This is how it is
There is an underground of investors in DR who are making a killing with the misfortune of those who need to borrow money. Dominicans are borrowing at a scary pace. Bancredito is the largest issuer of credit cards in DR and was just recognized by international credit card organizations because of its success in this field.
This underground either knows every move made by financiers or gets inside, priviledged information that 99% of the populations doesn't.
Prior to the Baninter debacle, the big fish who held certificates of investments with Baninter, pulled out before the bomb exploded. The rest are getting the bum steer, even as Banco Central is paying off. There are $25 billion in interests due from Baninter this month for those who were left behind the long lines.
Mr. Ginebra, one of our financiers suggested that big investors should be penalized in situations like Baninter's by getting their funds last during a customer run for money. He feels that since they take the risk of investing earning high interest rates, and knowing full well that this may drive a bank broke, they should pay for it with big penalties for withdrawing when the shit hits the fan. Big investors are taking the risk knowing the Central Bank will support them in a run.
I tend to disagree with him, because investors are not at fault if the rest of Dominicans are stupid enough to borrow at such high rates of interest and maintain bad financial habits.
I personally moved from Baninter to Bancredito at the right time. Next month is the critical point for a next move. The destination is not clear. But the way things are going, it might be wise to buy a property just for safety. It's getting to where it is safer to keep your money in your car's glove compartment.
TW