Brazilian investment bank BTG Pactual is seeking to expand its operations in Asia, eyeing opportunities arising from the growing demand for data centres among Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) firms, as Beijing and Brasília strengthen their trade and investment ties amid tariff disputes with the US.
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Established in 1983, BTG is one of Brazil’s largest banks, with a presence across Latin America, the US, Europe and the Middle East. During an interview with the Post in Hong Kong on Saturday, BTG partner João Scandiuzzi said the bank was considering opening a new office in the city.
The Hong Kong visit was part of a broader roadshow in China last week, during which BTG executives, accompanied by a delegation of two dozen Brazilian entrepreneurs and family offices, toured major cities including Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen.
“Lots of Chinese companies, especially in the electricity sector, come to us when seeking investments in Brazil … and I think the relationship between Brazil and China in general should be furthered,” Scandiuzzi said.
BTG’s predecessor, which was owned by Swiss Bank UBS from 2006 to 2009, previously maintained an investment office in Hong Kong. However, it closed around 2015 after the departure of former UBS personnel, according to Scandiuzzi.
The potential revival of BTG’s Hong Kong office aligns with a recent pledge by China and Brazil to enhance their bilateral relationship amid global trade challenges.
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