Argentina is a South American country that is one of the G20 economies. It is the third largest economy in Latin America and has the highest GDP per capita in its region. It possesses plenty of natural resources, a strong agricultural sector, and a well-educated population.
Argentina’s Main Industries
- Agriculture: beef, fruits and vegetables, wheat, cattle, tabacco
- Natural Resources: shale oil, coal, natural gas, forestry products
- Metals: gold, copper, zinc, magnesium, uranium, silver
- Manufacturing: food processing, chemicals and pharmaceuticals, auto parts, iron and steel, industrial machinery, textiles, cement
Argentina’s Main Stock Exchanges
The two main stock exchanges in Argentina by size are Buenos Aires Stock Exchange (BCBA) and Rosario Stock Exchange (BRVM).
Buenos Aires Stock Exchange
- Argentina’s largest and primary stock exchange
- Operates as a self-regulating, non-profit entity
- MERVAL is the main index
Ways to Invest in Argentina
There are a couple of different ways to invest in Argentine companies:
Argentinian Banks and Financial Firms
- Santander Rio
- BBVA Banco Frances
- BNP Paribas
- BACS BANCO DE CREDITO Y SECURITIZACION
Argentina ETFs
International Online Brokers
Glimpse into Argentina’s Equity Market
Considered an emerging economy, Argentina attracts significant foreign investors and capital.
In 2022 Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) increased in Argentina to $15 billion, (source: World Investment Report 2023). With the 3rd largest economy in Latin America, it has gained a reputation as a country with high inflation and a complex regulations. However, the government has been implementing policies to attract more foreign investment.
There are opportunities in the energy industry as Argentina has significant shale gas and oil reserves. Mining is another big industry with several major producers of copper, lithium and other minerals in the country. Buenes Aires is also emerging as a major tech center for Latin America. With many skilled workers and a lower cost of living compared to other tech hubs, new Argentinian tech startups are experiencing a competitive advantage. The government is aiming to support continued technological innovation through tax incentives in high-tech sectors.
Stock Index Performance: MERVAL
The MERVAL (stock index) is a weight-adjusted fund that has been trading since 1986. It was initiated by the S&P Dow Jones Indices in 2019. MERV reached an all-time high in May 2024. Since the beginning of 2024, the index has increased 69.57%.
