1252 ET - Brazil's labor market will likely drive the central bank to keep interest rates among the highest in the world later today. The country's 5.6% unemployment rate may seem elevated compared to the U.S.'s 4.3%, but it is actually one of the lowest on record in Brazil. "This keeps labor-sensitive prices from falling faster," says economist Maykon Douglas. A strengthening currency makes imports cheaper, but that is offset by low unemployment, Douglas says. The central bank's Selic rate is at 15% since June, following a hiking cycle. The Brazilian real is up 15.5% against the dollar this year. (paulo.trevisani@wsj.com; @ptrevisani)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

November 05, 2025 12:53 ET (17:53 GMT)

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