What happens if Argentina gets too expensive? What are alternative cities/countries to move to when it's overpriced in Argentina?

[Frosted Flakes]

So, I have been to almost all the South American countries except for Guyana. My absolute faves are Peru, Ecuador (I really like Guayaquil), Bolivia, and maybe Brazil. Ecuador is like, unbelievably gorgeous. Quito and Guayaquil are cool too, but watch out for crime as it can be an issue there.

I went to Guayaquil for work quite a bit before. I'm sorry but that city is a dump! Very very very ugly city. No way in hell I'd live there.
Quito is not as ugly but still NO Buenos Aires. But then again no city is. I doubt I could ever leave Buenos Aires. No city would compare to me.

 

[Cheap Bastard]

I really like Mexico but I agree that it's gotten more expensive. But you can still live there on a budget if you avoid upscale neighborhoods. I've been to Chapala but it's a bit boring for me. Too many ugly Canadians and Americans that don't speak any Spanish even after living there for years. Plus I go to the barber shop and everything is in English! No thanks.

Totally vibing with @Larry on Peru about the food. Mind-blowingly good! But, living there? Hmm, not so sure, especially with Lima being all kinds of crazy. Traffic is crazy and a bit of turmoil there politically. Chile's culture? Nah, not my scene. Uruguay's a bit too sleepy and also it's as expensive as the USA now! And seriously, three flights to get there from many places in the USA? No thanks. I'm all about those easy international connections, and Argentina's a total headache to reach from the West Coast, not to mention crazy expensive on many flights. That's why Colombia's got my attention. Friends just moved there and are living their best lives. Planning to check it out for sure!

 

[Shoemaker]

Great info on permanent residency visa in Mexico @earlyretirement! Thanks for sharing that detailed info.

When it comes to Argentina, the consideration of a suitable alternative to Buenos Aires hinges significantly upon the primary purpose of one's stay in Argentina. None of the suggested alternatives—Lima, Quito, or Medellin—appears to offer a comparable substitute, particularly concerning the distinctive elements that define the appeal of BA. Mexico City may be contemplated as a somewhat intriguing alternative, albeit with a caveat regarding the potential concern of altitude as its altitude is 7,350 feet. (I've never had issues there).

Broader comparisons extend to international metropolises such as Lisbon, Paris, and Barcelona, each presenting its unique set of challenges and advantages. Recent trends among my American friends reveal a notable interest in real estate acquisition in Portugal, a nation that remains relatively affordable and intellectually stimulating, diverging from the economic pressures and right-wing austerity observed in cities like London or Rome.

However, the juxtaposition of Buenos Aires with Asuncion underscores profound dissimilarities. Buenos Aires boasts an extensive cultural infrastructure, encompassing numerous theaters, a diverse array of nightly musical offerings, an extensive culinary landscape, and a vibrant creative class engaged in music, fashion, art, architecture, dance, literature, and film. In contrast, Asuncion is characterized by Mennonite communities and remnants of past fascist influences, with acknowledged pockets of amiable individuals.

San Miguel de Allende emerges as a retirement enclave for aging American expats, albeit lacking the cultural dynamism and intellectual vibrancy found in Buenos Aires. The overarching question remains whether the inclination towards these locales is primarily motivated by economic considerations, prompting a collective migration for affordability.

 

[Bobbie Burgers]

Buenos Aires is home to me. My wife is from here and all her family lives here. A few of her sisters moved to Spain. They have passports from Spain. But no matter how expensive it gets here, we would never leave. I am fortunate enough to have purchased an apartment here many years ago and our expenses are much lower here than I feel they would be anywhere else all things considered.

People bitch about healthcare costs but they are still very reasonable here. I totally disagree with @Larry when he tries to argue that food here is as expensive as the USA. Yes costs are going up but when I go back to the USA for the holidays and we dine out, it costs a small fortune. It is not like that for similar or better quality food in BA. Utilities are very cheap here. Even accounting for the fact they WILL go up, our monthly "nut" is not bad here even if prices go up 100%.

I think the blue dollar will improve in the next few months. "Venezuela" Argentina will NEVER become.

 

[Shoemaker]

Buenos Aires is home to me. My wife is from here and all her family lives here. A few of her sisters moved to Spain. They have passports from Spain. But no matter how expensive it gets here, we would never leave. I am fortunate enough to have purchased an apartment here many years ago and our expenses are much lower here than I feel they would be anywhere else all things considered.

