and a 225-hectare free trade zone, aims to boost annual cargo capacity to 3.1M TEUs, attract $3.9B in foreign investment, and create thousands of jobs through enhanced nearshoring capabilities. (GlobeNewswire) (Dominican Today) (Portal Portuario)

• Dominican Republic and UAE forge cybersecurity pact to bolster digital resilience. The agreement targets infrastructure, threat response, and expertise exchange, supporting DR’s anti-cybercrime efforts amid EU-Latam dialogues. (Dominican Today) (EEAS) (RCAAP)

🇪🇨 Ecuador

• Ecuador’s electoral council confirmed Daniel Noboa’s re-election, reinforcing political stability amid the country’s ongoing security crisis. Noboa secured 44.3% in the runoff, defeating Luisa González, and will now serve a full term after completing Lasso’s mandate. (La Silla Vacía) (El Universo)

• Ecuador’s $150M solar farm with a 20-year government power deal highlights rising foreign renewable investment, bolstered by tax incentives and a 2025 Canada trade pact alongside IDB’s $1.4B sustainable infrastructure funding. (PV Tech) (Chambers) (IDB) (Primicias)

🇸🇻 El Salvador

• El Salvador’s Bukele plans arrest warrants against journalists over gang pact reports, escalating press freedom concerns. El Faro uncovered a 2022 power-sharing deal with gangs and a “no body, no crime” homicide cover-up policy, which Bukele dismissed as a globalist plot; his government has surveilled and charged the outlet since then. (Democracy Now!) (Common Dreams)

• El Salvador acquired 7 Bitcoin last week despite its IMF agreement, increasing reserves to 6,173 BTC ($637M) amid ongoing defiance of purchase restrictions. The country leverages non-public funds and private sector channels to technically comply with the $1.4B loan terms while continuing accumulation, as President Bukele rejects external pressure to halt. (Cointelegraph) (Cointribune)

• Trump admits he could repatriate wrongly deported Maryland man Kilmar Abrego Garcia from El Salvador but refuses, contradicting prior U.S. claims of inability. Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele cites alleged gang ties to block return, while a federal judge accused the administration of bad faith in withholding evidence. (CNN) (CNN Español)

🇬🇹 Guatemala

• Guatemalan remittances surged to a record $1.9B in April 2024, underscoring their critical role in stabilizing the economy. Remittances have doubled as a share of GDP since 2008, reaching 19.1% in 2023, fueling international reserves accumulation and supporting consumption amid long-term GDP trade-offs. (Soy502) (IMF) (Trading Economics)

• Guatemala’s central bank cut its 2025 agricultural export growth forecast to 0.8% due to U.S. tariffs and trade challenges, revising overall economic growth to 3.8%. Exporters face a 10% U.S. base tariff and high logistics costs, while CAFTA-DR favors U.S. farm goods, exacerbating trade imbalances. (Prensa Libre) (Tridge) (USDA)

🇭🇳 Honduras

• Honduras’ Tax Justice Law aims to combat inequality by overhauling regressive exemptions, projecting a 288% increase in public investment for 2025. The reform targets $20.1B lost to corporate loopholes (2010-2023) and redirects funds toward poverty reduction, with 92% of exemptions historically benefiting the wealthiest 10% of companies. (SAR) (Latindadd)

• Honduras projects 3.5–4% economic growth in 2025, driven by remittances and public investment. The Central Bank attributes this outlook to robust domestic demand fueled by coffee exports, social spending, and record infrastructure investments in roads, energy, and healthcare. (Latam FDI)

🇲🇽 Mexico

• Mexico sued Google for renaming the Gulf of Mexico as “Gulf of America” on U.S. maps, contesting a Trump-era order supported by Republicans. The 2020 order applies only to the U.S. continental shelf (46% of the Gulf), per Mexico, while Google’s localization policies show dual names globally. (Daily Mail) (BBC)

• Mexico’s debt interest payments under President Sheinbaum reached a 20-year high of $51.8B in 2025, consuming 18.6% of government revenue amid a $896.3B national debt. Pemex’s liabilities surged 21.3% to $101.1B, with debt servicing projected at 14.2% of the federal budget. (Proceso) (IMCO) (The Rio Times)

• Mexico’s Pemex aims to reenter capital markets post-election amid financial restructuring efforts. The state oil giant, burdened by $101.5B in debt, plans bond issuance after June 2025 elections pending favorable market conditions, with recent government support including $6.2B in tax relief and cost-cutting measures to stabilize operations. (Reuters) (Bloomberg) (El Financiero)

🇳🇮 Nicaragua

• UNESCO defended its relevance as Nicaragua exits over a press freedom award and U.S. questions neutrality. Nicaragua’s withdrawal, effective December 2026, followed UNESCO honoring exiled outlet La Prensa, which Managua denounced as foreign interference; the U.S., which rejoined in 2023, faces scrutiny over UNESCO’s impartiality. (EL PAÍS América) (UNESCO)

• Nicaragua’s central bank held its key rate at 6.25% in April 2025 to stabilize inflation amid 3.6% 2024 GDP growth and easing price pressures. Remittances and cautious policies supported economic resilience despite emigration and global financial strains. (Banco Central de Nicaragua) (IMF) (World Bank)

• Nicaragua’s Foreign Investment Law (No. 1240) streamlines registration via MIFIC and grants national investor parity to boost foreign capital, replacing a 1990s statute. The CNIE centralizes approvals while guaranteeing profit repatriation and currency convertibility, focusing on energy, agriculture, and tourism to align with economic growth goals. (Alvarado y Asociados) (Consortium Legal) (GCH Law)

🇵🇦 Panama

• Colombia granted asylum to ex-Panamanian President Ricardo Martinelli, allowing him to leave Nicaragua’s embassy in Panama after a year-long standoff. The 2019 money laundering convict initially sought Nicaraguan asylum, but Panama blocked transfer until Colombia intervened under international protections. (CNN) (Reuters)

• Panama extended fiscal incentives for tourism investments through 2025 to boost foreign capital and megaprojects. The policy offers a 100% income tax credit and import tax exemptions for projects outside Panama City, driving over $371M in hospitality developments in Bocas del Toro and Punta Chame. It aligns with Panama’s 2020–2025 Sustainable Tourism Master Plan to balance economic growth and environmental goals. (Investuramerica) (UNCTAD) (PRO Panama)

• Panama negotiates $2.45B in new loans, nearing $55B debt amid fiscal reforms. Debt hit $53.7B in January 2025, with a $1.3B Merrill Lynch loan at 4.46% interest addressing liquidity needs, while deficit targets aim to drop from 4% to 1.5% by 2030. (La Prensa Panamá) (Panama Advisory)

🇵🇾 Paraguay

• Paraguay ranks among Latam’s least decentralized nations, with subnational budgets rising just 12% since 2014 despite constitutional autonomy. Recent UNOPS-backed infrastructure projects and Ciudad del Este’s 2024-2030 development plan aim to address governance and resource gaps, though fiscal control remains centralized. (ABC Color) (Regions Unies) (UNOPS)

• Paraguay’s government proposes revising minimum wage calculations and the basic consumption basket to better align with living costs. The current CPI-based method, criticized for ignoring 20% annual food inflation since 2022, led to a 15% purchasing power gap, prompting union demands for a 20% wage increase. (Diario HOY) (La Nación)

🇵🇪 Peru

• Peru’s 30-day mining ban in Pataz will cost $200M in lost gold output amid violence tied to illegal operations, following the murder of 13 workers from Poderosa mine. Critics warn the suspension risks legal mining operations and deters investment, with 39 deaths linked to illegal mining since 2022. (MINING.COM) (BBC)

• Peru’s central bank cut rates by 25 basis points to 4.50% in May, extending its 325 basis points reduction since 2023 as inflation stabilized at 1.65% (within the 1-3% target). Policymakers signaled potential further easing amid subdued growth, with core inflation steady at 1.9% and economic activity softening slightly. (FocusEconomics) (Central Banking) (Trading Economics)

🇻🇪 Venezuela

• Venezuela and Russia deepened ties with a 10-year strategic partnership treaty targeting energy, defense, and circumventing Western sanctions, expanding Moscow’s influence in Latam. The pact includes joint oil projects and military cooperation, aligning with Russia’s alliances with Iran and North Korea, while Venezuela aims to revive its economy through increased oil output. (Reuters) (El País)

• Venezuela’s government and opposition clash over opposition members’ exit from Argentina’s embassy after 412-day shelter. Maduro’s administration asserts a negotiated departure, while U.S. and opposition sources allege a rescue operation amid worsening conditions and surveillance, reflecting regional divides as Argentina’s Milei and Brazil’s Lula take opposing stances on Maduro. (Reuters) (AP News) (BBC)

🇺🇸 Miami

• Marcelo Claure joined Brightstar Capital Partners as partner and co-chair to drive AI and middle-market growth for the $5B private equity firm. The telecom veteran and former SoftBank executive leverages his two-decade partnership with CEO Andrew Weinberg and expertise in global tech investments. (South Florida Business Journal) (Bloomberg)

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Funding

Yeda Health 🇧🇷 raised a $300K Seed Round with funding from OurCrowd LATAM Labs 🇺🇾 to develop personalized medicines for treating chronic diseases. The company uses artificial intelligence to control blood sugar levels through dietary adjustments, utilizing personal data and cutting-edge technology to provide customized nutrition solutions that meet patients' specific health needs.

e-CROSS 🇧🇷 raised a $300K Seed Round with funding from 500Global 🇺🇸 to build a D2C cross-border e-commerce platform focused on Latam. The company enables global brands to sell directly to consumers in Latam by simplifying localization, payments, logistics, and compliance.

Coalize 🇧🇷 raised a $570K Seed Round with funding from Westwood Capital 🇺🇸, Valor Ventures 🇺🇸, Urca Angels 🇧🇷, Grão 🇧🇷, and others to develop a performance management platform that eliminates manual HR processes. The company's solutions include electronic time tracking, digital employee onboarding, and automated time bank management, helping organizations transform their work environments into more efficient and healthy spaces.

Fintalk AI 🇧🇷 raised a $1.06M Later Stage VC Round with funding from HiPartners Capital&Work 🇧🇷 to operate an artificial voice intelligence platform intended to reduce service costs and increase efficiency. The company's platform specializes in using voice technology to serve customers and generate an uncomplicated, inclusive, and humanized digital transformation, enabling businesses to stay connected to their customers.

Nuvia 🇧🇷 raised a $1.7M Seed Round with funding from NXTP Ventures 🇦🇷, LASP Capital 🇧🇷, Gilgamesh Ventures 🇺🇸, a16z Scout Fund 🇺🇸, and others to develop an AI-based platform that accelerates sales growth for businesses. The company's platform offers AI agents that automate tasks, personalize interactions, and identify buying signals such as job changes and fundraising events, transforming this information into actionable tasks that enable businesses to make informed decisions.

Zapia 🇺🇾 raised a $7.25M Seed Extension Round with funding from Prosus Ventures 🇳🇱, Endeavor Catalyst 🇺🇸, Anthos Capital 🇺🇸, and Factory HQ 🇺🇸 and SNR.vc 🇺‍🇸 to develop an AI executive assistant operating via WhatsApp for the Latam market. The company's tool helps users in Latam save time and money by automating tasks, retrieving information, and managing communication directly within WhatsApp.

Vexi 🇲🇽 raised a $15.3M Debt Financing Round with funding from Covalto 🇲‍🇽 to provide credit cards and financial services to underserved segments in Mexico. The company uses alternative data and AI-powered credit scoring to offer competitive financial products to individuals without traditional credit history, fostering financial inclusion for young professionals and the emerging middle class.

Xante 🇲🇽 raised a $25.4M Debt Financing Round with funding from IDB Invest 🇺🇸 to expand its PropTech platform focused on the purchase and sale of used homes for low- and middle-income segments across Mexico. After acquiring Javer, Xante now operates in nine states, leveraging technology to streamline real estate transactions and become a leading player in affordable housing in Latam.

Credicuotas 🇦🇷 raised $33M in Debt Financing arranged by BIND Financial Solutions 🇦🇷, BIND Inversiones 🇦🇷, BST Banco de Servicios y Transacciones 🇦🇷, and Banco Patagonia 🇦🇷, as well as other participating institutions, to provide online consumer loans and financing solutions in Argentina. The company offers accessible, fully digital personal loans and merchant credit options to Argentine residents over 21 with formal income.

Clara 🇧🇷 raised an $80M Round, comprising $40M in Later Stage VC led by Citi Ventures 🇺🇸, with participation from Notable Capital 🇺🇸, monashees 🇧🇷, Kaszek 🇧🇷, DST Global 🇰🇾, Coatue 🇺🇸, and others, and $40M in Debt Financing from General Catalyst 🇺🇸 to streamline corporate expense management across Latam. Clara provides corporate cards, bill pay, financing, and spend management tools as it expands in Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia.

Acquisition News

• Visma 🇳🇴 acquired Lara AI 🇦🇷🇲🇽, an AI-powered HR assistant that helps identify employees with low engagement or at risk of departure while automating HR tasks through a conversational interface, to enhance its business software portfolio with advanced HR analytics and employee retention capabilities.

• Argano 🇺🇸 acquired NetLogistiK 🇲🇽, a provider of digital supply chain consulting services offering strategic advisory for business optimization, to enhance its digital transformation portfolio with specialized supply chain expertise while expanding its presence in the Latam market.

Startup & VC News

• Simma Capital 🇨🇴 announced receiving a $3M investment from Ruta N and Bancóldex for its new Simma Fintech+ fund, which plans to back 30 early-stage fintech startups developing high-impact technological solutions. This investment marks the first initiative of the Medellín Venture Capital program, positioning the city as a financial innovation hub in Latam while mobilizing capital toward early-stage startups crucial for inclusive economic growth. (Forbes Colombia)

• n1co 🇸🇻 announced accelerating its transformation into a Central American neobank, preparing its launch in Nicaragua while already operating in El Salvador, Honduras, and Guatemala with talks to expand into Caribbean markets and Colombia. This move follows closing 2024 with 100K active users and over $1B in transactions, fueled by a $23M funding round and an upcoming $25M raise, positioning n1co to drive financial inclusion and compete with traditional banks in Latam. (Estrategia & Negocios) (Pulso Capital)

• Magical 🇨🇱 announced a new $5M USD Latam VC fund to back disruptive early-stage startups and deepen its regional impact with follow-on investments and business consulting. This strengthens support for founders in fintech, retail, mining, and more across Latam. (Funds Society)

• 2025 Regional AI Report 🇧🇷🇲🇽🇦🇷🇨🇱 reveals Latam's AI adoption rate jumped 18% in 2024 to reach 40%, with potential to generate $1.8B annually by 2030. The region is developing locally-adapted AI solutions in fintech, agritech, and healthcare, with innovations like Mexico's Kapital for SME lending and Argentina's Kilimo saving 72B liters of water through AI-farming. JP Morgan estimates a $100B opportunity if Latam fully embraces AI, though infrastructure gaps remain significant barriers. (Hispanic Executive) (Latin America Reports)

Sociopolitical News

🇦🇷 Argentina

• The World Bank approved a $230M loan for Argentina to boost job creation through expanded training programs amid the country's economic recovery efforts. The funding will support "Fomentar Empleo" and "Volver al Trabajo" initiatives, benefiting 800,000 unemployed workers as part of a larger $12B support package announced last month. (Infobae) (El Universal) (Grupo la Provincia)

• Argentina’s government will eliminate export duties on over 4,400 industrial products, aiming to boost competitiveness and support nearly 3,600 companies-especially SMEs-amid a challenging economic climate. The measure, long demanded by industry groups, excludes key sectors like automotive and petrochemicals but is expected to benefit 88% of industrial exports, valued at $3.8B in 2024, and follows broader fiscal reforms under President Milei’s administration. (El Observador) (Buenos Aires Times) (Derecha Diario)

🇧🇷 Brazil

• The auction of four port terminals in Paranaguá and Rio de Janeiro attracted investments exceeding $430M, setting a sector record and making Paranaguá the first Brazilian port with 100% regularized areas. These terminals will double agricultural cargo capacity with 35-year contracts, strengthening Brazil's export competitiveness and logistics infrastructure. (Folhamax) (UOL) (Portos do Paraná)

• Brazil's agricultural sector shows strong recovery as Banco do Brasil secured $1.3B in rural credit deals while Agrishow generated $2.7B in machinery sales. These impressive figures at Brazil's premier farm exhibitions signal renewed producer confidence and technology adoption amid projections for a record grain harvest in 2025 after a challenging 2024. (Money Times) (Folha)

• Brazil’s poverty rate fell for the third year in a row, reflecting the cumulative effect of Lula’s revived social programs. The World Bank reports Brazilian poverty dropped to 27.4% in 2023 as 8.7M people exited poverty, driven by robust labor markets and an expanded Bolsa Família, while extreme poverty declined to 4.4%, its lowest level since 2012. (Diario do Centro do Mundo)(Swissinfo) (EFE)

🇨🇱 Chile

• The United States Trade Representative (USTR) added Chile to its 2025 Special 301 Priority Watch List, underscoring sustained IP enforcement concerns. This marks the 14th straight year on the list, reflecting U.S. concerns over persistent satellite piracy, limited copyright enforcement, and delays in pharmaceutical patent disputes under its 2004 FTA with the U.S. (CNN Chile) (Diario Financiero) (MegaNoticias)

🇨🇴 Colombia

• The Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean granted $127.9M to Banco de Occidente to finance SMEs’ trade operations and green ventures in Colombia. The bank will deploy the funds-including export pre-financing for Rainforest Alliance-certified Carcafe-and expand social inclusion, energy efficiency and green business credit, complementing its $75M CAF revolving line supporting 282 firms in 2024. (El Heraldo) (CAF)

• The Electoral Observation Mission (MOE) warns that a constitutional amendment to permit permanent party-switching threatens to erode Colombia’s party system and democratic accountability. It cautions that allowing legislators to change parties without losing their seats undermines voter mandates, fragments political cohesion and reverses 2003–2009 reforms after its Senate commission approval. (Misión de Observación Electoral) (Infobae)

• The prohibition of President Petro’s promotional spot by Colombia’s CRC intensifies debate over executive communication rights and participatory democracy. Petro alleged censorship and possible prevaricato when the regulator blocked government advertisements soliciting support for his Senate-pending consultation, prompting him to order legal filings and clarify that pre-approval promotion is constitutionally permitted. (Infobae) (Caracol) (Radio Nacional)

🇨🇷 Costa Rica

• Costa Rica launched a public–private “Innovation Hub” initiative to attract high-tech investment and accelerate economic growth. It combines government, academia and industry with IDB backing to expand the innovation ecosystem across medtech, software and semiconductors. (CRHoy)

• Costa Rica has earmarked roughly $190K to stimulate AI, technology, and life sciences projects, aiming to drive innovation and contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals. The call funds partnerships between companies and research units, aligning with the National AI Strategy’s R&D axis to pilot projects in health and agriculture. (DPL News)

• Costa Rica’s new three-month humanitarian permit lets roughly 200 Trump-era deportees from distant nations legally settle or depart, ending months of indefinite detention. The policy, returning passports and enabling integration, responds to ombudsman and rights groups’ pressure and aligns with IOM-supervised, U.S.-funded repatriation arrangements. (The New York Times)

🇩🇴 Dominican Republic

• A new three-year public trust will channel investment into the Dominican Republic’s aviation and space industries, cutting maintenance costs and training local engineers. Managed by Fiduciaria Reservas and led by Maj. Gen. Carlos Febrillet, the fideicomiso aims to develop MRO facilities, commercialize outputs and build on Law 57-23’s 50K-job forecast. (Diario Libre)

• The Dominican government boosted Q1 2025 inflation-fighting subsidies by 33.6%, underlining its commitment to price stability amid external shocks. It disbursed roughly $99M-83.9% for fuel and 14% for transport-and directed $198M to social programs like Aliméntate, reinforcing its adaptive protection framework. (Diario Libre)

• The Dominican Republic’s government stands to save approximately $1.5B this year due to falling oil prices and a stronger peso. Lower crude-averaging $59.55 vs the budgeted $81.30/barrel-alongside a 4.19-peso appreciation to RD$58.96/USD trims import costs, eases fiscal strains and dampens inflationary pressures. (N Digital) (El Dinero)

🇪🇨 Ecuador

• Ecuador’s protocol signing opens China’s dairy market, promising to boost an industry that supports over 500K jobs. It follows the FTA and inspections of six farms and three plants, aligning firms with GACC requirements. China absorbed US$4.64B of Ecuadorian exports in 2024, underscoring the new market’s strategic value. (El Universo) (TradingEconomics)

• The prospect of a free‐trade agreement between Ukraine and Ecuador signals a strategic deepening of ties across regions. President Zelenski congratulated President Noboa on his election and announced joint teams will study a free‐trade pact focusing on agricultural imports, digitalization and security cooperation under the Ukraine–Latam framework. (Swissinfo) (Banca y Negocios) (Vistazo)

• The Ecuadorian government and SolGold signed an Amended Investment Protection Agreement, safeguarding $311.5M in past investment and providing legal certainty for the Cascabel project. The AIPA unlocks Franco-Nevada/Osisko’s second financing tranche, grants ICC arbitration in London, and cements ESG, local employment and community development commitments under Ecuador’s COPCI regime. (El Universo) (StockTitan)

• Ecuador’s Noboa administration must secure nearly $7.9B in 2025 loans to cover a $2.5B fiscal gap and $5.4B debt repayments, raising funding doubts. High country-risk premia limit bond market access, heightening reliance on IMF and multilateral financing amid lower oil revenues and higher social spending. (Primicias) (Fitch Ratings)

🇸🇻 El Salvador

• Bukele offered Trump a 50% discount on prisoner fees at El Salvador’s mega-prison for deporting nine MS-13 leaders, signaling a political pact. Brokered by Ibrajim Bukele and U.S. official Michael Needham, it links $6M in prison funding to returning top MS-13 figures, underscoring judicial motives over cost-cutting. (El País US) (CNN)

• El Salvador remains committed to its Bitcoin reserve accumulation under an IMF $1.4B loan program. It has amassed ~6,165 BTC (~$600M) while meeting IMF-mandated fiscal and governance reforms without any restrictions on crypto purchases. (The Daily Hodl) (BeInCrypto)

• Fitch forecasts a slowdown in El Salvador's economic growth to 2.2% in 2025, reflecting continued fiscal challenges despite recent credit rating improvements. The projection represents a deceleration from the estimated 2.6% growth in 2024, while the IMF offers a slightly more optimistic outlook with a 2.47% forecast. The country's deficit is expected to improve significantly to 2.9% of GDP in 2025, down 1.8 percentage points from 2024, supported by the $1.4B IMF program. (Fitch Ratings) (IMF)

🇬🇹 Guatemala

• Guatemala’s Foreign Ministry disputed the US embassy’s report of a recent China-based hack, stating the breach occurred in September 2022. Detected during a joint US Southern Command audit, the intrusion persisted through February 2025, underscoring persistent cyber espionage risks from Beijing. (Reuters) (AP News)

• Guatemala advances export promotion strategy at its second CONAPEX meeting to enhance global market access. Officials assessed US trade benefits and WTO alignment to streamline exports, complementing data showing exports rose to $13.4B through November, up 2.7%, with four more CONAPEX sessions planned and port-sector reforms underway. (Ministry of Economy of Guatemala) (Ministry of Economy of Guatemala)

• The detention of Luis Pacheco, a key ally of President Bernardo Arevalo and deputy energy minister, marks an escalation in Guatemala’s political strife. Arrested on terrorism and illicit association charges alongside the movement’s treasurer, Pacheco’s detention drew Arevalo’s denunciation of judicial overreach after his role in protests against election challenges. (Reuters)

🇭🇳 Honduras

• Federal judge flags violation of due process in ICE's misleading deportation of a 2-year-old U.S. citizen to Honduras. Lawyers say ICE concealed options under its own guidelines, inducing mothers to consent; Honduran NGOs decry risks to child welfare amid high poverty. (Financial Express) (MSNBC)

• Workers in Honduras demand jobs and dignified wages amid an employment crisis, while businesses call for a national employment pact. Thousands marched calling for decent pay, healthcare and pensions; employers warn of 316K jobless and 1.6M in informal work, urging clear rules and a national pact to create formal jobs. (La Prensa) (Swissinfo)

• The rising cost of the basic food basket in Honduras, reaching L12.6K (approx. $508) in March 2025, now exceeds the minimum wage for many workers despite recent increases. This situation highlights a significant affordability gap, as some agricultural workers face a L3.5K (approx. $142) monthly shortfall even after a 5.5%-7% wage hike, with food inflation at 3.03% year-over-year. (La Prensa HN) (Trading Economics) (WageIndicator)

🇲🇽 Mexico

• Sheinbaum rejects Trump’s troop deployment offer to uphold Mexico’s sovereignty. The president declined a proposal to allow US Army operations on Mexican soil, offering joint intelligence-sharing instead and urging action to curb US-origin arms inflow that empowers cartels. (UnoTV) (El País) (Reuters)

• Mexico avoided a technical recession as Q1 2025 GDP rose 0.2% QoQ on agricultural strength. The primary sector jumped 8.1% while industrial output fell 0.3% and services stagnated, amplifying concerns that volatile farming gains mask broad weaknesses amid U.S. tariff uncertainties. (El Economista) (Mexico News Daily)

• Mexican bankers call for early USMCA renegotiations to update trade rules and safeguard domestic industries. They argue that outdated rules undermine post-pandemic recovery-Banxico cut 2025 growth from 1.5% to 0.6% amid tariff threats-and urge rule-of-origin and investment updates ahead of the 2026 review. (Border Report) (Credit Agricole)

🇳🇮 Nicaragua

• Ortega denounces Trump’s migrant policies and US sanctions, ending 100 days of silence and escalating bilateral tensions. After quietly accepting deportations and stepping back from an ICJ case, the Sandinista president lambasted family separations, 18% export tariffs, and bolstered ties with Russia and China in response to being deemed a US “adversary.” (EL PAÍS) (Tico Times)

• Ortega’s new conservation law repeals protections over 25% of Nicaragua’s territory, opening parks to mining, logging and hunting. It repeals the 2007 protected areas regulation, empowers Marena to resize boundaries and greenlight extractive projects, risking forest loss on top of the current 2.5% annual deforestation rate. (Confidencial) (Diálogo Américas)

• "If press freedom dies, we’re all left in the dark", warns La Prensa’s director. La Prensa has operated online from exile since Nicaraguan police seized its Managua offices in 2021 and its staff faced arrests, earning the UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize 2025 amid Nicaragua’s ranking among the world’s most repressive media environments. (RFI) (UNESCO) (RSF)

🇵🇦 Panama

• Protests erupted in Panama over a security Memorandum of Understanding with the U.S., which citizens say jeopardizes the canal’s sovereign control. Demonstrators contend the agreement breaches Panama’s neutrality clause and authorizes U.S. troop deployments near the canal amid strategic contestation with China. (AP News) (NewsroomPanama)

• Panamanian exporters face rising costs and order losses after U.S. imposes 10% tariffs. Importers are shifting higher duties onto suppliers, squeezing margins and triggering cancellations, while Panama’s MICI seeks exemptions under the TPC to safeguard shipments valued at $21.8M in early 2025 and sustain a projected $1B annual export target. (La Prensa Panamá) (La Estrella)

• Growing public backlash in Panama underscores deep-rooted environmental and governance concerns as the government considers reactivating megamining. President Mulino has dismissed “contract-law” concessions but proposals face criticism over a dated mining code, scant environmental monitoring and alleged rights violations of indigenous communities. (teleSUR) (AP News) (Mongabay)

🇵🇾 Paraguay

• Paraguay’s soy sector is caught in global tariff turbulence, threatening export revenues. As the third-largest exporter behind Brazil and the U.S., farmers endure price swings from U.S.–China duties, pivoting hopes toward rising Chinese demand via Brazil/Argentina amid favorable rains and looming EU deforestation rules by Dec 2025. (Reuters) (LatinAmericanPost)

• The $152M Q1 injection from Itaipú and Yacyretá royalties and energy cession bolsters Paraguay’s budget and local services. The funds-split equally between the central government and subnational entities-comprise $94.7M in royalties and $57.4M from energy transfers, of which 80% funds the national school‐feeding program. (ABC Color)

• Paraguay’s designation of Iran’s IRGC as a terrorist group and expansion to include Hamas and Hezbollah’s political wings marks a strategic escalation in Latam’s anti-terror efforts. President Peña called it a boost to security, and US and Israeli officials praised it for disrupting proxy funding in the Tri-Border area. (UPI) (US State Dept.)

