Iceland faces two Pathways
By Iceland Watch, Special for USDR
Today, the Institute for Liberty (IFL) launched its latest project, Iceland Watch, with the goal of examining Iceland as it stands at a political and economic crossroads as the country considers lifting capital controls. Regarding the launch of Iceland Watch, the Institute for Liberty President Andrew Langer released the following:
“The Institute for Liberty has followed Iceland’s path to recovery since the 2008 collapse and has developed an increased concern over recent protectionist economic policies like the discriminatory practices against offshore króna investors.
“In creating Iceland Watch, we aim to keep the public apprised of any anti-democratic and anti-free trade policies put into place by the Althingi, Iceland’s parliament, which could threaten the property rights of offshore investors in Iceland’s króna.
“Holders of Iceland’s offshore króna include several American investors, which serve a variety of retail investors like retirees with 401k plans and institutional investors such as corporate and public retirement plans, foundations, and endowments.
“Despite investors’ willingness to support Iceland during its time of transition and several distinct offers to negotiate good faith solutions, the Icelandic government refuses to offer anything other than a clear take-it-or-leave-it scenario. The discrimination against foreign investors is disturbing and could affect millions of American holders of 401k and retirement accounts.
“When Iceland’s parliament, the Althingi, convenes its Summer Special Session on August 15, its actions will indicate whether the island nation will reintegrate itself into international free markets or further its isolation by instating new costly, misguided policies that chill investment and economic growth.”
For more information about Iceland Watch, visit www.icelandwatch.org.
SOURCE Iceland Watch