People bitch about healthcare costs but they are still very reasonable here. I totally disagree with @Larry when he tries to argue that food here is as expensive as the USA. Yes costs are going up but when I go back to the USA for the holidays and we dine out, it costs a small fortune. It is not like that for similar or better quality food in BA. Utilities are very cheap here. Even accounting for the fact they WILL go up, our monthly "nut" is not bad here even if prices go up 100%.

I think the blue dollar will improve in the next few months. "Venezuela" Argentina will NEVER become.

Venezuela went through this crazy combo – a country relying way too much on just one thing (hello, oil!) and then BAM, a military coup happened. Look around the world at places living off oil alone, and it's a hot mess – either they're super messed up and broke, like Nigeria, or all strict and dictatorial, like those Arabian countries. Having crazy rich folks in charge doesn't leave much room for democracy, and there's always this ongoing power struggle vibe.

But, hey, lucky for Argentina, we're not swimming in oil like the levels of Venezuela. And it's not easy to refine. So, we're safe from going down that wild road.

 

[Used]

Okay, so picture this: when wealth hangs out in the same exclusive club and inequality becomes the VIP section, it throws a wild party of crime and social chaos. And guess what? Education and healthcare start feeling all left out, making life tough for the regular folks. Social mobility? Yeah, that takes a hit, and skills development is like, "What's that?"

Now, here's the kicker – when the bottom masses aren't feeling the love, they become less awesome employees. That means lower paychecks, less action in the economy dance floor. It's like, less pie for everyone, even the 1% who think they're top chefs.

But hold up! Henry Ford, the OG capitalist, wasn't just throwing cash around out of the goodness of his heart. Nope, he was a savvy dude. He wanted his workers to buy his cool cars, so he paid them well. That's some responsible capitalism right there! Unlike those fake greedy ones messing with the regular folks. Trust me, in the long run, they're just shooting themselves in the foot. Boom!

 

[Esposas]

I don't know costs in the United States so well as I only go one time per year but last time I go in November it was very expensive! People on here that say Argentina is same cost as USA is very wrong. Maybe some small city. I don't know but we go to NYC or Los Angeles or Las Vegas. In Los Angeles just to fill out tank for gas for rental car it was more than $100 USD! Even for go simple meal in Las Vegas we spend a lot of money.

My husband is American and he said people saying Buenos Aires is same as USA prices is crazy. No offense @Larry but my husband say you crazy.

 

[Man on the Moon]

Okay, so picture this: when wealth hangs out in the same exclusive club and inequality becomes the VIP section, it throws a wild party of crime and social chaos. And guess what? Education and healthcare start feeling all left out, making life tough for the regular folks. Social mobility? Yeah, that takes a hit, and skills development is like, "What's that?"

Now, here's the kicker – when the bottom masses aren't feeling the love, they become less awesome employees. That means lower paychecks, less action in the economy dance floor. It's like, less pie for everyone, even the 1% who think they're top chefs.

But hold up! Henry Ford, the OG capitalist, wasn't just throwing cash around out of the goodness of his heart. Nope, he was a savvy dude. He wanted his workers to buy his cool cars, so he paid them well. That's some responsible capitalism right there! Unlike those fake greedy ones messing with the regular folks. Trust me, in the long run, they're just shooting themselves in the foot. Boom!

Indeed, the data on wealth distribution inequality across countries presents a compelling narrative:

1. Namibia: 0.847
2. Zimbabwe: 0.845
3. Denmark: 0.808
4. Switzerland: 0.803
5. United States: 0.801
6. Gabon: 0.784
7. Central African Republic: 0.782

Upon analysis, it prompts an interesting contemplation. According to the metrics, countries like the United States, Denmark, and Switzerland, often heralded as democratic stalwarts, find themselves on this list of significant wealth inequality.

This raises the question: Does high wealth inequality necessarily indicate a state of perpetual power struggle within a democratic framework? It's an intriguing consideration that prompts us to delve deeper into the dynamics at play within these ostensibly democratic nations.

 

[Finance Prof]

Venezuela went through this crazy combo – a country relying way too much on just one thing (hello, oil!) and then BAM, a military coup happened. Look around the world at places living off oil alone, and it's a hot mess – either they're super messed up and broke, like Nigeria, or all strict and dictatorial, like those Arabian countries. Having crazy rich folks in charge doesn't leave much room for democracy, and there's always this ongoing power struggle vibe.

