Rafael Di Tella is a Harvard University professor specializing in institutions, macroeconomics, and global economics. He graduated as an economist from the UBA and received a doctorate from Oxford. His father Guido Di Tella was a former vice minister of Economy and chancellor of two Peronist governments. Di Tella currently lives and works in Boston but is visiting the country. He is also a twice Olympian, having represented Argentina in fencing at the Olympic Games in Seoul 88 and Barcelona 92.
In a recent interview, Di Tella discussed his thoughts on the first 100 days of Javier Milei’s government. He commended Milei for focusing on breaking fiscal dominance to stabilize and grow the economy, even though it involves some suffering. Di Tella believes that it is necessary to correct the mistakes of the previous government in order to achieve progress. He also discussed the challenges of inflation, recession, and the exchange rate policy implemented by Milei.
When asked about the best summary of Milei’s plan, Di Tella compared him to a “Thatcher of the pampas,” highlighting the similarities between the two leaders in terms of conviction and the need for structural reforms. Di Tella also discussed the lessons that can be learned from Menem’s government, particularly in terms of how structural reforms can help with macroeconomic stabilization.
Regarding current events in Argentina, Di Tella expressed his concerns about inflation and recession but also expressed hope that these issues will be addressed through structural reforms implemented by Milei’s government. When asked about his thoughts on international politics, he humorously mentioned that he might consider returning to Argentina if Joe Biden wins over Donald Trump in November’s US election.
Di Tella also shared his thoughts on mixing clubs with public limited companies in sports and emphasized that direction is important when making policy decisions.
Overall, Rafael Di Tella is an expert economist who specializes in institutions
