Sandro Castro, a businessman and social media influencer who is also the grandson of Fidel Castro, has stirred controversy with his recent Instagram post titled “Notisandro.” In this video, he blends sarcasm with candid critiques of the ongoing crisis in Cuba, while advising Cubans on where not to invest their money.
In the video, Sandro wears a bottle of repellent on his head, a nod to the health crisis caused by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. He humorously reports from "Apagonia," referring to the frequent blackouts and the country's deepening crisis, stating that the only light seen is the sun.
Amidst jokes and ironic remarks, the dictator’s grandson discusses the soaring dollar value in the informal market, citing “El Toque” as the source with USD reaching 450 pesos. He urges his followers to "stop buying" dollars to encourage a drop in the currency's value.
Interestingly, Castro did not mention the alternative exchange rate he previously promised to launch with support from private entrepreneurs and mipyme owners in Cuba. This omission comes after a governmental campaign against “El Toque” and following the announcement that the Central Bank of Cuba will introduce a new exchange rate, a move shrouded in secrecy without a specified launch date or methodology.
Sandro's silence has fueled speculation among his followers, who anticipated more details on the proposed economic project and jokingly suggest he become the new minister of the economy, given the downfall of the previous minister.
Castro's Humorous Investment Advice
In a mocking tone, Sandro also references “La Cuevita,” a well-known informal market in Havana, suggesting it as a place to find "the best investment opportunities."
When asked whether it was a good time to invest in gold chains, the influencer quipped, “I see many long chains, now is not the time to invest in that.” This comment was interpreted as a double entendre. It humorously alludes to the trial of reggaeton artist Chocolate MC in Miami, who faces a potential life sentence, to whom Sandro expressed support in the same video.
Moreover, through his ambiguous statement, Sandro indirectly references the secretive trial against former Minister of Economy Alejandro Gil, who could face a similar fate in Havana after being tried by the regime behind closed doors last week.
Sandro concluded his video with laughter and jabs at the administration of Miguel Díaz-Canel, whom he indirectly blamed for the nation’s energy and economic turmoil.
Insights on Sandro Castro's Economic Commentary
Why did Sandro Castro advise against buying dollars in the informal market?
Sandro Castro suggested avoiding the purchase of dollars to help drive down its value, as it had surged to 450 pesos in the informal market.
What was the reaction to Sandro Castro's omission of the alternative exchange rate?
His silence led to speculation among followers who were expecting more information about the economic project, especially after the government's campaign against “El Toque.”
How did Sandro Castro mock the government of Miguel Díaz-Canel?
Sandro ended his video with laughter and sarcastic comments, indirectly blaming Díaz-Canel's administration for Cuba’s ongoing energy and economic issues.