Mr Lagos stands broadly for economic continuity (though with more social spending), but backs constitutional reform.

ECONOMIST: The politics of Pinochet

Above all, Brazil's strength is a democracy that has yielded broad political continuity and economic stability.

ECONOMIST: The B in BRICS

Mr Lavagna's presence points to continuity in economic policy, even if some of Mr Kirchner's recent statements have rattled the financial markets.

ECONOMIST: Continuity amid hints of change

Other appointments signalled continuity in financial and economic policy.

BBC: China People's Congress approves new cabinet

That move was aimed at maintaining the continuity of Brazil's economic development which was pretty much based on the strong role and cooperation of the business community.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: A closer look at Brazil's foreign policy

The economic toll has been exacerbated by a lack of potential for continuity: 70% of single-person businesses reported having no one in place to take over in the event of illness.

ECONOMIST: A look at noteworthy articles from business journals

That continuity either means that it was a robust strategy that has weathered the enormous economic changes since then, or it's so bland that it doesn't much matter what the economy's doing.

BBC: Fertilizing Scottish growth