We’re covering the outlook of the novel coronavirus outbreak in Brazil. The country’s latest industrial numbers. And a massive deal for the telecom sector in sight.
Dealing with the novel coronavirus
The number of confirmed Covid-19 infections in Brazil reached 34 on Tuesday, while suspected cases dropped from 930 to 893 since Monday. According to projections by the Health Ministry, the worst-case scenario would have infections skyrocketing within the next two and a half weeks—during which demand for healthcare services would grow substantially, especially as this novel coronavirus surge could coincide with the beginning of the flu season.
Action plan. Health Minister Luiz Henrique Mandetta met with the heads of five of the best hospitals in Brazil—asking them to direct staff and resources allocated to serving the public health service to fight the upcoming epidemic.
Economic measures. The Senate’s Economic Affairs Committee has invited Economy Minister Paulo Guedes to explain how his office plans to deal with the impacts of the outbreak—but the minister may decline the invitation.
Mr. Guedes has used the moment of high market volatility to bang the drum for structural reform. In a letter to the heads of both congressional houses, Mr. Guedes urged the approval...