The days of anger, celebrations, and airs of revenge at the Casa Rosada
The article discusses tensions and decisions surrounding the new pricing measurement system of Indec in Argentina, highlighting a conflict between Luis Caputo and Marco Lavagna over the implementation.
On January 19, just before traveling to the Davos Summit, Luis Caputo informed Marco Lavagna that the new pricing measurement system developed under the previous government would not be implemented. Lavagna, the head of Indec, sensed the change was coming as he had seen hints of it in the press. When Caputo reached out to him to deliver the news, Lavagna expressed his unwillingness to support the decision, citing its potential damage to both his credibility and that of the institute he leads.
Caputo, as the Minister of Economy, attributed the decision to President Milei, asserting that it was an unavoidable resolution. Lavagna's frustration was palpable, leading him to suggest that if the government wanted to pursue this course of action, he preferred to resign from his position. This episode reflects a larger narrative of the ongoing conflicts within the Argentine government regarding economic policy and the importance of credibility in economic data reporting.
Overall, the situation indicates deep rifts and challenges within the current administration, particularly relating to economic management. The decision not to implement the new price measurement system raises significant concerns about transparency and accuracy in economic indicators, which are crucial for public trust and investor confidence in Argentina's economic direction.