Since the World Cup ended in July, Brazilian economic activity has plummeted, inflationary pressures have intensified, and consumer and business confidence have collapsed. Just how sick is Brazil’s economy, and how will its malaise affect the outcome of the presidential election in October?

SAO PAULO – After years of impressive growth, Brazil’s economic prospects appear increasingly dim. Since the World Cup ended in July, economic activity has plummeted, inflationary pressures have intensified, and consumer and business confidence have collapsed, leading many economists to slash their growth forecasts for this year. So just how sick is Brazil’s economy, and how will its malaise affect the outcome of the presidential election in October?