IEP poll shows Castillo's lead over Fujimori narrowing to 6.2 points

Narrowing gap suggests momentum shift favoring Fujimori (right-wing, pro-business) over Castillo (left-wing, socialist). Fujimori's strength in upper socioeconomic sectors (A/B: 51.4%) contrasts with Castillo's rural base (D/E: 44.3%). A Fujimori victory would align Peru closer to regional conservative governments; Castillo would strengthen leftist bloc with Bolivia, Venezuela.

Echoes 1990 Fujimori-Vargas Llosa runoff where underdog Fujimori surged late; also reflects broader Latin American polarization between populist-left and neoliberal-right movements (2000s-2020s).

Narrowing election margins increase economic uncertainty, potentially causing consumer hesitation on major purchases and investment decisions. Divergent policy platforms between candidates (Castillo's left-wing agenda vs. Fujimori's market-oriented approach) create household planning difficulties regarding inflation expectations, employment, and purchasing power.

Significant policy divergence between candidates creates regulatory uncertainty. A Castillo victory could trigger concerns about resource nationalization, fiscal spending increases, and institutional changes. A Fujimori victory may face legitimacy challenges given her family's judicial history. Either outcome requires market stabilization measures and clear economic policy communication to restore investor and consumer confidence.