🇵🇪 Peru

• Peru’s tax authority intensified debt recovery by seizing an additional $87M in Telefónica Perú assets. This follows an April 24 embargo of $139M tied to unpaid 2000–01 and 2009 Income Tax, as Sunat enforces payment while Telefónica guarantees uninterrupted service to its 13M+ users. (El Economista) (El Comercio)

🇻🇪 Venezuela

• A UN top court bars Venezuela from holding elections in Guyana’s contested Essequibo, marking a legal win for Georgetown. Venezuela has rejected the ICJ injunction and pushed ahead with May 25 polls, invoking historical claims as offshore oil discoveries near ExxonMobil’s Stabroek Block escalate tensions. (Washington Post) (Infobae) (AP News)

• Venezuela, squeezed by US secondary tariffs and Chevron’s exit, urged China to ramp up oil imports to offset collapsing output. March exports fell 11.5% to 805K bpd after tariffs and licence revocations, prompting Vice President Delcy Rodríguez to seek increased purchases and diluent from CNPC during her Beijing visit. (El Financiero) (Reuters) (Bloomberg)

• The Venezuelan government denounced a terrorist attack on its national electric grid, underscoring persistent infrastructure vulnerabilities amid political strife. Sabotage targeting four 230 kV towers in Aragua prompted rapid technical deployments to restore service and follows prior attacks blamed on opposition forces aiming to destabilize Maduro’s administration. (Milenio) (TeleSUR) (La Jornada)

🇺🇸 Miami

• The Port of Miami is deploying new customs strategies to cushion importers from Trump’s broad tariffs that risk slowing crucial trade flows. Firms are using bonded warehouses and foreign-trade zones to defer duties, while the port boosts capacity and forges Latam transshipment links to sustain cargo volumes. (CNN Español)

• The Miami Grand Prix is poised to inject $505M into South Florida’s economy in 2025. This builds on over $1B generated across the event’s first three runnings, which drew a record 275K attendees and 3.1M U.S. TV viewers, spotlighting F1’s U.S. growth push. (South Florida Business Journal) (WPTV)

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Funding

Soyio 🇺🇸🇨🇱 raised a $1M Pre-seed Round with funding from Consorcio 🇨🇱, Platanus 🇨🇱, devlabs 🇺🇸, and 99startups 🇩🇪 to develop a privacy platform that securely manages personal data and facilitates digital identity transitions. The company simplifies identity and consent management, enabling individuals and businesses to comply with strict privacy standards while generating auditable evidence and reducing fraud risks.

Nufi 🇲🇽 raised a $1.5M Seed Round with funding from GPCompas 🇲‍🇽, Magma Partners 🇺🇸, Semilla Ventures 🇲🇽, Ganas Ventures 🇺🇸, and others to provide AI-powered identity verification and background checks for individuals and businesses. Their platform validates identities using photo IDs, public records, judicial data, and social media, processing verifications in under 5 minutes through 100+ data sources to serve 330+ B2B clients across HR, real estate, finance, and security sectors.

Autograph 🇺🇸🇨‍🇱 raised a $2.6M, Pre-seed Round with funding from NFX 🇺‍🇸, Long Journey Ventures 🇺‍🇸, Embedding VC 🇺🇸 and Cibersons 🇵‍🇾 to develop an AI-powered platform for families to capture, preserve, and share life stories and legacies. The company uses AI-guided interviews to help users document personal histories, transforming them into easily shareable digital formats for future generations.

Homelend 🇧🇷 raised an $8M Debt Financing Round with funding from RBR Asset 🇧🇷 to provide financing and end-to-end support for custom-built homes. The company streamlines the entire home-buying process from financing options to final delivery, enabling customers to purchase personalized TecHome units without bureaucratic complications.

Smart Compass 🇨🇱 raised a $17M Debt Financing Round with funding from Itajubá Investimentos 🇧‍🇷 to acquire and manage distressed assets from credit unions across Latam. The company leverages data analytics and AI-driven platforms to optimize debt recovery processes, helping financial institutions stabilize their balance sheets while providing scalable solutions for the region's liquidity challenges.

Mombak 🇧🇷 raised a $17M Debt Financing with funding from Brazil's Climate Fund 🇧🇷 and Brazilian Development Bank 🇧🇷 to expand reforestation efforts in the Amazon rainforest. The company acquires degraded land to create biodiverse forests that generate high-quality carbon credits, helping companies offset their greenhouse gas emissions while restoring the Amazon ecosystem.

Acquisition News

• Fiserv 🇺🇸 acquired Money Money 🇧🇷, a credit fintech that connects investors with small and medium-sized businesses through a P2P lending platform offering loans, financial advisory, and investment management solutions to expand its presence in Latam and enhance its SMB financial services portfolio with digital lending capabilities.

• Moova 🇦🇷 acquired Vonzu 🇪🇸, a developer of logistics management platforms with smart routing, tracking, and operations tools for retailers and delivery operators, to expand its last-mile delivery capabilities into Europe and enhance its technological stack with advanced route optimization and operations digitalization features.

Startup & VC News

• Mexican Government 🇲🇽 announced launching "Ventanilla Digital Nacional," reducing startup registration from 51 procedures to 32 and slashing processing time from 8.5 days to 24 hours. This overhaul eliminates 70% of bureaucratic hurdles and aligns with Mexico’s goal to rank among Latam’s top 3 tech hubs by 2030. (El Comentario del Día) (Gobierno de México)

• Central Bank of Brazil 🇧🇷 announced updated Open Finance guidelines mandating participation for institutions with over 5M clients and expanding data-sharing to investment portfolios, forex operations, and frictionless payments. This regulatory overhaul empowers fintechs to access 47M+ active consents and challenges traditional banks’ data monopolies, accelerating hyper-personalized financial services across LatAm’s largest economy. (DGABC) (ATAC Santos)

• Nowports 🇲🇽 announced the appointment of Fernando Poitevin as its new CEO, while cofounder Alfonso de los Ríos transitions to President role, marking the first time a non-founder leads a Mexican unicorn. This leadership change aims to accelerate the $1.1B logistics startup's operational transformation and AI-driven solutions across Latam. (IT Masters Mag) (Grupo T21)

• Kavak 🇲🇽 announced raising $127M at a $2.2B valuation, marking a 75% drop from its previous $8.7B peak to strengthen its auto credit business. The former Latam unicorn champion exemplifies a broader market correction, with nearly half of 2021's unicorns facing significant devaluations when raising capital in today's tighter funding environment. (Bloomberg)

Sociopolitical News

🇦🇷 Argentina

• The IMF keeps Argentina's 2025 growth forecast at 2.3%, but analysts warn fiscal tightening could spark recession and half the board doubts loan sustainability. Concerns focus on Argentina’s debt repayment, persistent 140% inflation, and risk of economic contraction from reduced public spending. (Infobae) (EL PAÍS Argentina)

• Argentina's economy grows 5.7% year-on-year in February 2025, signaling recovery after austerity measures. The fourth consecutive monthly expansion reflects improving conditions in Latin America's third-largest economy, bolstered by President Javier Milei's fiscal reforms despite earlier challenges. (Reuters)

• Argentina's transition to a managed float exchange rate (1,000–1,400 ARS/USD) shows initial market stability despite risks of future volatility. Economists praise the orderly adjustment but warn of challenges as Argentinians adapt to currency fluctuations, with some criticizing premature government interventions in exchange markets. (Clarín)

🇧🇷 Brazil

• Brazil and Chile’s presidents agreed to expand bilateral trade, highlighting $11.7B in exchanges for 2024. Both leaders pledged to reinforce economic ties, with Lula advocating for a fairer trade balance through more Brazilian imports of Chilean goods. (Agência Brasil)

• Brazil’s new Trade Reciprocity Law allows swift tariffs or barriers against countries-especially the U.S.-that target Brazilian exports, intensifying global trade tensions. A direct response to the Trump administration’s new 25% tariffs on Brazilian steel and aluminum (worth $3.2B), the law gives Brazil fast-track authority to mirror such sanctions and signals stronger protectionist policies amid rising international trade disputes. (Brasil 247) (Agência Brasil)

🇨🇱 Chile

• IMF lowers Chile's 2025 growth forecast to 2%, amplifying pressure on Finance Minister Mario Marcel to implement fiscal cuts amid a regional slowdown. The adjustment reflects global economic headwinds and domestic challenges, though Chile’s fiscal and monetary policies remain praised by analysts. Latin America’s overall growth is projected at 2%, aligning with Chile’s revised outlook. (BioBio Chile)

• Chile's pension regulator is consulting on target-date fund reforms (Law 21.735) to replace existing funds with glide-path portfolios, mandating 5–10% allocations to alternatives like private equity. The move could funnel $1.2B–$2.4B yearly into alternatives by 2030, aligning with OECD trends. (Alessandri Legal)

• Chile's President Gabriel Boric emphasizes strategic autonomy and balanced trade with both the US and China during his Brazil visit, while criticizing far-right political movements. The stance reflects a growing Latin American trend towards non-alignment in global power struggles and highlights regional economic priorities. (BioBioChile Televisión) (EL PAÍS Chile).

🇨🇴 Colombia

• Colombia must meet IMF fiscal and policy benchmarks to maintain its $17.8 billion Flexible Credit Line, a critical safeguard against global economic shocks. The conditions emphasize containing fiscal deficits, stabilizing public debt, and preserving central bank independence amid inflation challenges. (El Espectador)

• Shell exits Colombia after over a century, marking the departure of the last global oil major and dissolving its gas partnership with state-owned Ecopetrol. The move concludes a strategic shift from Colombia's hydrocarbon sector and follows five other multinational energy firms' exits since 2019. (La República) (El Tiempo).

🇨🇷 Costa Rica

• Costa Rica's Central Bank plans to reform the deposit guarantee fund by increasing financial institution contributions and allowing domestic investments in government bonds. The proposal aims to reduce the fund's maturation period from over 40 years to a shorter timeframe and mitigate exchange rate risks that caused ₡34 million in losses last year. (Actualidad Tributaria)

• CORE and Mercado de Valores launch Costa Rica's first real estate development investment fund to finance the $54.6M SECRT Escalante tower in San José. The closed-end fund begins with $18.7M initial capital and targets institutional investors seeking compliance with pension fund regulations. (Revista Summa)

🇩🇴 Dominican Republic

• Dominican Republic maintains fuel prices for key products despite global oil market volatility, allocating a RD$151.1M ($2.5M) subsidy for LPG stability. This marks the fourth consecutive week of stable prices as the government has spent over RD$1.8B ($30M) on subsidies since January to shield consumers from market fluctuations. (Diario Libre)

• The Dominican Republic is set to be one of Latin America’s fastest-growing economies in 2025, with 4% GDP growth forecasted by the World Bank. This outpaces most of the region, driven by tourism and investment, despite broader regional slowdown and external risks. (Diario Libre) (World Bank)

• Dominican Republic's exports grew 12.16% to $3.17B in Q1 2025, with free zones contributing 63% of the total. Medical instruments ($452M) and tobacco ($303M) led free zone exports, while national exports rose 29.7% to $1.1B. The U.S. remained the top destination, with Haiti and India showing significant growth. (Diario Libre) (ProDominicana)

🇪🇨 Ecuador

• The Organization of American States (OAS) has confirmed the legitimacy of Ecuador's presidential election, despite allegations of fraud from the opposition. The OAS found no evidence of widespread irregularities, aligning with the European Union's assessment, while Luisa González demanded a recount, calling the results "grotesque" fraud. (La Silla Vacía) (OAS) (CNN)

🇸🇻 El Salvador

• El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele proposed a prisoner swap with Venezuela, offering to repatriate 252 Venezuelan deportees in exchange for an equal number of "political prisoners." This move highlights tensions between the two nations, with Venezuela rejecting the offer and labeling it "cynical" while demanding the unconditional release of the deportees, whom they claim are not criminals. (CNN) (Reuters) (DW)

🇬🇹 Guatemala

• The Guatemala-Peru FTA unlocks $146M in annual export potential, benefiting Guatemalan agriculture and manufacturing sectors. The modernized agreement has driven bilateral trade to $250M in 2024 (+20.5% YoY), with preferential access for 366 SMEs and updated tariff schedules. (Prensa Libre) (Mineco Guatemala)

• Guatemala launched its largest energy tender (PEG-5-2025), targeting 1,400 MW of guaranteed power to meet rising demand from AI, EVs, and industrial growth. The $4B-$5B initiative prioritizes renewables and natural gas while expanding transmission infrastructure to prevent shortages. (ALTA) (PV Magazine)

🇭🇳 Honduras

• Honduras' Q1 2025 remittances surged 25% YoY to $2.6B, bolstering economic stability. These inflows, now 25% of GDP, were primarily from the U.S. (85%) with most funds supporting essential household needs. The World Bank projects continued dependency despite slowing economic growth. (Findev Gateway) (Tiempo)

• The IMF endorsed Honduras' economic resilience, approving a $155M disbursement following successful reforms. The country maintained 3.6% GDP growth in 2024 while controlling inflation at 4.5%, supported by public investment and fiscal discipline under President Castro's administration. (IMF) (Prensa Latina)

🇲🇽 Mexico

• The IMF projects Mexico's economy to contract 0.3% in 2025 due to U.S. tariffs, significantly downgrading growth expectations. This revision reflects weakened trade and tighter financial conditions, while President Sheinbaum maintains optimism about economic resilience despite analysts' recession concerns. (Infobae) (El Economista)

• Mexico launches $298B investment portfolio with 1,937 projects representing 16% of GDP. The Prosperidad Compartida initiative focuses on manufacturing, energy, and infrastructure across key states, with major corporations participating despite administrative challenges. (Gob.mx) (Milenio)

• Mexican President Sheinbaum signals willingness to revise controversial telecoms bill after widespread censorship concerns. The legislation's Article 109, which critics say enables state control over digital platforms, drew opposition from the UN and free speech advocates, prompting the president to consider modifications. (Reuters) (UN Human Rights)

🇳🇮 Nicaragua

• Nicaragua's constitutional reform cements Ortega-Murillo family rule through unprecedented power consolidation. The changes establish co-presidencies with six-year terms, eliminate democratic checks, and create paramilitary forces, institutionalizing authoritarianism and dynastic succession. (La Prensa Panamá)

🇵🇦 Panama

• Donald Trump’s call for free US passage through the Panama and Suez canals highlights renewed US ambitions over key trade routes. Trump’s directive to waive fees for US ships has sparked diplomatic pushback from Panama, which asserts control over canal access, amid broader concerns about sovereignty and rising global tensions. (The Guardian) (Politico Europe)

• Panama’s National Assembly is revisiting crypto regulation to boost fintech innovation and attract investment. The new bill proposes a digital assets council, voluntary crypto payments, and stricter anti-money laundering measures, following a previous partial veto in 2022. (La Estrella de Panamá) (CoinSwitch)

• Panama leads Latin America in economic growth for 2025, with GDP set to rise 3–4.5% and the region’s lowest inflation. Strong logistics and finance sectors drive this momentum, while investor confidence is reinforced by credit rating upgrades and FDI growth, though structural reforms remain needed. (Ministerio de Economía y Finanzas de Panamá)

🇵🇾 Paraguay

• Mercosur’s trade bloc is shielding Paraguay from US tariff impacts, supporting its export-driven growth. With 63% of exports going to Brazil and Argentina, Paraguay’s economy remains resilient, and 2025 GDP is projected to rise 4% despite global trade tensions. (Buenos Aires Times) (MercoPress)

🇵🇪 Peru

• The IMF and World Bank doubt Peru’s MEF projection of 4% GDP growth for 2025, expecting closer to 3% despite deregulation efforts. Global institutions cite ongoing political uncertainty and slow private investment recovery, urging deeper structural reforms for stronger growth. (Revista Economía) (IMF) (World Bank)

🇻🇪 Venezuela

• Vitol is rapidly increasing Venezuelan oil purchases-over 2.5M barrels in April-before its US license expires in May, aiming to profit from discounted crude amid tightening sanctions. While US firms pull back, Vitol’s move highlights shifting trade dynamics as Venezuela seeks new buyers and introduces new oil blends to sustain exports. (Bloomberg) (Reuters)

• Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez’s visit to China strengthens a key alliance focused on oil, technology, and space amid U.S. sanctions. China remains Venezuela’s top trading partner and oil buyer, while both nations expand cooperation in infrastructure and space technology. (El Universal) (Venezuelanalysis)

🇺🇸 Miami

• Miami has asked Florida’s new DOGE agency to audit its finances for waste and fraud, reflecting increased scrutiny of local government spending. This follows recent scandals and aligns with a statewide push for efficiency as federal funds decline. (GovTech) (NBC Miami)

• South Florida’s real estate market in April 2025 is shifting to favor buyers as inventory rises and prices moderate. Listings are up over 30% year-over-year, sales are slower, and average discounts reach 2–4%, giving buyers more leverage amid high mortgage rates and living costs. (Negocio Miami) (Fortune Christie’s)

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Funding

AdmiralONE 🇨🇱 raised a $462K Angel Round with funding from angel investors to build a RegTech (SaaS B2B) platform that automates regulatory compliance and risk management for businesses. The platform leverages AI and automation to simplify complex regulatory requirements, enabling companies to reduce manual workloads, ensure real-time compliance, and mitigate operational risks with scalable SaaS solutions.

Altis 🇧🇷 raised a $3M Seed Round with funding from Magma Partners 🇨‍🇱 and Latitud 🇧🇷 to build an online lending platform that connects borrowers with investors through fast, fraud-resistant credit solutions. The platform leverages data-driven risk assessment to accelerate loan approvals, enabling businesses to access capital efficiently and scale revenue streams.

Divibank 🇧🇷 raised an $8.2M Later Stage VC Round with funding from Better Tomorrow Ventures 🇺🇸, RaliCap 🇺🇸, Presight Capital 🇺🇸, MAYA Capital 🇧🇷 as well as from other funds. to expand its data-driven financing platform that provides non-dilutive capital for SMEs to fund digital marketing, supplier payments, and inventory, with repayments tied to future revenue. Divibank’s flexible, revenue-based model and payment orchestration product, Divibank Pay, help entrepreneurs grow without diluting equity or straining cash flow, integrating multiple payment processors to optimize costs and streamline operations for Latin American businesses.

Finaktiva 🇨🇴 raised a $10M Debt Financing Round with funding from BBVA Spark 🇪🇸 to develop a digital platform that manages cash flow, liquidity, and financing for high-impact startups and SMEs in Colombia. Finaktiva offers a comprehensive suite of financial services—including cash management, supply chain finance, and timely credit—helping companies access fast funding, immediate liquidity, and streamlined supplier payments for growth and operational efficiency.

Belvo 🇲🇽 raised a $15M Series B Round with funding from Y Combinator 🇺🇸, Quona Capital 🇺🇸, Kibo Ventures 🇪🇸, Kaszek 🇧‍🇷, Future Positive 🇺🇸, and Citi Ventures 🇺🇸 to develop a financial API platform that connects data streams, analyzes user behavior, and enables secure money movement. Belvo’s open finance infrastructure allows businesses to access and interpret banking data programmatically, helping companies optimize financial operations, launch innovative products, and unlock new revenue opportunities through unified API integration.

Onfly 🇧🇷 raised a $40M Series B Round with funding from Tidemark 🇺🇸, Left Lane Capital 🇺🇸, and Endeavor Catalyst 🇺🇸 to streamline corporate travel spending with an AI-driven platform for booking hotels, flights, and rentals within company policy frameworks. Onfly’s solution automates expense tracking, reduces reimbursement workloads, and enforces budget compliance, empowering businesses to cut travel costs by up to 30% while improving employee productivity through seamless trip management.

Toku 🇨🇱 raised a $48M Series A Round with funding from Oak HC/FT 🇺🇸, Y Combinator 🇺🇸, Honey Island Capital 🇧🇷, Gradient 🇺🇸, F-Prime Capital 🇺🇸, and Clocktower Group 🇺🇸 to automate and optimize recurring payment collections for enterprises across Latam. The company’s AI-powered platform integrates with ERPs and payment systems to streamline invoicing, reconciliation, and omnichannel customer communication, reducing late payments by up to 80% while boosting operational efficiency.

Kavak 🇲🇽 raised a $527M funding Round (including $400M in debt financing and $127M in private equity) with funding from HSBC 🇬🇧, Goldman Sachs 🇺🇸, SoftBank 🇯🇵, and General Atlantic 🇺🇸 to transform Latam's used car market through a tech-driven platform that simplifies buying, selling, and financing pre-owned vehicles. The company guarantees quality with refurbished cars, AI-powered pricing, and integrated services like warranties and doorstep delivery, creating a transparent, end-to-end experience that eliminates traditional dealership hassles.

Acquisition News

• AdmiralONE 🇨🇱 acquired Confiden 🇨🇱, a software consulting and whistle-blower channel service, and GeniaControl 🇨🇱, a risk management and legal compliance platform for contractor/labor documentation, to expand its RegTech SaaS platform with integrated whistle-blower systems and AI-driven contractor compliance tools, solidifying its position as Chile’s leading automated regulatory compliance solution for Latin American markets.

• ActiveCampaign 🇺🇸 acquired Hilos 🇲🇽, a developer of WhatsApp automation tools for sales, support, and operations workflows, to integrate native WhatsApp messaging capabilities into its marketing automation platform, enabling seamless cross-channel customer experiences and AI-driven conversational marketing at scale.

• Achilles 🇬🇧 acquired InfoControl 🇦🇷, a specialist in AI-powered contractor documentation analysis and compliance tools for supply chains, to strengthen its AI-driven risk management platform with advanced data extraction capabilities, multilingual reporting, and automated supplier onboarding solutions. This acquisition accelerates Achilles' mission to deliver intelligent, ethical supply chain insights amid growing global sustainability and regulatory pressures.

• Grupo Financiero Banorte 🇲🇽 acquired RappiCard 🇨🇴🇲🇽, a digital credit card platform offering no-annual-fee cards, cashback, and seamless integration with the Rappi app, to take full control of their joint venture, boost digital cross-selling, and secure a 15-year exclusive partnership as the financial provider within the Rappi ecosystem in Mexico.

