Latin America’s Grey Market Gets a Boost from Economic Deceleration

The purchasing power of Latin American consumers and businesses has been dramatically reduced by the recent devaluations of local currencies. Imported goods quickly become inaccessible but the demand for them remains high, creating a perfect opportunity for informal distribution channels to supply consumers. However, managers at the local and global level can initiate preventative measures to reduce informal activity and help protect their bottom-line.

The Ever-Changing Brazilian Banking Industry: Consolidation and opportunities

The year 2008 will be marked as a milestone for the banking segment in Brazil. Banco Itaú and Unibanco, the second and fourth largest non-public banks, joined forces to form not only the largest bank but also the fourth largest conglomerate in Latin America. This strategic union radically transforms an already highly-competitive sector that will see further consolidation in coming years.

Risk Mapping: How companies can strategically respond to new pressures

Regardless of whether or not new regulations on financial systems and capital markets are adopted, investors are becoming increasingly selective and establishing parameters to hold parties accountable for misconduct. Forward-thinking firms are responding to this pressure by re-evaluating their risk management, particularly in the areas of corporate governance and information systems.