Brought to you by Finance Colombia and hosted by Loren Moss, the only English language podcast focused on business & investment news in Latin America's 3rd largest economy.
Colombia is undergoing its most dramatic political and security realignment in modern history. Following a historic inauguration outside the capital, President Abelardo de la Espriella has immediately dismantled the "Total Peace" initiative, deployed Urban Security Blocs, and unlocked a massive $1 billion security alliance with the United States under the "Shield of the Americas" framework. In this comprehensive 41-minute briefing, we analyze the complete macroeconomic, political, and security reality of the new administration.
From the fracturing of the traditional right to the math behind the Medellín voting margin that decided the presidency, we look past the headlines to map out exactly what this means for business leaders, investors, and nearshoring strategy.
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SOURCES
US State Dept: https://www.state.gov/releases/office-of-the-spokesperson/2026/08/a-new-era-in-u-s-colombia-relations
ColombiaOne: https://colombiaone.com/2026/08/08/us-colombia-assitance-package/
MercoPress: https://en.mercopress.com/2026/08/08/de-la-espriella-sworn-in-before-congress-in-cali-delivers-first-speech-to-the-military
ColombiaOne: https://colombiaone.com/2026/08/05/symbolism-cali-de-la-espriellas-inauguration-descentralization-political-gesture/
ColombiaOne: https://colombiaone.com/2026/07/23/colombia-de-la-espriella-wants-barranquilla-to-become-alternate-capital/
Breitbart: https://www.breitbart.com/latin-america/2026/08/06/bus-full-of-bombs-intercepted-hours-before-abelardo-de-la-espriellas-inauguration/
CBS: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/bombing-police-station-colombia-injuries-presidential-inauguration/
El Tiempo: https://www.eltiempo.com/colombia/otras-ciudades/trienio-de-petro-deja-mas-de-40-mil-muertos-y-supera-mismo-periodo-de-gobiernos-duque-y-santos-u-externado-3515321
ColombiaOne: https://colombiaone.com/2025/11/05/colombia-illegal-armed-groups-grow/
Bogotá Post: https://thebogotapost.com/what-paloma-valencias-loss-signals-about-the-future-of-uribismo-in-colombia/56566/
Infobae: https://www.infobae.com/colombia/2026/01/26/maria-fernanda-cabal-renuncio-al-centro-democratico-junto-con-su-esposo-jose-felix-lafaurie-no-queremos-continuar/
Infobae: https://www.infobae.com/colombia/2026/08/08/maria-fernanda-cabal-confirmo-solicitud-de-escision-del-centro-democratico-es-cuestion-de-identidad/
El Tiempo: https://www.eltiempo.com/politica/elecciones-colombia-2026/como-votaron-bogota-medellin-y-otras-ciudades-en-colombia-asi-les-fue-a-abelardo-de-la-espriella-e-ivan-cepeda-en-la-segunda-vuelta-presidencial-3566040
Colombia Reports: https://colombiareports.com/colombias-peace-and-human-rights-offices-to-close-de-la-espriella/
LatAm Journalism Review: https://latamjournalismreview.org/news/organizations-warn-of-colombian-presidential-frontrunners-pattern-of-attacks-against-the-press/
Yahoo/AFP: https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/colombias-medellin-builds-mega-prison-160944149.html
Chicanoticias: https://www.chicanoticias.com/2026/08/08/bukele-abelardo-megacarceles/ PHOTO CREDITS
Abelardo de la Espriella — CC0/Wikimedia
Milenioscuro — CC BY-SA 3.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0
CLACSOtv — CC BY 3.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0
Quirinale.it — Attribution/Wikimedia
Casa Rosada — CC BY 2.5 AR: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.5/ar/deed.en
Presidencia de Ecuador — CC0/Wikimedia
KOGL Type 1 — http://www.kogl.or.kr/info/licenseType1.do
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A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake has devastated western Colombia, leaving hundreds dead, more than 1,300 injured, and widespread destruction across Chocó, Valle del Cauca, the Coffee Axis, and beyond. Let's look at what happened, why the earthquake was felt across Colombia and neighboring countries, the ongoing rescue operation, and whether its connection to the heightened activity at Volcán Puracé is real—or a misconception. This is a developing story, and casualty figures may continue to change. If you’re in an affected area, share what you’re seeing on the ground.
Donation Links One Inversión Social: https://secure.givelively.org/donate/foundation-caring-for-colombia-ltd/one-inversion-social Fundación Banco Arquidiocesano de Alimentos de Medellín: bancodealimentos.co (for monetary donations go to www.presentes.co/dona/) Fundación Saciar: saciar.org.co
SOURCES & CITATIONS
Finance Colombia Article: https://www.financecolombia.com/colombia-declares-national-disaster-after-magnitude-7-4-earthquake-kills-at-least-111/ Noticias Caracol — “Presidente Abelardo de la Espriella confirma 111 muertos y 87 heridos por terremoto en Colombia” https://www.noticiascaracol.com/colombia/presidente-abelardo-de-la-espriella-confirma-que-van-111-muertos-por-terremoto-en-colombia-rg10 USGS Event Feed: https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/feed/v1.0/detail/us6000tjl2.geojson El Colombiano — “Volcán Puracé: qué significa la alerta naranja y por qué fue declarada la calamidad pública”: https://www.elcolombiano.com/colombia/por-que-hay-alerta-naranja-volcan-purace-emergencia-KJ39569131 UNGRD — official Colombian disaster-response agency: https://www.gestiondelriesgo.gov.co/ Hydroelectric power in Colombia — Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydroelectric_power_in_Colombia World Map: Strebe, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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AI is transforming customer service, but are companies making things worse instead of better? After attending the CX Summit in Cartagena, I share why so many brands are rushing to replace people with AI, and why that strategy could end up driving customers away. From frustrating chatbots to Colombia's biggest service providers, here's what businesses keep getting wrong—and what great customer experience actually looks like. Do you think AI has improved customer service, or made it more frustrating? Let me know in the comments. #bpro #cxsummit #colombia
Watch the video version here: https://youtu.be/3lVvrmR45ys
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Colombia's election shocked observers both inside and outside the country. What does Abelardo de la Espriella's victory mean for Colombia's economy, foreign policy, security, and political future? Here's what may be coming for the country in the years ahead.
Watch the video version here: https://youtu.be/-5Z4hJ7qAuY
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Sources & Further Reading (all articles at financecolombia.com) What Abelardo de la Espriella's Win With -1% Margin Means for Colombians & Investors (Jun 2026) Beyond the Political Clash: What the Suspension of Transition Meetings Means (Jul 2026) Many Colombians Rejected the Political Status Quo (Jun 2026) After a Polarized Vote: A Fragmented Congress (Jun 2026) What Scares Me (& What I Like) About the Two Candidates (Jun 2026) Three Front-Runners Draw Divergent Maps for Foreign Capital & Security (May 2026) Editorial: Petro's “Total Peace” Has Led to Total Chaos (Mar 2026) Colombia & Ecuador Escalate Trade Tensions: Tariffs Raised to 100% (Apr 2026) Gunfire on the Putumayo River Revives Colombia–Peru Tensions (Apr 2026) Petro Ignites Diplomatic Dispute With Peru Over Amazon Island (Aug 2025) How Rosario, Colombia's Oldest University, Keeps Making an Impact (2016)
Read more at Finance Colombia: https://www.financecolombia.com/ Subscribe to Finance Colombia for free: https://www.fcsubscribe.com/ Read more at Cognitive Business News: https://cognitivebusiness.news/ The place for bilingual talent! https://empleobilingue.com/ More about Loren Moss: https://lorenmoss.com/write Contact us: https://unidodigital.media/contact-unido-digital-llc/
What makes a workplace truly great? At CX Summit 2026, researcher of workplace trends and author Lisa X Walden explains why the future of work is becoming more human-centered, why Gen Z is reshaping employee expectations, and how small leadership changes—or "micro moves"—can dramatically improve company culture. From work-life harmony to creating workplaces that don't suck, this conversation explores why happier employees aren't just better off, they may actually help businesses perform better. #lisaxwalden #cxsummit #bpro
Find Lisa X Walden: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisaxwalden/
Check out her book: https://www.goodcompanyconsulting.com/book
Good Company Consulting: https://www.goodcompanyconsulting.com/
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Colombia has chosen a new direction. In a historic election, voters handed Abelardo de la Espriella a victory and delivered a clear rebuke to Petrismo and the political forces that have dominated the country in recent years. But what drove this result, and what's next? In this analysis, we break down the key issues that shaped the vote, from security concerns and economic uncertainty to voter frustration with the status quo. More importantly, we examine what de la Espriella's victory could mean for Colombia's future, the challenges awaiting his administration, and whether this election marks a temporary shift or the beginning of a new political era.
Watch the video version here: https://youtu.be/oA_4jtcIe-8
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Iván Cepeda presents himself as a champion of peace, social justice, and human rights, but his critics see a very different picture. In this segment, we examine concerns about his ties to controversial political figures, his approach to guerrilla groups and the failed Total Peace strategy, his economic agenda, and his vision for expanding the role of the state. We also explore questions surrounding investor confidence, healthcare reform, political alliances, and his long-standing ideological commitments, offering a critical look at the risks many Colombians associate with a potential Cepeda presidency.
