Venezuela to partially liberalize exchange rate

Venezuela announced Tuesday it was easing strict currency controls by allowing dollars to be bought and sold through banks and brokerage houses, seeking to shore up its shrinking, import-dependent economy. The changes are aimed at easing a fiscal deficit aggravated by plunging oil prices amid a severe recession, inflation and shortages of basic goods. Venezuela's sinking economy has become a threat to the political future of President Nicolas Maduro in a legislative election year that could