Economy

These may be tough times for the Egyptian economy, but healthy long-term fundamentals and sound monetary policy bode well for the future. Indeed, the decision by Egypt’s central bank to keep rates on hold is a clear sign of its policy of prioritising growth in 2012.

A smooth transition from former President John Atta Mills, who unexpectedly passed away last month, to new President John Dramani Mahama will help reassure investors about the continued steady performance of the country’s economy, but mild pressure from short-term risks may necessitate some adept changes to monetary and fiscal policy.

The government has unveiled an ambitious draft of its 2013 budget, which it says will reduce the state deficit while still shifting spending to support growth – a tricky balance at the best of times.

Desde que Panamá obtuvo el control del Canal de Panamá, antes ejercido por los Estados Unidos, en 1999, la economía del país ha experimentado uno de los más rápidos crecimientos en Latinoamérica. El gobierno actual del presidente Ricardo Martinelli propuso recientemente un programa económico y social muy ambicioso, compuesto de una serie de inversiones en infraestructura, en especial una expansión de su famoso canal con un costo de $5.250 millones.