As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 30, 2009 
 

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, DC 20549
FORM 20-F
ANNUAL REPORT
PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008

Commission File Number: 1-15250

Banco Bradesco S.A.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

Bank Bradesco
(Translation of Registrant’s name into English)

Federative Republic of Brazil
(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

Cidade de Deus S/N – Vila Yara
06029-900 – Osasco – SP
Brazil
(Address of principal executive offices)

Domingos Figueiredo de Abreu
(55 11 3684-4011) –
Cidade de Deus S/N – Vila Yara
06029-900 – Osasco – SP
Brazil
(Name, Telephone, Email and/or Facsimile number and Address of Company Contact Person)

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class    Name of each exchange on which registered 
   
American Depositary Shares, or ADSs (evidenced by American   New York Stock Exchange 
Depositary Receipts, or ADRs), each representing 1 Preferred Share     
Preferred Shares    New York Stock Exchange * 
_________________
(*)      Not for trading, but only in connection with the registration of ADSs pursuant to requirements of the New York Stock Exchange.

     Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act: None

Number of outstanding shares of each class of stock of Bradesco as of December 31, 2008:

1,534,805,958    Common Shares, without par value 
1,534,900,221    Preferred Shares, without par value 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

Yes 
  No 

If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

Yes 
  No 

1


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

Yes    No 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

Yes 
 
No 
  N/A 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer  
 
Accelerated filer 
  Non-accelerated filer 

Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:

U.S. GAAP   International Financial Reporting Standards as issued    Other
  by the International Accounting Standards Board  

If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow:

Item 17   Item 18

If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act):

Yes 
  No 

2


FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

     This annual report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or “Securities Act,” and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or “Exchange Act.” These statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about future events and financial trends that affect or may affect our business.

     Words such as “believe,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “expect,” “intend,” “target,” “estimate,” “project,” “predict,” “forecast,” “guideline,” “should” and similar expressions are used to identify forward-looking statements.

     These statements are not guarantees of future performance, and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict and that may be beyond our control. Our actual results could differ materially from those expressed or forecast in any forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the following:

 All forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement, and you should not place reliance on any forward-looking statement contained in this annual report. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information or future events or for any other reason.

     In this annual report, the terms “Bradesco,” the “Company,” the “Entity,” the “Bank,” “we” or “us” refer to Banco Bradesco S.A., a sociedade anônima organized under the laws of Brazil and, unless the context otherwise requires, its consolidated subsidiaries. We are a full service financial institution providing, directly or through our subsidiaries, a full range of banking, financial, insurance and private pension plan services to all segments of the Brazilian domestic market. Our operations are based primarily in Brazil.

3


    

     References herein to “real,” “reais” or “R$” are to the Brazilian real, the official currency of Brazil. References herein to “U.S. dollars” or “US$” are to United States dollars, the official currency of the United States.

4


PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL AND OTHER INFORMATION

     Item 18 of this annual report includes our audited consolidated financial statements as of and for the years ended December 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008, including the notes thereto, which have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, or “U.S. GAAP.”

     For your convenience, certain amounts have been converted from reais to U.S. dollars. Unless otherwise indicated, these conversions have been calculated using the U.S. dollar selling rate at closing published by the Central Bank of Brazil, which we call the “Central Bank,” at June 12, 2009 of R$1.9301 per US$1.00. Therefore, you should not read these exchange rate conversions as representations that any such amounts have been, could have been or could be converted into U.S. dollars at those or any other exchange rates, or at that or any other date. See “Key Information—Exchange Rate Information” for more information regarding the exchange rates applicable to the Brazilian currency since 2002.

     The following table sets forth, for the dates indicated, the exchange rate of reais to U.S. dollars based on the noon buying rate in New York City as reported by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and the U.S. dollar selling rate as reported by the Central Bank at closing:

    Noon Buying    Closing Selling 
     
Date    Rate for U.S. dollars    Rate for U.S. dollars 
     
December 31, 2006    2.1342    2.1380 
December 31, 2007    1.7790    1.7713 
December 31, 2008    2.3416    2.3370 
June 12, 2009    1.9214    1.9301 

     As a result of recent fluctuations in the real/U.S. dollar exchange rate, the closing selling exchange rate at June 12, 2009 or at any other date may not be indicative of current or future exchange rates.

     Certain figures included in this annual report have been subject to rounding adjustments. Accordingly, figures shown as totals in certain tables may not be an arithmetic aggregation of the figures that precede them.

5


PART I

Item 1. Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers

     Not applicable.

Item 2. Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable

     Not applicable.

Item 3. Key Information

Selected Financial Data

     We present below our selected financial data prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP as of and for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008. The data for each of the five years in the period ended December 31, 2008 is derived from our audited consolidated financial statements, which were audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers Auditores Independentes.

     The following selected financial data should be read in conjunction with, and is qualified in its entirety by reference to, our audited consolidated financial statements, including the notes thereto, “Presentation of Financial and Other Information” and “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects.”

     Certain prior year amounts for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 have been reclassified to conform to the years-ended December 31, 2007 and 2008 presentation standards. These reclassifications had no impact on our assets, liabilities, shareholders’ equity and net income.

    Year ended December 31, 
   
    2004    2005    2006     2007    2008    2008 
             
        (R$ in millions)       (US$ in millions) (1)
Data from the Consolidated Statement of Income:                         
Net interest income(2)   R$14,590   R$18,485    R$21,402    R$23,771    R$25,371    US$12,859 
Provision for loan losses    (1,429)   (1,823)   (3,767)   (4,616)   (6,651)   (3,371)
             
Net interest income after provision for loan losses    13,161    16,662    17,635    19,155    18,720    9,488 
Fee and commission income(2)   4,296    5,121    6,379    7,819    8,997    4,560 
Insurance premiums    6,764    7,805    8,121    8,843    10,963    5,557 
Pension plan income    374    377    791    555    710    360 
Equity in the earnings of unconsolidated companies(3)   66    186    224    407    597    303 
Other non-interest income (2)(4)   2,768    4,051    4,338    6,257    2,228    1,129 
Operating expenses (5)   (8,921)   (9,645)   (11,310)   (13,005)   (14,168)   (7,181)
Insurance claims    (4,822)   (5,501)   (6,124)   (6,012)   (7,391)   (3,746)
Changes in provisions for insurance, pension plans,                         
     certificated savings plans and pension investment                         
     contracts    (4,326)   (3,939)   (4,199)   (4,981)   (4,225)   (2,141)
Pension plan operating expenses    (751)   (505)   (560)   (478)   (482)   (244)
Insurance and pension plan selling expenses    (907)   (1,041)   (852)   (1,157)   (1,014)   (514)
Other non-interest expense (2) (6)   (3,762)   (4,819)   (5,693)   (6,106)   (8,187)   (4,151)
             
Income before income taxes and minority interest    3,940    8,752    8,750    11,297    6,748    3,420 
             
Taxes on income    (601)   (2,431)   (2,273)   (3,352)   401    203 
Minority interest    (12)   (11)   (15)   (37)   (131)   (66)
             
Net income    R$3,327    R$6,310    R$6,462    R$7,908    R$7,018    US$3,557 
             

6


    Year ended December 31, 
   
    2004    2005    2006    2007    2008    2008 
             
        (R$, except number of shares)   (US$ in millions)(1)
Data per Share (7)                        
Earnings per share (8)(9)                        
     Common    R$1.11    R$2.05    R$2.09    R$2.50    R$2.18    US$1.10 
     Preferred    1.22    2.26    2.30    2.75    2.40    1.22 
Dividends/ interest on                         
  shareholders’ equity per share (10)                        
     Common    0.44    0.62    0.70    0.89    0.80    0.41 
     Preferred    R$0.49    R$0.67    R$0.77    R$0.98    R$0.88    US$0.45 
Weighted average number of                         
  outstanding shares:                         
     Common    1,435,596,690    1,465,770,912    1,470,575,223    1,504,008,900    1,531,358,621   
     Preferred    1,416,490,788    1,460,839,863    1,472,508,873    1,505,136,649    1,531,430,349   

  Year ended December 31, 
   
  2004    2005    2006     2007    2008    2008 
             
      (R$ in millions)       (US$ in millions) (1)
   
Data from the Consolidated Balance Sheet:                        
Assets                       
     Cash and due from banks  R$2,690    R$3,447    R$4,748    R$5,485    R$9,416    US$4,772 
     Interest–earning deposits in other banks  7,976    13,119    8,918    7,887    14,435    7,316 
     Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to                       
     resell  19,435    10,985    14,649    40,601    46,950    23,796 
     Brazilian Central Bank compulsory deposits  20,209    21,686    23,461    31,813    26,384    13,373 
     Trading and available–for–sale securities, at fair value  43,197    55,658    86,614    88,799    121,804    61,735 
     Held to maturity securities  4,200    4,121    3,265    2,981    4,097    2,077 
     Loans(11) 63,500    83,311    98,724    133,137    174,835    88,614 
     Allowance for loan losses  (4,063)   (4,964)   (6,552)   (7,769)   (10,318)   (5,230)
     Equity investees and other investments  708    397    527    761    881    447 
     Premises and equipment, net  2,946    2,721    3,000    3,547    4,263    2,161 
     Goodwill  262    332    667    883    1,286    652 
     Intangible assets, net (11) 1,792    1,554    2,163    2,917    3,138    1,590 
     Other assets (11) 14,227    14,227    19,087    23,467    38,119    19,320 
             
 
Total assets  177,079    206,594    259,271    334,509    435,290    220,623 
             
 
Liabilities                       
     Deposits  68,647    75,407    83,925    98,341    164,501    83,376 
     Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to                       
          repurchase  16,532    22,886    42,875    69,015    74,730    37,876 
     Short–term borrowings  8,272    7,066    5,709    7,989    13,849    7,019 
     Long–term debt  19,653    23,316    30,122    38,915    47,255    23,951 
     Other liabilities  48,343    57,612    70,083    86,879    97,693    49,515 
             
Total liabilities  161,447    186,287    232,714    301,139    398,028    201,737 
             
Minority interest in consolidated subsidiaries  73    88    93    281    332    168 
 
Shareholders’ Equity                       
     Common shares (12) 3,525    6,497    7,095    9,497    11,500    5,829 
     Preferred shares (13) 3,475    6,503    7,105    9,503    11,500    5,829 
             
     Capital stock  7,000    13,000    14,200    19,000    23,000    11,658 
     Total shareholders’ equity  15,559    20,219    26,464    33,089    36,930    18,718 
             
 
     Total liabilities and shareholdersequity  177,079    206,594    259,271    334,509    435,290    220,623 
             
 
Average assets (14) 162,891    188,091    227,898    289,456    376,546    190,849 
Average liabilities (14) 148,814    170,677    206,466    261,552    342,178    173,430 
Average shareholders’ equity (14) R$14,012    R$17,357    R$21,323    R$27,731    R$33,180    US$16,817 

(1)     
Amounts stated in U.S. dollars have been translated from Brazilian reais at an exchange rate of R$1.9730 per US$1.00, the Central Bank exchange rate on May 29, 2009. Such translations should not be construed as a representation that the Brazilian real amounts presented have been or could be converted into U.S. dollars at that rate.
(2)     
The amounts R$14, R$16 and R$231 regarding balances for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively, were reclassified from the line item “Fee and commission income” to the line item “Net interest income,” and the amounts R$228, R$397 and R$535 regarding the balances for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively, were reclassified from the line item “Other non-interest expense” to the line item “Net interest income.” These reclassifications were implemented to allow the comparability of the financial statements as of and for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 with the financial statements as of and for the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2008.
 
These reclassifications do not affect the amounts recorded as assets, liabilities, shareholders’ equity and net income.
(3)     
For more information on the results of equity investees, see “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” and note 9 to our consolidated financial statements in Item 18.
(4)     
Other non-interest income consists of trading income (losses), net realized gains on available-for-sale securities and other non-interest income.
(5)     
Operating expenses consist of salaries and benefits and administrative expenses.
(6)     
Other non-interest expense consists of amortization of intangible assets, depreciation and amortization and other non-interest expense.
(7)     
Data per share reflects, on a retroactive basis: (a) the split of our capital stock on December 9, 2004, in which we issued two new shares for each existing share; (b) the split of our capital stock on November 11, 2005, in which we issued one new share for each existing share; (c) the split of our capital stock on March 12, 2007, in which we issued one new share for each existing share; (d) the split of one share for each two existing shares, which was approved by our shareholders on March 24, 2008; and (e) the reverse split of fifty shares to one and the simultaneous split in the proportion of one to fifty, which was approved by our shareholders on March 10, 2009.

7


(8)     
For purposes of calculating earnings per share in accordance with the U.S. GAAP, preferred shares are treated in the same manner as common shares. Holders of preferred shares are entitled to receive dividends per share in an amount 10% greater than the dividends per share paid to common shareholders. For a description of our two classes of shares, see “Item 10. Additional Information—Memorandum and Articles of Incorporation.”
(9)     
None of our outstanding obligations are exchangeable for or convertible into equity securities. As a consequence, our diluted earnings per share do not differ from our earnings per share. Accordingly, our basic and diluted earnings per share are equal in all periods presented. See note 2(u) to our consolidated financial statements in Item 18.
(10)     
The amounts determined in U.S. dollars were converted into reais using the exchange rate on the date such dividend was paid.
(11)     
The amounts R$324, R$622 and R$789 regarding loan origination fees and costs and corresponding to the balances as of the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively, were reclassified from the line item “Other assets” to the line item “Loans,” and the amounts R$224, R$260 and R$540 regarding intangible assets related to exclusive rights for rendering banking services and corresponding to the balances as of the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively, were reclassified from the line item “Other assets” to the line item “Intangible assets, net.” These reclassifications were implemented to allow the comparability of the financial statements as of and for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 with the financial statements as of and for the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2008. These reclassifications do not affect the amounts recorded as assets, liabilities, shareholders’ equity and net income.
(12)     
Common shares outstanding, no par value: (i) 1,534,805,958 authorized and issued at December 31, 2008; (ii) 1,009,337,030 authorized and issued at December 31, 2007; (iii) 500,071,456 authorized and issued at December 31, 2006; (iv) 489,450,004 authorized and issued at December 31, 2005; and (v) 238,351,329 authorized and issued on December 31, 2004. Data from 2004 to 2008 reflects (a) the reverse split of our shares at a 10,000:1 share ratio, which was approved by our shareholders on March 10, 2004 (as a result, we had 158,587,942 authorized and issued shares outstanding, no par value, as of December 31, 2003). The new shares began trading on the São Paulo Stock Exchange on March 22, 2004; (b) the split of our capital stock on December 9, 2004, in which we issued two new shares for each existing share; (c) the split of our capital stock on November 11, 2005, in which we issued one new share for each existing share; (d) the split of our capital stock on March 12, 2007, in which we issued one new share for each existing share; and (e) the split of one share for each two existing shares, which was approved by our shareholders on March 24, 2008.
(13)     
Preferred shares outstanding, no par value: (i) 1,534,900,221 authorized and issued at December 31, 2008; (ii) 1,009,336,926 authorized and issued at December 31, 2007; (iii) 500,811,468 authorized and issued at December 31, 2006; (iv) 489,938,838 authorized and issued at December 31, 2005; and (v) 236,081,796 authorized and issued on December 31, 2004. Data from 2004 to 2008 reflects (a) the reverse split of our shares at a 10,000:1 share ratio, which was approved by our shareholders on March 10, 2004 (as a result, we had 158,587,942 authorized and issued shares outstanding, no par value, as of December 31, 2003). The new shares began trading on the São Paulo Stock Exchange on March 22, 2004; (b) the split of our capital stock on December 9, 2004, in which we issued two new shares for each existing share; (c) the split of our capital stock on November 11, 2005, in which we issued one new share for each existing share; (d) the split of our capital stock on March 12, 2007, in which we issued one new share for each existing share; and (e) the split of one share for each two existing shares, which was approved by our shareholders on March 24, 2008.
(14)     
See “Information on the Company—Selected Statistical Information.”

     Preferred shareholders are entitled to receive dividends per share in an amount 10% greater than the dividends per share paid to our common shareholders.

Exchange Rate Information

     From 2004 to 2007, the real appreciated against the U.S. dollar. During the first half of 2008, the real continued to appreciate against the U.S. dollar. In the second half of 2008, the real depreciated against the U.S. dollar, from R$1.5919 per U.S.$1.00 on June 30, 2008 to R$2.3130 per U.S.$1.00 on December 31, 2008. During the first five months of 2009, the real began to appreciate against the U.S. dollar, from R$2.3130 per U.S.$1.00 on December 31, 2008 to R$1.9730 on May 29, 2009. Under the current free convertibility exchange system, the real may undergo further depreciation or appreciation as compared with the U.S. dollar and other currencies.

     The following table sets forth the period-end, average, high and low noon buying rate reported by the Federal Reserve Bank expressed in reais per US$1.00 for the periods and dates indicated:

Noon Buying Rate for U.S. dollars
R$ per US$1.00
 
Period    Period-End    Average (1)   High    Low 
         
2004    R$2.6550    R$2.9131    R$3.2085    R$2.6510 
2005    2.3340    2.4352    2.7755    2.1695 
2006    2.1342    2.1774    2.3340    2.0900 
2007    1.7790    1.9452    2.1342    1.7386 
2008    2.3130    1.8267    2.3130    1.5660 
   December    2.3130    2.3954    2.6187    2.2905 
2009                 
   January    2.3130    2.3079    2.3698    2.1895 
   February    2.3750    2.3230    2.3898    2.2375 
   March    2.3007    2.3161    2.4420    2.2371 
   April    2.1724    2.2027    2.2860    2.1617 
   May    R$1.9678    R$2.0689    R$2.1730    R$1.9678 
_______________________
(1) Average of the month-end rates beginning with December of previous period through last month of period indicated. 
Source: Federal Reserve Bank of New York 

8




     On June 12, 2009, the noon buying rate reported by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York was R$1.9214 per US$1.00.

     The following table sets forth the period-end, average, high and low selling rate reported by the Central Bank at closing, expressed in reais per US$1.00 for the periods and dates indicated:

Closing Selling Rate for U.S. dollars
R$ per US$1.00
 
Period    Period-End    Average (1)   High    Low 
         
2004    R$2.6544    R$2.9150    R$3.2051    R$2.6544 
2005    2.3407    2.4341    2.7621    2.1633 
2006    2.1380    2.1812    2.3407    2.0892 
2007    1.7713    1.9460    2.1380    1.7440 
2008    2.3370    1.8824    2.4689    1.5666 
   December    2.3370    2.3944    2.5004    2.3370 
2009                 
   January    2.3162    2.3074    2.3803    2.1889 
   February    2.3784    2.3127    2.3916    2.2446 
   March    2.3152    2.3138    2.4218    2.2375 
   April    2.1783    2.2059    2.8999    2.1699 
   May    R$1.9730    R$2.0609    R$2.1476    R$1.9730 

(1) Average of the month-end rates beginning with December of previous period through last month of period indicated. 
Source: Central Bank 

Capitalization and Indebtedness

     Not applicable.

Risk Factors

Risks relating to Brazil

The Brazilian government has exercised, and continues to exercise, significant influence over the Brazilian economy. This influence, as well as Brazilian political and economic conditions, may have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and the market price of our preferred shares and ADSs.

     The Brazilian government has frequently intervened in the economy and occasionally made significant changes in policy and regulations. The Brazilian government’s actions to control inflation and implement other policies and regulations have often involved, among other measures, increases in interest rates, changes in tax policies, price and salary controls, currency devaluations, capital controls and limits on imports. Our business, financial condition, results of operations and the market price of our preferred shares and ADSs may be adversely affected by, among others, the following factors and Brazilian government’s response to these factors, among others:

9


     Uncertainty as to whether the Brazilian government will implement changes in policy or regulations affecting these or other factors in the future may contribute to economic uncertainty in Brazil and to heightened volatility of the Brazilian securities market and securities issued abroad by Brazilian companies. Changes in policies and regulations may adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and the market price of our preferred shares and ADSs.

Inflation and Brazilian government’s measures to curb inflation may have an adverse effect on the Brazilian economy, the Brazilian securities market, our business, financial condition, results of operations and the market price of our preferred shares and ADSs.

     Brazil has historically experienced extremely high rates of inflation. As measured by the Índice Geral de Preços – Disponibilidade Interna (General Price Index – Domestic Availability), or IGP-DI, a general price inflation index published by the Fundação Getúlio Vargas, or FGV, Brazil had annual rates of inflation of 12.1% in 2004, 1.4% in 2005, 3.8% in 2006, 7.9% in 2007 and 9.1% in 2008. Inflation, along with certain Brazilian government’s measures to combat inflation and public speculation about possible future Brazilian government’s measures, has had significant negative effects on the Brazilian economy, and has contributed to economic uncertainty in Brazil and heightened volatility in the Brazilian securities market.

     These measures have often included maintaining a tight monetary policy with high interest rates, thereby restricting the availability of credit and reducing economic growth. As a result, interest rates have fluctuated significantly. Increases in the Sistema Especial de Liquidação e Custódia rate (Special Clearing and Settlement System rate), which we call the “SELIC rate,” the base interest rate established by the Comitê de Política Monetária (Brazilian Committee for Monetary Policy), which we call “COPOM,” may have an adverse effect on us by reducing demand for our credit, and increasing our cost of funds, domestic debt expense and the risk of customer default. Decreases in the SELIC rate may also have an adverse effect on us by decreasing the interest income we earn on our interest-earning assets and lowering our revenues and margins.

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     Future Brazilian government actions, including interest rate decreases, intervention in the foreign exchange market and actions to adjust or fix the value of the real may trigger increases in inflation. If Brazil experiences fluctuations in rates of inflation in the future, our costs and net margins may be affected and, if investor confidence lags, the price of our securities may fall. Inflationary pressures may also affect our ability to access foreign financial markets and may lead to counter-inflationary policies that may have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and the market price of our preferred shares and ADSs.

Exchange variations may have an adverse effect on the Brazilian economy, the Brazilian securities market, our business, financial condition, results of operations and the market price of our preferred shares and ADSs.

     In the past, the Brazilian government has implemented various economic plans and exchange rate policies, including sudden depreciations, periodic mini-depreciations (during which the frequency of adjustments has ranged from daily to monthly), floating exchange rate systems, exchange controls and dual foreign exchange markets. From time to time, there have been significant fluctuations in the exchange rate between the real and the U.S. dollar and other currencies. For example, on June 30, 2008, the foreign exchange rate between the real and the U.S. dollar was R$1.5919 per US$1.00, an appreciation by approximately 11.3% as compared with December 31, 2007. In the second half of 2008, the real depreciated against the U.S. dollar and was R$2.3370 per U.S.$1.00 on December 31, 2008. As a result of Central Bank’s response to the global financial crisis, the real began to appreciate against the U.S. dollar during the first five months of 2009, and on May 29, 2009 the foreign exchange rate between the real and the U.S. dollar was R$1.9730 per US$1.00.

     A significant amount of our financial assets and liabilities are denominated in, or indexed to, foreign currencies, especially the U.S. dollar. When the real depreciates, we may incur losses on our liabilities denominated in, or indexed to, foreign currencies, such as our U.S. dollar-denominated long-term debt and foreign currency loans, as well as our customers’ demand for credit denominated in, or indexed to, foreign currency may decrease. Conversely, when the value of the real appreciates against foreign currencies, we may incur losses on our monetary assets denominated in, or indexed to, foreign currencies. Any of these developments may adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and the market price of our preferred shares and ADSs.

Developments and the perception of risk in other countries, especially in the United States and in emerging market countries, may have an adverse effect on the market price of Brazilian securities, including our preferred shares and ADSs, and limit our ability to finance our operations.

     The market price of securities of Brazilian companies is influenced to varying degrees by economic and market conditions in other countries, including the United States and other Latin American and emerging market countries. Although economic conditions in these countries may differ significantly from economic conditions in Brazil, investors’ reactions to developments in these other countries may have an adverse effect on the market price of securities of Brazilian issuers. Crises in, or economic policies of, other countries may diminish investor interest in securities of Brazilian issuers, including ours, and may limit our ability to finance our operations.

     The recent global financial crisis has had significant consequences worldwide, including in Brazil, such as capital markets volatility, unavailability of credit, higher interest rates, a general slowdown of the world economy, volatile exchange rates and inflationary pressure, among others, which have, and may continue to have, directly or indirectly, an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operation, the market price of securities issued by Brazilian companies, including our preferred shares and ADSs, and our ability to finance our operations.

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Risks relating to us and the Brazilian Banking and Insurance Industries

Changes in existing laws and regulations or the imposition of new laws and regulations may have an adverse effect on us.

     We are subject to extensive and continuous regulatory review by the Brazilian government. We have no control over government regulations, which govern certain aspects of our operations, including the following:

     The regulatory structure governing Brazilian financial institutions and insurance companies is continuously evolving. Amendment of existing laws and regulations, change in the manner laws and regulations are currently enforced or interpreted or adoption of new laws or regulations may have an adverse effect on our business and results of operations.

The Brazilian banking and insurance markets are highly competitive.

     The banking and insurance markets in Brazil are highly competitive. We face significant competition, in the banking market, from other large Brazilian and international banks, both public and private, and, in the insurance market, from subsidiaries of financial institutions and companies affiliated with foreign insurance conglomerates.

     The Brazilian banking market experienced a consolidation period in the 1990s, when a number of Brazilian banks were liquidated and several important state-owned and private banks were sold. Competition increased during this period as foreign banks, some with greater resources than we do, entered the Brazilian market through the acquisition of Brazilian financial institutions. The privatization of state-owned banks has also made the Brazilian markets for banking and other financial services more competitive.

     The opening of the Brazilian insurance market in June 1996 to foreign investment and a greater market consolidation in the last few years have increased competition. Multinational insurance conglomerates formed joint ventures with Brazilian insurance companies to enter the Brazilian insurance market. A significant portion of these insurance conglomerates has access to the international reinsurance market, which generally offers lower reinsurance rates than those available in the Brazilian reinsurance market. In addition, competition has intensified over the last years partly as a result of smaller insurance companies being merged into or acquired by competitors affiliated with Brazilian or multinational financial conglomerates with insurance or private pension business.

     The increased competition, including by the acquisition of a bank or insurance company by our competitors, may have an adverse effect on us by, among other things, limiting our ability to increase our customers’ base and to expand our operations, reducing our profit margins on banking, insurance and other services and products we offer, and increasing competition for investment opportunities.

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Changes in reserve and compulsory deposit requirements may have an adverse effect on us.

