🇻🇪 Venezuela’s oil should last centuries, yet ordinary people are still waiting for the recovery to reach their pockets. Since Maduro’s removal early this year, oil output has climbed back above 1M barrels a day and the economy is projected to grow around 6% in 2026. Exports are rising and some investment is returning. But for the average Venezuelan the picture is slower. Official monthly income hovers near $240, inflation remains punishing, and many households still struggle to cover basic food costs. The money is flowing mainly through the oil sector while wages lag and prices stay high. The massive reserves are finally being tapped again, yet the benefits have not yet translated into broad relief for daily life. Source: @jackprandelli, The Merchant News / Writer: Lucas