"I believe that every single one of us, celebrity or not, has a responsibility to get involved in trying to make a difference in the world." - Shakira (Colombian singer)
May 2, End Of Day
Latin America’s largest investment bank, BTG Pactual, is making a bold push to become a global commodities powerhouse, positioning Brazil as a central pillar of global food security. Chairman André Esteves believes Brazil could supply 80% of the world’s additional food demand over the next two decades, and he wants BTG to be at the heart of that transformation.
From Trading Desk to Conglomerate
BTG Pactual has evolved far beyond investment banking:
Beyond Commodities: Port of Entry and Exit for Latin America
BTG’s vision goes beyond food and agriculture. Esteves is building it into a gateway for capital flows, offering Latin American investors access to Europe and the U.S., and vice versa.
BTG Pactual is positioning itself to play a larger role in Brazil’s growing importance as a global food supplier, expanding beyond investment banking into broader development and commodity logistics activities.
Brazil: The Lula government plans to raise $2 billion through a new Eco Invest Brazil auction focused on restoring degraded pastures. The blended finance initiative, combining $1 billion in public funds with at least $1 billion in private capital, will support sustainable land use without increasing deforestation. At least 60% of funds must be sourced internationally. The program is part of Brazil’s broader ecological transformation strategy.
Colombia: The IMF has effectively blocked Colombia's access to its $8.1 billion Flexible Credit Line (FCL) after the government failed to complete a required Article IV review. Though the FCL is intended as a precautionary tool, access depends on strong economic fundamentals and sound policies—criteria Colombia currently struggles to meet amid fiscal instability. The delay follows leadership changes in the finance ministry and growing concerns about the country’s ability to meet its fiscal targets. Until the review is completed, Colombia remains ineligible to tap the credit line.
Mexico: Mexico will increase water deliveries to Texas under a 1944 treaty to address a shortfall affecting U.S. farmers, the USDA said. The agreement follows weeks of negotiations and comes despite drought conditions in Mexico. Mexico will boost U.S. water shares from Rio Grande tributaries through October, while also prioritizing domestic water needs.
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💳 The Realities of Digital Financial Inclusion in Latin America
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