The worst of the epidemic is over, but Mexico's economy is hit hard

Mexico’s economy caught the flu rather badly, and has contracted 8.2% in the first quarter of 2009. Experts assess that it is likely to continue to sink further and faster than had been expected. Look for a recovery of the patient in the second quarter of 2010.

Mexico factsheet (data from the Economist Intelligence Unit):

• Area 1,972,545 sq. km.
• Population 104.9 million
• Number of households 24.1 million
• Fertility rate (per woman) 2.4
• Adult literacy 91%
• GDP US$677 billion
• Agriculture 4.1%
• Industry 26.4%, of which manufacturing 19.5%
• Services 69.5%
• Mobile phone subscribers per 100 pop. 36.6

In the meantime, your research for investment opportunities may start with the following Mexican funds and companies: iShares MSCI Mexico, Telefonos de Mexico, Cemex, Mexico Fund, Mexico Equity & Income Fund, Cimarex Energy, America Movil.

After which, look forward to the good times of tequila, the doffed sombrero, and the siesta...