EIN Presswire: Brazil Business Press Releases

Rio Court Confirms Validity of BHG's Acquisition of Hotel Rio Palace

Thu, 24 May 2012 21:03:30 +0000

Rio Court Confirms Validity of BHG's Acquisition of Hotel Rio Palace

PR Newswire

SAO PAULO, May 24, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- BHG S.A. (BM&FBovespa: BHGR3; OTC: BZHGY ) - Brazil Hospitality Group hereby announces that on May 23, 2012, the 4th Civil Chamber of the State Appellate Court of Rio de Janeiro confirmed the validity and effectiveness of the acquisition of Hotel Rio Palace, in Rio de Janeiro, by the BHG Group, overturning the first-instance ruling by the 6th Corporate Court of Rio de Janeiro, thereby rejecting the supposed preference rights of Nova Riotel and confirming BHG's acquisition.

Negotiations to acquire the hotel began on August 26, 2010, with the signing of the deed of purchase and sale with Veplan Hoteis e Turismo S.A. ("Veplan"), amended on September 2, 2010 and confirmed on July 6, 2011 by a unanimous decision by the 4th Civil Chamber of the State Appellate Court. The BHG Group then drew up the final deed of purchase and sale on August 17, 2011 via Melongena Empreendimentos 1 Ltda.

Following the decision of the 6th Corporate Court recognizing the preference rights of Nova Riotel Empreendimentos Hoteleiros Ltda, BHG filed an interlocutory appeal with the 4th Civil Chamber of the State Appellate Court, which resolved to reverse the first-instance ruling and confirm the validity and effectiveness of the acquisition of the Hotel by the BHG Group.

The Rio Palace is one of Rio de Janeiro's leading hotels, with a total built area of 57,811 sq.m., 388 rooms, ten conference rooms with a capacity for up to 2,000 people and 13 meeting rooms in its business center, two restaurants, a bar, a gym and an underground parking lot. It occupies a highly privileged location on one of Rio's main thoroughfares, with easy access to Santos Dumont airport and the downtown area, as well as the city's most beautiful beaches.

"The acquisition of the Hotel Rio Palace was in strict accordance with all the established legal procedures for this type of transaction and will generate excellent returns for our Company, creating new opportunities for business and leisure tourism. The Rio Palace has one of the most privileged locations on the entire Rio sea-front, being situated between the city's two most famous beaches – Copacabana and Ipanema," declared Pieter Jacobus F. van Voorst Vader, CEO of BHG S.A. – Brazil Hospitality Group.

About BHG:

Brazil Hospitality Group is one of the leading hotel companies in Brazil, with its own and administered hotels in the 3, 4 and 5 star categories. The Company is responsible for the Golden Tulip brand in South America.

BHG is a publicly held company, with shares listed on the BM&FBovespa's Novo Mercado segment, under the ticker BHGR3, and with an ADR Level I Program for trading shares on the OTC market in New York, under the ticker BZHGY.

Media Relations
BHG S.A. – Brazil Hospitality Group
Fernanda Pannunzio
fpannunzio@bhg.net
11.3577.2302 / 11.9668.7249

SOURCE BHG S.A. - Brazil Hospitality Group

CHS expands Brazilian investment to include grain export terminal

Thu, 24 May 2012 14:23:18 +0000

CHS expands Brazilian investment to include grain export terminal

PR Newswire

ST. PAUL, Minn., May 24, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- CHS Inc. (Nasdaq: CHSCP), the nation's leading farmer-owned cooperative, announced today it has purchased 25 percent ownership of TCN, a recently-formed Brazilian logistics company founded by NovaAgri, Sao Paulo, Brazil. NovaAgri will own 75 percent of TCN shares. In addition to the ownership investment, CHS also signed a long-term agreement with TCN, securing export terminal access at the Port of Itaqui, Sao Luis, Brazil.

"This major and strategic investment gives CHS competitive access to the fastest growing region of Brazil and further strengthens our ability to supply soybeans and corn to global customers," says Stefano Rettore, senior vice president, CHS South America, Sao Paulo, Brazil. "We believe demographics and income growth, especially in developing economies, means the world demand for soybeans and corn will increase. This partnership fits into CHS aspirations to expand our global commodities footprint to meet growing demand, and to continue to add value to our member-owners' investment."

Infrastructure development at the Port of Itaqui is expected to greatly improve market access for Brazilian growers by reducing significant logistical bottlenecks and, Rettore says, increased exports will also improve Brazil's trade balance.

In October 2011, TCN was awarded the right to construct one of four export terminals in the Port of Itaqui, in the northeastern Brazilian state of Maranhao on the Atlantic Ocean. Construction will begin in August 2012, with completion expected during the second half of 2013.

About NovaAgri

Founded in 2008, NovaAgri is a national provider of integrated logistics, serving the Brazilian soft commodities sector. Through the ownership and operation of integrated infrastructure facilities including ports, grain elevators and silos, NovaAgri provides logistical solutions and services to a wide array of clients.

About CHS

CHS Inc. is the nation's leading cooperative, owned by farmers, ranchers and co-ops across the United States. A diversified global energy, grains and foods business and a Fortune 100 company, CHS is committed to helping producers and member cooperatives grow their businesses through its domestic and global operations. CHS supplies energy, crop nutrients, grain marketing services, livestock feed, food and food ingredients, along with business solutions including insurance, financial and risk management services. The company operates petroleum refineries/pipelines and manufactures, markets and distributes Cenex® brand refined fuels, lubricants, propane and renewable energy products.

SOURCE CHS Inc.

Strategic Investment in North-East Brazilian Exploration and Mining Company

Wed, 23 May 2012 23:20:49 +0000

Strategic Investment in North-East Brazilian Exploration and Mining Company

PR Newswire

NEW YORK, May 23, 2012 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- China Digital Venture Corporation (OTCBB: CDVV; "China Digital" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has signed a memorandum of understanding between the shareholder group of Sao Camilo Mineradora Ltda. Group ("Sao Camilo") to acquire a strategic equity interest in Sao Camilo.

Sao Camilo was founded in 2006 with the objective of developing an iron ore processing project -- The Sao Camilo Project -- to produce and export pellet feeds from its mining resources located nearby the city of Sao Raimundo Nonato, south of Piaui State, in the northeast region of Brazil.

"Following our recent investment in Arnevut Resources (U.S. gold exploration and mining company), our interests in the Sao Camilo Project will definitely be an important step to position ourselves as a unique investment platform into attractive resource projects worldwide," stated Robert Price, China Digital's Director & CEO. "We are already in discussion with strategic companies that can help us substantiate the value of this property and bring the project to the next level."

The Sao Camilo Project

Greenfield open pit mining project in the northeast of Brazil, focused on iron ore and manganese
412 mm m3 of iron ore reserves with a 30% Fe content and 50 k tons of manganese
Iron ore with very low impurities that can be easily concentrated to over 62% iron grade of sinter feed
Manganese associated with the ore, increase value of the iron ore as it will require less manganese to produce steel
Infrastructure availability - water, electricity, new railroad (construction in progress), labor, ports
Incentives by both federal and local government and low cost financing available by the Brazilian Development Bank for the projects in the region.