SOURCES & ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Key La Silla Vacía pieces referenced: - Profile of Iván Cepeda (life, Manuel Cepeda’s assassination, MOVICE, the Uribe case, “truth as a program”) - “La cuota de Cepeda en el fracaso de la paz total” — Cepeda’s share of responsibility in the failure of Total Peace - “Cepeda lleva una década de silencio frente a la opresión del chavismo” — Cepeda’s silence on Chavismo - Reyes’ computers investigation - Profile of Abelardo de la Espriella (Montería, La Salle, Ralito/Fipaz, the client list, the brand, the religious conversion, the tiger campaign) - “El universo empresarial de la Espriella: socios cuestionados, saldos en rojo y bienes raíces” — https://www.lasillavacia.com/silla-nacional/el-universo-empresarial-de-la-espriella-socios-cuestionados-saldos-en-rojo-y-bienes-raices/
Race facts verified (June 2026): - First round (May 31, 2026): De la Espriella ~43.7%, Cepeda ~40.9%; runoff June 21; winner inaugurated August 7. (France 24 https://www.france24.com/en/americas/20260531-colombia-presidential-election-live-follow-the-first-round, AS/COA Poll Tracker: https://www.as-coa.org/articles/poll-tracker-colombias-2026-presidential-election) - Assassination of Sen. Miguel Uribe Turbay (shot June 7, 2025; died Aug 11, 2025); Prosecutor’s Office links the Segunda Marquetalia, though InSight Crime notes thin public evidence. (https://www.financecolombia.com/colombias-prosecutors-go-after-farc-dissidents-segunda-marquetalia-for-presidential-candidate-miguel-uribe-turbay-murder/, https://insightcrime.org/news/colombia-blames-guerrillas-for-killing-senator-but-with-little-evidence/)
IvanCepedaCastro, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Read more at Finance Colombia: https://www.financecolombia.com/ Subscribe to Finance Colombia for free: https://www.fcsubscribe.com/ Read more at Cognitive Business News: https://cognitivebusiness.news/ The place for bilingual talent! https://empleobilingue.com/ More about Loren Moss: https://lorenmoss.com/write Contact us: https://unidodigital.media/contact-unido-digital-llc/
Abelardo de la Espriella presents himself as a tough-on-crime, pro-growth outsider, but his candidacy also raises significant questions. In this segment, we examine concerns about his admiration for strongman politics, his long history as a defense attorney for controversial figures, his opposition to key elements of Colombia’s peace process, and the absence of a governing track record. We also explore criticisms of his approach to press freedom, social policy, and public image, offering a balanced look at the risks and uncertainties surrounding one of Colombia’s most talked-about presidential candidates.
SOURCES & ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Key La Silla Vacía pieces referenced: - Profile of Iván Cepeda (life, Manuel Cepeda’s assassination, MOVICE, the Uribe case, “truth as a program”) - “La cuota de Cepeda en el fracaso de la paz total” — Cepeda’s share of responsibility in the failure of Total Peace - “Cepeda lleva una década de silencio frente a la opresión del chavismo” — Cepeda’s silence on Chavismo - Reyes’ computers investigation - Profile of Abelardo de la Espriella (Montería, La Salle, Ralito/Fipaz, the client list, the brand, the religious conversion, the tiger campaign) - “El universo empresarial de la Espriella: socios cuestionados, saldos en rojo y bienes raíces” — https://www.lasillavacia.com/silla-nacional/el-universo-empresarial-de-la-espriella-socios-cuestionados-saldos-en-rojo-y-bienes-raices/
Race facts verified (June 2026): - First round (May 31, 2026): De la Espriella ~43.7%, Cepeda ~40.9%; runoff June 21; winner inaugurated August 7. (France 24 https://www.france24.com/en/americas/20260531-colombia-presidential-election-live-follow-the-first-round, AS/COA Poll Tracker: https://www.as-coa.org/articles/poll-tracker-colombias-2026-presidential-election) - Assassination of Sen. Miguel Uribe Turbay (shot June 7, 2025; died Aug 11, 2025); Prosecutor’s Office links the Segunda Marquetalia, though InSight Crime notes thin public evidence. (https://www.financecolombia.com/colombias-prosecutors-go-after-farc-dissidents-segunda-marquetalia-for-presidential-candidate-miguel-uribe-turbay-murder/, https://insightcrime.org/news/colombia-blames-guerrillas-for-killing-senator-but-with-little-evidence/)
IvanCepedaCastro, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Read more at Finance Colombia: https://www.financecolombia.com/ Subscribe to Finance Colombia for free: https://www.fcsubscribe.com/ Read more at Cognitive Business News: https://cognitivebusiness.news/ The place for bilingual talent! https://empleobilingue.com/ More about Loren Moss: https://lorenmoss.com/write Contact us: https://unidodigital.media/contact-unido-digital-llc/
Iván Cepeda has built his political career around peace, social justice, and advocacy for victims of Colombia’s armed conflict. In this segment, we examine the strongest arguments in his favor, from his focus on neglected regions and marginalized communities to his commitment to implementing the peace accords, his ideological consistency, and his reputation as a disciplined and experienced political operator. Whether you agree with his vision or not, these are the qualities that make Cepeda a serious contender in Colombia’s 2026 presidential race.
SOURCES & ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Key La Silla Vacía pieces referenced: - Profile of Iván Cepeda (life, Manuel Cepeda’s assassination, MOVICE, the Uribe case, “truth as a program”) - “La cuota de Cepeda en el fracaso de la paz total” — Cepeda’s share of responsibility in the failure of Total Peace - “Cepeda lleva una década de silencio frente a la opresión del chavismo” — Cepeda’s silence on Chavismo - Reyes’ computers investigation - Profile of Abelardo de la Espriella (Montería, La Salle, Ralito/Fipaz, the client list, the brand, the religious conversion, the tiger campaign) - “El universo empresarial de la Espriella: socios cuestionados, saldos en rojo y bienes raíces” — https://www.lasillavacia.com/silla-nacional/el-universo-empresarial-de-la-espriella-socios-cuestionados-saldos-en-rojo-y-bienes-raices/
Race facts verified (June 2026): - First round (May 31, 2026): De la Espriella ~43.7%, Cepeda ~40.9%; runoff June 21; winner inaugurated August 7. (France 24 https://www.france24.com/en/americas/20260531-colombia-presidential-election-live-follow-the-first-round, AS/COA Poll Tracker: https://www.as-coa.org/articles/poll-tracker-colombias-2026-presidential-election) - Assassination of Sen. Miguel Uribe Turbay (shot June 7, 2025; died Aug 11, 2025); Prosecutor’s Office links the Segunda Marquetalia, though InSight Crime notes thin public evidence. (https://www.financecolombia.com/colombias-prosecutors-go-after-farc-dissidents-segunda-marquetalia-for-presidential-candidate-miguel-uribe-turbay-murder/, https://insightcrime.org/news/colombia-blames-guerrillas-for-killing-senator-but-with-little-evidence/)
IvanCepedaCastro, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Read more at Finance Colombia: https://www.financecolombia.com/ Subscribe to Finance Colombia for free: https://www.fcsubscribe.com/ Read more at Cognitive Business News: https://cognitivebusiness.news/ The place for bilingual talent! https://empleobilingue.com/ More about Loren Moss: https://lorenmoss.com/write Contact us: https://unidodigital.media/contact-unido-digital-llc/
Abelardo de la Espriella has built his campaign around security, economic growth, and a stronger relationship with the United States. In this segment, we examine the strongest arguments in his favor—from his tough-on-crime stance and pro-business agenda to his plans for healthcare, homeownership, government reform, and rural connectivity. Whether you support him or not, these are the policies and ideas that make his candidacy appealing to many Colombians ahead of the 2026 election.
SOURCES & ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Key La Silla Vacía pieces referenced: - Profile of Iván Cepeda (life, Manuel Cepeda’s assassination, MOVICE, the Uribe case, “truth as a program”) - “La cuota de Cepeda en el fracaso de la paz total” — Cepeda’s share of responsibility in the failure of Total Peace - “Cepeda lleva una década de silencio frente a la opresión del chavismo” — Cepeda’s silence on Chavismo - Reyes’ computers investigation - Profile of Abelardo de la Espriella (Montería, La Salle, Ralito/Fipaz, the client list, the brand, the religious conversion, the tiger campaign) - “El universo empresarial de la Espriella: socios cuestionados, saldos en rojo y bienes raíces” — https://www.lasillavacia.com/silla-nacional/el-universo-empresarial-de-la-espriella-socios-cuestionados-saldos-en-rojo-y-bienes-raices/
Race facts verified (June 2026): - First round (May 31, 2026): De la Espriella ~43.7%, Cepeda ~40.9%; runoff June 21; winner inaugurated August 7. (France 24 https://www.france24.com/en/americas/20260531-colombia-presidential-election-live-follow-the-first-round, AS/COA Poll Tracker: https://www.as-coa.org/articles/poll-tracker-colombias-2026-presidential-election) - Assassination of Sen. Miguel Uribe Turbay (shot June 7, 2025; died Aug 11, 2025); Prosecutor’s Office links the Segunda Marquetalia, though InSight Crime notes thin public evidence. (https://www.financecolombia.com/colombias-prosecutors-go-after-farc-dissidents-segunda-marquetalia-for-presidential-candidate-miguel-uribe-turbay-murder/, https://insightcrime.org/news/colombia-blames-guerrillas-for-killing-senator-but-with-little-evidence/)
IvanCepedaCastro, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Read more at Finance Colombia: https://www.financecolombia.com/ Subscribe to Finance Colombia for free: https://www.fcsubscribe.com/ Read more at Cognitive Business News: https://cognitivebusiness.news/ The place for bilingual talent! https://empleobilingue.com/ More about Loren Moss: https://lorenmoss.com/write Contact us: https://unidodigital.media/contact-unido-digital-llc/
The son of an assassinated senator, Iván Cepeda has spent much of his public life focused on victims’ rights, historical memory, and Colombia’s long internal conflict. Over four terms in Congress, he became one of the country’s most prominent left-wing politicians and a central figure in some of its most consequential political and legal battles. But as he seeks the presidency, a key question remains: how would a politician whose career has been built in activism and legislation govern the country from the executive branch?
