Ultima bancă din oraș: cum ajunge un trader de petrol creditorul de ultimă instanță al unui stat

In the early 1980s, Jamaica faced a financial crisis when it couldn't pay for oil shipments. Minister Hugh Hart contacted trader Willy Strothotte, who diverted a tanker to Jamaica, providing immediate relief. This incident illustrates how commodity traders filled the void left by nationalizations in various regions, often leading to dependency on these traders. Marc Rich + Co became a significant player in Jamaica's economy, financing government operations and securing favorable contracts. However, this relationship often resulted in Jamaica receiving less than market value for its resources. The situation reflects a broader pattern where states without financial resources become reliant on traders, who then dictate terms.