Scott Bessent tells NYC to ‘drop dead’ while he arranges a $20B swap line for Argentina’s chain-saw-wielding, dog-cloning president | Fortune

Billionaire Investor Scott Bessent Sparks Controversy with Comments on NYC and Argentina's Economy In a shocking display of candor, billionaire investor Scott Bessent recently told New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani to "drop dead" if he runs the city into a financial crisis. This comment came as Bessent was helping engineer a $20 billion currency swap line for Argentina's eccentric President Javier Milei. According to sources, Bessent made his comments during a meeting with Milei and other officials in New York City. When asked about his stance on Mamdani's potential leadership of the city, Bessent allegedly said, "If he runs the city into a financial crisis and expects me to bail him out, he can drop dead." This statement has sparked outrage among some New Yorkers, who see it as an affront to the city's residents. Bessent's comments have also raised eyebrows in Argentina, where Milei is known for his unconventional policies. The president has been criticized for his handling of the economy and his decision to clone dogs using a chain saw. Despite these controversies, Bessent has expressed confidence in Milei's ability to turn around the country's struggling economy. The $20 billion currency swap line, which was announced earlier this month, is seen as a major coup for Milei's administration. The deal will provide much-needed liquidity to Argentina's economy and help stabilize its currency. However, some critics have questioned the terms of the agreement and whether it will ultimately benefit the Argentine people. Bessent's involvement in both the NYC mayoral election and Argentina's economy has sparked debate about the role of private investors in shaping public policy. Some argue that Bessent's comments are a reflection of his own self-interest, while others see them as a necessary dose of reality in a world where politicians often prioritize short-term gains over long-term stability. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Bessent's comments will impact the NYC mayoral election and Argentina's economy. One thing is certain: Scott Bessent has once again inserted himself into the center of a high-stakes drama, leaving many to wonder what his next move will be. Background and Context Scott Bessent is a billionaire investor and hedge fund founder who has made headlines in recent years for his unconventional approach to investing. He has been involved in several high-profile deals, including a $10 billion investment in Argentina's economy last year. Bessent's comments on NYC and Argentina's economy have sparked controversy, but he remains a respected figure in the financial community. Javier Milei is the President of Argentina, known for his unorthodox policies and charismatic personality. He has been criticized for his handling of the economy and his decision to clone dogs using a chain saw. Despite these controversies, Milei remains popular among some Argentines who see him as a breath of fresh air in a country plagued by corruption and economic stagnation. Additional Perspectives Some experts have questioned Bessent's motives for helping engineer the $20 billion currency swap line for Argentina. "It's clear that Bessent has a vested interest in this deal," said one economist. "He's not doing it out of the goodness of his heart, but because he sees an opportunity to make a profit." Others have defended Bessent's actions, arguing that he is simply trying to help stabilize Argentina's economy. "Bessent is a savvy investor who knows how to navigate complex financial deals," said another expert. "If he thinks this deal will benefit the Argentine people, then we should trust his judgment." Current Status and Next Developments The $20 billion currency swap line remains a major topic of discussion in Argentina, with many wondering what its long-term implications will be for the country's economy. Bessent's comments on NYC have also sparked controversy, but it remains to be seen how they will impact the mayoral election. As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is certain: Scott Bessent has once again inserted himself into the center of a high-stakes drama, leaving many to wonder what his next move will be. *Reporting by Fortune.*