Canning Papers

Renewable energy is on the rise in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). there is a palpable surge of excitement, interest – and investment – in a range of renewable technologies including wind, solar and biodiesel, complementing the already-important role being played by hydroelectric energy. While the region remains dependent on fossil fuel-based energy such as oil, gas and coal, various indicators suggest that a tipping point towards a more accelerated take-up of renewables may not be far off. Significantly, the region may be on the verge of an ‘electricity revolution’ that will have far-reaching implications and effects, both creative and disruptive. In this paper, we spell out the possible shape and implications of such a revolution. to start, we map out the current regional energy landscape and then identify some of the trends that foreshadow the dynamic role that renewables can play in the coming ‘Energy revolution’.

Historians will argue over Fidel Castro’s economic legacy for many years to come, and an objective assessment is not possible in this brief paper. So here we limit the discussion to a broad survey of the nature of the economy that Fidel Castro left behind, outlining some of its strengths and weaknesses.

This paper examines the current state of play in Venezuela, starting with an overview of the economy, the political situation and current societal issues, with the input of freelance analyst Kate Parker and Francisco Toro of Caracas Chronicles. It then examines potential scenarios and their implications for the economy and the business operating environment. A near-term improvement in the internal situation is not considered likely. The authors anticipate authoritarian consolidation this year, ahead of a heavily-managed presidential election in late 2018, and little change in economic policy. Absent reform, the economy will remain in a critical condition, but with oil prices sufficiently stable to avert a complete collapse.

This year’s Latin American elections kick off in January with what many in Haiti will be hoping is the end of a drawn out process which began in 2015, in the form of the poll for the final eight senate seats. The electoral process as a whole has been marked by allegations of fraud. While the prevailing attitude now is largely one of pragmatism – the runners-up in the presidential poll have chosen not to challenge the result – with the PHTK’s control of the senate in the balance there is scope yet for further upset.

According to Alicia Bárcena, Executive Secretary of the United Nations’ Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC):
“Latin America must move towards an investment pattern that favours innovation and structural change, while also allowing for economic growth.”

Given the potential for innovation to promote inclusive economic growth, this paper argues that Private Equity (PE) funds should be at the forefront of investment in innovation in Latin America and The Caribbean.

In a referendum on 23 June 2016, British voters gave a clear response to a simple question: ‘Should the United Kingdom remain a member of the European Union or leave the European Union?’ By 51.9% to 48.1% they voted ‘no’ – i.e. to leave. The vote led to short-term financial turbulence, political upheaval, a change of prime minister and a cabinet reshuffle. The new government, now led by Theresa May (of the Conservative Party), is committed to delivering the peoples’ will for ‘Brexit’ (British exit), but securing the terms of departure will be a complicated process.