IS CHAVEZ DEAD, AND IF SO, WHITHER VENEZUELA ?

Reliable sources in Latin America cannot agree: is Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez Frias in an irreversible coma, or did he die on 26 December in Havana ? Either way, it is doubtful that he will be able to assume office this month, which will create a serious power struggle in Venezuela, between
the competing Chavista factions, and with the Opposition, who has declared that it will not allow the government to bend, or break, the law of presidential succession.

 If your  clients, or your bank, have important trade or finance interests in Venezuela, you advised to monitor the situation until it is sorted. Whilst a disruption in the domestic financial structure is unlikely, should protests, or civil disorder occur, ordinary commerce could be affected; Watch for indicators of instability,and check your exposure.