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Today, Wednesday, January 1, 2025, the Yoruba Cultural Association of Cuba has unveiled the highly anticipated Letter of the Year. This spiritual document provides guidance and predictions for the new year, featuring the governing sign Ogunda Ogbe and Shangó as the main deity. Among the recommendations for devotees are caution regarding illnesses and the importance of truth and personal growth.
Despite the celebratory atmosphere, the recent post by Sandro Castro, grandson of Fidel Castro, has sparked controversy. His call to "drink as if there were no tomorrow" in his New Year’s message has been criticized by many Cubans on social media, who view his words as a mockery of the current context of scarcity and crisis.
In the economic sphere, the US dollar is currently priced at 305 Cuban pesos, reflecting the escalating economic crisis in Cuba. With the euro at 310 CUP and the freely convertible currency (MLC) at 250 CUP, the informal market remains the primary access route for many people due to inflation and other factors.
Meanwhile, the streets of Havana woke up today deserted, a visual testament to the economic frustration and restrictions faced by Cubans. The lack of resources for celebrations and the stark economic landscape have kept families at home, once again highlighting the crisis affecting all sectors of society.
On the other hand, controversy arises with the decision of some stores not to accept MLC. According to comedian Otto Ortiz, only cash in U.S. dollars or Visa and Mastercard cards are now accepted. This highlights a growing dollarization in certain sectors, adding more pressure to a population that is already facing significant challenges as the new year approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Economic and Social Situation in Cuba on January 1, 2025
What is the Letter of the Year revealed by the Yoruba Association of Cuba?
The Letter of the Year revealed by the Yoruba Association of Cuba for 2025 is governed by the sign Ogunda Ogbe, with Shangó as the main deity. This spiritual prediction provides guidance on health and personal development, advising devotees to pay attention to illnesses and the importance of truth.
Why has Sandro Castro's New Year's message caused controversy?
Sandro Castro, grandson of Fidel Castro, sparked controversy by posting a message on social media urging people to "drink like there’s no tomorrow." Many Cubans have criticized his words, viewing them as a mockery of the current situation of scarcity and crisis in Cuba. This reaction reflects the public's discontent with the stark contrast between the statements of public figures and the reality faced by the population.
What is the current situation of the dollar and other currencies in Cuba?
The U.S. dollar is currently trading at 305 Cuban pesos in Cuba's informal market. The euro is valued at 310 CUP, and the freely convertible currency (MLC) is at 250 CUP. These rates reflect the economic crisis in Cuba, characterized by inflation and the devaluation of the Cuban peso, which forces many citizens to turn to the informal market to obtain foreign currency.
Why do some stores in Cuba not accept MLC as a form of payment?
Some stores in Cuba have stopped accepting payments in freely convertible currency (MLC), allowing only cash in dollars or payments with Visa and Mastercard. This measure is part of a "partial dollarization of the economy" announced by the Cuban government. The aim is to regulate certain key economic sectors, such as trade and tourism, in an effort to attract foreign currency.
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