But, hey, lucky for Argentina, we're not swimming in oil like the levels of Venezuela. And it's not easy to refine. So, we're safe from going down that wild road.

Could it be that "Concentrated Wealth" is the avant-garde strategy of relying on a solitary export? Is there a secret allure to putting all economic eggs in one export basket, inviting us to explore the mysteries of dependence on a single product for export? I wonder what intriguing economic insights lie behind this approach

 

[Swowbird]

Could it be that "Concentrated Wealth" is the avant-garde strategy of relying on a solitary export? Is there a secret allure to putting all economic eggs in one export basket, inviting us to explore the mysteries of dependence on a single product for export? I wonder what intriguing economic insights lie behind this approach

No, you have it reverse.

Ah, the delightful dance of economic intricacies in nations reliant on a solo product – usually some blingy diamonds or liquid gold, like oil. The result? Wealth concentration galore, often in the hands of the most cunning or those with the shiniest guns – the military big shots, if you will. Think Saudi Arabia, Congo, Venezuela Nigeria – the usual suspects.

Now, picture a different scene. Instead of a grand economic buffet, you've got this tiny industry, like the last slice of pizza at a party. Snatch it up, and voilà, you're the proud owner of all that cash flow. It's like economic Monopoly – less properties, more temptation.

So, whether it's a resource-rich extravaganza or a small industry jackpot, the game is on, my friends, and the stakes are as high as the tallest tower in a game of Jenga. 💎🍕💰

 

[Trump]

Ah, the grand stage of nations, where each is a player in the cosmic business theater. Picture this: countries as companies, striving for the elusive charm of diversified revenue streams. Yet, there's a twist. Over-reliance on one product line? Now, that's like playing economic Jenga – risky, unstable, and bound for a wobbly downfall. Just ask Saudi Arabia, currently on a quest to spice up its domestic industry and exports because, surprise, relying solely on petroleum exports isn't the genius strategy it once seemed.

Now, let's talk "comparative advantage" – the golden ticket for successful exporting. A country needs to outshine its neighbors in providing value within the market. Think Brazil outsmarting Colombia in the coffee export game. Why? Well, they've got that sweet combo of lower cost (currency magic, anyone?).

Now, take a sip of Starbucks logic. It's not the cheapest, it's not the finest – it's just got that je ne sais quoi that appeals to a specific slice of the market. And higher quality? Enter Argentina and its beef – the crown jewel.

But alas, Argentina's export prowess is a bit of a comedy. Tango, soccer players, and beef – the golden trio. I jest, but it's kind of true. Blame it on the socialists or the lack of profit incentives – take your pick. Beef, for instance, is treated like a birthright. Keep prices down, exports low – seems like a splendid idea, right? Wrong. Colombia, with its no-nonsense coffee export policy, is laughing all the way to the wealthier, healthier country club.

Now, shift your gaze to the US, the capitalist haven where socialism is but a distant echo. A parade of lucrative exports marches on – software, internet wizardry, pharmaceutical wonders, and the cultural fiesta of movies and music. This, my friends, is the export utopia – highly differentiated, high margin, and low on the asset-hogging scale.

But, ah, the tragic tale of falling behind in the export race. Once a country lags, catching up becomes a Herculean task. Argentina, unfortunately, finds itself in this gloomy export labyrinth. No light at the end of the tunnel for at least 50 years, they say. Why? Well, there's no domestic Argentine industry that outshines its neighbors in cost, differentiation, or quality – at least, not of any meaningful size. It's a bit like trying to join a marathon with no running shoes – you're not getting far without the right gear.

 

[Canada Goose]

Ah, the grand stage of nations, where each is a player in the cosmic business theater. Picture this: countries as companies, striving for the elusive charm of diversified revenue streams. Yet, there's a twist. Over-reliance on one product line? Now, that's like playing economic Jenga – risky, unstable, and bound for a wobbly downfall. Just ask Saudi Arabia, currently on a quest to spice up its domestic industry and exports because, surprise, relying solely on petroleum exports isn't the genius strategy it once seemed.

Now, let's talk "comparative advantage" – the golden ticket for successful exporting. A country needs to outshine its neighbors in providing value within the market. Think Brazil outsmarting Colombia in the coffee export game. Why? Well, they've got that sweet combo of lower cost (currency magic, anyone?).

