Brazil Should Be a Superpower, but It Isn’t...

Economics Explained

2016 was supposed to mark Brazil's rise as an economic superpower. The country saw rapid growth in industries, surpassing India and Italy, and nearing France and the UK in economic output. Improvements in healthcare, education, and political stability painted a promising picture.

But by 2016, the dream was shattered. The Rio Olympics, intended to showcase Brazil's success, became a global embarrassment. Delayed construction, waste-filled arenas, and the event's high costs bankrupted the city, leading to strikes by unpaid public servants. Instead of highlighting achievements, the Olympics exposed Brazil's challenges.

Since its peak, Brazil's GDP has nearly halved, erasing progress made in the 2000s. Corruption scandals and political instability further hinder its recovery.

This video explores how Brazil became a fast-growing economy, why it collapsed, and if it can reclaim its former success. Could Brazil rise again?

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