     The Central Bank has periodically changed the level of reserves and compulsory deposits that financial institutions in Brazil are required to maintain with the Central Bank. For example, in December 2008, the Central Bank revoked and changed a number of compulsory deposit requirements in an attempt to reduce the impact of the global financial crisis. The Central Bank may increase the reserves and compulsory deposits requirements in the future or impose new reserve or compulsory deposit requirements. The compulsory deposits generally do not yield the same return as other investments and deposits because:

     Our compulsory deposits for demand deposits, savings deposits and time deposits were R$26.4 billion as of December 31, 2008. Any increase in the compulsory deposits requirements may reduce our ability to lend funds and make other investments and, as a result, may adversely affect us. For more detailed information on compulsory deposits, see “Item 4. History and Development of the Company—Banking Activity—Deposit-taking Activities.”

The interests of our controlling shareholders may conflict with your interests.

     At December 31, 2008, Cidade de Deus - Companhia Comercial de Participações, which we call “Cidade de Deus Participações,” directly held 49% of our common shares, and Fundação Bradesco directly and indirectly held 50.34% of our common shares. As a result, these are controlling shareholders, who have power to elect our directors and officers and to determine the outcome of any action requiring shareholders’ approval, such as transactions with related parties, corporate reorganizations and timing and payment of dividends. In addition, under the Fundação Bradesco’s bylaws, all of our directors, officers and departmental directors (who have been working at Grupo Bradesco for more than ten years), as well as all directors and officers of Cidade de Deus Participações, serve as members of the board of trustees of Fundação Bradesco. The board of trustees has no other members. For more information on our shareholders, see “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—Major Shareholders.”

We may experience increases in our level of past due loans as our loan portfolio matures.

     Our loan portfolio has grown substantially since 2004. Any corresponding rise in our level of past due loans may lag behind the rate of loan growth, as loans typically do not become due within a short period of time after their origination. From 2004 to 2008, our loan portfolio increased 175% and our level of past due loans increased by 225%. Rapid loan growth may also reduce our ratio of past due loans to total loans until growth slows or the portfolio becomes more seasoned. This may result in increases in our loan loss provisions, charge-offs and the ratio of past due loans to total loans, which may have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, if actual losses materially exceed our loan loss provisions, we could be adversely affected.

Losses on our investments in marketable securities may have an adverse effect on our results of operations.

     Marketable securities represent a material portion of our assets, and realized investment gains and losses have had, and will continue to have, a significant impact on our results of operations. These gains and losses, which we record in our income statement when investments in securities are classified as trading, may fluctuate considerably from period to period. The level of fluctuation depends, in part, upon the market value of the securities, which in turn may vary considerably, and upon our investment policies. With securities classified as available for sale, unrealized gains and losses derived from mark-to-market are recorded as comprehensive income in shareholders’ equity until realization or other than temporary impairment has been identified, at which time the net gains (losses) are included in the income statement. We cannot predict the amount of realized gain or loss for any future period, and variations from period to period have no practical analytical value. Gains on our investment portfolio may not continue to contribute to net income at levels consistent with recent periods or at all, and we may not successfully realize the appreciation now existing in our consolidated investment portfolio or any portion thereof.

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If a ceiling on bank loan interest rates is enforced, it may have an adverse effect on our interest income and our ability to extend credit.

     As promulgated in 1988, the Brazilian Constitution established a 12% per year ceiling on loan interest rates, including bank loan interest rates. This ceiling was not enforced, however, because the Brazilian Congress did not adopt the necessary implementing legislation. In May 2003, the relevant article was revoked pursuant to a constitutional amendment. Any significant changes in the restrictions on interest rates could have a substantial effect on our financial situation, results of operations and prospects.

Our losses in connection with insurance claims may vary from time to time and differences between the losses from actual claims and underwriting and reserving assumptions may have an adverse effect on us.

     Our results of operations significantly depend upon the extent to which our actual claims are consistent with the assumptions we used to assess our potential future policy and claim liabilities and to price our insurance products. We seek to limit our responsibility and price our insurance products based on the expected payout of benefits, calculated using several factors, such as: assumptions for investment returns, mortality and morbidity, expenses, persistency, and certain macroeconomic factors, such as inflation and interest rates. These assumptions may deviate from our prior experience, including due to factors beyond our control such as natural disasters (floods, explosions and fires) and man-made disasters (riots, gang or terrorist attacks) or changes in mortality and morbidity rates as a result of advances in medical technology and longevity, among others. Therefore, we cannot determine precisely the amounts that we will ultimately pay to settle these liabilities, when these payments will need to be made, or whether the assets supporting our policy liabilities, together with future premiums, will be sufficient for payment of these liabilities. These amounts may vary from the estimated amounts, particularly when those payments do not occur until well in the future, which is the case with certain of our life insurance products. To the extent that actual claims experience is less favorable than the underlying assumptions used in establishing such liabilities, we may be required to increase our provisions, which may have an adverse effect on us.

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If our actual losses exceed our provisions on risks that we underwrite, we could be adversely affected.

     Our results of operations and financial condition depend upon our ability to accurately assess the actual losses associated with the risks that we underwrite. Our current provisions are based on estimates that rely on then-available information and that involve a number of features including recent loss experience, current economic conditions, internal risk rating, actuarial and statistical projections of our expectations of the cost of the ultimate settlement of claims, such as estimates of future trends in claims severity and frequency, judicial theories of liability, the levels of and/or timing of receipt or payment of premiums and rates of retirement, mortality, morbidity and persistency, among others. Accordingly, the establishment of provisions is inherently uncertain and our actual losses usually deviate, sometimes substantially, from such estimates. Deviations occur for a variety of reasons. Reasons for such deviation include that, since we record our loan loss provisions based on estimates of incurred losses, the allowance for loan losses might not be sufficient to cover losses; we might have an increased number of claims; or our costs could be higher than the costs we estimated. If actual losses materially exceed our provisions, we could be adversely affected.

The poor performance of our investment portfolio may adversely affect us.

     Our results of operations depend largely on the returns on their investment portfolios to obtain a significant portion of their revenues and profits, which are subject to market risks and fluctuations. For example, investments in equity securities are subject to high levels of volatility, which may affect our ability to obtain proper investment returns, including possible losses on principal. We invest a significant portion of our assets in fixed income securities primarily issued by the Brazilian government, the yield of which varies in accordance with fluctuations in market interest rates. Interest rates are significantly affected by several factors, including governmental monetary policies, the political and economic environment both in Brazil and abroad and other factors beyond our control.

     The occurrence of large and/or unexpected claims may force us to liquidate securities at an unfavorable time, which may result in capital losses. If we do not structure our investment portfolio so that it is appropriately matched with our insurance liabilities, we may be forced to liquidate investments prior to maturity at a significant loss in order to cover such liabilities. Large investment losses could significantly decrease our asset base and adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations, which in turn could impair our ability to underwrite new insurance policies. We cannot ensure that we will not experience a significant decline in investment yields, which may have an adverse effect on us.

We are jointly liable for claims of our clients if our reinsurers fail to meet their obligations under the reinsurance contracts.

     The purchase of reinsurance does not hold us harmless against our liability towards our clients if the reinsurer fails to meet its obligations under the reinsurance contracts. As a result, reinsurers’ insolvency or failure to make timely payments under these contracts could have an adverse effect on us, given that we remain responsible before our insured.

Our strategy of marketing and expanding Internet banking in Brazil could be badly received or more expensive than lucrative.

     We have aggressively pursued the use of the Internet for banking and other services to our clients and expect to continue to do so. However, the market for our Internet products is rapidly evolving and is becoming increasingly competitive. We cannot predict whether, or how fast, this market will grow. Moreover, if we fail to adapt effectively to growth and change in the Internet market and technology, our business, competitiveness, or results of operations could be materially affected.

     The Internet may prove not to be a viable Brazilian commercial marketplace for a number of reasons, including a lack of acceptable security technologies, potentially inadequate development of the necessary infrastructure, or the lack of necessary development and commercialization of performance improvements.

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     To the extent that higher bandwidth Internet access becomes more widely available, we may be required to make significant changes to the design and content of our online network in order to compete effectively. Failure to effectively adapt to these or any other technological developments could adversely affect our business.

Our trading activities and derivatives transactions may produce material losses.

     We engage in the trading of securities, buying debt and equity securities principally to sell them in the near term with the objective of generating profits on short-term differences in price. These investments could expose us to the possibility of material financial losses in the future, as securities are subject to fluctuations in value, which may generate losses. In addition, we enter into derivatives transactions to manage our exposure to interest rate and exchange rate risk. Each such derivatives transaction protects against increases in exchange rates or interest rates or against decreases in such rates, but not both. If we have entered into derivatives transactions to protect against, for example, decreases in the value of the real or in interest rates and the real instead increases in value or interest rates increase, we may incur financial losses. Such losses could adversely materially affect our future liquidity, our net income and therefore the value of the preferred shares and ADSs. For further information about our market risk, see “Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk.” In the past three years the ratio of our trading securities to our total assets, as measured at December 31 of each year, has been as high as 24.2% and could be greater in the future.

Risks Relating to the Preferred Shares and ADSs

The preferred shares and ADSs generally do not give their holders voting rights.

     Under Brazilian corporate law (Brazilian Law No. 6,404/76, as amended by Law No. 9,457/97 and Brazilian Law No. 10,303/01, which we refer to collectively as “Brazilian Corporate Law”) and our bylaws, 15 holders of our preferred shares, and therefore of our ADSs, are not entitled to vote at our shareholders’ meetings, except in limited circumstances. This means, among other things, that you, as a holder of ADSs, are not entitled to vote on corporate transactions, including any proposed merger or consolidation with other companies.

     In addition, in the limited circumstances where the preferred shareholders are able to vote, holders may exercise voting rights with respect to the preferred shares represented by ADSs only in accordance with the provisions of the deposit agreement relating to the ADSs. There are no provisions under Brazilian law or under our bylaws that limit ADS holders’ ability to exercise their voting rights through the depositary bank with respect to the underlying preferred shares. However, there are practical limitations upon the ability of ADS holders to exercise their voting rights due to the additional procedural steps involved in communicating with such holders. For example, our preferred shareholders will either receive notice directly from us or through publication of notice in Brazilian newspapers and will be able to exercise their voting rights by either attending the meeting in person or voting by proxy. ADS holders, by comparison, will not receive notice directly from us. Rather, in accordance with the deposit agreement, we will provide the notice to the depositary bank, which will in turn, as soon as practicable thereafter, mail to holders of ADSs the notice of such meeting and a statement as to the manner in which instructions may be given by holders. To exercise their voting rights, ADS holders must then instruct the depositary bank how to vote the shares represented by their ADSs. Because of this extra procedural step involving the depositary bank, the process for exercising voting rights will take longer for ADS holders than for holders of preferred shares. ADSs for which the depositary bank does not receive timely voting instructions will not be voted at any meeting.

     Except in limited circumstances, ADS holders are not able to exercise voting rights attaching to the ADSs.

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The relative volatility and illiquidity of the Brazilian securities markets may substantially limit your ability to sell the preferred shares underlying the ADSs at the price and time you desire.

     Investing in securities that trade in emerging markets, such as Brazil, often involves greater risk than investing in securities of issuers in other countries, and these investments are generally considered to be more speculative in nature. The Brazilian securities market is substantially smaller, less liquid and can be more volatile than the major securities markets, such as the United States. Although you are entitled to withdraw the preferred shares underlying the ADSs from the depositary at any time, your ability to sell the preferred shares underlying the ADSs at a price and time at which you wish to do so may be substantially limited. There is also significantly greater concentration in the Brazilian securities market than in major securities markets such as the United States or in other countries. The ten largest companies in terms of market capitalization represented 55.4% of the aggregate market capitalization of the BOVESPA as of March 31, 2009.

The preferred shares and ADSs do not entitle you to a fixed or minimum dividend.

     Holders of our preferred shares and ADSs are not entitled to a fixed or minimum dividend. Pursuant to our bylaws, our preferred shares are entitled to dividends 10% higher than those assigned to our common shares. Although under our current bylaws we are generally obligated to pay our shareholders at least 30% of our annual net adjusted income, our shareholders, acting at our annual shareholders’ meeting, have the discretion to suspend this mandatory distribution of dividends if the Board of Directors advises them that the payment of the dividend is not compatible with our financial condition. Neither our bylaws nor Brazilian law specifies the circumstances in which a distribution would not be compatible with our financial condition, and our controlling shareholders have never suspended the mandatory distribution of dividends. However, general Brazilian practice is that a company need not pay dividends if such payment would threaten the existence of the company as a going concern or would harm its normal course of operations.

As a holder of ADSs you will have fewer and less well-defined shareholders’ rights than in the United States and certain other jurisdictions.

     Our corporate affairs are governed by our bylaws and Brazilian Corporate Law, which may differ from the legal principles that would apply if we were incorporated in a jurisdiction in the United States or in certain other jurisdictions outside Brazil. Under Brazilian Corporate Law, you and the holders of the preferred shares may have fewer and less well-defined rights to protect your interests relative to actions taken by our Board of Directors or the holders of our common shares than under the laws of other jurisdictions outside Brazil.

     Although Brazilian Corporate Law imposes restrictions on insider trading and price manipulation, the Brazilian securities markets are not as highly regulated and supervised as the U.S. securities markets or markets in certain other jurisdictions. In addition, self-dealing and the preservation of shareholder interests may not be as regulated, and regulations may not be as enforced, in Brazil as in the United States, which could potentially disadvantage you as a holder of the preferred shares underlying ADSs. For example, when compared to Delaware general corporation law, Brazilian Corporate Law and practice have less detailed and well-established rules and judicial precedents relating to the review of management decisions against duty of care and duty of loyalty standards in the context of corporate restructurings, transactions with related parties, and sale-of-business transactions. In addition, shareholders in Delaware companies must hold 5% of the outstanding share capital of a corporation to have standing to bring shareholders’ derivative suits, and shareholders in Brazilian companies ordinarily do not have standing to bring a class action.

It may be difficult to enforce civil liabilities against us or our directors and officers.

     We are organized under the laws of Brazil, and all of our directors and officers reside outside the United States. In addition, a substantial portion of our assets, and most or all of the assets of our directors and officers are located in Brazil. As a result, it may be difficult for investors to effect service of process within the United States or other jurisdictions outside of Brazil on such persons or to enforce judgments against them, including in any action based on civil liabilities under the U.S. federal securities laws.

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If we issue new shares or our shareholders sell shares in the future, the market price of your ADSs may be reduced.

     Sales of a substantial number of shares, or the belief that this may occur, could decrease the market price of the preferred shares and ADSs by diluting the shares’ value. If we issue new shares or our existing shareholders sell shares they hold, the market price of the preferred shares and, by extension, of the ADSs, may decrease significantly.

You may be unable to exercise preemptive rights relating to the preferred shares.

     You will not be able to exercise the preemptive rights relating to the preferred shares underlying your ADSs unless a registration statement under the Securities Act is effective with respect to those rights or an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act is available. Similarly, we may from time to time distribute rights to our shareholders. The depositary bank will not offer rights to you as a holder of the ADSs unless the rights are either registered under the Securities Act or are subject to an exemption from the registration requirements. We are not obligated to file a registration statement with respect to the shares or other securities relating to these rights, and we cannot assure you that we will file any such registration statement. Accordingly, you may receive only the net proceeds from the sale by the depositary bank of the rights received in respect of the shares represented by your ADSs or, if the preemptive rights cannot be sold, they will be allowed to lapse. You may also be unable to participate in rights offerings by us and your holdings may be diluted as a result.

If you exchange your ADSs for preferred shares, you risk losing the ability to remit foreign currency abroad and Brazilian tax advantages.

     Brazilian law requires that parties obtain registration with the Central Bank in order to be allowed to remit foreign currencies, including U.S. dollars, abroad. The Brazilian custodian for the preferred shares will obtain the necessary registration with the Central Bank for the payment of dividends or other cash distributions relating to the preferred shares or upon the disposition of the preferred shares. If you exchange your ADSs for the underlying preferred shares, however, you may only rely on the custodian’s certificate for five business days from the date of exchange. Thereafter, you must obtain your own registration in accordance with Central Bank and the Comissão de Valores Mobiliários (the Brazilian Securities Commission), which we call “CVM,” rules, in order to obtain and remit U.S. dollars abroad upon the disposition of the preferred shares or distributions relating to the preferred shares. If you do not obtain a certificate of registration, you may not be able to remit U.S. dollars or other currencies abroad and may be subject to less favorable tax treatment on gains with respect to the preferred shares. For more information, see “Item 10. Additional Information ¯ Exchange Controls.”

     If you attempt to obtain your own registration, you may incur expenses or suffer delays in the application process, which could delay your ability to receive dividends or distributions relating to the preferred shares or the return of your capital in a timely manner. The custodian’s registration and any certificate of foreign capital registration you obtain may be affected by future legislative changes. Additional restrictions applicable to you, the disposition of the underlying preferred shares or the repatriation of the proceeds from disposition may be imposed in the future.

Item 4. Information on the Company.

History and Development of the Company

     We are one of the largest private-sector banks (non-government-controlled) in Brazil in terms of total assets. We offer a wide range of banking and financial products and services in Brazil and abroad to individuals, small to mid-sized companies and major local and international corporations and institutions. We have the most extensive private-sector branch and service network in Brazil, which permits us to reach a diverse client base. Our services and products encompass banking operations such as lending and deposit-taking, credit card issuance, consortiums, insurance, leasing, payment collection and processing, pension plans, asset management and brokerage services.

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     According to information published by the Superintendência de Seguros Privados (the Superintendency of Private Insurance, known as “SUSEP”) and by the Agência Nacional de Saúde Suplementar (the National Agency of Supplemental Health, known as “ANS”), we are the largest insurance, pension plan and títulos de capitalização group in Brazil on a consolidated basis in terms of insurance premiums, pension plan contributions and income from certificated savings plans. According to the annual publication of Fundacion Mapfre in Spain, Grupo Bradesco de Seguros e Previdência was the greatest insurance and pension plan group in Latin America in 2007. Títulos de capitalização, which we call “certificated savings plans,” is a type of savings account that is coupled with periodic drawings for prizes.  

      In 2008, some of our subsidiaries ranked among the largest companies in Brazil in their respective markets, according to the sources cited in parentheses below, including:

Bradesco Seguros S.A., our insurance subsidiary, which we call “Bradesco Seguros,” together with its subsidiaries, in terms of insurance premiums, shareholders’ equity and technical reserves (SUSEP and ANS);
 
  - Bradesco Vida e Previdência S.A., Bradesco Seguros’ subsidiary, which we call “Bradesco Vida e Previdência,” is the largest company in the market in terms of private pension plan contributions, life and personal accident insurance premiums, investment portfolios and technical provisions (SUSEP);
     
  - Bradesco Capitalização S.A., Bradesco Seguros’ subsidiary, which we call “Bradesco Capitalização,” offers certificated savings plans. Bradesco Capitalização is the leading private company in the market in terms of revenue from the sale of certificated savings plans (SUSEP);
 
  - Bradesco Auto/RE Companhia de Seguros S.A., Bradesco Seguros’ subsidiary, which we call “Bradesco Auto/RE,” offers automobile insurance, basic lines and liability products;
 
  - Bradesco Saúde S.A., Bradesco Seguros’ subsidiary, which we call “Bradesco Saúde,” offers health insurance coverage, including medical and hospital expenses. Bradesco Saúde has one of the largest networks of healthcare service providers and is the leader in the health insurance market (ANS); and
 
  - Bradesco Dental S.A., Bradesco Seguros’ subsidiary, which we call “Bradesco Dental,” offers dental insurance. It is one of the leading insurance companies operating in the dental insurance segment in terms of dental insurance policies (Agência Nacional de Saúde Suplementar, a Brazilian regulator of private insurers known as ANS), and is backed by the largest insurance conglomerate in Latin America (Fundación Mapfre, 2007) with over 15 years of experience in the area;
 
Bradesco Leasing S.A. Arrendamento Mercantil, which we call “Bradesco Leasing,” in terms of the present value of leasing accounts (Associação Brasileira das Empresas de Leasing (Brazilian Association of Leasing Companies), known as “ABEL”);
 
Bradesco Administradora de Consórcios Ltda., which we call “Bradesco Consórcios,” in terms of the total number of outstanding consortium shares (Central Bank); and
 
Banco Finasa BMC S.A., which we call “Banco Finasa BMC,” in terms of automobile financing loans (Central Bank).

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     We are also one of the leaders among private-sector financial institutions in third-party resource management and in underwriting debt securities, according to information published by Associação Nacional de Bancos de Investimento (the National Association of Investment Banks, known as “ANBID”).

     For information on other private-sector and public-sector (government-controlled) financial institutions in Brazil, see “—Regulation and Supervision—Principal Financial Institutions.”

     As of December 31, 2008, we had, on a consolidated basis:

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      Although our client base includes individuals of all income levels as well as large, midsized and small businesses, the lower to middle income citizens of Brazil have traditionally formed the backbone of our clientele. Since the 1960s, we have been a leader in this retail banking market in Brazil. This segment still has great potential for development and provides us with higher margins than other segments, such as corporate credit operations and securities trading, where we face greater price competition.

     Our large banking network allows us to be closer to our customers, which, in turn, permits our managers to have personal and direct knowledge about our customers, economically active regions and other conditions relevant to our business. This knowledge helps us in assessing and limiting credit risks in credit operations, among other risks, as well as in servicing the particular needs of our clients. Approximately 14.1 million transactions are executed through our Bradesco network every day.

4B. Business Overview

     We organize our operations into two main areas: (i) banking services; and (ii) insurance services, pension plans and certificated savings plans. See note 26 to our consolidated financial statements in Item 18 for additional segment information. The following diagram provides summary information for our two business areas at and for the year ended December 31, 2008, by segment.


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As of December 31, 2008, according to the sources cited in parentheses below, we were:

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     The following table summarizes our gross revenues by business area for the periods indicated.

     The sum of the segments shown in the table below may not correspond to the amounts shown on a consolidated basis, as they do not take into account immaterial activities or inter-segment transactions.

     For the Years Ended December 31, 
   
    2006   2007    2008 
       
    (R$ in millions)
Banking:             
   Loan operations:             
         Housing loans    R$217    R$323    R$528 
         Agriculture-related loans    690    862    1,014 
         Leasing    653    908    2,393 
         Other loans(1)   19,417    20,515    29,727 
       
         Total    20,977    22,608    33,662 
       
 
     Fees and commissions:             
         Asset management fees    617    743    758 
         Collection fees    751    859    959 
         Credit card fees    929    1,273    1,696 
         Fees charged on checking account services    1,879    2,108    1,794 
         Fees for receipt of taxes    237    237    219 
         Financial guarantees    290    321    387 
         Interbank fees    143    197    330 
         Consortium administration    202    256    318 
         Other services    702    1,000    1,422 
       
         Total    5,750    6,994    7,883 
       
 
Insurance and pension plans:(2)            
   Insurance premiums:             
         Health    3,918    4,246    5,259 
         Life and accident    1,779    1,822    2,799 
         Automobile, property and liability    2,424    2,775    2,905 
       
         Total    8,121    8,843    10,963 
       
 
      Pension plan income    R$791    R$555    R$710 
       

________________________
(1)      Includes industrial loans, financing under credit cards, overdraft loans, trade financing and foreign loans.
(2)      This does not include private pension investment contracts. See “—Insurance, Pension Plans and Certificated Savings Plans.”

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     We do not break down our revenues by geographic market within Brazil, and less than 10.0% of our revenues come from international operations. For more information on our international operations, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—4B. Business Overview—Banking Activity—International Banking.” For a discussion of our principal capital expenditures from 2006 through 2008, see “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects – Capital Expenditures.”

     The following is a simplified chart of our principal material subsidiaries in the financial and insurance services businesses and our voting and ownership interest in each of them as of December 31, 2008 all of which are consolidated in our financial statements in Item 18. With the exception of Banco Bradesco Argentina, which is incorporated in Argentina, all of these material subsidiaries are incorporated in Brazil. For more information regarding the consolidation of our material subsidiaries, see note 1(a) to our consolidated financial statements in Item 18.

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History

     We were founded in 1943 as a commercial bank under the name “Banco Brasileiro de Descontos S.A.” In 1948 we began a period of aggressive expansion, which led to our becoming the largest private-sector commercial bank in Brazil by the end of the 1960s. We expanded our activities nationwide during the 1970s, entering into urban and rural Brazilian markets. In 1988 we merged with our real estate finance, investment bank and consumer credit subsidiaries to become a multiple service bank and changed our name to Banco Bradesco S.A.

Recent Events

     Our subsidiary, Columbus Holdings, S.A., along with BB Banco de Investimento S.A., Banco Santander (Brasil) S.A., Santander Investimentos em Participacões S.A., Visa International Service Association and certain other shareholders are offering a total of 477,674,330 common shares (representing 35% of the capital stock) of Companhia Brasileira de Meios de Pagamento, or “VisaNet” to: (i) the public in Brazil pursuant to an offering registered in Brazil; (ii) qualified institutional buyers in the United States, as defined in Rule 144A, pursuant to exemptions from registration under the Securities Act and the rules thereunder; and (iii) non-U.S. institutional investors and other investors outside the United States and Brazil in accordance with Regulation S under the Securities Act. Banco Bradesco BBI S.A. is one of the underwriters, global coordinators and bookrunners of the transaction. Bradesco Securties Inc. will act as agent on behalf of Banco Bradesco BBI S.A. for securities placed outside Brazil.

     In addition, Banco Bradesco BBI S.A. has an option, exercisable by joint decision of the underwriters, to place up to an additional 71,651,149 common shares of VisaNet to cover over-allotments. The selling shareholders have the right, in a joint decision with the underwriters, to sell an aggregate of additional common shares representing up to 20% of VisaNet’s common shares initially offered.

     The offer was priced on June 25, 2009. It is expected that VisaNet’s common shares will be delivered on or about the third business day after the date of the final offering memorandum.

Recent Acquisitions

     In April 2009, we acquired through Bradesco Seguros 20% of the voting capital and total capital stock of Integritas, a holding company of Grupo Fleury, for R$342 million. Grupo Fleury, which has operated for the past 83 years, is one of Brazil’s most renown and respected medical and health organizations. It provides diagnosis, clinical treatment and medical analyses services, and is a benchmark in complex medical tests for nearly 1,500 clinical laboratories and hospitals.

     In July 2009, we entered into an agreement to acquire Banco ibi, ibi Corretora de Seguros Ltda., ibi Promotora de Vendas Ltda. and ibi Participações Ltda., for a total of R$1.4 billion, to be paid to the former controlling shareholders in shares representing approximately 1.6% of our capital stock. Banco ibi is among the main credit card issuers in Brazil, both in the private label segment as well as of branded cards, and its acquisition will substantially strengthen our position in both markets. On December 31, 2008, ibi companies posted shareholders’ equity of R$928 million, total assets of R$5.6 billion and 303 points of sale in C&A and Ibi stores. The transaction is still subject to approval by the Central Bank. Once approved, we will enter into a partnership agreement with C&A Modas Ltda., a leader in the fashion and clothing markets, under which Bradesco will offer its products and financial services at C&A stores, for 20 years.

