Governo avança em programa para renegociação de dívidas e avalia uso do FGTS
·4 min
The episode reports on a high-level government meeting in Brasília regarding a new debt relief program for Brazilian citizens. Journalist Rani Veloso provides details from the Palácio do Planalto, where President Lula and the Minister of Economic Affairs met for almost three hours. The proposed program aims to help Brazilians renegotiate debts that are delayed from two months to one year. A key proposal being evaluated is the potential release of FGTS (Fundo de Garantia do Tempo de Serviço) resources for debt payment, though this is approached with caution due to concerns about depleting workers' financial reserves. The government's primary concern is the high number of indebted families, particularly in an election year. Minister Dario Durigã has discussed the possibility of debt discounts reaching 80%, with the remaining 20% negotiated at lower interest rates backed by a government guarantor fund. Eligible debts include credit card (especially revolving credit), special checks, and personal loans. The program focuses on Brazilians earning up to three minimum salaries, though others with high debt burdens may also qualify by converting debt into lower-interest credit lines. Banks, fintechs, and credit operators are being consulted, with Minister Durigã having spoken to FEBRABAN. The program aims to be simpler than the previous "Desenrola" initiative, and its final format awaits President Lula's endorsement, with a potential release in the coming days. The report notes this is a critical moment, citing National Trade Confederation data showing 80.2% of Brazilian families are indebted—a historical record—with 29.6% of those debts in default. The meeting also included discussions on fuel, though no announcement timeline was set. Other participants included Vice-President Geraldo Alckmin and ministers from the Civil House, Labor, Management and Innovation, Planning, and the Secretary of Economic Policy.
