Brazil Property

Property in Sao Paulo exclusive area could increase 25% per year

2008-05-08T07:51:00.000-07:00

From only £ 61000 You can own property in the most prestigious part of Sao Paulo, with the predicted gains of up to 25% per year and 12% rental return

As the name suggests, top Alameda Morumbi development is situated in the trendy district of Morumbi, where some real estate agents are predicting prices rise by up to 25% in 2008. Investors can reserve their property from around 1800 £.

New Skys partner manager Kristina Hrman said: "With the developer forecast rental returns from nine to twelve percent, it is also worth considering for buy-to-let".

It contains a wealth of sports and leisure facilities, like a solarium; 25metre pool; wet residential area; gym; SpA; beauty centre, sports fields, children's playgrounds; boxes; skating and rollerblading areas, restaurant, cinema, bowling, art studio and even a circus training.

The large two-to four-bedroom apartments, from 95-124 square meters, contained en-suite master bedroom, balcony and two parking spaces. The development, designed by leading architects and Marcio Curi Azeveo Antunes, consists of two 28-storey towers with eight rooms per floor, and he is in beautiful gardens of Benedito Abbud.

Morumbi is one of the richest areas of Sao Paulo and contains beautiful gardens and parks, but it is also only 15 minutes from the city centre and within reach of the recently opened Guarulhos airport. Designer shops, restaurants and bars, five-star hotels and exclusive art galleries were all moved into the area. It is also the largest economic center in Brazil

San Paulo is a great football center and plays a major role when Brazil hosted the World Cup 2014.

Natal Ocean Club - A designer collection

2008-05-05T05:38:00.000-07:00

For investments in emerging markets, 'cheap' can really happy. Low rates entry of tens of thousands of euros can draw good returns and give you a pretty decent holiday bolt hole to boot. On the flip side "cheap" can also mean "you get what you pay for 'while property with a slightly higher price day," priceless "for long-term investment returns. Often in the emerging market sector really sensational, architecturally inspiring resorts with five-star services are scarce. If your budget and your wishes stretch a little higher than 'cheap', Brazil Natal's Ocean Club is carving its own niche decadent overseas property investment.

In addition, the latest private Natal holiday resort directly on the beach, Natal Ocean Club includes 30 hectares of landscaped gardens paradise complete with 300-meter private beach, the setting for a limited number of two bedrooms and two bathrooms dune beach just 19 residences plus inspiring signature Beach Villas. Apart from David Beckham's new soccer academy and within the reach of two standard championship golf courses, this attitude to the northeast of Brazil sought-after address.

The Ocean Club itself offers all manner of facilities and services, including several signature restaurants, state-of-the-art business center, sports club championship with tennis courts and phase two for a 7000 m ² Sky Spa & Fitness Center with sauna glass walled framing Atlantic views and daily yoga, aerobics and Pilates classes, all with a view to a Zen-inspired oversized lagoon pool. The residents can while away lazy hours swinging in hammocks or lounging on the day plump beds hidden throughout the city. A small bridge connects the city to a sandy beach with beach club of low-rise coral-colored cliffs.

Native or internationally renowned Brazilian architect David Bastos has merged wood with indigenous marble and granite to a unique taste to the town. The dune beach and residences are on three floors in small blocks of nine units and each has a spacious living space 85m ². Decked out in designer fittings and equipment of the residences are full of rich special features stainless steel rainshowers in the master bathroom and European-style coffee machines in the kitchens to high-speed Internet and satellite TV are waiting to see a couple of plasma screens.

Stepping up a gear, spread over 305m ² with four bedrooms, complete with maids quarter, the signature afford Beach Villas every imaginable luxury. The villas architecture pays respect to space and privacy with large central living-dining area accented by polished wood floors and huge wooden shutters lead to radical Sunset decks. Al fresco dining is a perfect year-round climate and private infinity pools give way too fat Atlantic views. Turnkey delivered, assembled and set up to the last soft bath towel, the signature Beach Villas are also some seriously upscale touches. Find your favorite CD to play and your refrigerator full on arrival that your private House manager to assist you in all matters and enjoy the benefits of your personal Fischer, on the Atlantic and picking fresh lobsters, crabs and oysters to satisfy your whims. An upgraded entertainment package is also an option with satellite channels on plasma TV, Wi-Fi, DVD and an integral sound system smart-wired throughout the home.

Natal's brand new International Airport planned opening 2010 is a mere 25-minute car ride away via free four-wheel drive transfer or a quick 10-minute helicopter ride away, a service for all Natal Ocean Club guests - or maybe you 'd rather the Charter of Natal Ocean Yacht Club?

Fully furnished and equipped Prices start at GBP 118000 Dune Residences, for 138000GBP Beach Residence and the four bedrooms signature Beach Villas starting 588000 GBP. A leading five-star hotel chain is known, the administration of the entire resort complete with rental system.

Payment terms - 5% reservation, 10% private purchase agreement, 15% in skeletal build and 20% in the roof with the remaining 50% payable upon completion. All of them work full-completion guarantees. Completion is scheduled for November 2009 with the place fully operational by March 2010.

Built very narrow house in the world

2008-05-02T03:39:00.001-07:00

In a small town with the unusual name of Madre de Deus in the Brazilian state of Bahia is perhaps the most narrow residential building in the world. The house, the width of the facade which is only 110 cm, the family lives of seven people and a dog. As reported by Membrana.ru, many tourists come to town to look at the house № 74 on Rua do Barbeyrinyu.

The landlady at home - 43 - Summer Elenita Keyrush Grave Minho - formerly lived with his family in an ordinary house. One day she conceived added to the house pantry on a small strip of land nearby. When the pantry was built, the owners asked workers to erect the second floor above it. At one point, the family realized that next to their old house has almost a full new. They came to the idea to relocate to a narrow house, and surrender your old house for rent, increasing thus their income.

Above failed storeroom was built third floor and soon the family moved into their new home, the narrowest part of which just over meters in width, and the widest (the one where the kitchen) - slightly more than two. The height of the home - 10 meters. Three floors house occupy two rooms, kitchen, three corridor and glass veranda. Furniture, however, had to be dismounted to carry in inside, but all were difficult to place in the home refrigerator, tells Elenita.

An unusual house aroused the interest of professional architects - they specifically came to look at self-made structure, but it did not find any technical mistakes endangering the safety of residents. Now plans to open house on the first floor of any institution for tourists. Perhaps this will cafe. Elenita assures that with this narrow she will never tear away not for any money.

Francis Ford Coppola will build a resort in Brazil

2008-05-02T03:38:00.001-07:00

Francis Ford Coppola seeking a plot of land in Brazil for the construction of tourist kurorta.S this end, the famous film director, arrived in Floriannopolis, located on the coast about 500 kilometers from Sao Paulo.

Perhaps the most famous films Coppola, five times ranch Oscar statuettes are "The Godfather" and "Apocalypse Now. In October 2007, at the second Rome Film Festival will premiere the film "Youth without Youth" , first shot by the director after a decade break.

Along with its directors of Coppola busy and the hotel business. He owned six hotels located in Central America, including Belize and Guatemala. In March this year, the director had planned to open a small boutique hotel in Buenos Aires.

In Brazil put up for sale rotating flats

2008-05-01T03:07:00.000-07:00

In the Brazilian city of Curitiba built residential building, 11 floors-sections which can rotate around its axis, making a complete turnover of 360 degrees. According to the company-builder, it is the only building in the world, where Brazil apartments (each occupies a floor) able to move clockwise as well as against it independently of each other.

Panoramic rotation in the high-tech home run voice command and a full traffic area of 300 square meters of apartments requires about 1 hour. Implementing such a unique project demanded 10 years of work, builders and architects. The first sale began in mid-December 2004.

The price of apartments is about $ 300,000.

Tropical forests are exhibited for the sale off in Brazil

2008-05-01T03:05:00.000-07:00

Project Cool Earth invites people to buy small plots of tropical forests of Brazil property, to save them from cuttings. The area harvested annually forest area equal to Britain. Purchased Forest will join the special charity fund company Cool Earth. The project created jobs for local people, built schools and hospitals.

Cool Earth hopes to convince the population that the preservation of forests will bring more benefit than logging. 20 kitchen primary forest will cost 35 pounds ($ 64). Cool Earth bought 24 hectares of land near the village in northern Brazil property, where the forest has already been cut three years ago. Earth gave local residents in long-term lease on terms management. At the site were re-planted 40 species of trees and forests of trees will be built schools and hospitals.

Tropical forests in South America is often called "Lungs of planet" - they annually emit into the atmosphere billions of tons of oxygen. Among other things cutting of these forests exacerbates global warming.

Brazil presents investment opportunities

2008-05-01T03:02:00.000-07:00

Brazil's potential as a good invest market has been outlined by a Brazil property developer in the country.

Invest Tur stated that the South American nation has a diverse range of attractions to offer, such as history, good beaches and natural beauty, Market Watch reports.

However, the firm added that since the country is hosting the football World Cup in 2014, it also offers other benefits to investors.

Carlos Novis Guimaraes, chairman of the board at Invest Tur, highlighted the extra investment in infrastructure upgrades as one example, along with a likely increase in tourism.

This should push up demand for rental accommodation in many of Brazilian property's main hotspots, which could enhance its appeal to overseas property investors.

Mr Guimaraes commented: "From the Amazon to tropical forests to colonial history to beaches, it's a myriad of natural and very high-level attractions that have been vastly underdeveloped."

Brazil's government recently revealed that the country's economy expanded by 5.4 per cent last year.

Brazil attracts health tourists

2008-04-30T06:37:00.001-07:00

The growth of medical tourism in Brazil, creating numerous opportunities for foreign investors, property, according to experts.

NuBricks said more and more people are now heading abroad in order to have medical procedures carried out at a reduced price. Web site believes that this could have implications for the Brazilian real estate market, because a larger number of specialists needed to carry out these procedures.

As a result, there is a need for affordable quality housing has increased, while the Government must also invest more money in public services. Web site wrote: "This creates some very lucrative property markets in some regions and caught the eye of numerous international property investors."

The website added that the authorities also to attract more business in Brazil property, which has further pushed the demand for real estate for sale in the country. This happened after company said the South American country continues to enjoy despite the high growth of current credit crunch.

Brazilian investments can be profitable

2008-04-30T06:36:00.001-07:00

People who own property in Brazil property were assured about the country of investment prospects.

According to NuBricks, South America, the nation is likely to experience economic growth of about 4.8 percent this year.

This, despite the current financial problems at the international level, which was concerned about a possible global recession.

Commenting on the current state of the Brazilian market company officials "the party is still continuing."

The website said: "Brazil is a property abroad" hot spots "on the untapped potential, a country which continues to register on radar."

Company spokesperson added that the Government is supporting investment funds, infrastructure improvements in hot spots such as Natal.

This came after UK newspaper The Times said that Latin American countries are well positioned to address current problems in the world economy.

According to the newspaper, Brazil is a very safe investment option, since it is currently the economic growth and political stability.

Brazil's beaches are 'among the world's best'

2008-04-29T04:46:00.000-07:00

Brazil, the beaches are "among the best in the world"

People considering purchase of property in Brazil property would be pleased to hear that the two countries are beaches included in the world top ten, according to the leading lifestyle magazine.

News that Rio de Janeiro in Copacabana and Ipanema beaches were named among the best in the world of beaches on Conde Nast Traveller can raise their profile and increase the number of tourists to Latin America.

The magazine described Copacabana beach, as a "metropolitan beach" and praised him as the fifth best beaches on the planet.

He continued that the beach stretches "along the 4.5 km from Rio de Janeiro in shoreline and is the ideal place to do some serious people watching while tanning."

The magazine praised Ipanema - number eight on its list - as "more stylish and chic [than Copacabana], attracting crowds of the richest urban areas."

Meanwhile, Times columnist wrote last week that rich Britons are moving in on the national coastline.

Brazil's property has never been better to buy

2008-04-29T04:44:00.000-07:00

There has never been a better time to buy property in Brazil, said an investment consultant.

IN2 property investors said that with the real estate market in the traditional "hot spots" second home, like Spain, facing uncertainties, investors should look at real estate in Brazil.

The company statement said that new and experienced investors can take advantage of the country rapidly the number of visitors, with travel expenses to achieve astonishing ? 5 billion last year - more than 14 percent since 2006.

"Brazil is willing to pick up the hot sun and samba to give to their property portfolio.

"At lease yields from four to six per cent, while home price increases of up to 20 percent in some areas last year, the Brazilian property provides an excellent opportunity to see the kind of return on investment was in the Spanish market 20 years ago."

Meanwhile, a study published last month showed that two Brazilian property sites appear in the top ten most looked at TheMoveChannel on the website.

Brazil 'top medical tourist destination'

2008-04-28T04:19:00.000-07:00

Brazil has been named one of the world's largest medical tourist attractions on investment publication.
Second only to Panama, Brazil property surpassed New York-Wire Investor list on the basis of quality and affordability of care, and receptivity to foreign investment.

The magazine said: "Brazil property has become a Mecca for the international cosmetics and plastic surgery.

"Its path to glory in medical tourism began with Ivo Pitanguy, the world-famous plastic surgeon, who opened the clinic in Rio de Janeiro more than 40 years ago."
After the U.S., Brazil plastic surgery-largest market in the world.