     In March 2008, Banco Bradesco BBI S.A., which we call BBI, entered into an agreement with the shareholders of Ágora CTVM S.A., which we call “Ágora Corretora Holdings,” to acquire 100% of the total capital stock of Ágora Corretora for R$908 million. With the closing of the transaction, which occurred in September 2008 upon receipt of Central Bank approval, the Ágora Corretora shareholders received as compensation shares representing 7.8% of the capital stock of BBI. Ágora Corretora became BBI’s wholly owned subsidiary. In November and December 2008, we repurchased 6.5% of BBI shares held by Ágora’s former shareholders.

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     In January 2008, we entered into an agreement with Marsh Corretora de Seguros Ltda. to acquire 100% of the total capital stock of Mediservice—Administradora de Planos de Saúde Ltda., which we call “Mediservice,” for R$84.9 million. Mediservice has been operating for 20 years in Brazil. It has offices located in the cities of São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Salvador, and serves approximately 300,000 patients. It has a network of nearly 30,000 accredited physicians, as well as dentists, laboratories, diagnosis centers, clinics, hospitals and emergency services. This acquisition expands the client portfolio of Grupo Bradesco Seguros e Previdência and reinforces its positioning in the market of health group plan operators. ANS approved the transaction in February 2008.

Acquisitions from 2006 to 2007

     In January 2007, we entered into an agreement with the shareholders of Banco BMC S.A., which we call “BMC,” to acquire 100% of the total capital stock of BMC, and, accordingly, its controlled companies BMC Asset Management Ltda. – Distribuidora de Títulos e Valores Mobiliários, BMC Previdência Privada S.A. and Credicerto Promotora de Vendas Ltda. BMC is one of the largest private banks in the paycheck deductible loan market for beneficiaries and pensioners of INSS, with a network of approximately 7,000 agents and 749 banking correspondents. In accordance with the terms of this agreement, in August 2007 we delivered 9,299,618 of our common shares and 9,299,514 of our preferred shares to BMC shareholders for their BMC shares, which amounted to R$790 million. This transaction was closed in August 2007, upon receipt of Central Bank approval over the transaction.

     In May 2006, we entered into an agreement with Bradespar S.A., which we call “Bradespar,” to acquire 100% of the total capital stock of Bradesplan Participações S.A., which we call “Bradesplan,” for R$308.0 million. Bradesplan is a holding company that holds equity interests of non-financial companies of the Bradesco Group.

     In March 2006, we entered into an agreement with the controlling shareholders of American Express Company to acquire 100% of the total capital stock of its Brazilian subsidiaries that operate credit card and related businesses, such as insurance brokerage, business travel, retail foreign exchange services and direct consumer financing operations. According to this agreement, we have the exclusive right to issue credit and debit cards for individuals and corporate clients of American Express Centurion in Brazil during a ten-year period. This transaction closed in June 2006 upon payment in cash of US$468 million, equivalent to R$1.0 billion, and receipt of Central Bank approval.

     In March 2006, we entered into an agreement with Lojas Colombo to acquire 50% of the total capital stock of Josema Administração e Participações S.A., parent company of Credifar S.A., Crédito, Financiamento e Investimento, which we call “Credifar.” Credifar distributes financial products and services to the clients of Lojas Colombo, the third largest retail chain of electrical and electronic appliances and furniture in Brazil, with 365 stores in the States of Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina, Paraná, São Paulo and Minas Gerais. Lojas Colombo has being acting as a banking correspondent of ours since August 2004, with more than 2 million active clients. This transaction closed in May 2007 upon receipt of Central Bank approval.

Banco Postal

     We offer our products and services throughout Brazil, together with Empresa Brasileira de Correios e Telégrafos (the government owned postal company), which we call “Postal Service,” through correspondent offices operating under the trademark “Banco Postal,” which we call “Postal Bank.”

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     Through our service contract dated September 2001 with the Postal Service, we have exclusive rights to offer services at a number of locations, some of which we own and others which we rent from the Postal Service and which we refer to as “correspondent offices”.

     Delivery of services started in March 2002, when we opened the first Postal Bank branch in the State of Minas Gerais. As of December 31, 2008 we had 5,946 open correspondent offices in over 5,000 Brazilian municipalities, which processed on average more than 33 million monthly transactions or 1.5 million daily transactions.

     More than 1,700 out of 5,946 correspondent offices were set up in new markets, bringing services, either directly or indirectly, to millions of people for whom financial services were previously either inaccessible or difficult to obtain.

     The Postal Bank offers basic services, mainly addressed to the low-income segments of the financial population, and include:

Bradesco Expresso

     In addition to Postal Bank services performed at correspondent offices, we have also opened outlets under the trademark “Bradesco Expresso” located on the premises of selected corporate clients, including retail networks, supermarkets, drug stores and bakeries, to provide our clients with greater access to banking correspondent services. Bradesco Expresso processes bills and bank collection invoices for our clients at their offices, as well as offering withdrawals from checking and savings accounts and pension payments.

     On December 31, 2008, the Bradesco Expresso network totaled 16,061 outlets averaging more than 22 million monthly transactions or 1.0 million daily transactions.

     Store owners benefit directly from Bradesco Expresso through remuneration received in connection with the Bradesco Expresso units placed in their stores, and also benefit indirectly from the increased flow of people, which may increase both sales and client loyalty.

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Other Strategic Alliances

     In March 2006, we entered into a joint venture agreement with Fidelity National and Banco ABN AMRO Real S.A., which we call “Banco Real,” for the rendering of card processing services through a newly formed company called Fidelity Processadora e Serviços S.A., which we call Fidelity. Fidelity provides all card processing services (including credit, multiple, debit, benefit and private label cards), such as authorization, processing and settlement of transactions (including data exchange and other procedures for authorization of transactions, database marketing and credit analysis) as well as maintenance, printing (including tailor-made cards), mailing of invoices and other correspondences, call center, billing services and fraud prevention. Fidelity has been rendering services to our clients, Banco Real’s clients, and other card issuers since April 2006. Fidelity is one of the largest providers of credit card processing services in Brazil after the transfer of ours and Banco Real’s credit card accounts to them.

     In May 2006, we and GBarbosa, the fourth largest supermarket retailer in Brazil, entered into an agreement for the issuance and administration of its private label credit card called “Credi Hiper,” and the provision of financial services and products to Gbarbosa’s clients. There are currently more than 1.3 million Credi Hiper cards issued.

     In July 2006, we and Coop—Cooperativa de Consumo, the largest consumption cooperative in the supermarket sector of Latin America, entered into an agreement to regulate the issuance and management of its private label cards and provide financial products and services to its clients.

     In September 2006, we and Dimed S.A. Distribuidora de Medicamentos, the leading pharmaceutical company in the State of Rio Grande do Sul, entered into an agreement to regulate the issuance and management of its private label cards.

     In June 2007, we sold 676,009 of our shares in Serasa S.A., which we call “Serasa,” to Experian Brasil Aquisições Ltda., a subsidiary of Experian Solutions Inc. Serasa is leader in credit analysis and information services and products and Experian is world leader in analytical and information services to organizations and consumers. Despite this sale, we maintained the right to appoint a member for the board of directors of Serasa. As a result of this sale, we currently hold 8.3% of the Serasa’s capital stock.

     In October 2007, we entered into a partnership agreement with Banco de Chile to jointly develop investment products and offer new business opportunities and synergy gains through BRAM – Bradesco Asset Management S.A. Distribuidora de Títulos e Valores Mobiliários, our asset management company, which we call “BRAM,” and Banchile Administradora General de Fondos S.A., Banco de Chile’s asset management company.

     Our brokerage house in London, Bradesco Securities UK, Ltd., which we call “Bradesco Securities UK,” started up its activities in March 2008. Bradesco Securities UK acts as an intermediary in transactions involving Brazilian fixed and variable bonds between Brazilian companies and European and global institutional investors, and is mainly focused on the intermediation in purchases and sales of shares at NYSE, NASDAQ and BM&FBovespa environments, the distribution of research reports and prospectuses and offering memoranda, presentations to European and global investors and other investment banking activities.

     We entered into a partnership agreement with Banco Bilbao Viscaya Argentaria S.A. (“BBVA”) in May 2008, with BES in October 2008, and with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. in November 2008 to expand the offer of cash management solutions to customers of these institutions. These partnerships are an important step toward expanding our business with multinational corporations with treasuries centralized in Brazil.

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     In August 2008, we entered into an operational agreement with The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ to manage investment funds through BRAM. In November 2008, BRAM launched the Bradesco Brazil Saiken Fund, a fixed-income investment fund aimed at Japanese retail investors who are investing in Brazil. It is the first fund established in a partnership with Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management, an affiliate of The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ. On December 31, 2008, the fund’s net asset value reached R$411 million.

     In August, we became the first Latin American bank to be a part of the Connector Network, an international alliance of banks that aids multinational companies with cash management services. The Connector Network is composed of 13 financial institutions in 30 different countries and around 20,000 agencies worldwide. This partnership allows our corporate clients to use cash management services in the 30 countries where the Connector Network institutions operate.

Insurance and Other Operations

     We acquired control of Bradesco Seguros, previously Atlântica Companhia Nacional de Seguros, in 1983. Between 1983 and 2004, Bradesco Seguros acquired interest in ten other entities and currently maintains six subsidiaries to comply with regulatory requirements. These acquisitions have enabled Bradesco Seguros to develop into one of the leading insurers in Brazil.

     In March 2005, Bradesco Seguros became our wholly owned subsidiary upon our acquisition of all the shares held by the minority shareholders of the company, for a total aggregate amount of R$12.0 million.

Contact Information

     We are a sociedade anônima organized under the laws of Brazil. Our head offices are located at Cidade de Deus, Vila Yara, 06029-900, Osasco, SP, Brazil, and our telephone number at our head office is (55-11) 3684-5376. Our New York Branch is located at 450 Park Avenue, 13th floor, New York, New York 10022-2605.

Business Strategy

     We believe that the Brazilian financial system has been able to weather the sudden downturn in the world’s economy beginning in the second half of 2008 and the challenges the financial crisis presented to the liquidity of large financial institutions. We expect that the expansion of the Brazilian economy could gradually resume as a result of a significant increase in the purchasing power of certain income segments of the Brazilian population, mainly low- and medium-income population as well as an increase in private investments. This would lead to a sustained expansion of demand for financial services and insurance in the upcoming years and that, in the long-term, the Brazilian financial system may be strengthened as a result of the present world economic crisis.

     Our main objective is to remain focused on the domestic market and, taking advantage of our market position as one of the largest private banks in Brazil. Due to our position, we can expand our profitability, maximize our shareholders’ value and generate a higher rate of return than other Brazilian financial institutions.

     Our strategy to achieve these goals is focused not only on continuing to expand our client base but also on consolidating our position as a “complete bank” (i.e. by offering our clients a complete portfolio of financial products) being the “first bank” to each of our clients (i.e. by being their first option for meeting their financial needs). We are increasingly segmenting our products and services as we allocate our resources and talents to provide our clients with products and services that are tailored to meet their needs. We believe that our concern with our client’s financial profile and our respect for their individuality results in a broader satisfaction and loyalty. The segmentation of our financial services has also allowed us to better absorb and take greater advantage of the integration of institutions we have acquired over the past years.

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     We have the largest and, we believe, the best network of distribution channels among Brazilian private banks. This network includes our branches, banking posts and outlets, ATMs, Postal Bank services and other third parties channels. The growth of these channels was spurred mainly by our union with large retailers as our banking correspondents. We also have more than 63,000 physical banking posts and outlets. We have a well-distributed and extensive branch network, which optimizes our clients’ access to our products and services and allows us to fully compete in the retail banking market. We intend to continue expanding and refining our branch network to provide more and better mass products and services to our clients, in order to meet a growing demand for credit and insurance in the Brazilian market.

     We are also focused on expanding our wholesale operations in all aspects, especially our corporate and private banking services. The economic scenario in Brazil has significantly improved the performance of small and medium-sized companies, a market in which we believe we are well positioned to increase our market share.

     In addition, since 2006, we have been paying particular attention to our investment banking operated by BBI. We will continue to maintain and hire professionals for our highly qualified investment banking team, and we plan to make full use of our solid relationship with our corporate clients and high-income individuals to develop our investment banking activities.

     We also intend to intensify our entrance in segments on which we were traditionally less focused, such as securities brokerage services. We intend to take advantage of the significant growth in the Brazilian securities market over the past years and our recent acquisition of Brazil’s largest brokerage company, Ágora Corretora, in order to become one of the leaders in the brokerage market.

     We believe that our insurance segment has a high potential of growth, due to the low participation of the Brazilian insurance industry in its GDP. Increase in the average income of the Brazilian population has led to millions of new policyholders. We intend to capture new customers demanding insurance products and to consolidate our leadership in different insurance lines.

     We are also structuring ourselves to increase our scale and operational efficiency gains by segmenting our line of insurance products through the creation of specialized insurance companies in each specific insurance field. This approach allows us to avoid crossing revenues or expenses among each insurance segment as we maintain complete control over the performance of each line of products. We believe that we can benefit from this structure by maximizing insurance product sales, which essentially have a high margin contribution, creating access to independent brokers.

     Additionally, in each of our business segments, we strive to be recognized by our clients as leaders in performance and efficiency. We closely monitor and continually seek to improve our level of operational efficiency.

     We understand that the success of a financial sector company depends not only on the number of clients it has but also on highly capable, well-trained and dedicated personnel with strict work and ethical standards. Qualification, promotion and the creation of a culture of solidarity at work are keys to improving the business, creating a cooperative and friendly environment where our employees can develop long-lasting careers. In 2008, we were once again chosen in an employee survey by the “Guia Você S/A Exame” publication as one of the best companies to work for in Brazil.

     Our key philosophy is the management of our business in accordance with the highest ethical standards. Beyond creating shareholders’ value, our strategy is also guided and focused on achieving the best market practices of corporate governance and the understanding that we play an important role in our society.

     The key elements of our business strategy are to:

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Expand through organic growth

     Despite the world economic crisis, which began in the second half of 2008, we expect the Brazilina economy to recuperate and continue to grow. The Brazilian economy has been growing on a sustained basis over the 2004-2008 period and has produced strategic opportunities for growth in the financial and insurance industries, mainly due to increases in business volume of segments in which we are particularly well positioned. We plan to continue to take advantage of this growth to increase our revenue, build profitability and maximize shareholder value by:

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Build on the bank-insurance model to maintain profitability and consolidate leadership in the insurance sector.

     Our goal is to have our customers look to us first for all of their banking, insurance and pension needs. We believe that we are in a good position to capitalize on the synergies among our banking, insurance, pension and other financial activities. These products are offered throughout Brazil through our banking distribution network, Internet distribution services and new and creative distribution channels. We also have specific distribution channels for the offering of these products that rely on our 27,774 insurance brokers and 8,295 brokers for life insurance products, pension products and VGBL. We continuously assist and encourage our brokers and dealers to improve services to our clients.

     At the same time, we are looking to increase the profitability of our insurance and pension plan businesses by using our profitability measures, instead of the volume of premiums underwritten or amounts deposited, as follows:

Increase revenues, profitability and shareholder value by strengthening our loan operations and financing, our main activity, and expanding our new products and services.

     Our strategy to increase revenues and profitability of our banking operations is focused on:

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Maintain our commitment to technological innovation

     The development of efficient means of reaching customers and processing transactions safely and on a continued basis is a key element of our goal to expand our profitability and to capitalize on opportunities for organic growth.

     We have been pioneers in our field for more than six decades by creating efficient strategies and positive impacts to anticipate future challenges. Amongst these strategies, our use of cutting-edge technology stands out as a central pillar of the Bradesco Organization’s strategy for sustainability, business generation and easy client access to innovative and safe services.

     We are among the Brazilian companies that most invest in research and development in the field of banking. Therefore, with the goals of further strengthening the Bradesco Organization’s IT environment to prepare it for the decades to come and of increasing public perception of our technological resources and best practices, we have invested in a major strategic program titled “IT Improvements,” which touches upon five macro-areas of the IT chain (processes, applications, operational environments, technologies and infrastructure).

     We believe that technology offers unparalleled opportunities to reach our customers in a cost-efficient manner. We are committed to being at the forefront of the bank automation process by creating opportunities for the Brazilian public to reach us through the Internet and wireless networks, including mobile telecommunication networks. We expect to continue to increase the number of clients and transactions handled over the Internet and wireless networks through techniques, such as:

Build profitability and shareholder return through the constant improvement of our operating efficiency index

     We intend to improve on our levels of operating efficiency by:

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Maintain acceptable risk levels in our operations

     We approach the management of risks inherent in our activities in an integrated manner, a process within our internal controls and compliance structure called "Risk Management Process." This process allows the continuous improvement of our models for risk management and minimizes the existence of loopholes undermining their correct identification and assessment. The process provides a centralized and permanent method for identifying, measuring, controlling, monitoring and mitigating our credit, market, liquidity and operational risks.

     The existence of our integrated risk management and capital allocation committee, a statutory-level committee, guarantees the uniqueness of our risk management process. The committee’s assignment is to advise the board of directors in the adoption of institutional policies, operational guidelines and the establishment of limits for exposure to risks within our consolidated financial statements.

     In addition, we have three executive committees charged with topics related to credit risk, market and liquidity risk and operational risk, and which, amongst other responsibilities, are charged with suggesting limits of tolerance to their respective risks and the design of risk mitigation plans for submission to the integrated risk management and capital allocation committee.

     Finally, we have an independent department dedicated exclusively to global risk management and internal control, the risk management and compliance department, or “DGRC,” which implements and continuously accompanies the directives and processes formulated by our higher-level committees.

     Our internal risk management processes and groups, on par with the best international practices, assure the maintenance of our operational risks at adequate levels and the efficient allocation of our capital, permitting us to obtain competitive advantages.

Expansion of advantageous strategic alliances and selective acquisitions

     We understand that in the coming years, most of Brazilian financial institutions will rely on organic growth. We also believe that growth opportunities will be restricted to the acquisition of smaller institutions. However, there are still some financial institutions in newer segments, such as consumer financing, credit cards and investment banking that could possibly be acquired. Therefore, we evaluate potential strategic alliances and consolidation opportunities, including proposed privatizations and acquisitions, as well as other methods that offer potential opportunities either to increase our market share or to improve our efficiency and results. In addition to focusing on value and asset quality, we consider the potential operating synergies, opportunities for cross-selling, acquisition of know-how and other advantages of a potential alliance or acquisitions.

Banking Activity

     We offer a range of banking products and services, including:

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     Our diverse client base includes individuals and small, midsized and large companies in Brazil. Historically, we have cultivated a stronger presence among the broadest segment of the Brazilian market, middle and low-income individuals. In 1999, we built our corporate department to serve our corporate clients with annual revenues of R$350 million or more, and our private banking department to serve our individual clients with minimum net assets of R$2 million. In 2002, we created Bradesco Empresas (Bradesco Companies), responsible for corporate clients that have an annual income of between R$30 and R$350 million, with the goal of expanding our business in the middle corporate market sector. In May 2003, we launched Bradesco Prime, a new division of Bradesco offering services to individual clients who either have a monthly income of at least R$6,000 or have R$70,000 available for immediate investment. Bradesco Varejo (“Bradesco Retail”) is our division responsible for the corporate clients that have an annual income lower than R$30 million and the individual clients that have a monthly income lower than R$6,000.

     The following diagram shows the breakdown of our banking activities as of December 31, 2008:


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     The following table sets forth selected financial data for our banking segment for the periods indicated:

     The sum of the segments shown in the table below may not correspond to the amounts shown on a consolidated basis, as they do not take into account immaterial activities or inter-segment transactions.

    Year ended December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
    (R$ in millions)
Income statement data:             
   Net interest income(1)   R$14,750    R$17,188    R$19,054 
   Provision for loan losses    (3,770)   (4,617)   (6,651)
   Non-interest income(1)   9,482    12,403    10,447 
   Non-interest expense    (15,289)   (18,270)   (20,503)
   Income before taxes and minority interest (1)   5,173    6,704    2,347 
   Taxes on income    (1,348)   (1,877)   1,970 
   Income before minority interest (1)   3,825    4,827    4,317 
   Minority interest      (28)   (42)
       
 
Net Income    R$3,826    R$4,799    R$4,275 
       
 
Balance sheet data:             
          Total assets    R$206,870    R$275,400    R$373,908 
 
Selected results of operations data:             
   Interest income:             
   Interest on loans    R$20,977    R$22,608    R$33,662 
   Interest on securities    2,225    2,445    5,576 
   Interest on federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell    2,177    3,202    6,465 
   Interbank deposits    358    441    706 
   Compulsory deposits with the Central Bank    1,998    1,207    1,489 
   Others    59    37    38 
 
   Interest expense:             
   Interest on deposits    (6,230)   (5,560)   (9,636)
   Interest on federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase    (3,936)   (5,553)   (9,619)
   Interest on short-term borrowing and on long-term debt    (2,878)   (1,639)   (9,627)
 
   Net Interest Income    14,750    17,188    19,054 
 
   Fee and commission income    R$6,750    R$6,994    R$7,883 

_______________________
(1) 
Includes income from related parties outside of the banking segment.

Deposit-taking Activities

     We offer a variety of deposit products and services to our customers through our branches, including:

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     At December 31, 2008, we had 20.1 million checking account holders, 19.0 million of which were individual account holders and 1.1 million of which were corporate account holders. On that same date, we had 35.8 million saving accounts. As of December 31, 2008, our deposits (excluding deposits from financial institutions) totaled R$163.8 billion and we had a 18% share of the Brazilian savings deposit market, according to the Central Bank.

     The following table sets forth a breakdown by product type of our deposits at the dates indicated:

    December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Deposits from Customers:                         
Demand deposits    R$21,081     25.1%    R$29,423    29.9%    R$28,612    17.4% 
   Reais    20,763    24.7    29,222    29.7    28,246    17.2 
   Foreign currency    318    0.4    201    0.2    366    0.2 
 
Savings deposits    27,613    32.9    32,813    33.4    37,768    23.0 
   Reais    27,613    32.9    32,813    33.4    37,768    23.0 
 
Term deposits/certificates                         
of deposit    34,941    41.6    35,733    36.3    97,423    59.2 
   Reais    31,810    37.9    33,658    34.2    90,561    55.1 
   Foreign currency    ` 3,131    3.7    2,075    2.1    6,862    4.1 
 
Total deposits from customers    83,635    99.6    97,969    99.6    163,803    99.6 
 
   Deposits from financial institutions    290    0.4    372    0.4    698    0.4 
 
Total    R$83,925    100.0%    R$98,341    100.0%    R$164,501    100.0% 

     We offer our clients some additional special services, such as:

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Credit Operations

     The following table sets forth a breakdown by product type of our credit operations in Brazil, in each case at the dates indicated:

    December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
    (R$ in millions)
Loans outstanding by product type:             
 Consumer credit operations    R$29,302    R$40,672    R$36,734 
 Real estate financing    1,845    3,205    5,308 
 Loans from Banco Nacional de Desenvolvimento Econômico e Social (“BNDES”)   9,694    12,824    14,480 
 Other local corporate loans    23,699    31,556    47,736 
 Agricultural credit    7,399    9,032    10,459 
 Leasing    3,842    8,097    20,096 
 Credit Cards    2,652    2,330    2,501 
 Import and export financings    14,399    17,521    27,480 
 Other foreign loans    1,546    2,529    2,769 
 Other public sector loans    62    94    94 
       
 
Total    94,440    127,860    167,657 
       
 
 Non-performing loans    4,284    5,277    7,178 
       
 
Total    R$98,724    R$133,137    R$174,835 
       

The following table sets forth a summary of the concentration of our outstanding loans by borrower size.

    December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
Borrower size:             
Largest borrower     1.2%    0.7%     1.3% 
10 largest borrowers     6.1    5.5     6.5 
20 largest borrowers     9.5    9.0    10.4 
50 largest borrowers    15.8    15.6    16.9 
100 largest borrowers    21.0%    20.6%    22.1% 

Consumer Credit Operations

     We provide a significant volume of personal loans to individual customers. This allows us to diminish the impact of individual loans on the performance of our portfolio and helps to build customer loyalty. Such loans consist primarily of:

     We also provide revolving credit facilities and traditional term loans. At December 31, 2008, we had outstanding advances, overdrafts, automobile financings, consumer loans and revolving credit loans in an aggregate amount of R$36.7 billion, representing 21.0% of our credit portfolio as of that date. On the basis of loans outstanding at that date, we had a 14.7% share of the Brazilian consumer loan market, according to information published by the Central Bank.

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     In April 2008, Banco Finasa S.A. was dissolved as a consequence of its merger into Banco Finasa BMC S.A. and all of its assets and liabilities were transferred to Banco Finasa BMC S.A. In April, 2008, the merger of Banco Finasa S.A. into Banco Finasa BMC S.A. was approved by the Central Bank.

     Banco Finasa BMC, our financing subsidiary, has two business lines:

Real Estate Financing

     At December 31, 2008, we had 41,165 outstanding real estate loans. In 2008, we financed 25.1% of the residential units constructed by the civil construction sector, according to information published by the Central Bank. On December 31, 2008, the aggregate outstanding amount of our real estate loans amounted to R$5.3 billion, representing 3.1% of our loan portfolio.

     Our real estate loans are granted by the Sistema Financeiro Habitacional, which we call the “SFH” or by the Carteira Hipotecária Habitacional, which we call the “CHH,” or by the Carteira Hipotecária Comercial, which we call the “CHC.” Loans from SFH or CHH are made at annual interest rates that vary between 10.5% to 13.5% plus TR for variable installments, or 14.4%, for SFH fixed installments. As of October 2008, we do not grant CHH loans for fixed installments. Loans by the CHC are made at annual interest rates of 16% for variable installments.

     Residential loans of SFH and CHH have stated maturities of five to twenty-five years and commercial loans have stated maturity of up to ten years.

     Our construction loans granted to individuals matures up to 25 years from the termination of the construction with a 2-month grace period. Payments are made on a floating rate basis of TR plus an annual interest rate of 12% for the SFH loans, or 14.4% annual fixed interest rates for properties evaluated at up to R$350,000.

     We also extend financing to corporate plans under the SFH. These loans are for construction purposes and typically have a maturity of up to 36 months from the completion of the construction and repayment begins within three years after the approval of the construction. We make these loans on a floating-rate basis of TR plus an annual interest rate of 12% during the construction stage for SFH loans, and TR plus an annual interest rate of 15% for CHH loans.

