GreyRhino newsletter Edition May 2025

Written By The iMB.Solutions Team 🇧🇷
 

Discover the GreyRhino Newsletter by iMB.Solutions!

Stay ahead of the curve with the GreyRhino newsletter, your go-to source for insightful analysis and expert commentary straight out of the project missions. Curated by iMB.Solutions, this newsletter dives deep into the "grey rhino" events—highly probable, high-impact threats that we often overlook.

 
 

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Expert Insights: Gain access to Frank P. Neuhaus's unique perspectives and in-depth analysis on global risks and opportunities.

Timely Updates: Stay informed with the latest developments and trends that could impact your business and personal life.

Actionable Advice: Learn practical strategies to navigate and mitigate risks, ensuring you're always prepared for what's next.

Join a community of forward-thinking professionals who are committed to staying informed and proactive. Don't miss out on the valuable knowledge and insights shared in the GreyRhino newsletter.

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Prime Story

IMF Forecast Paints Mixed Picture for Latin America - Mexico Faces Recession, Argentina Sees Optimism, Food Prices Remain a Persistent Threat

São Paulo — April 30, 2025 — The International Monetary Fund (IMF) released its updated World Economic Outlook in April, offering a sobering snapshot of Latin America’s near-term economic trajectory. The region faces a complex mixture of stagnating growth, persistent inflation, and growing policy dilemmas—most notably in Mexico, which is now projected to enter a recession.

Mexico: Economic Storm Clouds Gather

The IMF slashed its 2025 growth forecast for Mexico by 1.7 percentage points, now predicting a -0.3% contraction. Modest growth of just 1.4% is expected in 2026. The downturn poses a serious political and fiscal challenge for President Claudia Sheinbaum, whose administration may be forced to increase public spending to stimulate the economy and maintain support through the country’s social safety net.

Compounding the issue is Mexico’s mounting debt burden from its state oil company, Pemex. Meanwhile, the country’s central bank is constrained by high inflation and a strong currency, limiting its ability to cut interest rates quickly. Global markets are likely to respond negatively to any expansionary fiscal policy, creating a potential spiral of weakened investor confidence and constrained economic recovery.

"Stagflation Light" for Most of the Region

While Mexico heads into contraction, most other Latin American economies are expected to maintain positive—albeit slow—growth. The IMF warned of what it calls “stagflation light,” a combination of sluggish economic expansion and stubborn inflation across the region.

  • Brazil is expected to grow by 2% in 2025 with inflation projected at 5.3%.

  • Colombia is forecast at 2.4% growth and 4.7% inflation.

Though technically growing, these figures are unlikely to translate into improved public sentiment—especially with presidential elections looming in both countries in 2026. The political imperative to boost short-term economic results could drive governments to spend more, potentially worsening inflation in the long term.

Peru Outpaces Regional Peers

Peru stands out as a relative bright spot. The country is forecast to grow by 2.8% in 2025 with inflation at a low 1.7%. While not a "Peruvian miracle," this performance is notable given the country’s recent political turbulence. Compared to its neighbors, Peru's macroeconomic stability is a welcome exception.

Bolivia Faces a Deepening Crisis

At the other end of the spectrum lies Bolivia, which continues to grapple with a worsening economic crisis. The IMF projects just 1% GDP growth alongside a staggering 15% inflation rate through 2026. With elections later this year, the incoming government—if led by the opposition—will inherit a deeply troubled economy, potentially triggering a new wave of political instability.

Argentina: Optimism or Wishful Thinking?

🌎 IMF Shows Optimism for Argentina – Reality or Wishful Thinking?

In a surprisingly upbeat assessment, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is currently optimistic about Argentina: for 2025, it forecasts an impressive GDP growth of 5.5%, while inflation is expected to be "only" 36% this year – and could drop to 15% next year. (Yes, you read that right: in Argentina, 36% inflation counts as good news.)

Of course, a more cynical view is also possible:

The IMF, which recently released another $20 billion to Argentina, has a vested interest in portraying the country as stable and on the road to success. A crash would not only be a disaster for the Argentine people – it would also be a major hit to the Fund’s own balance sheet. While the IMF’s analysts are formally independent, a healthy dose of skepticism toward these numbers feels justified.

