US-Brazil Trade War: Brazil condemned the US move to impose 25% tariffs on many Brazilian imports from July 22, calling it a “lamentable” breach of trade rules and vowing to fight at the WTO and via its new Reciprocity Law; officials also pushed back on US claims of unfair practices, citing duty-free access and low average tariffs on US goods. Digital Payments Under Fire: A separate analysis warns the tariff probe is really about US pressure on Brazil’s domestic policies, including Pix and other digital and environmental rules—an early signal for how Washington may treat similar issues in future deals. Agribusiness Impact: The US tariff plan exempts beef, but cattle groups are still angry, while ethanol and sugar producers brace for fallout as Washington targets parts of Brazil’s biofuel supply chain. Mining & Critical Minerals: Solis Minerals has started 10-hole lithium drilling at its Mandacaru project in Minas Gerais, while vanadium and rare-earth supply-chain coverage highlights how Brazil’s resource base fits into the global scramble. Rio Housing Crackdown: Rio de Janeiro reported “lightning evictions” in multiple favelas, raising fresh concerns about due process and social stability. World Cup Economy: US beer sales surged during the tournament, but broader alcohol demand trends remain weak—raising questions about whether sports can reverse the long-term slowdown.