     Central Bank regulations require us to provide an amount of residential real estate financing equal to at least 65% of the balance of our savings accounts. In addition to direct residential real estate loans, mortgage notes and charged-off residential real-estate loans, other financings can be used to satisfy this requirement. We generally do not finance more than 80% of the purchase price or the market value of a property, whichever is lower.

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On-lending of BNDES Loans

     The Brazilian government has a program to provide government-funded long-term loans with below-market interest rates to sectors of the economy that it has targeted for development. We borrow funds under this program from either (i) Banco Nacional de Desenvolvimento Econômico e Social, which we call “BNDES,” which is a Brazilian development bank wholly owned by the federal government, or (2) Agência Especial de Financiamento Industrial—Finame, which we call “Finame,” the equipment financing subsidiary of BNDES. We then on-lend these funds to borrowers in targeted sectors of the economy. We determine the spread on the loans based on the borrowers’ credit. Although we bear the risk for these on-lending transactions before BNDES and Finame, they are always secured.

     According to BNDES, in 2008, we disbursed R$8.924 billion, 45.6% of which was loaned to micro-, small- and medium-sized companies. Our on-lending portfolio was R$14,480 billion on December 31, 2008, representing 8.3% of our credit portfolio at that date.

Other Corporate Lending

     We provide traditional loans for the ongoing needs of our corporate clients. We had R$47.7 billion of outstanding corporate loans, accounting for approximately 27.3% of our credit portfolio at December 31, 2008. We offer a range of loans to our Brazilian corporate clients, including:

     These lending products generally bear an interest rate of between 1.8% and 7.1% per month.

Agricultural Loans

     We extend loans to the agricultural sector by financing demand deposits, BNDES on-lendings and our own resources, in accordance with Central Bank regulations. At December 31, 2008, we had R$10.5 billion in outstanding agricultural loans, representing 6.0% of our credit portfolio. In accordance with Central Bank regulations, we extend loans using funds from our compulsory deposits at a fixed rate. The annual fixed rate was 6.75% at December 31, 2008. The maturity of these loans generally matches agricultural cycles and the principal becomes due at the time a crop is sold, except BNDES agricultural on-lendings, which are valid for up to a five-year term and require repayments on a semi-annual or annual basis. As security for such loans, we generally obtain a mortgage on the land where the agricultural activities being financed are conducted.

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     Since October 14, 2008, Central Bank regulations require us to use at least 30% of our checking account deposits to provide loans to the agricultural sector. If we do not meet the 30% threshold, we must deposit the unused amount in a non-interest-bearing account with the Central Bank. For the agricultural cycles period from November 2008 to June 2009, we used 30% of our checking deposits to provide agricultural loans.

Micro Credit

     We extend micro credit to low-income individuals and small companies, in accordance with Central Bank regulations requiring that banks direct 2% of their cash deposits to provide such loans. We began extending such micro credits in August 2003. On December 31, 2008, we had 43,678 micro credit loans outstanding, totaling R$21.774 million.

     In accordance with Central Bank regulations, most micro credit loans have a maximum effective interest rate of 2% per month. However, micro credit loans for business directed towards a specific production have a maximum effective interest rate of 4.0% per month. The CMN requires that the maximum amount loaned to a borrower be limited to (i) R$1,000 for individuals in general, (ii) R$3,000 for individuals developing certain professional, commercial or industrial activities, and (iii) R$10,000 for micro companies with pre-defined production. In addition, terms of micro credit loans cannot be shorter than 120 days, and the loan granting fee must vary from 2.0% to 4.0% of the value of the credit raised.

Leasing Operations

     According to ABEL, as of December 31, 2008, the value of our outstanding leases was one of the largest among private leasing operations in Brazil, as measured by the discounted present value of our leasing portfolio. In addition, the aggregate discounted present value of the leasing portfolios of leasing companies in Brazil on December 31, 2008 was R$110.5 billion, of which we had a market share of 18.5% .

     On December 31, 2008, we had 651,507 outstanding leasing agreements totaling R$20.1 billion, representing 11.5% of our credit portfolio.

     The Brazilian leasing market is dominated by large banks and both domestic- and foreign-owned companies affiliated with vehicle manufacturers. Brazilian lease contracts generally relate to motor vehicles, computers, industrial machinery and other equipment.

     Most of our leases are financial (as opposed to operational). Our leasing operations primarily involve the leasing of cars, trucks, material handlers, aircraft and heavy machinery. On December 31, 2008, 88.6% of our outstanding leases were automobile leases; in the Brazilian leasing market as a whole, compared to 88.64% of leases were automobile leases.

     On December 31, 2008, we conducted our leasing operations through our primary leasing subsidiary, Bradesco Leasing and also through Banco Finasa BMC.

     We obtain funding for our leasing operations primarily through the issuance of debentures and notes in the domestic market. At December 31, 2008, Bradesco Leasing had R$42.458 billion of unsecured short-term debentures outstanding in the domestic market. These debentures will mature in 2025 and bear monthly interests at the CDI.

Terms of Leasing Agreements

     Financial leases represent a source of medium- and long-term financing for Brazilian customers. Under Brazilian law, the minimum term of financial leasing contracts is 24 months for transactions with respect to goods with an average life of five years or less, and 36 months for transactions with respect to goods with an average life greater than five years. There is no legally imposed maximum term for leasing contracts. At December 31, 2008 the remaining average maturity of contracts in our lease portfolio was 44 months.

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Credit Cards

     We issued Brazil’s first credit cards in 1968, and as of December 31, 2008, we were one of Brazil’s largest independent credit card issuers, with 20.4 million credit cards and 13.3 million private label cards issued. We offer Visa, American Express, MasterCard and Private Label credit cards to our clients. As of December 31, 2008, our credit cards were accepted in over 170 countries.

     Our partnership with the American Express Company has permitted us to successfully operate their credit cards and other related products in Brazil. Notable amongst these operations are the exclusive offers of the Centurion line of cards, which includes the Membership Rewards Program, and management of the network of establishments under contract with Amex Cards.

     In addition, through Fidelity Processadora e Serviços S.A., a partnership we entered into with Fidelity National and Banco ABN AMRO Real, in 2006 for providing credit card services, we currently rank as one of Brazil’s largest service providers of processing, customer services management and support activities.

     We earn revenues from our credit card operations through:

     We offer our customers the most complete line of credit cards and related services, including:

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     As of December 31, 2008, we had more than 67 partners with whom we offered co-branded, affinity and private label/hybrid credit cards. These relationships have allowed us to integrate our relationships with our clients, thereby offering our credit card customers banking products, such as financing and insurance services.

     Bradesco has had a long-term interest in environmental matters. In 1993, we launched the SOS Mata Atlântica card, which allocates a portion of its revenues to environmental causes, and in 2008, we launched the Amazonas Sustentável credit card, the first credit card made of recycled plastic. A portion of its revenues will be transferred to Fundação Amazonas Sustentável.

     In 2007, we entered into an agreement with the State of Amazonas to donate R$70 million to Fundação Amazonas Sustentável (Sustainable Amazonas Foundation) within five years. A portion of this project will be funded through the allocation of some of the revenues generated by our social-purpose credit card operations.

     The following table sets forth a breakdown of credit cards we issued in Brazil for the years indicated:

    2006    2007    2008 
       
    (millions)
Card Base:             
 Credit    13.0    17.6    20.4 
 Private Label    4.9    9.7    13.3 
 Debit    40.1    43.2    48.0 
       
 Total    58.0    70.5    81.7 
       
 
Revenue (R$):             
 Credit    23,233    32,775    39,738 
 Private Label    1,244    4,122    4,524 
 Debit    14,243    16,787    21,159 
       
 Total    38,720    53,684    65,421 
       
 
Number of Transactions:             
 Credit    293.8    393.7    470.9 
 Private Label    15.9    53.2    61.6 
 Debit    309.5    351.6    423.4 
       
 Total    619.2    798.5    955.9 
       

Debit Cards

     Customers who hold Bradesco Visa Electron debit cards can use them to make purchases at establishments and obtain advances at the BDN network in Brazil and the Visa Plus network worldwide. The amount paid is withdrawn from the cardholder’s Bradesco account, eliminating the inconvenience and bureaucracy of a check. The total income from debit cards was R$21.2 billion in 2008, a 26.0% increase as compared with the same period in 2007, which was the result of an increase in the client base and the preference for this type of payment.

Prepaid cards

     In 2008, together with other card issuers and Visa International, we actively participated in the distribution of Visa Vale cards, accounting for 43.3% of all sales in the benefits-vouchers sector in 2007.

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Receivables, Payment, Human Resource and Management Solutions

Receiving and Payment Solutions

     In order to meet the cash management needs of our clients, both in the public and private sectors, we offer many electronic solutions for receipt and payment management, supported by a vast network of branches, banking correspondents and electronic channels, all of which aim to improve the speed and security of information and the transfer of resources.

     These electronic solutions include: (i) collection and payment services; (ii) provision of on-line resource management; (iii) a system which allows our clients exclusively to electronically pay taxes and other contributions due to governmental or public entities; and (iv) payment of utility bills.

     In addition to these electronic solutions, we offer services to facilitate our clients’ business development, providing customized solutions. These services contribute to the productivity of our other businesses.

     We also earn revenues through the payment of taxes on collection services and payment processing services, as well as upon transfers of funds received until their availability to the beneficiary.

Global Cash Management

     The global cash management concept provides solutions regarding the cash management of multinational companies operating in Brazil and/or domestic companies operating abroad.

     Bradesco’s Global Cash Management provides payment, deposits and treasury management functionalities to companies aiming at regionally or globally centralizing their cash, by means of partnerships with banks present in several locations worldwide, using modern tools for its operations.

Charging and Other Receivables

     In 2008, we processed 592.9 million receivables through our online collection system, checks custody service, deposits at tellers (identified deposits) and credit orders via our teleprocessing system (credit order by teleprocessing or COT), a 7.5% increase as compared with the same period in 2007.

Collections

     In 2008, we processed payments of 383.2 million related to taxes and other contributions due to governmental or public entities as well utilities bills, a 7.0% increase as compared with the same period in 2007.

Check-Custody Services

     On December 31, 2008, our post-dated check-custody service totaled R$4.2 billion, a 1.9% increase as compared with the same period in 2007. Under the post-dated check system, our clients pay for goods and services with bank checks dated with a future date. Sellers deposit the post-dated check on the future date, effectively extending the time in which the payment must be made. We hold such checks in custody for our clients to facilitate the control of the document in the period between when the check is written and when it is deposited in the recipient’s account.

Suppliers and Taxes Online Payment

     In 2008, we processed over 214.2 million online financial payments and transfers, a 25.7% increase as compared with the same period in 2007. We offer our corporate clients electronic payment services, which allow them to make financial payments and transfers to their suppliers and creditors, including payment of taxes.

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Productive Chain Solutions

     In the current market, we believe that is essential that the companies, besides operating together in an activity segment, work together for better results. In this context, we have placed itself and also worked as “The Productive Chains Bank,” attempting to be present in all stages of the productive process, coming up with solutions, products, services and partnerships that meet the needs of all members of the Productive Chains, whether they are suppliers, distributors, clients or other.

Public Authority Solutions

     Public administration also requires agility and technology in its every-day activities. In order to serve this market, we have a specific area and offer specialized services to entities and bodies of the Executive, Legislative and Judiciary branches, at the federal, state and municipal levels, in addition to independent governmental agencies, public foundations, state-owned and mixed companies, the armed forces (Army, Navy and Air Force) and the auxiliary forces (Federal, Military and Civil Police) and notary officers and registries, identifying business opportunities and structuring customized solutions.

     An exclusive website was developed for these clients and presents the federal, state and municipal governments with corporate, payments, receipts, human resources and treasury solutions, meeting the needs and expectations of the Executive, Legislative and Judiciary Branches. The portal also has an exclusive place for public employees and military policemen with all the products and services we make available for these clients.

     The relationship occurs by means of exclusive service platforms located nationwide, with specialized relationship managers to provide services to these clients, bringing a close relationship to conquer new business and establishing a consolidated presence with the Public Authority.

Administrative Services and Human Resource Solutions

     We offer our corporate clients several electronic solutions for management of human resources and administrative services, including payroll processing, employee checking accounts and the “company card” for the payment of business trips and other company-related expenses. Once employees receive their salaries through this system, they may take advantage of special credit lines, special conditions for rates, fees, products and services and access our broad ATM network.

Capital Markets and Investment Banking Services

     Banco Bradesco BBI S.A., which we call “BBI”, is the company responsible for the development of operations in the fixed and variable income, structured operations, mergers and acquisitions and project finance segments.

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Variable Income

     In December 2008, according to ANBID’s Origination and Distribution ranking, BBI ranked 6th by volume in the domestic variable income market. In 2008, a year characterized by a significant decrease in public equity offerings, we were the coordinators and joint-bookrunners in the public equity offerings of Cia. Vale do Rio Doce in the amount of R$19.4 billion; of Gerdau S.A. in the amount of R$2.9 billion; and of Metalúrgica Gerdau S.A. in the amount of R$1.5 billion.

Fixed Income

     In December 2008, according to ANBID’s Origination and Distribution ranking, BBI ranked second by volume in consolidated fixed income in the domestic market. As of January 2008, the consolidated fixed income ranking comprises the sum of short-term fixed income, long-term fixed income and securitization (Fundo de Investimento em Direitos Creditórios (Investment Funds in Credit Rights), known as “FIDCS,” and Certificado de Recebíveis Imobiliários (Real Estate Receivable Certificates), known as “CRIs”) in the domestic market.

Structured operations

     BBI develops structures used to segregate credit risks through securitization, using SPEs, loan assignments with shared risk and medium- and long-term financing, based on receivables and/or other collateral. Additionally, BBI has an outstanding position in acquisition finance.

Mergers and Acquisitions

     BBI advises clients on mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, corporate restructuring and privatization operations. The value of these operations in 2008 exceeds R$37 billion.

Project Finance

     BBI has a solid track record playing the role of financial advisor and financial structurer for several projects in the project and corporate finance categories, always seeking the best financing solution for projects in several sectors of the economy. BBI has an excellent relationship with several different promotion agencies, such as BNDES, BID and IFC.

Brokerage and Trading Services

     Through our wholly-owned subsidiary Bradesco S.A. Corretora de Títulos e Valores Mobiliários, which we refer to as “Bradesco Corretora,” we trade futures, options and corporate and Brazilian government securities on behalf of our customers. The clients of Bradesco Corretora include high net worth individuals, large companies and institutional investors.

     During 2008, Bradesco Corretora traded more than R$71.4 billion in the BM&FBovespa equities market and, according to BM&FBovespa, was ranked twelfth in Brazil in terms of total trading volume.

     In addition, in the same period, Bradesco Corretora traded approximately 4,523,000 futures, swaps, options and other contracts, with a total value of R$359.177 million, on the BM&FBovespa. According to the BM&F, in 2008 Bradesco Corretora was ranked 23rd in the Brazilian market, in terms of the number of options, futures and swaps contracts executed. With more than 40 years of experience in capital markets, Bradesco Corretora was the first brokerage firm in the market to make available to its clients the direct market access, which we call “DMA.” DMA is an innovative order routing service via computer, which allows the investor to carry out asset purchase and sale operations directly in BM&FBovespa’s market with all convenience and security, without leaving home or office. Through DMA, Bradesco Corretora also provides:

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     Bradesco Corretora has sixty-one brokers covering retail investors and assisting our branch managers, eight brokers dedicated to Brazilian and foreign institutional investors and ten brokers dedicated to the BM&FBovespa. Bradesco Corretora has eleven traders on BM&FBovespa’s floor and three floor assistants. Our branch managers are charged with the task of marketing the services that Bradesco Corretora offers.

     Bradesco Corretora offers its clients the ability to trade securities via the Internet through its “ShopInvest” service. In 2008, trading through “ShopInvest” totaled R$24,434 million, corresponding to 7.4% of all transactions carried out through the Internet on BM&FBovespa and ranking Bradesco Corretora as the 2nd largest Internet trader in the Brazilian market.

     Bradesco Corretora offers its clients complete investment analysis service with coverage of the main sectors and companies in the Brazilian market. We started covering seven companies in the second half of 2008, incorporating twenty new companies in 2008 in our coverage, a process that will continue next year. There are nineteen sector specialists (senior analysts and assistants) on our analyst team. They disclose their opinions to clients with followup reports and share guides with a wide basis of projections and multiples of comparison. In addition to the analysis of our team of economists, Bradesco Corretora has its own economic team dedicated to the specific demand of its clients, focusing on the stock market.

     With Projeto Sala de Ações (Share Rooms Project) our clients have access to professionals qualified to give them advice on potential stock purchases and sales on the BM&FBOVESPA. Our ever-expanding network of share rooms currently consists of 19 share rooms located throughout Brazil. With this service, Bradesco Corretora aims at direct customer service and a closer relationship with the client, training and certificating its employees in a range of operations including structured operations, and attracting new clients. This channel is also very profitable and welcomed by the investor. It helps to bring together our network of branches, creating loyal clients and concentrating their funds with us. Thirty share rooms are estimated to be implemented by the end of 2009 and forty by the end of 2010 in strategic locations of Brazil.

     We also offer our clients the Direct Treasury Program, which allows individual clients to invest in Federal Public Securities through the Internet by registering with Bradesco Corretora through our website.

     Bradesco Corretora also offers its services as a representative of non-resident investors in transactions carried out in the financial and capital markets, in accordance with the terms of CMN Resolution 2,689, which we refer to as “Resolution 2,689.” For more information regarding Resolution 2,689 see “Item 10. Additional Information—Exchange Controls.”

Share, Custody and Controlling Services

     In 2008, we were one of the main service providers for capital markets and the national leader in qualified custody, according to the ANBID ranking. With a modern infrastructure and a specialized team, we believe we supply qualified services for capital markets related to the bookkeeping of assets (shares, Brazilian depositary receipts, known as “BDRs,” investment fund quotas, CRIs and debentures), qualified custody of securities, custody of shares underlying depositary receipts, known as “DRs,’ controllership of investment funds and managed portfolios, FIDCs and Fundos de Investimento em Participações (Equity Investment Funds). We are a qualified administrative bank, qualified depositary and compensation agent.

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     We submit our processes to the Quality Management System ISO 9001:2000 and GoodPriv@cy certifications. We have 13 certifications related to data privacy and quality.

     As of December 31, 2008:

Investment Banking Activities

     In February 2006, we incorporated Banco Bradesco BBI S.A., which we call “Bradesco BBI,” to be our investment bank and operate in the capital markets, mergers and acquisitions, project financing, structured operations and treasury areas. Bradesco BBI provides services regarding origination, structuring of business, asset management and distribution, financial flow of funds and inventory of clients. In addition, Bradesco BBI manages the operations of Bradesco Corretora and Bradesco Securities Inc.

     Our investment management areas (private banking and asset management) are separated from the investment bank activities.

International Banking

     As a private commercial bank, we offer a range of international services, such as exchange transactions, external trade financing, lines of credit, and offshore banking activities. Our overseas network is made up of:

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     Our international operations are coordinated by our exchange department and supported by twelve operational units in Brazil, in addition to thirteen foreign exchange platforms located in Brazil’s principal exporting and importing centers.

Revenues from Brazilian and Foreign Operations

     The table below provides a breakdown of our revenues (interest income plus non-interest income) arising from our operations in Brazil and overseas for the periods indicated:

                     December 31,         
   
    2006    2007    2008 
           
     (R$ in         (R$ in        (R$ in    
    millions)   (%)   millions)   (%)   millions)   (%)
Brazilian operations   R$53,388    98.6%    R$59,506    98.5%    R$76,050    98.4 
Overseas operations   736    1.4    884    1.5    1,248    1.6 
             
Total   R$54,124    100.0%    R$60,390    100.0%    R$77,298    100.0% 
             

Foreign Branches and Subsidiaries

     Our foreign branches and subsidiaries are principally engaged in financing Brazilian companies seeking external trade financing. Bradesco Luxemburg also provides services to the private banking segment. With the exception of Bradesco Services Japan and Bradesco Trade Services, our branches abroad are allowed to receive deposits in foreign currency from corporate and individual clients and extend credit to Brazilian and non-Brazilian clients. The total assets of the foreign branches, excluding transactions between related parties, were R$24.9 billion as of December 31, 2008 totally denominated in currencies other than the real.

     In October 2007, we indirectly acquired the Grand Cayman branch of BMC, as a result of our acquisition of its parent company. On December 31, 2008, Banco Mercantil de Crédito’s Grand Cayman branch had R$0.5 million in assets.

     The funding necessary for foreign trade financing is obtained from the international financial community by means of credit lines granted by correspondent banks abroad. In addition to the traditional funding source of correspondent banks, we have raised through the public and private issue of debt securities in the international capital markets US$1.7 billion in 2008. In 2008, we assumed US$2.2 billion in credit lines to finance Brazilian exports through auctions in foreign currency promoted by the Brazilian Central Bank.

     Bradesco Argentina. With a view to expanding our operations in Latin America, in December 1999, we established our subsidiary in Argentina, Bradesco Argentina, the general purpose of which is to extend financing, largely to Brazilian companies established in Argentina and, to a lesser extent, to Argentinean companies doing business with Brazil. In order to start its operations, we capitalized Bradesco Argentina with R$54.0 million from March 1998 to February 1999, and on May 29, 2007, we carried out an additional capitalization of R$27.2 million. At December 31, 2008, Bradesco Argentina recorded R$83.3 million as total assets.

     Bradesco Luxemburgo. In April 2002, we acquired the total issued and outstanding shares of Banque Banespa International S.A. in Luxembourg and changed its name to Banco Bradesco Luxembourg S.A. In September 2003, Mercantil Luxembourg was merged into Banco Bradesco Luxembourg and Banco Bradesco Luxembourg was the surviving entity. On December 31, 2008, the total assets of this subsidiary were R$1.6 billion.

     Bradesco Services Japan. In October 2001, we incorporated Bradesco Services Japan to provide specialized services to the Brazilian community in Japan, including remittances to Brazil and advice regarding investments within Brazil. At December 31, 2008, its total assets were R$1.5 million.

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     Bradesco Trade Services. A non-financial institution and a subsidiary of our branch in the Cayman Islands, which we formed on January 23, 2007, in Hong Kong, in partnership with the Standard Chartered Bank.

     Bradesco Securities (U.S. and U.K.). Bradesco Securities, our wholly owned subsidiary, is a broker dealer in the United States and England.

     Cidade Capital Markets. In February 2002, Bradesco, through BCN, acquired Cidade Capital Markets in Grand Cayman, as part of the acquisition of its parent company in Brazil, Banco Cidade. At December 31, 2008, Cidade Capital Markets had R$87.6 million in assets.

Banking Operations in the United States

     In January 2004, the United States Federal Reserve Bank granted us permission to operate as a financial holding company in the United States. As a result, we are permitted to operate in the United States market, directly or through a subsidiary, and, among other things, may sell insurance, provide underwriting services, assist with private placements, portfolio management and merchant banking services and manage mutual fund portfolios.

Foreign Trade Financing

     Our Brazilian foreign trade activities consist primarily of financing export and import transactions.

     We provide foreign currency payments on behalf of the importer directly to foreign exporters, attached to the receipt of a local currency payment by Brazilian importers. Exporters usually receive an advantage in local currency upon the closing of the export contract, in exchange for an assignment of a foreign currency receivable due on the contract maturity date. Financings of imports done prior to the shipment of the goods are called Adiantamento Sobre Contrato de Câmbio (Advances on Exchange Contracts, or “ACC”), whereby the funds obtained are used in the production of the goods that will be exported. Financings done after the shipment of the goods, when the exporter is awaiting payment, are called Adiantamento Sobre Contrato de Exportação (Advances on Export Contracts, or “ACE”).

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     Other types of financings for exports include, among others, the pre-payment of exports, BNDES-EXIM on-lending, advance discounts, exports credit notes and exports credit certificates.

     Our foreign trade portfolio is funded primarily by credit lines with banking correspondents. We maintain relationships with various North American, European, Asian and Latin American financing institutions for this purpose, relying on our network of approximately 1,000 banking correspondents abroad, 103 of which granted funding facilities at the end of 2008.

     At December 31, 2008, the balance of our export financing transactions was R$24.1 billion and the balance of our import financing transactions was R$3.4 billion. The volume of our foreign exchange contracts for exports reached US$42.9 billion, a 9.4% increase over 2007. In 2008, the volume of our foreign exchange contracts for imports reached US$22.4 billion, a 29.5% increase over 2007. In 2008, based on information made available by the Central Bank, we had a 22.2% market share in the Brazilian export market, and a 16.0% market share in the Brazilian import market.

     The following table sets forth the composition of our foreign trade asset portfolio at December 31, 2008:

    December 31, 2008 
   
Export financing    (R$ in millions)
     Advance on foreign exchange contracts – undelivered bills    R$10,302 
     Advance on foreign exchange contracts – delivered bills    1,477 
     Export prepayment    6,455 
     Onlending of funds borrowed from BNDES/EXIM    2,348 
     NCE/CCE (Exports Credit Note/ Exports Credit Certificate)   3,548 
   
Total export financing    24,130 
   
Import financing     
   Import financing - Foreign currency    1,970 
   Imports draft export    1,380 
Total import financing    3,350 
   
Total foreign trade portfolio    R$27,480 
   

Other Foreign Exchange Products

     In addition to foreign trade financing, we offer our customers other exchange services and products, such as:

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Private Banking Services

     Bradesco Private Banking makes available for its high net worth individual clients liquid assets in excess of R$2.0 million for investments, an exclusive range of products and services, including assistance in asset allocation and tax succeeding advice.

Asset Management

     We manage third-party assets by means of:

     At December 31, 2008, we had R$187.2 billion of assets under management, R$145.8 billion of which were managed by Bradesco Asset Management and R$41.4 billion of which were in third party funds related to the fiduciary administration, custodial and controlling services of BEM Distribuidora de Títulos e Valores Mobiliários Ltda., which we call “BEM DTVM.”

     At December 31, 2008, we offered 807 funds and 209 portfolios to over 3.3 million investors. We also offer a range of fixed asset, floating rate, money market and other funds. Currently we do not offer investments in highly leveraged funds.

