Brasil
September 5th, 2025

1. Central Bank rejects deal between BRB and Master
The Central Bank of Brazil (BC) has denied the acquisition of part of Banco Master by BRB (Banco de Brasília), a decision that shakes the financial market and leaves Master’s future uncertain. The ruling halts the share purchase agreement signed in March, which initially involved R$ 50 billion in assets while excluding R$ 23 billion in low-liquidity securities, considered problematic. According to experts, the BC applied technical criteria, with governance being one of the main factors. Banco Master’s financial operations were seen as overly aggressive by the market.
Known for its exponential growth through the issuance of high-rate CDBs guaranteed by the Credit Guarantee Fund (FGC), Master invested heavily in high-risk, low-liquidity assets, placing the bank in a fragile position. The BC’s decision may pave the way for intervention in the institution, enabling the activation of protection mechanisms via the FGC. Both BRB and Master state they are awaiting the reasoning behind the decision in order to assess their next steps, including the possibility of filing an appeal with the monetary authority.
Valor Econômico: BC rejeita acordo com BRB, e futuro do Master é incerto
UOL: Entenda por que o BC rejeitou compra do Banco Master pelo BRB
2. GDP grows 0.4% in second quarter
Brazil’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew 0.4% in the second quarter of 2025, reaching R$ 2.9 trillion, according to data released by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistic (IBGE). The result was in line with market expectations, which projected growth between 0.14% and 0.5%. Over the past four quarters, Brazil’s GDP rose 3.2%, totaling R$ 3.2 trillion during the period.
Compared to the first quarter of 2025, when growth stood at 1.3%, the pace slowed. Nonetheless, the 12-month accumulated performance positions Brazil positively on the international stage. The Brazilian economy recorded the sixth-highest growth among G20 countries. The combination of quarterly expansion and the strong G20 ranking suggests that economic policies and market dynamics are supporting consistent growth, despite global challenges. Expectations now turn to whether this pace can be sustained.
BBC: PIB do Brasil cresce 0,4% no 2º trimestre; veja quanto outras grandes economias cresceram
Agência Brasil: Em 12 meses, economia brasileira acumula 6º maior crescimento do G20
3. BNDES and SENAI boost Industry 4.0 with R$ 56 million
The Brazilian Development Bank (BNDES) and the National Service for Industrial Training (SENAI) have signed an agreement to allocate R$ 56 million to Brazilian companies, aiming to modernize and accelerate the transition toward Industry 4.0. The goal is to enhance competitiveness and productivity in the country’s industrial sector. Funds will be directed to projects focused on digitalization, automation, and the adoption of advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, the Internet of Things, and Big Data.
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will be prioritized in accessing these resources, in an effort to democratize technology adoption and reduce the digital gap. The investment is non-reimbursable, meaning it does not represent a loan. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to prepare Brazilian industry for the challenges and opportunities of the fourth industrial revolution. BNDES will provide financial backing, while SENAI will deliver technical support and training, ensuring that companies not only receive the funds but also acquire the know-how to apply them effectively. The program is expected to generate a significant positive impact on the economy and promote job creation.
Agência Brasil: BNDES e Senai vão repassar R$ 56 milhões para a indústria 4.0
4. Government releases R$ 30 billion in extra credit for Brazil sovereign plan
The federal government has approved an extraordinary credit line of R$ 30 billion to finance the Brazil Sovereign Plan. The measure aims to boost strategic projects and investments in priority areas for national development. The plan focuses on key sectors such as infrastructure, energy, technology, and food security, with the goal of strengthening the country’s economic autonomy and reducing external dependencies. The additional funds will help accelerate projects and initiatives that were either behind schedule or in need of extra financial support.
The release of credit underscores the government’s priority to stimulate economic growth and create jobs, particularly in a post-crisis recovery scenario. The expectation is that direct investment in these strategic areas will have a multiplier effect on the economy, benefiting various production chains and regions across Brazil. The measure is seen as an important step toward revitalizing both public and private investment.
Agência Brasil: Governo abre crédito extra de R$ 30 bilhões para Plano Brasil Soberano
5. BNDES aims to mobilize R$ 18 billion in sustainable Investments
BNDES has launched a call for proposals to support investment funds focused on sustainable solutions, through which it expects to mobilize up to R$ 18 billion. The goal is to boost projects and companies in key areas such as energy transition, decarbonization, reforestation, and the circular economy. The program foresees support for two types of funds: equity participation in companies and credit for financing.
According to BNDES president Aloizio Mercadante, this is the largest public call for funds in the bank’s history and demonstrates alignment with strategies to combat the climate crisis. Acting as an anchor investor, the bank aims to encourage private sector participation in strategic sectors tied to Brazil’s sustainable development agenda.
Folha de S. Paulo: BNDES anuncia até R$ 5 bilhões para fundos de investimento em soluções sustentáveis