Resources Without Prosperity:
Analyzing Latin America’s Economic Struggles
Luncheon discussion led by Jorge Jraissati
Why has Latin America, despite its abundant resources, entrepreneurial population, and early industrial promise, failed to achieve sustained economic growth, regional integration, or political stability? This lecture explores the historical and structural forces that have shaped the region’s economic trajectory. Drawing on comparative insights, the talk analyses Latin America’s persistent paradox: how a region with all the preconditions for development remains among the most unequal and economically stagnant in the world. We will discuss the interrelation between a nation’s institutional architecture and its rates of economic growth, from its government institutions to its societal norms. We will also analyze the role of elites in economic development, how resources shape a country’s future, and whether the region will take advantage of its current opportunities.
Lunch provided.
Jorge Jraissati
Jorge Jraissati is the President of the Economic Inclusion Group, and an internationally recognized expert on economic policy and financial inclusion. His organization possesses considerable expertise on modern challenges to economic freedom, including the rise of financial exclusion practices ("debanking") in the United States. EIG is also at the forefront of analyzing the economic collapse and eventual reconstruction of the Venezuelan economy, including the role of new technologies like digital assets.
Jorge has spoken about these issues at the request of numerous governments, including the United States, Germany and Great Britain. He has also delivered presentations at international institutions like the Council of Europe and European Parliament. Jorge frequently writes at outlets like Wall Street Journal, Fox Business and National Review.
He has given guest lectures at universities like Harvard, MIT and Cambridge. He has published numerous academic articles and policy reports for well known universities and think tanks. He is also a research fellow at IESE Business School, Bitcoin Policy Institute and FAU College of Business.