Startup & VC News

• TechCrunch 🇺🇸 announced the opening of applications for the 2025 Startup Battlefield 200, a premier global pitch competition at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 in San Francisco, October 27-29. This event offers early-stage startups a chance to win a $100K equity-free prize and gain exposure to top VCs. Notably, Latam startups like Salva Health (Colombia), Ripio (Argentina), Jefa (Mexico), and Olho do Dono (Brazil) have leveraged the competition to achieve international success, securing significant funding and global recognition. Applications close June 9, 2025, with selected startups receiving extensive perks including free exhibit space and networking opportunities. This platform is crucial for Latam startups seeking global visibility and investor connections. (TechCrunch) (TechCrunch)

• Brubank 🇦🇷 partnered with Pismo 🇧🇷 (Visa-acquired paytech) to launch next-gen credit features in Argentina/LatAm using Pismo’s cloud platform—including instant spend alerts, virtual cards, customizable due dates, and enhanced security controls. The deal marks Pismo’s Argentine debut and accelerates Brubank’s digital leadership with Visa’s backing. (Inversor Latam) (LatAm Tech Weekly)

• Arca Continental 🇲🇽 invested in Sensify 🇦🇷 via AC Ventures to integrate AI-driven “Cooler Eye” tech (computer vision for real-time refrigeration optimization), boosting product availability, POS performance, and consumer experience. (El Economista) (Eje Central)

• Nu México 🇲🇽 announced receiving regulatory approval to become a full-service bank in Mexico, enabling it to expand beyond credit cards and savings into payroll, insurance, and investment products. This move positions Nu to directly challenge the country’s largest banks and accelerate digital banking adoption among its 10 million+ customers. (Diario Puntual) (El Economista)

Sociopolitical News

🇦🇷 Argentina

• Argentina lifts most capital controls, allowing free dollar purchases and a floating exchange band to stabilize its economy. The peso now trades between 1,000–1,400 per USD, with central bank reserves rising 56% to $38.6B, though economists warn of potential inflation risks. (BBC News) (Infobae) (Perfil)

• Mercado Libre invests $2.6B in Argentina for 2025, a 53% increase, to boost e-commerce and create 2,000 jobs. The plan includes logistics expansion, pharmacy sales, and food delivery, aligning with its $13.2B Latam strategy. (Bloomberg Linea) (Forbes Argentina)

• Brazilian neobank Inter enters Argentina's digital banking market, targeting 16M unbanked adults with cross-border services. Offering credit cards, USD investments, and Pix payments, it challenges local leaders Ualá and Brubank, which hold 88% market share, amid renewed fintech interest after Nubank's stalled 2019 entry. (Forbes Argetina)

• Fitch considers upgrading Argentina's sovereign debt rating from "CCC" due to economic reforms and a $20B IMF deal. Reforms include currency control removal, a managed exchange rate, and deregulation, which have significantly reduced inflation from 25.5% to under 3%. (Ámbito) (IMF) (Reuters)

🇧🇷 Brazil

• Brazil hit a record 1.4M new small businesses in Q1 2025, highlighting strong entrepreneurship and effective pro-business policies. A 35% jump in micro-entrepreneurs and simplified regulations fueled growth, with 47M now engaged in business nationwide. (Secretaría de Comunicación Social) (Agência Brasil)

• China and Brazil are advancing a $3.5B, 4,400 km Bioceanic Corridor rail project to link the Atlantic and Pacific, cutting Asian trade costs by 30% and bypassing the Panama Canal. The route connects Brazil’s Santos port to Peru’s Chancay megaport via Bolivia, with China leading technical studies, and up to $20B in further funding discussed for Amazon-linked expansions. (CNN Brasil) (La República) (Oxford Business Group) (SCMP)

• DiDi-owned 99 will invest R$1B ($200M) to expand in Brazil and relaunch 99Food, intensifying food delivery competition. The move adds food delivery to 99’s services, with 99Food returning mid-2025 after its 2023 exit, while legal issues persist over its suspended motorcycle taxi operations in São Paulo. (Agência Brasil) (Valor International) (Agência Brasil) (Valor International)

🇨🇱 Chile

• Chile launched a $950M plan to finish the 2,400 km Bioceanic Road Corridor, aiming to cut South America–Asia cargo transit by up to 10 days and boost trade. The initiative features 22 infrastructure upgrades and seeks to rival the Panama Canal, with partial operations set for 2030 and regional coordination underway. (MercoPress) (Buenos Aires Times) (The Rio Times)

• Chile's Central Bank sees inflation near 5% in 2025, converging to 3% by early 2026, with higher GDP growth driven by strong exports and demand. The 2025 GDP growth forecast is raised to 1.75%-2.75%, supported by copper exports, though global risks remain; inflation is expected to fall to 3.8% by end-2025. (Tiempo21) (Banco Central de Chile) (OECD)

🇨🇴 Colombia

• A FARC dissident attack in Mondomo, Cauca killed a woman and injured several, underscoring ongoing violence in southwestern Colombia. The Jaime Martínez front is blamed, with authorities offering a COP 300M (~$76K) reward as calls grow to protect civilians. (El Colombiano) (El País) (Infobae)

• Remittances to Colombia are set to hit a record $13B in 2025, overtaking oil as the top source of foreign currency. Growth is fueled by emigration, strong U.S./Spanish economies, and a weaker peso, but future U.S. migration policies could impact this trend. (La República)

• Colombia will issue two new external debt bonds on the NYSE to raise up to $3.6B for its 2025 financial plan. The 2030 and 2035 bonds help meet $8.2B in foreign currency needs amid high debt service and fiscal consolidation. (Valora Analitik) (Itaú)

🇨🇷 Costa Rica

• Costa Rica’s foreign direct investment (FDI) hit a record $4.32B in 2024, up 14% from 2023, driven by strong growth in manufacturing, free trade zones, and regional diversification. The country surpassed its investment targets by 37%, attracted 61 new projects (with 16 outside the capital region), and saw exports rise 8% to $30.56B, reinforcing its position as the fastest-growing OECD economy for two years. (Newswire) (The Rio Times)

• Costa Rica’s top electoral court ordered President Rodrigo Chaves to halt political campaigning and partisan rhetoric, warning of criminal charges for violating government neutrality before the 2026 elections. The TSE is investigating Chaves for alleged political belligerence and misuse of public resources, giving him three days to respond and threatening removal or disqualification if found guilty. (The Tico Times)

• Costa Rica’s attorney general accuses President Chaves and Culture Minister Rodríguez of abusing office by steering a $405K CABEI-funded contract to political allies, seeking to lift the president’s immunity. Prosecutors allege $32K in kickbacks went to a former adviser; the Supreme Court will decide if the case proceeds, with both officials facing up to 8 years if convicted. (Reuters) (Tico Times)

• Special Representative Qiu Xiaoqi’s Costa Rica visit boosted bilateral ties amid 5G policy friction and U.S. visa sanctions. Talks reaffirmed the one-China principle and economic cooperation as Costa Rica faced U.S. visa revocations over Chinese 5G involvement. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China) (Fundación Andrés Bello)

🇩🇴 Dominican Republic

• NYC Mayor Eric Adams visited the Dominican Republic to honor the 231 victims of the Jet Set nightclub roof collapse, one of the nation’s deadliest disasters. The April 8 tragedy killed prominent figures, injured 225+, and sparked investigations and legal action as NYC’s Dominican community mourns. (Spectrum News) (BBC)

• The Dominican government has proposed merging the Economy and Finance ministries to streamline administration and centralize fiscal oversight. The new Ministry of Finance and Economy would control macroeconomic policy and key agencies, while some planning roles shift to the Presidency. (Dominican Today) (GlobalSource Partners)

• The Dominican peso has appreciated 2.3–2.5% against the US dollar so far in 2025, ranking fifth among Latin American currencies and boosting local purchasing power. This strengthening reflects increased confidence in the Dominican economy, effective Central Bank policies, and factors like sovereign bond placements and reduced dollar demand, which have stabilized the exchange rate amid global challenges. (Dominican Today)

🇪🇨 Ecuador

• Daniel Noboa won re-election as Ecuador’s president with 55.6% of the vote, delivering a historic defeat to Rafael Correa’s leftist movement and signaling public rejection of its return. Noboa’s moderate, tough-on-crime stance appealed to voters weary of crime and political division, while Citizen Revolution’s divisive tactics and failed alliances hurt its chances. (La Silla Vacía) (AS/COA) (BBC)

• Ecuador has asked Trump’s U.S. administration for military aid—including a possible base, arms, and private security—to fight rising crime and drug trafficking. President Noboa seeks constitutional changes for foreign bases, revived U.S. presence in Manta, Blackwater training, and secured a $64M U.S. rifle sale amid record violence and ongoing security talks. (Infobae) (Swissinfo) (CNN Español)

🇸🇻 El Salvador

• The U.S. wrongly deported Salvadoran resident Kilmar Ábrego to El Salvador’s CECOT prison, sparking a diplomatic crisis over immigration errors and rights violations. Despite court protection, Ábrego remains isolated amid unproven gang claims, while the U.S. pays El Salvador $15M/year to detain deportees; Senator Van Hollen demands his return. (El Espectador) (DW)

🇬🇹 Guatemala

• Trump's 10% tariffs on Guatemalan exports could cost $84M in two months, threatening key agricultural trade. Guatemala says the move violates DR-CAFTA and could hurt jobs and raise U.S. prices, as it supplies 40% of U.S. banana imports. (Prensa Libre)

• Guatemala's SAT ramps up customs reforms to ease U.S. tariff tensions threatening $4.6B exports. The new superintendent targets streamlined taxpayer services, anti-smuggling analytics, and port efficiency, while President Arévalo pursues diplomatic fixes to avoid CAFTA-DR breaches. (Prensa Libre) (Latam FDI)

🇭🇳 Honduras

• The UN urged Honduras to halt criminalization of peasants advocating for land access, emphasizing risks to human rights amid decades-long agrarian conflicts. This call, marking World Peasant Struggle Day (April 17), highlights systemic violence, evictions, and over 200 deaths in Tocoa’s land disputes, with criminal groups and officials implicated in destabilizing rural communities. (El Heraldo) (Swissinfo) (Hondudiario)

🇲🇽 Mexico

• Mexico refuses to restore ties with Ecuador while Noboa is president, citing the 2024 embassy raid. Sheinbaum blames Noboa for the embassy breach to arrest ex-VP Glas and questions the election's fairness, echoing OEA and opposition concerns. (El País) (Mexico News Daily) (Anadolu Agency)

• Fitch affirmed Mexico’s 'BBB-' rating with a stable outlook but flagged fiscal risks from Pemex’s debt and uncertainty over Sheinbaum’s economic plan. The agency noted U.S. trade reliance, a forecasted 0.4% GDP drop in 2025, and public debt rising to 54.3% of GDP, questioning the feasibility of Sheinbaum’s "Plan México." (Proceso) (La Jornada) (Infobae) (Bloomberg Línea) (Expansión)

🇳🇮 Nicaragua

• Nicaragua’s new Foreign Investment Law No. 1240 aims to attract foreign capital but centralizes control under the Ortega-Murillo regime, raising asset security concerns. The law requires state registration and permits arbitration, with 2024 FDI at $3.4B (15.4% of GDP) but a $323.9M Q4 drop; the U.S. warns of expropriation risks amid instability. (Agenda Propia Nicaragua) (The World Law Group) (Prensa Latina)

• The U.S. imposed visa restrictions on 250+ Nicaraguan officials, intensifying pressure on Ortega’s regime for ongoing repression. Over 2,000 officials have been sanctioned since 2021, as Ortega consolidates power and international sanctions mount. (The Hill) (Reuters)

🇵🇦 Panama

• U.S. boosts military presence in Panama to counter Chinese influence over canal infrastructure under a new security deal. The agreement permits rotational troops and joint drills at former U.S. bases, excludes permanent stations, and follows BlackRock’s $22.8B purchase of HK-operated port assets, drawing criticism from China. (Infobae) (Army Recognition) (Tico Times) (IRIS France)

• Panama City is the first in Panama to accept crypto like Bitcoin and Ethereum for tax payments, signaling regional financial innovation. The city partnered with Towerbank to convert crypto to USD, modernizing services without new laws and echoing moves in El Salvador and Colorado. (La Republica) (Nasdaq) (CoinDesk)

🇵🇾 Paraguay

• Paraguay's Central Bank raises 2025 GDP forecast to 4% and keeps its 3.5% inflation target, citing strong construction, services, and livestock, but cuts agriculture growth to 0.6% due to drought-hit soybeans. Monetary policy remains steady despite regional rate hikes and temporary food inflation. (MarketData) (MercoPress) (Riotimes)

🇵🇪 Peru

• Peru’s new law forces independent media and NGOs with foreign funding to get government approval before publishing, raising major press freedom concerns. Critics say it enables state censorship, threatens editorial independence, and allows fines up to $720K, with oversight now under the presidency. (La Silla Vacía) (Amnesty International) (Human Rights Watch)

• Peru’s ex-president Ollanta Humala and his wife Nadine Heredia were sentenced to 15 years for laundering nearly $3M in illicit campaign funds, underscoring ongoing corruption woes. Humala was detained while Heredia sought asylum, both deny guilt and plan to appeal amid fallout from the Odebrecht scandal. (La Jornada) (BBC) (Al Jazeera)

• China is pushing a $10–15B rail and port project to link Brazil with Peru’s Chancay megaport, aiming to shift trade away from the Panama Canal. The Bioceanic Corridor, backed by Brazil-China agreements, would speed up exports to Asia and reshape regional trade. (El Imparcial) (Milenio) (ORCASIA)

🇻🇪 Venezuela

• Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has called on the "armed people," including workers and the Bolivarian Militia, to march nationwide on May 1 to display unity and military readiness amid political tensions. This comes after his disputed third-term inauguration, with critics questioning military politicization and promotions. (Infobae)

• Trump reinstates Venezuela oil sanctions and tariffs, intensifying economic strain on Maduro’s regime. The move hits Chevron and Repsol, causing currency drops, inflation, and disrupted oil exports as Venezuela depends on crude. (Bloomberg Línea) (CNN)

• The U.S. Supreme Court has paused the Trump administration’s deportation of Venezuelan migrants accused of gang ties under the Alien Enemies Act, citing due process concerns. The move follows ACLU appeals over migrants in Texas facing removal without adequate legal review, raising constitutional issues about executive power and migrant rights. (Reuters) (The New York Times) (Los Angeles Times)

🇺🇸 Miami

• Miami startups raised $900M in Q1 2025, reinforcing the city’s top 10 U.S. VC hub status amid a tough national market. With 67 deals—led by Flex ($225M), One Amazon ($105M), and Open Blue Cobia ($98.7M)—Miami made up 73% of Florida’s VC value, as investors favored large, high-quality rounds in AI and fintech despite no major exits. (Refresh Miami)

• Trump’s attacks on Fed Chair Powell, amid a Supreme Court case on firing agency heads, threaten the Fed’s political independence—a pillar of U.S. economic stability. Experts warn this could unsettle markets, raise borrowing costs, and deepen uncertainty, while legal questions remain over presidential removal powers. (Local 10) (AP News) (New York Times)

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Funding

MT Bank 🇧🇷 raised an $828K Venture Round with funding from Hiker Ventures 🇧🇷 to simplify financial operations for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The company integrates payment processing, tax management, and accounting services into a unified platform, helping entrepreneurs focus on sustainable business growth.

MejorCDT 🇨🇴 raised a $1M Seed Round with funding from Y Combinator 🇺🇸, Harvard University Endowment 🇺🇸, Raisin 🇩🇪 and Yango Ventures 🇦‍🇪 to build a digital marketplace for fixed‑term bank deposits (CDTs) in Latin America, enabling individuals and businesses to compare, invest, and withdraw funds seamlessly through a transparent, user‑friendly platform that has processed over $30M in deposits since its 2021 launch.

Agonalea Games 🇦🇷 raised a $2M Seed Round with funding from Mika Games 🇨🇾 to develop hybrid-casual mobile games that blend sub-genres to deliver unique gaming experiences. The company aims to evoke childlike wonder, spark joy, and foster meaningful connections through innovative gameplay, with its flagship title Punko.io achieving above-market retention rates comparable to industry hits like Candy Crush Saga and Brawl Stars.

GOPASS 🇨🇴 raised an $8M Series A Round with funding from Qualcomm Ventures 🇺🇸 and K Fund 🇪🇸 to build a financial software application that powers contactless payments for parking and toll services. The platform secures digital transactions without requiring cash or physical cards, enabling drivers to pay seamlessly and safely on the go.

Merama Inc. 🇲🇽🇧🇷 raised a $215M funding Round (including $45M in equity and $170M in debt financing) with funding from Marcel Telles 🇧🇷, Advent International 🇺🇸, SoftBank Group Corp. 🇯🇵, Valor Capital Group 🇧🇷, Monashees Capital 🇧🇷, Balderton Capital 🇬🇧, BTG Pactual 🇧🇷, Citi 🇺🇸, and Itaú Unibanco 🇧🇷 to consolidate and expand leading direct-to-consumer e-commerce brands across Latin America and the U.S. The company empowers founders by allowing operational control while leveraging Merama's expertise in marketplace management, logistics, and technology to create category-leading brands focused on growth and efficiency.

Acquisition News

• Axeptio 🇫🇷 acquired AdOpt 🇧🇷, a Brazilian platform for LGPD compliance and consent management supporting over 50,000 websites—including Caixa Econômica Federal, Nike, Reebok, LEGO, Crocs, Ajinomoto, and Kipling—with intuitive self‑service and high‑touch solutions to accelerate its international expansion into Brazil’s key consent management market by leveraging AdOpt’s strong local brand recognition and expertise, and to integrate advanced Consent Mode v2 and TCF functionalities for global compliance.

• RBR Asset 🇧🇷 acquired Homelend 🇧🇷, a fintech specializing in real estate credit and industrialized housing construction, to expand its portfolio in structured financing for prefabricated homes and strengthen its presence in the Brazilian real estate market.

Startup & VC News

• Círculo de Crédito 🇲🇽 and Seedstars 🇨🇭 announced the launch of the Trust‑Tech Fund to boost digital trust startups in Latin America to strengthen the region’s digital credit ecosystem by accelerating solutions in identity verification, fraud prevention, and AI‑driven risk assessment. The fund will select five early‑stage startups, investing $50K in each and providing tailored acceleration, mentorship, and integration with Círculo de Crédito’s infrastructure to scale innovative Trust‑Tech ventures across the market. (LinkedIn – Círculo de Crédito)

• Yango Ventures 🇦🇪 announced the launch of a $20M corporate venture fund to empower early-stage tech startups across emerging markets, focusing on O2O, B2B SaaS, and FinTech ventures from Seed to Series B to drive digitalisation and inclusive economic growth. The fund will provide capital, hands‑on mentorship, and access to Yango Group’s global network—targeting 10–20× returns on Series A deals and backing 100–200 startups with investment tickets of $50K–$200K—and has already made its first local investment in Colombian fintech MejorCDT. (Arabian Business)(Forbes Colombia)

• Start Growth 🇧🇷 announced a $3M USD investment round to accelerate startups in five strategic sectors—HRtechs, Fintechs, Edtechs, Database, and Martechs, aiming to support companies that have validated their products but face scaling challenges. The initiative offers investments ranging from $100K to $200K per startup, potentially reaching $600K with co-investment partners. Selected startups will also receive mentorship and operational support through the Start Growth Method, a framework designed to enhance business models and operational efficiency. Applications are open until April 7, and the program emphasizes innovation, scalability, and market potential. (GazzConecta) (Baguete)

• Artu 🇲🇽 announced an AI‑driven platform automating 100% of compliance for vulnerable activities and fintechs to curb corporate corruption and unlock innovation, reducing manual compliance burdens—often consuming 25% of revenues—at 15× lower cost in a region where corruption costs over 5% of GDP. (LinkedIn)

• Payana 🇨🇴 announced its expansion in Mexico after rebranding from Higo to strengthen its position as a leading AI-driven financial automation platform in LatAm. With over 1.5K companies using its services, Payana aims to reach 4K businesses in Mexico, offering tools that cut accounting update times by 90% and treasury errors by 95%. Backed by regional and U.S. investors, this move highlights growing demand for intelligent financial solutions in the region. (La República) (Pulzo)

Sociopolitical News

🇦🇷 Argentina

• Argentina secures $42B in international financing to stabilize its economy and back austerity reforms. The IMF’s 48‑month, $20B bailout includes an immediate $12B disbursement, while the World Bank and IDB pledged $22B—with $1.5B released upfront for social protections and growth. Lifting strict currency controls helped achieve the first budget surplus in a decade and cut inflation to 55.9%, though critics warn of persistent inequality and trade‑shock risks. (IMF) (World Bank) (Reuters) (DW)

• Milei’s regulatory shift to align with Trump’s tariffs could pave the way for a free‑trade agreement and secure a $20B IMF bailout. By reframing the 10% duty on Argentine imports as preferential treatment, his government has met nine of 16 prerequisites for a pact, even as austerity curbs hyperinflation but fuels unemployment and poverty amid backlash over a failed Mar‑a‑Lago meeting with Trump. (CBS News) (Intellinews) (BATimes) (Ara)

🇧🇷 Brazil

• Brazilian health regulator Anvisa's consultation on RDC 327/2019 could expand cannabis prescriptions and increase patient access. The draft allows dentists to prescribe, adds buccal, sublingual, and dermatological routes, and lets compounding pharmacies make CBD medicines, aiming to fill regulatory gaps and streamline processes for 430K patients until June 6, 2025. (Mattos Filho) (Demarest) (Souto Correa)

• Brazil's robust $355.6B reserves and economic policies enable it to withstand U.S. tariffs imposed by Trump. President Lula highlighted financial stability through credit access and wage growth, while criticizing Trump's trade policies as destabilizing and reaffirming Brazil's commitment to self-reliant growth. (Mercopress) (Agência Brasil) (Brasil247)

• Mercado Libre plans a record $5.8B investment in Brazil to expand logistics and technology infrastructure in 2025. This 48% increase from the previous year aims to strengthen its e-commerce and fintech operations, create 14,000 jobs, and solidify its position in Brazil, which represents over half of its revenue. (Investment Monitor)

🇨🇱 Chile

• BHP's $13B copper mining expansion in Chile depends on faster permitting reforms to meet surging global demand and stay competitive. Investments include a $2.3B Laguna Seca upgrade and a potential 2028 Cerro Colorado restart, but slow approvals threaten Chile’s position as demand rises 70% by 2050. President Boric’s reforms aim to cut permitting timelines by one-third by 2026, though environmental groups worry about weakened protections. (Panorama Minero) (Mining.com) (Discovery Alert) (The Bull)

🇨🇴 Colombia

• The MSCI Colcap index, Colombia's stock market benchmark, rose 3.15% to 1,601.60 points after President Trump paused certain tariffs, boosting investor optimism. Year-to-date gains stand at 16.09%, with support at 1,540 points, resistance at 1,630 points, and trading volume reaching COP 250.992B (≈USD 162M at 1,546.98 COP/USD). (Valora Analitik) (Reuters)

• Colombia’s energy regulator approved CREG Resolution 101 072, creating “energy communities” to collectively generate, consume, and sell renewables, aiming to add at least 1 GW of capacity and reduce bills for underserved households. The framework lets geographically dispersed users pool solar generation across both the National Interconnected System and non‑interconnected zones, pairs subsidies for panels with low‑interest, no‑collateral loans, and opens new income streams from surplus sales. (PV Magazine) (América Economía)

• Colombia’s pension reform introduces a four-pillar system to expand coverage and address inequities but faces challenges ahead of its July 2025 implementation. The new system restructures contributions between public and private administrators, with employers facing increased obligations for contractor contributions. Concerns over regulatory readiness, technological upgrades, and constitutional challenges remain. (Cambio Colombia) (Lockton) (Finance Colombia)

🇨🇷 Costa Rica

• Costa Rica's Central Bank keeps its monetary policy rate at 4%, citing low inflation and strong domestic growth amid global uncertainty. February 2025 saw a 4.1% economic expansion, outpacing historical averages (3.8%) and trading partners' 2024 growth (2.6%), while inflation is expected to return to the 2-4% target by Q3 2025. (La República) (Banco Central de Costa Rica)

• Costa Rica is constructing a $35M, 5,000-inmate "megaprison" modeled after El Salvador’s CECOT to combat surging gang violence and overcrowding, sparking debates over human rights risks. The facility, set for completion by 2026, aims to address Costa Rica’s record homicide rates (880 in 2024) and prison occupancy at 118.75%, leveraging architectural plans from El Salvador’s government to cut costs. (Bloomberg Línea)

🇩🇴 Dominican Republic

• The Jet Set nightclub roof collapse in Santo Domingo on April 8, 2025, killed 226 people, marking the Dominican Republic’s deadliest structural failure. The tragedy occurred during a packed merengue concert by Rubby Pérez (among the fatalities), with victims including ex-MLB players Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco, a provincial governor, and 25 Venezuelans. Rescue efforts shifted to recovery within 24 hours, as President Abinader declared six days of mourning while forensic teams used biometrics to identify victims. The cause is under investigation. (Diario Libre) (AP News)

• The Dominican government has approved a $2.03M subsidy to maintain stable prices for four essential fuels during April 12–18, 2025. This weekly measure by President Luis Abinader’s administration seeks to shield households and productive sectors from international price volatility—following a $8.5M subsidy for five fuels in the prior week. (Presidencia de la República Dominicana) (Diario Libre)

🇪🇨 Ecuador

• Ecuador's country risk index surged to 1,840 points on April 8, 2025, reflecting heightened political and economic uncertainty ahead of the presidential runoff election. This marks an increase of over 800 points since February, driven by market concerns over the tight contest and falling oil prices, which are critical to Ecuador's economy. (El Comercio)

• Ecuador's presidential runoff on April 13 features incumbent Daniel Noboa against leftist Luisa González in a polarized race amid security and economic crises. Noboa advocates neoliberal reforms and anti-crime policies, while González supports state intervention and aligns with Rafael Correa’s legacy. Polls show a technical tie, with undecided voters as key. (AS/COA) (BBC) (AP News)

🇸🇻 El Salvador

• El Salvador will inject $1B into its economy to boost growth and support MSMEs under an IMF agreement. Equivalent to 2.8% of GDP, the funds will come from foreign currency markets to avoid inflation, focusing on advance payments, debt repayment, and economic stability, though critics note only $700M in confirmed financing. (El Salvador) (Newsweek Español)

🇬🇹 Guatemala

• Guatemala's government and private sector united to negotiate with the U.S. over new 10% tariffs on exports, aiming to avoid economic harm and a tariff war. The tariffs, invoking U.S. emergency powers, threaten $4.6B in 2024 exports and may violate the DR-CAFTA agreement. (República) (Latam FDI)

🇭🇳 Honduras

• The IX Summit of CELAC in Honduras highlighted regional integration and cooperation. Leaders from 33 countries addressed economic cooperation, climate change, food security, and migration, with Colombia assuming the presidency pro tempore to promote unity and global engagement. (Prensa Latina) (TeleSUR) (Swissinfo)

• The IMF has reached a staff-level agreement with Honduras for the third review of its ECF and EFF arrangements. If approved in June, this deal could unlock $155M to bolster Honduras' economic resilience and reforms, focusing on fiscal policies, social spending, energy sector improvements, and anti-corruption measures. (IMF) (Reuters)

🇲🇽 Mexico

• Mexico has agreed to accelerate water deliveries to Texas under a 1944 treaty after U.S. President Trump threatened tariffs and sanctions over noncompliance. Facing a historic drought, Mexico had delivered less than 30% of its required water quota, prompting diplomatic tensions as both nations grapple with climate-driven water shortages and rising agricultural demands. (UPI) (Axios) (Reuters)

• Mexico City’s legislature approved a 2025 Fiscal Code reform to enhance public finances, introduce environmental taxes, and strengthen transparency. The reform includes a MX$58/t CO₂ tax, updates cadastral registries, and mandates property declarations for homes valued over $221K, sparking privacy concerns among real estate groups and PAN legislators. (Congreso de la Ciudad de México) (El Economista) (Uno TV)

🇳🇮 Nicaragua

• Nicaragua is poised to deepen its economic and technological ties with China by expanding cooperation with Chinese companies. President Ortega announced that Nicaragua will broaden partnerships with Chinese firms across sectors such as technology, infrastructure, and energy to leverage Chinese investment and expertise for national development (DW).

• In a related move, during a meeting with Huawei executives on April 9, 2025, Ortega reaffirmed the country’s willingness to deepen collaboration with Chinese technology companies, highlighting Managua’s strategic pivot toward Beijing to boost infrastructure and digital connectivity growth (Reuters).

• Nicaragua’s Ortega regime is escalating its crackdown on Catholic Holy Week processions by deploying thousands of police to enforce an unofficial ban on public religious celebrations. Clergy report threats of arrests for outdoor processions, forcing events indoors under surveillance, amid years of repression with 3000 processions blocked in 2022 and nearly 1000 attacks on Catholics since 2018. (Infobae)

🇵🇦 Panama

• Panama risks losing its investment-grade credit rating due to a 2024 deficit of 7.4% of GDP and delayed Social Security Fund reforms. Finance Minister Felipe Chapman plans to cut the deficit to 4% in 2025 and 1.5% by 2030, aiming to boost investor confidence, but analysts warn failure could lead to downgrades, higher borrowing costs, and reduced foreign investment. (La Estrella de Panamá) (Bloomberg) (Latam FDI)

🇵🇾 Paraguay

• Paraguay's stock market remained stable despite global turmoil from new U.S. tariffs, offering opportunities for local industries. Limited trade exposure and favorable tariff rates shielded Paraguay's economy, potentially attracting foreign investments and boosting exports to the U.S. (La Nación) (Asunción Times)

• Moody’s rates Paraguay’s banking system as stable, highlighting sustained economic growth and regulatory measures to mitigate risks. While agricultural loan exposure remains a vulnerability, regulatory relief introduced in January 2025 is expected to stabilize portfolio quality and bank profitability. Local banking consolidations are seen as efficiency-driven rather than risk-inducing. (InfoNegocios)

• The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has launched the 2025-2029 Country Strategy to support Paraguay's transition to sustainable, private sector-driven economic growth. This strategy focuses on three pillars: improving water and energy efficiency under "Paraguay Verde," fostering private investment and regional integration under "Paraguay Productivo," and expanding healthcare access and housing under "Paraguay Humano." Additionally, it emphasizes institutional strengthening and inclusion for vulnerable populations. (IDB)

🇵🇪 Peru

• Peru must leverage the 90-day tariff suspension during the US-China trade war with structural reforms to boost competitiveness. Ex-Minister David Tuesta urged reducing labor costs, improving logistics, cutting bureaucracy, and diversifying markets with new trade deals like one with India, while monitoring exchange rate and interest rate risks. (Radio Nacional del Perú)

• Peru plans to promote $70B in public-private partnership (PPP) projects between 2025 and 2026 to address infrastructure gaps and improve public services. Managed by ProInversión, these initiatives focus on transportation, energy, health, and education, including major projects like highways and industrial parks. Peru will also host PPP Américas 2025 to foster regional collaboration on sustainable development. (Rumbo Minero) (SwissInfo) (Caribbean News Global)

• Peru's central bank maintained its benchmark interest rate at 4.75% in April 2025, citing stable inflation and global economic uncertainty. This marks the third consecutive month without changes, as policymakers monitor inflation, which is currently within the target range (1.3% headline inflation in March), and assess external risks stemming from heightened trade tensions, particularly U.S. tariffs. Economists predict potential rate cuts later this year if global conditions deteriorate further. (Bloomberg Línea) (FocusEconomics) (TradingView News)

🇻🇪 Venezuela

• Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro signed an economic emergency decree to counter U.S. sanctions and tariffs, aiming to stabilize the economy and promote domestic production. The decree grants Maduro special powers for 60 days, allowing measures such as suspending tax collection, implementing import-substitution policies, and attracting foreign investment to mitigate the impact of reduced oil revenues and global trade disruptions. (Misión Verdad) (Reuters) (Venezuelanalysis)

🇺🇸 Miami

• Unicoin CEO Alex Konanykhin urges the SEC to drop its lawsuit, citing political motives and emphasizing transparency in Unicoin's operations. He highlights Unicoin's acknowledgment of its token as a security and its $3.5B sales history, claiming unfair targeting despite providing extensive financial records. The case outcome could influence regulatory trends in the crypto sector. (Coinfomania) (AInvest)

• The "Hands Off!" protests are the largest nationwide demonstrations against President Trump and advisor Elon Musk, with 1.4K events across all 50 states and globally. Protesters opposed $2T federal cuts, including Social Security and Medicaid, criticized marginalized community attacks, immigration policies, and emphasized protecting democracy and essential services. (AP News) (CNN) (Al Jazeera)

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Funding

Antal Capital 🇲🇽 raised a $500 K Pre-Seed Round with undisclosed investors to build a smart real estate marketplace that makes investing in Mexico seamless and secure. Powered by AI and data‑driven insights, the platform connects investors with vetted residential, commercial, and hospitality property opportunities, and its integrated escrow service streamlines every step—from discovery to closing—offering transparency, security, and efficiency for buyers, sellers, and investors alike.