Iron Ore: The iron ore is represented by banded iron formations interspersed with small bands of ferruginous quartzite. The ore body is a continuous, well defined, with length of nearly five kilometers, and layers with thickness ranging from 50m to 120m. The characteristics of the iron ore deposits, with medial magnetism and with a typical Itabirite banding, are comparable to major deposits of iron ore in Brazil, especially the ones found in the central-south areas of Bahia and in the areas in north of Minas Gerais. In such regions, similar deposits are in advanced phases to start mining. The iron ore consists mainly of minerals such as martite, magnetite, ghoetite, quartz, and with Fe content ranging from 21% to 35%, with an aggregate blend resulting on an average content of 30% for the total deposit. Technical analysis presented highly satisfactory results, indicating that the ore is consisted of released silica. In addition, the iron ore presented extremely low levels of impurities such as alumina and phosphorous.

Manganese Ore: The manganese ore occurs within the iron ore body in form of surface concentrations, which has its origin connected to the action of supergene weathering agents, alongside the influence of topography. Mineralogical analysis shows that the ore consists essentially of criptomelano and pyrolusite and its manganese content ranges from 30 ~ 57%, and an average density of 3.9 t/cubic meter. The manganese ores are represented by tabular bodies of proto ore silicate, the primary ore, covered by colluvial deposits of high grade supergene ore.

To date, Sao Camilo has acquired two farms totaling 690 hectares, which cover most of the mining rights, including the ideal location for the construction of plant facilities, piling stocks and tailings dam. In addition to the acquired properties, Sao Camilo has filed a requirement for servitude areas in order to fulfill the applicable legislation, which determines that industrial works and the plant facilities are to be comprised within the servitude areas allowed for the project. These areas will be used for the implementation of the final pit, processing plant, roads, accesses, offices, workshops, health and other support facilities, waste disposal, barren, and structures for environment protection, among other uses.

Since it started its exploratory activities in mid-2005, Sao Camilo has developed several research activities aimed at investigating the quality and the volume of the iron and manganese ores. Over the next 12 ~ 18 month period, the project will commence in-depth research conducted as per NI 43-101 or JORC standards to obtain an internationally certified reserve.

About China Digital Venture Corporation

China Digital Venture Corporation (OTCBB: CDVV), is a publicly traded U.S. based junior exploration and mining company headquartered in Rockille, Maryland. The Company is currently pursuing opportunities for several acquisition targets focusing on operational plans for current projects across the trans-pacific regions. China Digital's commitment to asset growth and increased shareholder value will be sustained by the development of highly prospective projects, accelerated exploration activities and the acquisition of viable resources.

Contact:
Robert M. Price, Director
+1-202-536-5191

SOURCE China Digital Venture Corporation

WDM Group San Diego Welcomes New Senior Sales Director for Latin America, Adrian Morel, to its International Sales Team

Wed, 23 May 2012 20:12:00 +0000

WDM Group San Diego Welcomes New Senior Sales Director for Latin America, Adrian Morel, to its International Sales Team

PR Newswire

SAN DIEGO, May 23, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

WDM Group, the leading business news source for C-level executives worldwide, recently welcomed another member to their ever-growing international sales team: Senior Sales Director for Latin America, Adrian Morel. Morel will bring a plethora of well-rounded, international business experience to the Latin America Sales Department here at the San Diego headquarters.

Morel grew up in Argentina, and attended college at the Universidad de Buenos Aires. From there, he moved to Brazil where he worked for Shell Global, ultimately leading him to the United States. In 1996 Morel received an MBA from two different universities: one from L'Ecoles Nationales des Ponts et Chaussées de Paris and the other from the Universidad de Belgrano. Alongside these accomplishments, he also studied German, Italian, Russian, Japanese, and Madarin.

"This is one of the most professional companies I have worked for," Morel explained. "I believe my international experience will help the company reach new horizons and develop an effective global expansion plan." He looks forward to working with the Sales Department to bring a strong company presence to Latin America.

Morel's industry experience includes everything from consulting, lighting and LED technologies, to retail, oil, and finance. His professional career also includes publishing over 200 articles focused on business and technology, winning the ToastMaster International "Humorours Speech Contest", on top of giving speeches to audiences at over 15 different univeristies (including Stanford).

WDM Group looks forward to what Morel's worldly experience will bring to the company.

About WDM Group

WDM Group is a digital publishing company that oversees the production and development of twenty three independent brands. Founded in 2007 by entrepreneur Glen White, WDM Group retains a diverse portfolio of digital magazines and websites targeting C-level executives working in specific industries and territories across the world. As innovators in digital communications, each of WDM Group's brands is leveraged across a variety of digital channels, including iPad applications, custom e-newsletters, and social networking sites.

WDM Group is headquartered in Carlsbad, California. Additional offices are located in Boston, Toronto, Mumbai, Norwich, Sydney and Cape Town. For more information, please visit http://www.wdmgroup.com

Media Contact
Sam Soares
Public Relations Coordinator
5901 Priestly Drive # 300
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Phone: +1-760-607-5532

WDM Group San Diego Welcomes New Senior Sales Director for Latin America, Adrian Morel, to its International Sales Team

Wed, 23 May 2012 20:12:00 +0000

WDM Group San Diego Welcomes New Senior Sales Director for Latin America, Adrian Morel, to its International Sales Team

PR Newswire

SAN DIEGO, May 23, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

WDM Group looks forward to what Morel's worldly experience will bring to the company.

About WDM Group

Media Contact
Sam Soares
Public Relations Coordinator
5901 Priestly Drive # 300
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Phone: +1-760-607-5532

SOURCE WDM Group

American Airlines Announces Initial Boeing 777-300ER Schedule

Wed, 23 May 2012 16:00:00 +0000

American Airlines Announces Initial Boeing 777-300ER Schedule

Dallas/Fort Worth, London Heathrow, New York JFK and Sao Paulo Will Be First Airports to See New Aircraft

PR Newswire

FORT WORTH, Texas, May 23, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- American Airlines today announced the flight numbers and markets for its first group of Boeing 777-300ERs that will enter the airline's fleet starting this December. On Dec. 13, the Dallas/Fort Worth – Sao Paulo route will be the first to feature the newest addition to American's fleet. In February, the aircraft will fly to London Heathrow from both Dallas/Fort Worth and New York JFK.

American is the first U.S. airline to order and take delivery of the Boeing 777-300ER. The 777-300ERs will complement American's fleet by offering additional network flexibility in the future, as well as providing increased efficiency due to better seat mile economics and performance characteristics.

Below is a schedule for initial routes that will feature the 777-300ER. These schedules will appear in global distribution systems this week.