     The following tables set forth the distribution of assets among our funds under management, the number of customers and the number of funds and customer portfolios as of the dates indicated:

   
    Distribution of Assets (1)
   
    As of December 31 
   
    2007    2008 
     
    (R$ in millions)   (R$ in millions)
Mutual Funds:         
 Fixed income    143,214    155,365 
 Variable income    14,169    10,797 
 Third party share funds    6,580    4,857 
     
 
Total    163,963    171,019 
     
Managed Customer Portfolios:         
 Fixed income    4,952    8,484 
 Variable income    7,645    6,881 
 Third party share funds    926    767 
     
 
Total    13,523    16,132 
     
 
Overall Total    177,486    187,151 
     


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    As of December 31 
   
    2007    2008 
     
    Quantity    Number of    Quantity    Number of Quota 
        Quota        holders 
        holders         
         
Mutual Funds    666    3,312,565    807    3,281,540 
Portfolio    121    540    209    568 
         
 
Overall Total    787    3,313,105    1,016    3,282,108 
         

     Our products are distributed through our network of branches, our telephone banking services and our Internet-based investment site—ShopInvest.

Consortia

     In Brazil, persons or entities that wish to acquire certain goods can form a group, known as a “consortium,” in which the members pool their resources to assist each other with the purchase of certain consumer goods. The purpose of a consortium is to acquire goods, and Brazilian law forbids the formation of consortia for investment purposes.

     In January 2003, our subsidiary Bradesco Consórcios initiated the sale of consortium memberships, known as “quotas,” to our clients. Since May 2004, Bradesco Consórcios has been the leader in the real estate segment and since December 2004, it has also been the leader in the vehicle segment. On December 31, 2008, Bradesco Consórcios registered total sales of over 349,095 quotas, with a total billed amount of approximately R$13.1 billion and a net profit income of R$177.6 million. Bradesco Consórcios acts as the administrator for the consortia, which are formed to purchase real estates, automobiles, trucks, tractors and agricultural equipments.

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Insurance, Pension Plans and Certificated Savings Plans

     The following diagram shows the principal elements of our insurance, pension plans and certificated savings plans segment as of December 31, 2008:


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     The following table sets forth selected financial data for our insurance, pension plans and certificated savings plans segment for the periods indicated. The total amounts per segment shown in the table may not correspond to the amounts shown on a consolidated basis, as they do not take into account immaterial activities or inter-segment transactions.

    As of and for the year ended December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
    (R$ in millions)
Income statement data:             
   Net interest income(1)   R$6,476    R$6,577    R$6,295 
   Non-interest income(1)   10,307    11,292    12,932 
   Non-interest expense    (13,407)   (13,949)   (14,901)
       
   Income before taxes and minority interest(1)   3,376    3,920    4,326 
   Tax on income    (918)   (1,287)   (1,545)
       
   Income before minority interest(1)   2,458    2,633    2,781 
   Minority interest    (16)   (19)   (89)
       
Net Income(1)   R$2,442    R$2,614    R$2,692 
       
 
Balance sheet data:             
   Total assets    R$61,208    R$73,028    R$69,197 
         Selected results of operations data             
         Insurance premiums:             
               Premiums of life insurance and personal accidents    1,779    1,822    2,799 
               Health insurance premiums    3,918    4,246    5,259 
               Automobile, property and casualty insurance premiums    2,424    2,775    2,905 
       
                 Total 
  R$8,121    R$8,843    R$10,963 
       
Pension plan income    791    555    710 
Interest income from insurance, pension plans, certificated savings plans and pension investment contracts    6,476    6,577    6,295 
Changes in technical provisions for insurance, pension plans, certificated savings plans and pension investment contracts    (4,199)   (4,981)   (4,225)
Insurance claims    (6,124)   (6,012)   (7,391)
Pension plan operating expenses    R$(560)   R$(478)   R$(482)

________________________
(1)      Includes income from related parties outside the segment.
 

Insurance

     We offer insurance products through a number of different entities, which we refer to, collectively, as Grupo Bradesco de Seguros e Previdência. Grupo Bradesco de Seguros e Previdência was the largest insurer group in Brazil in 2008 based on total revenues and technical provisions, according to information published by SUSEP and ANS in December 2008. Grupo Bradesco de Seguros e Previdência provides a wide range of insurance products, both on an individual basis and to corporate clients. Its products include health, life, accident, automobile and property and casualty insurance. According to the annual publication of Fundacion Mapfre in Spain, Grupo Bradesco de Seguros e Previdência was the greatest insurance and pension plan group in Latin America in 2007.

Health Insurance

     Health and dental care insurance insures policyholders for medical and odontological expenses. We offer our health and dental care insurance through our subsidiary Bradesco Saúde. At December 31, 2008, Bradesco Saúde had 3.5 million health and dental policyholders, including holders of corporate insurance plans and individual/family plans. Approximately 25,000 companies in Brazil have health insurance policies underwritten by Bradesco Saúde, including 35 of the country’s 100 largest companies.

     Bradesco Saúde currently has one of the largest health insurance networks. As of December 31, 2008, it included 9,169 laboratories, 10,631 specialized clinics, 14,326 physicians, 3,138 hospitals, 2,268 dental clinics and 8,031 dentists located throughout the country.

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Personal Insurance

     Bradesco Seguros offers life, personal accident and occasional events insurance products through our subsidiary Bradesco Vida e Previdência.

Automobiles, Property and Liability

     We provide automobile, basic lines and liability products through our subsidiary Bradesco Auto/RE. Our automobile insurance covers policyholders’ losses resulting from vehicle theft, damage to vehicles, personal injury and injury to third parties. Mass basic insurance lines are geared towards individuals, particularly those with residential and/or equipment related risks and small- and medium-sized companies, the assets of which are covered by corporate multi-risk insurance.

     Among mass basic insurance lines for individual clients, the residential ticket is a product that has a relatively affordable cost and high profitability. For corporate clients, Bradesco Auto/RE offers Bradesco Seguro Empresarial, which is tailored to meet our clients’ needs in accordance with their business. For corporate basic and liability insurance lines, Bradesco Auto/RE has an exclusive highly specialized team that provides large business groups with services and products that are tailor-made to the specific needs of each policyholder. In this segment, the transportation, engineering and operational risks, named and oil insurance policies are the most traded lines.

     In 2008, Bradesco Auto/RE had 1.3 million insured automobiles and 924 thousand basic lines policies and tickets. Bradesco Auto/RE is one of the main insurers in Brazil.

Sales of Insurance Products

     We sell our insurance products through exclusive brokers in our branch network, as well as through non-exclusive brokers throughout Brazil. Bradesco Seguros pays the brokers’ fees on a commission basis. At December 31, 2008, 27,744 brokers offered our insurance policies to the public. We also offer certain automobile, health, property and casualty insurance products directly through our website.

Pricing

     The pricing of individual health insurance in Brazil is based on medical and hospital costs and the history of individual claims. These factors, in conjunction with the number of insured individuals and their geographical regions, also guide the pricing for group health insurance. All insurance pricing calculations are based on actuarial studies.

     The price for life and personal accident insurance is usually determined based on the life expectancy of individual policyholders and, in few cases, the frequency of claims and the average damage experienced by the Brazilian population. Any amount exceeding the limit of the reinsurance agreement is automatically transferred to IRB Brasil Resseguros S.A., known as “IRB.”

     The price determination of automobile insurance is influenced by the frequency and severity level of an individual’s claims, and takes into consideration many factors, such as place of use of the vehicle and its specific characteristics. In accordance with market practice, as of April 2004, we consider the client profile in the price determination of an automobile insurance policy.

     The profitability of personal automobile insurance partially depends on the identification and correction of disparity between premium levels and the expected claim costs. The premiums charged for damage insurance to vehicles considers, among other factors, the value of the insured automobile; consequently, the premium levels partially reflect the sales volume of new automobiles.

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     Pricing in the property and casualty insurance business is driven by claim frequency and average claim amount, as well as the specific characteristics of the insured party’s location. In the corporate basic lines, insurance prices are determined in accordance with each covered risk. In case of atypical type of coverage and/or covered amounts, we must consult IRB to obtain the basic terms of the contract.

Reinsurance

     Brazilian regulations set retention limits on the amount of risks insurance companies may underwrite without having to purchase reinsurance. In accordance with such regulations, Grupo Bradesco de Seguros e Previdência reinsures with the IRB all the risks it underwrites for which the insured amounts exceed the retention limits. In addition, Grupo Bradesco de Seguros e Previdência also reinsures all risks for which reinsurance is recommended by technical-actuarial decisions, in order to minimize the risks of our portfolio.

     On January 15, 2007, the Brazilian Congress enacted the Supplementary Law 126, which extinguished the monopoly of IRB by creating the open reinsurance market to competition in Brazil.

     On December 17, 2007, CNSP issued rules over the requirements to be met by the reinsurance companies for receiving reinsurance assignments originated in Brazil. CNSP established through (i) Resolution 168, rules applicable to reinsurance, retrocession and intermediation activities; (ii) Resolution 169, minimum capital required for the authorization of local reinsurance companies to operate; (iii) Resolution 170, requirements for additional capital in accordance with underwriting risks; (iv) Resolution 171, rules and procedures for the recording of the technical provisions; (v) Resolution 172, retention limits of such companies; and (vi) Resolution 173, provisions applicable to reinsurance brokerages.

     In addition, the Resolution 168, which became effective 120 days as of December 19, 2007, authorized IRB to continue to exercise its reinsurance and retrocession activities, without continuing solutions or government requirement and authorization. This Resolution qualified it as local reinsurance company and granted it the additional 180-day term to comply with the provisions set forth in the Resolution 168. Through Resolution 189, published on October 13, 2008, CNSP extended this additional term (which had been set to expire in mid October 2008), until December 31, 2008, and enabled IRB to continue its operations without continuing solutions. The term was extended through January 2009.

     With Decree 6,499 of July 1, 2008, the President of Brazil established maximum assignment limits to eventual reinsurance companies by local insurance companies as well as to local reinsurance companies, regulating one of the pending issues.

     Throughout 2008, Susep granted the right to operate in the Brazilian market to 35 reinsurance companies, including Loyd’s, to over 70 labor unions and approximately 30 reinsurance brokerage firms authorized to intermediate reinsurance and retrocession operations.

     In 2008, Grupo Bradesco de Seguros e Previdência reinsured approximately R$325 million in insurance risks. Although reinsurance companies are liable for any risks they reinsure, the insurance companies remain primarily responsible as the direct insurers on all reinsured risks.

Pension Plans

     We have managed individual and corporate pension plans since 1981 through our wholly owned subsidiary Bradesco Vida e Previdência, which is now the leading pension plan manager in Brazil as measured by pension plan contributions, investment portfolio, and technical provisions, based on information published by the Federação Nacional de Previdência Privada e Vida (the National Association of Private Pension Plans), known as “Fenaprevi,” and SUSEP.

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     Bradesco Vida e Previdência offers and manages a range of individual and group pension plans. Our largest individual plans in terms of contributions are VGBL and PGBL and are exempted from withholding taxes on income generated by the fund portfolio. For income tax purposes, PGBL allows the participants to deduct their taxable income by the amount of their pension plans contributions, up to a limit of 12% of their overall gross income. Participants in these types of funds are taxed upon redemption of their shares, or reception of benefits.

     As of December 31, 2008, Bradesco Vida e Previdência accounted for 34.4% of the supplementary pension plan market and the VGBL market in terms of contributions, according to Fenaprevi. On December 31, 2008, the pension funds managed by Bradesco Vida e Previdência accounted for 36.5% of VGBL, 24.8% of PGBL and 33.7% of traditional pension plans in Brazil, according to Fenaprevi. On December 31, 2008, Bradesco Vida e Previdência accounted for 37.6% of all supplementary pension plan assets under management, 39.0% of VGBL, 26.3% of PGBL and 46.9% of traditional private pension plan, according to Fenaprevi.

     Brazilian law currently permits the existence of both “open” and “closed” private pension entities. “Open” private pension entities are those available to all individuals and legal entities who, by means of a regular contribution, wish to subscribe to a benefit plan. “Closed” private pension entities are those available to discreet groups of people such as employees of a specific company or a group of companies in the same sector, professionals in the same field, or members of a union. Private pension entities grant benefits upon periodic contributions from their members, their respective employers or both.

     Our revenues from pension plan management and VGBL have risen by an average of 14.5% over the past five years, in large part due to increased sales of our products through our branch network.

     We manage pension plans and VGBL covering more than 1.974 million participants, 70.3% of whom are members of individual plans, and the remainder of whom are individual members of corporate plans. Corporate plans account for approximately 33% of our technical reserves.

     Under VGBL and PGBL plans, participants are allowed to make contributions either in installments or in lump-sum payments. Participants in pension plans may deduct the amounts contributed to PGBL up to 12% of the participant’s taxable income. Under applicable law, the redemption and the benefits realized are subject to a withholding tax. VGBL participants may not deduct their contributions from their income taxes. Should the benefits be redeemed and/or deposited, the taxation will be levied on these benefits, pursuant to current legislation.

     Companies in Brazil can establish VGBL, PGBL and Fundo de Aposentadoria Individual (Individual Retirement Fund), known as “FAPI,” plans for the benefit of their employees. In 2008, Bradesco Vida e Previdência managed R$27,625 million in VGBL and R$10,425 million in PGBL plans. Bradesco Vida e Previdência also managed R$17,371 million in supplementary pension plans.

     In accordance with US GAAP, we consider VGBLs, PGBLs and FAPIs to be pension investment contracts. During the accumulation phase of the pension investment contracts, when the policyholders bear the investment risk, the contracts are treated as investment contracts. During the annuity phase, the contract is treated as an insurance contract with mortality risk. Funds related to pension investment contracts where the policyholders bear the investment risk are equal to the account value. Account values are not actuarially determined: they are increased as deposits are received and interest is credited (based on contractual provisions) and reduced by redemptions at the policyholders’ option.

     Bradesco Vida e Previdência also offers pension plans to its corporate customers, most of these plans are tailored to the needs of a specific corporate customer.

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Bradesco Vida e Previdência earns revenues primarily from:

Certificated Savings Plans

     Bradesco Capitalização offers our clients certificated savings plans with the option of making either one contribution or monthly payments. Each savings plan varies in accordance with value (from R$7.00 to R$20,000), form of payment, contribution term and periodicity of drawings of cash premiums of up to R$2 million. Clients are granted interest at a rate of TR plus 0.5% per month over the value of the mathematical provision. The certificated savings plans are redeemable by the holder at the end of a grace period that is usually 12 months. As of December 31, 2008, we had more than 5 million “traditional” certificated savings plans and more than 10.6 million “assignment of raffle right” certificated savings plans. Given that the purpose of “assignment of raffle right” certificated savings plans is to add value to the product of the partner company or even to provide an incentive for the non-delinquency of its clients, the bonds have reduced effectiveness term and grace period and low unit value of commercialization. As of December 31, 2008, Bradesco Capitalização had issued more than 15.6 million of certificated savings plans, which are held by more than 2.5 million clients.

     Quality Management System

     Bradesco Capitalização was the first certificated savings plan company in the country to receive the ISO 9002 certification. In 2008, it maintained its quality management system NBR ISO 9001:2000 certification with respect to our certificated savings plans management. This certification, granted by Fundação Vanzolini, attests to the quality of its internal processes and we believe it confirms the principle grounded in our certificated savings plans: good products, good services and permanent evolution.

     Rating

     Standard & Poor’s maintained Bradesco Capitalização’s rating of ‘brAAA/Stable’ and it is currently the only company in the certificated savings plans segment with such a rating. We believe Bradesco Capitalicação’s results are mostly driven by the solid financial condition and equity protection standards that Bradesco Capitalização ensures to its clients.

Treasury Activities

     Our treasury departments enter into transactions, including derivative transactions, mainly for economic hedging purposes (known as the “macro hedge”). They enter into these transactions in accordance with limits set forth by our management, under guidelines established by our risk management area, utilizing a value at risk methodology. For more information about our risk methodology, see “Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risks—Risk and Risk Management—Market Risk.”

Distribution Channels

     We have the largest private-sector banking network in Brazil. In 2008 we opened 199 new branches. Our branch network is complemented by alternative distribution channels such as special banking service posts on the premises of selected companies, ATMs, telephone banking services and Internet banking. In introducing new distribution systems, we have focused on enhancing our security as well as increasing efficiency.

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     In addition, in order to foster stronger ties with our corporate clients, in 2008, we established an additional 520 banking service posts on the premises of selected corporate clients, reaching a total of 3,738 banking service posts as of December 31, 2008. We offer the same products and services at these special posts as we offer in our branches.

     For information on our international branches as of December 31, 2008, see “Item 4.—Information on the Company—History and Development of the Company—Banking Activity—International Banking.”

     We also offer banking services in 5,946 Brazilian post offices and through our banking correspondent offices. For further information about this distribution channel, see “Item 4. —Information on the Company—History and Development of the Company—Acquisitions in 2003 and 2005—Other Acquisitions.”

Specialized Distribution of Products and Services

     As part of our distribution system, we have five areas that offer a range of different products and services on an individualized basis to companies and individuals throughout all specified segments of our client base. By focusing on specified segments of our client base, we are able to provide different levels of attention according to the profile of each client and, as a result, improve our efficiency in services.

Bradesco Retail

     Bradesco Retail provides banking services to the population at large, mainly assisting individuals with monthly incomes of up to R$6,000, and companies with annual revenues of up to R$30.0 million, comprising more than 19 million clients carrying out millions of daily transactions at our 3,010 branches and over 2,700 other service locations as of December 31, 2008. We reward our biggest clients in this segment by providing them with personalized services.

Bradesco Corporate

     Bradesco Corporate was created in 1999 and targets companies which have annual revenues of more than R$350 million per year. We currently have 129 relationship managers offering a range of traditional as well as tailor-made products to these customers.

     Bradesco Corporate is ISO 9001:2000 certified for all its corporate structure, and provides customer service specialists for our corporate customers.

Bradesco Empresas – Middle Market

     Bradesco Empresas was implemented with the aim of attending to the needs of companies with revenues of R$30 million to R$350 million per year, through its 68 exclusive branches in the main Brazilian capital cities and strategically distributed throughout Brazil as follows: 41 branches in the Southeast, 16 branches in the South, four in the Mid-West, five in the Northeast and two in the North.

     Bradesco Empresas strives to offer excellent business management with respect to loans, financings, investments, foreign commerce, derivatives, cash management and structured transactions, seeking both the satisfaction of its clients and good results for the Organization.

     The Bradesco Empresas team has 44 chief managers and 342 relationship managers who take part in ANBID’s Certification Program, and 212 assistant managers. Bradesco Companies’ team assists an average of 34 economic groups representing 11,787 companies in various industries.

     Bradesco Empresas manages assets in the amount of R$55.8 billion through loan operations, guarantees, deposits, funds and charging.

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     In the ongoing pursuit of improving management excellence, the Bradesco Empresas department and the Santo Amaro branch acquired NBR ISO 9001:2000 certification in Gestão do Relacionamento com Clientes (Client Relations Management) and Relacionamento com Clientes (Client Relations), both granted by Fundação Carlos Alberto Vanzolini in order to effectively maintain our management model. In November 2008, the branch was recertified.

     Bradesco Empresas was recognized by IPEG through the Prêmio Paulista de Qualidade em Gestão (São Paulo Quality in Management Award) in 2008, attesting to the Bank’s commitment to customer service quality and client satisfaction.

Bradesco Private Banking

     Bradesco Private Banking is certified by ISO 9001:2000, was granted with [“Good Priv@cy”] (Data Protection – 2002 Edition) by International Quality Network, and acknowledged by Euromoney magazine as the “Best Brazilian Private Banking” in January 2008. Bradesco Private Banking was created in 2000 to manage our relationship with high net worth individuals. For that reason, it seeks the most appropriate financial solution for each client by providing a tailor-made concept for each client focusing on asset allocation assessment, tax and estate planning.

Bradesco Prime

     Bradesco Prime operates in the high-income client segment and was created to provide services to individuals with either monthly incomes of at least R$6,000 or investments worth at least R$70,000. Its mission is to be the primary bank of such clients focusing on high-quality client relationships, and on providing appropriate solutions to their needs with well-prepared teams, adding value to shareholders and employees within our ethical and professional standards. Bradesco Prime’s segment value is based on the following assumptions:

     Throughout its history, by investing in technology, in the improvement of the relationship with clients and in the qualification of its professionals, Bradesco Prime has achieved an outstanding position in the Brazilian market of banking services to high-income clients and has been consolidated as the largest banking service provider to high income clients in terms of network with 253 branches strategically positioned to provide service for more than 429,000 clients.

     Since 2005, Bradesco Prime has been certified by Fundação Carlos Alberto Vanzolini with NBR ISO 9001:2000 in Gestão do Segmento (Segment Management). We were recertified in September 2008, strengthening our commitment to continuously improve and pursue our clients’ satisfaction.

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Branch System

     The principal distribution channel for our banking services is our branch network. In addition to offering retail banking services, our branches serve as a distribution network for all of the other products and services we offer to our customers, including our payment processing and collection services, our private banking services, credit cards and our asset management products. We market our leasing services through channels operated by our branch network, as well as directly through our wholly owned subsidiary Bradesco Leasing and Banco Finasa BMC. Bradesco Corretora and Bradesco Consórcios also market brokerage, trading and consortium services through our branches. Bradesco Vida e Previdência sells its products through 8,295 independent agents nationwide, most of whom are based in our facilities. These agents’ compensation is commission-based.

     We sell our insurance products and pension plans through our website, through exclusive brokers based in our network of bank branches, and through non-exclusive brokers throughout Brazil, all of whom are compensated on a commission basis. At December 31, 2008, 27,744 brokers offered our insurance policies to the public. Our certificated savings plans are offered through our branches, the Internet, customer services, ATM machines and external distribution channels.

     The table below sets forth the distribution of sales of the indicated products through our branches and outside our branches:

    2006    2007    2008 
       
    (% of total sales, per product)
Insurance products             
 Sales through the branches    35.6%    37.7%    35.5% 
 Sales outside the branches    64.4    62.3    64.5 
 
Pension plans products             
 Sales through the branches    84.5    83.6    82.3 
 Sales outside the branches    15.5    16.4    17.7 
 
Leasing products             
 Sales through the branches    65.7    19.7    26.0 
 Sales outside the branches    34.3    80.3    74.0 
 
Certificated savings plans             
 Sales through the branches    91.0    92.3    93.2 
 Sales outside the branches     9.0%    7.7%     6.8% 

Other service channels

     Our clients have easy access to carry out queries, financial transactions and acquisition of products and services made available at the self-service channels, Fone Fácil (Easy Phone), Internet and Bradesco Celular.

Self-Service Network

     Bradesco’s Self-Service Network has 29,218 ATMs located throughout Brazil and provides fast and practical access for a diverse range of products and services. Holders of cards in checking or savings accounts can also carry out withdrawals, issuance of statements and balances at any one of the 5,306 Banco24Horas ATMs.

     In 2008, we recorded an average of over 5.6 million transactions per day.

     2,347 ATMs were replaced due to technological upgrades and 3,756 new machines were installed.

 

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     We have 7,474 machines equipped with audio for the visually impaired and wheelchair accessible.

     The number of machines in our ATM network equipped with biometric technology and able to read hand veins to identify customers increased to 2,762, providing safer and faster authentication process to more of our customers.

Internet Services

     One of our main goals is to provide innovative Internet services for its customers. Bradesco Dia&Noite manages a portal with 57 websites, of which 40 are institutional and 17 are transactional.

     Bradesco Internet banking operates in the retail and prime segments, and makes available to its individual clients 448 products and services that can be accessed from any place in the world at any time. Our Internet banking allows our clients to check their accounts balances and statements, pay bills, transfer funds, and request document copies, among other services.

     In addition, we offer our corporate customers in retail, middle market and corporate segments the Bradesco Net Empresa service. In their banking transactions, customers use the digital certificate with electronic signature and the Bradesco Safety Key. Thus, accredited companies optimize their businesses’ financial management, and also have access to 321 products and services such as movements in checking and savings accounts, payments, charging and transferring files.

     The Bradesco ShopInvest website provides several online options including share purchases and sales with Home Broker, a system directly connected to BM&FBovespa. Our system is able to provide online quotation follow-up, calculation simulations, acquisition of certificated savings plans, private pension plans and other information on the financial markets.

     With detailed information about the lines offered, the loans and financings website – Bradesco ShopCredit – makes available to our individual and corporate clients complete portfolio. In addition, it has calculation simulators, which help to identify the best financing conditions for the operations of personal loans, CDC, leasing, real estate loans, rural loans, and Finame, among others.

     Through the Banco Bradesco Cartões S.A. website, which we call “Bradesco Cartões,” our card clients have access to several online products and services including confirming purchase and withdrawal limits available on the card, rotating credit, activating new cards and others.

     Cidadetran is a website catering exclusively to forwarding agents and driving schools, offering payment and financing solutions for all the fees and taxes related to vehicles and the Carteira Nacional de Habilitação (the National Drivers’ License), or the CNH, of the State of São Paulo. The customers enrolled in the website also have a specific Call Center available, providing telephone, email or online chat service.

     We also have specific websites for certain niches, such as Bradesco Universitários, Bradesco Nikkei and Bradesco Poder Público.

     In 2008, we recorded 1,549.1 million banking transactions through our Internet banking services, considering that we have 9.8 million users registered in Internet Banking and 571.2 thousand companies approved in Net Empresa.

Cell phone Services

     Bradesco Celular allows the customer to use mobile technology to access 37 products and services. The customer may access balance statements, payments, recharge prepaid mobile phones, transfer funds and access loan services. It uses the Bradesco Security Key to confirm debit transactions.

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     In addition, we offer Recarga Direta Bradesco (Bradesco Direct Recharge), a service which allows customers to recharge prepaid cell phones from the phone itself, even if the phone has no credit. We also offer Serviço de Mensagens Bradesco (the Bradesco message service), which allows enrolled customers to receive credit and debit card transaction information directly to their cell phones.

Telephone Service

     Fone Fácil Bradesco provides telephone services 7 days a week with convenience, agility and security. By means of an electronic and personalized service, the client obtains information, carries out transactions and acquires products and services related to their checking and savings accounts, credit cards and other products available on this channel.

     The client has access to several telephone service centers with distinct phone numbers. The main ones are: Internet Banking, Net Empresa, Consortium, Private Pension Plan, Finasa and Collection. There is also the Alô Bradesco/SAC – Costumer Service Network and the Ombudsman channels to receive compliments, suggestions or complaints, in addition to the branches’ call center.

     Hearing impaired clients have separate telephone services that use digital language technology and allow our hearing impaired clients to clarify their doubts regarding the products and services provided by Bradesco.

     In 2008, 358.7 million calls were registered, generating 371.7 million in transactions.

Capital Expenditures

     For a discussion of our capital expenditures during the last three years, see “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects¯Capital Expenditures.”

Integrated Risk Management

     Our integrated risk management policies aim to have better visibility, control and dimension of risks inherent to our business on a consolidated basis, as well as to ascertain the capital necessary to support our activities in view of maximizing shareholders’ return.

     There is an area exclusively focused on risk management at the DGRC, Integrated Risk Superintendence, that aids in the process and effectiveness of our risk management strategy.

