Atlanta Welcomes the Return of the Brazil Economic Outlook Briefing
Exciting times are ahead for Atlanta as a long-standing event makes a comeback after a pandemic break. Mark your calendars for December 4th because that’s when the well-known Brazil Economic Outlook briefing is set to return to the city. Georgia’s capital has always been a hub for international business, and this event plays a critical role in keeping those connections vibrant and informed.
Once a regular fixture throughout the 2010s, the Brazilian-American Chamber of Commerce Southeast is reviving its signature event at the Americas Center, in partnership with the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta. For years, this event provided valuable insights into the dynamic and often challenging Brazilian economy.
The Brazilian Roller Coaster
It’s been a whirlwind for Brazil over the last decade. After the esteemed Workers’ Party President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva left office in 2010, the country saw President Dilma Rousseff embroiled in the Petrobras scandal which led to her downfall in 2016. Lula himself faced jail time due to bribery charges, paving the way for President Jair Bolsonaro, known as the “Tropical Trump,” due to his controversial style and election controversies.
The last Economic Forecast meeting held just before global COVID-19 disruptions in January 2020 saw Bolsonaro dismissing the pandemic as a “little flu.” Fast forward to today, Lula is back on the political stage with the Supreme Court tossing out his conviction in 2021, helping him narrowly top Bolsonaro in the 2022 elections. This unpredictable bounce-back has intrigued international investors, making it perfect timing for an update.
What to Expect This Year
This year’s briefing isn’t just about dusting off the cobwebs. It’s a fresh opportunity to connect, discuss, and dissect the current Brazil-USA economic relations. The Brazilian-American Chamber, reinvigorated under the guidance of its Board Chairman and President, has been bustling with activity. In 2023, it hosted several impactful events focusing on investment opportunities in Brazil and entrepreneurial guidance for Brazilians in the U.S., all facilitated with the enthusiastic support of the Brazilian Consulate.
When December 4 arrives, expect to see some familiar faces offering their expertise once again. Among the speakers is Otaviano Canuto, a familiar name and former World Bank VP, alongside Thomas Rogers of Emory University. Sharing insights with them will be Daniel Almeida from XP Inc., and Ricardo Oliveira of Delta Air Lines. They’ll be diving into what’s new and noteworthy, discussing short-term forecasts and looking ahead at the long-term hurdles and opportunities in Brazil-USA relations.
Why It Matters
Atlanta has long served as a home base for significant Brazilian investment. From manufacturing giants like WEG and Taurus to Guidoni Group setting roots in the state, the connections are strong and abundant. Similarly, renowned Georgian companies such as Coca-Cola, and others, maintain significant operations in Brazil, furthering the economic interdependence.
While the recent U.S. elections didn’t shine a spotlight on foreign policies concerning Brazil, this event brings Brazilian economic intricacies back into focus for Georgian businesses and investors. It’s a fitting re-entry into the discourse for an event and a region that thrives on international cooperation and opportunity.
If you’ve got an eye on the future or a stake in Brazilian business affairs, this event is one to watch. And for Atlanta, a city that values its global ties, it’s sure to be illuminating, insightful, and a reminder that the world truly is on its doorstep.