During the press conference, a journalist asked the obvious question: Why is Argentina’s inflation still so high when it’s falling elsewhere?

The official answer? Well – Argentina is supposedly on a blossoming path filled with economic unicorns and blooming roses. However, it was also admitted that serious risks remain: both domestically – through potential policy missteps – and externally due to global economic uncertainties.

What does this mean for us and, of course, our clients?

Whether or not you buy into the optimistic forecasts, one thing is clear: Argentina remains a fascinating but challenging playing field. The opportunities are there – but only for those willing to manage risks wisely and evaluate scenarios realistically.

👉 Our Takeaway:

Investing or expanding business in Argentina in 2025 will require a smart mix of courage, clear-eyed risk assessment, and flexible action. Those who prepare today can profit tomorrow – or, to put it the Argentine way: "Aprovechá la oportunidad mientras el viento sopla a favor." (Take advantage of the opportunity while the wind is at your back.)

Food Prices: An Old Problem That Won’t Go Away

Despite waning headlines, food inflation remains a critical concern. According to the IMF, a resurgence in food and energy prices—driven by climate-related disasters and commodity fragmentation—could worsen living conditions across Latin America. The FAO Food Price Index, released earlier this month, sits at 127—well above the 2023 and 2024 averages and higher in real terms than during the Arab Spring.

Food-exporting nations like Argentina and Brazil may benefit from elevated prices, but much of the region, especially low-income countries, faces heightened food insecurity.

Emerging Trends: Demographics, AI, and Energy

Beyond the short-term forecasts, the IMF highlighted several long-term forces reshaping the global economy, including aging demographics, migration, artificial intelligence, and rising energy demand. These structural shifts may significantly impact Latin American economies in the coming decades, though the report did not provide detailed projections beyond the current two-year window.

Currency Movements and the Dollar Dilemma

Finally, the IMF noted that most Latin American currencies have strengthened. The Trump administration’s push for a weaker U.S. dollar—combined with ongoing tariff battles—presents additional challenges for exporters. A weaker dollar reduces the purchasing power of remittances, particularly affecting Mexico and Central America, where many families rely on cross-border income.

The IMF’s report underscores a region at a crossroads—struggling with post-pandemic fragility, geopolitical headwinds, and inflation that won’t quit. While pockets of resilience remain, the next two years may prove politically and economically turbulent for many Latin American nations. —Frank P. Neuhaus

 
 

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The LatAm Story

Green Light for Atómico 3 – Argentina’s Lithium-Backed Cryptocurrency Moves Forward

Argentina’s most ambitious crypto-mining project takes a big step forward with regulatory approval and strategic partnerships.

Atómico 3, the pioneering lithium-backed cryptocurrency from Argentina, has officially received approval from the National Securities Commission (CNV), marking a key milestone in its roadmap to becoming a global player in the digital asset ecosystem.

After launching in August 2024 and operating with a modest volume of around USD 65,000, Atómico 3 is now positioned to scale up. The crypto asset has been registered within the CNV’s Virtual Asset Service Providers (PSAV) framework, allowing it to legally operate in the country’s virtual asset market. This approval not only adds regulatory legitimacy but also strengthens trust in its business model built on transparency and blockchain-based traceability.

The Tokenization of Lithium: A Bold Vision

The idea of tokenizing lithium—a vital mineral for the global energy transition—was introduced with Atómico 3’s debut. Unlike traditional cryptocurrencies, Atómico 3 is backed by actual physical reserves of lithium. But the innovation goes further: the project plans to assign value to lithium reserves through an internal model that tokenizes the entire supply chain.

According to Pablo Rutigliano, CEO of Atómico 3 and President of the Latin American Lithium Chamber, “This asset doesn’t just tokenize physical reserves. It projects value across the entire value chain using a flowchart model that brings end-to-end visibility and efficiency to the process.”

