IMF's Georgieva asks Argentines about dollars 'under the mattress'

International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva playfully engaged with university students in Argentina, asking, "How many of you have dollars under the mattress?" The question drew laughter and highlighted her remarks on the "Fiscal Innocence Law," a key initiative by Economy Minister Luis Caputo aimed at encouraging Argentines to bring their informal savings back into the formal financial system.

During an event at the Libertad Palace, Georgieva moved beyond protocol, blending economic commentary on Argentina with personal anecdotes and advice for young people. She described the law's name as "cute" before posing her question about hidden dollars, underscoring the need for these savings to re-enter the financial system to foster economic recovery and rebuild confidence.

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How many of you have dollars under the mattress?

Georgieva's visit included a meeting with President Javier Milei at the Casa Rosada and participation in an expanded cabinet session. Later, she addressed students from various universities, including the University of San Andrés, Torcuato Di Tella University, the National University of La Plata, and the University of Buenos Aires' School of Economics. The discussion was moderated by economist Lara López Calvo and attended by most of the economic cabinet.

In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Georgieva thanked President Milei for a productive dialogue on Argentina's progress and future path. She stressed that maintaining reforms, strengthening stability, and attracting investments are crucial for driving growth and creating opportunities for the Argentine people. Earlier, a student asked Georgieva about the obstacles she faced as one of the few women leading a major international organization and sought advice for young women aspiring to similar careers. She spoke about female empowerment and self-belief, noting that women's sensitivity can aid in making significant decisions.

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Thanks, President @JMilei, for a productive dialogue on the progress of Argentina and the path forward. Maintaining reforms, strengthening stability, and attracting investments will be key to boosting growth and creating more opportunities for the Argentine people.