KredFeed 🇲🇽 raised a $1.5 M Seed Round with funding from Carabela 🇲🇽, Techstars 🇺🇸, and Cacao Capital 🇬🇹 to build a financial platform that liquidates accounts receivable for SMEs by allowing them to sell invoices and advance supplier payments. The solution empowers entrepreneurs to solve working capital needs and boost liquidity by providing immediate cash flow and up to 95% of invoice value up front.

Uncover 🇧🇷 raised a $2.2 M Seed Round extension with funding from ABSeed 🇧🇷 and other strategic investors 🇧🇷 to develop a marketing data platform that integrates multiple data sources and leverages AI models for ROI analysis, media optimization, and forecasting. The platform empowers businesses to understand the reach and impact of their marketing strategies and maximize their return on investment.

Félix 🇺🇸 raised a $75 M Series B round with funding from QED Investors 🇺🇸, Switch Ventures 🇺🇸, monashees 🇧🇷, H2O Capital 🇺🇸, and Castle Island Ventures 🇺🇸 to build a chat‑based money‑transfer platform designed to facilitate cross‑border payments in Latin America. The platform leverages blockchain, natural language processing, and AI to simplify and automate transactions, build credit history, and enable customers to transfer money hassle‑free for better financial health.

Acquisition News

• Cencosud 🇨🇱 acquired Vopero 🇲🇽, an operator of a fashion resale marketplace that enables convenient selling and sustainable, affordable buying through a circular garment rotation system, to strengthen its leadership in sustainable fashion under its Paris brand and expand its circular fashion offerings in Latin America

• Tether Investments 🇻🇬 acquired a 51% stake of Adecoagro 🇦🇷, a leading agro‑industrial company in South America operating in Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay to diversify its asset base beyond digital currencies and secure a majority stake in large‑scale agricultural production and renewable energy assets in South America.

Startup & VC News

• Nazca and Bridge 🇲🇽 announced the merger of their venture capital operations to form a combined fund with over $300 million in assets under management and a track record of IRR above 30%, marking the first consolidation of its kind in the Spanish‑speaking Latin American VC ecosystem and positioning the new firm to become one of the region’s largest investors. Both early‑stage investors — whose portfolios include Justo, Kavak, Minu, Aplazo, Cubo and Mendel — will launch Nazca Fund IV in 2025 to continue backing high‑growth startups, leveraging Bridge’s proprietary predictive algorithms alongside Nazca’s AI unit for enhanced data‑driven decision‑making. “This fusion is more than an alliance, it is the natural evolution of venture capital in Latin America,” said Héctor Sepúlveda, cofounder and managing partner of Nazca. (Bloomberg)

Sociopolitical News

🇦🇷 Argentina

• Argentina's poverty rate significantly decreased to 38.1% in the second half of 2024, marking a substantial drop from 52.9% in the first half of the year. This reduction is attributed to efforts against inflation and economic reforms implemented by President Javier Milei. (BBC News Mundo) (DW)

• Argentina's President Milei plans to modify legislation to comply with Trump's tariff requirements. This move aligns Argentina with U.S. trade policies amid global trade tensions and aims to strengthen the relationship between the two countries. (La Jornada)

🇧🇷 Brazil

• Pro-Bolsonaro demonstrators in Paulista Avenue criticize the Supreme Federal Court (STF). The demonstrations, which follow a similar event in Rio de Janeiro, aim to garner popular support for a bill that would grant amnesty to those convicted and investigated for attacks on the Three Powers headquarters in Brasília on January 8, 2023. (CNN Brasil)

• Brazilian companies face a debt crisis as rising interest rates strain financial stability. With the Selic rate projected to reach 15% in 2025, borrowing costs are unsustainable, leading to increased bankruptcy filings and cautious investment strategies across key sectors. (The Rio Times) (Valor International)

🇨🇱 Chile

• The European Investment Bank (EIB) will provide $110 million to Chile's BancoEstado to boost renewable energy and energy efficiency projects. This initiative targets small and medium businesses, supports Chile's decarbonization efforts, and aligns with the EU's Global Gateway Investment Agenda to foster sustainable development. (EIB) (EEAS)

🇨🇴 Colombia

• A Colombian court has ordered the release of Medellín Cartel co-founder Carlos Lehder, citing the expiration of his 1996 arms trafficking sentence. Lehder, who returned to Colombia after decades abroad, is now free to travel without legal impediments, sparking debates about justice for his past crimes. (Colombia Reports) (El País)

🇨🇷 Costa Rica

• Costa Rica faces trade uncertainty as the U.S. imposes a 10% tariff on all imports. Economists and trade leaders are divided on the severity of the economic impact, with concerns about potential effects on prices, exchange rates, and overall growth for Costa Rica, which relies on the U.S. for 47% of its exports. (Tico Times)

🇩🇴 Dominican Republic

• Trump’s proposed tariffs could slow the Dominican Republic’s economic growth due to reduced exports and trade uncertainty. Economists warn that the tariffs may strain U.S.-DR trade relations and dampen investment prospects in key sectors. (Diario Libre) (El Caribe)

• The Dominican Republic's public sector's growth significantly outpaces the overall economy, raising concerns about fiscal sustainability. This disparity sparks debate over government spending and its impact on the nation's financial future. (Diario Libre) (Listín Diario).

🇪🇨 Ecuador

• Ecuador heads to a runoff presidential election on April 13th amidst political divisions and rising gang violence. The tight race between incumbent Daniel Noboa and challenger Luisa González will determine whether Ecuador moves towards a more cohesive governance model or continues to be plagued by internal divisions.(Latinoamerica21)

• Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa replaced Vice President Verónica Abad amid a prolonged feud over campaign authority. The move ensures interim leadership by ally Cynthia Gellibert during Noboa’s re-election bid, which faces a tight runoff against leftist Luisa González. (Reuters)

🇸🇻 El Salvador

• A DOJ attorney was sidelined after a judge ordered the return of a man unlawfully deported to El Salvador. The Trump administration faces scrutiny for deporting Kilmar Abrego Garcia despite a court order protecting him, with the DOJ appealing the ruling and placing the lawyer on leave for inadequate defense of the government's position. (Reuters) (The New York Times)

🇬🇹 Guatemala

• Guatemalan conglomerate Castillo Hermanos acquires SunnyD maker Harvest Hill in a $1.5 billion deal to expand U.S. market presence. The acquisition includes brands like Juicy Juice and Little HUG, aiming to scale operations and leverage Harvest Hill’s production facilities for broader consumer reach. (Reuters) (Prensa Libre)

• Guatemala's Vice Minister of Economy, Antonio Romero, who promoted the Competition Law, has resigned. Romero cited personal and family reasons for his departure, which comes amid the implementation process of the Competition Law and the selection of directors for the Superintendency of Competition. (Prensa Libre)

🇭🇳 Honduras

• An IMF mission has arrived in Honduras to conduct the third review of its economic reform program, a critical step that could unlock an additional $125 million to support fiscal stability. The team will assess fiscal, monetary, public investment, and reform measures through end‑2024, following earlier reviews that released $315 million under the 2023–2026 agreement. (Proceso Digital) (La Prensa)

• Honduras is set to face economic challenges due to potential new tariffs from the U.S. and is considering re-negotiating CAFTA. The Honduran government views the tariff increase as a breach of international agreements, potentially affecting trade relations with the U.S., the EU, and other nations. (Proceso.hn)

🇲🇽 Mexico

• Trump’s promotion of Mexico’s anti‑fentanyl “Aléjate de las drogas” campaign on Truth Social underscores the urgency of the fentanyl crisis in the US and highlights rare cross‑border public health collaboration. He shared two English‑dubbed videos from the Mexican government’s “El fentanilo te mata” initiative, detailing the drug’s deadly health effects and providing a helpline number. (El Universal) (Excélsior)

• Mexico unveiled an 18-point Plan México to strengthen its economy and shield it from new US reciprocal tariffs. The strategy accelerates key infrastructure and housing projects, expands food and energy self‑sufficiency, and bolsters domestic manufacturing through targeted decrees, investment portfolios, and financial support programs with clear implementation timelines. (El País) (El Financiero)

🇳🇮 Nicaragua

• The UN’s Group of Experts on Human Rights in Nicaragua has, for the first time, publicly named 54 senior government, military and ruling‑party figures as responsible for systemic repression and grave human rights violations. The detailed 234‑page report exposes the chains of command behind arbitrary detentions, torture, extrajudicial killings and property confiscations, and urges international sanctions, legal action and support for victims. (UN News Español) (Reuters)

🇵🇦 Panama

• The Panama Canal has initiated a bidding process for a new pipeline to transport liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) across the canal, aiming to enhance operational efficiency and adapt to changing global shipping trends. This project is part of the canal's strategy to increase capacity and remain competitive in international maritime trade. (Reuters) (Energy Now)

• Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is visiting Panama amid President Trump's claims of Chinese influence over the Panama Canal and his desire to reclaim it. The visit aims to strengthen U.S. partnerships with Panama and other Central American nations, despite Panama's denial of Chinese interference. (AP News) (ABC News)

🇵🇾 Paraguay

• Paraguay summoned Brazil's ambassador over alleged espionage by the Brazilian Intelligence Agency (ABIN) related to Itaipu dam negotiations. The diplomatic protest has led to the suspension of negotiations regarding Itaipu hydroelectric plant tariffs until Brazil provides satisfactory clarifications. (El País)

🇵🇪 Peru

• Peru is taking steps to protect its exports in response to the U.S. government's announcement of tariffs. The Peruvian government is coordinating with trade authorities in the United States to safeguard Peruvian businesses and mitigate the potential impact of these tariffs. (El Economista)

🇻🇪 Venezuela

• Economists predict Venezuela's exchange rate gap could lead to inflation exceeding 200% in 2025. This is due to bolivar depreciation, limited central bank reserves, and an overvalued exchange rate. (Banca y Negocios)

• US sanctions on Venezuela could cost Repsol $550 million, impacting its operations and Ibex 35 shares. The Trump-era policies, reinstated, revoke permissions for oil firms to export Venezuelan oil, affecting companies like Repsol, Eni, and Maurel & Prom. (Banca y Negocios)

🇺🇸 Miami

• Miami-Dade commissioners are facing scrutiny for approving no-bid land deals that favor certain developers without a competitive bidding process. These deals involve the transfer of county-owned land to developers in exchange for promises of affordable housing or job creation, raising concerns about transparency and whether the county is getting the best possible value. (The Real Deal)

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Funding

BiiU 🇲🇽 raised a $2.1M Pre Seed round with funding from a strategic investor 🇲🇽 to create a dynamic learning professional network that centralizes work and educational experiences for everyone. The platform streamlines access to professional development resources, connects talent with career opportunities, and fosters a collaborative community where continuous learning meets real-world application.

Voa Health 🇧🇷 raised a $14.4M Seed round with funding from Prosus Ventures 🇳🇱 to develop an AI-driven platform that optimizes medical documentation. The startup's technology processes unstructured data from exams and patient-professional interactions, streamlining medical records and automating administrative tasks, which helps the healthcare industry boost operational efficiency and elevate the quality of care.

Mendel 🇲🇽 raised a $35M Series B round with funding from Base10 Partners 🇺🇸, PayPal Ventures 🇺🇸, and Infinity Ventures 🇺🇸 to build an expense management software that optimizes corporate spending oversight. The platform offers decentralized reporting, automated classification, real-time transaction tracking, and policy-based controls, simplifying workflows, reducing fraud, and ensuring compliance while delivering greater financial transparency for organizations.

Acquisition News

• Saudi Aramco 🇸🇦 acquired Primax 🇵🇪, a fuel distributor operating across Peru, Colombia, and Ecuador with a network of 2,185 gas stations, to expand its presence in Latin America’s downstream fuel distribution market and leverage Primax’s extensive retail network for further regional growth.

Startup & VC News

• Prometeo 🇺🇾 announced the launch of its Borderless Banking solution to accelerate B2B cross‑border payments between the U.S. and Latin America, aiming to simplify financial operations and enhance transparency in a region where only 30% of payments are digitized. The fully automated, API‑driven platform enables local account access, automates collections, and provides real‑time tracking of fund movements—addressing a critical gap as regional trade expands. (Business Wire)(PYMNTS)

Sociopolitical News

🇦🇷 Argentina

• Macron and Milei’s dialogue signals a potential economic pivot for Argentina, centering on the strategic exploitation of critical metals. The discussions hint at renewed international collaboration and a shift in policy priorities that could drive industrial modernization and resource-backed growth. (Ámbito Financiero)

• Mass protests against dictatorship denialism underscore deep societal divisions in Argentina. Tens of thousands rallied to reject revisionist narratives linked to Milei, reflecting widespread mobilization to preserve historical memory and confront political extremism. (EL PAÍS Argentina)

🇧🇷 Brazil

• The Brazilian Supreme Court's ruling on whether to try former President Jair Bolsonaro for his alleged coup plot is a pivotal moment for Brazil’s democracy. The decision, which could lead to a trial for Bolsonaro and seven allies on charges including coup attempt and other serious offenses, may reshape the country's political landscape and serve as a critical test of judicial independence. (LA NACION) (Clarín)

• Companies report a significant deterioration in Brazil’s economic outlook, signaling mounting uncertainty and increased business costs. Business sentiment has notably worsened compared to previous quarters, with many firms now forecasting higher input costs and tighter margins in the coming year. (Folha de S.Paulo) (Valor Econômico)

🇨🇱 Chile

• President Gabriel Boric champions long-term projects and institutional stability as essential to sustaining public policies amid Chile’s fast-paced political turnover. He cautioned against drastic “chainsaw” reforms that risk short-term gains over enduring development and stressed the need for international cooperation to counter global challenges. (BioBioChile) (MercoPress)

🇨🇴 Colombia

• Over half of Colombia’s financial experts expect a 25 basis point rate cut, a move that could ease borrowing costs and spur economic activity. This sentiment comes ahead of the March 31 meeting of the Banco de la República, as analysts point to the need for gradual monetary easing amid persistent inflation pressures. (La República) (Reuters)

• Persistent uncertainty continues to weigh on Colombian business performance, signaling an urgent need for strategic reforms to boost investor confidence. While current indicators show moderate growth and improvements in some sectors, business leaders remain cautious about short-term prospects due to ongoing challenges such as security issues, legislative reforms, and geopolitical tensions. (La República) (El Heraldo)

• Colombia’s rapid debt surge endangers its fiscal sustainability and long-term growth. The OCDE Global Debt Report 2025 shows that by December 2024, Colombia’s external debt reached USD201.764 billion—48.2% of GDP—primarily driven by extensive public subsidies, diesel support, and tax exemptions, while new dollar-denominated bonds yield around 8% amid rising fiscal pressures. (La FM) (El Heraldo)

🇨🇷 Costa Rica

• Costa Rica’s financial regulator is tackling a cultural “taboo” on cyberfraud to boost digital security. The initiative aims to enhance consumer protection and modernize regulatory practices amid rising cyberattacks targeting banks and digital transactions. (IUPANA) (El País CR).

• Fitch Ratings’ upgrade of Costa Rica’s outlook to positive and the maintenance of its 'BB' sovereign rating boost the nation’s credibility amid a strong economic performance. The move reflects robust growth, improved fiscal discipline, and confidence in the country’s resilience despite ongoing political challenges ahead of the next elections. (La República) (Reuters)

🇩🇴 Dominican Republic

• The Dominican Republic is emerging as a key investment hub due to its political stability, economic growth, and strategic location for nearshoring. President Luis Abinader highlighted the nation's favorable business environment and its role in strengthening global supply chains during the 2025 Latin American Cities Conferences. (Dominican Today)

🇪🇨 Ecuador

• Trump’s meeting with Ecuador’s President Noboa in Florida ahead of a pivotal runoff election signals a strategic realignment amid regional security challenges. Noboa, who has aggressively targeted gang violence and is courting U.S. military and trade support, faces a tough re-election while seeking to deepen bilateral ties that could reshape domestic and international policy. (Reuters) (Voice Asia News)

• Ecuador’s presidential candidate Daniel Noboa vows to convene a constituent assembly to drive deep reforms aimed at strengthening security and boosting economic stability. He stressed that the move isn’t for political show but is urgently needed to update laws—including mandatory pretrial detention for terrorism suspects and clearer definitions of maritime robbery—to restore citizen trust and order. The reform would follow the current constitutional process via a popular consultation. (El Universo) (El Comercio)

🇸🇻 El Salvador

• El Salvador's Supreme Court is petitioned to review the legality of detaining Venezuelan deportees. A group of Salvadoran lawyers representing the families of 30 Venezuelans is challenging the legality of their detention after they were deported from the U.S. to a prison in El Salvador. (CNN Español)

🇬🇹 Guatemala

• Guatemala scrapped a controversial compulsory car insurance plan after nationwide protests involving street blockades and clashes with police. The policy reversal highlights public resistance to perceived overreach in regulatory measures affecting daily life. (BBC)

🇭🇳 Honduras

• Hundreds of Hondurans rallied to defend democratic processes amid fears that President Xiomara Castro’s government is manipulating the political system to extend its hold on power. Protesters, dressed in white and waving national flags, decried alleged efforts by the ruling party to engineer electoral outcomes, drawing comparisons to authoritarian regimes. (Infobae) (Barron's)

🇲🇽 Mexico

• Fitch Ratings warns that Trump's tariffs will pressure Mexican banks' profits and increase credit costs. The agency anticipates instability, lower profit margins due to lower rates, and loan deterioration. (El País)

• Mexico's Central Bank (Banxico) cut the interest rate by 50 basis points to 9%. This decision acknowledges both the deceleration of inflation and the weakness of the Mexican economy, further threatened by potential US tariffs. (El Norte)

🇳🇮 Nicaragua

• Nicaragua’s government under Ortega dissolves 10 non-governmental organizations, including the Swiss Foundation, further tightening its control over civil society. The state justified the closures citing administrative non-compliance—such as failure to submit financial reports—and added these dissolutions to over 5,600 NGO shutdowns since the 2018 protests, highlighting a sustained crackdown on independent institutions. (DW Español) (Infobae América)

• Former Panamanian President Ricardo Martinelli is set to leave the Nicaraguan embassy in Panama and be transferred to Managua before March 31. The Panamanian government granted Martinelli safe passage for humanitarian reasons, and he will be accompanied by Nicaraguan diplomats and Panamanian police for security. (El Universal)

🇵🇦 Panama

• Panama reaffirms its sovereignty by declaring it will never host U.S. military bases again, underscoring its commitment to national independence and neutrality. The Panamanian president dismissed U.S. threats concerning the interoceanic canal, emphasizing that all security and military presence will remain exclusively under Panama’s control. (El Economista) (EFE Latam)

• Chinese pressure forces Li Ka-shing to delay a major sale of Panama Canal ports, spotlighting a geopolitical tug-of-war that could reshape global trade routes. The postponement underscores Beijing’s drive to safeguard national interests amid U.S. security concerns, potentially affecting the management of strategic port assets worldwide. (El Financiero)

🇵🇾 Paraguay

• Paraguayan farmers and indigenous communities marched to demand the promotion of an Agrarian Reform Law. The march, the 31st of its kind, seeks to address the lack of government policies supporting food production, amidst concerns that a small percentage of families control most of the cultivable land. (teleSURtv)

🇵🇪 Peru

• Peru is set to transform its agricultural sector with a $24 billion irrigation initiative, positioning its farming future for sustainable growth. The government’s ambitious program, comprising 22 projects that will expand farmland by nearly one million hectares, aims to boost agro-exports and eventually shift economic dominance from mining to agriculture by 2050. (Reuters)

🇻🇪 Venezuela

• The Venezuelan Bolivar plummets to historic lows amid concerns over new US tariffs on Venezuelan oil. The tariffs, enacted by the Trump administration, are aimed at pressuring the Maduro regime but are causing economic instability as major oil buyers reduce shipments. (Infobae)

• 178 Venezuelan migrants deported from the U.S. arrived in Caracas. This is the second group of repatriates after the resumption of transfers announced last week. (Milenio)

• The U.S. deployment of a destroyer in the Esequibo underscores a dramatic intensification in regional security tensions with Venezuela. The maneuver accompanies stern warnings of repercussions if Venezuelan forces engage aggressively, further heightening geopolitical uncertainties. (El Mundo) (Radio Arandú)

🇺🇸 Miami

• Florida's Speaker of the House proposes cutting the state sales tax from 6% to 5.25% to increase affordability for residents. The proposed cut aims to save Floridians nearly $5 billion annually but would necessitate finding ways to offset the state revenue loss. (Axios Miami)

• Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava met with recently released Nicaraguan political prisoners to offer support. The mayor pledged to expedite their political asylum process and urged the community to provide assistance, particularly with housing, as many lack family in the U.S. (CBS News Miami)

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Funding

3VO 🇵🇦 raised a $200K venture round with funding from a strategic investor 🇺🇸 to develop a Web3-powered digital community ecosystem designed to enhance user engagement and scalability. The company's platform integrates AI-driven automation with token creation, content monetization, marketplaces, and multi-chain wallets, enabling businesses and organizations to build decentralized online communities while promoting privacy, collaboration, and global impact.

Ualá 🇦🇷 increased its Series E round by $66 million with funding from 🇺🇸🇲🇽 to expand its digital banking application designed to improve financial accessibility. The company's platform integrates with traditional payment networks, allowing users to transfer money on demand and make purchases safely without cash.

Acquisition News

• Volaris Group 🇨🇦 acquired Nydus Systems 🇧🇷, a developer of a payroll and human resources management platform for small-to-medium-sized businesses in Brazil, to expand its portfolio in the HR and payroll software sector while ensuring compliance with Brazil’s LGPD regulations and union standards.

• Fretefy 🇧🇷 acquired Pathfind 🇧🇷, a developer of route optimization technology for logistics operations, to enhance its logistics platform with data-driven route optimization, improving efficiency, reducing costs, and increasing productivity for shippers, carriers, and drivers.

