FX.co ★ Brazilian Real Falls to August Lows

The Brazilian real experienced a significant depreciation, falling to 5.48 against the US dollar, its lowest point since August 20. This decline is attributed to a widespread aversion to risk in global markets, stemming from fears of contagion. A major factor driving the selloff is the growing anxiety over Brazil's escalating fiscal deficit and doubts surrounding the government's ability to curb expenditures effectively. Market confidence took a further hit following the rejection of an alternative proposal to the scrapped IOF tax hike, which would have adjusted taxation on financial investments and digital assets. Exacerbating fiscal concerns, President Lula introduced a new housing finance initiative designed to broaden mortgage accessibility ahead of the 2026 election, a move critics argue could further strain the national budget. As investors turn to the US dollar for security, Brazil’s central bank is likely monitoring the situation closely. Nonetheless, the real remains susceptible to both domestic fiscal challenges and fluctuating global market dynamics.