In an era of smart cities, 3D printing and artificial intelligence, The Economist awarded the “humble loo” the world’s greatest innovation. Why? It has saved the lives of billions. The World Health Organization concluded that one dollar spent on sanitation generates a return of $5.50. In Latin America the return climbs over $7.00 – the second highest after East Asia. When … [Read more...] about Investing in water and sanitation is no dirty business
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What does paternity leave have to do with a company’s success?
Companies in Latin America cannot find the human talent they’re looking for. An international survey of 41,000 companies found that more than 60% of employers in countries like Brazil and Peru have problems filling vacancies. In Costa Rica, more than 45% of the companies surveyed are dealing with this—they simply cannot find the right people. … [Read more...] about What does paternity leave have to do with a company’s success?
Five lessons from the expansion of the Panama Canal
By Rachel Robboy Many aspects of the Panama Canal expansion make it stand out. The 7-year project to add a third lane to accommodate giant ships with triple the cargo capacity is the largest infrastructure project in Latin America and the Caribbean, costing over $5 billion. It brings in 22 percent of Panama’s national gross domestic product, allowing the country to grow at 6 … [Read more...] about Five lessons from the expansion of the Panama Canal
Why is there growing demand for Central American cocoa?
In pre-Columbian times, cocoa was a commodity so valuable it was used as a currency. In Mesoamerica, where it has been consumed for millennia, the Aztecs paid for everyday items in cocoa beans. Three would buy you a turkey egg, one hundred a whole hen. … [Read more...] about Why is there growing demand for Central American cocoa?
Why does the private sector need capital markets?
Across emerging markets, access to finance is one of the largest barriers to success for private enterprises. Business leaders cite scarcity of credit as their main concern for growth, outweighing issues like corruption, tax and political instability. … [Read more...] about Why does the private sector need capital markets?