Brazil: Digital assets and Grupo Marabraz judicial recovery

In Brazil, the legal landscape for digital assets is evolving following recent decisions by the Superior Court of Justice (STJ). The court has strengthened the legal foundations for using cryptocurrencies in contractual relationships, including admitting the seizure of crypto-assets from debtors via exchanges and recognizing the validity of clauses establishing cryptocurrency payments between private parties. These developments, supported by the legal framework of Law No. 14,478/2022, allow digital assets like Bitcoin, Tether, and Ether to be integrated into commercial operations, international trade, and judicial recoveries.

Separately, a judge in São Paulo has granted a judicial recovery request for Grupo Marabraz. The group, which reports total debts of R$ 140 million, is subject to a 180-day stay on debt executions. The company has 60 days to present a recovery plan to creditors and must submit financial statements every 30 days. The group's financial crisis is reportedly linked to a family dispute among its controllers.