HENRIQUE MEIRELLES ADDRESSES "LIDE MIAMI" RELAUNCH

MIAMI, FLORIDA (SEPTEMBER 12, 2025) – On Wednesday (10), LIDE officially celebrated the relaunch of its Miami chapter, ushering in a new era for the international network of business leaders in one of the most dynamic economic hubs of the United States. Now led by Cristiano Piquet, the event took place at the elegant St. Regis Residences in Sunny Isles Beach, bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, and political leaders from Brazil and the United States to discuss innovation and global opportunities.

With the theme “Miami: Global Hub of Opportunities for Business and Innovation,” the evening was designed to connect entrepreneurs and expand the presence of Brazilian companies in the U.S. market. The program included a welcome reception, cocktail hour, and a formal dinner, creating the perfect atmosphere for networking and exchanging strategic insights.

The highlight of the night was a keynote address by former Brazilian Finance Minister Henrique Meirelles, who emphasized the strength and credibility of Brazil’s economy. “Brazil has an exemplary financial system, recognized worldwide. Consider the digital payment revolution brought about by Pix. In only a few years, the country achieved extraordinary progress, demonstrating its strength and capacity for innovation. This efficiency is one of the key pillars sustaining our economy and attracting international investors,” Meirelles said.

Pix is a government-backed instant payment system launched by Brazil’s Central Bank in 2020, allowing free, real-time transfers 24/7, functioning like a blend of Zelle, Venmo, and wire transfers, but on a national scale and with no transaction fees for individuals.

Following the keynote, a discussion panel featured João Doria, former governor of São Paulo and founder of LIDE, alongside Tiago Carneiro, João Pedro Volz, Nelson Stabile, and Austin Allison, reinforcing Miami’s role as a strategic platform for bilateral business.

“Miami stands as a strategic hub for those looking to invest and expand, especially for Brazilians seeking international growth. LIDE is the bridge that connects entrepreneurs, fosters networking, and creates opportunities. We continue linking Brazil to the world, driving business, generating jobs, and strengthening commercial ties,” Doria stated during his participation.

Leading this new phase, Cristiano Piquet celebrated the milestone. “Taking over the presidency of LIDE Miami is a challenge that motivates me. My entrepreneurial journey in Florida has shown that when you follow the rules and believe in hard work, dreams can become reality. Our goal is to support Brazilians who want to build their businesses here, strengthening Brazil’s presence in the U.S. market and creating new opportunities for everyone,” Piquet said. With this relaunch, LIDE Miami reaffirms its mission to connect business leaders and foster investments, consolidating the city as one of the world’s most important gateways for international trade and innovation.

Understanding LIDE Global

Founded in 2003 by Brazilian entrepreneur and political leader João Doria, LIDE Global has grown into an international network that connects business executives, investors and public figures across more than 20 countries. The group was created to foster dialogue and partnerships that encourage free enterprise, innovation and economic development, turning its events into powerful meeting points for decision-makers on both sides of the Atlantic.

Doria, who later became the first-round elected mayor of São Paulo and governor of Brazil’s largest state, remains a driving force behind the network as co-chairman of the board. Under his guidance, LIDE has evolved from a Brazilian business forum into a platform that links entrepreneurs and policymakers worldwide, shaping debates on investment trends and market opportunities.