Now, take a sip of Starbucks logic. It's not the cheapest, it's not the finest – it's just got that je ne sais quoi that appeals to a specific slice of the market. And higher quality? Enter Argentina and its beef – the crown jewel.

But alas, Argentina's export prowess is a bit of a comedy. Tango, soccer players, and beef – the golden trio. I jest, but it's kind of true. Blame it on the socialists or the lack of profit incentives – take your pick. Beef, for instance, is treated like a birthright. Keep prices down, exports low – seems like a splendid idea, right? Wrong. Colombia, with its no-nonsense coffee export policy, is laughing all the way to the wealthier, healthier country club.

Now, shift your gaze to the US, the capitalist haven where socialism is but a distant echo. A parade of lucrative exports marches on – software, internet wizardry, pharmaceutical wonders, and the cultural fiesta of movies and music. This, my friends, is the export utopia – highly differentiated, high margin, and low on the asset-hogging scale.

But, ah, the tragic tale of falling behind in the export race. Once a country lags, catching up becomes a Herculean task. Argentina, unfortunately, finds itself in this gloomy export labyrinth. No light at the end of the tunnel for at least 50 years, they say. Why? Well, there's no domestic Argentine industry that outshines its neighbors in cost, differentiation, or quality – at least, not of any meaningful size. It's a bit like trying to join a marathon with no running shoes – you're not getting far without the right gear.

This reminds me of a post I saw on Facebook last week! I saw someone in the USA sharing a picture of their fancy "Argentine shrimp" dinner. The shrimp looked huge and tasty, not like the ones I saw while I was in Buenos Aires 6 weeks no matter where I went. Interestingly enough I read @GlasgowJohn's post about the best fish getting exported OUTSIDE of Argentina and it must be the same thing.

But let's not forget our local shrimp heroes on the Gulf Coast – they've got the shrimp game on lock. I mean, why search far and wide when you've got top-notch shrimp right at home? It's like telling a New Yorker to find pizza anywhere other than in the Big Apple.

Now, hearing about those Argentine shrimp has me craving a shrimp feast. Who's in? 🍤😋

 

[Swowbird]

Oh, the sheer brilliance of Argentina's export strategy – or should I say, lack thereof? We can have a friendly disagreement on just how much "socialism" plays into the mix, but one thing we can surely agree on is that the Argentine government has mastered the art of encouraging exports... not.

In a stunning twist of fate, Argentina manages to export some higher quality, value-added goods – usually in spite of government resistance. I mean, who needs official support when you can thrive on adversity, right?

Take a peek at the $5 billion USD in Autos and Trucks they ship out annually – quite the feat, considering the lackluster encouragement. Argentina, with its notable auto industry, is a standout in South America. But wait, why bother promoting that when you can sell natural resources to foreign companies for mere pennies a ton? Genius move, really.

And let's not forget the potential goldmine in manufacturing. Finished metals? Check. AG equipment? Check. Transformers, motors, kitchenware, and even stainless steel sinks, medical equipment, restaurant equipment, lab fixtures, medical equipment, clothing, shoes, jewelry, raw and finished textiles – the list goes on. It's like a silent revolution of value-added exports, happening under the nose of a government that's probably busy perfecting its "encouraging exports" dance routine.

But hey, why stop there? Argentina could be a powerhouse in medical equipment, ceramics, textiles, and even high-quality food products. Alfajores in Florida, anyone? The possibilities are endless. It's like Argentina's export potential is a treasure chest waiting to be opened – if only the government could find the key.


Among the array of products crafted within our borders, many exhibit a quality surpassing that of their Chinese counterparts. Presently, these goods are part of our export portfolio, yet there exists the untapped potential to elevate them into veritable export powerhouses. This prospect is especially promising for neighboring countries, where logistical considerations, such as freight, play a pivotal role in the economic equation. The strategic augmentation of these offerings could position them as significant players on the international trade stage

 

[Vero]

Oh, the sheer brilliance of Argentina's export strategy – or should I say, lack thereof? We can have a friendly disagreement on just how much "socialism" plays into the mix, but one thing we can surely agree on is that the Argentine government has mastered the art of encouraging exports... not.

In a stunning twist of fate, Argentina manages to export some higher quality, value-added goods – usually in spite of government resistance. I mean, who needs official support when you can thrive on adversity, right?

