Batista hints at trouble for Brazil
The legal headache facing Brazil's former richest man is a sign of the times for the slowing emerging-market economy.
A threatened $31m lawsuit may be just a fleabite for a man once valued at $30bn but it's undoubtedly another problem that Eike Batista doesn't need. Formerly Brazil's richest man, Batista's net worth has dwindled to around $200m, reports Bloomberg, as his oil-to-entertainment empire teeters on the edge of collapse, owing billions to Brazil's banks.
Much-hyped oil and gas discoveries by OGX, his flagship company, have proved to be flops and the many retail investors who helped finance his ventures are furious. Hence the pending lawsuit that accuses him and other directors of insider trading and releasing misleading information about the firm's prospects.
What the commentators said
Consequently, "his demise is also a broader sign of the tougher times ahead for Brazilian businesses now that the excitement over commodities is waning", said Joe Leahy and Samantha Pearson in the FT. In a less optimistic era, capital for much-needed private investment Brazil's greatest weakness may be scarce.
Subscribe to MoneyWeek
Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE

Sign up to Money Morning
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Get the latest financial news, insights and expert analysis from our award-winning MoneyWeek team, to help you understand what really matters when it comes to your finances.
MoneyWeek is written by a team of experienced and award-winning journalists, plus expert columnists. As well as daily digital news and features, MoneyWeek also publishes a weekly magazine, covering investing and personal finance. From share tips, pensions, gold to practical investment tips - we provide a round-up to help you make money and keep it.
-
Will “Liberation Day” strike again?
Donald Trump’s 90-day tariff pause comes to an end on 9 July. Can we expect further market turmoil?
-
Israel claims victory in the '12-day war' with Iran
Donald Trump may have announced a ceasefire in the 12-day war between Israel and Iran, but what comes next depends on what happens internally in Iran