Startup & VC News

• Prefeitura de São Caetano do Sul 🇧🇷 announced the launch of a new Startup Acceleration Program to boost local innovation and support emerging companies at all development stages to strengthen its innovation ecosystem. The six‐month program—set to kick off with an event at the Municipal Technological Park on March 25, 2025—will offer free training, specialized mentorship, strategic connections, and increased visibility for startups. The initiative is carried out via the Sedeti (Secretaria de Desenvolvimento Econômico, Trabalho, Turismo, Tecnologia e Inovação) and features strategic partnerships with Bossa Invest, Sebrae, Nvidia, Instituto Mauá, and USCS. This program is expected to accelerate entrepreneurial growth and reinforce São Caetano’s role as a regional innovation hub. (São Caetano Digital)

Sociopolitical News

🇦🇷 Argentina

• IMF set to evaluate a nearly $20 billion loan to support Argentina's economic stabilization. The proposed four-year extended fund facility is pivotal for replenishing Argentina’s central bank reserves and easing capital controls, marking a crucial step in the nation’s broader reform efforts. (Cenital) (Bloomberg)

• The Argentine government has suspended Telecom’s planned acquisition of Telefónica to prevent excessive market concentration. This preventive action, prompted by the Competition Defense Commission's recommendation and communicated by the presidential office, underscores the state's commitment to maintaining competitive balance in the telecommunications sector. (Página12)

🇧🇷 Brazil

• Brazil’s government is overhauling its income tax system to boost fiscal fairness and spur economic growth. The reform will raise the tax exemption threshold from 2,824 to 5,000 reais per month—freeing up an estimated 10 million additional taxpayers—and target dividend payouts from firms taxed well below average by imposing a minimum 10% tax on high-income earners. This balanced approach aims to offset revenue losses while reducing inequality and broadening the taxpayer base. (Mattos Filho)(Reuters)(Demarest)

• Brazil’s National Congress approves a R$343 billion budget for agriculture, underscoring a major governmental commitment to boosting the sector. The sizable allocation is aimed at driving investments, enhancing rural development, and strengthening both food security and export competitiveness. (Canal Rural)

🇨🇱 Chile

• Chilean prosecutors have opened an investigation into the leaking of Princess Leonor of Spain's private photos taken inside a Punta Arenas mall. The probe was launched after the Spanish Royal House filed a complaint alleging violation of data protection laws. (Huffington Post)

• Valparaíso’s export surge of 23.9% underscores its growing economic dynamism and the critical impact of sectoral shifts on regional prosperity. This increase was driven by a standout 172.8% jump in the silvoagropecuario sector and strong fruit export gains, while mining—dominated by copper and iron—remained robust, reinforcing key trade links with China and Brazil. (En Cancha)

🇨🇴 Colombia

• Bank of America warns that Colombia's escalating fiscal deficit and revenue shortfalls could undermine economic stability. The analysis, based on discussions with local experts and policymakers, reveals that fiscal mismanagement—highlighted by a significant increase in the deficit relative to GDP and a notable drop in tax revenue—poses serious risks to exchange rates, inflation, and overall growth. (Valora Analitik)

🇨🇷 Costa Rica

• Costa Rica’s president leads a protest demanding the resignation of the Attorney General amid escalating concerns over alleged corruption and judicial interference. The demonstration in San José, attended by hundreds, highlights deepening political polarization and public discontent with government actions. (El País) (Columbia)

• Global governance for artificial intelligence takes a historic step as the UN launches a process to create a worldwide regulatory framework. The initiative, with Costa Rica and Spain as key co-facilitators, aims to harmonize global efforts to harness AI’s benefits while mitigating its risks. (El País)

🇩🇴 Dominican Republic

• The Dominican Government has allocated a $5.1 million subsidy to stabilize prices of five essential fuels, protecting consumers from international market volatility. The initiative will maintain fuel prices unchanged for the week of March 22–28, 2025, thereby ensuring economic predictability and easing household financial pressures. (Presidencia de la República Dominicana) (Diario Libre)

🇪🇨 Ecuador

• Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa forges a controversial alliance with Blackwater mercenaries to reinforce national security amid surging violence. The move is intended to enhance the capabilities of military and police forces against narcoterrorism and illegal fishing, while critics warn it could set a dangerous precedent regarding the use of private military actors in domestic affairs. (El País)

🇸🇻 El Salvador

• El Salvador secures a $500 million loan from the IDB to strengthen its fiscal position and implement structural reforms mandated by its IMF deal. The funding is intended to boost tax revenue, reduce public debt, rebuild international reserves, and enhance financial governance, supporting the government's broader economic stabilization efforts. (Reuters)

🇬🇹 Guatemala

• Guatemalan indigenous leaders are demanding the full repeal of the mandatory insurance policy, arguing that it harms their communities and undermines traditional practices. Local indigenous authorities contend that the policy places an undue economic burden on their people while eroding cultural autonomy, sparking protests and calls for urgent reform. (Prensa Libre)

🇭🇳 Honduras

• Honduras’ government is increasingly relying on external debt to finance its public spending. The government secured $4,538 million in external borrowing during 2022–2024—nearly double the amount from the previous triennium—while internal debt fell significantly, raising concerns about long-term fiscal sustainability. (El Heraldo)

🇲🇽 Mexico

• Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum rejects recession forecasts, asserting that her government’s robust plan will neutralize the impact of U.S. tariff threats. She emphasized that measures under “Plan México” and proactive negotiations with U.S. officials will safeguard economic growth, despite Fitch and other international agencies warning of a downturn. (Forbes México) (El Universal)

• The OECD projects that rising U.S. tariffs on Mexican products will trigger an economic contraction in Mexico through 2025 and 2026. The organization warns that if these tariffs and retaliatory measures fully take effect, Mexico’s GDP could shrink by 1.3% in 2025 and contract further by 0.6% in 2026, as uncertainty dampens investment and consumer spending. (El Economista)

🇳🇮 Nicaragua

• Nicaragua’s exit from the Central American Court of Justice signals a major shift in regional judicial cooperation. The move could weaken collective efforts to uphold human rights and the rule of law in Central America, potentially altering regional balances and diminishing legal accountability. (DW)

🇵🇦 Panama

• Trump’s memorandum on the Panama Canal raises concerns about U.S. military intervention and regional stability. The directive calls for the Pentagon to explore military measures to secure the canal amid growing geopolitical competition, particularly with China, sparking debates about Panamanian sovereignty and its strategic future. (El País)

• Panama is reinforcing its fiscal stability and investment appeal by discussing key public finance reforms with the IMF. The meeting focused on streamlining regulatory processes and enhancing governance to boost economic growth and investor confidence in a competitive global environment. (Panamá América)

🇵🇾 Paraguay

• Paraguay’s Central Bank maintained its policy rate at 6% amid stable price conditions and solid economic growth. The unanimous decision by the Monetary Policy Committee reflects confidence in the current economic outlook, supported by favorable international factors such as subdued US inflation and lower commodity prices, while the next review is set for April 23. (Última Hora)

🇵🇪 Peru

• Peru’s Congress has ousted its Interior Minister amid widespread public protests over record-high crime rates and the recent killing of a popular cumbia singer. The dismissal reflects growing frustration with the government’s inability to curb escalating violence and demands for stronger action to protect citizens. (El Economista) (La República)

🇻🇪 Venezuela

• U.S. President Donald Trump will revoke legal status for about half a million immigrants from Cuba, Haiti, Venezuela, and Nicaragua, a decision that could drastically reshape migration policies. The move is expected to trigger significant political and social debates in the United States as well as among affected communities, with potential repercussions on bilateral relations and domestic politics. (El País)

• Venezuela is cutting work hours in response to a climate emergency to help reduce energy consumption and lower emissions. The new policy aims to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change and could set a precedent for labor reforms in the region. (Excélsior)

🇺🇸 Miami

• Latino-owned businesses are facing unprecedented economic pressure as widespread fear of ICE raids and mass deportations disrupts both customer flow and staffing. This growing anxiety is causing a domino effect that sharply reduces daily patronage and employee attendance, jeopardizing the sustainability of small, community-centered enterprises. (El País) (CiberCuba)

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Funding

Enter 🇧🇷 raised a $5.5M Seed round with funding from Sequoia Capital 🇺🇸 to build an AI-driven platform for automating claims processing. Their solution leverages advanced AI and machine learning to extract and analyze data from unstructured documents, categorize claims, and predict outcomes—helping insurance companies and financial institutions accelerate claim cycles, reduce operational costs, and improve accuracy and customer satisfaction.

Grão Direto 🇧🇷 raised a $15.66M Series B round with funding from Kaszek 🇧‍🇷, SLC Ventures 🇧🇷, Scale-Up Ventures 🇧🇷, and CME Ventures 🇺🇸 to power a digital marketplace that connects grain buyers and sellers for agricultural commodity trading. The platform streamlines spot, future, and barter transactions by offering real-time price intelligence, contract automation, and document processing, empowering farmers and traders to optimize deals and enhance logistics in the agricultural sector.

Plata 🇲🇽 raised a $160M Series A round with funding from Kora 🇺🇸 and Moore Strategic Ventures 🇺🇸 to revolutionize personal finance management with a cashless payment platform that enables users to cover expenses and make purchases while enjoying perks like free insurance, restaurant discounts, and entertainment deals. The platform redefines how people interact with their finances by seamlessly integrating everyday payment processing with lifestyle benefits.

Acquisition News

• Bradesco 🇧🇷 acquired RCB Investimentos 🇧🇷, a Brazilian firm specializing in purchasing portfolios of defaulted credits for credit recovery, to complete its stake and consolidate its credit recovery operations.

• Strategic Investor 🇧🇷 acquired Provu 🇧🇷, a fintech specializing in personal credit and operating as a Sociedade de Crédito Direto since 2021, to take over its SCD unit amid a broader wind-down of operations and unlock restructuring opportunities.

Startup & VC News

• Geopagos 🇬🇹 announced the launch of Tienda Geo in Central America in collaboration with BAC Credomatic to accelerate digital commerce transformation to empower SMEs and independent professionals with a fully customizable, omnichannel eCommerce platform that integrates BAC’s payment system, centralized store management, and multi-channel sales—expanding market reach and streamlining operations in the region. (Geopagos)

Sociopolitical News

🇦🇷 Argentina

• Argentina's political unrest intensifies as allegations of excessive police repression during pensioners’ protests and a high-profile international trip cancellation by President Milei underscore the crisis. A former human rights official has formally denounced the security ministry for a violent crackdown that left dozens injured and over a hundred detained, while Milei postpones his award ceremony in Spain to focus on internal challenges amid claims of a coup attempt. (El Tiempo) (W Radio)

• Argentina's bleak employment outlook raises alarm as private survey shows zero net job growth expectations for the coming quarter. The report by ManpowerGroup highlights stagnant hiring intentions amid broader economic challenges and contrasts sharply with optimistic projections in the region, emphasizing significant sectoral and regional disparities. (Infobae)

🇧🇷 Brazil

• A flight carrying 135 Brazilians deported from the US landed in Fortaleza, underscoring the real-world impact of stringent immigration policies. The coordinated operation, involving multiple government agencies, is set to provide comprehensive support to the deportees as they are transported to their final destinations, following a US law that allows detention and deportation without formal trial. (Revista Oeste)

• Brazil considers a WTO appeal against US tariffs on steel and aluminum, a move that could redefine trade relations and protect its export sectors. The government is evaluating legal recourse to challenge measures that may disrupt bilateral commerce and impact domestic industries. (Agência Brasil)

• Brazil’s public accounts recorded a R$104 billion surplus in January, underscoring robust fiscal management amid economic challenges. The unexpected surplus, driven by higher revenues and disciplined spending, reinforces confidence in the government's financial strategies. (Carta Capital)

🇨🇱 Chile

• Chile’s political landscape is rapidly shifting as key cabinet changes and strategic maneuvers set the stage for a high-stakes electoral year. The reshuffle in President Boric’s administration, occurring during his final year in office, signals an effort to consolidate a progressive coalition amid mounting economic and security challenges, potentially altering the regulatory framework and investor sentiment. (El País)

🇨🇴 Colombia

• Colombia’s upcoming civic day and planned popular consultation are pivotal steps in advancing President Petro’s social reform agenda. The announcement of a civic day on March 18 underscores the government’s effort to mobilize public participation and set the groundwork for a 2025 consultation focused on key legislative and institutional changes. (El Espectador) (Presidencia de Colombia)

• Colombia's sales in manufacturing and commerce rebound, but overall industrial output remains in decline. The latest economic surveys reveal that while sectors like manufacturing and retail are showing recovery in sales figures, persistent negative trends in broader industrial performance underscore potential challenges for economic growth. (El Espectador)

🇨🇷 Costa Rica

• Costa Rica is urged to deepen economic reforms to sustain its robust post-pandemic growth. The OECD survey highlights the need for fiscal discipline through reduced public debt, improved spending reviews, and enhanced technical skills to boost exports and drive inclusive growth. (Mirage News) (OECD Economic Survey).

• Costa Rica's strong economic performance and fiscal consolidation are highlighted as critical for its future stability. The IMF report notes that despite sustained GDP growth above 5% since 2021 and a significant reduction in public debt, further reforms—such as enhanced central bank autonomy, improved fiscal management, and targeted social security adjustments—are essential to address emerging risks and maintain a 4% growth trajectory in 2025. (IMF)

🇩🇴 Dominican Republic

• Energy and Mines has initiated a competitive bidding process for hydrocarbon exploration and production across four key basins in the Dominican Republic. The new eight-year exploratory program covers 10 zones—spanning the Cibao Oriental, Azua, Enriquillo, and San Juan basins—and requires strict financial guarantees to ensure commitment and project seriousness. (Listín Diario)

• Blackouts have returned to the Dominican Republic as key power plants have gone offline, raising concerns about the nation's energy stability. The outages are disrupting daily life and prompting urgent calls for corrective measures to restore reliable power supply. (Prensa Latina)

🇪🇨 Ecuador

• Ecuador’s top presidential contenders pledge to uphold traditional values on life, childhood, and family in a bid to influence national policy before the decisive runoff. Their commitment, forged with the “Sociedad & Familia” collective, emphasizes protecting life from conception to natural death, ensuring parental rights in education, and rejecting gender ideology in schools—all of which may significantly shape future legislative measures. (ACI Prensa)

• The Inter-American Court condemns Ecuador for violating the rights of isolated indigenous peoples, stressing the need for robust protections for vulnerable communities. The ruling mandates that Ecuador address systemic failures in safeguarding indigenous rights related to life, culture, and territory, signaling broader implications for human rights in the region. (RFI Noticias de América)

• Ecuador’s proposal to host a U.S. military base alongside forging a trade agreement signals a strategic move to enhance its security and economic positioning. The initiative aims to attract foreign investment and reshape regional defense dynamics while strengthening ties with key global powers. (La Republica)

🇸🇻 El Salvador

• U.S. allocates $6 million to transfer nearly 300 alleged gang members to El Salvador for a one-year detention, signaling a significant shift in handling migration and crime concerns. The decision, made after high-level talks between U.S. and Salvadoran officials, aims to address security challenges while igniting debates over legal and human rights implications. (AP News) (Reuters)

🇬🇹 Guatemala

• Guatemala's decision to send journalist Zamora back to prison highlights deep concerns about media freedom and judicial independence. The ruling, which revokes his house arrest over money laundering charges that Zamora claims are politically motivated, underscores ongoing tensions between the government and independent press. (Reuters)

🇭🇳 Honduras

• Honduras’ contentious primary elections underscore deep political and economic fissures as voters express growing frustration with security and governance. The unfolding vote highlights a critical juncture before the general elections, with irregularities and delays fueling public distrust and hinting at a potential political realignment. (AP News)

🇲🇽 Mexico

• Trump commends Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum for her strong negotiating style, highlighting a shift in US-Mexico diplomatic dynamics. During a recent call to postpone tariffs, he praised her preparedness and direct communication, marking a notable contrast to previous exchanges. This exchange underscores an evolving bilateral relationship built on mutual respect and strategic dialogue. (La Jornada) (New York Times).

🇳🇮 Nicaragua

• Nicaragua’s media faces unprecedented government pressure as Ortega’s regime intensifies its blockade on press freedom. The ongoing restrictions have led to widespread concerns about the erosion of democratic institutions and the suppression of dissenting voices, further isolating the country on the international stage. (EFE)

🇵🇦 Panama

• Panama's decision to free deported U.S. migrants marks a pivotal shift in its migration policy. The move aims to offer humanitarian relief to individuals previously returned by U.S. authorities and could influence broader regional approaches to migration management. (The New York Times)

• China denounces the sale of a key port by the Panama Canal to BlackRock, warning of escalating U.S. influence over strategic global trade routes. The criticism reflects broader geopolitical tensions and signals potential shifts in international economic power balances. (El Financiero)

🇵🇾 Paraguay

• Paraguay’s foreign trade experienced a slight slowdown in the first two months, highlighting emerging challenges for its export sector. Overall, the trade volume decreased by 0.1% with exports falling by 1.3% and soy shipments declining by 19%, while meat exports surged nearly 40%, indicating mixed sectoral performance. (ABC Color)

🇵🇪 Peru

• Moody’s assigned a stable outlook to Petroperú, forecasting financial improvements driven by the Talara refinery. The rating agency expects EBITDA growth by 2025, supported by government financial aid and increased market share, though challenges remain due to high debt and limited refining capacity. (La República)

• Peru's Congress enacted a new "gag law" that intensifies penalties for defamation, raising concerns over press freedom. The measure, criticized for curbing free expression, expands fines and mandates corrections, triggering alarm among media organizations about potential government overreach. (El Comercio)

🇻🇪 Venezuela

• President Trump invoked a controversial law against foreign adversaries, signaling a provocative stance in U.S. policy. The move was linked to actions involving the Aragua Trax train, heightening debates over national security and international relations. (CNN Español)

🇺🇸 Miami

• US Congress remains deadlocked as the shutdown deadline looms. Disagreements over spending cuts and conflicting demands between Republicans and Democrats are stalling efforts to extend government funding, risking extensive furloughs and operational disruptions. (Reuters)

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Funding

Jusfy 🇧🇷 raised a $5.18M early‑stage VC round with funding from SaaSholic 🇧🇷, The LegalTech Fund 🇺🇸, Sun Moritz 🇧🇷, MAYA Capital 🇧🇷, and FJ Labs 🇺🇸 to build an all-in-one legal platform that offers comprehensive legal tools and consulting services. The company streamlines complex legal calculations and integrates essential software for lawyers, accountants, individuals, and businesses, simplifying legal processes and empowering users with efficient, consolidated legal solutions.

Acquisition News

• Mobly 🇧🇷 acquired Tok & Stok 🇧🇷, a retail chain specializing in home furniture and decor, offering durable, quality products at fair prices to expand its market presence by integrating a robust physical retail network with its online furniture and decoration operations.

• WiseTech Global 🇦🇺 acquired OpenTecnologia 🇨🇴, a provider of specialized software solutions for the logistics and business sectors, to enhance its CargoWise platform and capitalize on emerging opportunities in the international freight-forwarding market.

• Banco Santander Peru 🇵🇪 acquired Crediscotia Financiera 🇵🇪, a banking services provider in Peru offering a comprehensive range of products including loans, mortgages, credit/debit cards, savings accounts, fixed-term deposits, money transfers, and various insurance services through its agencies and ATMs to expand its retail banking portfolio and reinforce its market leadership in the Latin American region.

Startup & VC News

• MercadoLibre 🇦🇷 announced a $3.4B investment in Mexico to expand its tech and financial services, fueling job growth and strengthening its market presence by planning to onboard 10,000 new employees—marking a 38% increase over last year’s spending—as the company leverages its booming second-largest market amid tighter tariffs on Chinese competitors. (Reuters)

Sociopolitical News

🇦🇷 Argentina

• Argentina's president, Javier Milei, champions sweeping economic reforms to stabilize a volatile market. His policy push to reduce state size, streamline public finances, and secure a free trade agreement with the U.S. — coupled with imminent IMF negotiations — is poised to reshape the nation's economic landscape ahead of critical midterm elections. (Reuters)

• Argentina's president, Javier Milei, hints at a potential withdrawal from Mercosur to realign national economic priorities. He argues that the bloc has chiefly benefited Brazilian business interests while disadvantaging Argentines, and he is prepared to pursue a U.S.-aligned trade deal that might require exiting Mercosur. (El País)

🇧🇷 Brazil

• Brazil to scrap import tariffs on basic foodstuffs to help counter soaring food prices. The government is set to eliminate duties on essentials like sugar and sardines to ease inflationary pressures and rebalance trade dynamics. (Financial Times)

• Brazil's engagement with U.S. trade officials signals a potential softening of looming tariffs on key exports. A positive video call between Brazil’s Vice President and a senior U.S. trade adviser focused on U.S. tariff policy and continued dialogue, possibly paving the way for postponement of imminent steel and aluminum duties. (Reuters)

🇨🇱 Chile

• Chile’s Interior Minister’s resignation intensifies speculation over a potential presidential bid, signaling major political realignments. The move is interpreted as a strategic shift that could reshape the nation’s leadership dynamics and spur further electoral debate. (Bloomberg)

• Chile's accession to the European Extradition Convention bolsters international efforts against transnational crime. It streamlines extradition by obliging member states to cooperate under clear legal standards, extending Chile’s network beyond its existing bilateral treaties. (Minrel)

🇨🇴 Colombia

• Rice farmers' prolonged strike poses a critical threat to Colombia's food security and rural economy. The protest demands direct government intervention to stabilize rice prices and upgrade key infrastructure, highlighting the urgent need to protect thousands of livelihoods amid limited policy measures. (Semana)

• Fitch Ratings has downgraded Colombia’s outlook to negative amid mounting fiscal vulnerabilities. The move underscores concerns over widening budget deficits and high public debt that could spur higher borrowing costs and dampen investor confidence. (Bloomberg)

• Petro's push to legalize marijuana signals a transformative step in Colombia's approach to drug policy. He has called on Congress to enact reforms that could dismantle the illicit market while spurring economic opportunities and enhancing public security. (DW)

🇨🇷 Costa Rica

• Trump’s proposed dismantling of the U.S. Chips Act casts uncertainty over Costa Rica’s semiconductor investment strategy. Costa Rica, once seen as a prime destination for microprocessor production due to anticipated funding and training incentives, now faces potential setbacks as investors might redirect operations to the U.S. In response, the country is strengthening its talent development and regulatory measures to maintain its competitive edge. (El Financiero)

🇩🇴 Dominican Republic

• Dominican Republic's $85M investment plan marks a pivotal step toward a sustainable energy transition. The initiative is set to unlock over $1.1 billion in private co-financing, modernize the nation's energy infrastructure, and support communities while reducing reliance on fossil fuels. (Diario Libre)

🇪🇨 Ecuador

• Ecuador awards a 20-year oil contract to a Sinopec-led consortium to boost output from its flagship Sacha block. The deal, which features a significant upfront cash payment and an additional multi-billion-dollar investment plan, is set to modernize the aging asset and significantly increase national revenues. (Reuters)

• Ecuador’s president grants a preventive pardon to police and military forces deployed in a high-violence zone to strengthen the fight against organized crime. The measure follows deadly clashes in Guayaquil that left 22 dead and is part of a broader security strategy amid rising concerns over human rights abuses. (Diario Las Américas)

🇸🇻 El Salvador

• El Salvador deepens its crypto strategy by boosting its bitcoin reserve amid international fiscal oversight. The country’s latest acquisition, which brings its holdings above 6,102 coins, aligns with conditions set under a recent IMF-backed program, reflecting its ongoing commitment to a cryptocurrency-driven economic model while managing external financial constraints. (Reuters)

🇬🇹 Guatemala

• Guatemala deploys troops to its border with Mexico to counter illegal migration and drug smuggling. The move is aimed at bolstering border security amid rising cross-border criminal activities and migration pressures. It reflects the government's proactive approach to addressing transnational security challenges. (Border Report)

🇭🇳 Honduras

• Chinese-Spanish group secures a strategic energy storage contract in Honduras. The win underscores a surge in international investments to modernize the nation’s energy infrastructure, bolstering grid reliability and supporting renewable growth. (BN Americas)

🇲🇽 Mexico

• Mexico to implement new tariff measures against the United States starting March 9, intensifying trade tensions. The decision is aimed at protecting domestic industries and may provoke further economic countermeasures. (HuffPost Global)

• Mexico weighs tariffs on Chinese imports, a move that could redefine its trade policies and signal a shift toward protectionism. The proposal is aimed at safeguarding domestic industries and curbing Chinese market influence, echoing strategies from past U.S. trade disputes. (La República)

🇳🇮 Nicaragua

• Nicaragua’s sweeping constitutional reforms further entrench authoritarian power and threaten fundamental rights. The proposed changes consolidate governmental control and erode democratic safeguards, drawing strong condemnation from human rights organizations ahead of the review by the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights. (CEJIL)

• Nicaragua’s leaders consolidate power by establishing a vast force of 76,800 paramilitaries, escalating authoritarian control. The strategic move intensifies concerns over democratic erosion and poses risks to regional stability, prompting alarm among human rights advocates. (El País)

🇵🇦 Panama

• BlackRock acquires Panamanian ports from Hong Kong conglomerate Hutchison, marking a strategic shift in global infrastructure investments. The deal expands BlackRock’s logistics portfolio and underscores growing investor interest in Central American assets, potentially reshaping regional trade dynamics. (La República)

🇵🇾 Paraguay

• Paraguay and Germany solidify a new cooperation alliance during a high-level presidential visit, marking a pivotal step in strengthening bilateral relations. The engagement is set to enhance economic ties and foster strategic initiatives, potentially boosting trade and development projects between the two nations. (La República)

• Paraguay moves forward in strengthening drug price regulation to ensure affordable access amid rising costs. The initiative is designed to stabilize pharmaceutical prices and enhance public health safeguards by countering recent cost surges. (PAHO)

🇵🇪 Peru

• Telefonica Peru's loss declaration alongside a S/1153M payout to its parent company highlights a contentious financial maneuver. The significant transfer amid reported losses raises questions about internal fiscal policies and could undermine investor confidence. (Ojo Público)

🇻🇪 Venezuela

• Venezuelan rights group Provea reveals that 121 women are being politically detained, underscoring ongoing gender-specific repression. The disclosure, which highlights the detention of prominent activist Rocío San Miguel among others, raises serious concerns about human rights violations and due process in Venezuela. (W Radio)

• Maduro pursues new alliances with China and Turkey to counterbalance Chevron’s exit, aiming to stabilize Venezuela’s oil sector amid economic turmoil. The strategy, part of a broader plan for economic independence, seeks to mitigate the significant revenue shortfall caused by Chevron’s departure while addressing rising inflation and dwindling foreign currency reserves. (El País)

🇺🇸 Miami

• Saudi Arabia opens a new investment office in Miami to expand its financial outreach into the U.S. and South America. The initiative, announced by Minister of Investment Khalid Bin Abdulaziz Al-Falih at a Miami summit, is part of a broader plan to boost trade and investment by $600B over the next four years. The move reinforces Miami’s status as an emerging global financial hub and deepens bilateral economic ties. (South Florida Business Journal)

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Funding

YaVendió 🇵🇪 raised a $850K Pre Seed Round with funding from Semilla Ventures 🇲🇽, Magma Partners 🇺🇸, and iThink VC 🇵🇾 to develop an AI-backed virtual seller platform designed for e-commerce businesses. The platform employs an AI-powered virtual seller assistant on WhatsApp to engage customers, answer their queries, and close sales around the clock, thereby boosting sales, conversions, and customer support.

Brick 🇧🇷 raised a $850K Seed round with funding from Honey Island by 4UM 🇧🇷, Broom Ventures 🇺🇸, and strategic angel investors to offer advanced profiling and fleet insurance tools. The company's platform identifies, prevents, and mitigates risks by providing real-time risk reports, enabling small and medium-sized car rental companies to avoid fraud and reduce claims while making fleet insurance more affordable.

Buser 🇧🇷 raised a $5M Later Stage VC round with funding from 4Equity Media Ventures 🇧🇷 to revolutionize bus travel in Brazil by offering a digital marketplace where travelers can join forces to charter buses together. The platform not only cuts travel costs but also fosters a community-driven experience, making group travel more accessible and efficient.

Malga 🇧🇷 raised a $5.44M Series A round with funding from TOTVS 🇧🇷, iDEXO 🇧🇷, and Costanoa Ventures 🇺🇸 to build a payments-as-a-service platform designed to integrate multiple payment channels. The platform routes transactions to optimize costs and acceptance rates, avoid lock-in, and ensure clients always work with the best provider on a transaction-to-transaction basis, making their payment processes more efficient.

Capim 🇧🇷 raised a $26.7M Series A round with funding from Valor Capital Group 🇺🇸, QED Investors 🇺🇸, and ONEVC 🇧🇷 to develop a financial management platform focused on healthcare and essential needs. The platform offers point-of-sale buy-now-pay-later options, tools for financing risk-free treatments, and invoice management solutions through partnerships with clinics and offices, enabling dentists to efficiently manage their practices and retain patients.

Acquisition News

• PaySecure 🇦🇺 acquired a stake of A55 🇧🇷, a developer of a financial platform offering revenue-backed credit lines by integrating bank accounts, escrow, billing, and payment data for SMEs, to expand its footprint in Latin America.

• Involves 🇧🇷 acquired Datamind 🇨🇱, a developer of a data analysis platform offering analytics and reports for commercial and marketing areas, to expand retail data intelligence in Latin America.

