Light 'theft' costs R$ 11.5 billion per year and drives up the bill for those who pay on time
extra27 August 2026 at 20:00
The illegal use of basic services such as electricity, water, internet, and TV, known as "gato" (theft), costs R$ 11.5 billion per year to Brazil, harming consumers who pay on time, utility companies, and tax revenue. The topic was discussed in a panel at the Illegal Market Seminar, moderated by reporter Fabio Gramer. In the telecommunications sector, more than 10 million non-certified products were removed from the market between 2018 and 2025 as a way to combat the illegal offering of services.
Paris inaugurated the first specialized butter store, which went viral on social media and is attracting crowds from all over the world. France is the world's largest butter consumer, with each French person consuming an average of eight kilos per year, which makes this business a guaranteed success in the country.
The National Monetary Council (CMN) approved the extension of the repayment period for the Move Brasil program loan for taxi drivers, app-based drivers, and taxi cooperatives, one of the Lula government's electoral bets. The maximum reimbursement period was extended from 72 to up to 84 months, maintaining up to six months of principal grace period. The increase in the maximum value of the financed vehicle from R$150 thousand to R$200 thousand was also confirmed.
E-redes announced more than 100 scheduled power outages for Sunday, August 30, in Coimbra, affecting various areas of the city. The electricity company asks consumers to check the specific times and locations of the outages to prepare themselves.
Mercedes-Benz launched in Portugal the new version of the C-Class Limousine and Station, with prices starting from 52 thousand euros. The model presents technological and design updates, reinforcing the brand's position in the premium segment of the Portuguese automotive market.
