Burford Capital has requested a US judge to grant it control of a 51% stake in Argentine state oil company YPF SA to collect on a $16 billion court judgment against Argentina. The motion, filed in New York, seeks to transfer the shares through a custodial account at Bank of New York Mellon. The case stems from Argentina's 2012 seizure of YPF, which violated company by-laws. Despite Argentina's appeal, the judgment is subject to immediate collection. Burford, having acquired interests in YPF shares, stands to gain significantly if the judgment is enforced.

Argentina's corn farmers face a severe setback as leafhopper swarms devastate crops, threatening the nation's economic recovery. The infestation, spreading spiroplasma disease, has significantly reduced production potential, with estimates for the corn crop dropping from 56.5 million to 49.5 million metric tons. The situation is exacerbated by rains affecting soybean harvests, potentially lowering crop quality and prices. The economic impact is substantial, with $4.5 billion in export revenue losses projected. President Javier Milei's plans to boost the economy by removing money controls face challenges from these agricultural setbacks and potential future droughts due to La Nina.

Bank of Montreal’s capital reserves will increase in the fourth quarter following a legal victory related to its involvement in a multi-billion-dollar Ponzi scheme in Minnesota.

Workers in Argentine soy-processing plants have initiated a strike during the soy harvest season, protesting against income-tax and work-rule changes proposed in President Javier Milei's reform legislation. The strike, led by SOEA and joined by the Federation of Oilseed Industry Workers, has halted operations in the Parana port district of San Lorenzo and other districts, impacting major soy crushers like Cargill, Viterra, Cofco, Louis Dreyfus, and Bunge Global. The labor action comes as heavy rains have already delayed bean deliveries along the Parana River.

Argentina's economic dependence on China is highlighted, despite President Javier Milei's initial anti-China stance. The country's high inflation and financial instability make it reliant on Chinese investments and trade, including an $18 billion currency swap. Milei's pragmatic approach maintains these ties, reflecting a broader trend in Latin America where Chinese influence has grown. The article also touches on the geopolitical implications of Argentina's relationship with China, including its impact on relations with the US and other countries.

Argentina's largest oil and gas producer, YPF SA, is planning to divest from mature conventional fields to reallocate approximately $800 million in capital expenditures towards shale oil activities in the Vaca Muerta formation. The divestment plan, which was announced in early February, will be managed by a bank and is expected to start at the end of the month. YPF aims to increase its shale oil production by 24% year-on-year and is adding three drilling rigs in Vaca Muerta. The company is also considering a liquefaction export terminal project with Malaysia's Petroliam Nasional Bhd and is seeking new partners, with a final investment decision possible by mid-2025.

Hurricane Otis has caused significant destruction in Acapulco, Mexico, with the death toll currently at 43 and 36 people still missing. Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador (AMLO) announced that he would be visiting Acapulco to oversee the recovery efforts. The hurricane, which unexpectedly intensified to a Category Five, has caused an estimated $15 billion in damages. Efforts are underway to restore power, telecommunications, and transport links. AMLO has faced criticism for his handling of the situation but has defended his actions by stating his presence in Mexico City aids in better coordination of the response.

A US judge has ruled that investors can begin seizing assets from Argentina to collect a $16.1 billion court judgment. This judgment stems from Argentina's 2012 nationalization of the oil company YPF SA. The ruling is a setback for Argentina, which is currently appealing a September judgment by US District Judge Loretta Preska. This judgment is the largest ever ordered by the federal court in Manhattan. Argentina, which is experiencing significant economic challenges, including high inflation, has argued that the judgment represents nearly a fifth of its budget for 2023.

Hector N. Diaz, a 41-year-old resident of Newmarket, passed away on January 20, 2006, after a prolonged battle with cancer. Born in Puerto Rico and raised in New York City, Hector had been living in Newmarket for over sixteen years. He was the owner of Jumpgate: The Science Fiction/Fantasy Store in Portsmouth for nine years and had previously worked for the University of New Hampshire. Hector was also a comic book artist and writer, known for his educational workshops on comic creation. He is survived by his family, including his wife and two sons. A memorial service is scheduled for January 28, 2006, at the Community Church of Durham. Donations in his memory can be made to New Heights in Portsmouth.

Argentina is expected to produce a soybean crop of 52 million metric tons, the best in five seasons, thanks to El Nino rains. This forecast by the Rosario Board of Trade marks a significant increase from previous estimates and is a welcome change after years of drought. The improved crop prospects could have a substantial impact on Argentina's economy, as soybean exports are a major source of revenue. The new President, Javier Milei, could benefit from the increased export income as he faces the challenge of turning around the country's economic crisis. Additionally, Argentina faces a US court ruling to pay $16.1 billion, which could affect its sovereign assets. The article also notes that Argentina's corn estimate has been raised, potentially leading to a record crop. Canada-based EarthDaily supports the soy forecast with similar estimates.