The Ibovespa slipped 0.7% to close at 173,787 on Friday, as stronger-than-expected GDP figures reinforced the perception that the current Selic easing cycle may be nearing its limits. Brazil’s economy expanded 1.1% in the first quarter compared with the previous three months, accelerating from a 0.3% increase in Q4 2025 and posting its fastest quarterly growth since Q1 2025. The data bolstered expectations of a more hawkish stance from the BCB, pushing bond yields higher and pressuring equities.
Banks led the declines, with Bradesco down 1.1% and Banco do Brasil off 1.5%. Petrobras lost 1.2% as oil prices retreated following an agreement to extend the US-Iran ceasefire, which renewed hopes for a resolution to the Middle East conflict. Vale also slipped 1.4%, despite a rise in iron ore prices.