It also offers other types of medical tourism and publication said the country largest city, Sao Paulo, has some of the most-equipped hospitals.

Promoting the state in top tourist spot may be good news for those thinking of buying real estate in Brazil property, as medical tourists may need to rent accommodation during their stay.

Jim O'Neill of Goldman Sachs predicts Brazil property to become one of the most dominant economies in the future.

Brazil’s Property Market Gets a Massive Boost

2008-04-24T06:06:00.000-07:00

In the Reuters Real Estate Summit in New York last month, Brazil's property market has a massive strengthening in the form of direct investment and sustained commitment by General Electric Real Estate is one of the world's largest and most diversified commercial real estate investors and a company that real estate investors around the world observe and learn.
GE Real Estate's timing is excellent, because they only purchase to the point where international commercial interest is to intensify investment in Brazil and what's more, their commitment will no doubt attract other investors now at the beginning of the examination of the Brazilian real estate market -- which means that when you ask when the time was on the market, it could be right now…
According to Joseph Parsons, president of North American equity at GE Real Estate, the company provides property in Brazil as "the New Mexico" - that is, a market in which they already have invested hundreds and hundreds of millions of dollars over the last ten Years and where to invest a further $ 400 million in industrial real estate…
Driving the diversification of GE Real Estate's property-investment approach in Brazil are undeniably positive fundamentals such as the fact that Brazil rapidly become a reliable nation with a stable economy in which international investors can rely on. The GDP target is a growth of over 4% this year and foreign direct investment commitment is constantly growing.
As we reported, in Amber Lamb in the past, the Brazilian government focuses heavily on its way, is the nation attractive for investment and to open up the framework for business to compete globally… as a consequence of the dynamics in Brazil are extremely positive and there is a growing prosperity and the creation of a much more significant middle class demographic - that is one of the main indicators that GE Real Estate is known for the search, when picking their real estate investment niche.
If you want to know from the big boys then certainly GE Real Estate is the company to watch - and how can we now see, they are only making a big splash on the Brazilian Real Estate Investment scene - so remember, you hear it here first!

Brazilian real-estate firms "inexpensive"

2008-04-23T08:02:00.000-07:00

Brazilian property stocks have been recommended by a leading global financial institution, taking into account the purchase of real estate in Brazil may be pleased to hear that.

UBS AG dismissed recent concerns - that a possible rise in interest rates could slow demand for housing, saying they were "exaggerated" reports Bloomberg.

The investment company went on to say that Brazilian real estate companies are "cheap" after a sell-off in shares.

Analysts said that investors revenues, as excessive mortgage financing is not directly with Brazil 'selic "interest, and" dramatic improvements "to mortgage terms - such as the extension of its duration - offset higher rates.

Investors buying property in Brazil were advised to focus on the low-income housing market by analysts.

Brazil recently ranked one of the Morgan Stanley Capital International Global Emerging Markets Index, beat China to the world's largest growth market.

Property in Brazil is always in demand by international investors, with high yields when buying attracting a growing number of buyers.

Brazil's Lula pays homage to ex-slaves

2008-04-21T06:06:00.000-07:00

ACCRA, Ghana (AFP) - Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva Sunday paid tribute to former West African slaves who bought their freedom in Brazil and returned home in the 19th Century.

"The families who left .. Bahia and came back to Ghana are a real model for us," said Lula, praising them as "people who were born slaves bought, but their freedom."

"They had everything to surrender, but never had the dream of living with dignity, peace and freedom," he said during a visit to Brazil House, a graceful two-storey building, back to the sea and it is now a monument to returning ex - slaves.

"That is his (Lula). This is one of his five projects for Ghana - the restoration of the birthplace of Tabon people," the Brazilian Ambassador to Ghana, Luis Fernando Serra, told AFP.

Tabon is the name given to the returnees in Ghana. Elsewhere on the West African coast, they were known as "agudas.

"The Tabon community is the oldest link between us in Brazil, the country that they left in the nineteenth century, and Ghana, the land that they have accepted," Lula said after the welcome by the elaborately dressed commander in chief of the Tabon , Azumah Nelson V.

The local community, from a dancer with waist-long dreadlocks, tattooed legs and white plastic sunglasses, staged a frenetic dance in Brazil in front of the house during the ceremony.

During the 19th Century, many Africans and their children free to leave Brazil, to return to West Africa. This increased after 1835 with the deportation of the large number of slaves who were involved in an attempted uprising in Bahia.

Those who came back were the elite among the slaves in Brazil - they were those who are healthy enough to survive in the harsh conditions that were necessary to attain freedom. She spoke fluent Portuguese and understand the day-to-day with a plantation.

And ironically, when they return to West Africa, according to research by the Rio de Janeiro-Universidad Federal Fluminense, allied themselves with the Brazilian traders were on the coast and in the slave trade.

It was during a visit to Ghana in 2005 approved that Lula turning Brazil into a memorial house.

Recently, the building was, in Jamestown, a low rent of Accra, has been renovated and with the financial support of two Brazilian companies and turned into a memorial-cum-museum.

Lula said he hoped that the restoration would help in the rehabilitation of Jamestown district, an area in which everything takes place in the street - from film screenings to the meals and haircuts.

Rocks on the back of the house leads straight down to the beach. The view across the sea serves as a reminder how the slaves to the left and came back home.

Brazilian economy strong, says finance minister

2008-04-18T08:01:00.001-07:00

Brazilian finance minister Guido Mantega announced yesterday that the South American country's economy is relatively strong.

Perhaps highlighting the potential of the nation as a property investment opportunity, Xinhua reports the government representative as saying the country is on "solid bases".

This comes in spite of the global credit shrinkage, which has been affecting other countries across the world since last summer.

In his speech, Mr Mantega referenced to Brazil's 195 billion USD (96.69 billion GBP) reserves and how there is currently "great trust" in the country's economy.

He also said that Brazil property has been "guarded" from events that have hit other countries.

"All analysts are unanimous in saying that Brazil is a place where things are going well, where companies and banks are solid," the minister is reported as saying.

The Latin Business Chronicle reported this week that real estate in Brazil has shown positive growth over the last seven years, buoyed by a strong economy.

In Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, built a huge Ferris wheel height of 36 meters

2008-04-18T07:59:00.001-07:00

In Rio de Janeiro, on the shores of Guanabara Bay built a huge Ferris wheel of 36 meters in height.

The wheel is one of the largest in the country, with the help of local residents and tourists can now enjoy a panorama of the city with a bird's eye view.

An installation of entertainment lasted two weeks.

Brazil had started preparations for the soccer World Cup, which will take place in 18 cities throughout the country

2008-04-18T07:57:00.000-07:00

Despite the fact that prior to the drawing Cup world cup is still 6 years old, in Brazil property began extensive preparations to one of the most important events in the world of sports. Thus, the biggest stadium of Rio de Janeiro property, which is the residence of the four countries most famous football clubs already closed for repairs prior to the museum in 2014, however, the history of soccer in the territory of the stadium, continues to receive guests. The most precious exhibits here and feel the ball grid, rented from the gate after the Pele scored their anniversary 1000-th goal, and boots, which played Garrincha.

In addition to football glory leader, and Brazil property have known its incredible hospitality and benevolence towards foreign tourists. This can be fully felt, hitting the city of Belo Horizonte, where you will find more than 12000 cafes, bars and restaurants. Incidentally, the local stadium is preparing to receive one of the stages World Cup.

In total, Brazil property proposed for the 18 matches cities, which makes even more imminent event unique and exciting. Now, this is the biggest event in the world not only the largest but also on the territorial scope. As can be seen, Brazilians takes its role in the history of the football world with great seriousness, in an effort to support the reputation of the most loyal fans and the best players.

Brazil is planning to build a "floating" hotels specifically to the FIFA World Cup

2008-04-17T07:56:00.000-07:00

If Brazil becomes eligible for the Soccer World Cup in 2014, the football fans from all over the world will be able to stay in "floating" hotels, Brazilian officials have promised.

Since late last week, there is FIFA delegation, which will hold a meeting with the Brazilian Soccer Confederation, and will visit some cities candidate. The main topics of discussion will be transport, security and the possibility of deploying now because stadiums and transportation infrastructure had severely criticized.

The mayor of Sao Paulo, Brazil's property largest city, assures that the budget funds to improve local transport infrastructure will be available, even if FM-2014 will be held in another location.

It is anticipated that up to Morumbi Stadium fans would get on the subway. If so, can be reached by train to Santos (90 kilometres from Sao Paulo property), where the local moored at the port will be "floating" hotels.

The idea of floating hotels reached up to the north-east. In the states of Ceara, Rio Grande do Norte, Pernambuco and already have a network of such hotels. Now they are going to improve to meet the requirements of foreign tourists.

Sports Department believes that the "floating" and hotels may appear on Amazon property. In infrastructure will be invested 900 million reals (about 450 million dollars).

Total 18 Brazilian cities have offered their stadia for the World Cup. Fifa will visit five of them: Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Belo Horizonte, Brasilia and Porto Allegre.

Indeed, Brazil is the only candidate for the championship, which was rotational necessarily be held in South America, but, nonetheless, it still must be tested for compliance with the standards of FIFA. Venue FM-2014 will be officially announced on October 30, 2007.

Brazil boasts 23 of Latin America's top 50 companies

2008-04-17T07:55:00.000-07:00

Brazil property boasts 23 of Latin America's 50 biggest companies, and four of the top ten are headquartered in the country, a study by consulting firm Economatica said Tuesday.

Total revenues of the 23 Brazilian property companies in the ranking equal to 299.5 billion U.S. dollars, up 39.6 per cent from the study held in 2006, according to Economatica.

The ranking also involves 16 Mexican companies (decrease from 19 in 2006), six Chilean companies and three Argentine companies.

In terms of revenue, the oil and gas sector was the major segment on the list, with a total worth of 131.5 billion dollars, followed by the telecommunications sector, with 87.8 billion dollars.

The three biggest Latin American companies in terms of revenue were Petrobras (oil and gas, Brazil), with 96.3 billion dollars; Vale (mining, Brazil property), with 36.56 billion dollars; and America Movil (telecom, Mexico), with 28.54 billion dollars.

The top ten also included Brazil's steel producer Gerdau, energy supplier Eletrobras, as well as Mexico's cement maker Cemex, retailer Wal Mart Mexico, beverage maker Femsa, oil and gas company Copec and telecommunications company Telmex.

Accor has developed its network of hotels in Brazil

2008-04-17T07:54:00.000-07:00

The company Accor announced the signing of an agreement with Walter Torre (one of Brazil's largest investors in real estate) on the construction by 2010, 20 hotel Ibis and Formule 1 in Brazil.

The project worth 200 million euros involves the creation of about 5000 hotel rooms.

Accor is present in the Brazilian market since 1976 and is a leader in cost hotels. There are in Brazil 45 in 7000 Ibis hotel rooms now days. After the opening of the first hotel in Sao Paulo in 1999, Ibis started to open hotels in other cities in the country. Under the new accord, 13 Ibis hotels will appear in 10 cities in the country, but mainly in Rio de Janeiro, Brasilia and Sao Paulo.

In 2001, in Sao Paulo property, opened the first hotel on 300 Formule 1 rooms. Today, the network has 7 large hotel rooms for 2000. The new agreement will further 7 hotel brand, including in Porto Alegre.

Brazil discovers World's 3rd-largest oil and gas reserves

2008-04-16T08:36:00.000-07:00

Brazil's state-owned Petrobras, BG Group and Repsol have discovered what could be the world's third-largest oil and gas reserves, Haroldo Lima, director of the National Oil and Gas Agency (ANP), which regulates the sector in the country, said on Monday.

The seminar, at Getulio Vargas Foundation in Rio de Janeiro, Lima stressed that the information was not released "officially" yet.

He added that, if confirmed, in the field, with an estimated volume of 33 billion barrels, in the deep waters in the Santos Basin, in south-eastern Brazil property, will be the world's largest oil and gas discoveries in the last 30 years.

According to the director of ANP, in the field, temporarily named "Sugar Loaf", in connection with the Rio landmark, will be five times greater than the Tupi, the giant field discovered in November 2007.

Tupi is known as the largest oil and gas reserve ever found in Brazil property, bearing an estimated volume of 5-8 billion barrels of light oil.

Petrobras' press office has not confirmed the discovery yet, but informed that the Sugar Loaf field is located in block BMS-9 of the Santos Basin, west of the BMS-11, where Tupi was discovered.

ANP added that the field could not be classified as an "exploitation field" because it has not been declared commercially useful. The first trace of the existence of oil and gas in the field, located in the pre-salt layer, was found in August 2007, but members of the consortium have not issued any prospects of its total volume so far.

The new field is also close to block BMS-24, where Petrobras voiced at the beginning of this year to have discovered Brazil's largest natural gas reserve, in the Jupiter field.

SCOR gets admitted status in Brazil

2008-04-16T07:53:00.000-07:00

SCOR, based in Paris, said in a recent report he is going to add a victim, surety, aviation and marine reinsurance in its current victims optional, property treaty, agriculture and engineering reinsurance in Brazil property.

As part of its expansion in Latin America, the reinsurer also completing the formalities for SCOR Global USA life again Insurance Co to operate as an insurer admitted in Brazil.

