In 2015, the global economic scene was marked by the divergence between the growth trend in the developed countries, in particular the United States, and the sluggishness in emerging economies, most notably China. This behavior may be repeated in 2016, with ongoing volatility in the international markets. On the one hand, the resumption in GDP growth in the US has been strengthening the dollar against other currencies. On the other, the Chinese economy should continue to slow down, sustaining pressure on commodity prices.

In this context, Brazil has achieved some success in key dimensions of the macroeconomic adjustment underway. The devaluation of the currency favored a reduction in the deficit in current account transactions, whilst the realignment of managed prices and tightened monetary conditions should permit the convergence of inflation to the center of the target in the coming years. However, while there have been signs of progress in fiscal policy, economy activity remains weak, making it difficult to achieve the targets necessary to stabilize public debt as a proportion of GDP.

This phase of restoring balance is important to establish the bases for more sustained economic growth in the future. Moreover, short-term challenges should also provide the conditions necessary for the proposal of a reform agenda that will boost the dynamism of the Brazilian economy. As such, Bradesco remains optimistic in its expectations for the country, in particular in the segments in which it operates.

Megatrends

In a conjuncture characterized by new demographic patterns, climate change, the ascension of emerging economies, population growth and ever faster technological innovation, Bradesco strives to adapt to the megatrends influencing commercial relations, the behavior of people and companies and decisions at all levels of government.

Innovation and technology initiatives are part of this adaptation to the effects of megatrends, with the stimulus of innovations in products, systems and mechanisms that enable improvements in accessibility, inclusion and citizenship. Gains obtained through savings in items such as paper and fuel and reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reinforce the company’s eco-efficiency initiatives and are reflected in the generation of value for shareholders.

In its innovation initiatives aimed at the most diverse client groups, Bradesco has increasingly sought to offer solutions, as well as greater access to information and to banking and insurance operations.

By means of its insurance arm, Bradesco Seguros, Bradesco develops products, initiatives and measures that drive improved quality of life, health and well being. Since 2006, longevity has been the main focus of the Bradesco Longevity Forum, the tenth edition of which was held in 2015. The emphasis is on discussions of studies by scientists, analysts and actuaries. Other related measures are the Longevity Circuit, the Conviva Movement, the Doormen Friends of the Elderly Program and the Viva Mais Space, a portal providing content on health, well-being, eating habits, travel, personal finance and musical attractions.

This new environment represents a great challenge for the Organization’s employees. UniBrad, the Bradesco Corporate University, offers a corporate education system based on competencies, providing a series of learning processes linked with the Organization’s values, goals and targets. With a similar purpose, Bradesco Seguros’ UniverSeg (Universidade do Conhecimento do Seguro) offers brokers and employees the knowledge they require to ensure service excellence for the public, reinforcing an insurance culture in society.