Startup & VC News

• Reversso 🇨🇱 announced its alliance with Blue Express and Uber Direct to launch an on-demand returns service to revolutionize the e-commerce post-sale experience by enabling express home pick-ups in under 20 minutes and reducing the environmental footprint across 25+ cities in Chile. (Startups Latam)

• Brazil's Banco Central 🇧🇷 announced a public consultation to restrict fintechs from using “banco” and “bank” in their names to enhance transparency in financial services by ensuring companies accurately represent their authorized operations and avoid misleading consumers about their status as banks. The consultation is open until May 31, 2025, inviting suggestions to refine these rules. (Finsiders Brasil)

• Itaú BBA 🇧🇷 announced its recognition as Investment Bank of the Year – Brazil to highlight its resilient performance in debt capital markets during a challenging equity market environment, driven by record-breaking DCM activity that boosted its market share to 16.2% and net revenue to $114M in 2024, solidifying its leadership in the Brazilian financial sector. (LatinFinance)

• Impact Ventures PSM & Impacta VC 🇲🇽 announced the launch of Impact Ventures PSM Seed, a US$5M seed fund aimed at financing up to 20 early-stage impact startups across sectors like education, health, agtech, and climate tech to bridge the critical early-stage funding gap in Latin America and empower scalable social and environmental innovations. (LATAM Republic)

Sociopolitical News

🇦🇷 Argentina

• Telefónica’s $1.25bn sale of its Argentine unit has spurred President Javier Milei to order an antitrust probe amid concerns over potential market monopolization. The deal, part of Telefónica’s strategic pullback from the region under its new leadership, has intensified scrutiny from Milei’s government as it seeks to safeguard competition in Argentina’s telecom sector. (FT) (Bloomberg)

• Argentina’s President Milei bypassed Congress to appoint two controversial Supreme Court judges by decree, raising concerns over judicial independence. The move, which he justified as necessary due to the court's limited capacity, has sparked fierce criticism from lawmakers and human rights groups who warn it undermines constitutional checks and balances. (AP News)

• Argentina deploys its military to protect sovereign Atlantic waters from a surge of foreign fishing vessels. The government’s action aims to curb potential illegal fishing and safeguard national marine resources amid increasing incursions by fleets from China, Spain, Korea, and Taiwan. (Newsweek)

🇧🇷 Brazil

• Brazil opts to rely on contracted growth and its established fiscal framework instead of introducing extraordinary economic measures. The government’s stance reflects a commitment to fiscal discipline and confidence in the resilience of current economic contracts, even as job creation remains strong and forecasts are tempered by high interest rates. (Reuters)

• Brazil's offshore oil production is under threat as regulators intensify their crackdown on drilling activities. The stricter oversight is set to enforce enhanced safety and environmental standards, potentially curtailing investment and impacting future production, which could have broader implications for the country's energy market. (Bloomberg)

• Brazil’s central bank urges caution as credit growth surges amid persistently high debt levels. The caution highlights concerns that unchecked lending could exacerbate financial risks and destabilize the economy, underscoring the need for a balanced credit expansion strategy. (Reuters)

🇨🇱 Chile

• Massive blackout in Chile forces emergency evacuations from Santiago’s metro, highlighting critical infrastructure vulnerabilities. The widespread power outage disrupted daily commutes and triggered urgent safety measures, underscoring the need for improved urban resilience and rapid emergency response systems. (Le Monde)

• Chilean voters reverting to moderate conservatism drives market gains ahead of key elections. The political shift—bolstered by a compromise pension reform—has spurred record highs in the Chilean stock market, signaling renewed investor confidence and a move toward centrist policies. (Reuters)

🇨🇴 Colombia

• New Labor Minister Antonio Sanguino warns that Colombia needs a second wave of reforms to deepen its transformational change. In an exclusive interview, he outlines his mandate to advance crucial labor and pension reforms while stressing that his appointment is a decision based on policy, not electoral bargaining. (El País América Colombia)

• Colombia’s inaugural offshore wind energy auction attracts global investment interest, marking a pivotal shift toward sustainable energy. The auction is set to accelerate the nation’s renewable energy transition by opening up opportunities for international developers to build offshore wind projects that diversify the country’s energy portfolio. (Reuters)

• Colombia secures a $700 million World Bank loan to bolster social programs and green investments. The funding, which complements a prior $750 million climate loan, aims to support inclusive and climate-resilient development by enhancing social spending for vulnerable groups and promoting sustainable projects. (LatinFinance)

🇨🇷 Costa Rica

• Costa Rica's abstention from a pivotal UN vote on condemning Russia's Ukraine invasion signals a marked shift in its traditional foreign policy stance. The unexpected reversal from its initial co-sponsorship has sparked domestic controversy, with former leaders decrying the decision as a betrayal of international law and the nation's core values. (Tico Times)

🇩🇴 Dominican Republic

• Dominican Republic’s rapid demographic shifts—marked by high population growth, urbanization, and substantial emigration—are reshaping its socio-economic landscape. A youthful population and accelerated urban expansion, especially in cities like Santo Domingo, coupled with significant migration to the United States, have eased local resource pressures while bolstering family incomes through remittances. (Britannica)

🇪🇨 Ecuador

• Ecuadorian judge suspends Vice President Verónica Abad Rojas’ rights for two years, a move that underscores escalating institutional conflict ahead of pivotal elections. The decision highlights a growing judicial pushback against executive actions, potentially reshaping the nation’s political balance. (Bloomberg)

🇸🇻 El Salvador

• IMF approves a vital 40‑month Extended Fund Facility for El Salvador to reinforce fiscal stability and stimulate sustainable growth. The arrangement, valued at US$1.4 billion with an immediate disbursement of about US$113 million, aims to address macroeconomic imbalances, enhance fiscal governance, and mitigate Bitcoin-related risks while paving the way for additional multilateral support. (International Monetary Fund)

🇬🇹 Guatemala

• BAC Credomatic’s $140 million sustainable bond issuance in Guatemala marks a pivotal move towards expanding eco-friendly and social financing in the region. The deal, arranged by IDB Invest—with significant participation from LAGreen and Proparco—will fund green and social loans for SMEs as part of a broader $500 million bond program, reinforcing sustainable finance standards in Guatemala. (LatinFinance)

🇭🇳 Honduras

• Honduras restores nearly all power after a nationwide blackout disrupted energy supply. The blackout, confined to Honduras despite earlier regional failure reports, underscores vulnerabilities in the country's power infrastructure as officials continue investigating its cause. (Reuters)

🇲🇽 Mexico

• Tariff threats and intensified border security measures are reshaping North American trade and economic policy. Facing imminent U.S. tariffs and anti-drug imperatives, Canada and Mexico are coordinating on matching tariffs on Chinese goods and enhancing border controls, while Mexico sharpens its economic outlook amid a downgraded GDP forecast due to reduced consumption and investment. (Reuters) (El País)

• Mexico’s extradition of drug cartel leaders to the U.S. signals a pivotal recalibration in its fight against organized crime. The move is part of a broader strategy to dismantle powerful criminal networks amid escalating cross-border violence, though it also sparks debate over national sovereignty and judicial fairness. (Al Jazeera)

🇳🇮 Nicaragua

• UN report urges global action amid Nicaragua's deepening authoritarian repression. The report condemns President Daniel Ortega and co-president Rosario Murillo for dismantling institutional checks and consolidating power through expanded presidential authority, with human rights abuses reminiscent of past violent crackdowns. The call for legal measures against potential crimes against humanity signals mounting international concern over Nicaragua’s democratic erosion. (Reuters)

• Nicaragua withdraws from the UN Human Rights Council amid escalating global criticism over its human rights record. The move is seen as an attempt by the Ortega government to sidestep international scrutiny while facing mounting allegations of authoritarian repression, potentially further isolating the country on the world stage. (Reuters)

🇵🇦 Panama

• Panama formalizes a migrant boat route to manage reverse migration, marking a strategic response to a shift in asylum flows amid stricter U.S. immigration policies. The government is converting a long-used smuggling pathway into an organized system to return Venezuelan and Colombian migrants who have abandoned their U.S. asylum hopes, even as safety concerns rise after a boat capsized, claiming an 8-year-old girl's life. (AP News)

• Panama postpones a key decision on the Cobre Panama copper mine amid unresolved social security reforms, impacting both investor confidence and potential global copper supply. The delay underscores the government's priority to resolve domestic policy issues before addressing lucrative mining contracts, potentially affecting First Quantum Minerals’ arbitration and the export of 120,000 tons of copper concentrate. (Reuters)

🇵🇾 Paraguay

• Brazil and Paraguay settle decades-long disputes by redefining the Itaip energy deal, paving the way for more balanced and cooperative energy management. The updated agreement revises power distribution and financial terms to stabilize regional energy markets and strengthen bilateral ties. (news.az)

• Paraguay concludes its cash tender offer for existing bonds with robust acceptance results, marking a strategic milestone in its debt management efforts. The offer’s expiration and strong investor participation highlight the government's commitment to optimizing its debt portfolio and strengthening market confidence. (PR Newswire)

🇵🇪 Peru

• Peru's annual inflation cooling to 1.5% underscores its stable economic outlook amid easing price pressures. The inflation rate for February met forecasts, suggesting that effective monetary measures are keeping consumer prices in check despite external economic uncertainties. (Bloomberg)

🇻🇪 Venezuela

• Trump revokes Chevron’s oil license in Venezuela, intensifying U.S. pressure on Maduro’s regime over unmet electoral and migration commitments. The move cancels a Biden-era concession that allowed Chevron to export a significant share of Venezuela’s crude, aiming to cut off a major revenue stream for Maduro’s government and signal renewed U.S. insistence on democratic reforms. (Reuters) (AP) (Aljazeera).

🇺🇸 Miami

• SEC seeks regulatory changes to streamline capital formation and expand investor access. The proposals aim to lower compliance costs for startups and public companies while opening private markets to a broader range of retail investors, potentially fueling innovation and economic growth. (Latham & Watkins)

• Trump’s policy moves are raising alarms over U.S. economic growth and inflation, shaping investor strategies. At the CFA Society Miami Economic Outlook Dinner, experts warned that potential tariffs and fiscal policy shifts could slow GDP growth and pressure inflation, with forecasts of 4% returns for cash, 5% for bonds, and 6-7% for stocks amid uncertainty. (Funds Society)

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Funding

EcoTrove 🇲🇽 raised a $1.5 Million Pre Seed round with funding from Pear VC 🇺🇸 and e2vc 🇺🇸 to revolutionize energy billing through power-saving technology. The company replaces traditional utility bills with a flat-rate payment plan, guarantees cost savings, and profits only when customers save more than promised. Its platform helps households and businesses reduce energy expenses, achieve predictable billing, and prioritize sustainable practices that cut carbon emissions.

Advolve.ai 🇧🇷 raised a $5.3 Million Seed round with funding from Canary 🇧🇷, Valor Capital 🇧🇷, and Prosus Ventures 🇳🇱 to optimize data-driven marketing through AI-powered advertising automation. The company’s platform automates campaign creation, enables real-time experimentation across creatives, audiences, channels, and budgets, and generates AI-driven content, empowering businesses to maximize return on ad spend (ROAS) and scale performance marketing efficiently.

V360 🇧🇷 raised a $6.98 Million Early Stage Venture round with funding from Cloud9 Capital 🇧🇷 to provide an enterprise management system for automated invoice processing and financial document management. The company’s platform automates document capture from various sources, applies customizable validations, and integrates with ERP systems to streamline accounts payable, enabling businesses to enhance processing efficiency and reduce fines, interest, and errors in tax receipts.

NG.Cash 🇧🇷 raised a $10 Million round with funding from monashees 🇧🇷, Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) 🇺🇸, 17Sigma 🇺🇸, Tekon 🇧🇷, and The Generalist 🇺🇸 to offer digital accounts to young people in Latin America. The company’s platform provides a comprehensive digital banking experience tailored to the needs of Generation Z, ensuring autonomy and innovation for millions of users.

Timbro 🇧🇷 raised a $17.44 Million Debt Financing round with funding from UBS BB 🇧🇷, One Corporate 🇧🇷, and Banco Daycoval 🇧🇷 to build a multisectoral global trade platform connecting businesses from farmers to governments with tailored solutions. With offices across all continents and over a decade of experience, Timbro combines adaptability, risk management, and a vast international network to drive sustainable growth for partners worldwide.

Acquisition News

• Publicis Groupe 🇫🇷 acquired BR Media Group 🇧🇷, a Brazilian influence marketing consultancy connecting brands and influencers, to bolster its digital marketing and influencer strategy capabilities in Latin America, enhancing end-to-end advertising solutions for global clients.

• BYX Capital 🇧🇷 acquired NVIO 🇲‍🇽, a licensed direct credit society formerly serving as Bitso’s payment platform in Brazil, to fortify its banking infrastructure—eliminating the need for third‐party banking-as-a-service providers—and to broaden its credit offerings beyond payroll loans into new financial markets.

Startup & VC News

• JICA 🇯🇵 announced a $1 billion contribution to IDB Invest’s new fund aimed at financing sustainable growth across Latin America and the Caribbean to catalyze private investment, spur innovation, and help close the region’s critical $99 billion annual sustainable financing gap—with plans to potentially expand the fund to $1.5 billion over three years. This initiative, the largest private sector fund in the region and the first with IDB Invest, employs an “originate-to-share” strategy that seeds local investment opportunities and syndicates parts of them to other investors, enabling rapid reinvestment and amplified economic impact. (Reuters)

• Mastercard 🇺🇸 announced the release of its whitepaper, “The New Era of Financial Inclusion in Latin America,” which reveals a 340% surge in fintech players—now over 3,000 operating across 26 countries—and key survey insights showing that 75% of consumers have reduced their cash reliance, with significant improvements in transaction efficiency, financial planning, and access to credit to demonstrate how digital financial solutions are transforming traditional banking, empowering underserved communities, and paving the way for a more inclusive financial ecosystem across Latin America and the Caribbean. (Mastercard Newsroom)

• 99 Startups 🇲🇽 announced the successful closing of its inaugural fund to boost startup growth in Latin America to empower emerging tech ventures with essential capital and strategic support, fueling innovation and regional market expansion. (Techla.Pro)

Sociopolitical News

🇦🇷 Argentina

• Argentina streamlines fertilizer regulations to simplify operator registration and expedite agro-industrial imports. The government update under Decree 101/2025 eliminates registration expiration and replaces lengthy SENASA approvals with a simple prior notification for transporting ammonium nitrate, boosting international competitiveness. (3tres3 LATAM)

• Argentina’s Senate has approved a law suspending primary elections, a move that could radically alter the nation’s electoral process amid intense political divisions. The measure, influenced by proposals from presidential candidate Javier Milei’s camp, has ignited fierce debates over democratic norms and electoral legitimacy. (France24)

• Cryptocurrency adoption in Argentina has surged, signaling a major shift in financial behavior amid ongoing economic challenges. Statista’s graph highlights a dramatic increase from around 160,000 users in 2017 to significantly higher numbers in recent years, underlining the growing reliance on digital currencies as an alternative to traditional financial systems. (Statista)

🇧🇷 Brazil

• Brazil’s Central Bank will adjust interest rates as necessary after March to respond to evolving economic conditions. The central bank’s decision, announced by its director, reflects a flexible monetary policy aimed at curbing inflation and safeguarding economic stability amid ongoing uncertainties. (Marketscreener)

• Brazil’s Prosecutor’s Office has indicted former President Bolsonaro for his alleged role in a 2022 attempted coup, a landmark move in holding leaders accountable for undermining democracy. The charges reflect ongoing legal and political battles in Brazil, intensifying scrutiny over past undemocratic actions while deepening the nation’s political polarization. (Infobae)

• Brazil’s decision to join OPEC+ marks a pivotal shift in its energy strategy, aligning the country with major oil-exporting nations ahead of the UN climate summit. The move, approved by Brazil’s National Energy Policy Council, is set to boost the nation’s oil sector while fueling debates over balancing fossil fuel production with environmental commitments. (Local10)

🇨🇱 Chile

• Chile reaffirms support for Venezuela’s democratic transition by recognizing opposition leader Edmundo González as the legitimate president-elect, intensifying pressure on Maduro’s regime. Chile’s government announced new diplomatic measures that underscore its commitment to human rights and electoral transparency in Venezuela, signaling a clear break from Maduro’s contested rule. (EFE)

🇨🇴 Colombia

• Cúcuta enforces a curfew after a spate of explosive attacks escalates violence along the Venezuelan border. Authorities declared a citywide curfew following a series of explosive incidents and armed attacks in key areas, raising urgent security concerns amid ongoing instability in the region. (CNN Español) (El País)

• Colombian President Gustavo Petro warns that the U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement (TLC) harms Colombia’s agricultural sector and would welcome its termination. He argued that the trade deal has disproportionately benefited the United States while undermining local farmers and devaluing Colombian exports, and suggested that a unilateral U.S. exit from the agreement would be applauded. (Infobae)

🇨🇷 Costa Rica

• Costa Rica will act as a transit hub for migrants deported by the United States, a move that underscores the shifting dynamics of migration policy in the region. The German news outlet reports that Costa Rica has agreed to temporarily host migrants expelled by U.S. authorities, providing them with essential services and safe transit, while regional organizations monitor the human rights implications. (DW)

• Costa Rica’s president warns that migrants deported from third party countries by the U.S. could be detained for up to six weeks, a decision that could reshape regional migration management. The announcement, made amid ongoing tensions over U.S. immigration policies and regional humanitarian challenges, reflects Costa Rica’s strategy to temporarily shelter and process deportees before returning them to their home countries. (Reuters)

🇩🇴 Dominican Republic

• The Dominican Republic capitalizes on strong investor demand by issuing new bonds, boosting its market credibility. The move is expected to enhance liquidity and attract additional international capital amid favorable economic conditions. (Bloomberg Línea)

🇪🇨 Ecuador

• Ecuadorian Army’s demolition of two informal border bridges intensifies tensions and disrupts local livelihoods. The controlled destruction, aimed at curbing illegal mining and extortion, has sparked diplomatic protests from Colombia’s ambassador and condemnation from Cumbal’s mayor, who argue that the action undermines historic community ties and breaches international protocols. (Infobae)

• Ecuador’s plan to enlist allied nations in its fight against drug trafficking marks a significant escalation in its battle against transnational organized crime. President Daniel Noboa’s government will request the deployment of special forces via diplomatic channels as part of its declared war on narcoterrorism, complementing existing maritime cooperation with the United States and recent police operations in Guayaquil. (DW)

🇸🇻 El Salvador

• El Salvador pauses its daily Bitcoin purchases under an IMF loan agreement, marking a significant pivot in its crypto policy. The new agreement requires the country to scale back its Bitcoin initiatives and make Bitcoin acceptance voluntary for businesses, a move that may alter Bitcoin’s market dynamics by reducing a steady source of demand. (Blockchain.News)

🇬🇹 Guatemala

• Guatemala’s President Bernardo Arévalo will travel to Uruguay for Yamandú Orsi’s investiture and meet with former leader José Mujica, marking a significant gesture in regional diplomacy. Arévalo announced his trip on February 19, planning to depart on February 28 to attend the investiture on March 1, and he may also engage with other regional leaders. (Prensa Libre)

🇭🇳 Honduras

• Honduras acted as a humanitarian bridge by facilitating the safe transfer of 170 deported Venezuelans back to their country amid strict US immigration policies. The operation, conducted at the Soto Cano joint military base, involved coordinated efforts by Honduran, US, and Venezuelan officials, underscoring the region’s commitment to humane migration practices and diplomatic cooperation. (Prensa Latina)

• India sends humanitarian aid to Honduras, underscoring its commitment to supporting the global South during crises. The aid, comprising essential supplies, reinforces India’s diplomatic outreach and leadership in humanitarian efforts, strengthening ties with developing nations. (India News Network)

• Honduras has bolstered security measures by extending the state of exception to ensure safe and free participation in the upcoming primary elections. The move, which prolongs security efforts until April 5, aims to reduce violence and protect voters, reflecting the government’s commitment to maintaining public order and combating criminality during the electoral process. (Prensa Latina)

🇲🇽 Mexico

• U.S. spy drones operate legally under Mexico’s request, highlighting a strategic security collaboration amid rising border tensions. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum clarified that the drones—used to monitor drug cartels and locate fentanyl labs—are deployed as part of a longstanding, legally sanctioned protocol between Mexico and the U.S., countering claims of unauthorized espionage. This assertion comes as Mexico reinforces its border security by deploying 10,000 National Guard personnel in a broader negotiation context with U.S. trade policies. (W Radio)

• President Trump urged Apple CEO Tim Cook to relocate the company’s production from Mexico to the United States, signaling a push for domestic manufacturing. He criticized Mexico’s role in the supply chain and emphasized reshoring as a means to boost American jobs, reflecting his broader economic nationalist agenda. (La República)

• Mexico launches diplomatic negotiations to counter potential 25% U.S. tariff hikes, safeguarding its economic interests. Following a letter by President Sheinbaum, Marcelo Ebrard held constructive talks with U.S. trade officials, aiming to secure concessions on illegal migration and fentanyl control before the March 4 deadline. (AS México)

🇳🇮 Nicaragua

• Nicaragua’s army chief, despite U.S. sanctions, begins his fourth term, signaling a continued hardline military stance amid regional tensions. His reappointment underlines Nicaragua’s determination to uphold its military leadership despite international pressure, potentially deepening diplomatic rifts with the United States. (Swissinfo)

• Nicaragua’s dictator Ortega enables the military and police to bypass public bidding for purchases, deepening concerns over unchecked power and misuse of state funds. The new law, passed unanimously by the National Assembly, exempts these institutions from standard procurement controls, raising alarm among opponents about potential corruption and lack of fiscal oversight. (Infobae)

🇵🇦 Panama

• The Panama Canal allocates additional funds to boost water supply amid prolonged droughts, crucial for sustaining its operations and regional water security. The investment aims to mitigate the impact of recurring dry spells on the canal’s functionality, ensuring uninterrupted maritime trade and environmental stability in the region. (La República)

• A migrant camp near the Darien Gap in Panama underscores the persisting humanitarian crisis driven by stringent U.S. immigration policies with roots in Trump’s hardline approach. The article details the perilous conditions faced by migrants on their journey toward the United States and highlights the broader regional instability and policy challenges that continue to affect Latin America. (The New York Times)

🇵🇾 Paraguay

• Brazil and Paraguay will sign a new Itaipu energy agreement before May 30, ensuring continued stable power supply and favorable pricing for both nations. The pact, forged through intensive bilateral negotiations, aims to adjust contractual terms and reinforce energy security, highlighting the strategic importance of the Itaipu Dam in regional cooperation. (Voz de America)

• Jorge Macri’s visit to Paraguay, where he met with President Santiago Peña and leading figures in the business sector, underscores the recent efforts to strengthen economic and political relations in the region. Macri, a seasoned Argentine politician and entrepreneur whose career has been intricately linked to the evolution of modern Buenos Aires politics, is regarded as a strategic figure in deepening bilateral cooperation and exploring new investment opportunities in the context of evolving regional dynamics. (Infobae)

🇵🇪 Peru

• Peru rejects Mexico’s president support for imprisoned ex-leader Pedro Castillo, underlining the critical need for non-intervention and adherence to the rule of law. The Peruvian government denounced Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum for violating these principles by endorsing Castillo, who remains detained after his failed coup in December 2022. Sheinbaum, however, claimed she met with Castillo’s lawyer to secure embassy assistance for an international complaint regarding what she described as his “injustice.” (DW)

🇻🇪 Venezuela

• The US deportation of 177 Venezuelan detainees from Guantanamo, later repatriated to Venezuela, marks a significant shift in the administration’s immigration enforcement strategy. While the third deportation flight this month has intensified human rights criticisms over Guantanamo’s conditions, Venezuelan officials—led by Diosdado Cabello—celebrated the migrants’ return and condemned the detention center as an “inferno.” (El País) (Infobae)
  
  

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Funding

Glim 🇨🇴 raised a $3.47 Million Seed round with funding from Skandia 🇸🇪, DCG 🇺🇸, and ParaFi 🇺🇸 to develop an enterprise financial wellness platform that provides employees with access to convenient financial products alongside personalized coaching and education. The platform enables employees to save in dollars, earn cashback, and reduce financial stress, helping companies lower payroll costs and attract top talent through comprehensive economic benefits.

CashU 🇧🇷 raised a $17.3 Million Credit Rights Investment Fund (FIDC) round with funding from Itaú BBA 🇧🇷 and Credit Saison 🇯🇵 to develop an embedded financial platform that enhances the security and precision of commercial credit offerings. The platform leverages quick approval technology to grant clients greater autonomy in the credit granting process by addressing market asymmetries with reliable, real-time data, thereby enabling companies to better assess credit risks and opportunities for small and medium-sized businesses.

Acquisition News

• Jeitto 🇧🇷 acquired Pilla 🇧🇷, a developer of a financial management platform that offers financial planning, education, and emergency salary advances to help employees improve their financial well-being, to enhance Jeitto’s employee-centric financial solutions and support broader financial wellness in Brazil.

• Kevel 🇺🇸 acquired Nexta 🇲🇽, a software development company providing cloud infrastructure, technical support, and security services, to broaden its technology capabilities and expand its global service portfolio.