The main duties of this Superintendence are to:

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Credit Risk Management

     Credit risk deals with the possibility of occurring losses associated with the borrower’s or counterparty’s failure to comply with its financial obligations as agreed, as well as with the depreciation of loans resulting from a deterioration in the borrower’s risk rating, reduced gains or remunerations, advantages granted in renegotiations, recovery costs and other related amounts.

     We work constantly to mitigate potential credit risks by monitoring loan activities, developing, enhancing and preparing inventories of the credit risk models, monitoring credit concentration and identifying previously unknown credit risks.

     In addition, we have focused our efforts on the utilization of advanced risk measuring models and on the continuous improvement of the processes. The benefits that we have achieved from these efforts are reflected in the quality and performance of our loan portfolio.

     Credit risk is corporately controlled by means of meetings called “Follow-up on Credit Portfolio and Recovery”. All the meetings count on the participation, every month, of the board of executive officers and officers of the key managerial areas, and by the executive committee on credit risk management, which has the following functions:

Among the key activities of credit risk management, we point out:

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     The whole process of managing credit risk involves creating action plans that are responsive to the best market practices and the requirements of the New Basel Capital Accord. Aiming to improve the management process, all ongoing actions are monitored so as to identify and solve new gaps or needs which might arise.

     We seek to implement processes in line with the requirements of the Basel II IRB – Advanced approach.

Market Risk Management

     Market risk is related to the possibility of loss from fluctuating prices and rates caused by mismatched maturities, currencies and indexes of the Organization’s assets and liabilities portfolios.

     The Organization’s market risk management is carried out by means of methodologies in compliance with the best international practices, allowing the Organization to ground its strategic decisions with agility and a high level of confidence.

     Risk limits are proposed by specific committees, evaluated by the Market and Liquidity Risk Management Executive Committee and validated by the Integrated Risk Management and Capital Allocation Committee, pursuant to the limits established by the Board of Directors considering the operation’s characteristics. Such limits are classified as follows:

     Compliance with these limits is monitored daily by the market risk group. In addition, management reports to control the positions are made available for management and Senior Management.

     Market risk measurement and control is done by VaR, EVE, stress test and sensitivity analysis methodologies, as well as the management of results and financial exposure limits.

     In order to determine the trading portfolio risk, we use the parametric VaR methodology for one day, which has a reliability level of 99%. Volatilities and correlations are calculated from statistical methods, with recent returns given more importance. The measurement of interest rate risk is made based on the EVE methodology, which determines the economic impact on positions according to scenarios prepared by the Organization’s economic area, which seeks to determine positive and negative movements that may occur in interest rate curves on our investments and funding. The models used are confirmed through backtesting.

     For more information on how we evaluate and monitor the market risk, see “Item 11 - Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk”.

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Operational Risk Management

     Operational risk is the possibility of loss resulting from internal processes, human error, inadequate or faulty systems and external events that may or may not result in the partial or total interruption of basic activities. This includes legal risk, but does not consider strategic and image risks.

     Operational risk management is supported by a corporate system, called ROCI, capable of keeping and integrating in a single data base operational risk (quantitative standards) and internal controls (qualitative standards) information, and meeting the requirements established in Section 404 of US Sarbanes-Oxley Act.

     The ROCI system will be added to our operational risk management process, as it enables to calculate capital allocation related to standardized methodologies and primarily improves the activities of capture, classification and monitoring as well as strengthening the loss analysis, measurement and mitigation processes carried out by the Operational Risk area. It also meets the schedule established by Central Bank in Notice 16,137/07 and the requirements in Resolutions 2,554/98, 3,380/06 and 3,490/07 for the implementation of internal controls systems, operational risk management structures and Required Reference Shareholders’ Equity (PRE), respectively; and with Circular Letters 3,078/03 and 3,383/08, governing the Internal Controls System in consortium management companies and the calculation of capital allocation installment for operational risk, respectively, as well as the recommendations included in the New Basel Capital Accord.

     We have stored information on five years of losses from operational risks in our historical database as required by paragraph 672 of the New Basel Capital Accord for the application of the AMA. We obtained this data from books kept exclusively for registering such losses. We calculated such losses using the advanced approach for capital allocation separated by company within the consolidated financials.

     Operational risk management, carried out in a centralized manner, encompasses all of the Organization’s activities, including those of Grupo Bradesco de Seguros e Previdência. This strategy has made it possible to obtain synergies through an equitable distribution of resources, with the compliance with the Basel II and Solvency II concepts, together with the Organization’s policies, which follow Resolution 3,380 and Circular Letter no. 3,383, with respect to consolidated financial statements.

     In April 2008, the Central Bank published Circular 3,383 and Circular Letters 3,315 and 3,316 describing the procedures that should be used to calculate the portion of PRE related to POPR. For purposes of operational risk management and the respective capital allocation, the concepts required by the Central Bank include the following approaches:

     Pursuant to Circular Letter 3,383/08, we adopted the Standardized Alternative Methodology for calculation of PRE installments related to POPR.

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     The Standardized Alternative Methodology, the business lines and the process documentation that support this approach provide greater knowledge of our products and services as well as a convergence of concepts adopted by credit and market risks. These processes and methods were validated by the Operational Risk Management Executive Committee on May 16, 2008 approved by the Board of Directors on May 26, 2008. We informed the Central Bank on May 27, 2008, in accordance with Notice 16,913.

     The capital allocated for the period from July 1 to December 31, 2008, including the reduction percentage set forth in Resolution no. 3.383/08, is presented in the table below. For allocation purposes, the amount for June 2008 is to be considered. However, for the first half of 2009, the allocation be increased mainly due to the increase in the multiplier (“Z” factor) to 0.50 pursuant to Circular Letter no. 3,383 of Central Bank.

    Second Half 2008    First Half 2009 
     
        (R$ in millions, except percentages)    
Alternative Standardized Approach(1)                
 Business Lines    R$283    —    R$571    — 
 Corporate Finance      1.7%    14    2.5% 
 Trading and Sale    91    32.0    40    7.0 
 Retail    53    18.8    149    26.0 
 Commercial    57    20.2    163    28.5 
 Payment and Settlement    51    18.1    134    23.5 
 Financial Agent Services      2.6    22    3.9 
 Asset Management    18    6.3    45    7.9 
 Retail Brokerage    R$1    0.3%    R$4    0.7% 

_____________________
(1)      Operating risk was assessed considering the financial consolidated.
 

     Based on the recommendations of the New Basel Capital Accord, the rules promulgated by Resolution 3,380 and the loss information stored in our database, we are in the process of building proprietary models for capital allocation management and value calculation using the AMA.

     In 3Q08 we concluded the process of associating with the operating loss database global consortium, known as the Operational Risk Data Exchange Association, or ORX. We were approved as a member. We expect that information will begin to be sent and delivered as of 1Q09. This information will help our scenario analysis calculations and comparisons of the Organization’s positioning an operational risk against large global players.

PCN – Business Continuity Plan

     The structuring and maintenance of a Business Continuity Plan (PCN) aims at mitigating the possibility of business interruption by protecting the business process, primarily those dedicated to client relationships and services.

GCN – Business Continuity Management

     The business continuity management process is dealt with on a corporate basis and encompasses the Organization’s essential activities. The responsibilities and duties are defined and divided into three levels: strategic, tactical and operational. The Board of Executive Officers operates at the strategic level, represented by the Executive Information Security Committee; the DGRC, which created the PCN management area, acts at the tactical level; and the Organization’s departments and related companies act at the operational level.

     On a corporate level, the Organization has divided business continuity into two aspects. First, contingency, a temporary solution to maintain the critical processes of a business area when the systems supporting such areas fail or are inaccessible. Second, continuity, the preventive development and respective maintenance of a set of strategies and action plans aimed at ensuring that the essential services are duly identified and preserved after a disaster occurs and until the normal operations are restored, mitigating or preventing losses both for the Organization and its clients.

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Management Model and Business Continuity Control

     Business continuity management is based on the preparation of the respective plans for several of the Organization’s essential activities using methodologies and tools that unify the collection and handling of data as well as the documentation of PCN processes.

Methodology

     The methodological approach applied to the development of the internal work is supported by rules and recommendations extracted from major national and international institutes, namely:

Management of Internal Controls and Compliance

     Based on a policy defined and approved by the board of directors, we keep all components of the internal controls system up-to-date, so as to mitigate potential losses generated by our risk exposure and to strengthen our existing corporate governance policies. We have also adopted additional methodologies and criteria for identification, classification, evaluation and monitoring risks and their controls.

     Our dedicated staff and our investments in technology, training and recycling courses for our personnel have allowed us to create internal controls and compliance management that are effective and consistent with international standards in order to comply with foreign and Brazilian legal requirements.

     The Organization exercises all-encompassing management of its main risks based on a methodology that gathers its five major activities arranged in a logical sequence of execution which, when concluded, enables it to assert that its Internal Controls System is effective. For operational processes, such methodology is in line with the structure of COSO, Cobit for the information technology environments and the requirements of ELC, established by PCAOB for aspects focused on Corporate Governance. Each adheres to the regulations of Bacen and to the principles recommended by the Basel Committee and Section 404 Sarbanes-Oxley.

     The Methodology of Risk and Control Management encompasses the following activities:

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     The internal control area is one of the units of the Risk Management and Compliance Department that reports to the Chief Executive Officer and is responsible for the preparation and disclosure of technical instructions, criteria and procedures related to internal controls and compliance with all Compliance Agents in the Organization’s departments and related companies.

     Compliance agents are responsible for executing activities for identification, classification, assessment and monitoring of risks and controls as well as performing adherence tests and preparing action plans, according to models defined by the Internal Controls area.

     The reports with diagnoses on the effectiveness of the Internal Controls System are regularly submitted to the evaluation of the Audit and Internal Controls and Compliance Committees at meetings. On a half-year basis, the Committees issue an opinion on the effectiveness of the Internal Controls Systems maintained by the Organization and submit it to the Board of Directors’ approval, at a specific meeting on the matter.

     Some of the key aspects of our risk management and compliance efforts are:

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Credit

     Our credit policy is focused on:

     Our credit policy defines the criteria we use for setting operational limits and extending credit. Credit limits are set by the Executive Credit Committee, which is comprised of our vice-presidents, the managing directors responsible for our operational area and our credit director. The Executive Credit Committee updates our credit limits in accordance with changes in our internal policy and the Brazilian market in general. Our Executive Directors also approve the assessment systems that our branches and departments use for each type of loan in assessing credit applications.

     Our businesses are diversified, non-selective and focused on individuals and companies that demonstrate ability to pay and credit worthiness, and care is taken to ensure that the underlying guarantees are sufficient to support the obligations considering the reasons and terms of the credit granted, besides risk classification the loan would receive, under our classification of risk system. In Brazil, the risk rating system is divided into nine categories ranging from “excellent” to “uncollectible,” based on financial and economic considerations such as the credit profile and payment capacity of the borrower. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Regulation and Supervision—Bank Regulations—Treatment of Overdue Debts.”

     We have several approval levels for loan requests for individuals as well as for corporate entities. These approval levels range from the individual branch general managers to our Executive Credit Committee. Our branches have defined limitations on their authority to grant credit based on the size of the branch and guarantee offered at the time of the transaction. However, they have no authorization to approve an application for credit from any borrower who:

     We have credit limits for each type of loan. We pre-approve credit limits for our individual and corporate clients and presently extend credits to the public sector only under very limited circumstances. In all cases, funds are only granted once the appropriate body has approved the credit line.

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     We review the credit limits of our large corporate clients every 180 days. Credits extended to other customers, including individuals, small and midsized corporations, are reviewed every 90 days.

     If a loan payment is in default, the manager of the branch or department that authorized the credit is responsible for taking the initial steps to determine if the default can be remedied. If the loan remains in default after exhaustion of extra-judicial collection strategies, the manager of the branch or department refers the case to the Credit Collection Department.

Consumer Credit Operations

     For individual customers, depending on the proposed credit support and the size of the relevant branch, loans of up to R$50,000 are approved at the branch level. If the credit support offered is not within the limits established for approval at the branch level, the approval of the loan is submitted to the Credit Department and, if necessary, higher levels of authority. The following table sets out the limits within which branch managers may approve individual loans, depending on the amount and the type of credit support offered.

    Total Risk Amount 
   
    Loan with no real guarantee    Loan with real guarantee 
     
    (R$ in thousand)
Decision-making authority:         
Manager of very small branch (1)   R$0 to 5    R$0 to 10 
Manager of small branch (2)   0 to 10    0 to 20 
Manager of average branch (3)   0 to 15    0 to 30 
Manager of large branch (4)   R$0 to 20    R$0 to 50 

___________________________
(1)      Branch with total deposits equal to or below R$1,999,999.
(2)      Branch with total deposits equal to or between R$2,000,000 and R$5,999,999.
(3)      Branch with total deposits equal to or between R$6,000,000 and R$14,999,999.
(4)      Branch with total deposits equal to or above R$15,000,000.
 

     We use a specialized credit scoring evaluation system to analyze these loans, allowing us to build a level of flexibility and accountability, besides standardizing the procedures in the process of analyzing and deferring loans.

     We provide our branches with tools that allow them to analyze credits for individual clients in a rapid, efficient and standardized manner and to produce the corresponding loan contracts automatically. With these tools, our branches can respond quickly to clients, keep costs low and control the risks inherent to consumer credit in the Brazilian market.

     If the branch manager is not authorized to approve the requested loan, the decision is submitted to our credit department and, if necessary, to higher levels of authority. The following table sets out the range within which each decision-making authority approves loans to individuals above R$50,000, irrespective of the type of credit support offered:

    Total Risk Amount 
   
    Minimum    Maximum 
     
    (R$ in thousand)
Decision-making authority:         
Credit department    R$51    R$8,000 
Credit director    8,001    10,000 
Executive credit committee (Daily Meeting)   10,001    R$35,000 
Executive credit committee (Plenary Meeting)   Over R$35,000   

Corporate Credit Operations

     For corporate customers, depending on the proposed credit support and the size of the relevant branch, loans of up to R$400,000 are approved at the branch level. If the credit support offered is not within the limits established for approval at the branch level, the approval of the loan is submitted to the Credit Department and, if necessary, higher levels of authority. The following table sets out the limits within which branch managers may approve corporate loans, depending on the amount and the type of credit support offered:

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    Total Risk Amount 
   
    Loans with no real guarantees    Loan with real guarantees 
     
    (R$ in thousand)
Decision-making authority:         
Manager of very small branch (1)   R$0 to 10    R$0 to 60 
Manager of small branch (2)   0 to 20    0 to 120 
Manager of average branch (3)   0 to 30    0 to 240 
Manager of large branch (4)   0 to 50    0 to 400 
Manager of Bradesco Company    R$0 to 100    R$0 to 400 
branch (5)        

(1)      Branch with total deposits equal to or below R$1,999,999.
(2)      Branch with total deposits equal to or between R$2,000,000 and R$5,999,999.
(3)      Branch with total deposits equal to or between R$6,000,000 and R$14,999,999.
(4)      Branch with total deposits equal to or above R$15,000,000.
(5)      Branch with exclusive middle market companies.

     If the branch manager is not authorized to approve the requested loan, the decision is submitted to our credit department and, if necessary, to higher levels of authority.

     The following table sets out the range within which each of our decision-making authorities approves loans for corporate customers above R$400,000, irrespective of the type of security offered:

    Total Risk Amount 
   
    Minimum    Maximum 
     
    (R$ in thousand)
Decision-making authority:         
Credit department    R$401    R$8,000 
Credit director    8,001    10,000 
Executive credit committee (Daily Meeting)   10,001    35,000 
Executive credit committee (Plenary Meeting)   Over R$35,000   

     With the purpose of meeting the clients’ needs in the shortest possible term and with greater security, the credit department breaks down its analyses, using different methodologies and instruments for credit analysis in each segment, paying special attention to:

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Processing Systems

     The Organization’s data processing systems are located in Cidade de Deus in a modern Information Technology Center (CTI) completed at the end of 2007. This 9,575 square meter facility was built especially to shelter our Information Technology (IT) infrastructure, and has all the requirements for class-4 certification from Uptime Institute, which ensures its availability 99.995% of the time. The CTI features computers with state-of-the-art technology and capacity equivalent to the ones that were under production in Cidade de Deus’ other facilities, to which all the central systems, with IBM Mainframe technology, were transferred. The remaining systems, based on other technologies, should be transferred by the end of 2009.

     Data are continuously replicated in a Processing Center located at Alphaville, in the city of Barueri, featuring mainframes with the same capacity as the main center, enabling it to take over the main systems’ activities in case of a problem at CTI. All the branches and ATMs have telecommunications services that work with either of the two processing centers.

     Alphaville’s IT infrastructure also shelters all the activities focused on the development of application systems.

     Should the public energy supply be interrupted, both centers have sufficient energy capacity to operate independently for seventy-two hours. In addition, we have sufficient access to fuel and the capacity to generate our own electricity indefinitely.

     The IT structure is backed by processes implemented in light of the ITIL (IT Infrastructure Library and applies renowned practices in IT services management.

Funding

Deposit-taking Activities

     Our principal source of funding is deposits from Brazilian individuals and businesses. At December 31, 2008, our total deposits were R$164.5 billion, representing 41.3% of our total liabilities.

     We provide the following types of deposit and registration accounts:

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The following table sets forth our total deposits, by type and source, as of the dates indicated:

    December 31,    % of total deposits 
     
    2006    2007    2008    2008 
         
        (R$ in millions, except %)    
From customers:                 
   Demand deposits    R$21,081    R$29,423    R$28,612    17.4% 
   Savings deposits    27,613    32,813    37,768    23.0 
   Time deposits    34,941    35,733    97,423    59.2 
From financial institutions    290    372    698    0.4 
         
 
   Total    R$83,925    R$98,341    R$164,501    100.0% 
         

     According to regulations of the monetary authority, we must place a percentage of the demand deposits, savings deposits, time deposits we receive from our clients and interbank deposits from leasing companies, with the Central Bank as compulsory deposits, as follows:

     In addition, we are required to deposit each week in an account with the Brazilian Central Bank an additional amount corresponding to (a) 5% of the average balance of our time and demand account deposits during the prior week plus (b) 10% of the average balance of our saving account deposits during the prior week. R$1 billion is deducted from the final amount. This additional amount is settled with Brazilian government securities.

     Present Central Bank regulations require that we:

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     Savings deposits in Brazil typically only pay interest on a floating basis of TR plus 6.2% per year, after funds have been left on deposit for at least one calendar month by individuals and non-profit entities, and 90 days by profit-corporations. Earnings in individual savings accounts are free from income tax.

     CDBs pay either a fixed or a floating rate, which is typically a percentage of the interbank interest rate. The breakdown between CDBs at pre-fixed rates and floating rates varies from time to time, depending on the market’s interest rate expectations.

     Cash deposits, investment deposits, savings accounts deposits, term deposits with or without issue of certificate, mortgage notes, bills of exchange, housing bonds, mortgage notes and deposits kept in accounts not movable through checks, aimed at recording and controlling the flow of resources referring to the rendering of salary payment and other compensations, pension and other similar services are guaranteed, by the Credit Guarantee Fund, known as “FGC,” up to R$60,000 per client, in the event of a bank’s liquidation.

     We issue CDIs to other financial institutions. Trading in CDIs is restricted to the interbank market. CDIs have a pre- or post-fixed rate for one day or longer terms.

Other Funding Sources

     Our other funding sources include capital markets operations, import/export operations and on-lending.

     The following table sets forth the source and amount of our other funding sources as of the dates indicated:

    December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
    (R$ in millions)
Funding Sources:             
   Import/export financing    R$4,440    R$6,073    R$10,958 
   Internal funds on-lending    11,642    14,087    19,095 
   Leasing obligations    430    874    1,042 
   Capital markets:             
   Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to             
      repurchase    42,875    69,015    74,730 
   Euronotes    1,235    810    217 
   Mortgage-backed securities    841    867    771 
   Subordinated notes    11,949    15,850    19,249 
   Debentures (non-convertible)   2,603    2,595    1,220 
   Securitization of credit card receivables    1,344    2,497    5,305 
   Commercial paper    1,225    1,915    2,890 
   Foreign currency loans    78    1,335    356 
   Others    44     
       
 
Total    R$78,706    R$115,919    R$135,834 
       

     Our capital markets operations act as a funding source for us through our transactions with financial institutions, mutual funds, fixed and variable income investment funds and foreign investment funds. In these transactions we sell public and private bonds and securities with an obligation to repurchase them. These transactions usually have short terms.

     In order to provide our customers with loans through on lending, including the extension of credit lines for foreign trade financing, we maintain credit relationships with various United States, European, Asian and Latin American financial institutions.

     We conduct on-lending operations where we act as the transfer agent for development agency funds, granting credits to third parties, which are in turn funded by development organizations. BNDES, the International Bank of Reconstruction and Development, which we call “IBRD,” and the IDB are the principal providers of these funds. The lending criteria, the decision to lend and the credit risk are our responsibility and subject to certain limitations set by the bodies supplying the funds.

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Property, Plant and Equipment

     As of December 31, 2008, we owned 826 properties and leased 2,613 properties throughout Brazil and eight properties abroad, all of which we used for the operation of our network of branches and in performance of our business. We own the building where our headquarters are located in Cidade de Deus, Osasco, São Paulo, State of São Paulo. The majority of our leased property is leased under renewable contracts with terms of an average of 23 years.

Seasonality

     We believe that seasonality does not materially affect our business.

Competition

     We face significant competition in all of our principal areas of operation, as the Brazilian market for financial and banking services is highly competitive.

     In 2008, there were two large mergers and acquisitions in the Brazilian market:

     Additionally, on December 19, 2008, Banco do Brasil and the São Paulo State Government executed a Share Purchase Agreement transferring control of Banco Nossa Caixa S.A. to Banco do Brasil. The Central Bank approved the transaction on March 10, 2009.

     On December 31, 2008, National Private Financial Institutions (including the Financial Conglomerates) held 41% of the National Financial System’s assets, followed by the Public Financial Institutions with a 38% share by Foreign Financial Institutions, with a 21% share.

     Public-sector financial institutions play an important role in the Brazilian banking industry and operate within the same legal and regulatory framework as the private-sector banks.

     On December 31, 2008, there were 136 financial conglomerates comprised of multiple-service and commercial banks (including Caixa Econômica Federal), providing a full range of commercial banking activities, such as consumer finance, investment banking, brokerage services, leasing, savings and loans and other financial services in Brazil. For further information of the risks related to competition, see “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to the company and the Brazilian Banking Industry—The increasingly competitive environment in the Brazilian banking and insurance industries may negatively affect our business prospects.”

Credit Cards

     The Brazilian credit card market is highly competitive, with approximately 124 million credit cards issued as of December 31, 2008, according to Abecs. Our primary competitors are Banco do Brasil, Banco Itaú, Unibanco and Citibank. Management believes that the primary competitive factors in this area are interest rates, annual fees, card distribution network and the relative benefits the cards offer.

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     Other competition for credit cards exists in the form of post-dated checks, a popular means of term payment in Brazil in which customers pay for merchandise and services with future dated bank checks, effectively allowing payment in installments over a longer term. Because of their convenience and growing acceptance, we believe that credit cards will gradually replace post-dated checks.

Leasing

     In general, the Brazilian leasing market is dominated by companies affiliated with vehicle and equipment producers and large banks. We currently enjoy certain competitive advantages, as we have the largest branch network among our private sector competitors.

Asset Management

     Brazilian investment funds closed 2008 with R$1.128 trillion in assets a 12% decrease in 2008 as compared to 2007. The variation was mainly due to:

     The investment fund segment faced strong adjustments in 2008, due to higher volatility, in higher risk assets and the shift of investments to safer assets. Our main competitors are Banco do Brasil, Banco Itaú/Unibanco, Caixa Econômica Federal and Santander.

Insurance, Pension Plans and Certificated Savings Plans

     Insurance Sector

     Grupo Bradesco de Seguros e Previdência, the leading insurance company in the Brazilian market with a 23.9% market share, faces increased competition from a number of Brazilian and multinational corporations in all of its insurance operations.

     As of December 31, 2008, our primary competitors were Itaú Unibanco Seguros S.A, Sul América Cia. Nacional Seguros, Porto Seguro Cia. de Seguros Gerais, Caixa Seguros, Mapfre Seguradora S.A. and Tókio Marine, which represent in the aggregate approximately 44.6% of the total premiums generated in the market, pursuant to information from SUSEP. Although national companies underwrite the majority of the insurance business, we also face competition from local and regional companies primarily in the health insurance segment where they are able to operate at a lower cost or specialize in providing coverage to particular risk groups.

     Competition in the Brazilian insurance industry has changed dramatically in the past few years as foreign companies have begun to form joint ventures with Brazilian insurance companies that have expertise in the Brazilian market. For example, in 2002, the Dutch Group ING acquired an interest in one of the companies of the Sul América Group. Hartford operates in Brazil through a joint venture with the Icatu Group. AXA, Allianz, ACE, Generalli, Tokio Marine and other international insurers offer insurance products in Brazil through their own local facilities.

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     We believe that the principal competitive factors in this area are price, financial stability, name recognition and service. At the branch level, we believe that competition is primarily based on the level of service, including claims handling, the level of automation and the development of long-term relationships with individual agents. We believe that our ability to distribute insurance products through our branch network gives us a competitive advantage over most other insurance companies. Because most of our insurance products are offered through our retail bank branches, we benefit from certain cost savings and marketing synergies compared with our competitors. This cost advantage could become less significant over time, however, as other large private banks begin using their own branch networks to offer insurance products through dedicated agents.

Private Pension Plan Sector

     The monetary stability process that accompanied the implementation of the real plan stimulated the pension plan sector, attracting to the Brazilian market new international players, such as Principal, which created Brasilprev in association with Banco do Brasil; Hartford, through a joint venture with the Icatu Group; ING through a partnership with Sul América, MetLife; Nationwide, and others.

     In addition to monetary stability, favorable tax treatment and the prospect of a fundamental reform of Brazil’s social security system contributed to the increase in competition.

     Bradesco Vida e Previdência is currently the leader of the pension plan market, accounting for 37.6% of total assets under management in the sector in 2008, according to Fenaprevi.

     We believe that the Bradesco brand name, together with our extensive branch network, strategy, pioneer work and product innovation, are our competitive advantages.

Certificated Savings Plans

     The certificated savings plan market has been competitive since 1994 when exchange rates became more stable and inflation was reduced. As of November 30, 2008, Bradesco Capitalização was second in the industry ranking with 18.9% of the market on technical revenues and 20.2% in technical provisions, according to SUSEP.

