Peter Thiel moves to Argentina and faces protests over proposed tech-focused regulatory changes
Peter Thiel moved his family to a $12 million residence in Buenos Aires this April. Following his relocation, dozens of protesters gathered at his mansion to hold signs and express unease regarding his presence in the country.
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The move occurred as the Argentinian government, led by Javier Milei, proposed a series of sweeping regulatory changes. During a week-long debate in the chamber of deputies, officials discussed a set of laws intended to benefit foreign companies, including a minimal tax rate and a 30-year guarantee against regulatory change. These laws specifically target AI datacentres. Other proposed measures included a law to eliminate restrictions on foreigners buying land and a decree requiring government departments to share personal data with state intelligence services. While Peter Thiel has not publicly advocated for these laws, he held closed-door meetings with Javier Milei and presidential advisers shortly after moving to the country. Critics noted that the timing of the reforms suggests a plan to entrench the power of US tech billionaires in Argentina. Some observers described the country as a laboratory for these reforms, noting that the reforms align with the techno-libertarian interests of Peter Thiel.