Startup & VC News

• Leadsales 🇲🇽 announced its integration into NVIDIA Inception to accelerate the incorporation of artificial intelligence into its CRM platform, enhancing sales management and customer service for SMEs in Latin America. This collaboration aims to implement predictive lead scoring, intelligent conversation automation, and real-time data analysis, enabling businesses to offer personalized responses and make strategic decisions more efficiently. (Contxto)

• Airwallex 🇦🇺 announced its expansion into Latin America, focusing on Brazil and Mexico to facilitate cross-border payments and support international businesses entering the region. The fintech obtained a payment license from Brazil’s central bank and acquired Mexican firm MexPago, aiming to strengthen financial infrastructure in two of LatAm’s largest economies. (The Jerusalem Post)

Sociopolitical News

🇦🇷 Argentina

• Argentina’s government plans to revoke all medical marijuana cultivation permits, citing safety concerns and irregularities in the current system. This policy shift includes eliminating the Cannabis Registry Program (REPROCANN) and starting anew with the permit process. (Reason)

• Argentina’s President Javier Milei initially endorsed the private crypto token $LIBRA under the “Viva La Libertad Project” as a financing tool for local entrepreneurs, but soon retracted his support after uncovering concerning details about the initiative. Amid growing scrutiny following the token’s dramatic price surge and subsequent crash, lawmakers are now calling for an investigation into Milei’s role in promoting the volatile cryptocurrency. (Bloomberg Línea) (France24)

🇧🇷 Brazil

• Brazilian President Lula da Silva has pledged reciprocal measures if U.S. President Donald Trump imposes increased tariffs on Brazilian imports, particularly steel. Lula emphasized that Brazil prefers peaceful trade relations but will respond through the World Trade Organization or by imposing tariffs on U.S. goods if necessary. (Agência Brasil)

🇨🇱 Chile

• Chile forms a task force to address potential U.S. tariffs on copper, aiming to avoid overreaction and prevent escalation. The group, led by Foreign Minister Alberto Van Klaveren, includes officials from the Mining Ministry, Codelco, and Cochilco, and plans to meet regularly to monitor developments. (AméricaEconomía)

• The Central Bank of Chile held its monetary policy interest rate at 5%, with the board unanimously agreeing that maintaining the rate was the only plausible option amid evolving global financial trends. Local markets have adapted as nominal rates rose and the peso depreciated, while Bank of America had anticipated the decision amid transitory inflation and copper price uncertainties. (AméricaEconomía)

🇨🇴 Colombia

• Colombia has approved a national public policy on Artificial Intelligence (AI) through coordinated efforts by key government ministries, aiming to leverage AI for sustainable socio-economic transformation. The policy allocates nearly 479 billion pesos for initiatives that enhance governance, technological infrastructure, and digital talent, positioning Colombia as a regional leader in ethical AI development. (Ministerio TIC Colombia)

• Colombia’s President Petro faces a crisis as four high-profile cabinet ministers resign amid growing concerns over his leadership and the legacy of the new pink tide in Latin America. The political turmoil underscores mounting challenges in his administration, including policy missteps and deteriorating domestic legitimacy, which may impact the future trajectory of leftist governments in the region. (Foreign Policy)

🇨🇷 Costa Rica

• Costa Rica adopts a cautious yet pragmatic approach to Trump’s policies, balancing concerns over migration pressures and U.S. aid freezes with opportunities in cybersecurity cooperation. Foreign Minister Arnoldo André urged interpreting Trump’s rhetoric as geopolitical signals rather than literal threats, while highlighting risks of migrant backflows straining Central American resources. (POLITICO)

• Panama and Costa Rica have established joint mechanisms to manage the “reverse flow” of irregular migrants returning southward. This initiative aims to ensure an orderly, legal, humanitarian, and safe migration process, preventing migrants from remaining on the streets in both countries. (CNN)

🇩🇴 Dominican Republic

• Senate President Ricardo de los Santos has advocated for leveraging nearshoring to stimulate the Dominican economy, emphasizing the nation’s strategic location and robust legal frameworks. He highlighted initiatives to streamline business processes and boost foreign direct investment, positioning the country as a key logistics hub in the Caribbean. (Dominican Today)

🇪🇨 Ecuador

• Technical tie between González and Noboa forces a runoff in Ecuador’s presidential election in April, reflecting deep political polarization as both candidates vie to capture the majority of votes. The outcome of the second round is seen as pivotal for Ecuador’s future direction amid a complex socio-political landscape. (France 24)

• Air Force Colonel Porfirio Cedeno was fatally attacked by hitmen in Ecuador, prompting authorities to launch an investigation into potential organized crime links. The incident underscores escalating security challenges in the region, raising serious concerns over the safety of military personnel. (CBS News)

🇸🇻 El Salvador

• El Salvador’s government faces allegations of using public funds for political campaigns under President Nayib Bukele, despite recent legislative reforms aimed at increasing transparency. Critics argue the new laws may consolidate power for Bukele’s party while failing to address misuse of state resources during elections. (AP News)

• El Salvador’s Congress approved housing minors convicted of organized crime in adult prisons, though in separate areas, as part of President Nayib Bukele’s controversial anti-gang measures. The law, criticized by rights groups for alleged torture and due process violations, follows a broader crackdown including mass trials and a “mega prison,” while the U.S. considers housing its citizens in Salvadoran jails. (Reuters)

🇬🇹 Guatemala

• Guatemala and the United States have reached a new agreement to expedite the deportation of illegal migrants by increasing deportation flights by 40%, ensuring faster transfers of individuals without legal status to their countries of origin. The pact, confirmed by Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo, aims to reduce detention delays and could raise annual deportations from 60,000 to 90,000, with US funds covering the transport costs. (LA NACION)

🇭🇳 Honduras

• The UAE is emerging as a key financier for Honduras’ ambitious “Canal Seco” infrastructure project, as highlighted by Honduran Public Administration Minister Marcio Sierra. The minister underscored the active involvement of UAE investors in bolstering the country’s infrastructure development, signaling a strengthening economic partnership between the two nations. (WAM)

🇲🇽 Mexico

• Mexico may file a lawsuit against Google if the tech giant changes the name of the Gulf of Mexico on its maps, arguing that such a change would erode the country’s historical and geographical identity. The move, criticized by the Mexican president, underscores national efforts to safeguard cultural heritage in the digital era. (Reuters)

• Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum warned that if U.S. authorities designate drug cartels as terrorist organizations, Mexico will expand its lawsuit against American gunmakers whose firearms are fueling cartel violence. The announcement underscores Mexico’s determination to hold U.S. companies accountable for the illegal arms trade that exacerbates cross-border crime and further strains bilateral relations. (CBS News)

• Mexico has rejected the U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum, announcing plans to request consultations with Washington to address these protectionist measures. The move underscores Mexico’s commitment to defending its industrial interests and maintaining stable bilateral trade relations. (Los Angeles Times)

🇳🇮 Nicaragua

• The European Parliament has denounced Nicaragua’s latest constitutional reform, arguing that the changes further entrench authoritarianism and undermine democratic institutions. The resolution calls on the international community to oppose these measures amid growing concerns over the erosion of checks and balances in the country. (DW)

• Nicaragua’s government sharply criticized the Vatican after exiled bishops appeared on television to denounce state policies, accusing the church of meddling in its internal affairs. The backlash intensifies longstanding tensions between the government and dissident clergy amid growing political strife in the country. (Reuters)

🇵🇦 Panama

• Panamanian police arrested over 480 protesters during nationwide demonstrations against Law 163, a bill that would privatize Social Security, with heavy-handed tactics resulting in over 100 injuries and widespread denunciations of police brutality. The protests, led by trade unions like SUNTRACS, also condemned President Mulino’s pro-US stance and his labeling of protest organizers as “terrorists,” as demonstrators demanded the immediate release of detained workers. (Peoples Dispatch)

• Panama faces significant challenges in reducing poverty and inequality as stagnant human capital development and low-quality employment threaten to cost up to 50% of its future income. The new World Bank report highlights the urgent need for enhanced education, modernized job training, and policies to bridge territorial and ethnic gaps amid persistent labor market disparities. Strengthening these areas is deemed essential for fostering sustainable and inclusive economic growth in Panama. (World Bank)

• The U.S. deported 119 migrants from various nations to Panama, highlighting ongoing tensions over immigration enforcement policies between the two countries. The move comes amid broader geopolitical debates involving Panama’s President Mulino and U.S. statements by Donald Trump, intensifying scrutiny over U.S. border policies and their regional impact. (AP News)

🇵🇾 Paraguay

• Maká people in Paraguay are contesting ownership of an 828-acre territory—Fray Bartolomé de las Casas—originally granted in 1944 as recognition of their valor during the Chaco War, though only a portion has been officially recognized. Faced with government plans to repurpose part of the land for infrastructure, the community remains resolute in reclaiming their sacred space and preserving their ancestral traditions. (Associated Press)

• Seven Paraguayan localities, including Asunción, set new historical high temperature records amid an intense heatwave, with the capital reaching 39.6°C and surpassing records from 1969. The extreme temperatures, which also exceeded 40°C in some areas, have led the National Meteorology and Hydrology Directorate to issue alerts as the heat is expected to persist for several more days. (Infobae)

🇵🇪 Peru

• Movistar Perú has initiated a financial restructuring under Peru’s Procedimiento Concursal Ordinario to settle liabilities while ensuring uninterrupted telecom services for over 13 million customers. Telefónica España will inject 394 million euros to cover immediate obligations, following a 7% revenue decline in 2024 attributed to long-standing fiscal and administrative challenges. (Valora Analitik)

• Peruvian banks are bracing for significant market volatility as the 2025 election campaign nears, with political uncertainty and potential policy shifts raising concerns among investors. Financial institutions are closely monitoring fiscal and regulatory signals that could trigger broader economic turbulence in the run-up to the polls. (Bloomberg)

🇻🇪 Venezuela

• US authorities deported Venezuelan immigrants back to Venezuela after a federal judge blocked their transfer to Guantanamo Bay, derailing a key component of the government’s immigration crackdown. The decision forces officials to pursue alternative removal measures amid ongoing legal challenges and debates over detention policies. This development underscores the persistent tension between immigration enforcement and judicial oversight in the United States. (AP News)

🇺🇸 Miami

• Miami Beach officials have reintroduced strict measures, including curfews and enhanced enforcement, to manage the surge of spring break crowds and reduce public disturbances. The new restrictions, aimed at balancing tourist activity with community safety, have sparked mixed reactions among residents and local businesses. (WLRN)

• Miami International Airport processed about 940 million cut flower stems ahead of Valentine’s Day, handling 90% of the U.S. market’s fresh imports while the remaining 10% enter through Los Angeles. The blooms—including roses, carnations, hydrangeas, and chrysanthemums—mainly come from Colombia and Ecuador and are transported via hundreds of flights by carriers such as Avianca Cargo to meet the seasonal surge in demand. (Voz de America)
  

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Funding

B4A 🇧🇷 raised a $2.5 Million in a Later Stage VC round with funding from 4equity 🇧🇷 to develop an online beauty-tech platform that connects beauty brands with consumers and influencers. The company’s digital tool enables qualified product experimentation, social commerce, and market intelligence, helping digital influencers build careers while driving meaningful engagement in the beauty industry.

Cycles Nutrition 🇧🇷 raised a $2.5 Million in a Seed Round with funding from Headline 🇺🇸 to develop a range of nutritional supplements for health and fitness enthusiasts. The company offers products like pre-workout, whey protein, creatine, and omega-three capsules, enabling users to enhance their performance, recovery, and overall well-being.

NeoFin 🇧🇷 raised a $7 Million Seed round with funding from Upload Ventures 🇧🇷, Quona Capital 🇺🇸, Norte Ventures 🇧🇷, Latitud 🇧🇷, Far Out Ventures 🇺🇸, Canaan Partners 🇺🇸, BFF 🇺🇸, 17Sigma 🇦🇷, and 1616 Ventures 🇧🇷 to transform B2B payments by streamlining accounts receivable and billing. Their platform offers diverse payment methods, lower fees, automated billing, and real-time reconciliation, helping finance teams save time and make smarter decisions.

Acquisition News

• Loggro.com 🇨🇴 acquired Ayenda Hotels 🇨🇴, a hotel chain focused on providing affordable accommodations for budget travelers in Latin America, to expand its footprint in the hospitality sector and enhance its service offerings for small and mid-sized hotel operators.

• Corpay 🇺🇸 acquired Gringo 🇧🇷, a car management app that simplifies buying, selling, financing, and insuring vehicles, to enhance its mobility and financial services portfolio by integrating Gringo’s digital vehicle management solutions.

Startup & VC News

• Venture capital firms are increasing investments in Latin America, focusing on tech startups and innovation. The region is attracting attention due to its growing digital economy and untapped market potential. Key sectors include fintech, e-commerce, and edtech, with Brazil and Mexico leading the way. Investors are optimistic about long-term growth despite economic uncertainties. This trend highlights Latin America’s rising importance in the global tech landscape. (Bloomberg)

Sociopolitical News

🇦🇷 Argentina

• Argentina’s President Javier Milei announces the country will withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), citing sovereignty concerns and opposition to global health mandates. (The Guardian)

• Argentina’s stabilization plan employs a controlled devaluation strategy and monetary tightening to curb inflation and reduce the exchange rate gap. While it has helped stabilize reserves, it has also led to income declines and rising poverty. (Elcano Royal Institute)

• Argentina’s soy and corn harvests for 2025 are expected to face significant challenges due to adverse weather conditions, including drought and heatwaves. Wilted leaves and stressed crops across key farming regions signal a potential reduction in yield, which could impact global supply and prices. Farmers are concerned about the long-term effects of climate change on agricultural productivity. (Reuters)

🇧🇷 Brazil

• Brazil has regained the position of the world’s highest real interest rate at 9.18% after its central bank raised the Selic rate to 13.25% amid persistent inflation and economic uncertainties. The hike reflects efforts to curb inflation, though concerns over public debt sustainability and strong economic indicators contribute to the restrictive monetary policy. Argentina’s recent rate cut to 29% and declining inflation shifted its ranking, positioning Brazil as a potential magnet for foreign investment despite underlying challenges. (BBC News)

• Fuel prices in Brazil are set to increase starting this Saturday, impacting consumers across the country. The rise is attributed to adjustments in international oil prices and changes in tax policies, which have led to higher costs for gasoline and diesel. This increase is expected to affect transportation and overall living expenses. (Agência Brasil)

🇨🇱 Chile

• Chile’s new pension reform aims to overhaul the long-criticized privatized system by introducing a public component designed to guarantee a minimum retirement benefit, while also adjusting contribution rates and benefit calculations. The reform, intended to address persistent inadequacies in retirement incomes, has ignited widespread debate among policymakers and economic experts regarding its long-term fiscal viability. (France24)

• Chile has declared a preventive state of emergency in the Ñuble and Maule regions due to extreme heat and high wildfire risk. Additionally, a curfew has been imposed in several municipalities of La Araucanía to prevent the spread of forest fires, which are suspected to be intentionally set in some cases. (El País)

• Chile is strengthening ties with Brazil and Colombia to combat transnational criminal organizations. Chilean Justice Minister Jaime Gajardo visited both countries to study their high-security prison systems and discuss strategies for preventing criminal activities within prisons. The Chilean government is also finalizing an agreement with Colombia to expedite extradition processes and facilitate the transfer of convicted individuals between the two nations, aiming for ratification by Presidents Gustavo Petro and Gabriel Boric in May. (Infobae)

🇨🇴 Colombia

• Colombia faces significant challenges following President Trump’s decision to freeze USAID funds, as it is the Latin American country most affected by this measure. The suspension jeopardizes over $400 million annually allocated to various sectors, including humanitarian assistance, migration support, and climate policies, impacting both non-governmental organizations and state agencies involved in peace agreement implementations and migrant assistance. (El País)

• During an unprecedented televised Council of Ministers in Colombia, internal tensions within President Gustavo Petro’s government became evident, leading to the resignation of Jorge Rojas, Director of the Administrative Department of the Presidency, just six days after his appointment. The session revealed disagreements over key appointments, particularly that of Armando Benedetti as Chief of Staff, and highlighted broader divisions within the cabinet, prompting calls for collective resignations to facilitate necessary governmental changes. (France24)

• Colombia has established a new maritime trade route connecting its principal Pacific port, Buenaventura, with Shanghai, China, marking a significant strengthening of bilateral relations amid recent diplomatic tensions with the United States. The route, operated by China Ocean Shipping Company (COSCO), includes a stop at Peru’s Chancay port and is expected to enhance trade by facilitating the export of Colombian goods such as petroleum, coal, and minerals to the Chinese market. (DW)

🇨🇷 Costa Rica

• Costa Rica leads Latin America’s energy transition with an almost entirely renewable electricity matrix, achieving the highest residential electrification rate in the region, with 70% of total household energy consumption. The country is recognized for its advancements in regional electrical integration through the Central American Electrical Interconnection System (SIEPAC), leadership in electromobility with the Central American Electrocorredor, and industrial decarbonization initiatives, particularly in the cement sector. (CAF)

• Costa Rica has pledged to enhance cooperation with the United States on migration and narcotics trafficking following U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit. Both nations plan to implement biometric systems to identify individuals and prevent potential threats, with increased collaboration between the DEA, FBI, and Costa Rican security forces. (Semana)

• The United Arab Emirates and Costa Rica have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening economic ties and enhancing trade and investment flows under their Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). During a high-level business forum in Dubai, both nations explored opportunities to deepen collaboration in sectors such as renewable energy, tourism, and technology. (Emirates News Agency)

🇩🇴 Dominican Republic

• The Central Bank of the Dominican Republic (BCRD) is developing a new instant payment platform to facilitate rapid and secure transactions, operating 24/7 with fund transfers completed in under 10 seconds. This initiative aims to enhance financial inclusion, reduce cash usage, and optimize banking costs, aligning with the National Financial Inclusion Strategy (ENIF). (Acento)

🇪🇨 Ecuador

• Ecuador held a presidential election on Sunday, with voters deciding whether to re-elect Daniel Noboa or opt for a change in leadership. The article discusses the current political climate and the factors influencing voters’ decisions in this election. (BBC News Mundo)

• Ecuador closed its borders with Colombia and Peru during its presidential elections to ensure security and control. The measure aimed to prevent disruptions and maintain order during the electoral process. (Portafolio)

🇸🇻 El Salvador

• El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele has submitted a comprehensive anti-corruption bill to the Legislative Assembly, aiming to enhance transparency and integrity among public officials. The proposed legislation mandates annual asset declarations from public servants and their families, introduces stricter penalties for corruption-related offenses, and establishes a National Anti-Corruption Center equipped with advanced technology for real-time monitoring and intelligence gathering. (Diario El Salvador)

🇬🇹 Guatemala

• Guatemala plans to increase public spending to address a spike in migration and economic challenges. The government aims to boost infrastructure and social programs to mitigate the effects of increased migration, which has strained resources. This decision comes as the country faces pressure from the U.S. to manage migration flows more effectively. (Bloomberg)

🇭🇳 Honduras

• A powerful 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck northern Honduras and the Caribbean region. The quake, which was felt across Central America, caused widespread alarm, but initial reports indicated limited structural damage. Authorities issued tsunami warnings for nearby coastal areas, though these were later lifted. (France 24)

🇲🇽 Mexico

• Mexico has deployed troops to its northern border to assist with immigration enforcement and curb the flow of migrants heading to the U.S. The move comes amid increasing pressure from the U.S. to address the surge in migration at the shared border. Mexican officials stated that the deployment aims to enhance security and manage the humanitarian aspects of the situation. (FOX 4 News)

• Mexico’s inflation slowed more than expected in September, reaching its lowest level in over two years. The annual inflation rate dropped to 4.45%, down from 4.64% in August, driven by declines in energy and food prices. This marks the third consecutive month of easing inflation, bringing it closer to the central bank’s target of 3%. (Bloomberg)

🇳🇮 Nicaragua

• The IMF forecasts a slowdown in Nicaragua’s economic growth as remittances decline. Growth is expected to drop to 3% in 2025 from 4% in 2024, driven by reduced external demand and lower remittance inflows. (Reuters)

• Nicaragua has withdrawn from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) following a report highlighting hunger issues in the country. The government criticized the report as biased and politically motivated, leading to its decision to leave the agency. (The Tico Times)

🇵🇦 Panama

• China has protested Panama’s decision to withdraw from the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), expressing disappointment over the move. The withdrawal is seen as a setback for China’s infrastructure and trade ambitions in the region, while Panama aims to reassess its foreign partnerships. (SCMP) (AP News)

🇵🇾 Paraguay

• Paraguay and Argentina agreed to intensify border surveillance to combat smuggling and criminal activities. The collaboration aims to enhance security and curb illegal operations in the shared frontier region. (La Nación)

🇵🇪 Peru

• Peruvian National Police and U.S. Homeland Security Investigations conducted a joint operation to capture members of the Tren de Aragua criminal organization. The operation targeted the group’s activities, which include human trafficking and other transnational crimes. (U.S. Embassy in Peru)

🇻🇪 Venezuela

• The Venezuelan government has condemned the U.S. seizure of its Dassault Falcon 200 aircraft in the Dominican Republic, labeling the action as “brazen theft” and criticizing U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who oversaw the confiscation. The U.S. justified the seizure by citing violations of sanctions, export controls, and money laundering regulations, noting that Venezuelan officials had used the aircraft for international travel to countries including Greece, Turkey, Russia, Nicaragua, and Cuba. (Infobae)

🇺🇸 Miami

• Democrats and Republicans in Miami unite against Trump’s decision to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelans. The move has sparked bipartisan criticism, with local leaders arguing it could destabilize the region and harm Venezuelan refugees. (El País)

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The Dealflow.la Newsletter is Back!

Founded by Trip Gorman, it is the best way to stay informed on Latin American venture funding, the tech ecosystem, and key sociopolitical developments across the region.

The newsletter is now written by Juan Esteban Reyes and edited by Trip Gorman and César Figueredo—bringing you essential updates from every corner of Latin America.

Funding

PayMon 🇪🇨 raised a $600K Pre-Seed round with funding from Pygma 🇺🇸, Magma Partners 🇺🇸, and BuenTrip Ventures 🇪🇨 to build a digital financial platform specifically designed for transforming school cafeterias. It optimizes cafeteria management and payment processes while empowering parents to easily transfer funds and monitor their children’s expenses.

NikoEnergy 🇲🇽 raised a $8M Seed round with funding from QED 🇺🇸, Picus Capital 🇩🇪, Bridge Latam 🇲🇽, and 468 Capital 🇩🇪 to build a solar panel installation service. The company provides a unique solution that enables residential and commercial customers to cut their energy bills and reduce their environmental footprint through zero-investment installations, flexible payment options, and expert system monitoring—all backed by long-term warranties and continuous support.

NeoSpace AI 🇧🇷 raised $18M Early Stage VC round with funding from Itau Unibanco to build a revolutionary financial modal technology platform. The company’s innovative solution harnesses artificial intelligence to transform credit scoring and allocation processes in the finance industry, delivering a comprehensive suite of services that provide users with seamless, secure, and intuitive access to their financial data and transactions while streamlining credit processes and enhancing decision-making.

FinMaq 🇨🇴 raised a $29M Seed round with funding from ALIVE 🇨🇴 (venture round), IrisBank 🇨🇴 (Debt financing round), Accial Capital 🇺🇸 (Debt Financing round), and 30N Ventures 🇨🇱 (Venture round) to build a financial services platform that provides financing for productive assets across the health, construction, and industrial sectors. The platform leverages credit scoring, leasing, and rotating credit to empower businesses to access the capital they need to grow and succeed.

Paytrack 🇧🇷 raised $41M Series B round with funding from Riverwood Capital 🇺🇸 to build a comprehensive online expense management and reimbursement platform for enterprises. The platform streamlines travel and self-booking, urban mobility, advanced card usage, kilometer refunds, automated tax filing, optical character recognition for ID verification, linked expense reports, location-based registration, advance requests, invoice integration, and mileage reimbursements—providing organizations with a complete toolkit that facilitates smoother decision-making by seamlessly integrating customers, managers, and company policies.

BUK 🇨🇱 raised a $50M Series B round with funding from Headline 🇺🇸, Workday Ventures 🇺🇸, Greenoaks 🇺🇸, Endeavor Catalyst 🇺🇸, and Base10 Partners 🇺🇸 to build a comprehensive human resources platform. The software streamlines key HR processes—including payroll management, contract administration, and settlements with an electronic signature—while also offering performance reporting and talent management tools to help companies efficiently manage everything from salary payments and professional development to employee reviews and recruitment.

Acquisition News (New Section)

• Moove 🇧🇷 acquired Kovi 🇧🇷 to bolster its mobility portfolio by integrating innovative transportation solutions in Brazil’s growing market.

• Lovelytics 🇲🇽 acquired Datalytics 🇺🇸 to expand its data analytics capabilities and unlock cross-border market opportunities, signaling a strategic move into the international tech landscape.

• OvareGroup 🇵🇪 acquired Togetherwith 🇨🇷 to broaden its digital service portfolio and enhance collaborative solutions across Latin America.

• Sorenson Communications 🇺🇸 acquired Hand Talk 🇧🇷 to advance its accessibility solutions by integrating cutting‑edge sign language technology for a more inclusive digital communications landscape.

• RED5 🇬🇧 acquired Dale 🇧🇷 to enhance its live sports streaming ecosystem by leveraging Dale’s social platform, which empowers football fans to watch matches with independent commentators and engage in community-driven interactions.

Startup & VC News (New Section)

• Nubank 🇧🇷 announced surpassing 10M customers in Mexico to solidify its position as one of the fastest-growing digital banks in the region, driven by its no-fee digital account, credit card offerings, and aggressive customer acquisition strategies. The milestone, achieved in under five years since entering Mexico in 2019, highlights the country’s shift toward fintech adoption and positions Nubank to compete directly with traditional banks, which still dominate ~80% of the market. The expansion also underscores Mexico’s strategic role in Nubank’s broader LatAm growth plans, complementing its 90M+ customer base in Brazil and recent launches in Colombia. (LatamFintech Hub)

• Latitud 🇧🇷 announced relaunching its Latitud Fellowship Program to bolster early-stage Latin American startups through funding, mentorship, and ecosystem access, addressing the region’s critical gap in pre-seed and seed-stage support. The revamped program offers equity-free grants, tailored workshops, and direct connections to investors and operators, targeting sectors like fintech, SaaS, and climate tech. With ~60% of LatAm startups failing due to limited capital and guidance, this initiative aims to reduce early-stage friction and position Latitud as a catalyst for the next generation of regional tech leaders. The fellowship also strengthens Latitud’s role in bridging Silicon Valley expertise with LatAm’s entrepreneurial talent, amplifying cross-border collaboration. (Contxto)

Sociopolitical News

🇦🇷 Argentina

• Argentina’s Security Ministry introduced Resolution 117/2025 to standardize protocols for handling digital assets in criminal investigations, targeting crypto-related crimes like money laundering and terrorism financing. Recent enforcement actions include seizing $28,600 in stablecoins linked to illegal gambling and freezing 3.5 million USDT tied to a Ponzi scheme, marking the first direct collaboration with Tether in a criminal case (ThePayPers).

• Argentina’s consumer price inflation has moderated recently, sparking cautious optimism among locals that the worst may be behind them, even as high prices and ongoing economic challenges continue to pose risks (Reuters)

🇧🇷 Brazil

• Chinese workers at BYD’s Brazil factory signed contracts with abusive clauses, including passport confiscation, wage remittance to China, and a $900 deposit refundable after six months. These contracts violated labor laws in both countries, leading to investigations and concerns over “slavery-like” conditions. (Reuters)

🇨🇱 Chile

• Chile’s Congress approved a reform to the country’s private pension system, increasing employer contributions, raising the guaranteed minimum pension, and restructuring the Pension Fund Administrators (AFP) system. The reform aims to improve pensions and address inequalities, including gender disparities. (Reuters)

• The European Union and Chile have finalized an Interim Agreement on trade, eliminating tariffs on 99.9% of EU exports to Chile and enhancing access to raw materials and clean fuels. This agreement precedes a broader Advanced Framework Agreement pending ratification. (EEAS)

🇨🇴 Colombia

• The United States resumed deportation flights to Colombia after a diplomatic dispute between Presidents Trump and Petro. Colombia initially refused U.S. military planes carrying deportees, leading to U.S. threats of tariffs. A compromise was reached where Colombia used its own aircraft to repatriate citizens, ensuring dignified treatment. (Al Jazeera)

• Armed groups are terrorizing Colombia’s border with Venezuela, leading to the worst humanitarian crisis in decades. The government has declared a “state of internal commotion” in response. (The Economist)

🇨🇷 Costa Rica

• Costa Rica aims to increase prison sentences for women who undergo abortions, as part of a proposed legal reform. The move has sparked controversy and debate over reproductive rights in the country (France 24).

• Marco Rubio visits Costa Rica to counter China’s growing influence in Latin America. The U.S. senator aims to strengthen regional alliances and promote U.S. interests in the face of China’s expanding economic and political presence (El Tiempo).

🇩🇴 Dominican Republic

• Escalating violence in Haiti has led many expectant Haitian mothers to seek medical care in the Dominican Republic, despite increased deportations by Dominican authorities. The deteriorating healthcare system in Haiti, with less than a quarter of hospitals around Port-au-Prince operational, has forced these women to cross the heavily secured border. However, they face challenges such as lack of citizenship for their children born in the Dominican Republic and the constant threat of deportation. Dominican hospitals continue to provide care, but the influx strains their resources. (Reuters)

🇪🇨 Ecuador

• Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa announced a 27% tariff on Mexican imports to protect local industries and ensure fair treatment for Ecuadorian businesses. This move comes amid strained diplomatic relations following a raid on the Mexican Embassy in Quito last year. (CNN)

• Ecuador and Canada have finalized a new trade agreement after months of negotiations. The deal aims to boost Ecuadorian exports in sectors like flowers, canned tuna, textiles, and auto parts, while also promoting investments and cultural exchanges between the two nations. (Reuters)

🇸🇻 El Salvador

• El Salvador reverses its mining ban amid political and regulatory tensions. The retrial of anti-mining activists and increased state intervention could impact investor confidence in the region (COHA).

• El Salvador revokes Bitcoin’s legal tender status less than four years after its adoption, citing economic instability and low public acceptance. The government plans to focus on strengthening the national currency and financial system (BBC)

🇬🇹 Guatemala

• Guatemala is open to dialogue with the U.S. regarding the acceptance of deported migrants, including those from other Central American countries, but no formal agreement has been reached. The Guatemalan government emphasizes reintegrating its nationals and utilizing their skills in the private sector.(Reuters)

🇭🇳 Honduras

• Honduras warns that Trump’s deportation plan could push it closer to China. Honduran officials say the measures could lead to stronger ties with China (The New York Times).