With blockchain at its core, Atómico 3 promises to deliver not only price prediction and supply chain stability but also greater democratization of access for investors—both small and institutional.

Strategic Partnerships: Cardano Joins the Mission

In a major boost to the project, Atómico 3 recently formed an alliance with Cardano, one of the most respected blockchain platforms globally. Charles Hoskinson, Cardano’s founder, commented, “Lithium is central to the energy transition. Supporting a project like Atómico 3 aligns with Cardano’s mission to deliver scalable blockchain solutions for real-world challenges.”

Cardano will supply the blockchain infrastructure, while partner Zengate will assist with market implementation, adding credibility and technical robustness to the Argentine initiative.

What’s Next for Atómico 3?

The roadmap ahead includes a push for listing on high-impact platforms such as Binance and CoinMarketCap, significantly expanding the cryptocurrency’s visibility and market reach.

Additionally, the team is in the final stages of launching the Crypto Lithium Index, a benchmark that will help in valuing lithium-based digital and mining assets. “This index will be a pillar for forecasting, valuation, and creating liquidity in the lithium market,” noted Rutigliano.

The project also aims to tackle a long-standing issue in the mining sector: under-invoicing of natural resources by multinational companies. By digitizing ownership rights and automating processes through blockchain, Atómico 3 hopes to eliminate middlemen, reduce risks, and bring transparency to a critical industry.

Growing Momentum

Despite its early stage, Atómico 3 has already attracted over 11,400 holders, a testament to the growing confidence in asset-backed crypto in Latin America. As the tokenization of real-world assets gains traction globally, Argentina’s lithium crypto experiment could become a blueprint for resource-rich nations seeking more efficient and equitable ways to manage their natural wealth.

With full tokenization development expected by the end of 2025, Atómico 3 stands at the crossroads of digital innovation and sustainable resource management—ushering in a new era for mining, finance, and blockchain technology in Latin America.

Subscribe to our newsletter for more insights on blockchain innovation, emerging markets, and the future of digital assets. —iMB.Solutions ARG Team 🇦🇷

 
 

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From the Newsroom of Industry

GWM Revs Up Brazil's Green Future with Hydrogen Commercial Vehicles and USP Partnership

São Paulo is buzzing with the news that Chinese automotive giant, Great Wall Motors (GWM) (interesting link from GWM; all video clips were recorded in Brazil), is making a significant push into the Brazilian market with a bold commitment to hydrogen-powered commercial vehicles. Adding to this exciting development, GWM has also announced a strategic Research and Development (R&D) partnership with the prestigious University of São Paulo (USP), right here in our vibrant city.

This two-pronged approach signals GWM's serious intent to not only introduce cutting-edge green technology to Brazil but also to foster local innovation and talent in the burgeoning field of sustainable mobility.

Hydrogen on the Horizon: A Greener Fleet for Brazil

GWM's revelation to bring hydrogen-based commercial vehicles to Brazil is a significant step towards decarbonizing the country's transportation sector. While electric vehicles have rightly garnered much attention, hydrogen fuel cell technology offers a compelling alternative, particularly for heavy-duty applications like trucks and buses.

Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCEVs) offer several advantages, including rapid refueling times and zero tailpipe emissions, producing only water vapor. This aligns perfectly with Brazil's growing focus on environmental sustainability and its vast potential in renewable energy sources that can be used to produce green hydrogen.

GWM's commitment suggests a long-term vision for hydrogen infrastructure development in Brazil. Introducing commercial vehicles will likely spur demand for hydrogen refueling stations and the establishment of a robust supply chain, paving the way for wider adoption of this clean technology.

Knowledge Sharing for a Sustainable Tomorrow: GWM and USP

The partnership between GWM and the University of São Paulo is a powerful combination of industry expertise and academic rigor. USP, a leading institution in Latin America, boasts world-class research facilities and a wealth of knowledge in engineering and technology.

This R&D collaboration will undoubtedly focus on exploring the potential of hydrogen technology within the Brazilian context. Areas of potential research could include:

  • Developing hydrogen fuel cell systems optimized for Brazilian conditions: This could involve adapting the technology to local climate and infrastructure.