Amazon Ghost Highway to Be Brought Back to Life

2008-04-15T04:57:00.000-07:00

BR-319, a road blazed 35 years ago through the heart of the Amazon jungle and now impassable due to neglect, has sparked a new battle between environmentalists and the Brazilian property authorities, who have decided to rebuild it.

Officials defend economic integration in the central Amazon and in the south central part of Brazil, that will bring benefits to the local population. But environmentalists say reparations roads lead to further deforestation and new waves of migration towards the northern city of Manaos, which is already suffering from a serious urban problems and conflicts due to the increase in the surrounding lands.

The dispute was caused by the proposal to replace the highway to the railroad, which cost-effectiveness studies had been carried out and that will mean much less deforestation, according to Virgilio Viana, which outlines alternative as secretary of the environment and sustainable development in the northwestern state of Amazonas , a post he resigned March 3, the head of the Fund's sustainable Amazon.

In 885 - km road Porto Velho, capital of Rondonia state on the border with Bolivia, from Manaos, capital of Amazonas, the Brazilian property state with the most vast stretches of virgin jungle.

The restoration of road and should be completed by 2011, said the Ministry of Transport, whose chief, Alfredo Nascimento, Manaos was mayor from 1997 to 2004. The estimated cost is 700 million reals (about $ 400 million).

Railroad, in contrast, would cost three times as much, but would avoid the emission of gases responsible for climate change by reducing deforestation, which would allow Brazil property to receive abundant carbon credits on the international market, Viana told Tierramérica.
In deforestation projected as a result of rebuilt highway reaches 168000 square kilometers by 2050, an area comparable to the size of neighboring Uruguay, according to the study, the Brazilian team led by Britaldo Soares of the Federal University of Minas Gerais.

Brazil becomes number 1 market in EU among Latin American countries

2008-04-09T06:20:00.000-07:00

According to a Latin Business Chronicle analysis of 2007 trade data from Eurostat, Brazil has replaced Mexico as the European Union's top market in Latin America. Meanwhile Latinamerica trade with the European Union continues to soar at faster rate than with the United States, the analysis shows.

"That's not surprising since the European economies keep growing, while the United States is slowing down," says Isaac Cohen, president of US-based consultancy Inverway and a former director of the Washington office of the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (CEPAL).

EU trade with Latin America increased by 11.5% in 2007 to record of 160 billion euros equivalent to 245 billion US dollars. EU exports to Latin America top 71.4 billion euros, up 12.8%, while EU imports from Latin America grew by 10.5% to 88.6 billion euros.

That means Latin America trade with the EU is growing nearly twice as much as its trade with the United States, which only grew by 6.2% last year.

EU also continues to have a much smaller trade deficit with Latin America than the United States: last year it reached 17.3 billion euros (US$ 26.5 billion), up 1.7% from 2006. By comparison, the US deficit reached US$ 100.5 billion. However, the EU still lags the US in terms of total trade with Latin America.

Last year's EU trade with the region was less than half of U.S.-Latin America trade.

Sao Paulo considered a good investment option

2008-04-09T06:19:00.000-07:00

Sao Paulo, the largest city in Brazil, good enough to become a country, is also ranked as one among the largest 50 in the world. The property market in Brazil is the main gearing force behind its foreign investment.

According to a report conducted by the Federation of Commerce in the State of Sao Paulo, honoring the rating of the city as the largest in South America, the report outlines the importance of the city of Sao Paulo throughout the world.

The Economic Advisor at Fecomercio, Julia Zimenes, said, "It is necessary to consider the difference between the countries. When a city with 11 million inhabitants in a developing country, is compared to a small country such as New Zealand, with smaller population (4 million) it appears more difficult. However, it is really to show the splendor of the city.

Making use of the GDP in dollars is a way of providing this grandeur empirically."

Brazil has evolved as a new real estate market for investors, and Sao Paulo, was not left behind. All through the region, there is a huge growth in value terms, except for the tourist market here. Beachfront properties remain in high demand, but on the housing markets in cities like Sao Paulo are still appreciated by foreign investors.

Brazilian real estate market is hard to surpass

2008-04-09T06:17:00.000-07:00

An industry expert said that in the real estate market in Brazil, "it is difficult to surpass."

Jamie Strong property rights expert, speaking in the media about the emerging market of real estate in Brazil, said: "The one thing that would really help Brazil, where mortgages are available to foreigners. This will be a truly open market."

Jamie also appreciates the range of equipment available in Brazil, and the ease with which the property could be purchased in the Latin American nation.

President of the Association for the Brazil real estate and tourism development in the north-eastern Brazil (Adit), Felipe Cavalcanti shows impressive features of the country to potential investors. About 97 per cent of international tourists who visited Brazil back, and stresses at work that makes Adit in the direction of strengthening ties with the business community in the area. It also provides a "one-stop shop for foreign investors who can purchase properties to" share of the cost "in Brazil.

According to Felipe, the capital of the real estate in the north-eastern Brazil, is expected to pick up by 30 percent. Brazilian Institute of Tourism reported that tourism in Brazil is growing at a rate 7.2 per cent.

Brazil is one of the top five Latin American property markets

2008-04-08T06:16:00.000-07:00

In addition to the advantages for attracting tourists with its sun and sand, Brazil also attracts tourists with its part of an active public policy. Brazil, as one of the top five Latin American properties worth investing as offers many opportunities for increased economic growth and the value of property. There are many advantages that Brazil offers to encourage such investment.

The Brazilian Government is strongly encouraging foreign investors to develop most underdeveloped and highly desired locations such as beach resorts in Brazil. Moreover, the surplus of housing in Brazil, pointing to the flourishing economy, property investments will be strong growth.

Investors are of the opinion that Brazilian real estate market has plenty to offer for all kinds of investors. There is a sure possibility of growth for the next five to seven years, according to The Economist magazine.

During the past several years, Brazilian citizens have seen a transformation taking place in terms of economy and credit markets. More number of people are in a position to acquire affordable housing. The Brazil properties are very valuable and desirable to the investors with several outstanding developments. Apart from this, the Brazil housing market has also received a support, with more number of people being qualified for credit.

According to The Economist, Brazil is a safe investment option, when it comes to property, heading forward into a global economy slowdown. International companies are investing millions of dollars in most areas, to help fund the growth in Brazil.

Brazil's strong economic programs improve local affordability and drive employment potential for Brazilian property

2008-04-08T06:15:00.000-07:00

In recent statistics from the CIA World Factbook, the Brazilian property unemployment is around about 9%. Currently with the government target of action programmes, the figures much lower. The Government even more encouraging for the promotion of foreign investment and improving tourism numbers. It is expected to create more than a million new jobs in Brazil, reducing unemployment further.

This attention from the Brazil property state in order to attract investment, the expansion of tourism and reduce unemployment increase investor confidence in the Brazilian market, and its wealth and employment, so that there is a low but steady increase in demand for real estate by the local population. This is a positive sign for the long-term health of the Brazil property market, and it is a good fundamental that the investor should keep in mind.

Brazil's low cost of living draws huge demand from investors, expatriates, and tourists

2008-04-08T06:14:00.000-07:00

Brazilian cost of living is comparatively 20 percent lower than that of UK, which means that British expatriates and tourists would find Brazil as a better deal for their pounds buy, than their own fatherland. This seems more appealing to investors who desire to buy in markets where people not only like to visit, but can also afford a vacation, or even prefer to live as a retiree.

Booming Economy of Brazil appears attractive to real estate investors

2008-04-07T06:12:00.001-07:00

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office voiced that the Brazilian economy is the tenth largest in the world, with 'Real' as its currency. The gross domestic product of Brazil is R$ 2322 billion last year. The annual growth rate was 3.72% in 2007, with the rate of inflation averaging at nearly 3.1%, making the nation more economically stable and developing in a sustainable way.

The Economy of Brazil is strongly geared by industries such as mining, agriculture, petrochemicals, wood products, electronics, tourism and its trading partners on the worldwide front include major players such as the UK, America, France, China, Japan, Germany and Argentina. The strong and increasing economy and overall accepted economic stability in the global market, further ensures that the market remains an attractive option to property investors seeking long term commitment.

Brazil: a country to watch

2008-04-07T06:12:00.000-07:00

Improving the economic stability of Brazil made it one of the most sought after place for investors who are seeking business opportunities in developing countries. Investment trends are turn-around funds are transferred from developed countries to emerging markets in Asia and South America.

In the case of Brazil, an important factor is the growth of the tourism market, which brings a steady flow of cash in the country. Local and foreign tourism, exports and other related businesses, as well as prudent fiscal policies have led to an improvement of its economic situation, which as of September 2007 increased by 5,2 percent. This difference creates a noticeable influx of top notches of investment packages especially in the field of real estate.

The cost of real estate in South America with Brazil gradually rise to the forefront. Projected revenue for the rental of a year seems to be about nine per cent a year. This forecast was still believes, as in 2008, based on studies made by economic experts. This is further strengthened with the influx of mutual funds from Europe to countries like Brazil.

The world economy may be in disturbances, but in developing countries like Brazil is sharply in the lead. It proved to be a prosperous economy and its great potential for investment. Out of the past are the days when investment opportunities can be found only in the First World. The focus is now on the markets of countries that are considered to be very promising in terms of investment opportunities, and in South America, all eyes in Brazil.

New "hot spots" of real estate will be where there are the budget airlines

2008-04-07T06:10:00.000-07:00

"Budget" airlines will be one of the best indicators of where in the next few years will be "hot spots" of real estate.

Nevertheless, cheap air travel as such will not be enough to turn the economy growing any country to the main destination for tourists and investors in real estate.

According to Justin Figginsa from Rightmove Overseas real estate company, it is necessary to pay attention to the growth of tourism as well as for investments in infrastructure.

Euro-Med tourism ministers call for promotion of this sector

2008-04-04T08:39:00.002-07:00

The first Euro-Med Ministerial Conference on Tourism (April 2-3), on Thursday called for a strengthening of the contribution of tourism in the Euromed partnership.

In the 39 participating ministers called for increased economic cooperation between Mediterranean countries, which stressed the importance of preventing and reducing the negative impacts of urbanization and sustainable use of land and Morocco property for the construction of tourism infrastructure.

They also stressed the importance of strengthening security in the region, where rising vulnerability of natural and man-made disasters can seriously affect economic development. "

The ministers agreed on the importance of strengthening the identification of Morocco property investment opportunities, as well as the promotion of joint ventures in the field of tourism, reaffirming the central role of the private sector in this area.

Stressing the importance of the adoption of common criteria for the classification of hotels in the Euro-Mediterranean region, they called for the continuation of negotiations to further liberalize air transport between the European Union (EU) as a tool for the development of tourism markets, in accordance with internationally recognised good practice.

Touching on the importance of Mediterranean partnership in the industry, Minister of Tourism of Morocco property, Mohamed Boussaid, requires a comprehensive regional approach Mediterranean with a view to establishing a genuine partnership in the tourism sector. He also stressed that the goal can be achieved through constructive dialogue and cooperation between countries of the region.

Echoing Mr. Boussaid, the European Commissioner responsible fisheries and Maritime Affairs Joe Borg, the EU expressed their determination to support the total investment of tourism in the Mediterranean region, in order to promote sustainable tourism development.

Tourism can play a role in creating jobs and developing the region's economy by encouraging private sector development and promotion of this sector, he concluded.

Morocco, Slovenia sign declaration to build Euro-Mediterranean University

2008-04-04T08:39:00.001-07:00

Morocco and Slovenia singed, on Thursday, a joint declaration to set up a euro-Mediterranean university in Piran (Slovenia).

This declaration, signed by Moroccan property minister of education, Ahmed Akhchichine and Slovenian minister of economy, Andrej Vizjak, aims at contributing to better mutual understanding and reinforcing Moroccan-Slovenian relations.

The two countries expressed a property will to boost further cooperation and back the Slovenian initiative to set up this university, stressing that the latter is expected to play a central role within the current university network in the Mediterranean basin.

The University includes study programs focused on the current needs of Mediterranean tourism, and has all the assets to be a hub for students, researchers, and professors, and to inform Europe about the Arab culture and Arabic language.

This project also focuses on issues raised by the Barcelona process mainly to strengthen relations among the region's universities at the academic and research levels, and lays the bases for cooperation and exchange of expertise in those fields among the countries concerned by the process

Morocco in top ten destinations considered by foreign investors, Global Edge

2008-04-04T08:38:00.001-07:00

Morocco has become one of the most appealing target to real estate promoters due to the major development projects set up since 2001, British "Global edge" said on Thursday.

The company, which offers counseling to international real estate investors, underlined that since 2001, Morocco property witnessed a huge leap in the field of tourism.

Since the launch of the Azur plan (aimed at the establishment of six new sea resorts in the country) and Vision 2010 (aimed at attracting ten million tourists by 2010), the major real estate and infrastructure projects have been launched, mainly expansion of airports, the implementation of the open policy Sky, the same source added, recalling that many low-cost airlines such as EasyJet and Rayanair decided to act in Morocco property.

Increased frequency in the direction of the fight against Morocco from many European countries have made a lot of the Moroccan cities of Casablanca, Fez and Marrakesh easier to reach for foreigners.