🇲🇽 Mexico

• Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum is earning acclaim for deftly navigating former U.S. President Donald Trump’s renewed tariff threats, averting a trade war that could have destabilized North American supply chains and investor confidence. Her diplomatic approach has preserved the USMCA trade framework, critical for Mexico’s $500B+ annual exports, while signaling regulatory stability for cross-border industries like manufacturing, energy, and tech—key sectors for VC/PE activity. (Reuters)

🇳🇮 Nicaragua

• Nicaragua’s legislature grants President Daniel Ortega and his wife Rosario Murillo “absolute power” through constitutional amendments, elevating Murillo to “co-president” and extending presidential terms to six years (France 24).

• Nicaragua’s Congress is set to vote on a bill granting the state authority to appoint leadership in private banks and dissolve them by decree. Economists warn this move could distort market functions (Reuters).

• The UN reports a significant deterioration in Nicaragua’s human rights situation over the past year, citing arbitrary arrests, mistreatment of detainees, and attacks on Indigenous people. The crackdown on dissent has intensified, with authorities persecuting not only those expressing dissenting opinions but also any individual or organization operating independently. (UN News).

🇵🇦 Panama

• US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino, warning that if Panama does not curb increasing Chinese influence around the Panama Canal—deemed a breach of US treaty rights—the US may take necessary action, sparking protests amid ongoing tensions over Trump’s canal claims. (The Guardian)

🇵🇾 Paraguay

• Paraguay explores regulated legalization of adult-use cannabis, addressing regulatory shifts, political discourse, and economic potential. (ABC Color).

• Paraguay and Switzerland strengthen bilateral ties, with the Mercosur-EFTA agreement in an advanced state. (IP Gov).

🇵🇪 Peru

• Peru plans to issue $4 billion in bonds this year to fund infrastructure projects and manage debt. The government aims to capitalize on favorable market conditions to secure financing (Yahoo Finance).

• Peru’s inflation rate cooled in January, staying within the central bank’s target range. The decline is attributed to easing food and energy prices, signaling potential stability in the economy (Bloomberg).

🇻🇪 Venezuela

• Trump administration ends Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelan nationals, affecting thousands of immigrants’ legal residency amid ongoing political tensions (The New York Times).

🇺🇸 Miami

• Miami GOP Reps. face a delicate balance supporting Trump’s immigration crackdown while protecting constituents affected by the policies. Trump ended Biden-era parole programs and Temporary Protected Status (TPS) extensions, impacting over 500,000 Venezuelans and others (Miami Herald).

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Funding

Pulpos 🇲🇽 raised a $4 Million Seed round with funding from Newtopia VC 🇦🇷, Latitud 🇧🇷, H20 Capital 🇺🇸, and Andreessen Horowitz 🇺🇸 to build a cloud operating system platform intended to provide cutting-edge technology and financial services for independent retailers to thrive. The company's platform offers user-friendly point-of-sale services and helps in organized inventory management, enabling users to create their online catalog and increase sales.

Fintoc 🇨🇱 raised a $7 Million Series A round with funding from Propel 🇺🇸 and Monashees 🇧🇷 to build an application programming interface designed to integrate with financial institutions. The company's interface allows users to receive payments and make recurring charges from any account. offers tool integration that includes tools for consumer payments, personal finance, KYC, and granting credit, enabling banks to easily connect their customers with a bank account.

Zig 🇧🇷 raised a $22.5 Million Series B round with funding from Across Capital 🇺🇸, Endeavor Catalyst 🇺🇸, and Cloud9 Capital 🇧🇷 to build a digital payment platform designed to facilitate payments for events and nightclubs. The company's platform uses the pay-per-use payment system for secure and fast payment services, enabling customers to get a cashless and secured portal to make payments.

Hurb 🇧🇷 raised a $26 Million Corporate Round with funding from DST Global 🇬🇧 to build an online travel platform intended to find and reserve accommodations and activities. The company's platform allows users to book hotels, and tour packages and share their experiences with other users, enabling travelers to get compact tour packages at reasonable rates.

Habi 🇨🇴 raised a $30 Million Debt Financing round with funding from Victory Park Capital 🇺🇸 and International Finance Corporation 🇺🇸 to build a a technology-driven real estate platform intended to simplify the process of buying and selling residential properties for middle-class consumers. The company's platform reduces sales time, mitigates the risks facing sellers in traditional transactions, and eliminates the need for intermediaries by combining advanced analytical tools with human insight, enabling clients to buy, sell and improve homes quickly and also giving them access to the necessary information.

Aplazo 🇲🇽 raised a $70 Million Series B round with funding from QED Investors 🇺🇸, Volpe Capital 🇧🇷, Picus Capital 🇩🇪, Oak HC/FT 🇺🇸, and Kaszek 🇧🇷 to build a fintech platform intended to unlock financial access, freedom, and opportunity for every Mexican. The company's platform allows users to pay for their purchases online on an installment basis at the affiliated stores, users need to apply online through the website and select delay as a payment method that allows them to pay for their products in a fixed installment payment plan, enabling businesses to increase the customer base by accessing delay marketing channels.

Nu Colombia 🇨🇴 raised a $150 Million Debt Financing round with funding from U.S. International Development Finance Corp 🇺🇸 to increase access to digital financial services in the country. With this loan, Nu will continue working to reach more Colombians and expand its portfolio of products and services. This $150 Million loan reinforces Nu's long-term commitment in Colombia, including $1.3 trillion pesos in capital investments made since 2021.

Sociopolitical News

🇦🇷 Argentina

• Argentina's central bank cut its benchmark interest rate to 40% from 50% as the annual inflation rate slightly decreased, cresting just shy of 300% despite continued economic challenges under President Javier Milei's austerity measures. (Reuters)

• Argentina's monthly inflation slowed for the fourth consecutive month in April, reaching 8.8% month-over-month, while annual inflation rose to 289.4%. Utilities, communication, and clothing led price increases.(Bloomberg)

• President Javier Milei outlined plans to dollarize Argentina’s economy by paying down the central bank’s liabilities and allowing free currency competition. The peso and US dollar will both become legal tender, with the peso on a flexible exchange rate. (Bloomberg)

• Argentina's economic activity dropped 8.4% in March year-on-year, the steepest decline since 2020, driven by President Javier Milei's austerity measures. Construction and manufacturing sectors experienced significant declines. (Reuters)

🇧🇷 Brazil

• Brazil's government is combating severe flooding in Rio Grande do Sul state and widespread disinformation hindering aid efforts. False social media posts undermine trust in authorities, complicating rescue and relief operations. (AP)

• As Brazil faces devastating floods in Rio Grande do Sul, disinformation campaigns targeting President Lula's government hinder aid efforts and spread falsehoods, creating mistrust and complicating recovery. (Al Jazeera)

• Brazil’s Supreme Court overturned “Car Wash” corruption convictions for José Dirceu and Marcelo Odebrecht, citing expired limitations and improper legal procedures, signaling a significant setback for the anti-corruption investigation. (FT)

• Elon Musk and U.S. House Republicans have reinvigorated former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro’s political movement by attacking Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes for censoring right-wing social media accounts. This shift in focus has sparked intense debate in Brazil about free speech and democracy, overshadowing Bolsonaro’s legal challenges and influencing national discourse. (New York Times)

• Brazil's Petrobras CEO Jean Paul Prates stepped down, and former regulator Magda Chambriard will replace him. This change aligns with President Lula's push for lower fuel prices, increased capital spending, and smaller dividends. (Reuters)

🇨🇱 Chile

• Chile declared three days of national mourning after three police officers were killed in an ambush in Arauco province. The attack has revived security concerns amid ongoing tensions with the Mapuche Indigenous community. (Al Jazeera)

• Chile seeks to strengthen security laws and create a new Security Ministry after the murder of three police officers. The government imposed a curfew and deployed the military in response. (Bloomberg)

• Chile's economy grew 1.9% in Q1 2024, the fastest since 2021, driven by increased consumption and mining output. The government raised its 2024 growth forecast to 2.7%, supported by rising copper prices. (Bloomberg)

🇨🇴 Colombia

• Colombian President Gustavo Petro has ordered the opening of an embassy in Ramallah, the West Bank, following the recall of Colombia's ambassador from Tel Aviv and the closure of the embassy there on May 3. (Al Jazeera)

• Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced the country will break diplomatic ties with Israel over its Gaza campaign, despite Colombia's military reliance on Israeli-built equipment like Kfir fighter jets and Galil rifles, raising concerns about future maintenance and contracts. (AP)

• Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced the military's loss of millions of bullets, grenades, and missiles due to internal corruption, blaming personnel for selling arms to traders. Investigations are ongoing. (BBC)

🇨🇷 Costa Rica

• Costa Rica announced electricity rationing due to its worst drought in five decades, impacting hydroelectric power. The state-run ICE blames El Niño and supply delays, urging residents to reduce consumption. (Reuters)

🇩🇴 Dominican Republic

• Amid Haiti's crisis, the Dominican Republic's election focuses on migrant crackdowns and border wall construction. President Abinader, seeking reelection, pledges stricter immigration measures, affecting many Haitians living in the Dominican Republic. (AP)

🇪🇨 Ecuador

• Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa declared a 60-day state of emergency in five coastal provinces to combat internal armed conflict and organized crime, deploying police and military forces due to rising violence. (Reuters)

• Ecuador sued Mexico at the International Court of Justice over Mexico granting asylum to former Ecuadorian Vice President Jorge Glas. This follows Ecuador's storming of Mexico's embassy to arrest Glas, sparking diplomatic tensions. (Al Jazeera)

🇸🇻 El Salvador

• El Salvador's Congress, controlled by President Nayib Bukele's party, approved changes to facilitate constitutional reforms without waiting for new legislature elections. Critics argue this move consolidates Bukele's power and threatens democracy. (AP)

🇬🇹 Guatemala

• Guatemalan prosecutors raided Save the Children’s offices, alleging involvement in child trafficking. The aid group denies misconduct, expressing shock and confusion. The raid follows accusations of corruption against the prosecutors themselves. (AP)

🇭🇳 Honduras

• A U.S. judge denied former Honduras President Juan Orlando Hernandez a new trial for drug and firearms offenses. Hernandez's arguments about trial location and tainted testimony were rejected. He faces 40 years in prison. (Reuters/US News)

🇲🇽 Mexico

• Mexico is stopping nearly three times as many migrants at its southern border compared to last year, helping reduce U.S. border crossings. This cooperation reflects improved U.S.-Mexico relations under Biden. (NBC)

• Tens of thousands protested in Mexico City against President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, accusing him of dividing the country. Th supporting opposition candidate Xochitl Galvez ahead of the June 2 presidential election. (VOA)

• A stage collapse at a Citizens' Movement campaign rally in San Pedro Garza Garcia, Mexico, killed nine people and injured dozens due to high winds. Governor Garcia urged residents to stay indoors amid severe weather. (Reuters)

• Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador claimed that violent criminal gangs and drug cartels are “respectful” and mainly kill each other. Critics argue this overlooks the cartels' widespread extortion and violence against civilians. (AP)

• Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico’s presidential frontrunner, navigates following popular outgoing President Lopez Obrador while establishing her own image. She balances loyalty to his programs with her distinct vision, amidst a polarized political climate. (AP)

🇺🇸 Miami

• Miami leaders were outraged after the Biden administration allowed Cuban officials a five-hour tour of TSA facilities at Miami International Airport on Cuban Independence Day, raising significant security and political concerns.(Axios)

🇳🇮 Nicaragua

• Nicaraguan police confirmed they are monitoring Humberto Ortega, President Daniel Ortega's brother, after media reports of police surrounding his home. Humberto criticized his brother's authoritarian administration in a recent interview. (AP)

• Nicaragua has canceled the decade-old Chinese plan to build a controversial canal linking the Atlantic and Pacific, citing environmental risks and displacement concerns. The project faced strong opposition and never commenced. (The Guardian)

🇵🇦 Panama

• José Raúl Mulino, a last-minute stand-in candidate for Panama's presidential election, promises a return to better economic times, benefiting from former President Ricardo Martinelli's support despite Martinelli's ineligibility due to a money laundering conviction. (AP)

🇵🇾 Paraguay

• Paraguay is advancing plans for a $1.5 billion gas pipeline connecting Argentina, Paraguay, and Brazil, competing with a Bolivian bid. This pipeline aims to transport gas from Argentina's Vaca Muerta shale region. (Reuters)

🇵🇪 Peru

• Peru's Health Ministry classified transgender identities as "mental health problems," sparking protests in Lima. Critics argue this contradicts the World Health Organization's guidance and stigmatizes transgender people. (NBC)

🇻🇪 Venezuela

• Texas billionaire Rod Lewis's company, LNG Energy Group, signed a deal with Venezuela's state-owned PDVSA to rehabilitate oil fields, amid U.S. sanctions and political instability regarding Venezuela's upcoming presidential election. (AP)

• Argentina is pressuring Venezuela to allow six opposition aides, seeking refuge in Argentina's Caracas embassy, safe passage out, amid concerns over their safety and Venezuela's political repression. (Reuters)

• Venezuela hires Rothschild & Co. to begin restructuring $154 billion in debt, signaling intent to re-enter global financial markets. This complex process involves resolving defaulted bonds, loans, and legal judgments. (Bloomberg)

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Funding

Foccuz 🇨🇱 raised a $700K Seed round with funding from MGV Capital 🇺🇸, Kuiper 🇲🇽, Invariantes Fund 🇬🇹, and CARABELA 🇲🇽 to build a business management platform intended to provide quality web design and creative development services. The company's platform automates commissions and compensation plans, eliminating errors and friction and providing clear actionable insights, enabling businesses to manage sales teams towards success.

Diio 🇨🇱 raised a $750K Pre-Seed round with funding from Fen Ventures 🇨🇱 to build a new AI-powered sales assistant, offers to sales teams. Using advanced machine learning algorithms, the company’s predicts the likelihood of closing a deal and provides real-time coaching, helping salespeople improve their performance.

Taxo 🇲🇽 raised a $1.2 Million Pre-Seed round with funding from Seedstars 🇨🇭, Newlin, BuenTrip Ventures 🇪🇨, and 500 Startups: Latam 🇲🇽 to build taxation software designed to create a tailored system for accountants. The company's software specializes in offering taxation, tracking, automation, and communication tools, and a client terminal as well as shares tax reports and invoices, and triggers email alerts, enabling accountants to communicate with their colleagues and clients and manage their work.

Lexter.ai 🇧🇷 raised a $3.11 Million Series A round led by Alexia Ventures 🇧🇷, with funding from Scale-Up Ventures 🇧🇷, Grão 🇧🇷, and Canary 🇧🇷 to build a bureaucratic analytical platform designed to interpret and revise contracts smartly. The company's platform uses artificial intelligence that interprets, analyzes, and reviews contracts to bring efficiency and reduce complexity, time and amounts spent in performing repetitive work so that the legal teams can dedicate themselves to more strategic and complex work, enabling clients to reduce the time taken in performing legal work.

Umgrauemeio 🇧🇷 raised a $3.64 Million Venture round with funding from The Yield Lab LATAM 🇦🇷, Rural Ventures 🇧🇷, Indicator Capital 🇧🇷, and Baraúna Venture Capital 🇧🇷 to build a climate tech company intended to make advancements in forest fire prevention and environmental protection. The company provides a centralized platform and a team of experts in various fields, including engineering, data science, forestry, and law, to address environmental challenges, enabling clients to mitigate forest fires and minimize their environmental impact.

GoFlux 🇧🇷 raised a $5.84 Million Series A round led by Capria Ventures 🇺🇸, with funding from The Yield Lab LATAM 🇦🇷, SP Ventures 🇧🇷, Reflect Ventures 🇺🇸, Blue Impact 🇺🇸, and Arrebol Capital 🇨🇴 to ​​build a SAAS marketplace platform designed to connect companies and service providers. The company's platform allows companies to connect to service providers such as carriers and logistics operators and gives transparency to the process of quotation and contracting of transport, enabling shippers, transporters, and suppliers to boost the business.

Koin 🇧🇷 raised a $7.3 Million Debt Financing round led by Banco Itau 🇧🇷 to build a post-pay application designed for the purchase of products online through tickets. The company's application offers security by requiring payment in money only after receiving the product, thereby enabling users to have confidence in online stores and companies to ensure consumer satisfaction.

InstaCarro 🇧🇷 raised a $10.7 Million Venture round led by Fasanara Capital 🇬🇧, with funding from Rise Capital 🇺🇸, J Ventures 🇺🇸, and FJ Labs 🇺🇸 to ​​build an online car-selling marketplace intended to allow individuals to sell their used cars directly to professional traders. The company's marketplace gives the advantage of instantaneous payouts and offers online access to a large stock of previously inspected cars, transparency with detailed photos and reports, and an immediate return guarantee if a purchased car is in different conditions from those reported, enabling consumers to buy a used car at affordable prices with the convenience of online quotes.

Advolve AI 🇧🇷 raised a $14.59 Million Pre-Seed round led by Valor Capital Group 🇺🇸 and Lanx Capital 🇧🇷, with funding from VERVE CAPITAL 🇧🇷, Veredas Partners 🇧🇷, Mira Capital 🇧🇷 to build a marketing platform intended to maximize return on ad spend (ROAS) through data-driven marketing and experimentation. The company offers marketing automation and AI-powered creative generation, enabling clients to scale their performance marketing efforts.

Akad Seguros 🇧🇷 raised a $22.5 Million Series A round led by Valor Capital Group 🇺🇸, with funding from Scale-Up Ventures 🇧🇷, Endeavor Catalyst 🇺🇸, Actyus 🇪🇸, and Across Capital 🇺🇸 to build an insurance company intended to cater to the needs of individuals and businesses. The company specializes in offering a wide range of coverage including cargo, professional liabilities, financial lines and cybersecurity, thereby ensuring its clients cover eventual failures efficiently.

LEASY 🇵🇪 raised a $28 Million Series A round led by Magma Partners 🇺🇸, with funding from Noa Capital 🇬🇧, Entangled Group 🇺🇸, DeBa Ventures 🇱🇺, and CAPEM (Grupo Capital Empresarial) 🇲🇽 to build a car subscription services intended to help customer own their dream car. The company uses its algorithm and trustworthy evaluators to analyze users' profiles and find suitable cars, enabling customers to enter into a contract to own a vehicle.

Sociopolitical News

🇦🇷 Argentina

• Eduardo Costantini, the Argentine real estate mogul behind Consultatio SA, intends to invest $1.5 billion in four new gated community projects across Paraguay, Uruguay, Argentina's Patagonia, and Buenos Aires province. Known for pioneering the gated community concept in Argentina, particularly with the expansive Nordelta project near Buenos Aires, Costantini's ventures also span into Miami, USA, and Uruguay. (Bloomberg)

• In Buenos Aires, police clashed with protesters rallying against President Javier Milei's austerity measures, using water cannons to disperse crowds blocking a major thoroughfare, leading to eight arrests amid escalating anti-government protests. (AP)

• President Javier Milei of Argentina begins a US tour, planning to meet Elon Musk amid seeking financial aid to revamp Argentina's economy, highlighting his efforts to strengthen ties with the US and attract investment. (AP)

• HSBC is selling its Argentina business to Grupo Financiero Galicia for $550m, taking a $1bn loss due to struggles with the country's volatile exchange rate and hyperinflation, marking a strategic pivot to focus on higher-value opportunities elsewhere. (BBC)

• Argentina's central bank reduced its benchmark interest rate to 70% from 80%, signaling government confidence in curbing the country's annual inflation rate of over 275% under President Javier Milei's economic reforms. (Reuters)

🇧🇴 Bolivia

• Bolivia's hunt for gas in Tariquía reserve, under President Luis Arce's government, ignites conflict within communities, as the nation's dependency on fossil fuel exports for leftist agendas faces economic downturns and environmental concerns. (The Guardian)

🇧🇷 Brazil

• The Green Bay Packers will face the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFL's first regular-season game in Brazil, at Corinthians Arena in Sao Paulo, a venue with an informal ban on the color green due to local soccer rivalries. (The Guardian)

• From 2025, US, Canada, and Australia travelers must present bank statements for a Brazilian visa, reflecting stricter entry requirements and a reciprocity principle with visa costs and financial proof mandates. (CNN)

• Brazil's Supreme Court emphasizes all companies, including Elon Musk's X, must adhere to the constitution amid an inquiry into Musk for challenging a court order, underscoring the judiciary's role in safeguarding national institutions and laws. (Reuters)

• Brazil's Supreme Court unanimously ruled that the military lacks constitutional authority to mediate disputes between government branches, countering claims by former President Jair Bolsonaro and his supporters, and reinforcing democracy against the backdrop of potential military interventions. (AP)

• During a visit to Brazil, French President Emmanuel Macron and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva showcased a strong friendship, jokingly compared to a wedding by social media and Macron himself, highlighting the deep affection and cooperation between France and Brazil. (BBC)

• A Brazilian court suspended a $3 million fine against Neymar for constructing an artificial lake at his mansion without an environmental license, ruling the project didn't require special permits, thus avoiding undue financial and legal prejudice. (France 24)

• Elon Musk disclosed that the House has initiated an inquiry into X's (formerly Twitter) operations in Brazil, following Musk's refusal to block Brazilian MPs and journalists as per judicial demands, escalating a conflict over free speech and legal compliance. (The Hill)

🇨🇱 Chile

• Tianqi Lithium's $4 billion investment in Chile's SQM, aimed at securing a significant position in the global lithium market, faces uncertainty as President Gabriel Boric pushes for more state control over lithium resources, potentially diminishing Tianqi's stake and influence in SQM's lucrative lithium segment. (FT)

• Chilean economists anticipate the central bank will decrease the key interest rate by 50 basis points to 6% in May, amidst inflation concerns fueled by an 8% drop in the peso this year. (Bloomberg)

• Chile's President Gabriel Boric recalled the ambassador from Venezuela for discussions following Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil's comments downplaying the criminal group Tren de Aragua, sparking concerns over the dismissal of the gang's serious crimes. (US News)

• German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock highlights trade with Chile, especially in raw materials like copper and lithium, as crucial for reducing Germany's dependence on China and enhancing security through diversification. (Yahoo)

🇨🇴 Colombia

• Colombian police arrested a 73-year-old American, known as "Cannabis Jimmy," for hosting $30 "cannabis tours" in his home, where he educated visitors on marijuana cultivation and offered "free samples," highlighting Colombia's ongoing battle with drug control. (CBS)

• Bogota, Colombia, will implement water rationing due to droughts from El Nino, affecting over 9 million people as reservoir levels drop to their lowest in decades, highlighting urgent conservation needs amidst a global climate crisis. (Reuters)

• Former Colombian President Álvaro Uribe is set to become the first in the country to face trial for procedural fraud and bribery, amid a long-standing witness-tampering scandal linked to right-wing paramilitary groups. (Washington Post)

• Colombia's ELN rebels have called for an urgent meeting to address the "critical state" of peace talks with the government, aiming to revive efforts to end the country’s long-standing conflict. (Reuters)

• Colombia's President Gustavo Petro is negotiating a deal for state-run Ecopetrol SA to develop oil and gas in Venezuela, aiming to enhance bilateral energy cooperation despite recent political tensions between the two countries. (Yahoo)

🇩🇴 Dominican Republic

• Haitians hoping to stock up on supplies are flocking to the border with the Dominican Republic as tensions remain high over continued political instability and gang violence. (CBS)

🇪🇨 Ecuador

• Ecuador, once a tourist haven, now battles with gang violence, leading to the highest murder rate in Latin America. The shift was fueled by the country becoming a global hub for drug trafficking, with gangs like "Cannabis Jimmy's" intensifying the violence through turf wars and contributing to societal fear and governmental challenges. (BBC)

• Mexico has requested the UN to expel Ecuador following a police raid on the Mexican embassy in Quito, where Ecuadorian authorities arrested former Vice-President Jorge Glas, who was seeking asylum. Mexico's President López Obrador demands an apology, reparations, and a pledge against repeat actions, escalating diplomatic tensions over asylum and international law disputes. (The Guardian)

• Former Ecuador Vice President Jorge Glas, recently extracted from the Mexican Embassy, is under hospital observation but expected to return to prison soon amid escalating tensions between Ecuador and Mexico over his asylum and subsequent arrest, highlighting diplomatic and justice system disputes. (Bloomberg)

• Mexico ends diplomatic ties with Ecuador following a police raid on its embassy in Quito to arrest former Vice President Jorge Glas, who was seeking asylum. The extraordinary action has drawn international condemnation and concerns over violations of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. (NBC)

🇬🇹 Guatemala

• Guatemala's President Bernardo Arévalo, during a visit to Washington, stressed the need for U.S. economic investment in Guatemala to address the root causes of migration, rather than relying on aid alone, advocating for job creation to allow Guatemalans the "right to stay." (CBS)

🇲🇽 Mexico

• During President López Obrador's term, Mexico's five wealthiest individuals amassed an additional $79 billion, despite his campaign against economic elites. The strong peso and a lack of significant measures against monopolistic practices contributed to their increased fortunes, challenging AMLO's populist stance and highlighting the gap between rhetoric and economic realities. (Bloomberg)

• Mexico's President López Obrador expressed dissatisfaction with the first presidential debate, criticizing its focus on issues he claims to have resolved, like corruption, and its lack of acknowledgment of his administration's accomplishments. He also noted the debate didn't adequately defend his legacy, indicating tensions within his party and concerns over the portrayal of his government's achievements. (ABC)

• US officials secretly met with Venezuelan representatives in Mexico to discuss democratic reforms and the potential reinstatement of oil sanctions, with US-backed Colombian President Gustavo Petro mediating. The talks aim to navigate electoral conditions amid Venezuela's upcoming presidential election and the barring of opposition candidates, highlighting the complex geopolitical and economic stakes involved. (Bloomberg)

🇺🇸 Miami

• Apple is set to expand its presence in Miami, securing 45,000 square feet of office space in Coral Gables, joining other tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft in enhancing their operations in South Florida, reflecting the region's growing appeal to big businesses and the ultra-wealthy. (Bloomberg)

🇳🇮 Nicaragua

• Nicaragua has petitioned the International Court of Justice to order Germany to cease its military arms exports to Israel and to restart funding for the UNRWA, citing serious risks of genocide in Gaza and alleging Germany's violation of the 1948 Genocide Convention by supplying arms to Israel. (Reuters)

🇵🇪 Peru

• Peru retracted its visa requirement for Mexican tourists, initially a countermeasure to Mexico's visa imposition on Peruvians, due to the tourism sector's concerns, showcasing the complex dynamics of international travel and immigration policies. (Bloomberg)

🇺🇾 Uruguay

• Uruguay's central bank reduced its key interest rate by 50 basis points to 8.5% amidst a significant slowdown in inflation, aligning monetary policy to target mid-range inflation and support economic growth, marking a pivot back to an easing cycle in response to stabilizing consumer prices. (Bloomberg)

🇻🇪 Venezuela

• Tareck El Aissami, Venezuela's former oil minister and a key Maduro ally, has been arrested on corruption charges, along with former economy minister Simón Zerpa and businessman Samark López, accused of embezzling from the state oil company, PdVSA. (BBC)

• A poll suggests 40% of Venezuelans might leave if Maduro wins July's election, highlighting the despair under his rule, with 7.7 million already fled, mainly to Colombia and the U.S. (Miami Herald)

• US senators urge reinstating sanctions on Venezuela, criticizing Maduro's suppression of opposition before the July election, highlighting the barring of candidate Maria Corina Machado. (Bloomberg)

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