Take a peek at the $5 billion USD in Autos and Trucks they ship out annually – quite the feat, considering the lackluster encouragement. Argentina, with its notable auto industry, is a standout in South America. But wait, why bother promoting that when you can sell natural resources to foreign companies for mere pennies a ton? Genius move, really.

And let's not forget the potential goldmine in manufacturing. Finished metals? Check. AG equipment? Check. Transformers, motors, kitchenware, and even stainless steel sinks, medical equipment, restaurant equipment, lab fixtures, medical equipment, clothing, shoes, jewelry, raw and finished textiles – the list goes on. It's like a silent revolution of value-added exports, happening under the nose of a government that's probably busy perfecting its "encouraging exports" dance routine.

But hey, why stop there? Argentina could be a powerhouse in medical equipment, ceramics, textiles, and even high-quality food products. Alfajores in Florida, anyone? The possibilities are endless. It's like Argentina's export potential is a treasure chest waiting to be opened – if only the government could find the key.


Among the array of products crafted within our borders, many exhibit a quality surpassing that of their Chinese counterparts. Presently, these goods are part of our export portfolio, yet there exists the untapped potential to elevate them into veritable export powerhouses. This prospect is especially promising for neighboring countries, where logistical considerations, such as freight, play a pivotal role in the economic equation. The strategic augmentation of these offerings could position them as significant players on the international trade stage

Clothes and shoes made in Argentina aren't as budget-friendly as similar ones in the US. And if we talk about handbags, well, they're about twice as expensive here compared to the US. So, while Argentina might be nailing the fashion game, the prices are a bit of a head-scratcher.

 

[Swowbird]

Clothes and shoes made in Argentina aren't as budget-friendly as similar ones in the US. And if we talk about handbags, well, they're about twice as expensive here compared to the US. So, while Argentina might be nailing the fashion game, the prices are a bit of a head-scratcher.

Ah, the perplexing world of pricing – where you can snag a pair of shoes in the US for anything from a humble $12 bucks to a wallet-walloping $1,200+. The real mystery here: which end of the spectrum are we talking about when we say "not price-competitive"?

Now, let's debunk the myth that Argentine shoes can play in the same league as those churned out by a 15,000-person factory in China. Nope, not even in the same ballpark. It's like comparing a cozy local diner to a fast-food mega-chain – different games, different rules.

And let's talk about the good ol' US of A – they don't exactly tango on the same pricing dance floor as China either. But here's the kicker – they're rocking the manufacturing and exporting game like nobody's business.

But hold your horses, because in the quest for the perfect pair, the US falls short. While the Chinese might have their mass-produced pigskin wonders, I'm over here flaunting my handmade gems from South Korea and the production wonders from Agua Patagona. Take that, pigskin posers!

And you know what? Argentina's got a ticket to the global fashion show. I've got designer buddies who are exporting their top-notch creations to Europe and Japan. We're talking quality over quantity, my friend. Argentina may not win the "race to the bottom" against China, but who wants a race to the bottom anyway? Certainly not Germany, Italy, the USA, or Japan.

Now, when the missus wants a handbag, she's not hitting up some generic store. Nope, it's Lopez and other top-notch Argentine makers delivering the goods. Cheaper and better quality than the US equivalents, thank you very much. Sure, they might not out-price the knockoff Gucci or Prada extravaganza at a south Florida flea market, but hey, who wants a knockoff when you can have the real deal?

So, if we're talking apples to apples, Argentine quality and prices are giving the rest a run for their money. And I've got examples for days in more categories than just clothing and shoes. Crockett & Jones shoes in London might cost you several thousand pounds, but Correa's kicking it with equal quality and a price tag that won't make your wallet weep. Argentina – where quality meets affordability in more ways than one.

 

[Vero]

Ah, the perplexing world of pricing – where you can snag a pair of shoes in the US for anything from a humble $12 bucks to a wallet-walloping $1,200+. The real mystery here: which end of the spectrum are we talking about when we say "not price-competitive"?

Now, let's debunk the myth that Argentine shoes can play in the same league as those churned out by a 15,000-person factory in China. Nope, not even in the same ballpark. It's like comparing a cozy local diner to a fast-food mega-chain – different games, different rules.

And let's talk about the good ol' US of A – they don't exactly tango on the same pricing dance floor as China either. But here's the kicker – they're rocking the manufacturing and exporting game like nobody's business.

