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IMF Hails Argentina’s Faster Reserve Build, Confirms February Review

The lender says early-January FX purchases supported by policy tweaks strengthen prospects for durable market access.

Overview

  • The BCRA bought about US$515 million across eight sessions to start the year, with daily purchases topping 5% of market volume most days, according to the IMF.
  • IMF spokesperson Julie Kozack said a technical mission is expected in February to conduct the second review, with exact dates still to be announced.
  • That review will take up missed 2025 reserve targets and potential waivers, with a pending disbursement reported at roughly US$1 billion tied to the outcome.
  • The IMF welcomed Congress’s approval of the 2026 budget as consistent with a zero general fiscal deficit and noted ongoing efforts on labor reforms.
  • Officials have launched a revised exchange-rate and monetary framework with a preannounced FX purchase program, while near-term IMF interest payments of about US$820–900 million fall due in early February.