Brazil’s Financial Morning Call for December 17, 2024

INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
As trading begins this Tuesday, investors are poised to interpret a series of critical economic data points both at home and abroad
monetary policy direction
These minutes are crucial for assessing potential interest rate movements, which could impact local bonds, equities, and the real.Overseas,
A strong trade balance could boost confidence in the European economy, potentially influencing global market sentiment.In the United States,
Retail Sales data at 10:30 AM will be closely watched as a key indicator of consumer spending and overall economic vigor
financial markets struggled on Monday, December 16, 2024
The Ibovespa dropped 0.84% to close at 123,560.06 points, extending its decline for the third consecutive session
through intervention
Investors are increasingly wary as the approval of a crucial fiscal package is now anticipated only for the following year.U.S
Markets YesterdayIn the United States, a mixed trading session unfolded ahead of the Federal Reserve meeting later this week
The S-P 500 rose 0.4%, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.3%, and the Nasdaq composite rose 1.2% to a record
Tech stocks led the way, with Broadcom continuing to drive market enthusiasm amid excitement about its artificial-intelligence
offerings.Commodity MarketsOil Prices RetreatOil prices experienced a decline on December 16, following a week of gains
Brent crude oil futures for February 2025 closed at $73.91 per barrel, reflecting a modest increase of 0.78%
West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude for January fell by 0.81%, settling at $70.71 per barrel.The recent downturn in oil prices can be
attributed to weaker-than-expected economic data from China and growing speculation about potential interest rate cuts in the United
Srour, Director of Macroeconomics at UBS Global Wealth Management
Asset SalesFollowing $1.4 billion in asset sales, Ultrapar is undergoing a leadership restructuring to align with its streamlined business
focus
The company has divested from non-core assets and is now concentrating on its core operations, aiming for greater operational efficiency and
budget gaps projected for 2026-2028
Analysts warn that unresolved fiscal imbalances could lead to higher borrowing costs and economic instability
ConcernsCocoa prices have surged to a seven-month high due to global supply concerns, particularly in major producing regions like West
Africa
Wind Surge Anticipated in BrazilPrivate energy players are preparing for a $2 billion investment surge in offshore wind projects as Brazil
nears regulatory approval for this renewable energy source
short-term market direction
Should the minutes reveal a more hawkish stance, it may justify further monetary tightening, potentially straining equities and the real
On the other hand, a dovish tone could offer markets a breather.The Eurozone Trade Balance and U.S
Retail Sales data will also matter, gauging economic activity and influencing global capital flows
As Brazil grapples with fiscal concerns and elevated interest rates, companies that enhance financial stability and pursue strategic moves
may stand out.Monitoring currency swings, commodity fluctuations, and domestic policy signals will remain vital as the week unfolds.Key
(7:00 AM): Indicator of continental economic vigor affecting global risk appetite.U.S
Retail Sales (10:30 AM): A key pulse check on American consumer spending influencing worldwide capital flows.Corporate Adaptations: Ongoing