Market	Flight	Frequency	Date
Dallas/Fort Worth – Sao Paulo	AA963/AA962	Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday – southbound; Wednesday, Friday, Sunday – northbound	Dec. 13 through Dec. 31
Dallas/Fort Worth – Sao Paulo	AA963/AA962	Daily except Monday – southbound; Daily except Tuesday – northbound	Jan. 1 through Jan. 30
Dallas/Fort Worth- Sao Paulo	AA963/AA962	Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday – southbound; Wednesday, Friday, Sunday – northbound	Jan. 31 through Feb. 13
Dallas/Fort Worth – London Heathrow	AA50/AA79	Daily	Jan. 31 through Feb. 13
Dallas/Fort Worth – London Heathrow	AA50/AA51	Daily	Feb. 14 on
New York JFK – London Heathrow	AA100/AA101	Daily	Feb. 14 on
Dallas/Fort Worth – London Heathrow	AA78/AA79	Daily	March 2 through March 31
New York – JFK – Sao Paulo	AA951/AA950	Daily	April 2 on

"American is proud to be among the first in the industry to offer a combination of fully lie-flat seats with all-aisle access, international Wi-Fi, and top-of-the-line in-seat entertainment," said Virasb Vahidi, American's Chief Commercial Officer. "On Dec. 13, our customers can experience these firsts on flights between Dallas/Fort Worth and Sao Paulo."

As part of its international widebody strategy, American anticipates taking delivery of 10 Boeing 777-300ERs beginning in December 2012. The 777-300ERs will be configured as three-class aircraft and will include fully lie-flat First and Business Class seats, Main Cabin Extra, and Wi-Fi capability to keep customers connected while traveling internationally.

The three-class cabin configuration in the new 777-300ER will provide American with more customers and cargo capacity than any other aircraft in its fleet today. Customers will be welcomed into the aircraft by unique mood lighting. American will be the first airline to use a dramatic archway and ceiling treatment on the 777-300 to create a feeling of spaciousness. A walk-up bar in the premium cabin stocked with snacks and refreshments will be a first for any U.S. airline and adds another unique element of luxury to the 777-300. Entertainment options include up to 120 movies, more than 150 TV programs and more than 350 audio selections that will be offered throughout the aircraft. Also, every seat will feature individual 110-volt AC power outlets and USB jacks for charging personal electronic devices. For more information, visit www.AA.com/Fly777.

About American Airlines
American Airlines, American Eagle and the AmericanConnection® carrier serve 260 airports in more than 50 countries and territories with, on average, more than 3,500 daily flights. The combined network fleet numbers more than 900 aircraft. American's award-winning website, AA.com®, provides users with easy access to check and book fares, plus personalized news, information and travel offers. American Airlines is a founding member of the oneworld® alliance, which brings together some of the best and biggest names in the airline business, enabling them to offer their customers more services and benefits than any airline can provide on its own. Together, its members and members-elect serve more than 900 destinations with more than 9,000 daily flights to 150 countries and territories. American Airlines, Inc. and American Eagle Airlines, Inc. are subsidiaries of AMR Corporation. AmericanAirlines, American Eagle, AmericanConnection, AA.com, and AAdvantage are trademarks of American Airlines, Inc. AMR Corporation common stock trades under the symbol "AAMRQ" on the OTCQB marketplace, operated by OTC Markets Group.

Current AMR Corp. news releases can be accessed at http://www.aa.com

SOURCE American Airlines

Spotlight on Brazil: Navigating the Barriers

Wed, 23 May 2012 15:59:40 +0000

Spotlight on Brazil: Navigating the Barriers

International SOS webinar investigates traveler and expatriate health risks and security challenges in Brazil

PR Newswire

TREVOSE, Pa., May 23, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

WHAT:	Brazil has taken the world stage as a top location for organizations seeking to expand their operations. With fast-growing mining and energy industries, Brazil presents attractive opportunities for multi-national companies. And upcoming soccer and other sporting events position this South American nation squarely in the global spotlight.

	But what are the health and security concerns when it comes to doing business in Brazil? What are the challenges organizations face in sending travelers and expatriates to work and live in the country? What are best practices to ensure the employer's Duty of Care is met?

	This webinar — the third in a four-part series addressing the BRIC countries — will answer these questions and more. On-the-ground experts will give the basics of protecting the health, safety and well-being of your employees when it comes to doing business in Brazil.

WHO:	International SOS, the world's leading provider of integrated medical, international healthcare and security assistance services.

	Expert Speakers:

	Myles Druckman, M.D., Vice President, Medical Services, Americas, International SOS

	Nicolau Chamma, M.D., Occupational Health Medical Director, Americas, International SOS

	Carola Mittrany, Regional Information Analyst, International SOS and Control Risks

	Moderator:

	Alex Puig, Regional Security Director, International SOS and Control Risks

WHEN:	When: Thursday, May 31, 2012
	Time: 1 - 2 p.m. Eastern

HOW:	Register here

	If you are unable to attend, use the link below to request a recording, to be emailed no later than three business days after the webinar:

	Request recording

About International SOS

International SOS (www.internationalsos.com) is the world's leading medical & security services company operating from over 700 sites in 76 countries with 10,000 employees, led by 1,100 physicians and 200 security specialists. Our global services include medical and risk planning, preventative programs, in-country expertise and emergency response for travelers, expatriates and their dependents of over 70 percent of the Fortune 500 companies.

SOURCE International SOS

Cimatron Partners with Mitsubishi Machine Tools in Brazil

Wed, 23 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

Cimatron Partners with Mitsubishi Machine Tools in Brazil

CimatronE NC capabilities to be demonstrated at Feira da Mecânica, May 22-26, 2012

PR Newswire

GIVAT SHMUEL, Israel, May 23, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

Cimatron Limited (NASDAQ and TASE: CIMT) today announced that its acclaimed CimatronE software will be powering the Mitsubishi Machine Tools' demonstration at the Feira da Mecânica trade show.

"Cimatron values this opportunity to demonstrate how our software is highly effective in milling parts, both simple and complex," said Alexandre Censi, Cimatron's country manager for Brazil.

"Aside from CimatronE's large variety of CAD and NC programming functionalities for molds, dies and discrete production, the software also has some of the most robust post-processors on the market.

"The software offers a rich library of post-processors that can quickly and accurately power practically all 3-, 4- and 5-axis machines, both positioning and continuous, as well as all leading controllers.

"CimatronE also maximizes the power of machines through its range of functionalities and milling strategies, including high speed machining and high volume material removal."

The Mitsubishi Machine Tools booth at Feira de Mecânica (booth G05) will feature several machines that will be using CimatronE for live demonstrations, showing the milling of actual parts.

For more information on Cimatron's activities in Brazil, contact:
Alexandre Censi
Email: AlexC@Cimatron.com
Phone: +55-11-8272-8512

About Cimatron

With 30 years of experience and more than 40,000 installations worldwide, Cimatron is a leading provider of integrated, CAD/CAM software solutions for mold, tool and die makers as well as manufacturers of discrete parts. Cimatron is committed to providing comprehensive, cost-effective solutions that streamline manufacturing cycles and ultimately shorten product delivery time.

