The dollar opened lower in Brazil despite an increase in the US dollar value against other currencies, as the economic activity index IBC-Br showed better results than expected.
On Thursday, the dollar started lower in Brazil, contrary to the rise of the US dollar against other currencies globally. Key factors influencing this movement include the release of the IBC-Br (Economic Activity Index of the Central Bank) and ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran. At 9:55 AM, the dollar was down 0.12%, trading at R$ 5.235, while in the international market, the DXY index reflecting the dollar's strength against six major currencies rose by 0.18.
According to data released by the Central Bank, Brazil's economic activity ended 2025 with a growth rate of 2.5%, showcasing renewed momentum in the fourth quarter driven by agriculture and services sectors. The IBC-Br, regarded as a preliminary indicator of Brazil's GDP, exhibited a 0.2% decrease in December compared to the previous month, which was better than the anticipated 0.5% contraction predicted by a Reuters poll.
Cristiane Quartaroli, Chief Economist at Ouribank, highlighted that the IBC-Br results surpassed market expectations, indicating a more resilient economic performance than many analysts had forecasted. This positive sentiment may influence investor confidence and potential economic policymaking amidst global financial dynamics, particularly in light of geopolitical tensions between the US and Iran affecting international markets.