SOURCES & ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Key La Silla Vacía pieces referenced: - Profile of Iván Cepeda (life, Manuel Cepeda’s assassination, MOVICE, the Uribe case, “truth as a program”) - “La cuota de Cepeda en el fracaso de la paz total” — Cepeda’s share of responsibility in the failure of Total Peace - “Cepeda lleva una década de silencio frente a la opresión del chavismo” — Cepeda’s silence on Chavismo - Reyes’ computers investigation - Profile of Abelardo de la Espriella (Montería, La Salle, Ralito/Fipaz, the client list, the brand, the religious conversion, the tiger campaign) - “El universo empresarial de la Espriella: socios cuestionados, saldos en rojo y bienes raíces” — https://www.lasillavacia.com/silla-nacional/el-universo-empresarial-de-la-espriella-socios-cuestionados-saldos-en-rojo-y-bienes-raices/
Race facts verified (June 2026): - First round (May 31, 2026): De la Espriella ~43.7%, Cepeda ~40.9%; runoff June 21; winner inaugurated August 7. (France 24 https://www.france24.com/en/americas/20260531-colombia-presidential-election-live-follow-the-first-round, AS/COA Poll Tracker: https://www.as-coa.org/articles/poll-tracker-colombias-2026-presidential-election) - Assassination of Sen. Miguel Uribe Turbay (shot June 7, 2025; died Aug 11, 2025); Prosecutor’s Office links the Segunda Marquetalia, though InSight Crime notes thin public evidence. (https://www.financecolombia.com/colombias-prosecutors-go-after-farc-dissidents-segunda-marquetalia-for-presidential-candidate-miguel-uribe-turbay-murder/, https://insightcrime.org/news/colombia-blames-guerrillas-for-killing-senator-but-with-little-evidence/)
IvanCepedaCastro, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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A defense lawyer for some of Colombia’s most controversial figures. A millionaire showman who enters rallies with tiger videos, smoke machines, and chants from the crowd. A political outsider who has never held elected office, but is deeply connected to the country’s power networks. Who is Abelardo de la Espriella, and what would Colombia look like under a president who has spent a lifetime turning himself into a brand?
SOURCES & ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Key La Silla Vacía pieces referenced: - Profile of Iván Cepeda (life, Manuel Cepeda’s assassination, MOVICE, the Uribe case, “truth as a program”) - “La cuota de Cepeda en el fracaso de la paz total” — Cepeda’s share of responsibility in the failure of Total Peace - “Cepeda lleva una década de silencio frente a la opresión del chavismo” — Cepeda’s silence on Chavismo - Reyes’ computers investigation - Profile of Abelardo de la Espriella (Montería, La Salle, Ralito/Fipaz, the client list, the brand, the religious conversion, the tiger campaign) - “El universo empresarial de la Espriella: socios cuestionados, saldos en rojo y bienes raíces” — https://www.lasillavacia.com/silla-nacional/el-universo-empresarial-de-la-espriella-socios-cuestionados-saldos-en-rojo-y-bienes-raices/
Race facts verified (June 2026): - First round (May 31, 2026): De la Espriella ~43.7%, Cepeda ~40.9%; runoff June 21; winner inaugurated August 7. (France 24 https://www.france24.com/en/americas/20260531-colombia-presidential-election-live-follow-the-first-round, AS/COA Poll Tracker: https://www.as-coa.org/articles/poll-tracker-colombias-2026-presidential-election) - Assassination of Sen. Miguel Uribe Turbay (shot June 7, 2025; died Aug 11, 2025); Prosecutor’s Office links the Segunda Marquetalia, though InSight Crime notes thin public evidence. (https://www.financecolombia.com/colombias-prosecutors-go-after-farc-dissidents-segunda-marquetalia-for-presidential-candidate-miguel-uribe-turbay-murder/, https://insightcrime.org/news/colombia-blames-guerrillas-for-killing-senator-but-with-little-evidence/)
IvanCepedaCastro, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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As Colombia heads into a historic presidential runoff, let's take apart the two men vying for the country’s highest office: Iván Cepeda and Abelardo de la Espriella. Who are they, where do they come from, and what would a presidency under either candidate actually look like? This episode explores their backgrounds, policy proposals, strengths, controversies, and the questions that continue to follow both campaigns.
Watch the video version here: https://youtu.be/A2HSVrvAGiQ
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SOURCES & ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Key La Silla Vacía pieces referenced: - Profile of Iván Cepeda (life, Manuel Cepeda’s assassination, MOVICE, the Uribe case, “truth as a program”) - “La cuota de Cepeda en el fracaso de la paz total” — Cepeda’s share of responsibility in the failure of Total Peace - “Cepeda lleva una década de silencio frente a la opresión del chavismo” — Cepeda’s silence on Chavismo - Reyes’ computers investigation - Profile of Abelardo de la Espriella (Montería, La Salle, Ralito/Fipaz, the client list, the brand, the religious conversion, the tiger campaign) - “El universo empresarial de la Espriella: socios cuestionados, saldos en rojo y bienes raíces” — https://www.lasillavacia.com/silla-nacional/el-universo-empresarial-de-la-espriella-socios-cuestionados-saldos-en-rojo-y-bienes-raices/ Race facts verified (June 2026): - First round (May 31, 2026): De la Espriella ~43.7%, Cepeda ~40.9%; runoff June 21; winner inaugurated August 7. (France 24 https://www.france24.com/en/americas/20260531-colombia-presidential-election-live-follow-the-first-round, AS/COA Poll Tracker: https://www.as-coa.org/articles/poll-tracker-colombias-2026-presidential-election) - Assassination of Sen. Miguel Uribe Turbay (shot June 7, 2025; died Aug 11, 2025); Prosecutor’s Office links the Segunda Marquetalia, though InSight Crime notes thin public evidence. (https://www.financecolombia.com/colombias-prosecutors-go-after-farc-dissidents-segunda-marquetalia-for-presidential-candidate-miguel-uribe-turbay-murder/, https://insightcrime.org/news/colombia-blames-guerrillas-for-killing-senator-but-with-little-evidence/) IvanCepedaCastro, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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Rupert Stebbings returns to Finance Colombia to discuss a major milestone for ALMA Air: the arrival of the airline's first amphibious Cessna Grand Caravan. After years of planning, regulatory work, and preparation, Colombia's first modern amphibious passenger airline is now on the verge of launching commercial operations.
Check out ALMA Air: flyalma.com/en
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Miami has transformed from a vacation destination into one of the world's most sought-after real estate and investment markets. In this interview, I speak with Alicia Lamadrid Paysse, Executive Vice President of Development Sales at Cervera Real Estate, about the forces driving Miami's growth, the influx of international capital, and why investors from Colombia and around the world continue to view South Florida as a compelling destination.
Alicia explains how Miami's business-friendly environment, lifestyle advantages, and growing global stature have reshaped the city's real estate market. We explore the rise of North Beach, an emerging Miami Beach neighborhood that offers a unique combination of residential quality of life, tourism demand, and long-term investment potential.
We also touch on PALMA Miami Beach Residences, a new 14-story luxury condominium currently under construction. PALMA offers owners the flexibility to enjoy their Miami Beach property while participating in legal short-term rentals when they are away, creating a rare blend of personal use and income-generating potential.
To learn more about PALMA Miami Beach Residences or other South Florida real estate opportunities, visit Cervera Real Estate at: cervera.com
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Colombia has spoken. Political outsider Abelardo de la Espriella won the first round, setting up a runoff against Senator Iván Cepeda. In this video, we break down what the results reveal about the future of Petro’s movement, the decline of traditional Uribismo, regional voting trends, and what the final round could mean for Colombia’s economy, security, and political direction.
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Colombia’s 2026 presidential election has become a three-way ideological battle with massive implications for security, foreign investment, energy, business, and the country’s geopolitical alignment. In this deep-dive analysis, we examine the candidates’ positions on crucial topics, while addressing the controversies other outlets avoid. For investors, business leaders, and anyone trying to understand Colombia’s political future ahead of May 31, this is the full picture.
Watch the video version here: https://youtu.be/ApZjTPZZTAw
SHOW NOTES & CITATIONS
CONDOR Weighted Aggregate (updated May 23, 2026, 6 firms) https://www.condorlatam.com/co/encuestas Invamer (May 13–20, sample 3,800 / 152 municipios) https://www.elcolombiano.com/especiales/elecciones-2026/encuesta-invamer-resultados-mayo-2026-JM36817835 CNC / Cambio https://www.elespectador.com/politica/elecciones-colombia-2026/encuesta-cnc-ivan-cepeda-372-abelardo-de-la-espriella-204-y-paloma-valencia-156-lideran-medicion-noticias-hoy/ Fundación Génesis Crea https://www.infobae.com/colombia/2026/05/22/estos-son-los-escenarios-de-primera-y-segunda-vuelta-presidencial-que-plantea-la-encuesta-de-fundacion-genesis-crea-para-2026/ Guarumo / Ecoanolítica https://www.pulzo.com/elecciones-colombia-2026/nueva-encuesta-presidencial-guarumo-mayo-2026-PP5189468 AS/COA Poll Tracker — Colombia 2026 https://www.as-coa.org/articles/poll-tracker-colombias-2026-presidential-election Colombia’s Presidential Race Marked by Polarization, Divided Right and Absence of Debates — Jadín Samit Vergara, May 18, 2026 https://www.financecolombia.com/colombias-presidential-race-marked-by-polarization-divided-right-and-absence-of-debates/ Colombian Primary Election Picks Iván Cepeda https://www.financecolombia.com/colombian-primary-election-picks-ivan-cepeda-as-presidential-candidate-for-gustavo-petros-party-amid-record-low-turnout-legal-issues/ Colombia Confirms 14 Candidates https://www.financecolombia.com/colombia-confirms-14-candidates-for-2026-presidential-election/ Ecopetrol President Charged Over Campaign Spending Violations https://www.financecolombia.com/ecopetrol-president-ricardo-roa-charged-over-alleged-campaign-spending-violations-in-petros-presidential-campaign/ Who Are the Five Candidates Most Likely to Become Colombia’s Next Vice President? https://www.financecolombia.com/who-are-the-five-candidates-most-likely-to-become-colombias-next-vice-president-after-the-upcoming-elections/ InSight Crime: Colombia’s Total Peace Remains in Pieces https://insightcrime.org/news/gamechangers-2025-colombia-total-peace-in-pieces/ La Silla Vacía: Abelardo donación https://www.lasillavacia.com/silla-nacional/abelardo-ha-donado-mas-de-90-mil-dolares-a-los-republicanos-en-ee-uu/ Corrupción al Día: https://corrupcionaldia.com/lo-que-va-del-extraditado-alex-saab-al-abogado-candidato-abelardo-de-la-espriella/ El Colombiano: Abelardo De la Espriella https://www.elcolombiano.com/colombia/perfil-de-abelardo-de-la-espriella-candidato-presidencia-colombia-GH36646145 El Espectador: https://www.elespectador.com/investigacion/abelardo-de-la-espriella-cerebro-de-su-campana-fue-abogado-de-salvatore-mancuso-y-socio-del-vicecontralor-general/ Infobae: Iván Cepeda y De la Espriella https://www.infobae.com/colombia/2026/05/24/ivan-cepeda-y-de-la-espriella-lideran-la-intencion-de-voto-paloma-valencia-aparece-distante-segun-encuesta-del-centro-nacional-de-consultoria/ Infobae: Nueva encuesta https://www.infobae.com/colombia/2026/05/23/nueva-encuesta-sacude-la-carrera-presidencial-asi-quedarian-los-duelos-entre-paloma-valencia-ivan-cepeda-y-de-la-espriella-en-segunda-vuelta/ PARES: Iván Cepeda y su papá https://www.pares.com.co/la-complicada-relacion-de-ivan-cepeda-y-su-papa/ AS/COA: Colombia’s 2026 Presidential Candidates Link: https://www.as-coa.org/articles/colombias-2026-presidential-candidates-cepeda-de-la-espriella-and-valencia CNN en Español: Quién es Paloma Valencia https://cnnespanol.cnn.com/2026/03/09/colombia/quien-es-paloma-valencia-consulta-derecha-orix El Colombiano: Iván Cepeda https://www.elcolombiano.com/especiales/elecciones-2026/ivan-cepeda-el-hijo-de-la-guerra-fria-LF36885871 Hotel Isla Múcura: https://hotelislamucura.com/ Sergio Fajardo Interview Part 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0hIUIa_jTy8&feature=youtu.be and Part 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KtTdIOZpNzs&feature=youtu.be Subscribe to Finance Colombia for free: https://www.fcsubscribe.com/ Follow me on social media Facebook https://www.facebook.com/financecolombia LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/finance-colombia/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/finance_colombia/
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Travelers love Colombia, but too many get quietly ripped off without even realizing it. Here are the two most common credit-card and ATM scams hitting visitors in Cartagena, Bogotá, and Medellín. From merchants entering inflated amounts to banks slipping in a hidden 7% “currency conversion” fee, here’s what really happens, what I’ve personally dealt with, and how you can protect yourself. Be smart, and don’t fall for these tricks!
