Strong figures in January have only marginally improved the outlook for manufacturing.

Our survey suggests that retail spending lost a little momentum at the start of the year, but that expectations remain strong. The trend is supported by car sales figures.

November’s weak car sales accentuate the challenges for carmakers. Large players are set for a squeeze, as the market becomes increasingly competitive.

Car sales remained strong in October, rising 23.9% YoY and 17.8% MoM. Nonetheless, the fading effect of government stimulus has led Fenabrave, the car distributors’ federation, to revise down its sales forecast for the year.

Our survey showed a relatively solid performance in September, with more shoppers looking to increase future spending

Short-term losses have not dissuaded the carmaker from launching into Brazil’s entry-level segment.

A survey of dealers across Brazil suggests that the extension of tax breaks will support sales.

A Brazil Confidential survey of car vendors in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo points to a continued recovery in car sales in September, with buyers responding positively to tax concessions.