Brazil Central Bank’s Payment App Dragged Into Election Campaign
- Bolsonaro touts Pix instant payment system in campaign ads
- Popular system was launched in 2020 after years in the making
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A successful instant payment system launched by Brazil’s central bank two years ago suddenly became a major talking point in this year’s election as President Jair Bolsonaro tries to present a positive agenda a month ahead of the vote.
“Let’s talk about Pix,” the incumbent says in a campaign ad now running on social media, referring to the system currently used by more than half of Brazilians. He smiles amid images of people making payments through the mobile app at markets and street stalls. The camera then cuts to a woman who says the platform is the “best thing” Bolsonaro did for the country.