Watch the video version here: https://youtu.be/acBQv6320oc
Credit card link https://www.referyourchasecard.com/21f/2WZIKGHZX3
Tourist trap article https://www.financecolombia.com/colombian-police-bust-tourist-trap-in-medellin-dedicated-to-kidnapping-extorting-foreign-visitors/
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Colombia’s president Gustavo Petro promised “Total Peace,” but violence, kidnappings, and territorial expansion by groups like the ELN and FARC dissidents tell a different story. Today, let's look at the data, recent events, and what this means for security, governance, and investor confidence.
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Cited Sources
https://www.economicsandpeace.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Global-Terrorism-Index-2026-Report.pdf
ELN post: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1D85EMo8yA/
Nubia Carolina Córdoba on X: https://x.com/NubiaCarolinaCC
6000 people confined in Chocó: https://www.elcolombiano.com/colombia/ofensiva-eln-mas-de-6-000-personas-confinadas-choco-FC34723622
Drone article: https://www.financecolombia.com/colombia-tightens-rules-for-bringing-drones-into-the-country-over-security-concerns/
Governor Andrés Rendón X Post: https://x.com/AndresJRendonC/status/2035813743104344226?s=20
Attack on the Ambulance: https://x.com/MiOriente/status/2035833899817763163?s=20
Burning people’s motorcycles: https://x.com/MiOriente/status/2035833716497420712?s=20
40663 homicides: https://thecitypaperbogota.com/news/colombia-records-40663-murders-under-petro-surpassing-santos-and-duque/#:~:text=Colombia%20has%20recorded%2040%2C663%20homicides,y%20Seguridad%20of%20Universidad%20Externado.
United Nations: https://www.ohchr.org/en/press-releases/2026/03/colombia-urgent-action-needed-end-widespread-violence-against-human-rights#:~:text=The%20report%20provides%20a%20detailed,human%20rights%20defenders%20were%20killed.
Human rights watch: https://www.hrw.org/world-report/2025/country-chapters/colombia#:~:text=As%20of%20June%2C%20the%20Gulf,%2C%20respectively%2C%20compared%20to%202022.
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The results of Colombia’s latest congressional and presidential primary elections are in, and today I explain what they mean for the country’s political future. I break down how Colombia’s election system actually works (something that can seem confusing at first) and highlight the biggest surprises from Sunday’s vote.
I also look at the broader implications for the 2026 presidential race and for Colombia’s business climate. With the left rallying behind figures like Iván Cepeda Castro, the rise of outsider candidate Abelardo de la Espriella, and Valencia emerging as a major contender, the road ahead could reshape Colombia’s institutions and economic policy. If you’re an investor, executive, or simply someone trying to understand where Colombia may be heading politically and economically, this election offers some important clues.
Watch the video version here: https://youtu.be/CMsY_6OGw78
Reference articles
• https://www.lasillavacia.com/silla-nacional/claves-del-nuevo-senado-2026-2030-gana-el-pacto-y-crece-el-uribismo/
• https://www.eltiempo.com/politica/elecciones-colombia-2026/quien-es-daniel-briceno-el-congresista-mas-votado-en-colombia-en-las-elecciones-del-8-de-marzo-3538620
• https://www.eltiempo.com/politica/elecciones-colombia-2026/hasta-cuando-se-puede-inscribir-la-cedula-para-las-elecciones-presidenciales-del-31-de-mayo-esto-dice-la-registraduria-3538635
• https://voces.com.co/me-disculpan-pero-el-grosero-y-violento-fue-abelardo-de-la-espriella-no-ariel-avila/#:~:text=Abelardo%20de%20la%20Espriella%20es%20una%20groser%C3%ADa,universidad%20no%20exactamente%20te%20vuelve%20culto%20ni
• https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1460245678801986
• https://www.instagram.com/reels/DVoWQWbD8ga/
• https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1230494042621586
• https://www.eltiempo.com/politica/elecciones-colombia-2026/juan-daniel-oviedo-el-gran-fenomeno-politico-y-segundo-mas-votado-en-las-consultas-interpartidistas-3538500
• https://www.elheraldo.co/politica/2025/12/04/quien-es-abelardo-de-la-espriella-el-abogado-convertido-en-alfil-de-la-derecha/
• https://www.pares.com.co/los-nule-alex-saab-y-jorge-visbal-estos-son-algunos-de-los-delincuentes-que-ha-defendido-abelardo-de-la-espriella/
• https://www.elcolombiano.com/colombia/quemados-candidatos-senado-elecciones-legislativas-2026-CD34373652
• https://www.publimetro.co/noticias/2026/03/09/hitler-se-lanzo-al-congreso-este-es-el-candidato-con-el-curioso-nombre-del-dictador-que-comparte-lista-con-polo-polo/
• https://www.elcolombiano.com/colombia/quemados-candidatos-senado-elecciones-legislativas-2026-CD34373652
• https://www.elcolombiano.com/colombia/politica/juan-daniel-oviedo-resultado-gran-consulta-por-colombia-JC34361901
• https://www.elcolombiano.com/colombia/pacto-historico-crece-y-centro-democratico-revive-asi-se-reconfigura-el-senado-OD34377180
• https://www.elcolombiano.com/colombia/politica/juan-daniel-oviedo-resultado-gran-consulta-por-colombia-JC34361901
• https://www.elcolombiano.com/medellin/elecciones-2026-precandidato-daniel-quintero-historial-investigaciones-implicados-PE34123286
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Colombia is currently navigating a perfect storm of fiscal instability, bizarre administrative failures, and explosive international scandals. In this week’s recap, we analyze the US Supreme Court’s massive shift on tariff policy and how it's shaking up Colombian exports. Back home, the economic outlook has darkened as President Petro declares a "fiscal emergency," leaving Colombia with some of the highest interest rates among major global economies.
The tension isn't just financial, it’s physical. We break down the terrifying near-miss at El Dorado Airport involving a Colombian Air Force helicopter and a commercial jet. We also dive into two massive accountability stories: a scathing anti-corruption exposé revealing millions spent on hospitals that don't exist, and the national indignation surrounding the tragic passing of seven-year-old Kevin Arley Acosta Pico amidst a failing healthcare takeover.
If that wasn't enough, we look at the sheer absurdity of ambulance boats delivered to a desert with no water, and the looming legal standoff between Petro and the Council of State over a 23% minimum wage hike. Finally, we cover the dark cloud of the Epstein scandal finally reaching Colombian shores, involving high-level officials and disturbing new allegations.
Watch the video version here: https://youtu.be/PPYZQJLzMNM
References
Interest Rates: https://www.elcolombiano.com/negocios/colombia-paga-tasas-de-interes-mas-caras-tes-ND33744768
Helicopter incident: https://www.elcolombiano.com/colombia/vuelo-latam-despegue-se-cruza-helicoptero-aeropuerto-el-dorado-JB33767178
Green Party callout: https://www.elcolombiano.com/colombia/denuncian-19-hospitales-inconclusos-gobierno-petro-CA33665755
Kevin's passing post: https://x.com/infopresidencia/status/2023584438399926605
Epstein files: https://www.eltiempo.com/datos/una-abuela-empleada-una-nina-de-13-anos-y-las-colombianas-mencionadas-en-los-archivos-epstein-y-las-fotos-ineditas-de-ghislaine-maxwell-en-el-pais-3534128
Colon photo: MerleEllaPatsy, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
LATAM plane photo: Rafael Luiz Canossa, CC BY-SA 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Maicao: Lemedu70, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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With everything happening in the news regarding U.S.-Venezuela relations, I wanted to clear the air on one of the most misunderstood pieces of foreign policy in history: The Monroe Doctrine.