According to a survey made by the company in the most favorable places for people looking for secondary residence abroad, Morocco property included among the ten largest and considered the desired direction

Tree wants to double number of hotels by 2010

2008-04-03T01:36:00.000-07:00

The network Blue Tree, now owner of 25 hotels in Brazil propertyand Argentina, plans double in size by 2010, half the growth of the country's economy, and will expand to other South American nations like Chile and Peru, told Reuters the chairman of the company, Chieko Aoki.

According to her, this expansion is also due to the lack of beds in large metropolitan regions and the need for investment in hotels facing business in midsize cities, such as Sao Jose dos Campos, where is the factory of Embraer, or Rio Verde (GO), region of agribusiness.

By 2010 will be at least 24 more hotels, with four in Brazil property, and 20 divided between Argentina, Chile and Peru, most of them more as a model of tourism that applied in most enterprises of the Blue Tree in Brazil property, said the executive.

This plan should go ahead, according to her, despite the North American real estate crisis, which also affects foreign investors, in particular Portuguese and Spanish, which help sustain the growth of the network of four-star hotels.

"Brazil property still needs to market for hotels business, this is the greatest need ... In San Francisco already lacking hotels and if that does not change here five years will miss place in the city. Must expand even," said Aoki, 59 , in an interview to Reuters in a network of hotels, in São Paulo.

Known as the hotel queen in the country, a Japanese-Brazilian born in Fukuoka says that the industry is entering a new time, in which the industrial districts that accelerate the economy call the accommodations that it provides.

Productivity to maintain growth

2008-04-02T08:15:00.001-07:00

Brazil's economy can maintain sustainable growth and controlled inflation through growing investment and productivity, Brazilian Finance Minister Guido Mantega said Tuesday.

Mantega said that contrary to the forecasts of many market analysts, there was little danger that increased domestic demand would provoke increased inflation.

"Real wages can grow without inflation as long as productivity is equal to or greater than the growth in wages, and this is what is happening," he said, during a presentation at a meeting of the government's council for social and economic development.

Mantega noted that with the aid of incoming investment, productivity in Brazil property has been growing at a rate of 4%.

He said that the inflation that has occurred recently in the local economy due to external factors such as increased raw material prices and higher costs of food products.

"Our situation is comfortable," he said. "We must not fear that there is an increase in inflation."

Brazil government set annual targets for the IPCA consumer price index inflation at 4.5%.

According to the central bank market survey released this week, IPCA inflation seen the end of 2008, 4.5%, and slowing to 4.3% in 2009.

Mantega said the credit crisis in the United States was "significant". He affirmed that Brazil's economy remains in a position to grow at a rate of more than 5% a year. Brazil's property economy grew by 5.4% in 2007, according to the country IBGE statistics institute.

Mantega on Tuesday said that the government is focusing its efforts on correcting the policy of "small deviation" in the country's balance of payments as a result of rapid growth and investment.

Last month, the government announced measures to strong inflows of portfolio investments in the country's high-yielding fixed-income securities as a way to limit the value of the local currency, the real. Brazil property, the positive trade balance has declined in the last year, along with the 17% appreciation of the currency.

São Paulo, Brazil, the "Behavioral H2R Flash" study

2008-04-02T08:15:00.000-07:00

The dream of buying a house is in the plans of the residents of São Paulo property in 2008. Last year, few managed to reach this objective. But, when talking about redoing and building, the residents of São Paulo property over the age of 26, in the upper classes, are those who say that they redid their home somehow, or even built a house in 2007. For 2008, this step is in the plans of women aged 26 to 65, married people and people in the upper middle and middle class.

Vehicles also objects to the required majority. Only senior people (51 to 65 years) have no plans to buy more cars than last year. Of all the other, more residents of Sao Paulo property plan to make new purchases of this kind in 2008. About 20% of those surveyed adolescents should be 18, as this year they plan to buy cars, a lot more than 5%, which had acquired them in the past year.
"It will be recalled that the dream of purchasing durable goods, like a car or a house, are not always met. Should specific spending plan for non-durable goods, such as clothing, for example, spend more than planned," explained the businessman.

Roads and Railways Are Key for Developing Brazil's Northeast

2008-04-02T08:13:00.000-07:00

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is certain that investment by his administration and the private sector in Northeast Brazil, where he was born, should bring about definitive changes for the region.

In his weekly Breakfast with the President radio-show, Lula highlighted the role of works carried out under the Growth Acceleration Program (PAC) of the Brazilian property federal government as mechanisms for growth.

"All this shows that investment in the Northeast is going to change. And it will change for the best, because the work is the creation of new jobs, I hope, income, and then everything will be improved. These are extremely important because they were working their last 30, 40 years, but to no avail, and now, with the PKK, we have decided to give priority to the most important. "

President enumerated several Brazil property infrastructure projects that are considered important to the north-eastern states. Highlights among the works include the construction of forecast 1600 kilometers of railways connect the ports of Suape, in the state of Pernambuco, and Pecém, in the state of Ceara.

Other works appealed to the outflow of production, such as the construction of railways and roads expansion, have also been mentioned. Lula also recalled the Brazil property cooperation that was announced Petrobras and Venezuelan state company PDVSA for the production and purification of oil.

Brazil industrial output climbs on durable goods

2008-04-01T05:41:00.000-07:00

Brazil's property industrial output climbed the most in four months in February, fueled by higher production of capital and durable goods.

Output climbed 9.7 percent in February from the year earlier month, the national statistic agency said in a statement distributed today in Brazil property Rio de Janeiro.

Cheaper credit and record low levels of unemployment have strengthened domestic demand and industrial production. In February, it was more than the revised 8.7 percent growth in January and 9.5 per cent average forecast in the survey of 25 economists.

The central bank said in the minutes of its Brazil property March 4-5 meeting considers raising the base interest rate to curb demand, as inflation quickens. It was 20 straight gain in the year-on year industrial production.

Output of capital goods increased from 25 percent a year ago, a month, the agency said.

Production of durable goods, such as cars, jumped 20.7 percent.

After stripping of seasonal factors, production fell 0.5 percent in February from January, the agency said.

Brazil's central government Februry budget surplus down

2008-03-31T01:51:00.000-07:00

Brazil's property central government primary budget surplus fell sharply to 5.03 billion reals ($2.88 billion) in February from 15.35 billion reals in January, the National Treasury said on Friday.

Profits rose from 3.5 billion reals in February 2007.
Strong decline was due to seasonally higher tax revenues, and one of the dividend income in January, the Treasury said.
The central government in the primary budget surplus for the first two months of this year stood at 4.59 per cent of gross domestic product, compared to 3.83 per cent of GDP in the same period a year ago.
The primary surplus includes the costs the Treasury, the central bank and the social security system, but excludes interest payments on debt and transfers to state and local governments.

The central government surplus feeds into the consolidated public-sector primary surplus, which is closely tracked by investors as a measure of Brazil's property ability to pay its debts. The consolidated primary surplus, due out on Monday, also excludes interest payments. ($1=1.744 Brazilian property reals)

Investment in leisure

2008-03-28T09:09:00.001-07:00

The Brazilian property developer of leisure real estate known as Invest Tur plans to develop projects with Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc., the third-biggest U.S. hotel company, Invest Tur said in a regulatory filing yesterday. Invest Tur rose 0.5 per cent to 774 reals.

Brazilian bank loans $5.8 mln to hydropower project

2008-03-28T09:08:00.001-07:00

Brazil's property state-owned Social and Economic Development Bank (BNDES) is to pump one billion reals (580 million U.S. dollars) into the construction of the Simplicio hydropower plant in the country's southeast.

BNDES said in a statement that Simplicio will be the second largest hydropower plant in the state of Rio de Janeiro. With a capability of generating 333.7 megawatts, the plant will be able to answer the power demand of a city with 1.5 million inhabitants.

The agreement was signed between BNDES and Furnas Centrais Eletricas, a major Brazilian property power company Thursday.

By 2010, when the plant is expected to start operation in a position to supply hydroelectric power will be increased by 28 per cent. Rio de Janeiro now has 10 hydroelectric plants with a total capacity of1, 200 megawatts.

BNDES expects the project to create 4000 direct jobs and 10000 indirect jobs. The project will also include the construction of sewage purification stations and the creation of environmentally protected areas near the dam.

According to BNDES, the operation has been included in a package of infrastructure projects in the programme for the acceleration of economic growth, developed by the federal government to promote economic development in the country.

The Bank is currently engaged in 105 energy projects in the programme, the total investment amounting to 62.8 billion reals (36.3 billion dollars).

Brazil foresees 4.8% economic growth in 2008

2008-03-28T09:07:00.001-07:00

Brazil's property Central Bank said Thursday that it has raised its expectation of the country's gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate this year from 4.5 percent to 4.8 percent.

In a statement, the Central Bank also added the inflation rate will reach 4.6 percent in 2008, up from the previously-estimated 4.3 percent.

It voiced concern over an misbalance between demand and supply, saying that if Brazil's property industrial sector fails to perform consumption demands, more pressure will be put on prices.

"The emphatic imbalance between the paces of expansion in domestic demand and supply ... presents a relevant risk to the inflationary overview, which requires attentive monitoring from the monetary authority," the statement said.

Meantime, the statement added that strengthened domestic demand creates an environment that favors an increase in investments, "even in a scenario of moderate deceleration in economic growth."

On March 12, authorities said Brazil's property GDP amounted to 2.6 trillion reals (1.5 trillion U.S. dollars) in 2007, up 5.4 percent from the previous year.

Growth was boosted mainly by an increase of 6.5 percent in family consumption and 13.4 percent in investments, which represented the biggest expansion since 1996.

Brascan buys MB Engenharia

2008-03-27T07:12:00.001-07:00

Brascan buys MB Engenharia

The Brazilian real estate company controlled by Canada's Brookfield Asset Management Inc. approved the general terms and conditions of the proposal for the acquisition of 100% shares issued by MB Engenharia, the Rio de Janeiro-based company said in a regulatory filing.

The structure of the operation foresees immediate investments in MB Engenharia and sets the basis of payments to shareholders. The transaction should be concluded in April.

Brazil concerned by overheated credit deals

2008-03-26T03:19:00.001-07:00

The Brazilian government is increasingly concerned by a boom in credit deals, which now amount to more than a third of the country's gross domestic product (GDP).

Personal, corporate and institutional credit now tops 957.6 billion reais (US$550 billion), which equals 34.9 percent of Brazil's property GDP, the Central Bank announced yesterday.

According to the bank, private borrowers are responsible for a total of US$189.5 billion, mostly fueled by an increase in car-leasing Brazil property agreements.

The head of the Central Bank Economic Department, Altamir Lopes, said yesterday that the total amount of loans is expected to increase by 20 per cent to 25 per cent in 2008 compared with last year, about 40 per cent of GDP in Brazil property. He said that growth was "reasonable" in comparison with similar economies.

However, Finance Minister Guido Mantega yesterday expressed concern over this issue and said that he will meet with the heads of the bank this week to discuss measures to slow consumption and prevent inflation.

The Central Bank monetary policy board said that was referring to raise a key interest rate now stands at 11.25 percent, to counter inflation. Bank aims at 4.5 percent inflation target this year.

Growing foreign appetite for land

2008-03-26T03:19:00.000-07:00

It is a question of "national sovereignty, not xenophobia," said the president of Brazil’s land reform agency, INCRA, explaining the need to regulate foreign land ownership in Brazil.

The biofuel frenzy has driven growing purchases of land in Brazil property in the last few years, by local and foreign investors alike. Global financier George Soros, Microsoft chairman Bill Gates, the owners of Google and former U.S. president Bill Clinton (1993-2001) have all bought land or are partners in companies Brazil property dedicated to the development of biofuel in this country.

As a result, land prices have grown. The price per hectare rose by an average of 18 per cent in 2007, and much more than that in areas where cultivation of grains and sugar cane is widening, according to the Instituto FNP, an agribusiness consulting firm in Sao Paulo property.

Some measure of control must be reflected over rural property in the hands of foreign owners, in order for the country to be fully aware of the extent of Brazil Property of the phenomenon and to have power over how land is used, the head of INCRA, Rolf Hackbart, told.

"It’s not a question of interdictioning foreign investment," he clarified.

A Brazilian property law regulates sales of land to foreigners since 1971, restricting purchases to residents or companies operating in the country and setting size limits on the areas that can be acquired.

Brazil demonstrators against privatization of state-owned company

2008-03-26T03:18:00.000-07:00

About 500 demonstrators opposed to the privatization of a large Brazilian property electricity producer yesterday blocked access to one of the company's dams, protesting over an auction of the majority stake in the state-owned company.

According to a statement released Energetica de Sao Paulo SA, or CESP, the protest yesterday did not affect us, exploitation and protesters occupied only public area before leaving.
Privatization of state companies, which generates about 60 percent of electricity used in the Sao Paulo state requires a minimum bid at 6.6 billion reals (3.8 billion dollars).

Activists from the Landless Workers Movement and the Movement of Dam-Affected people are strongly opposed to privatization of public companies, which they see as letting state property wealthy investors.

As in Brazil property, the federal government promised not to renew the license for two CESP in dams, many doubt that the auction will generate minimum rates and, consequently, CESP stock faced 10.7 percent loss yesterday in Sao Paulo Bovespa exchange.

