Ibovespa Ends Lower as Inflation and Political Risks Weigh
2026-05-18 20:43
By
Isabela Couto
1 min. read
The Ibovespa slipped 0.2% to close at 176,976 on Monday as investors assessed weaker economic data, rising inflation concerns, political developments, and stalled US-Iran peace talks.
Brazil’s IBC-Br economic activity index contracted more than expected in March, while the Finance Ministry sharply raised its inflation forecasts and now expects consumer prices to remain above target through at least 2027 due to the Middle East conflict.
Meanwhile, Brazil’s Federal Police are investigating payments made by Daniel Vorcaro to Flávio Bolsonaro and a possible transfer involving Eduardo Bolsonaro.
Banks traded lower, with Itaú down 0.2% and Banco do Brasil losing 1.3%.
Vale fell 2% on weaker iron ore prices, while CSN Mineração plunged 9.3% after reporting lower first-quarter revenue.
In contrast, Petrobras gained 2.1% as oil prices advanced.