But hold your horses, because in the quest for the perfect pair, the US falls short. While the Chinese might have their mass-produced pigskin wonders, I'm over here flaunting my handmade gems from South Korea and the production wonders from Agua Patagona. Take that, pigskin posers!

And you know what? Argentina's got a ticket to the global fashion show. I've got designer buddies who are exporting their top-notch creations to Europe and Japan. We're talking quality over quantity, my friend. Argentina may not win the "race to the bottom" against China, but who wants a race to the bottom anyway? Certainly not Germany, Italy, the USA, or Japan.

Now, when the missus wants a handbag, she's not hitting up some generic store. Nope, it's Lopez and other top-notch Argentine makers delivering the goods. Cheaper and better quality than the US equivalents, thank you very much. Sure, they might not out-price the knockoff Gucci or Prada extravaganza at a south Florida flea market, but hey, who wants a knockoff when you can have the real deal?

So, if we're talking apples to apples, Argentine quality and prices are giving the rest a run for their money. And I've got examples for days in more categories than just clothing and shoes. Crockett & Jones shoes in London might cost you several thousand pounds, but Correa's kicking it with equal quality and a price tag that won't make your wallet weep. Argentina – where quality meets affordability in more ways than one.

Respectfully, I must stand firm in defense of my initial post. When evaluating footwear at comparable price points, the discernible discrepancy in quality becomes unmistakable. Allow me to illustrate my point – within the same budgetary constraints (several hundreds of USD), one can acquire Prada shoes, renowned for their craftsmanship and style.

Prada, a brand synonymous with luxury, offers footwear that seamlessly combines elegance with meticulous craftsmanship. The intrinsic value derived from a pair of Prada shoes substantiates the argument that, at equal price levels, the qualitative distinction is self-evident.

In essence, this stance is not an attempt to discredit alternatives but rather a testament to the exceptional standards set by Prada in the realm of high-quality footwear. It underscores the notion that when investing several hundred dollars, the discerning consumer can indeed secure a pair of shoes that not only exudes sophistication but also attests to the enduring legacy of craftsmanship embodied by Prada.

 

[Swowbird]

Respectfully, I must stand firm in defense of my initial post. When evaluating footwear at comparable price points, the discernible discrepancy in quality becomes unmistakable. Allow me to illustrate my point – within the same budgetary constraints (several hundreds of USD), one can acquire Prada shoes, renowned for their craftsmanship and style.

Prada, a brand synonymous with luxury, offers footwear that seamlessly combines elegance with meticulous craftsmanship. The intrinsic value derived from a pair of Prada shoes substantiates the argument that, at equal price levels, the qualitative distinction is self-evident.

In essence, this stance is not an attempt to discredit alternatives but rather a testament to the exceptional standards set by Prada in the realm of high-quality footwear. It underscores the notion that when investing several hundred dollars, the discerning consumer can indeed secure a pair of shoes that not only exudes sophistication but also attests to the enduring legacy of craftsmanship embodied by Prada.

Well, we're in a bit of a comedy tango here, my friend! Let's break it down – Prada mocassins (that's fancy for loafers, y'all) are strutting their stuff at $680 US on sale at Nordstroms. Meanwhile, the Argentine counterparts are waltzing in at a cool third of that price. Cue the price-drop mic!

Now, if you're eyeing those new Prada botas, they're doing the cha-cha at a whopping $1825 USD. And if you're feeling fancy with the patchwork, it's a princely $2700. I've scoured Patagonia's shoe hideouts, even danced the tango in Patio Bullrich, but Palermo's not rolling out the red carpet for $800 USD shoes. That's your average tag for Prada ladies' footwear – high heels meet high prices.

But here's the plot twist – I've donned my detective hat and hit the Argentine wholesale shoe trade shows, sidestepped through suppliers of shoe bling, and shuffled into small shoe workshops. I even know a few folks who cook up shoe designs. The magic of Buenos Aires? Young designers whip up custom shoe dreams by the dozen, while China's stuck measuring success by the container load.

Argentina's got this "culo del mundo" syndrome – the idea that everything here is the underdog. But let me spill the mate – it's not true.

In my 15-year tango with this city, I've hosted more USA pals than a Buenos Aires Airbnb Superhost. They've all waltzed out with one or more pairs of Argentine shoes, singing praises of fair prices, quality kicks, and designs that make heads turn. Me? I've got a closet full of Argentine shoe love, comparing foot-to-foot with the international crew. Prada, though? Nah, they haven't made it to my dance floor.

