Same message as to Kerrisdale90210. I believe that that kerrisdale20210 has taken his commentary over to the OT forum. Lets keep the responses there as well.

Unlike Kerrisdale, the only thing I'm passionate about here is the security of my investment.

Ecuador just broke off diplomatic relations with Colombia and moved troops up to the border area. Colombia has recalled its ambassador. Someone that didn't understand the nuances of all this might be tempted to dump a whole bunch of shares, like this morning, for example. We have no idea if that drop was related to movements in the price of gold, or a reaction to political developments vis a vis Colombia.

Elements within AP are sympathetic to FARC, which may have influenced Correa's decision not to police the border as they're obliged to do under international law. I can't imagine that Correa didn't know FARC were there. Obviously Colombia did and no doubt would have alerted the Ecuadorian authorities.

Anything that affects Correa's standing with the Ecuadorian electorate ought to be of interest to this board. Anything that affects the perception of country risk ought to of interest as well. Don't forget, ARU is in an area that was the scene of war with Peru not that long ago. If this was happening on that border, it would most definitely be on topic.

Also, Colombia is a major trading partner with Ecuador. If that trade is affected by this, it also affects the internal political and economic situation. We are also, by some accounts, awaiting a buyout. If this situation deteriorates, it may cause second thoughts.

I may have chosen the wrong thread (I'm being optimistic here calling it a thread - hello Agoracom?) to state my view of the events, but I don't think they're off topic. None of my previous (translated) articles on the political situation were deemed as such. I'll refrain from engaging Kerrisdale if that's the issue, but I'll continue to put my comments on the political situation where they belong: on the front page.

There is a downside to too much executive control. Something we all ought to be familiar with, given the nature of Ecuadorian politics.

ebear