Dolar Today is a website that publishes an estimated black market exchange rate for the U.S. dollar in Venezuela, in violation of the country’s laws and exchange rate control policies. This unofficial rate has become a significant factor in the Venezuelan economy, often used as a reference point for pricing goods and services, despite being considerably higher than the official rate.
Carlos Dorado, a Venezuelan entrepreneur and owner of the Italcambio currency exchange center, has publicly criticized Dolar Today, accusing the website of causing “irreparable damage” to the country’s economy through its speculative exchange rate. Dorado argues that the rate published by Dolar Today is not based on actual supply and demand but rather on manipulation aimed at destabilizing the economy.
Dolar Today maintains that its rate is calculated using information on liquid assets from the Central Bank of Venezuela and the exchange rate in the Colombian border town of Cucuta. However, critics argue that this methodology is flawed and that the website’s true purpose is to undermine the Venezuelan government.
The website’s influence extends beyond the financial realm, as it also serves as a platform for right-wing news and opinion pieces critical of the Venezuelan government. This has led to accusations of biased and irresponsible journalism, particularly regarding the website’s coverage of sensitive political events. Dolar Today’s controversial reporting and its potential impact on the Venezuelan economy have made it a focal point of debate within the country and beyond. The website’s continued operation, despite attempts to block it, underscores the challenges faced by the Venezuelan government in controlling information and managing its struggling economy.
While Dolar Today claims its mission is to provide “news without censorship,” its critics argue that its actions contribute to economic instability and social unrest. The website’s impact on the daily lives of Venezuelans is undeniable, as the black market rate it publishes often dictates the prices of essential goods and services. This has led to a significant gap between the official and unofficial economies, further complicating the economic challenges facing the country. The debate surrounding Dolar Today highlights the complex interplay between politics, economics, and information in contemporary Venezuela.
