Financiarización or Financierización? Etymological Clarifications for a Critical Concept in Urban Studies Literature in Hispanic America

Abstract

The article explores the etymological and semantic differences between the terms financiarización and financierización within the context of Hispanic American urban studies literature. Through a critical review, it highlights that ‘financiarización’ is associated with broader economic transformations, while ‘financierización’ emphasizes processes strictly tied to the formal financial system. The discussion underscores how these concepts reflect the dynamics of contemporary capitalism, particularly in the interaction between finance and territory, transforming cities into globalized financial assets. Additionally, cases from Latin America and Europe are analyzed, illustrating how these processes exacerbate urban inequalities and redefine economic and social sectors. Finally, the choice of terms is scrutinized, emphasizing the importance of precise translations that enrich academic discourse.