The Cimatron product line includes the CimatronE and GibbsCAM brands with solutions for mold design, die design, electrodes design, 2.5 to 5 axes milling, wire EDM, turn, mill-turn, rotary milling, multi-task machining, and tombstone machining. Cimatron's subsidiaries and extensive distribution network serve and support customers in the automotive, aerospace, medical, consumer plastics, electronics, and other industries in over 40 countries worldwide.

Cimatron's shares are publicly traded on the NASDAQ exchange and the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange under the symbol CIMT. For more information, please visit Cimatron's web site at: http://www.cimatron.com

This press release includes forward looking statements, within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are subject to risk and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. Such statements may relate to Cimatron's plans, objectives and expected financial and operating results. The words "may," "could," "would," "will," "believe," "anticipate," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "plan," and similar expressions or variations thereof are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Cimatron's ability to control. The risks and uncertainties that may affect forward looking statements include, but are not limited to: currency fluctuations, global economic and political conditions, marketing demand for Cimatron products and services, long sales cycles, new product development, assimilating future acquisitions, maintaining relationships with customers and partners, and increased competition. For more details about the risks and uncertainties related to Cimatron's business, refer to Cimatron's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Cimatron cannot assess the impact of or the extent to which any single factor or risk, or combination of them, may cause. Cimatron undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

For More Information Contact:
Idit Pass Lagziel
Marketing Manager
Cimatron Ltd.
Phone: +972-73-237-0298
Email: iditp@cimatron.com

Ilan Erez
Chief Financial Officer
Cimatron Ltd.
Phone: +972-73-237-0114
Email: ilane@cimatron.com

SOURCE Cimatron Ltd

Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil - Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Studies to Facilitate Setting of Ceiling Prices for New Drugs

Wed, 23 May 2012 09:58:09 +0000

Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil - Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Studies to Facilitate Setting of Ceiling Prices for New Drugs

PR Newswire

NEW YORK, May 23, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Reportlinker.com announces that a new market research report is available in its catalogue:

Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil - Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Studies to Facilitate Setting of Ceiling Prices for New Drugs

http://www.reportlinker.com/p0866956/Pricing-and-Reimbursement-in-Brazil---Health-Technology-Assessment-HTA-Studies-to-Facilitate-Setting-of-Ceiling-Prices-for-New-Drugs.html#utm_source=prnewswire&utm_medium=pr&utm_campaign=Managed_care

Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil - Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Studies to Facilitate Setting of Ceiling Prices for New Drugs

Summary

GBI Research, the leading business intelligence provider, has released its latest research, "Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil - Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Studies to Facilitate Setting of Ceiling Prices for New Drugs". It provides a comprehensive overview of the healthcare system, and pricing and reimbursement process in Brazil with key data, information and analysis of the pricing and reimbursement steps in the country. The report closely scrutinizes the major changes in pharmaceuticals-related pricing and reimbursement in Brazil.

Due to the rapid growth in its economy, Brazil is increasingly becoming an affluent country, one which consistently spends a high proportion of its Gross domestic product (GDP) on healthcare (close to 9%, compared to the 10-12% of the US and 4-5% for other emerging nations). Through a comprehensive public health insurance programme, it aims to offer high quality healthcare provisions to the general population. While the pharmaceutical industry has grown due to the favorable regulations implemented by the government over the past two decades, the further growth of the market in Brazil will mainly arise through a direct correlation with GDP growth. This is in contrast to the growth due to an increase in the volume of the healthcare infrastructure witnessed in other emerging economies such as China and India.

The pricing of drugs in Brazil is mainly controlled by the government through various agencies such as the Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária ANVISA which grants the marketing approval and the Câmara de Regulação do Mercado de Medicamentos CMED which is responsible for determining the price of new drugs and any subsequent annual price changes. While 70% of the population is covered under the public health insurance system implemented by the government, this amounts to only about 30% of the total government expenditure on drugs. About 58% of the total healthcare expenditure is accounted for by the private healthcare system. Special programs have been launched by the government to include the essential drug list, chronic diseases and diseases that require specialized treatments. Healthcare reimbursement has been well appreciated in Brazil, and many international health organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Red Cross have lauded the efforts of the Brazilian government to reach out to the masses and make available quality healthcare at costs affordable to them.

Scope

- Detailed study of the healthcare scenario in Brazil.

- Analysis of the pricing and reimbursement mechanisms in Brazil.

- Details about government bodies which regulate different processes of pricing and reimbursement in Brazil.

- Details about the shares of major companies in the reimbursement program of Brazil.

- Insight into the various reimbursement programs available in Brazil.

Reasons to buy

- Build an understanding of the pharmaceuticals-related key pricing and reimbursement mechanisms in Brazil.

- Optimize your investment through identification and understanding of the changes in the pharmaceutical regulatory mechanism in Brazil.

- Knowledge about the regulatory bodies who undertake different processes of price registration.

- Develop effective business strategies related to new drug launches through the analytical insight gained from key trends in pricing and reimbursement scene in Brazil.

- Negotiate better with the government agencies to maximize reimbursement on the drugs by understanding the mechanism.

Table of Contents

1 Table of Contents1 Table of Contents 61.1 List of Tables 81.2 List of Figures 92 Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil - Introduction 103 Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil - Overview 113.1 Trends in Population and Life Expectancy 113.1.1 Population of Brazil 113.1.2 Comparison of Population amongst BRIC Nations and the US 123.1.3 Life Expectancy 133.2 Socio-Economic and Demographic Trends 143.2.1 Shift in Demographics 143.2.2 Rise in Personal Disposable Income 163.2.3 Disease Burden 183.3 Healthcare in Brazil 203.3.1 Healthcare Expenditure in Brazil 203.3.2 Comparative Analysis 253.4 Healthcare System in Brazil 313.4.1 Health Workforce and Infrastructure in Brazil 314 Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil - Introduction to Pharmaceutical Market of Brazil 374.1 Market Size and Market Forecasts 374.1.1 Pharmaceutical Market Sub-sectors 384.1.2 Pharmaceutical Market Share by Therapy Area 394.1.3 Opportunities and Challenges 405 Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil - Healthcare Regulation 425.1 Introduction 425.2 Current Regulatory Framework 425.2.1 Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária (ANVISA) 425.2.2 Drug Approval Process 445.2.3 Drug Registration Process 455.3 Patents and Generics (IPR) 465.4 Health Insurance Coverage 475.4.1 Public Insurance 475.4.2 Private Insurance 476 Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil - Pricing 506.1 Pricing Policies 506.1.1 Annual Price Adjustments 516.2 Price - Setting Authorities 516.2.1 Ministry of Health (MOH) 516.2.2 Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária (ANVISA) 526.2.3 National Agency for Supplementary Health (ANS) 527 Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil - Reimbursement 537.1 The Reimbursement Process 537.1.1 SUS Sistema Único de Saúde (Unified Health System) 567.2 Health Technology Assessment (HTA) in Brazil's Public Health System 577.2.1 Objectives of HTA 587.2.2 Department of Science and Technology (Departamento de Ciencia e Technologia - DECIT) 597.2.3 National Policy on Health Technology Management 598 Appendix 608.1 Market Definitions 608.2 Abbreviations 608.3 Sources 618.4 Research Methodology 618.4.1 Healthcare System 628.4.2 Pharmaceutical Regulations 628.4.3 Pricing of Pharmaceutical Drugs 628.4.4 Reimbursement of Pharmaceutical Drugs 628.4.5 Pricing and Reimbursement in Major Therapy Areas 638.5 Contact Us 638.6 Disclaimer 63

