Macro view
Consumer Survey
Pharma market set for new battles
An ageing population, expanding middle class and changing lifestyles have turned non-prescription (OTC) healthcare into one of Brazil’s fastest-growing consumer sectors.
Generics boost pharmacy margins
Generic drugs are gaining ground in the prescription sector of the market, with the trend benefiting bigger companies.
Infrastructure
Bank venture signals new direction on planning
The formation of the EBP is one of several moves that should pave the way for faster infrastructure development.
Finance
Tax-exempt debentures find local buyers
Infrastructure companies are starting to make use of new funding mechanisms, but we do not see large foreign inflows in the near future.
Bulls and Bears
Currency skirmishes
The Real has reached its lowest level since June, amid growing willingness to intervene.
Agenda: Copom to hold rates into 2013
Elsewhere in Brasília, bids for key infrastructure projects are due.
Guest Column
Why Starbucks costs more in São Paulo
Brazil’s high prices aren’t just a result of spiralling costs – they are a way for brands to distinguish themselves, says Rodrigo Moita of Insper business school.
Best of local comment
Opening the borders
Local commentators debate the government's initiative to attract foreign workers.
Uncertainty provides fuel for the pessimists
Forecasters are revising their expectations for 2013, leading commentators to question the wisdom of the government's aggressive approach to electricity concession renewals.
Latest report
09 May 2013
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