Lula weighs Alckmin, Fonteles, Moretti for Finance Ministry

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has not yet decided who will lead the Ministry of Finance, amid market pressure following Monday's stock market crash and surging interest rates and currency values. Current minister Dario Durigan is considered for retention but faces internal disputes, with Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, Piauí Governor Rafael Fonteles, and Planning Minister Bruno Moretti emerging as leading candidates. Alckmin's fiscal record in São Paulo and non-PT status are assets, while Fonteles brings state treasury experience and Moretti has recent success improving government popularity. The decision reflects internal power struggles within the government and PT, with expectations that Lula may signal his direction by week's end, though some officials suggest the choice could be delayed until year's end.