List of Tables

1.1 List of TablesTable 1: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Population (million), 2005-2010 11Table 2: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Population Estimates (million), 2010-2016 11Table 3: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, BRIC Nations and The US, Comparison of Population (million), 2005-2010 12Table 4: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, BRIC Nations and The US, Comparison of Population (million), 2010-2016 12Table 5: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Average Life Expectancy (Years), 1960-2010 13Table 6: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Population Age Structure (%), 1980-2050 14Table 7: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Personal Disposable Income, Brazil ($bn), 2006-2010 16Table 8: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Personal Disposable Income, Brazil ($bn), 2010-2015 16Table 9: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Per Capita Personal Disposable Income, Brazil ($), 2006-2010 17Table 10: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Per Capita Personal Disposable Income, Brazil ($), 2010-2015 17Table 11: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, All Causes of Death in Brazil, 2008 18Table 12: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Total Healthcare Expenditure, % of GDP, 1995-2010 20Table 13: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Public Healthcare Expenditure as Compared to Total Healthcare Expenditure, % of GDP, 1995-2010 21Table 14: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Private and Public Healthcare Expenditure, % of Total Healthcare Expenditure, 1995-2002 22Table 15: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Private and Public Health Expenditure, % of Total Health Expenditure, 2002-2010 22Table 16: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Out-of-Pocket Healthcare Expenditure as % of Private Healthcare Expenditure, 1995-2002 23Table 17: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Out-of-Pocket Healthcare Expenditure as % of Private Healthcare Expenditure, 2002-2009 24Table 18: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Total Healthcare Expenditure as % of GDP, BRIC and The US, 2006-2009 25Table 19: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Public Healthcare Spending as % of GDP, BRIC and The US, 2010-2050 26Table 20: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Public Health Expenditure as % of Total Health Expenditure, BRIC and The US, 2006-2009 27Table 21: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Per Capita Total Health Expenditure (PPP int. $), BRIC Countries, 2006-2009 28Table 22: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Per Capita Public Health Expenditure (PPP int. $), BRIC Countries, 2006-2009 29Table 23: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Out-of-Pocket Healthcare Expenditure as % of Private Healthcare Expenditure, BRIC and The US, 2006-2009 30Table 24: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Number of Physicians, BRIC and The US, 2010 32Table 25: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Number of Nursery and Midwifery Personnel, BRIC and The US, 2010 33Table 26: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Number of Dentistry Personnel, BRIC and The US, 2010 34Table 27: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Number of Pharmaceutical Personnel, BRIC and The US, 2010 35Table 28: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Number of Hospital Beds per 10,000 Population, BRIC and The US, 2009 36Table 29: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Pharmaceutical Market ($bn), 2004-2010 37Table 30: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Pharmaceutical Market Forecasts ($bn), 2010-2018 37Table 31: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Documents Required for Product Registration by ANVISA 46Table 32: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Private Healthcare Coverage Providers, Number of Plan Members and Revenue ($m), 2010 49Table 33: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Price Adjustments for Retail Drugs (%), 2004-2011 51Table 34: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Institutional and Decision-making Structure of the SUS 56

List of Figures

1.2 List of FiguresFigure 1: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Population Estimates (million), 2005-2016 11Figure 2: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, BRIC Nations and The US, Comparison of Population (million), 2005-2016 12Figure 3: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Average Life Expectancy (Years), 1960-2010 13Figure 4: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Population Age Structure (%), 1980-2050 14Figure 5: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Aging Index, 1980-2050 15Figure 6: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Personal Disposable Income, Brazil ($bn), 2006-2015 16Figure 7: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Per Capita Personal Disposable Income, Brazil ($), 2006-2015 17Figure 8: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Top 10 Causes of Death in Brazil, 2008 18Figure 9: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Total Healthcare Expenditure, % of GDP, 1995-2010 20Figure 10: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Public Healthcare Expenditure Compared to Total Healthcare Expenditure, % of GDP, 1995-2010 21Figure 11: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Private and Public Health Expenditure, % of Total Health Expenditure, 1995-2010 22Figure 12: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Out-of-Pocket Healthcare Expenditure as % of Private Healthcare Expenditure, 1995-2009 23Figure 13: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Total Healthcare Expenditure as % of GDP, BRIC and The US, 2006-2009 25Figure 14: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Public Healthcare Spending as % of GDP, BRIC and The US, 2010-2050 26Figure 15: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Public Healthcare Spending as % of GDP, BRIC and The US, 2006-2009 27Figure 16: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Per Capita Total Health Expenditure (PPP int. $), BRIC Countries, 2006-2009 28Figure 17: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Per Capita Public Health Expenditure (PPP Int. $), BRIC Countries, 2006-2009 29Figure 18: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Out-of-Pocket Health Expenditure as % of Private Healthcare Expenditure, BRIC and The US, 2006-2009 30Figure 19: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Number of Physicians per 10,000 Population, BRIC and The US, 2010 31Figure 20: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Number of Nursery and Midwifery Personnel per 10,000 Population, BRIC and The US, 2010 33Figure 21: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Number of Dentistry Personnel per 10,000 Population, BRIC and The US, 2010 34Figure 22: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Number of Pharmacist per 10,000 Population, BRIC and The US, 2010 35Figure 23: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Number of Hospital Beds per 10,000 Population, BRIC and The US, 2009 36Figure 24: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Pharmaceutical Market Forecasts ($bn), 2004-2018 37Figure 25: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Pharmaceutical Market by Sub-sectors (%), 2010 38Figure 26: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Pharmaceutical Market by Sub-sectors (%), 2010 38Figure 27: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Pharmaceutical Market by Sub-sectors (%), 2010 39Figure 28: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Market Drivers and Opportunities 40Figure 29: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Market Challenges 41Figure 30: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Three Kinds of Drugs According to ANVISA 43Figure 31: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Regulatory Approval Process for Clinical Trials 44Figure 32: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Regulatory Approval Process for Clinical Trials 45Figure 33: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Healthcare Coverage Provider, By Plan Members (%), 2009 48Figure 34: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Price-setting Mechanism for New Molecules 50Figure 35: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, The Reimbursement Process 53Figure 36: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Incorporation of Technologies Prior to Formation of CITEC, 2011 54Figure 37: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, Incorporation of Technologies After Formation of CITEC, 2011 55Figure 38: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil, HTA within the Brazilian Ministry of Health, 2011 58