  • Investigating sustainable hydrogen production methods: Brazil's strong position in ethanol production could be a key area of focus, exploring innovative pathways to produce green hydrogen from this renewable resource.

  • Training the next generation of hydrogen technology experts: Collaboration with USP will provide invaluable opportunities for Brazilian students and researchers to gain expertise in this cutting-edge field.

  • Exploring the integration of hydrogen vehicles into Brazil's existing transportation network: This research could address logistical challenges and identify optimal use cases for hydrogen-powered commercial fleets.

A Win-Win for Brazil

GWM's initiatives represent a significant opportunity for Brazil. The introduction of hydrogen commercial vehicles can contribute to:

  • Reducing greenhouse gas emissions: Decarbonizing the commercial transport sector will have a substantial positive impact on air quality and climate change mitigation.

  • Diversifying the energy matrix: Hydrogen offers an alternative to traditional fossil fuels, enhancing Brazil's energy independence.

  • Creating new economic opportunities: The development of a hydrogen economy, from production to distribution and vehicle maintenance, will generate jobs and stimulate innovation.

  • Positioning Brazil as a leader in sustainable mobility: Embracing hydrogen technology alongside electric vehicles can solidify Brazil's commitment to a greener future.

The partnership with USP further strengthens this potential by ensuring that local talent is at the forefront of this technological advancement. By fostering collaboration between industry and academia, GWM and USP are laying the groundwork for a sustainable and innovative transportation ecosystem in Brazil.

This is an exciting chapter for the Brazilian automotive industry and a significant step towards a cleaner, more sustainable future for São Paulo and the entire nation. The commitment of GWM, coupled with the research prowess of USP, signals a powerful drive towards a hydrogen-powered tomorrow. —iMB.Solutions

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Short Cuts from Industries

Nestlé Boosts Latin American Presence with Massive R$ 1.2 Billion Investment, Brazil to Receive Half

São Paulo, Brazil – Global food and beverage giant Nestlé has announced a significant investment of nearly R$ 1.2 billion (approximately 230millionUSD) inLatinAmerica, underscoring its commitment to the region′s growth and development. A substantial portion of this investment, roughly R$ 600 million, is earmarked specifically for Brazil, signaling the company's strong confidence in the Brazilian market.

This substantial capital injection will be strategically deployed across Nestlé's operations in Latin America, focusing on several key areas. In Brazil, the investment is expected to bolster production capacity, drive innovation in product development, and enhance sustainability initiatives. This move will likely lead to the modernization of existing facilities and the potential creation of new job opportunities across the country.

While specific details regarding the allocation of funds are yet to be fully disclosed, industry analysts anticipate that a significant portion of the Brazilian investment will be directed towards expanding Nestlé's existing product lines, particularly in high-growth categories such as dairy alternatives, plant-based foods, and ready-to-drink beverages. Furthermore, investments in research and development are expected to accelerate the introduction of new products tailored to the evolving tastes and preferences of Brazilian consumers.

Beyond production and innovation, Nestlé's commitment to sustainability is also expected to be a key focus of this investment. This could involve initiatives aimed at reducing the company's environmental footprint, promoting sustainable sourcing practices, and investing in circular economy solutions within its supply chain.

The remaining half of the R$ 1.2 billion investment will be distributed across Nestlé's other operations in Latin America, including countries like Mexico, Colombia, and Argentina. This broader investment strategy indicates Nestlé's positive long-term outlook for the entire Latin American region, recognizing its dynamic consumer base and significant growth potential.

This announcement comes at a time when the Latin American food and beverage market is experiencing considerable dynamism. Nestlé's significant investment positions the company to capitalize on these trends, strengthen its market leadership, and further integrate its operations within the local economies.

For Brazil, this investment represents a significant boost to the manufacturing sector and underscores the country's attractiveness as a key market for multinational corporations. It is anticipated that this move will have a positive ripple effect, fostering economic growth and potentially creating opportunities for local suppliers and partners.

