Currency fears spread in Latin America

Latin America is going Brazilian. Previously, it was only Brazil, the region’s biggest economy, that complained about the competitive devaluations generated by money-printing in the west, the so-called currency wars.

Venezuela devalues currency amid dollar shortage

CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) — Venezuela's currency devaluation took effect on Wednesday amid questions about how the government can get a grip on 22-percent inflation and satisfy growing demand for dollars to pay for imported goods.

Brazil Ethanol Above Sugar Shows Mills May Favor Biofuel

Brazilian ethanol prices trading above raw sugar futures for the first time in almost two years are spurring speculation that millers will favor making the biofuel over the sweetener in the season starting in April.

Mexico ETF Boosted by Expanding Economy

Mexico is the new focus of the Latin American economies, as the banking industry is in a growth spurt. Investors could consider the exchange traded fund for diversified portfolios as the middle class expands and wages rise.

Venezuela sharply devalues its currency

CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) — Venezuela's government announced Friday that it is devaluing the country's currency, a long-anticipated change expected to push up prices in the heavily import-reliant economy.

S&P Expects Latin America Growth to Pick Up in 2013

SAO PAULO--Economic growth in Latin America should be greater this year, led by Brazil, but measures taken to protect the region from crises are crimping growth, said Sebastian Briozzo, director of Latin America credit for Standard and Poor's Ratings Services.

Chile Unexpectedly Posts Jan. Trade Surplus as Exports Surge

Chile posted a $244 million trade surplus last month, surprising analysts who had forecast a deficit, as exports and imports surged.