Is the U.S. just a "big bully" in the neighborhood, or has the original intent of James Monroe been lost to time? We’re diving into the 1820s, a time when the U.S. had no real Navy and was actually standing in solidarity with newly independent Latin American nations against European royals.
Watch the video version here: https://youtu.be/XzxiZE4ekH8
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Stepping into the stunning Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino in Santa Marta, Colombia, the final resting place of the man who reshaped an entire continent, we look at who Simón Bolívar really was. Known as "The Liberator," he didn’t just lead the charge for independence across six nations; he ignited a revolutionary spark fueled by Enlightenment ideals and a bold vision for a unified "Gran Colombia."
Beyond the battlefield, we’re unpacking the high-stakes tug-of-war between the charismatic "strongman" government and the rule of law, a rivalry that nearly led to assassination and still vibrates through South American politics today. Join me as we walk through the halls where history was made and discover how these centuries-old debates are just as relevant in 2026 as they were in the 1830s.
Watch the video version here: https://youtu.be/ckudSDCZbS4
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Paloma Valencia is Centro Democrático's pick for Colombia's 2026 presidential race. Let's break down what her stances are, from austerity and security to AI, and how her ideas hold up against Colombia’s political and economic reality.
Watch the video version here! https://youtu.be/UF-zL8-rgKE
References https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_LSD2vwf24
Attributions
Paloma Valencia: Andresx8, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Paloma and Uribe: Andresx8, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Espriella: Paulaicf, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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Read more at Finance Colombia: https://www.financecolombia.com/ Subscribe to Finance Colombia for free: https://www.fcsubscribe.com/ Read more at Cognitive Business News: https://cognitivebusiness.news/ The place for bilingual talent! https://empleobilingue.com/ More about Loren Moss: https://lorenmoss.com/write Contact us: https://unidodigital.media/contact-unido-digital-llc/
In this episode, let's break down who actually benefits and who loses from Maduro’s removal, both inside Venezuela and worldwide. From Colombia’s migration crisis to Guyana’s oil dispute, from Brazil’s border stability to Cuba, China, and Russia’s weakening influence, the global impact is already unfolding.
I also examine the real wild card: the regime Maduro left behind. His inner circle, military leadership, and criminal networks remain in power, creating a dangerous and unpredictable transition. Can Venezuela rebuild institutions that were never truly strong in the first place?
Watch the video version here: https://youtu.be/WIvfknK4g3I
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As we know, U.S. forces have captured Nicolás Maduro and transferred him to U.S. custody. Here, I dive into what happened, the role of the military and criminal networks tied to the regime, and what the immediate implications are for energy logistics, sanctions, and regional stability. What does this mean for Venezuela, Colombia, and the world?
Watch the video version here: https://youtu.be/dczpSwy8_No
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Maduro has been removed, but what comes next for Venezuela?
Watch the video version here: https://youtu.be/3xUSQJH-UEU
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Read more at Finance Colombia: https://www.financecolombia.com/ Subscribe to Finance Colombia for free: https://www.fcsubscribe.com/ Read more at Cognitive Business News: https://cognitivebusiness.news/ The place for bilingual talent! https://empleobilingue.com/ More about Loren Moss: https://lorenmoss.com/write Contact us: https://unidodigital.media/contact-unido-digital-llc/
In Bogotá, the political landscape for the 2026 general elections is beginning to crystallize. The Centro Democrático, the primary opposition party founded by former President Álvaro Uribe Vélez, has officially announced Senator Paloma Valencia as its single presidential candidate. She notably surpassed high-profile colleagues María Fernanda Cabal and Paola Holguín.
While some analysts have viewed this as a surprising pivot, others see it as a calculated move toward the ideological center-right. Today, we analyze what this means for Colombia’s investment climate and how Valencia’s profile differs from the "outsider" candidates currently leading early polls.
Watch the video version here! https://youtu.be/g_O9mQewW3M
Listen on
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/colombia-business-news/id1630614746?uo=4Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2rGvtxx1tj7okxz7oRhhzvAudible: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/06d26789-6533-4c2f-9b88-1ba555f35836iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/98480908Sources and mentionshttps://www.financecolombia.com/in-apparent-desperation-colombian-president-ivan-duque-releases-english-self-interview-whining-about-protests-deflecting-blame/https://www.wradio.com.co/2025/12/15/paloma-valencia-es-la-candidata-oficial-del-centro-democratico-para-elecciones-presidenciales-2026/https://www.swissinfo.ch/spa/senadora-paloma-valencia-es-elegida-candidata-presidencial-del-uribista-centro-democr%C3%A1tico/90643657#:~:text=Valencia%2C%20abogada%20de%2047%20a%C3%B1os,Fernanda%20Cabal%20y%20Paola%20Holgu%C3%ADnhttps://thecitypaperbogota.com/news/hard-left-candidate-ivan-cepeda-leads-poll-for-colombias-2026-election/#:~:text=Cepeda's%20lead%20reflects%20firm%20support,drawing%20backing%20among%20younger%20votershttps://www.swissinfo.ch/spa/senadora-paloma-valencia-es-elegida-candidata-presidencial-del-uribista-centro-democr%C3%A1tico/90643657#:~:text=En%20segundo%20lugar%20se%20situaba,con%20el%208%2C5%20%25https://www.lasillavacia.com/silla-nacional/paloma-la-candidata-con-la-que-el-uribismo-juega-hacia-el-centro/https://www.lasillavacia.com/en-vivo/con-el-46-y-el-17-paloma-gano-las-dos-encuestas-del-uribismo/https://www.eltiempo.com/politica/elecciones-colombia-2026/estos-son-los-movimientos-y-retos-de-las-campanas-politicas-en-la-opinion-publica-de-cara-a-las-elecciones-del-2026-3517280
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Wikipedia Commons photos
Claudia Lopez: Patty Suescún, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Uribe: Jcvelezuribe, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Paloma Valencia: Andresx8, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0,
María Fernanda: ElBarcobasurero, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Abelardo de la Espriella: Paulaicf, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0
Sergio Fajardo: World Economic Forum, CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0
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In this episode of Colombia Business News Recap: During a cabinet meeting, Colombian President Gustavo Petro launched into an unexpected lecture on quantum physics, invoking Einstein, quantum entanglement, relativity, and artificial intelligence. Physics professor or political theater? Tell me what you think.
References: https://x.com/petrogustavo/status/1999481157226795207?s=20
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In today’s Colombia Business News Recap, the Calarcá scandal erupts as revelations show he was released despite ongoing criminal activity; President Gustavo Petro lashes out at Attorney General Luz Adriana Camargo, amid growing tensions over the government’s failing “Total Peace” strategy.
Follow Colombia Business News Recap on Youtube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZMOEQ4sdP_8c20GDngWKanPat_yK2gZ7&si=X7qp9TelBAbAmAvQ
Read more about this at Finance Colombia: https://www.financecolombia.com/supreme-court-elects-luz-adriana-camargo-garzon-as-colombias-new-attorney-general/
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In this week’s Colombia Business News Recap, Gustavo Petro’s tax reform collapses 9 to 4 in committee and he threatens an “economic emergency” after swapping short-term liquidity for long-term debt; Prosecutor Lucy Laborde seeks preventive detention for Nicolás Petro, the president's son, over alleged corrupt contracting in the Atlántico department; Colombia has become a net importer of natural gas after foreign oil majors left and new projects were blocked; leaked files link Petro’s “Total Peace” manager, alias Caracá, to ongoing criminal activity and possible collusion between the state of Bogotá and FARC dissidents; the “Tarimazo” political scandal deepens as jailed crime bosses were temporarily released to appear on stage at a Petro rally, and Senator Isabel Zuleta faces a Supreme Court investigation; Medellín officials tied to Daniel Quintero receive nine-year bans for rigged contracts; and Antioquia governor Andrés Rendón heads to Washington to meet U.S. officials and business groups.
Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/tLjK57oq9f8
Links and mentions
⦁ Gustavo Petro's post on X: https://x.com/petrogustavo/status/1996609704974233634?s=20 ⦁ Petro’s risky public debt strategy is failing: https://www.lasillavacia.com/silla-nacional/la-arriesgada-estrategia-de-deuda-publica-de-petro-esta-fracasando/
⦁ Petro blames Congress, BanRep, and Duque for his public debt failure: https://www.lasillavacia.com/en-vivo/petro-culpa-al-congreso-banrep-y-duque-por-fracaso-en-deuda-publica/
⦁ Prosecutor’s Office requests jail for Nicolás Petro over alleged corruption in Atlántico: https://www.lasillavacia.com/en-vivo/fiscalia-pide-carcel-para-nicolas-petro-por-presunta-corrupcion-en-atlantico/
⦁ How the Nicolás Petro Scandal Has Been Unfolding in Colombia: https://www.financecolombia.com/how-the-nicolas-petro-scandal-has-been-unfolding-in-colombia/
⦁ Gas Crisis: https://x.com/lasillavacia/status/1997040835297235025
⦁ Colombia initiates gas importation: https://www.lasillavacia.com/en-vivo/colombia-inicia-importacion-de-gas/
⦁ The Global Conspiracy Against Hydraulic Fracturing in Colombia: https://www.financecolombia.com/the-global-conspiracy-against-hydraulic-fracturing-is-it-active-in-colombia/
⦁ Nine-year ban for former officials of Quintero: https://www.elcolombiano.com/medellin/procuraduria-confirmo-inhabilidad-natalia-urrego-arias-y-jorge-enrique-lievano-ospina-exfuncionarios-daniel-quintero-GA31575164
⦁ Senator Isabel Zuleta: https://www.elcolombiano.com/medellin/retractacion-isabel-zuleta-federico-gutierrez-medellin-ND30881518
⦁ Why is the government protecting Isabel Zuleta and hiding details of the ‘Tarimazo’ in Medellín?: https://www.elcolombiano.com/colombia/gobierno-petro-no-entregar-informacion-tarimazo-alpujarra-isabel-zuleta-JA31571239
⦁ Accusations Committee opens an investigation against President Petro over Medellín’s 'Tarimazo': https://www.elcolombiano.com/colombia/tarimazo-medellin-abren-investigacion-contra-gustavo-petro-EI30836839
⦁ General Federico Mejía ordered the release of a cocaine trafficker: https://caracol.com.co/2025/11/26/general-federico-mejia-ordeno-liberar-a-traficante-de-cocaina-en-un-helicoptero-del-ejercito/
⦁ Rendon heads to the U.S.: https://www.eltiempo.com/colombia/medellin/andres-julian-rendon-gobernador-de-antioquia-viajara-a-los-estados-unidos-por-invitacion-del-departamento-de-estado-cual-sera-su-agenda-3515517
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In an era of shifting global economic alliances, few countries find themselves more strategically positioned than Colombia. Caught between the massive state-backed investment initiatives of China and the established political and economic influence of the United States, Bogotá’s policy decisions have never held higher stakes for investors, the region, or especially, the country’s own citizens.
