IMF unlocks $140M for El Salvador, forecasts 4.5% growth; bitcoin purchases halted

The IMF approved a $140 million disbursement under El Salvador's austerity program, conditioned on the government ceasing bitcoin purchases with public funds. The Fund projects 4.5% growth for 2026, signaling endorsement of Bukele's fiscal reforms. This marks a policy reversal for El Salvador, which had previously championed bitcoin adoption, and could ease investor concerns about fiscal sustainability.