Bullfrog- I just wanted to tell you I feel Chavez has expected the capitalist economies and FICA money to fail. He has repeatedly acted this way, making statements and trying to make alliances to move away from the west. His actions suggest he actualy tries to encourage a collapse of the current system. I think he still belives that in a fiscal meltdown that all agreements Venezuela made, based on old treaties based on the failed monetary system, would become void. Most nations, given a complete failure of the world monetary system, would horde their respective resources to their benefit. So, If the world economy does not collapse, and the turmoil does not materialize- he will be finished. His policy of confiscation of industries, which then are not managed well, will prohibit Venezuela's participation in a recovery.

I think the best case scenario now is: Chavez approves construction at LC. Somewhere between then and production he is defeated, deposed, banished or worse. New Government / Pres supports foregin investments and business.