After months of debate, Mexico’s Congress overwhelmingly approved energy reform with the goal of ending a production slump. The reforms strengthen the authority of Pemex’s management, amongst other changes. But some analysts wonder if the new laws go far enough.

Since July, commodity prices have contracted, threatening spending programs and fiscal policy in Venezuela in particular. But the Chávez government remains optimistic amid cautionary calls.

Ottawa plans for October elections with some polls indicating the Conservative Party could gain a political majority for the first time in 20 years. While energy, the environment, and economy serve as major issues in the race, questions arise over the election's timing. 

Relations between Brazil and the United States offer “fertile areas” to partner in the fields of resource technology, security, and private sector cooperation.

U.S.-Russia tensions escalate over a proposed missile shield in Eastern Europe, sparking rumors that Moscow plans to station bombers in Cuba. Though the origin and veracity of the story remain unclear, Russian leaders called for renewed ties with Cuba after the countries inked a recent oil deal. 

After experts and officials complete more than two months of debate over how to best resolve Pemex's flagging production, Mexico's opposition party holds referendums on an energy reform package proposed by President Felipe Calderón. But neither the nonbinding referendum nor the long debate have determined Pemex's future structure.

With global commodity prices on the rise, many Latin American countries face soaring inflation. Yet experts suggest the region's economies are more well-girded than in the past to handle economic crises. The IMF's director discussed inflation at COA’s 38th Annual Washington Conference.