     Our primary competitors in the certificated savings plans sector are Brasilcap Capitalização S.A., Itaú Unibanco Capitalização S.A., Santander Capitalização, Caixa Capitalização S.A, Icatu Hartford Capitalização S.A. and HSBC Capitalização S.A.. Offering low-cost products with a high number of drawings for prizes, financial stability and safety and brand recognition are the principal competitive factors in this industry.

REGULATION AND SUPERVISION

Principal Financial Institutions

     On December 31, 2008, 15 financial conglomerates operated in Brazil. They were composed of public sector commercial and multiple-service banks controlled by federal and state governments, (including Caixa Econômica Federal) and 121 financial conglomerates composed of commercial and multiple-service banks owned by the private sector. For purposes of Brazilian regulations, insurance companies, private pension plans and certificated savings plan providers are not considered financial institutions.

Public Sector Financial Institutions

     The Brazilian federal and state governments control various commercial banks and financial institutions. The primary purpose of these institutions is to foster economic development. Government-owned banking institutions play an important role in the Brazilian banking industry. These institutions hold a significant portion of the banking system’s total deposits and total assets and are the major lenders of government funds to industry and agriculture. In the last ten years several public sector multiple-service banks have been privatized and acquired by Brazilian and foreign financial groups.

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     The primary government-controlled banks include:

Private Sector Financial Institutions

As of December 31, 2008, the Brazilian financial private sector included:

Principal Regulatory Agencies

     The basic institutional framework of the Brazilian financial system was established in 1964 by Law No. 4,595, known as the “Banking Reform Law.” The Banking Reform Law created the Central Bank and the CMN.

The CMN

     The CMN, the highest authority responsible for Brazilian monetary and financial policy, is responsible for the overall supervision of Brazilian monetary, credit, budgetary, fiscal and public debt policies. The CMN is responsible for:

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     In December 2006, CMN mandated the creation of a risk-monitoring model by the CVM (the “Supervision System Based on Risk, which we call “SBR”). SBR’s purpose is to: (i) identify market risks; (ii) evaluate and rank these risks in accordance with their potential effects; (iii) establish mechanisms for mitigating these risks and the harm that they might cause; and (iv) control and monitor the occurrence of risk events. Additional measures necessary to implement SBR must be enacted by the CMN.

The Central Bank

     The Central Bank is responsible for:

     The president of the Central Bank is appointed by the president of Brazil for an indefinite term of office subject to approval by the Brazilian Senate.

     The Central Bank supervises financial institutions by:

The CVM

     The CVM is responsible for regulating the Brazilian securities markets in accordance with the securities and exchange policies established by CMN.

     The CVM is responsible for the supervision and regulation of variable income mutual funds. In addition, since November 2004, the CVM has had the authority to regulate and supervise fixed income assets funds. For more information, please see “Asset Management Regulation.”

Bank Regulations

Principal Limitations and Restrictions on Activities of Financial Institutions

     Under applicable laws and regulations, a financial institution operating in Brazil:

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  any individual that controls the institution or holds, directly or indirectly, more than 10.0% of its share capital;
 
  any entity that controls the institution or with which it is under common control, or any officer, director or member of the fiscal council of such entity, or any immediate family member of such individuals;
 
  any entity that, directly or indirectly, holds more than 10.0% of its shares (with some exceptions);
 
  any entity that it controls or of which it directly or indirectly holds more than 10.0% of the share capital;
 
  any entity whose board of executive officers is made up of the same or substantially the same members as its own executive committee; or
 
  its executive officers and directors (including their immediate families) or any company controlled by its executive officers and directors or their immediate families or in which any of them, directly or indirectly, holds more than 10.0% of the share capital.

     The restrictions with respect to transactions with related parties do not apply to transactions entered into by financial institutions in the interbank market.

Capital Adequacy and Leverage

     Brazilian financial institutions are subject to a capital measurement and standards methodology based on a weighted risk asset ratio. The framework of such methodology is similar to the international framework for minimum capital measurements as adopted in the Basel Accord. The Basel Accord requires banks to have a minimum capital to risk-weighted assets ratio 8.0% . At least half of total capital must consist of Tier I capital. Tier I, or core, capital includes equity capital less certain intangibles. Tier II capital includes asset revaluation reserves, general loan loss reserves and subordinated debt, subject to some limitations. Tier II capital is limited to the amount of Tier I capital.

     The requirements imposed by the CMN differ from the Basel Accord in a few respects. Among other differences, the CMN:

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     For further discussion see “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Capital Compliance.”

     Financial institutions are also required to maintain their net worth at a certain level. The adjusted net worth of a financial institution is represented by the sum of its Tier I and Tier II capital and is used in determining its operational limits. In July 2008, the Central Bank issued certain rules to include the operational risk of financial institutions amongst the factors to be considered in the calculation of their adjusted net worth.

     Financial institutions, excepting credit unions, must keep consolidated accounting registers (for purposes of calculating their capital requirements) of their investments in companies whenever they hold, directly or indirectly, individually or with partners, a controlling participation in such companies. When their participation does not result in control of a company, financial institutions can opt to account for the holding as equity in earnings of unconsolidated companies instead of consolidation.

     Under certain conditions and within certain limits, financial institutions are able to include subordinated debt in the determination of their capital requirements for purposes of calculating their operational limits, provided that such subordinated debt complies with the following requirements:

     Brazilian financial institutions may elect to calculate their capital requirements on either a consolidated or unconsolidated basis.

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Reserve Requirements

     The Central Bank imposes compulsory reserve and related requirements upon Brazilian financial institutions from time to time. The Central Bank uses reserve requirements as a mechanism to control the liquidity of the Brazilian financial system. Historically, the reserves imposed on demand deposits, savings deposits and time deposits have accounted for substantially all amounts required to be deposited with the Central Bank. For a summary of the current compulsory reserve requirements applicable for demand deposits, savings deposits, and time deposits, see “Item 4.—History and Development of the Company—Banking Activity—Deposit-taking Activities.”

     The total consolidated exposure of a financial institution in foreign currencies and gold cannot exceed 30.0% of its adjusted net worth. In addition, if its exposure is greater than 5.0% of its adjusted net worth, the financial institution must hold additional capital at least equivalent to 100.0% of its exposure. Since July 2, 2007, the amount internationally offset in opposite exposures (purchases and sales) in Brazil and abroad by institutions of a same conglomerate is required to be added in the respective conglomerate’s net consolidated exposure.

     In the past, the Central Bank has imposed certain compulsory deposit requirements on other types of financial transactions. These requirements are no longer in effect, but they may be re-imposed in the future or similar restrictions may be instituted. At the beginning of 2008, the Central Bank determined a new compulsory deposit requirement over interbank deposits of leasing companies. Our leasing company invests most of its cash available for immediate investment in interbank deposit accounts with us. This new Central Bank requirement would have an adverse impact on the cost of our deposit-taking activities. For more information on Central Bank restrictions see “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Bradesco and the Brazilian Banking Industry.”

Asset Composition Requirements

     Brazilian financial institutions may not allocate more than 25.0% of their adjusted net worth to loans (including guarantees) to the same client (including client’s parent, affiliates and subsidiaries) or in securities of any one issuer, and may not act as underwriter (excluding best efforts underwriting) of securities issued by any one issuer representing more than 25.0% of their adjusted net worth.

     Permanent assets (defined as property and equipment other than commercial leasing operations, unconsolidated investments and deferred assets) of Brazilian financial institutions may not exceed 50.0% of their adjusted net worth.

     The National Monetary Council issued rules in October 2008 requiring financial institutions to record: (i) rights aiming assets intended for maintaining the institution’s activities, including those resulting from operations that have transferred the benefit, risks and control of these assets to the institution, except for lease operations assets for fixed assets; and (ii) the restructuring expenses that effectively result in an increase in income of more than one fiscal year and do not constitute merely a reduction in costs or greater operational efficiency for deferred assets. A subsequent rule defined intangible assets as acquired rights aiming immaterial assets intended for maintaining the institution or exercised with this purpose, including those corresponding to payroll services, income, salary, wages and retirement and pension payments, among others.

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Repurchase Transactions

     Repurchase transactions are subject to operational capital limits based on the financial institution’s shareholders’ equity, as adjusted in accordance with Central Bank regulations. A financial institution may only hold repurchase transactions in an amount up to 30 times its adjusted net worth. Within that limit, repurchase operations involving private securities may not exceed five times the amount of the financial institution’s adjusted net worth. Limits on repurchase operations involving securities backed by Brazilian governmental authorities vary in accordance with the type of security involved in the transaction and the perceived risk of the issuer as established by the Central Bank.

On-lending of Funds Borrowed Abroad

     Financial institutions and leasing companies are permitted to borrow foreign currency-denominated funds in the international markets (through direct loans or the issuance of debt securities) in order to on-lend such funds in Brazil. These on-lendings take the form of loans denominated in reais but indexed to the U.S. dollar. The terms of the on-lending transaction must mirror the terms of the original transaction. The interest rate charged on the underlying foreign loan must also conform to international market practices. In addition to the original cost of the transaction, the financial institution may only charge an on-lending commission.

     Furthermore, the amount of loan in foreign currency should be limited to the sum of external operations of the financial institution to which loan funds must be directed. Lastly, pursuant to the Central Bank’s Circular Letter 3,434, the total loan operations made at the expense of these funds are given as collateral to the Central Bank as a condition for the release of the amount to the financial institution.

Foreign Currency Position

     Transactions in Brazil involving the sale and purchase of foreign currency may only be conducted by institutions authorized by the Central Bank to operate in the foreign exchange market.

     Until March 14, 2005, the Brazilian foreign exchange market was divided into two segments, the commercial rate exchange market (“Commercial Market”) and the floating rate exchange market (“Floating Market”). The Commercial Market was reserved primarily for foreign trade transactions and transactions that generally require registration with the Central Bank. The Floating Market applied to all transactions to which the Commercial Market did not apply. Only banks, brokers, dealers and the Central Bank had access to the Commercial Market, whereas the Floating Market was open to all institutions authorized by the Central Bank.

     In March 2005 the Central Bank enacted new regulations that introduced significant changes in the foreign currency exchange regime. These rules were announced by the Central Bank as part of a liberalization program intended to enhance market efficiency and to allow more transparency of the flows of foreign currency into and out of Brazil.

     Under the new rules, the previously existing Commercial and Floating Markets were unified under a single foreign currency exchange regime (the “Exchange Market”), in which all foreign exchange currency transactions are concentrated. The newly unified Exchange Market allows the liquidation in foreign currency of any commitments in reais that are contracted between individuals and/or legal entities resident in Brazil and individuals or legal entities resident abroad, upon the presentation of the relevant documentation.

     Access to the Exchange Market may be granted by the Central Bank to commercial banks, multiple banks, investment banks, development banks, savings and loans entities, financing and investment associations, foreign exchange brokers, securities brokers and dealers, travel agencies and to the means of tourism lodging. Entities that were authorized to operate in the old Commercial and Floating Markets as of March 4, 2005, have been automatically authorized to operate in the new Exchange Market.

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     The Central Bank currently does not impose limits on the exchange long positions (i.e., where the aggregate amount of the purchases of foreign currency is greater than the amount of the sales) of banks authorized to operate in the Exchange Market. Since December 2005, the Central Bank ceased imposing limits on the exchange short positions (i.e., when the aggregate amount of purchases of foreign currency is less than the amount of sales) for banks authorized to operate in the Exchange Market.

     Pursuant to CMN regulations, the investment abroad of available funds in foreign currency must be limited to (i) securities issued by the Brazilian government; (ii) securities issued by foreign governments; (iii) securities issued by financial institutions, or which are under their responsibility; and (iv) time deposit in financial institutions.

Interest Rates

     The Brazilian Constitution promulgated in 1988 established a 12.0% per year ceiling on loan interest rates, including bank loan interest rates. This ceiling was not enforced, however, because the Brazilian Congress did not adopt the necessary implementing legislation. In May 2003, said article was revoked pursuant to a constitutional amendment.

     Under BR GAAP, financial institutions are required to classify their loans into nine categories, ranging from AA to H, on the basis of their risk. These credit classifications are determined in accordance with Central Bank criteria relating to:

In the case of corporate borrowers, the nine categories that we use are as follows:

Rating    Our Classification    Our Concept 
     
AA    Excellent    First-tier large company or group, with a long track record, market leadership and excellent economic and financial concept and positioning. 
         
  Very Good    Large company or group with sound economic and financial position that is active in markets with good prospects and/or potential for expansion. 
         
  Good    Company or group, regardless of size, with good economic and financial positioning. 
         
  Acceptable    Company or group with a satisfactory economic and financial situation but with performance subject to economic variations. 
         
  Fair    Company or group with economic and financial positioning in decline or unsatisfactory accounting information, under risk management. 

A loan may be upgraded if it has a credit support or downgraded if in default.

Collection of doubtful loans is classified according to the loss perspective, as shown below:

Rating    Our Classification 
   
  Deficient 
     
  Bad 
     
  Critical 
     
  Uncollectible 

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     In the case of transactions with individuals, we have a similar nine-category ranking system. We grade the credit based on data including the individual’s income, net worth and credit history, as well as other personal data.

     Financial institutions must make monthly loan loss provisions to match contingencies for regulatory purposes. In general, banks review the loan classifications annually. However, a review is made every six months in the case of transactions that are extended to a single client or economic group whose aggregate amount exceeds 5.0% of the financial institution’s adjusted net worth. A past due loan is reviewed monthly.

     Financial institutions should maintain a credit risk management structure compatible with the nature of their transactions and with the complexity of products and services offered, which should also be proportional to the institution’s credit risk exposure.

     For past due loans, the regulations establish maximum risk classifications, as follows:

Number of Days Past Due (1)   Maximum Classification 
   
15 to 30 days   
31 to 60 days   
61 to 90 days   
91 to 120 days   
121 to 150 days   
151 to 180 days   
More than 180 days   

_______________________________________________________
(1)      The period should be counted in double in the case of loans with maturity in excess of 36 months.
 

     Financial institutions are required to determine, on a monthly basis, whether any loans must be reclassified as a result of these maximum classifications. If so, they must adjust their regulated provisions accordingly.

     The regulations specify a minimum provision for each category of loan, which is measured as a percentage of the total amount of the credit operation, as follows:

Classification of Loan    Minimum Provision (%)
   
AA   
  0.5 
  1.0 
  3.0 
  10.0 
  30.0 
  50.0 
  70.0 
H (1)   100.0 

______________________________________________
(1) Banks must write off any loan six months after their initial classification as an H loan.

     Loans of up to R$50,000 may be classified by the financial institution’s own evaluation method or according to the delay in payments criteria described above.

     Financial institutions must make their lending and loan classification policies available to the Central Bank and to their independent accountants. They also have to submit to the Central Bank information relating to their loan portfolio, along with their financial statements. This information must include:

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     The Central Bank requires that authorized financial institutions prepare and submit their financial statements in accordance with several requirements. The Central Bank may admit discrepancies in these statements up to 5% per risk level and 2.5% in the reconciled amount.

Brazilian Clearing System

     The Brazilian clearing system was regulated and restructured under legislation enacted in 2001. The 2001 regulation is intended to increase the responsiveness of the system through the adoption of multilateral settlement and the safety and soundness of the system by reducing the risk of systemic default and the credit risk and liquidity of financial institutions.

     The systems comprising the Brazilian clearing system are responsible for creating safety mechanisms and rules for controlling risks and contingencies, for loss sharing among market participants and for direct execution of custody positions of agreements and foreclosure of collateral held under custody. In addition, clearing houses and settlement services providers that are considered important to the system are obligated to set aside a portion of their assets as an additional guarantee for the settlement of transactions.

     Currently, responsibility for the settlement of a transaction is assigned to the clearinghouses and settlement service providers responsible for it. Once a financial transaction has been submitted for clearing and settlement, it generally becomes the obligation of the relevant clearing house and/or settlement services provider to clear and settle it, and it is no longer subject to the risk of bankruptcy or insolvency on the part of the market participant that submitted it for clearing and settlement.

     Financial institutions and other institutions chartered by the Central Bank are also required under the new rules to create mechanisms to identify and avoid liquidity risks, in accordance with certain procedures established by the Central Bank. Under these procedures, institutions are required to:

     Financial institutions were positively affected by a restructuring of the Brazilian clearing system. Under the old system, in which transactions were processed at the end of the day, institutions could carry a balance, positive or negative, which is no longer allowed. Payments must now be processed in real time, and amounts over R$5,000 may be covered by electronic transfers between institutions in immediately available funds. In case they are covered by checks, an additional bank fee will be charged.

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     After a period of tests and gradual implementation, the new Brazilian clearing system entered into operation in April 2002. The Central Bank and CVM have the power to regulate and supervise the Brazilian payments and clearing system.

Dissolution of Financial Institutions

     In February 2005, the New Bankruptcy Law was approved, replacing the previous regime that had been in effect since 1945. The main goal of the New Bankruptcy Law is to prevent the liquidation of viable companies, for being incapable of fulfilling their debt obligations. The New Bankruptcy Law seeks to do that by providing greater levels of flexibility to design reorganization strategies while increasing safeguards for secured creditors. It also seeks to improve creditors’ ability to recover through the judiciary system by promoting an agreement between the company and a commission comprised of creditors. The New Bankruptcy Law is not currently applicable to financial institutions, and, accordingly, Law 6,024/74 governing the intervention and administrative liquidation of financial institutions is still applicable to us.

Intervention

     The Central Bank will intervene in the operations and the management of any financial institution not controlled by the federal government if the institution:

     Intervention may also be ordered upon the request of a financial institution’s management.

     Intervention may not exceed twelve months. During the intervention period, the institution’s liabilities for overdue obligations, maturity dates for pending obligations contracted prior to the intervention, and liabilities for deposits in the institution existing on the ruling date are suspended.

Administrative Liquidation

The Central Bank will liquidate a financial institution if:

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As a consequence of administrative liquidation:

Temporary Special Administration Regime

     The temporary special administration regime, known as “RAET,” is a less severe form of Central Bank intervention in financial institutions, which allows institutions to continue to operate normally. RAET may be ordered in the case of an institution which:

Repayment of Creditors in Liquidation

     In the case of liquidation of a financial institution, employees’ wages, indemnities and tax claims have the highest priority over any claims against the bankrupt institution. In November 1995, the Central Bank created the FGC to guarantee the payment of funds deposited with financial institutions in case of intervention, administrative liquidation, bankruptcy, or other state of insolvency. Members of the FGC are financial institutions that accept demand, time and savings deposits as well as savings and loans associations. The FGC is funded principally by mandatory contributions from all Brazilian financial institutions that work with customer deposits.

     The FGC is a deposit insurance system that guarantees a certain maximum amount of deposit and certain credit instruments held by a customer against a financial institution (or against member financial institutions of the same financial group). The liability of the participating institutions is limited to the amount of their contributions to the FGC, with the exception that in limited circumstances if FGC payments are insufficient to cover insured losses, the participating institutions may be asked for extraordinary contributions and advances. The payment of unsecured credit and customer deposits not payable under the FGC is subject to the prior payment of all secured credits and other credits to which specific laws may grant special privileges.

     In September 2006, CMN increased the maximum amount of the guarantee provided by the FGC from R$20,000 to R$60,000. In addition, it reduced the ordinary monthly related-FGC contribution from 0.025% to 0.0125% over the balance of banking accounts that are covered by FGC insurance.

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Internal Compliance Procedures

All financial institutions must have in place internal policies and procedures to control:

     The board of executive officers of the financial institution is responsible for implementing an effective structure of internal controls by defining responsibilities and control procedures and establishing corresponding goals and procedures at all levels of the institution. The board of executive officers is also responsible for verifying compliance with all internal procedures.

     We revised our by-laws to include a provision for an internal control and compliance committee, formed by three to six members appointed by our Board of Directors.

Restrictions on Foreign Banks and Foreign Investment

     The Brazilian constitution prohibits foreign financial institutions from establishing new branches in Brazil, except when duly authorized by the Brazilian government. A foreign bank duly authorized to operate in Brazil through a branch or a subsidiary is subject to the same rules, regulations and requirements that are applicable to any other Brazilian financial institution.

     The Brazilian constitution permits foreign individuals or companies to invest in the voting shares of Brazilian financial institutions only if they have specific authorization from the Brazilian government. However, foreign investors without specific authorization may acquire publicly traded non-voting shares of Brazilian financial institutions or depositary receipts offered abroad representing non-voting shares.

Anti-Money Laundering Regulations, Banking Secrecy and Financial Transactions Linked to Terrorism

Under Brazilian anti-money laundering law, financial institutions must:

     The financial institution must review transactions or proposals whose characteristics may indicate the existence of a crime and inform the Central Bank of the proposed or executed transaction. Records of transactions involving currency or any asset that can be converted into money, records of transactions that exceed R$10,000 in a calendar month, and records of check transactions must be kept for at least five years, unless an investigation by CVM into the financial institution is in progress, in which case such five-year obligation may be extended.

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Brazilian regulations list a number of potential money-laundering transactions, such as:

     The CVM directed special attention to politically exposed people in January 2008. The CVM Instruction 463 of January 8, 2008 refers to individuals politically exposed who hold or held prominent public positions in Brazil or abroad for the past five years, their relatives and representatives, heads of state and government, politicians occupying high positions, government employees occupying high positions, magistrates or high-level military officials, and leaders of governmental companies or political parties, among others. Financial institutions are required to adopt certain mechanisms in order to (i) identify the final beneficiaries of each transaction, (ii) identify whether these politically exposed persons are involved, (iii) monitor financial business transactions involving politically exposed persons; and (iv) devote special attention to people from countries with which Brazil maintains a high number of business and financial transactions, common borders or ethnic, linguistic or political relations.

     In addition, this CVM regulation also contains special provisions to control and prevent the flow of funds derived from or financing terrorism activities.

     Financial institutions must maintain the secrecy of their banking operations and services provided to their customers. Certain exceptions apply to this obligation, however, such as: the sharing of information on credit history, criminal activity and violation of bank regulations or disclosure of information authorized by interested parties. Bank secrecy may also be breached by court order when necessary for the investigation of any illegal act.

     Government and auditors from the Brazilian Internal Revenue Service may also inspect an institution’s documents, books and financial registry in certain circumstances.

     In October 2008, the Central Bank expanded its rules aiming at controlling financial transactions linked with terrorism, so that operations carried out on behalf of, services provided to or access to funds, other financial assets or economic resources belonging to or directly or indirectly controlled by the following individuals or entities should be immediately reported to the Central Bank: (i) Osama Bin Laden, members of the Al-Qaeda organization, member of the Taliban and other individuals, groups, companies or entities connected with them; (ii) the former government of Iraq or its government agencies, companies or agencies located outside of Iraq, as well as funds or other financial assets or economic funds that might have been withdrawn from Iraq or acquired by Saddam Hussein or by other former Iraqi government senior official and by the closest members of their families, including proprietary entities or those direcitly or indirectly controlled by them or by individuals working for them or under their management; and (iii) individuals that practice or intend to practice acts of terrorism or who take part of facilitates such acts, by entities pertaining or directly or indirectly controlled by such individuals, as well as by individuals and entities acting on their behalf or under their command.

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Change of Independent Accounting Firm

Under Brazilian regulations, all financial institutions must:

     Each independent accounting firm must immediately communicate to the Central Bank any event that may materially adversely affect the relevant financial institution’s status.

     In March 2002, an amendment to the Brazilian Corporate Law gave the members of our Board of Directors veto rights over the appointment or removal of our independent accounting firm. For more information regarding appointment of directors see “Item 10. Additional Information—Memorandum and Articles of Incorporation—Organization—Voting Rights.”

Auditing Requirements

     Because we are a financial institution registered with the domestic stock exchanges, we are obligated to have our financial statements audited every six months in accordance with generally the accounting principles adopted in Brazil. Quarterly financial information filed with the CVM is subject to review by our independent accountants.

     In January 2003, the CVM enacted regulations requiring audited entities to disclose information relating to an independent accounting firm’s non-auditing services whenever such services represent more than 5.0% of the external auditors’ compensation.

     Additionally, the independent auditors must also declare to the audited company’s management that their providing these services does not affect the independence and objectivity that is necessary to external auditing services.

     In May 2003, the CMN enacted new regulations on auditing matters applicable to all Brazilian financial institutions, which were revised in November 2003, January and May 2004 and December 2005. Under these regulations, we are required to appoint a member of our management to be responsible for the follow-up and supervision of compliance with the accounting and auditing requirements set forth in the legislation.

     Pursuant to this regulation, financial institutions which have an adjusted net worth in excess of R$1.0 billion, manage third party assets of at least R$1.0 billion or have an aggregate amount of third party assets in excess of R$5.0 billion are also required to create an audit committee made up of independent members. The number of members, the appointment and removal criteria, the term of office and the responsibilities of the audit committee must be set forth in the institutions’ bylaws. Our audit committee has been fully operational since July 1, 2004. The audit committee is responsible for recommending to management which independent accounting firm to hire, reviewing the financial statements, including the notes thereto, and the auditors’ opinion prior to public release, evaluating the effectiveness of the auditing services provided and internal compliance procedures, assessing management’s compliance with the recommendations made by the independent accounting firm, among other things. Our by-laws were revised in December 2003 to establish the audit committee. In May 2004, our Board of Directors approved its members’ internal regulations and appointed its first composition. In October 2006, CMN enacted stricter requirements to be followed by the members of the Board of Directors. See Item 16D. Exemptions from Listing Standards for Audit Committees.

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     Effective July 1, 2004, we are required to publish a report of the audit committee along with our semi-annual financial statements. Our audit committee’s first report was related to our financial statements of the second semester of 2004.

     In July 2007, CVM enacted a rule requiring publicly-held companies to adopt the international accounting standard, pursuant to rules issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) as of fiscal year ended in 2010. This will represent a change in our accounting practices, since our fiscal statements are currently prepared and disclosed in accordance with the Brazilian and US GAAP.

Asset Management Regulation

     Asset management is regulated by the CMN and the CVM.

     In August 2004, the CVM issued the rule 409/2004 consolidating all previous regulations applicable to fixed income assets funds and variable income mutual funds. Prior to this ruling, fixed income assets funds were regulated by the Central Bank, and variable income mutual funds were regulated by the CVM.

     CVM Rule 409/2004 became effective on November 22, 2004. Since then, all new funds created are subject to its rules, while previously existing funds had until January 31, 2005 to enter into compliance with the new regulation.

     Pursuant to the provisions of the new CVM rule, our investment funds must keep their assets invested in securities and operational assets that are available in the financial and capital markets.

     These securities, operational assets and all other assets that comprise the fund’s portfolio, except for interest in investment funds or in Mercosur, must be registered directly with specific custody deposit accounts opened in the name of the fund. Such accounts must be held within registration and clearance systems authorized by the Central Bank, or within certain custody institutions authorized by the CVM.