Multiplan Announces EBITDA Growth in 2007 of 48% to R$212.2 Million

2008-03-26T03:03:00.001-07:00

Multiplan Empreendimentos Imobiliarios S.A., the largest mall owner and manager in Brazil property by revenue, the most profitable company in the sector, with a portfolio of 13 owned malls (three under development and ten operational and consolidated, five of which are being expanded), publishes its results for the fourth quarter of 2007. Except where stated otherwise, the financial and operating data is based on consolidated data in Brazilian real, in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in Brazil property.

-- Gross revenue was R$112.4 million in the quarter, up 24.8% versus the

R$90.1 million in 4Q06. In 2007, gross revenue totaled R$368.8 million,

growing 33.4% in relation to the R$276.5 million in 2006.

-- Adjusted EBITDA increased 26.8% to R$67.2 million, from R$53.0 million

in 4Q06. In the year, Adjusted EBITDA grew by 47.5% to R$212.2 million,

from R$143.8 million in 2006.

-- Adjusted Income in the quarter increased by 34.4% to R$61.4 million,

compared with R$45.7 million in 4Q06. In 2007, Adjusted Income was

R$176.5 million, 73.2% higher than R$176.5 million a year earlier.

-- Adjusted FFO was R$68.6 million in the quarter, 35.5% higher year on

year. In 2007, FFO grew by 67.7% to R$200.2 million, from R$119.4

million in 2006.

-- Acquisition of a 36,748 sq.m. land for future commercial development in

the Barra da Tijuca neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro, one of the cities

fastest-growing real estate markets.

Investors snap up property for sale in Brazil

2008-03-24T01:50:00.000-07:00

A growing amount of second home buyers from the UK are buying property for sale in Brazil, it has been discovered.

British newspaper the Times wrote that the north-east coast of the South American nation has become a major hotspot of activity for overseas buyers.

The publication said developers are creating brand new resorts along the coastline, which include attractions such as private pools, spas and golf courses.

This offers that authorities in the region are aiming to attract buyers to the top end of the market.

However, the newspaper wrote that it is not only overseas property buyers who are interested in buying property for sale in the region.

The Times remarked: "The emergence of an increasingly affluent Brazilian middle class means there is not too great a dependence on British and other foreign buyers."

North-east Brazil was recently recommended by NuWire Investor, which said its growing tourist trade and strong economy makes it a good location for investors to consider.

This comes after north-east Brazil was described as a "hidden gem" by NuWire Investor on the strength of its strong economy and growing tourist trade.

Brazilian Trade Surplus May Narrow by Half, Estado Reports

2008-03-24T01:49:00.000-07:00

Brazil

's trade excess this year may be half of the value registered in 2007 because of the increase in imports, O Estado de Sao Paulo reported on its Web site, citing revised estimates from banks and economic institutions.

Estimates for the trade surplus this year have been cut to about $20 billion from forecasts of about $30 billion some weeks ago, the Brazilian newspaper said. Brazil had a trade surplus of $40 billion last year, Estado reported.

New Brazilian regulations 'spur property growth'

2008-03-24T01:48:00.000-07:00

Regulations introduced in 2005 have had a real impact on property for sale in Brazil, as well as the whole real estate market in country.

According to the Brazilian Association of Real Estate and Savings Institutions, the number of real estate loans has risen from 53,787 in 2004 to 195,900 in 2008.

Jose Carlos Oliveira, professor of economics at the University of Brasilia, told the Latin Business Chronicle that the changes related to real estate guarantees.

In 2005, the government allowed banks to 'own' a property until the borrower had repaid their loan in full.

"Although this option creates a highly risky situation for the borrower, it makes it possible for the person who provides the funds to have an additional motivation because it permits him to recover the property in case of non-payment," he commented.

Antonio Montes, professor at the Instituto de Empresa in Spain, said the regulations have democratized the real estate market, making it more realistic for low-income earners to enter into the property market.

According to Brazil's finance ministry, analysts are "unanimous" that Brazil is a place where things are "going well" and where companies and banks are "solid". The government expects that that this will reassure investors who are looking for property for sale in Brazil.

Brazil Pursues Crackdown on Loggers After Surge in Cutting

2008-03-21T04:05:00.000-07:00

The Brazilian government has begun an invasive crackdown on logging in the Amazon, an operation that pits environmental regulators against people who say they depend on those protected resources to survive.

After three years of declining rates of deforestation, satellite images released in January showed that about 2,700 square miles of land in the Brazilian Amazon had been cleared in the final five months of 2007 -- a rate that would represent more than a 60 percent increase over the five-month average of the prior year.

The government quickly issued a moratorium on logging in the hardest-hit areas, including this town, which sits about four hours by car from the mouth of the Amazon River. Officials suppose that 70 percent of the population of about 65,000 here depends on the wood industry. Some work for big logging operations. Many more are like Ediline Natos, the wood industry's version of sustenance farmers.

Brazilian president defends national development program

2008-03-21T04:01:00.000-07:00

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said Thursday that the government-sponsored national Growth Acceleration Program (PAC) is for the benefit of the country, not for "electoral" purposes as voiced by opponents.

Criticism that the government is using PAC as an electoral tool is "verbal stupidity that lacks logics," Lula said.

The program is aimed at bringing welfare to the country, said the president, adding that he has approved investments of 4.6 billion U.S. dollars in the state of Sao Paulo, and 635 million dollars in Sao Paulo's capital city, which are governed by members of the opposition parties.

"To me it does not matter which party the mayor belongs to, or which party the governor belongs to. What matters is that the state has needs, the city has needs, and we have the money and we will carry out the projects," he said.

The program, launched in 2007, is aimed at boosting social and economic development all over the country. Its projects are still in operation this year, when the municipal elections are

Rossi Residencial SA assured a 200 million real from a Banco Bradesco SA

2008-03-21T04:00:00.000-07:00

Rossi Residencial SA, the third largest Brazilian developer, assured a 200 million real ($117 million) standby credit facility from a Banco Bradesco SA unit last week as demand for fixed- income is infirm, investor relations director Sergio Rossi said. The company may gauge ``meticulously'' whether conditions meet to sell as much as 300 million reals of local notes in coming weeks, he said.

Loans ``certainly offer an advantage at this moment of turbulence,'' Rossi said in a Sao Paulo interview.

Business Monitor International’s Brazilian Infrastructure Report 2008 Summary

2008-03-20T08:27:00.000-07:00

Brazil

is the 9th largest economy in the world and owns well-developed agricultural, mining, manufacturing and service sectors. Development in infrastructure is being driven by public-private partnerships (PPP), when the Brazilian construction industry is being backed by strong government investments.

Brazil can capitalize on its rising trade with the Arab world and expand it on numerous fronts, including the construction industry. The leading 10 construction companies are all long-established and significant players in Brazil. Moreover, the Programa de Acelera¸ão do Crescimento (PAC) – the federal government's growth acceleration plan that was unveiled in January 2007 – is expected to stanch faster completion of the construction projects that are in the pipeline. The program is also aimed at projects in the oil and gas, transportation and sanitation sectors, pointing to boost BRL500 billion (US$235 billion) of infrastructure development during 2007-2010.

Besides, private investment generated through PPP has been beneficial only at the state level. There is inadequate public investment in the nation's transport infrastructure, leading to slackened progress in the development of roadways and port terminals. The laws do not spur foreign companies, which stipulate that the latter need to either be stated in Brazil or have a Brazilian partner in order to provide construction services.

In spite of the risks, BMI forecasts an average construction-industry growth rate of 6.24% during 2007- 2011. The government's enterprise to perform the PPP model in infrastructure-connected projects is anticipated to drive foreign investments in construction and boost the industry growth rate. Brazil can insure long-term financing in spite of opportunities of lead time in infrastructure developments due to regulatory and environmental licensing problems.

According to the BMI Business Environment Rankings, Brazil ranks the nation 4th out of the seven states included from Latin America.

Brazil may create a record 1.8 million formal jobs this year

2008-03-19T02:41:00.000-07:00

Brazil

will create a record number of formal jobs this year as the pace of economic growth accelerates on rising domestic demand, the labor minister said.

Brazil property, Latin America's biggest economy, is forecast to create more than 1.8 million government-registered jobs this year up from the previous record of 1.62 million last year, Labor Minister Carlos Lupi told reporters today in Brasilia.

``Brazil's industry is growing and the agricultural sector too,'' Lupi said. ``There has been an increase in output in response to demand, without sparking inflation.''

Employers in Brazil do not want to create formal jobs - positions that provide all benefits, including insurance, pension and severance - because the cost of the wage bill is about twice by taxes. The growth in the more-desirable formal jobs is further evidence of economic strength in real estate of Brazil.

The number of government-registered jobs rose 39 per cent in February from a year earlier, the Labor Ministry said today. The economy created 204,963 formal jobs last month compared with 148,019 in February 2007, the ministry announced in a statement distributed from Brasilia.

The government-registered job creation number is a balance of posts created minus job dismissals. Registered jobs, the so-called formal work, assure employees a range of benefits such as unemployment insurance, bonuses and retirement payments by the government.

Brazil investment grade `more difficult,' Fitch says

2008-03-19T02:40:00.001-07:00

Brazil

's path to an investment grade rating is ``more difficult'' as a global credit crisis threatens to reduce liquidity and economic growth, Fitch Inc.'s Peter Shaw said.

``It's hard to make any comments on timing, but the recent events weren't in our considerations six or nine months ago,'' Shaw, managing director of Fitch's Latin America Bank Group, said in a Bloomberg Television interview today. ``It's a little more difficult.''

The wreck of the U.S. subprime mortgage market forced 45 of the world's biggest banks and securities firms to write off more than $195 billion. The losses may lead banks to reduce credit and oppose economic growth.

``Brazil's property biggest challenge is to show it can sustain the economic growth,'' Shaw said. ``The perspective for global growth is less optimistic, and this won't help.''

The Federal Reserve has cut its benchmark rate 3 percentage points since September to help reduce the impact of the crisis that has infected financial markets around the world.

Fitch increased Brazil's credit rating to BB+ from BB in May. The rating is one level below investment grade.

Brazil's gross domestic product increased 5.4 per cent in 2007, the fastest pace since 2004, the government stated last week. Growth in Latin America's biggest economy has been supported by record low interest rates and wage increases, which are fueling demand for goods such as cars, homes and electronics.

State and non-state bank lending in Brazil property increased 28 per cent in the 12 months through January to a record 944.2 billion reals ($559 billion), according to the central bank figures.

Shaw expects lending to increase more than 20 per cent this year. ``Banks are financing this growth of credit with their own resources or funds from the domestic market, and they can continue to do so,'' he said.

Merrill Lynch hires Brazilian bankers from UBS

2008-03-19T02:40:00.000-07:00

Merrill Lynch & Co said on Tuesday it hired nine bankers to build up its Brazilian banking operations on property, including seven from rival UBS.

"Brazil is a critical growth property market for Merrill Lynch and the appointments confirm its importance," Chief Operating Officer Greg Fleming said in a statement.

The bankers hired from UBS include Alexandre Bettamio, who was co-head of investment banking in Brazil for UBS unit UBS Pactual. He will head investment banking for Brazil property at Merrill Lynch.

Other UBS bankers joining Merrill Lynch are Roderick Greenlees, Hans Lin, Ricardo Moura, Andre Azevedo, Leonardo Mota, and Pedro Garcia.

Merrill Lynch also hired Sebastien Chatel as co-head of Latin America equity capital markets from Credit Suisse and David Panico from Itau/BBA.

Net income for the PDG grows 202.6% in 2007

2008-03-18T02:25:00.000-07:00

The PDG Realty Empreedimentos Inmobiliarios reported adjusted net income (excluding the expenses relating to the initial public offering of shares) of $ 129.5 million last year, representing an increase in Brazil property of 202.6% over 2006. In the period, net income amounted $ 552 million, increased of 178.3%, while the EBITDA (profit before interest, taxes, depreciation and depreciation) reached $ 161.1 million, growth of 214%. In statement to the Brazil property market, the company also announced data from the fourth quarter of 2007, when the adjusted net income totaled $ 50.66 million, high of 126.3% compared to same period in 2006. In the same comparison, the net income reached $ 190.7 million, 86.3% of high, and EBITDA $ reached $ 60.4 million, advancement of 117.3%.

San Paolo prepares measures against transit chaos

2008-03-14T10:28:00.002-07:00

The Mayor of Sao Paulo preparing a series of measures to improve the transit of Sao Paulo. The municipal secretary for Transport, Alexandre de Moraes, said yesterday that among the proposals, are to prohibit parking on the streets of big movement in times of peak morning and evening.

The synchronization with intelligent traffic lights - that self-regulate the opening and closing as a cargo transit, increased restrictions on the transport of cargo during the rush, and increasing surveillance Brazil property, with more cameras and men are among the proposals being studied, as well as installation of the panels to inform alternative routes.

Moraes said that measures must be taken in April, when complete a study on the chaotic traffic.

The objective of the measures will prioritize public transport rather than the individual Brazil property. With emplacamento of up to one thousand cars per day, Sao Paulo is breaking records of congestion in recent days. Pollution also grows, even in days of rain, where there are conditions for dispersal.

