Banks are competing to fund infrastructure investment
On the move: Colombia has embarked upon a $24bn infrastructure programmeHindered by years of armed conflict and governmental infighting, Colombia has launched a long-awaited infrastructure development programme, set to pump $24bn into its ailing transport network and, in turn, stimulate healthy competition among its banks as they bid to provide funding. Writer John Rumsey
Bond boom fires up Latin America
Gerdau steel plant in Brazil: issued a $1.25bn investment grade bond in NovemberWith bank lending drying up last year, many Latin American corporates turned to the bond market to strengthen their cash positions. The resulting boom has instilled a sense of confidence in the region, with firms in Brazil, Mexico and Colombia leading the way. Writer Jason Mitchell
On the brink
Good neighbours: Colombian president Alvaro Uribe (left) shakes hands with Peruvian president Alan GarciaWhile the Western world has been struggling through the global financial crisis, Latin America has shown a remarkable resilience to the upheaval. Two countries in particular - Colombia and Peru - are showing particularly impressive growth, and look set to become important emerging economies. Writer Jason Mitchell
Optimism soars in the Andes
Cesar Prado, Colombia’s financial regulator, Superintendencia Financiera
Stable government is creating an atmosphere of confidence in Colombia. Now it needs its free trade agreement with the US ratified. Writer Jane Monahan.