To order this report:Managed care Industry: Pricing and Reimbursement in Brazil - Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Studies to Facilitate Setting of Ceiling Prices for New Drugs

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Nicolas Bombourg
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Hertz Gold Plus Rewards® Expands Global Presence

Tue, 22 May 2012 19:40:35 +0000

Hertz Gold Plus Rewards® Expands Global Presence

Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Now Available in Australia, New Zealand, and Brazil

PR Newswire

PARK RIDGE, N.J., May 22, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Hertz (NYSE:HTZ),the world's largest general use airport car rental brand, has expanded Hertz Gold Plus Rewards, the Company's customer loyalty program, into three additional global markets. Now Hertz Gold Plus Rewards participants can earn and redeem their points for rentals in Australia, New Zealand and Brazil. Gold Plus Rewards provides customers with a wide range of flexible reward options including points that won't expire, 'AnyDay' reward options that have no blackout periods, easy online redemption on hertz.com, point accrual for international rentals, and a wide variety of car rewards including cars from Hertz's Adrenaline and Prestige Collections.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110810/NY50373LOGO )

"With the addition of Australia, New Zealand and Brazil to Hertz Gold Plus Rewards, we have taken another step in expanding our customer loyalty program across the globe," commented Mark P. Frissora, Hertz Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "More importantly, we continue to make Gold Plus Rewards faster, easier, more flexible and a greater value to our members in the U.S. and Canada and around the world."

The new additions come on the heels of expanding the European market with four additional countries, including Switzerland, Belgium, Netherlands and Luxembourg. In the past two years the program expanded to more than 15 countries and territories around the world.

Hertz Gold Plus Rewards is a fast, easy, and flexible way for members to earn free rental car days. Members who elect to earn Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Points earn one point per U.S. dollar or its equivalent spent on qualifying Hertz rentals. Free weekend rental days are earned for as few as 500 points in the U.S. and Canada, making Hertz Gold Plus Rewards one of the fastest ways to free travel of any travel rewards program. Points are tracked automatically, don't expire with rental activity, rewards are not subject to blackouts and can easily be redeemed online. Members have a wide choice of rental lengths and car types including Hertz Collection vehicles like America's favorite muscle cars from the Adrenaline Collection; hybrid vehicles from the Green Traveler Collections, or even high end luxury vehicles like the Mercedes E Class, the Infinity FX35 or Cadillac SRX from the popular Prestige Collection.

Gold Plus Rewards has AnyDay Rewards with no black-out dates, allowing members to use points at any time. Members also have the flexibility to use their points when it is convenient for them as Gold Plus Rewards Points do not automatically expire. Each time a member earns points or redeems points, their points renew for an additional 24 months which means they do not have to worry about points expiring.

For Gold Plus Rewards details, customers simply need to visit www.HertzGoldPlusRewards.com.

About The Hertz Corporation
Hertz is the largest worldwide airport general use car rental brand, operating from approximately 8,500 corporate and licensee locations in approximately 150 countries in North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia, Australia, Africa, the Middle East and New Zealand. Hertz is the number one airport car rental brand in the U.S. and at 119 major airports in Europe. In addition, the Company has sales and marketing centers in 60 countries which promote Hertz business both within and outside such country. Product and service initiatives such as Hertz Gold Choice, Hertz #1 Club Gold®, NeverLost® customized, onboard navigation systems, Sirius XM Satellite Radio, and unique cars and SUVs offered through the Company's Adrenaline Prestige and Green Traveler Collections, set Hertz apart from the competition. In 2008, the Company entered the global car sharing market with its service now referred to as Hertz On Demand which rents cars by the hour and/or by the day, at various locations in the U.S., Canada and Europe. Hertz also operates one of the world's largest equipment rental businesses, Hertz Equipment Rental Corporation, offering a diverse line of rental equipment, from small tools and supplies to earthmoving equipment, as well as new and used equipment for sale, to customers ranging from major industrial companies to local contractors and consumers, from approximately 315 branches in the United States, Canada, China, France, Spain, Italy and Saudi Arabia, as well as through its international licensees. Hertz also owns Donlen Corporation, based in Northbrook, Illinois, which is a leader in providing fleet leasing and management services.

To make car rental reservations or for more information, customers can call their travel agent, or call Hertz toll-free at 1-800-654-3131. Information and reservations are also available on the web at www.hertz.com.

SOURCE The Hertz Corporation

RLC Seeking Companies for Acquisition in Brazil

Tue, 22 May 2012 16:23:11 +0000

RLC Seeking Companies for Acquisition in Brazil

PR Newswire

SAO PAULO, May 22, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Ricardo Lei Consultoria - RLC, a company that has been working in Mergers and Acquisitions for thirty years, believes that in the current international economic situation, Brazil is the second market of preference in the world for Strategic Companies or Global Private Equity Funds that are seeking companies for new acquisitions in various different areas such as: Food and Beverages, Wholesale, Beauty, Capital Goods, Education, Construction, Logistics and Transportation, Chemistry, Miscellaneous Services, Information Technology, Retail and Apparel.

According to Brazilian government forecasts, Brazil should grow between 4% to 5% in 2012. The country's strong points for "confronting" 2012 are represented by its international reserves, measures to stimulate growth through monetary policy, tax reduction and various measures for internal administrative improvements, in addition to the positive effect of the increase in the minimum wage.

Recently, Brazil officially became the sixth largest economy in the world, as confirmed by the Center for Economic and Business Research (CEBR - Centro de Pesquisa Economica e Empresarial), with total GDP of R$ 4.143 trillion (US$ 2.469 trillion) in 2011.

It is noteworthy that Brazil today is experiencing a great moment in contrast to what is going on in the global economy, particularly the countries of the EURO zone. Moreover, with its large population that sustains intense domestic consumption, vast natural resources and increasingly strong industry, it is most certainly a country that is destined to keep growing.

Today, Ricardo Lei Consultoria - RLC is in a position to present a variety of opportunities for acquisitions of companies and investments in Brazil, considering that in 2011 these companies had EBITDA assessed at between US$ 3 to 30 million, and in some cases they are market leaders, while there are also some opportunities that have been identified whose EBITDA is in an even higher bracket.

For more information please contact:
Sofia Schulze Hermano
Sofia@ricardolei.com.br
+55-11-3254-7620

RLC Seeking Companies for Acquisition in Brazil

Tue, 22 May 2012 15:45:08 +0000

RLC Seeking Companies for Acquisition in Brazil

PR Newswire

For more information please contact:
Sofia Schulze Hermano
Sofia@ricardolei.com.br
55 11 3254-7620

SOURCE Ricardo Lei Consultoria - RLC

Top Brands Thrive Despite Economy According to Millward Brown's Latest BrandZ[TM] top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands Study

Tue, 22 May 2012 00:00:00 +0000

Top Brands Thrive Despite Economy According to Millward Brown's Latest BrandZ[TM] top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands Study

PR Newswire

NEW YORK, May 22, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

No1 Brand Apple Grows 19% to $182.9 Billion While IBM Eases Past Google to Take No.2 Spot

First African brand enters ranking

The world's biggest brands have continued to grow in value during the current economic uncertainty, according to WPP company Millward Brown's annual BrandZ^[^TM^]Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands study. The No1 brand for the second year, Apple, rose 19% in value and is now worth $182.9 billion. IBM grew 15% in value to $115.9 billion and overtook Google, which dropped to third place in the ranking and is now worth $107.8 billion. In advance of its IPO, eight year old Facebook rose 74% in value, making it the fastest brand value riser in the ranking. Worth $33.2 billion the social network moved up to No.19 from No.35.