Nestlé's long-term strategy for Latin America appears to be centered on a combination of expanding its core business, tapping into emerging consumer trends, and embedding sustainability at the heart of its operations. This latest investment announcement reaffirms the company's dedication to the region and its belief in its future growth trajectory. Consumers can likely look forward to an expanded range of innovative and sustainably produced Nestlé products in the years to come. —FG

Gulf Investment Flows into Brazil - A Budding Partnership

São Paulo, April 24, 2025 - Investment from Arabic nations in the Gulf region is rapidly expanding its footprint in Brazil, with total investments already exceeding a significant US$ 14 billion. This burgeoning financial partnership signals a deepening economic relationship between the South American giant and the wealthy Gulf states, promising substantial opportunities and transformations across various sectors of the Brazilian economy.

Over the past few years, a notable surge in capital inflow from countries like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Kuwait has been observed. These investments are not concentrated in a single area but are diversifying across key Brazilian industries. Agribusiness, a traditional strength of Brazil, is attracting considerable interest, with Gulf nations seeking to secure long-term food supplies and participate in Brazil's robust agricultural production and export capabilities.

Beyond agriculture, infrastructure projects, including ports, railways, and energy initiatives, are also receiving significant attention. These investments are crucial for Brazil's continued development and modernization, potentially alleviating bottlenecks and enhancing connectivity across the vast nation. The energy sector, particularly renewable energy projects, presents another avenue for collaboration, aligning with global sustainability trends and Brazil's potential in solar, wind, and biofuel production.

Financial markets in Brazil are also experiencing increased activity from Gulf-based sovereign wealth funds and private investors. These investments contribute to greater liquidity and can support the growth of Brazilian companies and the overall stability of the financial system.

Several factors are driving this increased investment. Brazil's large and growing economy, abundant natural resources, and stable political environment (despite recent fluctuations) make it an attractive destination for long-term investment. Furthermore, the Gulf nations are actively seeking to diversify their economies away from oil dependence and are identifying Brazil as a key strategic partner in their global investment portfolios.

This growing economic alliance holds significant potential for both sides. Brazil stands to benefit from the influx of capital, technological expertise, and access to new markets. The Gulf nations gain access to Brazil's vast resources, growing consumer market, and strategic geographic location.

While the current level of investment is substantial, the momentum suggests that this partnership is still in its early stages. Ongoing dialogues and strengthening diplomatic ties between Brazil and the Gulf nations indicate a commitment to further expanding economic cooperation in the years to come. This evolving relationship promises to bring about significant economic growth and create new opportunities for both regions.

Key Areas of Investment:

  • Agribusiness: Securing food supply chains and investing in production and processing.

  • Infrastructure: Developing ports, railways, roads, and energy infrastructure.

  • Energy: Focusing on renewable energy projects and potentially oil and gas.

  • Financial Markets: Investing in equities, bonds, and other financial instruments.

  • Mining: Exploring opportunities in Brazil's rich mineral resources.

The increasing investment from the Gulf region represents a significant development for Brazil's economic landscape, paving the way for enhanced growth, diversification, and stronger global partnerships. —Frank P. Neuhaus

Unilever Invests R$ 410 Million to Boost Operations in Brazil

Good news for the Brazilian economy! Global consumer goods giant Unilever has announced a significant investment of R$ 410 million aimed at bolstering its operations across the country. This substantial capital injection will be strategically allocated to expand the company's production capacity, as well as to establish new logistic hubs and distribution centers.

This move signals Unilever's strong commitment to the Brazilian market and its confidence in future growth. By increasing production capabilities, the company aims to meet the growing demand for its diverse range of products, which span food, home care, and personal care categories. The construction of new logistic hubs and distribution centers will further optimize Unilever's supply chain, ensuring greater efficiency in reaching consumers throughout Brazil.

While specific locations and timelines for these developments were not immediately disclosed, this investment is expected to generate economic activity and potentially create new job opportunities within the country. It also underscores the attractiveness of Brazil as a key market for multinational corporations.

