PBR and RIO have been Brazil’s stars in this latest Brazil run, dominating positions in the iShares Brazil ETF ticker EWZ. PBR and RIO’s stories are well known, and I actually think RIO looks done for now given the continual weakness in nickel prices. Could financials be the next leg up for Brazil’s markets?

BLOOMBERG: REINSURERS RUSH TO BRAZIL AS PREMIUMS CLIMB 40%

“By Telma Marotto

July 11 (Bloomberg) — Swiss Reinsurance Co. and Munich Re, the world’s two largest reinsurance companies, are leading a rush to Brazil to capitalize on the biggest deregulation of a market since China opened up more than six years ago.

At least 13 companies have been authorized to operate since the government ended its 69-year monopoly in April, said Armando Vergilio dos Santos Junior, head of Brazil’s insurance regulator, who estimates the number will reach 40 by December. He expects reinsurance premiums to rise 40 percent to $3.5 billion this year and then double to $7 billion by 2011.”

Full Article: http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601109&sid=aGQItoNVF_As&refer=home

Purchasing.com: Potash Supply at risk, more price hikes-

“New concerns at major producer in Russia could push fertilizer prices up again
By Dave Hannon — Purchasing, 7/14/2008 9:33:00 AM

With demand booming and more supply expected to become restricted, potash prices are rising yet again.

In Russia, a vital rail line at one of the world’s largest potash mines could be closed soon, due to a rapidly expanding sinkhole, and put the mine down for at least several weeks until a new rail line is completed.”

full article:

http://www.purchasing.com/index.asp?layout=article&articleid=CA6578219&article_prefix=CA&article_id=6578219&rssid=268