Paulo Guedes

Paulo Guedes (born October 7, 1957) is a Brazilian economist and government official who served as Minister of Economy in the administration of President Jair Bolsonaro from 2019 to 2021. Born in Rio de Janeiro, Guedes earned his PhD in economics from the University of Chicago, where he was influenced by free-market economic theory. Before joining government, he was a successful businessman and founder of the BTG Pactual investment bank, establishing himself as a prominent figure in Brazilian finance. As Minister of Economy, Guedes advocated for ambitious free-market reforms including pension reform, privatization of state-owned enterprises, and trade liberalization. He became known for his candid public statements and sometimes controversial comments on economic and social policy. While his policies attracted supporters who viewed him as a necessary voice for economic modernization, critics argued his approach would disadvantage working-class Brazilians. Guedes' tenure coincided with significant economic challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic. His appointment was considered influential in shaping Brazil's economic direction during the Bolsonaro presidency, and his career reflects the broader debates about market-oriented economics in Latin America.