Velcan Energy Acquires the Quebra Dedo Hydroelectric Project in Brazil

2008-03-14T10:28:00.001-07:00

Velcan Energy announced that it has acquired the Quebra Dedo 16 Megawatts hydroelectric projection in Brazil. Depending on the different authorizations still coming, construction of the Quebra Dedo should start in the first semester of 2009 and the start-up of production in 2010-2011. The Quebra Dedo Hydroelectric project is located on the Suaci Grande River, in the state of Minas Gerais, South-East region of Brazil. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Mitsui, Petrobras to form bioethanol venture in Brazil

2008-03-14T10:27:00.000-07:00

Petroleo Brasileiro S.A., or Petrobras, said Thursday it and Mitsui & Co have signed documents to set up a joint venture in Brazil to implement bioethanol-related projects, including one to export bioethanol to Japan. The venture, Participacoes Nippo Brasileira em Complexos Bioenergeticos S.A., will be owned evenly by the two partners, according to the Brazilian state-owned oil and gas company. Brazil property is the world's largest bioethanol exporter. Bioethanol can be produced from sugarcanes. The two partners will seek to ship the biofuel to Japan, where demand for the environmentally-friendly fuel is expected to rise due to the need to take measures to limit global warming.

Groups White Eagle and Caprioli negotiate purchase of jets from Embraer for Trip

2008-03-13T02:55:00.000-07:00

The entrepreneur David Neeleman should not be the only one to operate regional jets from Embraer in Brazil property. A Trip, greater regional enterprise in the country, is also negotiating the purchase of jets with the Brazilian manufacturer, show sources of the market.

The president of the Trip, José Mário Caprioli limited itself to confirm that the company is in fact considering the addition of regional jets to its fleet, now composed only by aircraft.
"We are doing a very thorough analysis and we believe that in a not so distant horizon property should have regional jets into our fleet," said the executive. He did not want to specify when, but said that "the decision will come soon."

Company of the group and the White Eagle capixaba group Caprioli, both of the road transport industry, Trip has a fleet of 18 turboélices. They are models of aircraft ATR 42 (of 40 seats), ATR 72 (66 seats) and Brasilia (30 seats), Embraer property in Brazil.

Despite having only 1.05% of domestic market share, Trip is present in 64 cities, higher than the number of destinations served by Gol (50) or by TAM (45).

Brazil Posts Again a Trade Deficit

2008-03-12T02:22:00.000-07:00

Brazilian exports totaled US$ 3,228 billion and imports, US$ 3,387 billion, resulting in a trade deficit of US$ 159 million in the first week of March. The data were supplied, today, March 10, by Brazil's Ministry of Development, Industry and Foreign Trade, which discloses the weekly trade balance results every Monday.
A negative take of US$ 81 million was registered property in the fourth week of February as well. This was the first trade deficit recorded ever since the third week of May 2002 (US$ 35 million).
In the accumulated result for the year, totaling 46 business days, the balance of trade maintained a surplus of US$ 1.667 billion (daily average of US$ 36.2 million), lower than recorded in the same period property of 2007 (US$ 5.634 billion).
Exports totaled US$ 29.305 billion, at a daily average of US$ 637.1 million, and imports stood at US$ 27.638 billion, resulting in a daily average of US$ 677.4 million.
In 2007, up until the first week of March, imports did not follow the same pace and reached US$ 16.701 billion, when foreign Brazil property sales faced at US$ 22.335 billion.
As imports are growing at a stronger rate than exports, market analysts have decreased their projection for the balance of trade from US$ 30 billion down to US$ 29 billion, according to the Focus bulletin, published this Monday, March 10, by the Brazilian Central Bank.

In Tourism Brazil Ranks 49 to Switzerland's 1st Place

2008-03-12T02:21:00.000-07:00

Brazil, in 49th place, is the Mercosur (Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay) country best ranked in the second annual Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2008, released by the World Economic Forum. Top of the list figure Switzerland, Austria, Germany, Australia, Spain and the UK.
Mercosur countries do not figure among the most attractive environments for developing the travel and tourism industry, pursuant to the report. Costa Rica is Latin America's top ranking country followed by Chile, 51, Mexico, 55, Argentina, 58 and Uruguay, 61.
"The dependence of tourism on the quality of the natural environment leads national governments and the tourism industry to focus increasingly on environmental protection," said Thea Chiesa, head of Aviation, Travel and Tourism at the World Economic Forum.
In this scope, this year's Report, under the theme Balancing Economic Development and Environmental Sustainability, places a specific focus on the issue, both through a reinforced environmental component of the Index used to measure travel & tourism (T&T) competitiveness and through topics covered by the analytical chapters.
Improvements have been made to the Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index (TTCI) this year. The "environmental regulation" pillar has been revised and improved as well as being re-named the "environmental sustainability" pillar to better reflect its components and to capture the increasingly recognized importance of sustainability in the sector's development.

Industrial employment in Brazil falls

2008-03-12T02:20:00.000-07:00

Industrial employment in Brazil fell by 0.4% between December 2007 and January 2008, the Brazilian Census Bureau informed on Wednesday. However, there was a 2.8% rise against January 2007.
In the year ending January 2008 industrial employment rose 2.3%.
Meanwhile, the sector's real wages rose by 2.9% between December 2007 and January 2008, and by 7.2% in the comparison with January 2007 - the highest result since December 2004 (10.7%).

Activists block Brazil railway

2008-03-11T06:20:00.000-07:00

Hundreds of Brazilian farmers have blocked a railway owned by mining firm Vale in protest against the construction of a hydroelectric dam which they say will displace thousands of people.

The occupation of the railway facility was carried out by 600 protesters from several activist groups, including Via Campesina and the Landless Rural Workers Movement, known in Brazil as the MST, Companhia Vale do Rio Doce SA said in a statement.

Vale said the action, in Brazil's southern Minas Gerais state, halted transportation of 2,500 passengers a day and 300,000 tonnes of ore.

Vale condemned the action in a statement, saying it "repudiates violence and the constant threats to its patrimony and life of its workers by the MST".

On Saturday, MST activists invaded a Vale-owned forestry and charcoal unit near the company's plant in Carajas - the Amazon area where Vale's biggest iron ore mine is located.

Last October the group, along with Via Campesina, also blocked a railroad near the Carajas plant for couple days, shortly leaving the plant without raw materials.

In Brazil, land considered unproductive can be expropriated by the government for redistribution to the country's poor people.

About 3.5 percent of landowners hold 56 percent of arable land in Brazil, while the poorest 40 percent own only one percent.

In recent years the groups have also turned their attention to targeting large companies and multi-nationals, invading land they consider unproductive in order to pressure the government.

Brazil's largest private bank acquires top home stock broker

2008-03-07T09:04:00.001-08:00

Bradesco, Brazil's largest private bank, announced Thursday that it has acquired Agora Holdings, owner of Brazil's leading home stock broker Agora Corretora, for about 830 million reais (494 million U.S. dollars).
This will allow the bank to get the top position in the home broker sector, which has been receiving high rates of economic growth. Nevertheless, the transaction remains approval by the Brazilian authorities, according to a press release issued by the bank.
After the acquisition, Agora Corretora will be run in the "Independent", and will continue to rely on its current operations and service structures, the bank said.
Of the acquisition deal, 500 million reals (298 million U.S. dollars) correspond to the value of the business, and the remaining 330 million reals (196 million U.S. dollars) represent the market value of the stocks held by Agora Holdings in the Sao Paulo Stock Exchange and the Brazilian Mercantile and Futures Exchange, Bradesco said.
Agora Corretora, which has been operating in the market for over 15 years and has about 29,000 active clients, is the largest broker in Brazil's home broker sector, according to Bradesco

Pele joins Brazil's 2014 organising committee

2008-03-07T09:03:00.000-08:00

Pele, who was conspicuously absent from the ceremony when Brazil were awarded the 2014 World Cup last year, is now joining the tournament's organising committee.
"I want to be part of a World Cup which will be worthy of Brazil," he told Globo television in an interview on Thursday, standing next to Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) president Ricardo Teixeira.
"I hope that Brazil can put on a World Cup which will serve as an example to FIFA and the world.
"I believe I can make a big contribution to the success of the World Cup in our country."
Brazil, the only candidate to stage the tournament, were confirmed as hosts by FIFA last October.
At that time, Teixeira dismissed the absence of a player who symbolizes for most people in the South American country of football.
"I do not know where he is, but we have invited two players here, which is great generation of players during my presidency," he said, referring to the former captain Dunga, currently coach of the national team, and the larva Romario.
Teixeira the CBF has been president since 1989, and its relations with Pele often frosty.

Rice to visit Brazil and Chile next week

2008-03-07T09:02:00.000-08:00

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice will visit Brazil and Chile next week, an aide said on Thursday, making a trip that could be overshadowed by a dispute over Colombia's bombing of rebels on Ecuadorean soil.
State Department spokesman Tom Casey said Rice's March 13-15 journey would include two stops in Brazil -- the capital, Brasilia, and the city of Salvador, the former slave port that is now capital of the Brazilian state of Bahia.
She will also visit the Chilean capital, Santiago.
Casey said Rice would focus on regional and bilateral issues, including biofuels cooperation with Brazil and trade with Chile. He said he did not expect the Ecuador-Colombia dispute to dominate the trip, which was previously scheduled.
The crisis erupted on Saturday, when Colombia held a bombing raid in Ecuador, which killed a senior rebel from the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia and the FARC, a Marxist guerrilla group, leading four decades ago, a war against the Colombia.
Ecuador, Venezuela and Nicaragua broken diplomatic relations with Colombia over the incident and Venezuela on Wednesday moved tanks, as well as air and sea forces in the direction of the Colombian border.
The United States called for the settlement of the crisis, which pits OPEC members Venezuela and Ecuador to Colombia, which receives billions of dollars in military assistance to the United States.

Lula participates in ceremony of the beginning of work of the PAC in Rio Slums

2008-03-06T06:33:00.001-08:00

The President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva participates on Friday (7) the ceremony of signing of the orders to start the works of the CAP (the Growth Acceleration Program) of the complex of German and Manguinhos (north of Rio) and Rocinha ( south side of the River). The spokesman of the Presidency, Marcelo Baumbach, said the federal and state governments go invest about $ 1 billion in these communities through social programs, construction of houses, schools, kindergartens, units of health, area of recreation, water treated, network treatment of sewage, drainage and paving of streets.
"In the German Complex in area estimated at 1.8 million square meters, will be held investment of about $ 493 million, which benefit about 95 thousand people," said Baumbach yesterday.
According to him, Manguinhos will be invested $ 232 million in an area of 490 thousand square meters. The works should benefit 45 thousand inhabitants of the community.
In Rocinha, investment to reach $ 175 million. "The projects are long-term and aim to ensure sensitive advance in several sectors, in the philosophy of the physical improvements should be accompanied by work, health and decent housing," said Baumbach.
On Saturday, President Lula part of the launch of the project Scholarship Training of formation to police. The project was created in the framework of Pronasci (Programa Nacional de Seguranca with Citizenship).

Manufacturers of capital goods should invest more in 2008

2008-03-05T02:06:00.001-08:00

The industry of machinery and equipment installed in Brazil estimated 19.94% increase in investment this year to $ 9.39 billion compared to $ 7.83 billion applied in 2007, when rose 13.7% the year before Previous as lifting the Interstate Union of Machinery Industry (Sindimaq) and the Brazilian Association of Machinery and Equipment Industry (Abimaq). The authorities yesterday also released the figures for January this year, when the nominal turnover of the industry grew 38.8%, compared to same month of 2007, reaching $ 5.16 billion.

Apparent consumption (production plus imports with, minus exports) Brazil, meanwhile, gave greater leap of 46%, and was the $ 6.7 billion in the month, pull, in particular, the increase of 60.4% on imports of capital goods in the period, which totaled $ 1.76 billion (FOB). Already exports rose 29% and totaled $ 886 million. The trade deficit grew 112% in the month, to US $ 880 million. Last year, the deficit reached $ 4.8 billion.

As the vice president of Abimaq / Sindimaq, Carlos Nogueira, performance January, although expressive, should be examined with caution, since the same month of last year the results were very low and grew only 5% compared to R $ 3.54 billion in January 2006. In relation to December last, when the industry faturou $ 5.93 billion, a drop of 13%.

Brazil's central bank holds auction to buy dollars

2008-03-05T02:06:00.000-08:00

Brazil's central bank said on Tuesday it would hold an auction to buy dollars on the spot foreign exchange market as part of an ongoing effort to boost international reserves.

The Brazilian real was 0.12 percent stronger at 1.67 per dollar shortly after the announcement, near its strongest level since May 1999.

The central bank has been buying dollars almost daily since October, helping lift Brazil's reserves to rise of more than $190 billion.

RECORD - PUBLIC TITLES

2008-03-05T01:56:00.000-08:00

The Andima (National Association of Financial Markets Institutions) will advertise, from now on their website, more information on the values of the negotiations of securities held by the federal public BM & F.
The entity already discloses the average prices of institutions. Now, it will also register possible intentions of offers. "Improved quality of information should bring more liquidity to the market of electronic paper longer," says the superintendent of Andima, Paulo Sampaio.

