Cryptocurrency and Financial Inclusion. Also, Bitcoin Crash in El Salvador.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 18
PROGRAM # 9889 12:00 PM PT

The Debt Ceiling and the New Congress.

This week, the US reached its public debt ceiling. Treasury Secretary, Janet Yellen, warned that if Congress does not authorize expanding that cap, the damage to the country’s economy could be irreparable. Congress usually authorizes the increase, but this time the political gridlock calls into question the will to do so. What are the risks if the debt is not increased? Who oppose it and why? Can the crisis be averted?

Guest: Jose Lopez Zamorano, Reporter, Washington, DC.

Earthquakes, Maras and Bitcoin’s fall in El Salvador. El Salvador started 2023 with earthquakes, a State of Exception in the fight against gangs and with a resounding failure of cryptocurrencies. President Nayib Bukele doubled down his commitment this year to Bitcoin, despite global financial scandals and millions in public money losses. More than a year after becoming the first country to adopt that digital token, how does the collapse of cryptocurrencies affect the Salvadoran economy?

Guest: Leonel Herrera, Reporter, San Salvador, ES.

Photo: Kanchanara via Unsplash

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