At the 2025 Colombia Gold Summit, Finance Colombia Executive Editor Loren Moss spoke with Daniel Giraldo, a Managing Director at FTI Consulting (NYSE: FCN), a global business advisory firm specializing in cross-border investment and corporate finance. Giraldo offered his perspective on the geopolitical chessboard, examining what Colombia’s recent decision to join the Belt and Road Initiative means for its future relationship with its largest long-standing ally, the United States.
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The "premium international dating" (PID) industry, a global business often stereotyped or misunderstood, sits at the intersection of globalization, technology, and shifting cultural norms. It is an industry that raises complex questions about gender, economics, and the very nature of romantic relationships in the 21st century. To understand this complex field, Finance Colombia’s
Executive Editor, Loren Moss, sat down with Dr. Julia Meszaros, Associate Professor of Sociology at East Texas A&M University who has spent over a decade researching the motivations, mechanisms, and outcomes of the PID scene. She is the author of the new book, Economies of Gender: Masculinity, “Mail Order Brides,” and Women's Labor.
In this conversation, Meszaros discusses her research in key markets like Ukraine, the Philippines, and Colombia, detailing the profiles of the men and women who use these services, the regulatory landscape, and how Colombia has become a uniquely popular destination.
Read more at Finance Colombia: https://www.financecolombia.com/ Subscribe to Finance Colombia for free: https://www.fcsubscribe.com/ Read more at Cognitive Business News: https://cognitivebusiness.news/ The place for bilingual talent! https://empleobilingue.com/ More about Loren Moss: https://lorenmoss.com/write Contact us: https://unidodigital.media/contact-unido-digital-llc/
Colombian aviation company Alma Air S.A.S., has recently received a favorable opinion from the Technical Advisory Committee on Aerocommercial Affairs (CTAA) of the nation’s Civil Aviation Authority (Aerocivil), which allows Alma Air to initiate its formal certification process under the air taxi service modality (Similar to FAA Part 135), utilizing both amphibious and land-based versions of the Cessna Grand Caravan C208 aircraft.
Finance Colombia’s executive editor, Loren Moss, sat down for coffee with Rupert Stebbings, the CEO of Alma Air. Stebbings, a longtime contributor to Finance Colombia, brings a wealth of experience to this new venture, including a history in international investment dating back to his time with the Bolsa de Valores de Colombia (BVC) and his role as a former board member of Viva Air. The discussion focused on this significant milestone from Colombia’s civil aviation authority, Aerocivil, the unique operational challenges of floatplanes in Colombia, and the immense market opportunity for connecting remote and developing tourist destinations.
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Sweden has been in the news recently in Colombia. Yes, Ikea has been establishing a presence in Bogotá and Medellín, and the Grupo Familia consumer packaged goods company is now part of Essity, but notably, Colombia has chosen to upgrade its 1970s era tactical fighters with Saab Gripen fighter jets manufactured in Sweden. The price tag has not been announced on the deal, but several years ago, the Colombian government had earmarked $678 million USD equivalent in the national budget for the aircraft acquisition. What many people may be unaware of though, is that the countries have a 150 year bilateral diplomatic history together. The countries' ties go far beyond merely commercial ventures. A 19th century Swede even was appointed governor by the fledgeling government after Colombia gained independence from Spain. Sweden has several cultural, peace-building, civil society, and humanitarian initiatives both in Colombia and throughout the Andean region.
Ambassador Helena Storm made time in her busy schedule to speak with Loren Moss, the executive editor of Finance Colombia, where they discussed the bilateral relationship, Storm's impressions of the country over her time here, and the potential for deepening ties between the two countries.
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While there are now some notable Latin American “Unicorns,” the region has lagged behind others when it comes to developing a venture economy. Then still, within Latin America, Colombia has until recently punched below its weight in attracting venture dollars. This may be changing now, and some intrepid Venture Capital firms are betting on Colombian talent and the country’s technology infrastructure to produce results.
Htwenty Capital is one of those early stage venture firms. During a recent event organized by the City of Medellín’s investment promotion agency, ACI Medellín, Loren Moss, executive editor of Finance Colombia and Cognitive Business News was able to spend some time with the investment fund’s Platform Lead, Jimena Cortés to discuss the unique challenges—and opportunities that Colombia presents when it comes to funding and growing high potential startups.
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Ambassador George Hodgson represents the British Embassy in Bogotá, Colombia which works to strengthen bilateral relations, promote trade and investment, and foster cultural and educational exchange between Great Britain and Colombia. This year marks the 200th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Finance Colombia’s executive editor Loren Moss recently met with Ambassador Hodgson, the United Kingdom’s envoy to Colombia, during a visit to Medellín one sunny November morning, where the city hosted a British pavilion celebrating cultural ties between the two countries. Ambassador Hodgson discussed the historic ties between the UK and Colombia, the evolving business landscape, and opportunities for Colombian students and companies in the UK.
* Read more at Finance Colombia: https://www.financecolombia.com/interview-british-ambassador-george-hodgson-seeks-to-strengthen-business-cultural-ties-between-uk-colombia/
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In this week's Colombia Business News Recap, Collective Mining keeps finding gold, President Gustavo Petro threatens the private sector with "forced investments," General Motors to close its Colombia factory, Alvaro Uribe is formally charged with bribery and witness tampering, Colombia to open 5 more consulates in the US, the US opens work and summer job visas to Colombians, the mammoth UNGRD scandal threatens the Petro administration and congressional allies at the expense of poor indigenous people dying of thirst! Grupo Sura, the insurance giant wants out of Colombia's mandatory health care system called EPS, conflict may arise with Spain and Bolivian indigenous group over the gold in the San José shipwreck 2,000 feet down in the Caribbean. Colombia has finally outlawed bullfighting! Mafia guerilla groups are flourishing and expanding under Petro's "Total Peace" fiasco, and some of these groups are building illegal roads in protected areas of the Amazon, accelerating deforestation.
Links and mentions:
BPRO, Colombia’s BPO Trade Association https://www.bpro.org/
BPRO’s CX Summit in Cartagena https://cxsummit.com.co/
Collective Mining https://www.collectivemining.com/
Collective Mining Expands its Box Target Area with New High-Grade Samples; Drilling Continues https://www.financecolombia.com/collective-mining-expands-its-box-target-area-with-new-high-grade-samples-drilling-continues/
Petro’s forced investment threats (Spanish) https://www.pulzo.com/economia/inversion-forzosa-bancos-propuesta-gustavo-petro-tendria-problemas-PP3613841A
General Motors to close its Colombia factory https://www.financecolombia.com/general-motors-to-cease-auto-manufacturing-in-colombia-ecuador/
Colombia’s Minister of Labor tells GM it can’t fire workers because it is closing its factory (Spanish) https://www.mintrabajo.gov.co/comunicados/2024/mayo/mintrabajo-decreta-medidas-preventivas-o-cautelares-para-las-sociedades-general-motors-colmotores-s.a-zona-franca-industrial-colmotores-s.a.s-y-zoficol-sas
Uribe charged with witness tampering https://apnews.com/article/colombia-alvaro-uribe-charges-witness-tampering-bd11a922142d000db1fcac178a1a147e
Colombia to open new consulates, US opens work visas to Colombians https://www.financecolombia.com/colombia-announces-opening-of-five-new-consulates-in-the-us-amid-bilateral-migration-talks-in-bogota/
UNGRD Scandal https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/colombia-prosecutors-weigh-immunity-ex-officials-government-corruption-case-2024-05-07/
Sura wants out of the EPS health care system https://www.financecolombia.com/breaking-news-sura-seeks-to-leave-colombias-eps-health-system/
Colombiás San José Shipwreck https://www.financecolombia.com/colombia-to-start-recovery-of-san-jose-galleon-shipwreck-treasure-but-many-complications-remain/
Criminal groups expanding under Petro https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/colombias-illegal-armed-groups-grew-2023-secret-security-report-2024-05-07/
Illegal deforestation & road building in Amazon growing while Petro Administration stands by https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/operations-destroy-illegal-roads-colombias-amazon-hit-standstill-sources-say-2024-05-27/
Tracking of illegal road building https://www.maaproject.org/2024/illegal-roads-colombia/
Hacienda Napoles https://haciendanapoles.com/
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In this week’s Colombia Business News Recap:
* Canadian Sacha Lemaire Lepage facing Narcotics, Firearms & Wildlife Abuse Charges In Colombia https://www.financecolombia.com/canadian-sacha-lemaire-lepage-facing-narcotics-firearms-wildlife-abuse-charges-in-colombia/
* Jimmy Carter’s Colombia Blacklist Revealed https://nsarchive.gwu.edu/briefing-book/colombia/2024-04-15/jimmy-carters-colombia-blacklist-revealed
* Colombian Kidnapper Hiding In Chile Captured & Sent to US https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/foreign-national-extradited-chile-united-states-kidnapping-and-assaulting-us-army-soldiers
* WOM is bankrupt
* Ruta-N and SAP Announce Alliance To Support Entrepreneurship and Investment in Medellín https://www.financecolombia.com/ruta-n-and-sap-announce-alliance-to-support-entrepreneurship-and-investment-in-medellin/
* The Feria 2 Ruedas motorcycle convention returns to Medellín May 2-5, bringing commerce, fun & learning opportunities. https://www.feria2ruedas.com/en/visitantes
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In this week’s Colombia Business News Recap for April 13, 2024:
Read more at Finance Colombia https://www.financecolombia.com/
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In this week’s Colombia Business News Recap for April 4, 2024:
* Petro’s health reform buried in the Colombian senate
* Geopark (NYSE: GPRK) launches a stock buyback
* Avianca launches flights to Montreal & Paris, but gets fined for unfair competition
* New Colombian Public Debt ETF launched
* Antioquia’s governor asks for public donations to complete highways
* Improvements in the road connecting Medellín to its international airport
* Economic uncertainty affecting foreign investment
* Corrupt prosecutor sent to jail
* Luis Carlos Sarmiento retires from Grupo Aval (NYSE: AVAL)
* Chickens being sacrificed and their blood spattered over Bogotá’s Metro Construction project. See: https://x.com/andreanimalidad/status/1770142966411317525?s=20
* Medellín is fighting back against perverts like Dominick DiVincenzo and Timothy Alan Livingston
Read more at Finance Colombia https://www.financecolombia.com/
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In this Finance Colombia exclusive, Francisco “Pacho” Santos sits down for an in-depth interview with Loren Moss to discuss current events in Colombia. Santos is the former vice president of Colombia under Alvaro Uribe, and former Ambassador to the United States during the Ivan Duque administration.