This announcement comes at a time when strategic investments are crucial for driving economic recovery and strengthening local industries. Unilever's decision reflects a positive outlook on the Brazilian market's potential and reinforces its long-term presence in the region. We will continue to monitor developments and provide updates on this significant investment. —Auricio Santos

Brazilian Businesses Expand Footprint in the Arabian Gulf

São Paulo, April 24, 2025 - An increasing number of Brazilian companies are establishing and expanding their presence in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain. This movement underscores the burgeoning commercial and industrial ties between Brazil and the Gulf region, further bolstered by growing diplomatic collaboration.

For years, Brazil has been a significant exporter of agricultural commodities and raw materials to the Gulf states. However, recent trends indicate a diversification of this relationship, with Brazilian firms in sectors such as manufacturing, technology, and services actively seeking opportunities within the dynamic economies of the GCC.

Several factors are driving this expansion. The ambitious diversification plans of Gulf nations, aimed at reducing reliance on hydrocarbon revenues, are creating new avenues for international partnerships. Brazil, with its diverse industrial base and technological advancements, offers valuable expertise and solutions in areas like infrastructure development, food security, renewable energy, and advanced technology.

Furthermore, the increasing volume of trade between the two regions necessitates a stronger local presence for Brazilian companies to manage logistics, build relationships, and cater to the specific needs of the Gulf markets. This direct engagement allows for better understanding of local regulations, cultural nuances, and consumer preferences, ultimately fostering stronger and more sustainable business partnerships.

Diplomatic efforts have played a crucial role in facilitating this economic integration. High-level visits, trade missions, and the establishment of stronger institutional frameworks have paved the way for smoother business operations and increased confidence among investors. The alignment of strategic interests in areas such as food security and energy transition further strengthens this collaboration.

Examples of this growing presence can be seen across various sectors. Brazilian construction companies are participating in ambitious infrastructure projects in the Gulf. Food processing companies are establishing local facilities to cater to the growing demand for high-quality Brazilian products. Technology firms are partnering with Gulf entities to drive digital transformation initiatives.

This deepening economic relationship offers mutual benefits. For Brazil, it opens up access to significant investment capital, new markets for its products and services, and opportunities for technological exchange. For the Gulf nations, it provides access to Brazil's vast resources, industrial capabilities, and technological expertise, contributing to their diversification goals and long-term economic development.

Looking ahead, the trend of increasing Brazilian business activity in the Arabian Gulf is expected to continue. As both regions pursue their respective economic diversification and growth strategies, the complementarities between the Brazilian and Gulf economies will likely drive even greater collaboration and investment in the years to come. This growing partnership signifies a new chapter in South-South economic cooperation, with significant potential for mutual prosperity. —Frank P. Neuhaus

 

Observation: iMB.Solutions has already carried out three project missions for Brazilian and European clients in business development projects in the region, primarily in the UAE and Oman, since 2015 to date. We have a profound knowledge and a robust network in several nations of the Gulf States region. Should you have such a project in mind, we should have a non-binding exchange.

 
 
 
 

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Ups & Downs

The letting of commercial and office space recorded its second-best year ever in São Paulo in 2024. The balance between new leases and non-renewed contracts is extremely positive, with an increase of 354,000 square meters. This represents an increase of +90% compared to 2023. The main reason for this is that large companies in particular have predominantly returned to face-to-face work after the pandemic period. In addition, there is the factor of larger individual workplaces and the need to create architecturally new and innovative workspaces.

New vehicle sales in January 2025 had the best result in the last five years in Brazil. In total, more than 171,000 new vehicles were sold, an increase of 6% compared to January 2024. In 2024 as a whole, the market for new vehicles in Brazil grew by +14%. Slower growth is expected for the current year 2025. The high interest rates of currently 14.25% are cited as the main reason.

Brazil ends 2024 with almost 4,600 companies in court-ordered insolvency proceedings. This represents an increase of +13% compared to the previous year 2023, with the state of São Paulo representing around 30% of these legal proceedings. The ranking is led by real estate development companies (7%), followed by industrial holdings (6%).

