Nu Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:NU) shares are trading higher Monday after Flávio Bolsonaro, a right-wing Brazilian senator, beat expectations in the first round of Brazil’s presidential election.
- Nu stock is showing exceptional strength. Why are NU shares rallying?
Bolsonaro Heads to a Runoff Against Lula
According to Reuters, Bolsonaro won about 47% of the vote in Sunday’s first round and will face leftist incumbent Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in a runoff on October 25. His campaign has said its proposals will strengthen fiscal discipline, improve public-sector efficiency and create conditions for stronger economic growth.
Why a Brazil Election Matters for Nu
Nu has built its position as the world’s largest neobank largely on its dominant share of the Brazilian market, so shifts in the country’s economic outlook tend to flow directly through to the stock. Bolsonaro’s policies focus on tighter fiscal policy, lower taxes, and potentially lower long-term interest rates, which are seen as improving Brazil’s business environment, stock market and currency, the Brazilian real.
Marco Saravalle, chief investment officer at MSX Invest/Krivo Capital, told Reuters that if Bolsonaro is elected, it could help pass major economic reforms, institute a “more well-behaved fiscal policy,” and boost growth in Brazil.
Monzo Denial Also in the Background
Nu’s shares also got a lift last week after the company said in a filing that it “is not pursuing a transaction with Monzo,” adding that it remains focused on strengthening its position in Brazil, growing its businesses in Mexico and Colombia, and building its presence in the United States and globally. Sky News had reported earlier in the week that Nu and Monzo were in early talks over a deal that could be worth £8 billion to £10 billion, and Nu’s shares declined after that report.
Nu Shares Rush Higher
NU Price Action: At the time of publication, Nu shares are trading 13.10% higher at $15.19, according to data from Benzinga Pro.
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