Weekend News Summary: March 14-16, 2025 – BAI Capital
This weekend has been marked by significant events in the fields of macroeconomics, immigration, real estate, and investments in the United States. Below is a summary of the most relevant news:
Florida Tightens Measures Against Undocumented Immigrants
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed SB-2 into law, considered one of the strictest measures against undocumented immigrants in the U.S.
This legislation expands the 287(g) program, requiring all law enforcement agencies to cooperate with ICE and imposing harsher penalties for minor offenses committed by undocumented individuals.
Additionally, it introduces a mandatory death penalty for serious crimes, a measure criticized for its potential unconstitutionality. It also removes in-state tuition benefits for undocumented students, directly affecting “Dreamers.”
Organizations such as the ACLU argue that the law violates principles of equality and due process, while local business owners fear its impact on the labor force.
Trump’s New Immigration Ban: Impact on International Students and Viable Alternatives
The administration of Donald Trump is considering a new immigration ban that would restrict entry for citizens from up to 43 countries, including Afghanistan, Cuba, Iran, Venezuela, and North Korea. This measure could significantly impact international students from these countries, limiting their access to higher education in the U.S. Universities and educational organizations have expressed concern, arguing that the policy will reduce campus diversity and harm the country’s academic competitiveness.
In response to these restrictions, affected students are exploring viable alternatives, such as academic programs in countries with more flexible immigration policies, the possibility of studying remotely at U.S. universities, or transferring to institutions in Canada and Europe. Experts recommend that U.S. universities provide greater legal support and guidance to international students to mitigate the impact of these policies. Read the full article here.
OECD Lowers Global Growth Forecasts Due to Trump’s Policies
The OECD has lowered global growth projections for 2025 and 2026, citing the negative effects of U.S. protectionism on global trade.
Geopolitical tensions and trade wars—partly linked to former President Trump’s policies—are affecting business investment and confidence in several economies, including Brazil, Canada, and the U.S.
Meanwhile, Spain stands out with the highest growth rate among developed economies, with a revised forecast of 2.6% for this year.
Elon Musk Warns About Tariff Impact on Tesla
Elon Musk has warned the U.S. government that tariffs imposed by the Trump administration could seriously impact Tesla’s operations by increasing manufacturing and import costs.
In a letter to the U.S. Trade Representative, Musk highlighted that American companies, including Tesla, will suffer disproportionate consequences if other countries retaliate with their own tariffs.
Tesla has already faced declining international sales and stock value due to production challenges and lower demand in key markets.
Ron DeSantis Seeks to Establish Himself as a Conservative Leader
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is implementing policies aimed at strengthening his position within the conservative movement. His recent initiatives include creating the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a measure that has sparked debate over its necessity and cost.
Additionally, DeSantis has proposed eliminating property taxes, an initiative facing criticism due to concerns about its feasibility and potential impact on state finances.
EB-4 Visa Program for Religious Workers Expires
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) confirmed that the EB-4 visa program for certain religious workers will expire on March 14, 2025. After this date, no new visas will be issued under this category, nor will status adjustments be processed for pending applicants.
The EB-4 visa is designed for specific groups fulfilling essential roles in the U.S., including religious workers, employees of broadcasting organizations, and members of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Mexican Investors Increase Real Estate Purchases in Miami
The Miami Association of Realtors reported a boom in Mexican investments in the city, with Mexican investors spending $291 million in the U.S. real estate market in 2024 alone.
This surge reflects growing confidence among Mexican investors in the U.S. real estate market, particularly in Miami.
