FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2009

CORPORATE PROGRAM

BRAZIL’S MOMENT IN THE SPOTLIGHT?

Paulo Vieira da Cunha, Head of Emerging Markets Research, Tandem Global Partners
Luis J. Mateus, Group President, Illinois Tool Works

Although included in the BRIC acronym, Brazil has been overshadowed in recent years by the dominance of China and India. As the worldwide economy now languishes in recession, many companies and investors are looking for new opportunities for global growth. Brazil’s economy is showing signs that it may finally be living up to its potential. The Economist has said Brazil may be the first to grow out of the recession, and its assets are eye-catching: a domestic market of over 190 million people, half of whom are middle-class; diversified strength across industries such as retail, commodities, energy, and agribusiness; distinct openness to trade, posting a growing trade surplus of $14 billion in the first half of 2009; and a stable democracy and financial system fortified by reforms in the 1990s. Yet, uncertainty remains about how seriously Brazil’s government will reduce obstacles for growth and investment, such as high taxes and rigid labor laws. Join us for a discussion with experts who will consider if Brazil will emerge from global recession with a stronger economy and become a more attractive investment market.

Paulo Vieira da Cunha is head of research at Tandem Global Partners, a consultant to the International Monetary Fund and a visiting scholar at Columbia University. He was deputy governor of the Central Bank of Brazil and a representative to the G20 until January 2008. He serves on various boards, including the board of directors of the Brazilian American Chamber of Commerce. For nearly a decade, he produced and managed research on Latin America for the global securities industry, first at Lehman Brothers and later at HSBC. He also worked in research, policy and management at the World Bank, including as senior advisor to chief economist Joseph Stiglitz.

Luis J. Mateus is group president at Illinois Tool Works, responsible for the ITW Industrial Packaging Business Segment in the emerging markets comprising Latin America, China, India, Russia, and Eastern Europe. His group has manufacturing operations in Brazil, Mexico, India, Kenya, and Thailand.  Mr. Mateus joined ITW in 1979 and has held various engineering, marketing, and senior management positions. In 1991 he started directing the ITW Signode expansion into Latin America, including setting up manufacturing and sales operations in Brazil and Mexico and overseeing acquisitions.

This event has been made possible by

The Chicago Club
81 East Van Buren Street
Chicago, IL 60605
Business attire is required.

7:30 a.m.  Registration and Continental Breakfast
8:00 a.m.  Remarks and Discussion
9:15 a.m.  Adjournment

Members $15
Nonmembers $25

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