Bovespa Beats Biggest Stock Markets on Brazil Consumers, Steel

2008-03-03T05:51:00.001-08:00

Brazil's Bovespa Index is beating the biggest stock markets this year on the fastest retail sales growth since at least 2001 and rising global demand for the country's metals, oil and sugar.
The 64-member index overtook the Dow average, the best performer in January, led by gains in Gerdau SA, Brazil's biggest steelmaker, and Cia. de Bebidas das Americas, the country's largest brewer. The Bovespa trades at 14.8 times its members' reported profit, compared with 15.9 for the MSCI Emerging Markets Index, data compiled by Bloomberg show.
``We still see plenty of upside for these stocks,'' said William Landers, a fund manager at BlackRock Inc. in Plainsboro, New Jersey, who invests about 70 percent of the $7.8 billion in Latin American assets he manages in Brazil. ``Brazil still looks very attractive from a valuations perspective.''
In 64 – member index of the Dow average, the best performer in January, led by gains in Gerdau SA, Brazil's largest steelmaker and Cia. de Bebidas das Americas, the country's largest brewer. In Bovespa bidding 14.8 times its members have reported earnings, compared to 15.9 in the MSCI Emerging Markets Index, data collected by Bloomberg show.
``We continue to see a lot up for these stocks,''said William Landers, a fund manager at BlackRock Inc., in Plainsboro, New Jersey, which invests about 70 percent of the 7.8 billion dollars in the Latin American assets it manages in Brazil.`` Brazil still looks very attractive in terms of price.''

Brazil miner Vale 4th quarter profit up, 2007 record

2008-02-29T08:28:00.001-08:00

Brazil's CVRD, one of the world's top three miners, posted on Thursday a fourth-quarter net profit 29 per cent higher than a year ago, boosting 2007 earnings to a new record on higher output and iron ore prices.

Vale, the world's biggest iron ore producer, said in a statement it netted 4.4 billion reals ($2.6 billion in the last quarter of 2007 and 20 billion reals for the whole of last year under Brazilian accounting rules.

The full-year profit rose 49 per cent.

Vale, which is in negotiations to buy Swiss rival Xstrata, a transaction that could be worth more than 90 billion U.S. USA, called the results "healthy, low-risk debt."

It said that profit before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) fell to 6.43 billion reals from 7.96 billion reals in the same period of 2006, in accordance with Brazilian accounting rules, as a fall in nickel and copper prices weighed.

However, in accordance with GAAP USA, Wale sent forth-quarter profit of almost $2.6 billion EBITDA in the United States and $3.5 billion, which is sharply from a previous $1.6 billion and $2.6 billion dollars respectively.

Profit exceeded most forecasts. Analysts agency Reuters polled expected, on average, a U.S. GAAP net of about $2.3 billion and EBITDA of $3.9 billion for the fourth quarter.

Brazil central bank holds auction to buy dollars

2008-02-29T08:26:00.001-08:00

Brazil's central bank said on Thursday it would hold an auction to buy dollars on the spot foreign exchange market as part of an ongoing effort to boost international reserves.

The Brazilian real BRBY was 0.36 percent weaker at 1.677 per dollar shortly after the announcement. The real, which closed on Tuesday below 1.7 to the dollar for the first time since May 1999, has already gained more than 6 percent this year after rising 20 percent in 2007.

The central bank resumed the purchase of dollars in October, after two months of interruption of the foreign exchange market. He has already bought greenbacks every day for many months, helping to lift Brazil to the highest reserves of around $ 190 billion.

tariffs on Brazilian

2008-02-29T08:24:00.000-08:00

Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke said on Thursday he favored cutting high tariffs on Brazilian ethanol to help take pressure off food prices.

"As you know, I favor open trade and I think allowing Brazilian ethanol, for example, would reduce costs in the United States," Bernanke told the Senate Banking Committee.

Most of the ethanol made in the United States comes from corn, and domestic production is protected from sugar-based Brazilian ethanol by a steep tariff.

Bernanke said that it was difficult to say how many current high demand for ethanol is to raise food prices.

"But it is the case that a significant portion of the corn crop is diverted to ethanol, which raises the price of bread," Bernanke said panel.

"I have some side effects, for example in some of areas of soybean production has been moved to maize, which is likely to have some effect on soybean prices. therefore there is some impact on the price of food by switching to energy use," said Bernanke.

Vallourec Upgraded to `Buy' From `Neutral' at Merrill Lynch

2008-02-28T07:33:00.001-08:00

Vallourec SA, the world's second-biggest producer of oil-and-gas pipes, was reached to ``buy'' from ``neutral'' according to analysts at Merrill Lynch & Co.
``Based on a more positive view on pipes prices, we are increasing our expectations by around 4 percent in 2008-2010,'' the team, including Alejandro Demichelis, wrote in a research note dated today.
Merrill set its share-price estimate for the company at 175 euros. Vallourec rose 2 per cent yesterday to 140.52 euros.
``The development of Brazil's recent deepwater oil & gas discoveries remains a key theme in the global oil service arena and we believe that the market fails to fully appreciate Vallourec's expansion plans in the country,'' the analysts said.

Brazil Federal Tax Revenue Soars 26% From Year Ago

2008-02-28T07:32:00.001-08:00

Brazil

's federal revenue surged 26 percent in January as faster economic growth boosted collections, allaying concern that last year's lapse of a financial transactions tax would lead to a shortfall.

The government took in 62.6 billion reals ($37.2 billion) compared with 49.9 billion reals in the same month a year ago, the federal tax agency said in a report issued today in Brasilia. The expired financial transactions levy produced 2.9 billion reals in January 2007.

Tax revenue is soaring as Latin America's biggest economy expands at the fastest pace in more than three years, supporting a jump consumer expenses and record company profits, said Alex Agostini, chief economist at Sao Paulo-based Austin Rating Servicos Financeiros.

To make up for part of an expected 40 billion-reals budget gap, President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva raised other levies expected to generate 10 billion reals in 2008.

Simpler Taxes

Brazil's business leaders view taxes as the major obstacle for companies seeking to expand, according to a survey by the national industrial association, published in October. The tax burden reached a record high 34.2 percent of gross domestic product in 2006, according to figures by the tax collection agency.

The government will send Congress a tax reform proposal on Feb. 28 that suggest to cut taxes for investments and exports, Finance Minister Guido Mantega said last week. The offer also plans to prune the country's tax system by consolidating various federal levies into one.

Guido Mantega said that changes in the country's tax code will spur economic growth to 5.5 percent from 5 percent.

Changes in the tax system are the most important among reforms that the country needs to pursue, Mantega told business leaders at a meeting today in Brasilia.

Naomi Campbell In Hospital After Surgery

2008-02-27T07:31:00.000-08:00

The 37-year-old British supermodel, a frequent visitor to Brazil who earlier this month celebrated Carnival in the northeastern city of Salvador, was treated at Sirio Libanes Hospital..
"Naomi Campbell was admitted to the hospital last night to have a small cyst removed," Jeff Raymond, Campbell's publicist, said in a statement. "Following the successful procedure, she is now resting and is looking forward to getting back to work. She would like to thank the doctors who have kindly looked after her."
"Following the successful procedure, she is now resting and is looking forward to getting back to work.
"She would like to thank the doctors who have kindly looked after her."
A hospital statement said: "The patient and her advisers have determined that the hospital's medical staff will not issue any formal or informal information on her medical condition.."
She is being treated by David Uip, a specialist in infectious diseases and gynaecologist Jose Aristodemo Pinotti, the statement said.
Campbell, a frequent visitor to Brazil who earlier this month celebrated Carnival in the northeastern city of Salvador, is being treated at Sao Paulo's Sirio Libanes Hospital.

Brazil launches anti-poverty drive

2008-02-26T08:07:00.000-08:00

The Brazilian government has unveiled a multi-billion dollar anti-poverty plan to provide jobs and infrastructure in the poorest parts of the country.
President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said the biggest cost to the country was not taxes but a century in which poor people had been forgotten.
The move comes months before important municipal polls are held across Brazil.
The program, which will see some $6 billion spent in 2008 alone, still has to be approved by Congress.
The initiative, known as "Territories of Citizenship", is meant to help around 24 million people, including rural workers and indigenous communities.
The money, which is part of the existing budget, will be used to supply 135 policies, including 15 government departments, that are operating on 958 towns in states across the country.
The government is also promising to finally reach its target in the "Light for Everyone" program to bring electricity to poor communities.
The areas selected for funding are said to be in the 60 regions of Brazil with the lowest rankings on the UN Human Development Index.
Speaking in the capital, Brasilia, on Monday, President Lula called the proposals the "second step to ending poverty".
Brazil already has a major anti-poverty programme, known as Bolsa Familia, that pays a monthly allowance to more than 11 million families.

Brazil no longer depends on US, Europe, Silva says

2008-02-26T08:04:00.000-08:00

Brazil is well-prepared to weather a US recession due to diversified export markets, a thriving domestic economy and the elimination of foreign debt, President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said Monday.
"We're going to transform this country into a great economy and a great nation," he said on his weekly radio program.
Latin America's largest economy is in the midst of a prolonged boom due to high global demand for from Brazilian ethanol, iron ore and agricultural products and it will grow at least 5 percent annually through 2010, Silva predicted.
Frenzied domestic consumption of big ticket items like homes and cars will continue, Silva said. Brazil has a huge internal market of nearly 190 million consumers
"People are buying more and exports are growing because we don't depend on the United States and Europe alone," Silva said. "Now we're exporting to many more countries around the world, and this leaves us calm in the face of an American crisis."
He praised his own administration for ending the nation's debt crisis. Brazil emerged last week as a net foreign creditor for the first time in history.
Nation traditionally mammoth debt, a long drag on growth "has been built over many years from the mistakes of other administrations, the mistakes that we fixed," Silva said.
Silva said last week that Brazil success in the elimination of its debt means that the country can now use a new debt for improving decaying infrastructure and increase employment.
He is expected to declare 11.3 billion reals (6.6 billion U.S. dollars, euro4.5 billion) in new funding for social programs for withdrawing 2 million Brazilians out of poverty.
Underlying the boom is the high global demand for Brazil vast natural resources. The country is in the world top exporter of beef, chicken, ethanol, iron ore, sugar, coffee and orange juice. Brazil raises second place in the United States for exports of soy.
Two major offshore finds in the state, so Petroleo Brasileiro SA in the past three months could turn Brazil into oil and natural gas exporter and a potential member of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries.

Brazil spends US$10 million on ethanol campaign

2008-02-26T08:00:00.000-08:00

Brazil's trade promotion agency Apex and sugar cane industry association Unica would reportedly undertake a US$10 million campaign aimed at boosting the use of sugar cane-based biofuel, according to media reports. Apex and Unica on Feb. 25 signed a pact that will run until the end of 2009. The campaign will target the United States, Canada, Europe and Asia.
"The aim is to build an international market for biofuel, which is now virtually non-existent," Apex president Alessando Teixeira said in an Agence France-Presse report. Teixeira said the demand for ethanol from crops grows up, but the Brazilian ethanol made from sugar cane, has become the most viable alternative, with a competitive advantage over the corn, beets and other raw materials. "
The United States is the world's largest ethanol producer, with 28 million litres output mostly derived from corn in 2007. Brazil is second with 22 billion litres of ethanol produced from sugar cane.

Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil fail to find gas solution

2008-02-25T04:47:00.000-08:00

The presidents of Argentina, Bolivia and Brazil failed to reach a deal on Saturday to redistribute Bolivia's diminished natural gas exports and give Argentina the larger share it seeks.
Energy ministers will form a crisis group and meet again in ten days to try to reach a solution after Argentina was not able to make Brazil to give up some of its share of Bolivia's natural gas, Argentine Foreign Minister Jorge Taiana told reporters.
"In 10 days the energy ministers will meet in La Paz to seek a solution," Jose Sergio Gabrielli, president of Brazilian state oil firm Petrobras, told reporters after the meeting.
"Argentina asked for 1 million cubic meters of natural gas per day (of those Brazil consumes," but he said Brazil is only willing to sell electric power to Argentina during the winter months.
Bolivia, which also has growing energy demands, has been unable to keep up with promised levels of natural gas exports to its two neighbors, the largest economies in South America.
Argentina and Brazil both produce oil and gas, but not enough to supply their demand in them during peak periods. Bolivian natural gas is a key energy source for Sao Paulo, the hub of Brazil's industrial production.
Fast economic growth on the back of high prices for raw materials such as Argentine and Brazilian soy, Chilean copper and Bolivian natural gas, have made not clear energy shortages a concern in much of South America.

Brazil grows up, Mayor should have asked, those crazy Palm Beachers

2008-02-20T04:47:00.001-08:00

In the years since Lake Worth middle-schooler Nate Brazill shot and killed his teacher at the classroom door, he’s become the 21-year-old go-to jailhouse lawyer in Arcadia. Most a while ago he has composed his own my-lawyer-messed-up claim. He’s hoping for a new trial, conviction on manslaughter and a get-out-of-jail date as soon as 2013, instead of 2028.

The mayor of Jupiter Inlet Colony hired an ex-con and put him up in his apartment but didn’t ask him what it was that he was convicted of big mistake The guy was a former sex offender who then failed to report his new digs. “I did the best I could with the information I had,” Mayor Zuccarelli said. Better information: guy exposed himself to 10 girls ages 4 to 14.

She trusts in long-distance in her psychic. He tapes the conversations for the police. Her ex-husband who once said he locked himself in the nanny’s room to be safe from her is the attorney for her defense. And her rich, drinking - and she-says-drugging - husband is dead at the ripe old age of 44. Her in-laws say she did it. They were egged on by the psychic.