Remember my San Francisco neighbors running a coffee bar? Every time they jetted back to Buenos Aires, they smuggled in duffle bags of Argentine shoes from a designer buddy. Those shoes pirouetted off the shelves faster than a Tango twist – always sold out.

So here's the punchline – Argentina's already shipping out a tango of goods. From hairbrushes to pasta machines, their old-school quality and family biz finesse are kicking Chinese knockoffs to the Amazon.com curb.

But hold onto your hat, amigo, 'cause Argentina could export even more, cha-cha all the way to job glory, if the government gave it a supportive salsa.

But hey, what do they do instead? Tax soybeans and hope it pays the bills. Classic Argentina – tangoing with trade, and the dance floor's a bit crowded. Cue the facepalm!

 

[Trump]

Certainly, let's delve into the intricacies of export dynamics and their impact on an economy. The nature of exports does play a pivotal role in determining the overall economic benefit a country derives. In the case of Argentina, the export landscape includes significant quantities of automobiles, auto parts, steel, finished metals, and oil.

However, it's essential to scrutinize the nature of these exports. Argentina's role as a hub for the production or distribution of foreign firms, such as Fiat exporting cars to Brazil, may contribute to the national economy, but it falls short of the transformative impact seen with international champions in highly profitable industries. These giants, exemplified by corporations like Microsoft, Disney, Coca Cola, Caterpillar, Johnson & Johnson, and Visa, exert unparalleled influence on the global stage.

International champions possess distinct advantages—low asset bases, high profitability, extensive employment, colossal market capitalizations, favorable borrowing rates, and substantial contributions to national tax revenues. Their enduring dominance in international trade is rooted in formidable comparative advantages that make them formidable competitors.

Unfortunately, Argentina lacks such entities, and the gestation period required for their development spans decades. This absence of internationally dominant players in lucrative industries is why I express skepticism about Argentina's immediate prospects in this realm. Building and nurturing entities of such caliber demand sustained efforts, strategic planning, and a conducive economic environment.

In essence, the optimism for Argentina hinges on the emergence of these economic behemoths with global competitiveness and sustained export prowess. At present, the landscape appears to lack the transformative forces needed to position Argentina as a heavyweight in the international export arena.

 

[Swowbird]

Oh, the magical creation of "international champions" – I'm all ears for that enchanting tale. Perhaps we could summon them with a sprinkle of fairy dust or a wave of a political wand. But, alas, reality beckons, and creating global juggernauts isn't as simple as a flick of the wrist.

So, let's humor the idea of encouraging smaller companies to grow. Picture this: Argentina, the land of aspiring unicorns, where small enterprises blossom into profitable giants. Maybe not the next Apple, but hey, how about a thriving industry in high-value music software and hardware, à la Sweden? It's the startup dream – low-cost, steadily profitable, and not requiring astronomical investments.

Macri has gracefully spent over $52+ Billion. People can say what they want about Peronistas but everyone has a hand to blame including Macri. He left a looming shortage of billions of dollars to settle existing debts, and now you are seeing Milei try to use his magician's hat to conjure up some magic. Lots of blame to go around!

But fear not, for exports ride gallantly on a white steed to rescue the damsel in fiscal distress. Every additional dollar from exports, whether Fiat's on-paper profit or an Argentine-owned family factory's masterpiece, is a knight in shining armor. These exports, not unlike a quirky family-owned pipe manufacturer, are the unsung heroes, battling in the light industrial arena, from safety glass to espresso machines.

Sure, they might not be the elusive unicorn or the grand Samsung, but these small increments, these realistic endeavors, are the true protagonists in the tale of economic rejuvenation. The government's role? A benevolent guide, nurturing these ventures to grow, to prosper, and, who knows, maybe even soar to new heights.

And as we navigate the challenges, let's not rely on taxing soy exports or wish for a unicorn. Instead, let's embark on the journey of cultivating and expanding those $20 to $100 million a year industries – the unsung heroes that might just be the key to our fairy tale ending.

 

[JonJLA]

If the banter wanders into the realm of life's unbearable dance with financial crises, and the debate takes an unexpected twist:

Wives buying expenses purses from Lopez and expensive Prada shoes and custom-made British Crockett & Jones shoes from London then we might have a pretty darn good idea who the first victims of this financial and economic mess will be. Can we get this thread back on topic please?