Brazil's presidential runoff dominated by household debt as Lula and Bolsonaro court voters

Brazil's presidential runoff between Lula and Flavio Bolsonaro is dominated by household debt, with 82% of families owing money and interest rates exceeding 400% annually, despite strong economic indicators on paper. Both candidates have promised purchasing power support, including debt relief and social aid, ahead of Sunday's tight vote. Average monthly income is only about 600 euros, forcing many into high-cost credit, with 30% of household income now going to debt repayment. Brazil's central bank maintains high benchmark rates near 13.75% to curb inflation, worsened by public deficits over 8% of GDP. Online gambling losses totaling 10.6 billion euros last year have further strained household finances.