Brazil's Vale, Asian clients agree to 65 per cent price hike for iron ore

2008-02-20T04:46:00.001-08:00

Brazilian mining company Vale announced a deal Monday that will raise iron ore prices 65 per cent for six major Asian clients amid booming global demand for the raw ingredient used to make steel.

Companhia Vale do Rio Doce SA, the world's biggest iron ore producer and owner of Canadian nickel giant Vale Inco, reached an agreement on the new price with South Korean steelmaker Posco and with Japan's Kobe Steel, JFE Steel Corp, Nippon Steel, Nisshin Steel and Sumitomo Metals.

It was the first price arrangement between a central ore producer and big steelmakers, a move that typically sets the bench-mark price for the industry.

Vale, formerly known as CVRD, said in a declaration that prices for iron ore produced at its Southern System mines would rise 65 percent. The price for high-quality ore from the company's Carajas mine in Brazil's Amazon will rise about 71 percent.

"The magnitude of the price growth for 2008 reflects the continuity of very tight conditions still prevailing in the global iron ore market," Vale said.

The deals have been hailed as positive for the world's three major iron ore miners - Vale, Rio Tinto PLC (LSE:RIO) and BHP Billiton Ltd. (NYSE:BHP) - and even for the steel producers. Many had been afraid the steelmakers could have been forced to agree on an even higher price increase given the strong demand for ore.

Brazil says missing laptops have state oilfield secrets

2008-02-20T04:45:00.001-08:00

Information stolen from Brazil's state-run oil company was linked to two huge new offshore petroleum finds, President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said.
In comments to reporters during a trip to Brazil's Antarctic research station, Silva characterized last month's theft of four laptops and two hard drives as "serious" because it involved state secrets. He said that the Brazilian Intelligence Agency was assisting federal police in their investigation.

Petroleo Brasileiro SA has declined to give details about the missed data except to say it was "confidential information" stolen from "equipment and materials that contain important information for the company."

But Petrobras told officials the information affects Brazil's national interests, police said.

News of the theft was made public last week, but Silva's comments were the first official affirmation that the data stolen was related to the big petroleum finds.

Police says the four notebooks and two hard drives were in the ownership of Houston-based oil services company Halliburton Co. and were stolen last month while being transported from the coastal city of Santos to Macae in Rio de Janeiro state, where much of Petrobras' offshore investigation effort is centered.

Halliburton referred questions to Petrobras, which refused to comment.

Pranab Mukherjee to visit Brazil

2008-02-19T02:08:00.000-08:00

External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee will begin a week-long tour to Brazil and South Africa from Saturday to strengthen political and economic ties between India and the two countries.

During his visit, issues relating to the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) dialogue will be discussed ahead of the next summit, which is scheduled for later this year.

Several bilateral agreements are expected to be signed during Mukherjee's visit.

Foremost of his six-day tour, Mukherjee will visit Brazil capital Brazilia for three days to review the progress made in the bilateral relationship.

Leaders of countries will also negotiate on some issues, including partnership in the agriculture, human resources development, science and technology, and renewable and non-renewable energy.

Then, collaboration in sports is also expected to be taken up, particularly on the involving of football coaches from Brazil.

In the past, Brazil and India have been coordinating on several international issues, including UN reforms and the WTO, and bilateral and under multilateral frameworks like IBSA and G-20.

Bilateral trade with Brazil crossed the three billion dollar benchmark last year.

Mukherjee will also launch a two-day visit to South Africa from February 21.

The two sides will sign four agreements: an agreement on visa-free travel by the holders of diplomatic and official passports, and agreements in areas of customs, agriculture and science and technology.

JetBlue's founder wants to start Brazilian airline, buy 36 Embraer jets

2008-02-19T02:07:00.001-08:00

The founder of JetBlue Airways wants to start a new Brazilian airline and is in negotiations with Brazil's Embraer plane maker to buy 36 mid-range jets.

David Neeleman, JetBlue's chairman, has lined up investment totaling about $200 million for the venture, the O Estado de S. Paulo newspaper reported.

The newspaper, citing sources close to the deal, said Neeleman has already bought a small Brazilian airline named Cheta with government authorization to operate in Latin America's largest nation.

A message left for Neeleman was not immediately returned. Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica SA had no immediate comment.

Neeleman was fired as chief executive of JetBlue Airways Corp. last year after the low-fare airline was gridlocked following a U.S. ice storm that created problems for the carrier's policy of not canceling flights ahead of bad weather.

Because Neeleman holds both American and Brazilian citizenship, he would be able to overcome a major hurdle: A requirement that only 20% of Brazilian airlines can be owned by foreigners.

The entry of a new carrier in Brazil would notice the first major competition for Brazilian market leaders TAM Linhas Aereas SA and Gol Linhas Aereas Intelligentes SA in some years, following the come down former Brazilian leader carrier Varig under a huge of debt.

Varig's passenger flight operations were sold to Gol, which is running far fewer Varig flights than when the carrier was Brazil's leading airline.

Brazil to expand Antarctic base

2008-02-19T02:05:00.000-08:00

Brazil

intends to increase its influence in Antarctica, President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said today after visiting the region with his wife, son and several government officials.

"We are going to have to expand our presence here with more investments and laboratory ships,'' Silva told reporters covering his trip, which was held over 24 hours by bad weather.

"We will also have to improve the base and bring in more researchers."

Silva visited his country's Commandante Ferraz Antarctic base, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary. Brazilian scientists there go with meteorological, oceanographic and biological studies, in addition to research involving nuclear geophysics and geomagnetism.

He also stopped at the Brazil Antarctic Program's main support vessel, the Ary Rongel, and at Chile's Eduardo Frei base.

Some 28 nations operate seasonal and permanent research stations on Antarctica and nearby islands. No single nation has control over any segment of the continent, which is ruled by the Antarctic Treaty System and designated as a natural reserve dedicated to peace and science.

President Hugo Chavez of Venezuela, Brazil's South American neighbor, recently expressed interest in establishing that country's first base on Antarctica.

Intelligentias Extends Its Business in Brazil

2008-02-15T07:22:00.000-08:00

Intelligentias, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: ITLI), today announced the sale of new licenses of its massively-scalable Retentia Data Retention Suite (DRS) to a large telecommunications company in Brazil.
The sales contract, which Intelligentias' Italian Branch signed with one of its strategic partners, Siemens IT Solutions and Services, extends Intelligentias' global reach and strengthens its reputation as a major player in the data retention space.
"We're proud of our long association with Intelligentias," said Osmar Passos, sales director SIS Brazil. "Few companies are as well positioned technologically and strategically to help telecommunications companies that are scrambling to meet the growing demands of governments, law enforcement and national security agencies for quick access to actionable data."
"This is a big win for us," said Nicola Di Tomaso, President of Intelligentias' Italian Branch. "The telcos are under pressure as never before to comply with requests for data from law enforcement officials, and the Retentia DRS helps them do just that."
The financial terms of the new licenses were not disclosed.
Intelligentias is a leading data retention and management company that provides data capture, archiving and tracing solutions for telecommunication companies, Internet service providers, enterprises and law enforcement agencies all over the world. Intelligentias' Retentia Data
Retention Suite (DRS) enables telcos and ISPs to assist law enforcement agencies in locating and prosecuting terrorists and criminals and to stay in compliance with federal legislation and directives, faster and for less money than competing solutions.

Bolivia, Brazil, Argentina leaders try to avert looming energy crisis

2008-02-15T07:21:00.000-08:00

Bolivian President Evo Morales said Thursday he will meet with the leaders of Brazil and Argentina to try to resolve a possible energy crisis because the Andean nation may be unable to supply enough natural gas to meet the needs of its power-hungry neighbors.
While Bolivian officials have said they can meet the needs of Argentina and Brazil this year, increased demand by the two nations could mean shortages in 2009. Natural gas is a key energy source for Brazil and Argentina, which have South America's largest economies.
Morales suggested that the three leaders can probably fashion some sort of plan that would allow Bolivia to divert shipments planned for one country to the other nation when the need arises.
"We will study this between presidents to seek a certain balance in the distribution of natural gas," Morales told a news conference. "Sometimes you have to send more to Brazil or more to Argentina, taking into account the seasons, especially winter, when it's most needed."
Brazil gets about half its natural gas from Bolivia - between 27 million and 29 million cubic meters daily - while Argentine generally buys between 3 and 5 million cubic meters each day.
Bolivian Vice President Alvaro Garcia Linera said this week he expects demand from both countries to jump by as much as 7 million cubic meters daily in 2009. Bolivia's natural gas industry, suffering from tepid foreign investment following Morales' 2006 nationalization, will be hard-pressed to match the increase.
Facing energy shortages at home, both Brazil and Argentina have looked to Bolivia to meet their growing need for the fuel. Last year Argentina signed an ambitious contract drastically increasing the amount of gas it will buy from Bolivia in coming decades.
Meanwhile, Brazil's state energy company Petroleo Brasileiro SA - once frightened off its future Bolivian projects by Morales' nationalization - has publically considered once again investing in the country's valuable gas fields, South America's second largest after Venezuela.

TEXT-Dutch SBM signs $1.25 bln Brazilian deal

2008-02-15T07:18:00.000-08:00

Further to a previous statement dated 8th of January 2008, SBM Offshore now advises that the formal agreement has been signed with Petrobras for the turnkey supply of the P-57 FPSO to be installed on Jubarte field offshore Brazil.
This contract represents a portfolio value of $1.25 billion inclusive of three years of operating services. It represents a major share in SBM's business growth as this unit is one size up from previously supplied or leased FPSOs. The facility will have the capacity to produce 180 000 barrels per day of oil with total gas compression of 71 MMscfd.
The FPSO is likely to be listed in Singapore using one of the SBM VLCC tankers from its inventory - the 'Accord'. Integration of the topsides is planned to be performed in Brazil in adequacy with new local content requirements.
The delivery of the unit in Brazil, ready for installation, is planned for end of 2010.

Brasil Investments

2008-02-14T05:43:00.000-08:00

Banco do Brasil Investments and Portugal's Banif SGPS SA founded a private equity fund to invest 600 million real’s ($344 million) in Brazil, Valor reported today, citing executives from both companies.
The fund plans to invest in companies with earnings between 300 million reals and 800 million real’s, according Brazilian newspaper.
It's interested in companies that plan on selling shares on the stock market, Valor said, citing Marcos Rechtman of Banif's private-equity division.
The fund will buy shares of about 20 percent in each company, Valor added, citing Francisco Duda, head of the capital markets unit at Banc do Brasil Investments.

Brazil Currency Preview

2008-02-14T05:42:00.000-08:00

Monthly inflation slowed in January for the first time in four months as food prices depreciated.
Consumer prices, as measured by the benchmark IPCA index, rose 0.54 per cent in January, lower then a 0.74 percent jump in December. The growth was less than the average forecast of 0.60 percent in a Blomberg survey of 29 economists.
The real rose 0.39 per cent to 1.7426 per dollar.
The yield on the zero-coupon, real-expressed bond due in January 2009 fell 13 basis points or 0.13 percentage point, to 11.755 percent, according to Banco Votorantim SA

Brazil's oil company is bright spot in region

2008-02-14T05:41:00.000-08:00

For most of Latin America's state oil companies, these are hardly serene days: Although high global prices have lifted revenue, crude oil production is either in decline or moving sideways.
Brazil's oil prospecting company Petrobras has doubled its oil output over the past decade to 2.2 million barrels a day and joined the ranks of the world's major producers. Petrobras' deep-water discoveries off Brazil's coast, such as the Tupi oil field declared in November, plus invasive energy exploration around the world - from the U.S. Gulf Coast to West Africa, Turkey and Colombia - have captured investors' attention.
Analysts say the Brazilian government's decision to open the company up to extern investors, to break its monopoly on the nation's oil fields and to push the company to develop deep-water drilling technology were critical to its growth. But the company's adventuresome spirit is also paying dividends.

Brazil's real little changed.

2008-02-14T01:30:00.001-08:00

Brazil's real was little changed after a report showed inflation slowed for the first time in four months, easing speculation the central bank will increase interest rates in the next several months.
The benchmark IPCA index of consumer prices decreased to 0.54 per cent last month from 0.74 per cent in December. The median prognosis of 29 economists asked by Bloomberg News was for a reading of 0.60 percent.
``The pace of inflation has been a concern for the past months, so the result in January is positive,'' said currency trading manager at Treviso Corretora de Cambio. ``Nobody feels very comfortable investing in a country where inflation is out of control.''
The real was little changed at 1.7487 reals per dollar at 7:49 a.m. New York time, compared with 1.7495 yesterday.
Futures contracts show traders are predictinging the Brazilian central bank will cut borrowing costs this year. The yield on the interbank deposits future rate contract due in January 2009, the most actively traded contract of its kind on Brazil's Commodities and Futures Exchange, was 11.72 percent today, compared with 11.83 percent yesterday.
The central bank kept the lending rate at 11.25 per cent on Jan. 23 for a third straight meeting.
The yield on Brazil's zero-coupon bond due in January 2009 fell 7 basis points, or 0.07 percentage point, to 11.82 percent, according to Banco Votorantim SA.