Santos is equally outspoken and fluent in English as he is in Spanish, and shares his opinion on:
* Petro’s frustration, improvisation and his stalled reforms
* Colombia’s new Attorney General Luz Adriana Camargo
* Weaknesses in Colombia’s prosecutorial structure
* Gustavo Petro’s “Paz Total” or “Total Peace” initiative
* Santos’ time as a victim of kidnapping and how it shaped his politics
* The state of the Colombia – US bilateral relationship
* The surging cocaine production in Colombia
* A critique of both Biden & Trump
* The failure of US domestic drug policy
* Colombia’s health system & Petro’s proposed health reform
* The governance crisis at Ecopetrol
* The Thomas Greg passport scandal in the foreign ministry
* Fiscal discipline and institutionality in the current administration
* The former Vice President’s future projects
Read more at Finance Colombia https://www.financecolombia.com/
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In The Colombia Business News Recap for March 16 2023:
* Why did the US release one of Colombia’s 10 most wanted criminals after he crossed the border illegally from México into Texas?
* President Gustavo Petro’s frustration is reaching the boiling point as his “revolutions” fail and he calls for a constituent assembly (constitutional convention).
* JetSmart launches domestic operations in Colombia
* Luz Adriana Camargo is the new attorney general
* Federico Gutierrez submits 501 corruption allegations implicating the Daniel Quintero administration to prosecutors and inspector general’s office.
* Ecopetrol is facing a corporate governance crisis.
* Petro has said he wants to end fossil fuels. Does he want to end Ecopetrol?
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Covered in this podcast of Colombia Business News Recap with Loren Moss https://lorenmoss.com/ brought to you by Finance Colombia https://www.financecolombia.com/
* Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro’s Struggle to Name An Attorney General.
* Petro’s improvisational governance causing wide ranging problems for Colombia. · Medellín’s Mayoral Runner Up & Quintero relative kicked out of city council.
* Medellín Mayor “Fico’s” first embarrassment, culture secretary already ousted.
* Public skepticism for Petro’s “Total Peace” initiative shrinks amid increasing violence. https://www.financecolombia.com/hope-is-fading-for-petros-total-peace-after-diaz-kidnapping-and-suspension-of-emc-negotiations/
* Homicides & suspicious deaths involving tourists reaches alarming levels. https://www.financecolombia.com/us-embassy-warns-of-rise-in-violent-crime-in-medellin-via-online-dating-applications/
* Losing the Panam Games is a major embarrassment for Petro Administration & loss for the entire country. https://www.financecolombia.com/colombia-working-to-restore-barranquilla-as-panam-games-host-city-after-rights-were-stripped-for-breach-of-contract/
* Claudia Lopez’s legacy as mayor of Bogotá. https://www.financecolombia.com/bogota-mayor-issues-ultimatum-to-colombian-consortium-building-metro-on-design-delays/
* Petro loses latest round in battle over Bogotá Metro. https://www.financecolombia.com/bogota-metro-faces-more-controversy-as-project-infighting-again-spills-into-the-public-sphere/
* The economy is stalling, reaching only 0.6% growth. https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/colombias-economy-grew-modestly-in-2023-as-rate-cut-calls-grow
* JetSmart launches domestic operations in Colombia. https://www.financecolombia.com/jetsmart-to-start-offering-domestic-routes-within-colombia-on-march-14/
* Avianca changes unaccompanied minor policy. https://www.financecolombia.com/avianca-ends-unaccompanied-minor-service-for-travelers-under-14-years-old/
* Foreign Minister Alvaro Leyva ousted by prosecutors, replaced by Luis Gilberto Murillo. https://www.financecolombia.com/colombian-foreign-affairs-minister-suspended-for-improper-handling-of-passport-printing-bid-process/
* Piedad Córdoba dies, leaving a mixed and controversial legacy. https://www.financecolombia.com/ruminating-on-the-right-and-left-of-colombian-politics-following-the-death-of-piedad-cordoba/
* Collective Mining (TSX.V CNL) increases drilling in Caldas. https://www.financecolombia.com/collective-mining-encounters-strong-porphyry-mineralization-mobilizes-second-rig/
Don't forget! Come meet the team and me at the March 7 AI/ChatGPT Happy Hour at the Marquee Hotel in Medellín. https://www.financecolombia.com/finance-colombia-readers-are-invited-chatgpt-genai-happy-hour-event-march-7-on-medellin/
Disclosure: As I mentioned, I am long on Collective because I am impressed with the operation. Collective is not a sponsor of Finance Colombia or this podcast.
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Colombia Business News Recap: November Post Election Analysis, Rising Insecurity in Colombia
* Electoral recap and analysis: https://www.financecolombia.com/what-jumps-out-musings-about-colombias-local-elections-and-context-regarding-the-rebuke-of-president-petro/
* Hope Is Fading for Petro’s Total Peace After Díaz Kidnapping and Suspension of EMC Negotiations: https://www.financecolombia.com/hope-is-fading-for-petros-total-peace-after-diaz-kidnapping-and-suspension-of-emc-negotiations/
The following citations are in Spanish…
* Daniel Quintero’’s ticket humiliated in Medellin: https://www.elcolombiano.com/medellin/elecciones-2023-candidatos-de-daniel-quintero-resultados-votaciones-HB23006706
Special discount for listeners, viewers and readers to attend the Bonds, Loans & ESG Capital Markets – Latin America & Caribbean event from November 27-28 in Miami at the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne. https://www.financecolombia.com/finance-colombia-is-a-supporting-partner-for-the-largest-corporate-and-investment-banking-event-in-latin-america-and-the-caribbean/
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It’s election season, so lots of political news: No surprise there.
· Daniel Quintero abruptly resigns amidst multiple scandals
· Tecnoglass moves HQ to Miami
· Nasty double assassination in Medellín: Is it political?
· Bribery charges against Alvaro Uribe are revived.
· NY Mayor Eric Adams visits Colombian border with Panamá.
· 6 Colombian assassins assassinated in Ecuador
· Ikea opens in Bogotá with plans for Medellín & Cali
Remember, subscribe to Finance Colombia for free! https://fcsubscribe.com
About your host: https://lorenmoss.com/
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Like Colombia’s own “Hunter Biden” saga, President Gustavo Petro’s son Nicolás has been arrested after his scorned ex-wife accused him of taking over $100,000 USD from a narcotrafficker for his father’s political campaign—and then spending the cash on himself! Justice served…or political witch-hunt?
Also in this week’s Colombia Business News Recap:
* Is Mayor Quintero to blame for this year’s lame Feria de las Flores in Medellín?
* Irene Vélez on her way out as Minister of Energy & Mines after allegedly using her influence to circumvent migration laws for her son.
* President Petro appoints paramilitary mafia don as “peace emissary”
* Colombian highways 5th most dangerous in the world.
* F-AIR international airshow returns to Medellín after pandemic pause.
* Colombia’s women’s soccer team upsets Germany 2-1
* Kudos to Vostock Capital for the 5th Oil & Gas Congress in Bogotá
Notes:
Hoosegow, American slang, comes from Spanish “Juzgado” meaning “having been judged.”
* Nicolás Petro was unfaithful to Day Vásquez with her friend, the actress Laura Ojeda. Petro and Ojeda are now expecting a son together.
* Day was apparently involved with Juan Manuel Cortés, congressman from Santander.
* Yes, the word is “forgiven,” not “forgived!”* Not worth doing the whole thing over…FORGIVE me!
Colombian Air Force Crash, Petro scandal takes weird turn, Uribe acolyte charged with corruption...
It’s been a quiet week in Lake Guatavita as vacation season arrives in Colombia. Laborers receive an extra paycheck mandated by law, and June sees three national holidays during the month, plus one at the beginning of July. Congress is out of session, and many are on vacation. ·
* Colombian Air Force training crash leaves one dead, Lieutenant Colonel Mario Andrés Espinosa Gonzales. An investigation is underway.
* After being cashiered by President Petro, his former campaign manager and Ambassador to Venezuela Armando Benedetti returns to his post, despite the ongoing scandal involving him and former Chief of Staff Laura Sanabria. For background, see this article: https://www.financecolombia.com/fast-moving-colombian-scandal-may-threaten-the-presidency-of-gustavo-petro/
* Colombian prosecutors are charging former campaign aspirant and Alvaro Uribe acolyte Ivan Zuluaga and his son with receiving over $1.6 million USD in illegal campaign money from Odebrecht. The Brazilian Lava Hato scandal continues to ensnare culprits throughout The Americas even years after it launched. For more details see this article: https://www.financecolombia.com/oscar-zuluaga-charged-with-fraud-in-campaign-finance-fallout-from-odebrecht-scandal/ and for background on when the Odebrecht scandal reached the campaign of former President Juan Manuel Santos who defeated Zuluaga, see https://www.financecolombia.com/colombian-president-santos-apologizes-for-odebrecht-campaign-fund/
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This week at Colombia Business News Recap, host Loren Moss takes a deep dig into Colombia’s precious metals mining sector with Paul Harris, the organizer of the Andes region’s most important mining sector events, now expanding to México as well.
