In this world, social unrest and corruption worsen, and the economies of South American countries stagnate. If “Disintegration in Hell” is expected to emerge in the future, then the required return needs to be much higher. But if “Disintegration in Hell” emerges, stock prices might drop dramatically, and if there is a good chance for a recovery, a return of between 30 and 40% might be achievable.
I will first address the sovereign spread (SSX), which is measuring the chance that the country defaults on its foreign debt. External forces that might potentially affect sovereign spreads include:16
GDP growth—Continues to be hampered by corruption, criminal activity and unstable government (economic stagnation).
Social & environmental—Fiscal balance worsens due to increased government expenditure (e.g., extensive food subsidies), the cost of environmental cleanup, plus a lack of tax revenue (stagnant economy and tax avoidance).
External debt—Worsens due to drop in gross domestic product hampering ability to pay creditors.
Per capita income—Rural poverty increases, urban shantytowns expanded. Disparities are increased
but average incomes may not change significantly.
Economic development—No increase in the level of industrialization, hampered by corruption and
criminal activity.
Willingness to default—Concerns over the international influence of default may be overwhelmed by
the desire to please domestic voters, plus unstable government makes it hard to predict future policy.
Social & environmental—Fiscal balance worsens due to increased government expenditure (e.g., extensive food subsidies), the cost of environmental cleanup, plus a lack of tax revenue (stagnant economy and tax avoidance).
External debt—Worsens due to drop in gross domestic product hampering ability to pay creditors.
Per capita income—Rural poverty increases, urban shantytowns expanded. Disparities are increased
but average incomes may not change significantly.
Economic development—No increase in the level of industrialization, hampered by corruption and
criminal activity.
Willingness to default—Concerns over the international influence of default may be overwhelmed by
the desire to please domestic voters, plus unstable government makes it hard to predict future policy.