The turnover of Brazilian mechanical engineering companies increased again by +11.7% in February 2025 compared to January 2025, reaching a monthly turnover of around US$ 4.2 billion. In the same period of the previous year 2024, the increase was +14.5%.

Brazilian consumers are increasingly using a combination of traditional banks and digital fintechs. In 2023, 85% of Brazilians still did so; in 2024, it was already 88%. The use of fintechs alone is declining in Brazil, falling from 12% in 2023 to 9% in 2024.

In March 2025, global investors withdrew a total of US$ 17 billion from emerging markets. This is the highest outflow since November 2024. The largest outflow was from local equity markets with a total of US$ 12.4 billion, followed by outflows from debt securities and bonds with US$ 4.8 billion.

In April 2025, the intention of Brazilian consumers to continue spending fell again. The registered decline was -0.4%, falling to 101.6 points. However, the consumer climate remains positive at over 100 points. Compared to the same period in April 2024, however, this is a decline of -1.6% and thus the seventh decline in a row.

The current climate of uncertainty is reflected in the number of industrial warehouse rentals in Brazil. The market for logistics space lost significant momentum in the first quarter of 2025 and fell to its lowest level in the last four years. The balance between new lettings and available space is currently 73% higher. The sector assumes that the trend will reverse again over the course of 2025.

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News from iMB.Solutions

 

🇦🇷 Argentina Just Secured $42 Billion in Global Aid — But at What Cost?

click on blog cover image

President Javier Milei’s radical reforms just received a huge boost from the IMF, World Bank, and IDB. With $42B in international support, Argentina is dismantling capital controls, freeing the peso, and betting big on free-market economics.

📉 Inflation is falling, but risks of a dollar run, renewed inflation, and political unrest remain real.

🔎 What’s at stake? Everything.
From financial stability to debt repayment and the survival of Milei’s presidency.

🧠 Read our latest deep dive to understand why the world is watching Argentina—and whether this gamble will pay off:

🇦🇷 Argentina Secures $42 Billion in International Aid: A Vote of Confidence in Milei's Economic Overhaul

How US Tariffs on Mexico Are Reshaping Latin America's Automotive Future

click on blog image above and read it

🚗💥 US tariffs on Mexican cars are just the beginning.

A shock to Mexico’s automotive exports is rippling across Latin America—from Brazil’s decarbonization push to Argentina’s EV incentives. What does this mean for future investments, supply chains, and competitiveness in the region?

🔎 Dive into our new analysis on how Latin America's automotive industry must adapt—or risk falling behind.

👉 Read the full story: How US Tariffs on Mexico Are Reshaping Latin America's Automotive Future

SXSW 2025: A Celebration of Innovation, Culture, and Global Collaboration

We were also present again in Austin, Texas, U.S.A., in 2025. Discover why SXSW 2025 is the must-read blog for anyone passionate about technology and culture! Dive into the detailed analysis of cutting-edge AI developments, sustainability breakthroughs, and global innovation trends published by iMBdigital.Gallery_ after the participation at SXSW 2025. From eye-opening panels and world-class speakers to the remarkable influence of Brazil on the event, the blog offers insights that inspire and inform. Stay ahead of the curve—read now and join the conversation on the future of innovation! —iMBdigital.Gallery

Social Media Controlling iMB.Solutions

With iMB.Solutions, we have been active on various social media platforms since day 1 - in other words, for more than two decades. In the beginning, it was exclusively the Xing platform, especially for the German-speaking market, and LinkedIn. Over the years, our presence on these platforms has become increasingly diversified. We are also active in some geographical markets on the relevant open and sometimes closed platforms of management on demand, interim management providers, consulting companies or auditors with publications. One thing has to be said in advance: these platforms, whether open or closed, are not particularly efficient when it comes to generating new contacts, leads and follow-up activities.

We have been running our GreyRhino newsletter for several years now. However, it was only two years ago that we decided to actively use this digital channel on a regular basis and several times a month to establish it as a vehicle for direct customer contact. In the following, we would like to show you how this activity has developed rapidly - much to our amazement.