The two discuss recent trouble at Zijin Continental Gold’s Buriticá mine and the Petro Administration’s response (or lack thereof). Some positive developments at Collective Mining’s new project near Supía, Caldas, the potential for copper and rare earth metals mining in the country, including Auxico’s new processing facility in Colombia.
The two also discuss other Colombia developments, including Aris Mining’s Marmato project, AngloGold’s copper project, Outcrop Silver & Gold, the political situation at Colombia’s Ministry of Mines & Energy, and a few more developments.
See you at Colombia Gold Summit this November 7-8 in Medellín!
* Finance Colombia: https://www.financecolombia.com/
* Finance Colombia free subscriptions https://fcsubscribe.com
* CGS Events: Colombia, México, Ecuador, newsletter https://cgsorg.com/
* Colombia’s Ministry of Mines & Energy https://www.minenergia.gov.co/en/
* Zijin Continental Gold https://www.continentalgold.com/en/
* Collective Mining LTD (TSX-V: CNL |OTCQX: CNLMF) https://www.collectivemining.com/
* Auxico Resources (CSE: AUAG | OTCQB: AUXIF) https://www.auxicoresources.com/
* Outcrop Silver & Gold (TSX.V: OCG | OTCQX: OCGSF | DB: MRG1) https://outcropsilverandgold.com/
In this week’s episode:
* Gustavo Petro calls for an end to free markets and laments the fall of the Berlin Wall – original video of his speech here. Berlin government information on the Berlin Wall and its victims here.
* Marta Lucia Ramirez implicated in unfolding Italian bribes scandal, while her husband’s firm is involved in a legally imperiled construction project in San Andrés, Colombia. Original article where she went after an investigative journalist for exposing her family ties to accused paramilitary drug trafficker Memo Fantasma can be read here.
* Guerillas make fools of the Colombian government, building roads and acting as the de-facto government, even building roads and operating openly in Tibú, Colombia with no formal government presence or opposition.
* Update on the evolving scandal involving Petro’s former chief of staff and ambassador to Venezuela
* Rumors of a possible resurrection of Ultra Air
Thanks to our sponsors:
Tecnoglass & ES Windows https://www.tecnoglass.com/
Lord Tailors & Custom Clothiers, Medellin (Whatsapp) +57 300 519-0302
Lord Tailors promo music: Winter Winds by Dee Yan-Key
The rapid growth of Barranquilla-based Tecnoglass (NYSE: TGLS) makes the company seem like a high-growth startup, but the Colombian-origin aluminum and glass manufacturer just celebrated its 40th birthday. In Colombia, the company is well known as a socially conscious national champion, but even though over 90% of its products are exported to the United States, the company still has only around 1% of total market share.
With its hurricane resistant and energy efficient high-technology glass products, Tecnoglass and its subsidiary ES Windows dominates the South Florida market but is just now starting to expand in earnest throughout the rest of the United States. Finance Colombia executive editor Loren Moss sat down with Tecnoglass Chief Operating Officer and co-founder (along with his brother José Manuel) Christian Daes to talk about how the company’s solid foundations underpin its high-growth outlook and recent activity.
In this edition:
* Colombia rejoices as four children ages 1-13 years old found alive 39 days after plane crashes into deep jungle.
* President Gustavo Petro’s own Nannygate scandal involving his chief of staff turns deadly as a key witness, a police lieutenant colonel is found dead of an apparent suicide, and violent protests by Petro’s supporters leave another officer responding to riots in a coma.
* Chilean airline JetSmart is moving to fill the Low-Cost Carrier void in Colombia boosted by a new alliance with American Airlines.
* Ecopetrol wins a $1 Billion USD arbitration award against CB&I, vindicating it in the Reficar scandal, but collection of the award is unlikely.
* EmpleoBilingue is now connecting bilingual talent with the employers that need it!
In this edition: · Hidroituango is finally generating (a little bit of) electricity, but only one bidder showed up for Daniel Quintero’s public tender to finish the project. · Peru has lodged a formal protest against Colombia’s President Petro, accusing him of meddling in their affairs. · President Petro has announced plans to purchase 16 new combat jets—after running on a platform opposing new fighters. · Colombia has established its new minimum wage for 2023, a double-digit increase. · A win for Colombian agriculture as mango exports to the United States begins. · A loss for Colombian agriculture as WTO smacks down potato tariffs in favor of EU in trade dispute. · The explosion in Bogotá’s El Dorado International Airport · After running anti-beef campaign, Medellín Mayor Daniel Quintero promises to give away hundreds of free pigs Do your homework! Read these articles: · Hidroituango Hydroelectric Dam Is Finally Producing Electricity https://www.financecolombia.com/hidroituango-hydroelectric-dam-is-finally-producing-electricity/ · “There has always been a suspicion of a possible hiring of a Chinese company for the completion of the work” https://www.financecolombia.com/epms-hidroituango-mediation-talks-with-contractors-collapse-warring-lawsuits-filed/ · Government Sets 2023 Minimum Wage For Colombia https://www.financecolombia.com/government-sets-2023-minimum-wage-for-colombia/ · Peru’s Government Issues Formal Protest, Calls Gustavo Petro’s Statements “Unacceptable” https://www.financecolombia.com/perus-government-issues-formal-protest-calls-gustavo-petros-statements-unacceptable/ · Colombia Begins Exporting Mangos To The United States https://www.financecolombia.com/colombia-begins-exporting-mangos-to-the-united-states/ · Colombia Soundly Defeated At WTO Arbitration Panel In Potato Trade Dispute With EU https://www.financecolombia.com/colombia-soundly-defeated-at-wto-arbitration-panel-in-potato-trade-dispute-with-eu/ · Explosion At Bogotá’s El Dorado International Airport Leaves 3 Injured, Disrupts Flights https://www.financecolombia.com/explosion-at-bogotas-el-dorado-international-airport-leaves-3-injured-disrupts-flights/ · Colombia’s Cattle Rancher’s Federation Has A Big Beef With Medellín Mayor Daniel Quintero https://www.financecolombia.com/colombias-cattle-ranchers-federation-has-a-big-beef-with-medellin-mayor-daniel-quintero/ · Daniel Quintero, wants to give out 361 pigs to, according to him, 200,000 children and adults in Medellín https://www.financecolombia.com/after-running-an…e-away-free-pigs/
In this week's Colombia business news recap:
- Tecnoglass continues to break records
- EPM postpones the bid process to finish Hidroituango for the fifth time
- Mayor McMeat and the cattle ranchers
- Emerging new restaurants among Latin America's best
- Tax Reform has passed (That means big tax hikes!)
Events to attend:
CGS Medellín 2022 – November 8-9 https://colombiagold.co/
Miami Rum Renaissance - November 12-13 https://www.rumrenaissance.com/
Petro at 100 Days: Perspectives for International Investors – November 9 https://www.medellinglobal.org/events/cafe-conversatorio-con-colombia-risk-analysis/
Petroleum & Gas Forum - https://cumbrepetroleoygas.com/en/
Cleantec Show and TecnoEdificios – November 22-23 https://www.tecnoedificios.com/en/ https://www.cleantec.show/en/
Bonds & Loans Latin America & The Caribbean – November 29, 30 https://bondsloans.com/events/latinamerica Remember to register with code FC20 for a 20% discount!
In this week’s Podcast:
Neighboring Brazil’s presidential election
A week of protests throughout Colombia
The falling Colombian Peso
Daily revolving chairmanship at Ecopetrol
Petro’s land redistribution deal with the ranchers
Daniel Quintero’s crisis at EPM and Hidroituango
Some can’t miss events during November!
See the full article here: https://wp.me/p5zFfx-6vh
Formerly known as the Colombia Gold Summit, CGS Medellín is back bigger and better for 2022. - https://colombiagold.co/ - The symposium and trade show hosts precious metals mining executives, operators and investors active in Colombia and the greater Andean region involved in gold, silver and copper extraction. Organized by Paul Harris, also the publisher of CGS Research, CGS Medellín along with its newer sibling, CGS Quito have become the most important precious metals mining industry events in the Andes region.
Finance Colombia executive editor Loren Moss caught up with a busy Paul Harris for an update on preparations for this year’s event, slated for November 8-9 at the Medellín Hotel Intercontinental. Moss will be a speaker at this year’s event covering mining technology investment, and major sponsors include GlobeXplore Drilling & Analytics, OilRed/Chevron, ALS, and Cordoba Minerals. Women In Mining Colombia and the Viva Air Foundation are supporting the Women In Mining Initiative.
Subscribe to Finance Colombia for free at https://fcsubscribe.com/
In this week's news recap, monkeypox is confirmed in Colombia, the Truth commission issues its final report, President-Elect Petro appoints a foreign minister from the conservative party, a gruesome prison fire leaves at least 52 dead, and the San Andres archipelago mostly escapes Tropical Storm bonnie.
For the first time in modern history, Colombia will have a far left president. Former revolutionary guerilla Gustavo Petro won today's election against real estate developer Rodolfo Hernandez.
Petro says he wants to completely remake Colombia's economy. What does this mean for the economic sector? For international relations? For Colombia's poor? For Colombia's rich? Will Petro be remembered as a José Mujica or a Hugo Chavez? Is he a social reformer or communist bogeyman?
Some good news coming from the industrial, travel, and high-tech sectors, plus on the eve of Colombia's presidential election runoff, a little bit of analysis. Are Colombians really choosing between "The Devil and the deep blue sea," as the WSJ's Mary Anastasia O'Grady said?