Latin 100 2003: Brazilian banks profit as foreigners quit

With inflation falling in Brazil, the days when banks could grow fat on government paper are almost over. New business lines, consolidation and retrenchment are high on the agenda and there are persistent rumours that Citibank will beef up its presence in Latin America's biggest economy.

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BRAZIL HAS SOME of the most profitable banks in the world. Returns on equity regularly exceed 40%, and institutions such as Banco Itaú are often held up as models of professionalism and excellence.

As Brazil struggles out of its latest economic crisis, however, its banking system will have to change radically, and start making money in areas it has long neglected. What’s more, the biggest player in international banking, Citibank, could make its long-awaited move into the country at any time.

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