Subscriber portfolio

As of April 25, 2025, we had a total of 17,529 subscribers who subscribe to our newsletter via the following social media channels

  1. via webpage iMB.Solutions 75%

  2. via LinkedIn 7%

  3. via X, formally Twitter 7%

  4. via Bluesky (only for about 5 months now) 3%

  5. via Substack (only for 2 months now) 8%

In total, our posts on all these platforms had 204,533 visualizations in the period April 24, 2024 to April 25, 2025.

It is striking that our GreyRhino newsletter publications represent about 68% of all visualizations; the remaining 32% are distributed among the normal posts and notes on the various platforms.

The average read rate of our GreyRhino Newsletter is 48%. This means that the subscriber opened the link to the newsletter and also opened at least 50% of all links within the newsletter,

The traffic on our website has increased by +238% over the past 12 months (y-o-y). New visitors with subsequent registration as subscribers have increased by +349% in the same period. Visitors who visit all sections of our website have grown by +47% in the 12-month period.

We are currently seeing the strongest growth via the Substack channel, which is also being consistently expanded to become our preferred social media vehicle, together with our own website. However, the mere increase in new subscribers is not necessarily a quality criterion. Particularly in the case of the Substack platform, it is noticeable that the quality of the information exchanges with our subscribers is significantly higher here. This is particularly true in comparison with the LinkedIn platform. LinkedIn seems to have been losing relevance for strong content exchanges with our subscribers and followers for some years now - we have been observing this for a good 1.5 to 2 years.

We can see that the platform is becoming a kind of hybrid version between TikTok and Instagram. Users only scroll through very quickly, stopping here and there at a visual image without visiting the author of the post or even the website.

Geographical portfolio of subscribers

  1. South America, including Brazil 53%

  2. North America (USMCA economic area) 22%

  3. Europe 18%

  4. Arabian Peninsula, Gulf Region (UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar) 5%

  5. Rest 2%

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Get Out

The Plot Against the President

In 2018, I worked on a project mission for a Canadian mining company in Brazil. I was also active in the Canadian HQ for longer periods of time. In July 2028, I discovered this thriller - it was in Vancouver or Toronto. With all that traveling, I always needed something really challenging and explosive to read. Now, in 2025, the thriller fell into my hands again when I was cleaning out my cupboard in the Sao Paulo office. And I immediately started reading it again. Without spoilers: the story seems even more realistic in 2025 than one could have dreamed of in 2018.

Just finished The Plot Against the President by Sam Bourne once again — a razor-sharp political thriller that feels eerily close to reality. Power, conspiracy, and a chilling race against time to stop a democracy from being dismantled from within. If you’re into high-stakes drama and can’t resist a “what if it’s true?” kind of story, this one’s a must-read. —Frank P. Neuhaus

click on image above and access HarperCollins Canada Publishing

Carnival 2025 in São Paulo: A Dazzling Fusion of Culture, Creativity, and Social Commentary

Carnival 2025 in São Paulo lit up Brazil’s largest city with vibrant parades, creative costumes, and powerful cultural messages. Unlike any other carnival, São Paulo’s edition combined traditional samba school performances, inclusive street parties (blocos), and socially charged themes ranging from Afro-Brazilian heritage to feminist and LGBTQIA+ rights. From Sociedade Rosas de Ouro's championship parade to the controversial imagery of Acadêmicos do Tatuapé, this year’s carnival became a dynamic canvas of art, activism, and celebration. Explore the standout moments, cultural depth, and lasting impact of São Paulo's Carnival 2025 in our full recap. —iMBdigital.Gallery curator team

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reflection sunset at Juquehy Beach, north shore, São Paulo, Brazil (April 2025) —iMBdigital.Gallery®

 

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We are iMB. Here writes the iMB.Solutions team. The blog post reflects the experiences and opinions of the publishers at the time of publication. This is modern interim management - it's all about people. Interim management and implementation-oriented consulting are in the post-modern business world one of the tactical and strategic most important factor for business success.

We are Business Development, reorganization and transformation experts in the way we think, the way we do the projects and the way we communicate internally and externally. 

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GreyRhino newsletter Edition April 2025