Itaú Bank Orders Gradual Return to Office for Staff

Brazil’s Itaú Unibanco announced a shift in its hybrid work model, requiring administrative employees to work three days per week on‑site. The bank said the change is intended to boost collaboration, knowledge exchange and decision‑making speed in a dynamic financial market. A rollout schedule will give staff time to adjust without abrupt disruption to personal and family routines.

The São Paulo, Osasco and Region Bank Workers Union criticised the lack of prior negotiation and said it will meet with the bank to discuss the new rules. The move coincides with a broader global trend of companies scaling back remote work. In São Paulo, office vacancy rates dropped to 13.4% in the first quarter of 2026, the lowest level in 14 years, reflecting renewed corporate occupancy. Itaú also plans to invest in modernising its offices with upgraded technology and integrated workspaces.

The announcement highlights the ongoing debate over remote versus on‑site work and its impact on employee flexibility and corporate real‑estate markets in Brazil.