Brazil Markets Weigh Softer U.S. Jobs Data as U.S. Confirms Venezuelan Oil Sales

Overview

• ADP reported 41,000 private-sector jobs added in December and JOLTS openings fell to about 7.1 million in November, signaling a cooling U.S. labor market that investors see as consistent with rate cuts later in 2026.
• On Thursday, initial U.S. jobless claims registered 208,000 and nonfarm productivity rose 4.9% annualized in the third quarter, keeping focus on Friday’s official payrolls.
• The U.S. Department of Energy said sales of Venezuelan oil to the United States have begun and will continue, with proceeds deposited in U.S.-controlled accounts.
• Brazilian assets reflected caution on Wednesday as the Ibovespa fell about 1.03% to 161,975 and the dollar closed near R$5.386, with banks weaker while Petrobras and Vale limited broader losses.
• Domestic uncertainty persisted as the TCU president said any reversal of Banco Master’s liquidation belongs to the Supreme Court, Valor reported a likely suspension of a TCU inspection of the Central Bank, and Otto Lobo’s nomination to lead the CVM drew market concern while investors awaited IBGE industrial production and the upcoming IPCA.