Six former Finance Ministers oppose Petro's proposal to impose mandatory investments: 'It's a terrible idea'

Portafolio Journalist 02.18.2026 07:38 Updated: 02.18.2026 07:38

Six former Finance Ministers oppose Petro's proposal to impose mandatory investments: 'It's a terrible idea'

TL;DR

  • Six former Finance Ministers oppose President Petro's proposal for mandatory investments in the financial sector.
  • They argue the proposal is a "terrible idea" that will increase interest rates and reduce credit availability.
  • International experience suggests these schemes have negative effects and are often dismantled.
  • Bolivia and Venezuela are cited as examples of countries that have implemented new mandatory investments with negative outcomes.
  • More effective alternatives like rediscount guarantees and interest rate subsidies are proposed.
  • The ministers advocate for technical debate rather than a rushed decision due to the emergency.