The study, commissioned by WPP and conducted by Millward Brown Optimor and now in its seventh year, identifies and ranks the world's most valuable brands by their dollar value, an analysis based on financial data, market intelligence and consumer measures of brand equity.

The 2012 BrandZ Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands ranking demonstrates the power of strong brands as both a driver of new business growth and a critical support in hard times. Between 2006 and 2012, the total value of the BrandZ Top 100 rose 66% and is now worth $2.4 trillion.

"Brands are an insurance policy for businesses," said Eileen Campbell, Global CEO of brand research company Millward Brown. "Despite a prolonged period of economic stress, political uncertainty and natural disasters that buffeted brands across many categories, the value of the world's leading brands keeps rising across many categories, sustaining and nurturing businesses."

The Top 10 Most Valuable Global Brands 2012

                                                                        Brand
        Rank   Rank  Rank                                               Value
        2011 change  2012           Category              Brand       2012 ($M)
           1      0     1     Tech                   Apple             182,951
           3      1     2     Tech                   IBM               115,985
           2     -1     3     Tech                   Google            107,857
           4      0     4     Fast Food              McDonald's         95,188
           5      0     5     Tech                   Microsoft          76,651
           6      0     6     Soft drinks            Coca-Cola          74,286
           8      1     7     Tobacco                Marlboro           73,612
           7     -1     8     Communication Provider AT&T               68,870
          13      4     9     Communication Provider Verizon            49,151
           9     -1    10     Communication Provider China Mobile       47,041

David Roth for WPP said "Brands help businesses create competitive differentiation, command a price premium and become more resilient to crises or economic turbulence. This year, those businesses that leveraged technology, focused on the customer experience or boosted control of their brands thrived".

Apple continues to innovate and maintain its 'luxury' brand status, but faces future competition from Samsung. Now worth more than $14.1 billion, thanks in part to the success of its Galaxy handsets, Samsung is successfully outpacing Apple in a significant number of markets by positioning as a cool, well-priced alternative to the ubiquitous iPhone."

Key findings highlighted in this year's research report include:

Technology Prevails: Technology has become ubiquitous in all areas of our lives. Seven of the top 10 brands are technology or telecoms brands. However, the power of smart, simple-to-use technology can also be seen beyond these two sectors. In other categories - cars, financial services, luxury and retail for example - we can also see that brands are gaining significant advantages by using smart technology to enhance their customer experience. For example, Burberry - up 21% to $4 billion - created a virtual world where younger brand followers can view fashion shows and more.
The Rise of Africa: This year's ranking highlights the progress of Africa's economic development with the arrival of the first African brand in the Top 100 - South African mobile company MTN - No 88 at $9.2 billion. But it's not just African brands that are thriving south of the Sahara. Around 40% of Guinness's sales come from Africa, Airtel's third quarter results showed a 16% increase in revenue in Africa. Similarly, Orange enjoyed rapid growth in Africa in 2011, while Walmart invested there with the acquisition of Massmart.
The Future is Mobile: The future of the internet will be predominantly mobile rather than computer based. Mobile, to some extent, has been shielded from the recession as one of the few items consumers don't want to give up or cut back on. The most valuable telecoms brand is AT&T worth $68.8 billion. Whilst the USA's largest mobile service provider, Verizon, increased its brand value by 15% in the last year and is now worth $49.1 billion.
Retail: Constructing an Omni-Channel Business: The customer experience is a new focus for many retailers as they recognise its importance in keeping customers loyal and the need to be present anywhere and everywhere on the path to purchase. Walmart knocked Amazon from the top position and its brand is now worth $34.4 billion whilst Amazon is now worth $34 billion.
Brands with Women on the Board Outperform: As the number of women on corporate boards continues to rise,the BrandZ Top100 study this year reveals the success that women bring to brands. 77% of the brands appearing in the BrandZ^[^TM^]Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands have women in the boardroom. The average value of brands with women on the boards is $27 billion, double that of those companies without female directors. Not only that, these brands also show an average five-year growth of 66% compared to an average growth of only 6% for those BrandZ Top100 brands that don't have a woman on the board.
Strong Brands Provide Better Shareholder Value: An analysis of BrandZ Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands as a 'stock portfolio' over the last seven years shows a highly favourable performance compared to a current stock market index, the S&P500. While the total return on investment (ROI) for all companies in the S&P500 index was just 2.3%, the BrandZ Portfolio provided a 36.3% ROI, proving that companies with strong brands are able to deliver better value to their shareholders. A graphic is available here.

The BrandZ Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands study is the only valuation in the world that takes into account what people think about the brands they buy alongside rigorous analysis of financial data, market valuations, analyst reports and risk profiles. The research report, which is available online, includes a ranking and analysis of the most valuable brands for key regions of the world and 13 market sectors. Download the complete BrandZ ranking here, including regional and category breakdowns. The rankings and a great deal more are also available as a free interactive mobile app for Apple and Android and as an iPad magazine.

NOTES TO EDITORS:

About the BrandZ Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands Ranking

Developed for WPP's operating companies by Millward Brown Optimor, the BrandZ Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands ranking is now in its seventh year. It is the only study to combine

measures of brand equity based on interviews with over 2 million consumers globally about thousands of global "consumer facing" and business-to-business brands with a rigorous analysis of the financial and business performance of each company (using data from Bloomberg and Kantar Worldpanel) to separate the value that brand plays in driving business revenue and market capitalization. Consumer perception of a brand is a key input in determining brand value because brands are a combination of business performance, product delivery, clarity of positioning, and leadership. The ranking takes into account regional variations since, even for truly global brands, measures of brand contribution might differ substantially across countries.

About Millward Brown

Millward Brown is one of the world's leading research agencies and is expert in effective advertising, marketing communications, media and brand equity research. Through the use of an integrated suite of validated research solutions - both qualitative and quantitative - Millward Brown helps clients build strong brands and services. Millward Brown has 82 offices in 52 countries. Additional practices include Millward Brown's Global Media Practice (media effectiveness unit), The Neuroscience Practice (using neuroscience to enhance traditional research techniques), Millward Brown Optimor (focused on helping clients maximize the returns on their brand and marketing investments), Dynamic Logic (the world leader in digital marketing effectiveness) and Firefly Millward Brown (a global qualitative research business). Millward Brown is part of Kantar, WPP's insight, information and consultancy group.

