Brazil police target Rio pension fund in probe linked to Banco Master, sources say

Core Viewpoint - Brazil's federal police are investigating the Rio de Janeiro state's pension fund, Rioprevidencia, in connection with the collapse of Banco Master, focusing on approximately 970 million reais ($183.56 million) in financial bills issued by the bank [1][2]. Group 1: Investigation Details - The investigation is linked to Banco Master, which was shut down by Brazil's central bank due to a liquidity crisis and regulatory violations [2]. - The liquidation of Banco Master resulted in the largest payout by Brazil's private deposit guarantee fund, but the securities held by Rioprevidencia were not eligible for this coverage [2]. Group 2: Rioprevidencia's Position - Rioprevidencia claims protection under a court ruling from December, which mandates the retention of approximately 970 million reais to safeguard retirement assets for civil servants and pensioners [3]. - The pension fund stated that the investment is being repaid through the retention of proceeds from payroll-deducted loans that would have otherwise gone to Banco Master [3]. - Rioprevidencia expects the investment to be fully settled within about two years, and asserts that all its investments comply with current legislation and oversight rules [4].