The slump in the fortunes of OGX and other independent Brazilian oil companies has been one of the most dramatic features of Brazil’s stock market decline. So it might seem like an odd time to highlight the attractions of the oil sector.

Over the last few months as Brazil’s economic recovery has struggled to gain momentum, policymakers have at least been able to rely on the spending power of the consumer. Now it seems that spending is coming under serious pressure.

Economic activity increased 1.2% in December from a year earlier, confirming expectations of a weak rebound.

Inflows topped $5bn in December, supporting our view that corporate investors have not been deterred by weakening growth

Not so long ago, adventurous tourists would only take carefully organised tours of the favelas that are perched in the hills of southern Rio de Janeiro. Now increasing numbers are actually spending their holidays there. 

We identify six tailwinds and three headwinds for Brazil in 2013

Government policy has helped the consumer electronics industry take off but the administration is failing to get its pro-business message across.

Local commentators debate the government’s problematic relations with business.