About WPP

WPP is the world's largest communications services group. Through its operating companies, the Group provides a comprehensive range of advertising and marketing services including advertising; media investment management; consumer insight; public relations and public affairs; branding and identity; healthcare communications; direct, digital, promotion and relationship marketing and specialist communications. The company employs over 158,000 people (including associates) in 2,500 offices in 107 countries.

For further information please contact:

Delyth Hughes
Associate Director, Global Communications and Marketing, Millward Brown
Tel: +44(0)1926-826179
Email: Delyth.Hughes@millwardbrown.com

Or

Teresa Horscroft
Eureka Communications
Tel: +44(0)1420-564346
Mobile: +44(0)7990-520390
Email: teresa@eurekacomms.co.uk

Top Brands Thrive Despite Economy According to Millward Brown's Latest BrandZ[TM] top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands Study

Tue, 22 May 2012 00:00:00 +0000

Top Brands Thrive Despite Economy According to Millward Brown's Latest BrandZ[TM] top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands Study

PR Newswire

NEW YORK, May 22, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

No1 Brand Apple Grows 19% to $182.9 Billion While IBM Eases Past Google to Take No.2 Spot

First African brand enters ranking

The Top 10 Most Valuable Global Brands 2012

                                                                        Brand
        Rank   Rank  Rank                                               Value
        2011 change  2012           Category              Brand       2012 ($M)
           1      0     1     Tech                   Apple             182,951
           3      1     2     Tech                   IBM               115,985
           2     -1     3     Tech                   Google            107,857
           4      0     4     Fast Food              McDonald's         95,188
           5      0     5     Tech                   Microsoft          76,651
           6      0     6     Soft drinks            Coca-Cola          74,286
           8      1     7     Tobacco                Marlboro           73,612
           7     -1     8     Communication Provider AT&T               68,870
          13      4     9     Communication Provider Verizon            49,151
           9     -1    10     Communication Provider China Mobile       47,041

Key findings highlighted in this year's research report include:

Technology Prevails: Technology has become ubiquitous in all areas of our lives. Seven of the top 10 brands are technology or telecoms brands. However, the power of smart, simple-to-use technology can also be seen beyond these two sectors. In other categories - cars, financial services, luxury and retail for example - we can also see that brands are gaining significant advantages by using smart technology to enhance their customer experience. For example, Burberry - up 21% to $4 billion - created a virtual world where younger brand followers can view fashion shows and more.
The Rise of Africa: This year's ranking highlights the progress of Africa's economic development with the arrival of the first African brand in the Top 100 - South African mobile company MTN - No 88 at $9.2 billion. But it's not just African brands that are thriving south of the Sahara. Around 40% of Guinness's sales come from Africa, Airtel's third quarter results showed a 16% increase in revenue in Africa. Similarly, Orange enjoyed rapid growth in Africa in 2011, while Walmart invested there with the acquisition of Massmart.
The Future is Mobile: The future of the internet will be predominantly mobile rather than computer based. Mobile, to some extent, has been shielded from the recession as one of the few items consumers don't want to give up or cut back on. The most valuable telecoms brand is AT&T worth $68.8 billion. Whilst the USA's largest mobile service provider, Verizon, increased its brand value by 15% in the last year and is now worth $49.1 billion.
Retail: Constructing an Omni-Channel Business: The customer experience is a new focus for many retailers as they recognise its importance in keeping customers loyal and the need to be present anywhere and everywhere on the path to purchase. Walmart knocked Amazon from the top position and its brand is now worth $34.4 billion whilst Amazon is now worth $34 billion.
Brands with Women on the Board Outperform: As the number of women on corporate boards continues to rise,the BrandZ Top100 study this year reveals the success that women bring to brands. 77% of the brands appearing in the BrandZ^[^TM^]Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands have women in the boardroom. The average value of brands with women on the boards is $27 billion, double that of those companies without female directors. Not only that, these brands also show an average five-year growth of 66% compared to an average growth of only 6% for those BrandZ Top100 brands that don't have a woman on the board.
Strong Brands Provide Better Shareholder Value: An analysis of BrandZ Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands as a 'stock portfolio' over the last seven years shows a highly favourable performance compared to a current stock market index, the S&P500. While the total return on investment (ROI) for all companies in the S&P500 index was just 2.3%, the BrandZ Portfolio provided a 36.3% ROI, proving that companies with strong brands are able to deliver better value to their shareholders. A graphic is available here.

NOTES TO EDITORS:

About the BrandZ Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands Ranking

Developed for WPP's operating companies by Millward Brown Optimor, the BrandZ Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands ranking is now in its seventh year. It is the only study to combine

About Millward Brown

About WPP

SOURCE Millward Brown

MZ Group Begins Operations in India

Mon, 21 May 2012 20:51:50 +0000

MZ Group Begins Operations in India

MZ to offer its renowned one-stop-shop business model from its new Mumbai office

PR Newswire

MUMBAI, India, May 21, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- MZ Group, the world's largest independent investor relations, market intelligence and applied technology company - subsidiary of @titude Global - announced today the launch of MZ India. MZ India will be headed by Vibhu Agarwal who brings with him a decade of experience in the local IR market.

MZ Group will provide a complete suite of services including planning and implementing global investor and media relations programs, corporate communications, capital market intelligence, IR and corporate websites, structuring companies for IPOs and corporate governance.

Speaking about the MZ footprint in India, VIbhu Agarwal, Managing Director, MZ India, said: "With an enormous amount of experience and products that the MZ group brings along, we are sure we will be able to provide comprehensive and integrated communication solutions to the Indian companies, helping them successfully build and manage their shareholders value".

"We are certain that our dominant role in Latin America, where we have attracted 92% of the region's IPOs over the past seven years, can be duplicated in India if we can adapt our experience to local conditions by providing the right business with the most appropriate offering, building on our unique business model combining technology, content, services and consulting, " added Rodolfo Zabisky, CEO of @titude global.

About MZ Group: MZ Group is the world's largest independent provider of investor relations (IR), corporate communications, equity journey, corporate governance, market intelligence and applied technology services. Since its foundation in 1999, the Group has focused on innovation and personalized service, supported by its exclusive one-stop-shop business model. With its own offices in New York, Chicago, San Diego, Sao Paulo, Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Taipei, Vancouver and Mumbai, the Group employs more than 350 professionals and has more than 580 clients in 12 countries.

About @titude Global: Latin America's third largest corporate communication group and the world's largest independent provider of investor relations services. @titude Global, an investee of the private equity fund Jardim Botanico, is headquartered in Sao Paulo and has offices in Atlanta, Chicago, Hong Kong, Mumbai, New York, San Diego, Beijing, Vancouver, Taipei and Shanghai. The Group provides exclusive services to more than 580 clients in 12 countries through its leading brands: AMPM, LEAD, MVL and MZ.

Contact
Vibhu Agarwal
+91 9650080459
Vibhu.agarwal@mzgroup.com

SOURCE MZ Group