Non-Residential Capital Stock in Latin America, 1875-2008: New Estimates and International Comparisons

We use a homogeneous method to estimate non-residential capital stock for Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Mexico. Our estimates extend back to the late-nineteenth century, 50 years earlier than the present available estimates. Our estimates use the gross fixed capital formation data base (1850-1950). These data are linked with existing standardised national accounts for the region, such as those of Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean. Finally, we compare investment in Latin American countries to that of advanced economies, particularly focussing on the performance of two settler countries, Argentina and Australia.