     In addition to the limitations provided in each financial investment funds’ charter, financial investment funds are not permitted to have:

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     Funds addressed to qualified investors that require a minimum investment of R$1 million per investor are not subject to limitations regarding concentration of their investments in a single issuer or diversification of invested assets, as long as it is set forth in their organizational corporate documents and the specific parameters to each type of fund below are followed.

     There are no limits when the issuer is the Federal Government. For these limits effects, we consider as the same issuer, its parent company, the companies directly or indirectly controlled thereby, its affiliated companies and shared control companies.

     According to its equity breakdown, the investment funds and the investment funds in quotas are classified as follows:

     Funds for qualified investors that demand a minimum investment of R$1,000,000.00 per investors will not be subject to the concentration limitations per issuer or type of asset (with due regard for the investment parameters per type of fund described above), as long as this is provided for in their bylaws.

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     In addition, CVM rule 409/2004 sets forth that the funds may maintain financial assets traded abroad in their portfolios as follows: (i) for Foreign Debt funds and funds for qualified investors that provide for this possibility, no limit; (ii) for Multimarket funds up to 20% of equity; and (iii) for the remaining funds up to 10% of equity.

Regulation of Brokers and Dealers

     Broker and dealer firms are part of the national financial system and are subject to CMN, Central Bank and CVM regulation and supervision. Brokerage firms must be chartered by the Central Bank, and are the only institutions in Brazil authorized to trade on Brazil’s stock exchanges and mercantile and futures exchanges. Both brokers and dealers may act as underwriters in the public placement of securities and engage in the brokerage of foreign currency in any exchange market.

     Brokers must observe rules of conduct established by the stock exchanges and the BM&F and previously approved by the CVM. They must also select a director responsible for the observance of such rules.

     Broker and dealer firms may not:

     Broker and dealer firms’ employees, managers, partners, controlling and controlled entities may negotiate securities for their own accounts only through the relevant broker and dealer firm.

Regulation of Internet and Electronic Commerce

     The Brazilian Congress has not enacted any specific legislation regulating electronic commerce. Accordingly, electronic commerce remains subject to existing laws and regulation on ordinary commerce and business transactions.

     There are currently several bills dealing with Internet and electronic commerce regulation in the Brazilian congress. The proposed legislation, if enacted, would recognize the legal effect, validity and enforceability of information in the form of electronic messages, allowing parties to enter into an agreement, make an offer or accept one through electronic messages.

     CVM approved new regulations limiting Internet brokerage activities, which may be carried out only by registered companies. Brokers’ web pages must contain detailed information about their systems, fees, security and order processing. They must also contain information about how the market functions generally and the risks involved with each type of investment offered.

     Brokers that carry out transactions over the Internet must guarantee the security and operability of their systems, which must be audited at least on a half-year basis.

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Regulation of Operations in Other Jurisdictions

     We have branches and subsidiaries in several other jurisdictions, such as New York, Buenos Aires, Tokyo, the Cayman Islands, the Bahamas, Hong Kong and Luxembourg. The Central Bank exercises global consolidated supervision over Brazilian financial institutions’ branches, subsidiaries and corporate holdings abroad and the prior approval of the Central Bank is necessary to establish any new branch, subsidiary or representative office. In most cases, we had to obtain governmental approvals from local central banks and monetary authorities in such jurisdictions before commencing business. In all cases, we are subject to supervision by local authorities.

Taxation

CPMF

     Until December 31, 2007, the CPMF was levied at a rate of 0.38% of any checking account entry related to funds kept in Brazil. Despite having been originally instituted as a temporary tax, the term of effectiveness of the CPMF was systematically extended from October 1996 until December 31, 2007. In 2007 there were extensive discussions in the Brazilian National Congress about a Constitutional Amendment proposal that would extend the CPMF again, but the government did not obtain the required number of votes. Therefore, as of January 1, 2008 this tax was no longer levied.

     The CPMF was levied on any debt entry in any checking account held in Brazil, except for under specific circumstances.

Certain transactions, however, were exempt from the CPMF, such as:

     Moreover, from October 1, 2004 until the CPMF was no longer applicable, its rate was reduced to 0% on debit entries in checking accounts for investment deposits, opened and handled exclusively to conduct fixed and variable income financial investments of any nature, including in savings accounts; and on debit entries in special demand deposit accounts held by low income account holders, subject to maximum transaction limits and to other conditions set forth by CMN and the Brazilian Central Bank.

Tax on Financial Transactions

     The Imposto Sobre Operações Financeiras, known as the “IOF,” is a tax on foreign exchange, securities, credit and insurance transactions. The Minister of Finance sets the rate of the IOF subject to a 25.0% ceiling set forth by law. Although the taxpayer is the one conducting the financial operation subject to taxation, the tax is collected by the financial institution involved.

     In January 2008, the Brazilian Government raised the IOF rate on certain operations, to offset losses from the abolishment of the CPMF.

     IOF may be imposed on a variety of exchange transactions, including the conversion of Brazilian currency into any foreign currency. This aims at the payment of dividends and repatriation of capital invested in our ADSs. Even though the general IOF rate on exchange transactions is 0.38%, it is 0% on exchange transactions of interbank nature and in foreign exchange operations carried out by foreign investors for investment in the financial and capital markets pursuant to the regulations of CMN, including in what regards the payment of dividends and interest on shareholders’ equity to foreign investors. The IOF rate was also reduced to 0% on exchange operations of fund entrances in and exits from the country referring to funding conducted as of October 23, 2008 as foreign loans and financings.

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     Presently, the main foreign currency exchange transactions subject to IOF and respective rates are the following:

     The IOF may also be levied on issuances of bonds or securities, including transactions carried out on Brazilian stock, futures or commodities exchanges. The IOF rate with respect to preferred shares and ADSs is currently 0%. The Minister of Finance, however, has the legal authority to increase the rate to a maximum of 1.5% per day of the amount of the taxed transaction, during the period the investor holds the securities, but only to the extent of the gain realized on the transaction and only from the date of its increase or creation.

     The IOF is levied on all types of loan transactions, including overdraft loans, at a rate of 0.0041% per day on the amount of principal. Until November 2008, the rate applicable to loans raised by corporate entities was 0.0082% . In those loan transactions in which the principal amount is not determined prior to the transaction, in addition to the principal, the IOF tax is also levied on interest and other charges at the same rate. In any case, the IOF tax is subject to a maximum rate of 1.5% during one year.

     Additionally, since January 2008 credit operations are subject to IOF at an additional rate of 0.38%, regardless of the transaction term and of whether the borrower is an individual or corporate entity.

     The IOF is levied on insurance transactions at a rate of:

     IOF is also assessed on gains realized in transactions with terms of up to 30 days consisting of the sale, assignment, repurchase or renewal of fixed-income investments or the redemption of shares of financial investment funds, variable income funds or investment pools. For more information on financial investment funds and variable income funds see “—Regulation and Supervision—Asset Management Regulation.” The maximum rate of IOF payable in such cases is 1.0% per day and decreases with the length of the transaction, reaching zero for transactions with maturities of at least 30 days, except that the rate for the following types of transactions is currently 0%:

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Income Tax and Social Contribution on Profits

     Federal taxes that are levied on a company’s income include two components, an income tax known as “IRPJ” and a social contribution tax on net profits, which is known as the “Social Contribution Tax.” The IRPJ is levied at a rate of 15.0% increased by an additional income tax at a rate of 10.0% . Considering the above, the IRPJ is assessed at a combined rate of 25.0% of adjusted net income. The Social Contribution Tax is usually assessed at a rate of 9.0% of adjusted net income. However, since May 2008, financial institutions and affiliated companies are taxed at a rate of 15.0% .

     For further information on our income tax expense, see note 16 to our consolidated financial statements in Item 18.

     Companies are taxed based on their worldwide income rather than on income produced solely in Brazil. As a result, profits, capital gains and other income obtained abroad by Brazilian entities are computed in the determination of their profits. The Brazilian entity is allowed to deduct income tax paid abroad based on the same income (i) according to the terms and conditions of any existing income tax treaty; or (ii) up to the amount of Brazilian income taxes imposed on such income since there is reciprocal treatment between Brazil and the country where the profit or gain is obtained, such as the United States of America. Profits realized by the end of each year by an offshore entity which is a branch, controlled or affiliated to a Brazilian entity are regarded as available to the Brazilian entity and, as a consequence, are subject to the payment of income tax in Brazil.

     The profits or dividends generated and paid by Brazilian entities since January 1, 1996 are not subject to withholding income tax, nor to corporate income tax or individual income tax on the person receiving the dividend either in Brazil or abroad. However, as the payment of dividends is not tax deductible for the corporation distributing them, there is an alternative regime for shareholder compensation called “interest on shareholders’ equity,” which allows corporations to deduct interest paid to shareholders from net profits for tax purposes. This deduction is limited to the product of (i) the variation pro rata die of the long-term interest rate disclosed by the Brazilian government, known as “TJLP”; times (ii) the corporation’s net worth calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in Brazil, and may not exceed the greater of:

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     Distributions of interest on shareholders’ equity to holders of preferred shares, including payments to the depositary bank in respect of preferred shares underlying ADSs, are subject to a Brazilian withholding tax at a rate of 15.0%, except for payments to (i) people who are exempt from tax in Brazil or (ii) people situated in tax havens. In the latter case, payments are subject to income tax at a rate of 25.0% . For more information on the taxation of interest on shareholders’ equity see “Item 10. Additional Information—Taxation—Brazilian Tax Considerations—Distributions of Interest on shareholders’ equity.”

     Accumulated net operating losses of Brazilian companies can be offset with future taxable income during any year up to 30.0% of annual taxable income.

     Gains realized by Brazilian holders in exchange or similar markets on any disposition of preferred shares in Brazil are generally taxed at the following rates:

     Gains earned in all transactions carried out on stock, goods, futures and similar markets, except for day-trades (which remain subject to the withholding tax mentioned above), are subject to a withholding income tax of 0.005% as follows:

     This taxation system was created in order to make it easier for the Brazilian Internal Revenue Service to verify transactions made in the financial and capital markets. Withholding income taxes may be (i) deducted from the income tax levied on net monthly profits; (ii) offset with income tax due in the following months; (iii) offset with the income tax annual declaration of adjustment (if there is any withheld tax accounted for in the balance); or (iv) offset with outstanding withholding income tax due over capital gains from the sale of shares.

     Gains realized on any disposition of preferred shares in Brazil by non-Brazilian holders who reside in a jurisdiction that under Brazilian law is deemed to be a “tax haven” (any country that (i) does not impose income tax, (ii) that imposes income tax at a rate of less than 20.0% or (iii) a country whose corporate law opposes confidentiality regarding the shareholders of corporate entities) are subject to the same rates applicable to Brazilian holders, as described above.

     Gains realized on the disposition of preferred shares in Brazil by non-Brazilian holders who are not resident in a “tax haven” are exempted from Brazilian tax if:

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     Otherwise, the same treatment applicable to Brazilian residents will apply.

     Income tax rate is zero over payment, credit, delivery or remittance of profits from transactions involving Brazilian public bonds acquired as of February 16, 2006, except for bonds subject to resale, in accordance with the rules and conditions established by the CMN. This zero-tax rate is not applicable when the beneficiary is resident or domiciled in a “tax heaven.” This zero-tax rate is also applicable to income of nonresidents that invest in quotas of investment funds exclusively for non-resident investors, which funds portfolio is composed by, at least, 98% of public securities. Brazilian tax laws sets forth that remuneration is any amounts from remuneration of invested capital, including the remuneration resulting from variable income securities, such as interest, premiums, commissions, goodwill, negative goodwill, discount and profit sharing, as well as positive results from investments funds and investment clubs.

     The income tax rate is also zero, under certain conditions, on income from investments in investment funds in equity interests, investment funds in quotas of investment funds in equity interests and investment funds in emerging markets, when such income is paid, credited, delivered or remitted to individual or collective beneficiaries resident or domiciled abroad (except for tax havens), whose investments in Brazil are in compliance with the regulations and conditions established by CMN. In addition, investments will be only subject to this zero-income tax rate in case these investment funds comply with diversification limits and investment rules comprised in CVM regulation, and their portfolio must be comprised of, at least, 67% of shares of joint-stock companies, debentures convertible into shares and subscription bonus.

     The income of Brazilian residents from redemption, sale or amortization of quotas of investments in investment funds in equity interests, investment funds in quotas of investment funds in equity interests and investment funds in emerging markets, including the income resulting from the settlement of the fund, is subject to an income tax rate of 15% on the positive difference between the redemption or sale value and the acquisition cost. Gains from the sale of quotas are treated (i) as net gain, when obtained by individuals in operations carried out on the stock exchange, and by companies in operations carried out inside or outside the stock exchange; and (ii) according to the rules applicable to capital gains in the sale of properties and rights of any nature, when obtained by individuals in operations carried out outside the stock exchange.

     If investment funds do not comply with the diversification limits and investment rules set forth by the CVM, and if their portfolio is not comprised by, at least, 67% of shares of joint-stock companies, debentures convertible into shares and subscription bonus, income of Brazilian residents will be subject to income tax at rates varying from 15% to 22.5% (depending on the term of the investment) over profit distribution by the funds.

     In December 2008, the Brazilian government created the Transition Tax Regime (“RTT”) to neutralize the impact of the new accounting methods and criteria introduced in December 2008, as part of Brazil’s adoption of international accounting rules. The adoption of RTT which, will be in force until the law ruling the tax effects of the new accounting methods and criteria becomes effective, is optional for 2008 and 2009 but mandatory in 2010 fiscal year, including for purposes of determining the social contribution, PIS and COFINS. We have elected to adopt the RTT for fiscal year 2008.

PIS and COFINS

     Two federal taxes are imposed on the gross revenues of corporate entities: PIS and COFINS. Nonetheless, many revenues, such as dividends, equity in earnings of unconsolidated companies, revenues from the sale of fixed assets and export revenues paid in foreign currency are not included in the calculation base for PIS and COFINS. Revenues earned by corporations domiciled in Brazil are subject to PIS and COFINS taxes corresponding to interest on shareholders’ equity credits.

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     Brazilian laws authorize certain adjustments to the calculation base of those taxes depending on the business segment and on other aspects.

     Between 2002 and 2003, the Brazilian government implemented a non-cumulative collection system in respect of PIS and COFINS, allowing taxpayers to determine their calculation basis by discounting credits that originate from certain transactions. In order to offset these discounts, the rates of both PIS and COFINS were substantially increased. Pursuant to the changes made to PIS and COFINS, as of May 2004, both taxes are applicable to goods and services imported from foreign countries by a company located in Brazil.

     As of August 2004, PIS and COFINS rates were eliminated for financial income earned by companies subject to the non-cumulative applicability of these taxes. However, taxes on payments of interest on shareholders’ equity were not eliminated.

     Certain economic activities are expressly excluded from the non-cumulative collection system of both PIS and COFINS. This is the case for financial institutions, which remained subject to PIS and COFINS according to the “cumulative” method, which does not allow any credits to be discounted.

     PIS is charged based on the total revenue generated by entities and is charged at a rate of 0.65% in the case of financial institutions.

     Before February 1, 1999, we were not a COFINS taxpayer. On February 1, 1999, COFINS was imposed on our gross revenues at a rate of 3.0% . After September 1, 2003, this tax rate was increased to 4.0% for financial institutions. The calculation base for COFINS is the same as that for PIS. Exclusively in 1999, we were authorized by Central Bank to offset up to one-third of amounts we paid as COFINS against the amounts we should pay as social contribution on taxable profit.

Leasing Regulation

     The basic legal framework governing leasing transactions is established by Law No. 6,099 of September 12, 1974, as amended, which we call the “Leasing Law,” and the regulations issued thereunder by the CMN. The Leasing Law sets forth general guidelines for the incorporation of, and the activities permitted to be performed by, leasing companies. The CMN, in its capacity as regulator of the financial system, provides the details of the provisions set forth in the Leasing Law and supervises and controls the transactions conducted by leasing companies. The laws and regulations issued by the Central Bank with respect to financial institutions in general, such as reporting requirements, capital adequacy and leverage, asset composition limits and treatment of doubtful loans, are also applicable to leasing companies to the extent applicable.

Insurance Regulation

     The main rule that regulates the Brazilian insurance system is the Executive Decree No. 73 of November 21, 1966, as amended. Such Rule has created two regulatory agencies, the National Private Insurance Council, which we call the “CNSP,” and SUSEP. SUSEP is responsible for implementing and overseeing the CNSP’s policies and ensuring compliance with such policies by insurance companies, insurance brokers and insured people. Insurance companies require government approval to operate, as well as specific approval from SUSEP to offer each of their products. Insurance companies may subscribe policies only through qualified brokers.

     Insurance companies must set aside technical reserves in accordance with CNSP criteria. The investments backing up the technical reserves must be diversified and meet certain liquidity, solvency and security criteria. Insurance companies may invest a substantial portion of their assets in securities. As a result, insurance companies are major investors in the Brazilian financial markets and are subject to a series of rules and conditions imposed by the CMN regarding the investment of technical reserves.

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Insurance companies are prohibited from:

     Insurance companies must operate within certain retention limits approved by SUSEP pursuant to rules established by the CNSP. The rules take into account the economic and financial situation of the insurance companies, the technical conditions of their respective portfolios and the results of their operations with IRB, a quasi-public corporation controlled by the Brazilian government.

     On January 16, 2007, Complementary Law No. 126 created a new policy for reinsurance (whereby underwriters obtain secondary insurance for the risks that they are insuring), retro-assignments and intermediation in Brazil. In practical terms, such law resulted in the end of the IRB monopoly over reinsurance and retro-assignment markets. Furthermore, certain regulatory duties and activities originally attributed to IRB were transferred to CNSP and SUSEP.

     Under Complementary Law No. 126, local insurance or reinsurance companies must first offer to assign their risks to local reinsurance companies when contracting reinsurance or retro-assignment under the following risk percentages: (i) 60% in the first three years as of January 16, 2007; and (ii) 40% in the subsequent years. Exercise of the aforementioned right is yet to be defined by the CNSP and SUSEP.

     The new law also establishes more severe restrictions on the risk assignment to foreign reinsurance companies and on the contracting of insurance abroad.

     The insurance companies must reinsure the amounts exceeding the applicable technical limit on liabilities.

     Insurance companies must file unaudited monthly and audited quarterly, semiannual and annual reports with SUSEP.

     Insurance companies are exempt from ordinary financial liquidation procedures in case of bankruptcy and instead follow a special procedure administered by SUSEP. Financial liquidation may be either voluntary or compulsory. The Minister of Finance institutes compulsory dissolutions of insurance companies.

     As was already the case within the scope of entities subject to CMN, on December 2008 SUSEP promulgated rules regarding specific internal controls for preventing and fighting money laundering crimes. These rules include a series of provisions that address the communication of proposals for operations with politically exposed individuals and restraints on terrorism financing activities.

     There is currently no restriction on foreign investment in insurance companies.

Health Insurance

     Private health insurance and health plans are currently regulated by Law No. 9,656, of July 4, 1998, as amended, which we refer to as the “Health Insurance Law,” which determines the general provisions applicable to health insurance companies and the general terms and conditions of agreements entered into between health insurance companies and their customers. The Health Insurance Law establishes, among other things:

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     The ANS is responsible for regulating and supervising supplemental health services provided by health insurance companies pursuant to directives set forth by the Conselho de Saúde Suplementar (the Supplemental Health Council).

     Until 2002, SUSEP had authority over insurance companies, which were authorized to offer private pension plans on health assistance. Since 2002, pursuant to ANS regulations and supervision, only operators of private health assistance plans may offer such plans. We created Bradesco Saúde in 1999 to fulfill this requirement.

Private Pension Plans

     Open pension plans are subject, for purposes of inspection and control, to the authority of the CNSP and the SUSEP, which are under the regulatory authority of the Ministry of Finance. The CMN, CVM and Central Bank may also issue regulations pertinent to private pension plans, particularly with respect to the assets guaranteeing the technical reserves.

     Private pension entities must set aside reserves and technical provisions as collateral for their liabilities.

     Open pension plans and insurance companies are allowed to create, trade and operate investment funds with segregated assets since January 1, 2006. Notwithstanding the above, certain provisions of law No. 11,196 of November 21, 2005 will only become effective upon its regulation by SUSEP and CVM. For more information, see “—Asset Management Regulation”.

SELECTED STATISTICAL INFORMATION

     We have included the following information for analytical purposes. You should read this information in conjunction with “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” and our consolidated financial statements in Item 18.

Average Balance Sheet and Interest Rate Data

     The following table presents the average balances of our interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, other assets and liabilities accounts, the related interest income and expense amounts and the average real yield/rate for each period. We calculated the average balances using the month-end book balances, which include the related allocated interest. These average balances represent our operations.

     We show liabilities in two categories: local and foreign currencies. Local currency balances represent liabilities expressed in reais, while foreign currency balances represent liabilities denominated in foreign currencies, primarily the U.S. dollar. We did not break out asset balances into domestic and international currencies as substantially all of our assets are denominated in reais.

     We excluded non-performing loans from “Loans” in determining average assets and liabilities, and classified them as non-interest-earning assets. Cash received on non-performing loans during the period are included in interest income on loans. We do not consider these amounts significant.

     We do not present interest income on a tax-equivalent basis, as Brazilian tax law does not currently provide for tax exemptions for interest earned on investment securities.


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     Additionally, fees received from various loan commitments are included in interest income on loans. We do not consider these amounts significant.

    December 31 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
            Average            Average            Average 
                   
    Average        yield/   Average        yield/   Average        yield/
                   
    balance    Interest    Interest (a)   balance    Interest    Interest (a)   balance    Interest    Interest (a)
                   
Interest-earning assets (1):    (R$ in millions, except %)
Loans    R$88,044    R$20,977    23.8%    R$105,470    R$22,608    21.4%    R$146,404    R$33,662    23.0% 
Federal funds sold and securities                                     
purchased under agreements to resell    13,378    2,177    16.3    33,299    3,429    10.3    46,893    6,466    13.8 
Trading assets    41,999    5,705    13.6    52.787    5,677    10.8    72,789    7,685    10.6 
Available-for-sale securities (2)   15,980    2,490    15.6    21,760    2,843    13.1    24,727    3,248    13.1 
Held to maturity securities    4,122    324    7.9    2,762    279    10.1    3,458    509    14.7 
Interest-bearing deposits in other banks    11,945    541    4.5    7,635    429    5.6    8,360    706    8.4 
Other interest-earning assets:                                     
Central Bank compulsory deposits    16,251    1,998    12.3    18,858    1,207    6.4    24,590    1,489    6.1 
Other assets    886    59    6.7    716    37    5.2    648    38    5.9 
                   
 
Total interest-earning assets    192,605    34,271    17.8    243,287    36,509    15.0    327,869    53,803    16.4 
                   
 
Non-interest-earning assets (3):                                     
Cash and due from bank    3,895        5,006        6,193     
Central Bank compulsory deposits    5,298        6,868        7,338     
Available-for-sale securities    2,266        2,472        2,472     
Non-performing loans    3,004        5,576        4,312     
Allowance for loan losses    (5,832)       (7,114)       (8,726)    
Equity investees and other investments    772        518        875     
Premises and equipment    2,445        2,710        3,066     
Goodwill    500        893        1,056     
Intangible assets    1,577        1,594        3,057     
Others    21,368        27,646        29,034     
                   
 
Total non-interest-earning assets    35,293        46,169        48,677     
                   
 
Total assets    R$227,898    R$34,271    15.0%    R$289,456    R$36,509    12.6%    R$376,546    R$53,803    14.3% 
                     


    December 31 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
            Average            Average            Average 
                   
    Average        yield/   Average        yield/   Average        yield/
                   
    balance    Interest    Interest (a)   balance    Interest    Interest (a)   balance    Interest    Interest (a)
                   
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Interest-bearing liabilities:                                     
 Deposits from banks:                                     
Domestic (3)   R$143    R$19    13.3%    R$223    R$33    14.8%    R$404    R$80    19.8% 
                   
 Total    143    19    13.3    223    33    14.8    404    80    19.8 
 
 Savings deposits:                                     
   Domestic (3)   25,590    1,909    7.5    28,958    2,002    6.9    34,538    2,442    7.1 
                   
 Total    25,590    1,909    7.5    28,958    2,002    6.9    34,538    2,442    7.1 
 
 Time deposits:                                     
   Domestic(3)   31,203    4,149    13.3    32,322    3,405    10.5    58,843    6,959    11.8 
   International(4)   3,258    152    4.7    2,066    119    5.8    3,390    155    4.6 
                   
 Total    34,461    4,301    12.5    34,388    3,524    10.2    62,233    7,114    11.4 
 
Federal funds purchased and securities                                     
sold under agreements to repurchase    27,821    3,762    13.5    51,384    5,540    10.8    74,139    9,169    12.4 
 
 Borrowings:                                     
   Short-term:                                     
   International (4)   5,741    54    0.9    6,892    (727)   (10.5)   10,252    4,899    47.8 
                   
 Total    5,741    54    0.9    6,892    (727)   (10.5)   10,252    4,899    47.8 
 
 Long-term:                                     
   Domestic (3)   20,700    2,649    12.8    26,715    2,677    10.0    32,712    3,408    10.4 
   International (4)   6,589    175    2.7    5,590    (311)   (5.6)   7,733    1,320    17.1 
                   
 Total    27,289    2,824    10.3    32,305    2,366    7.3    40,445    4,728    11.7 
                   
 
Total interest-bearing liabilities    121,045    12,869    10.6    154,150    12,738    8.3    222,011    28,432    12.8 
                   
 
Non-interest-bearing liabilities:                                     
 Demand deposits:                                     
   Domestic (3)   17,210        22,185        25,991     
   International (4)   222        126        314     
                   
Total    17,432    -    -    22,311    -    -    26,305    -    - 
                   
 
Other non-interest-bearing liabilities    67,989    -    -    85,091    -    -    93,862    -    - 
                   
 
Total non-interest-bearing liabilities    85,421    -    -    107,402    -    -    120,167    -    - 
                   
 
Total liabilities    206,466    12,869    6.2    261,552    12,738    4.9    342,178    28,432    8.3 
                   
 
Shareholders’ equity    21,323    -    -    27,731    -    -    33,180    -    - 
Minority interest on consolidated                                     
subsidiaries     109    -    -     173    -    -    1,188    -    - 
                   
 
Total liabilities and shareholders’                                     
equity    R$227,898    R$12,869    5.6%    R$289,456    R$12,738    4.4%    R$376,546    28,432    7.6% 
                   

____________________________
(1)      Primarily denominated in reais.
(2)      Calculated using the historical average of amortized cost. If calculated using the book value, the average yield/rate amounts would be 12.4% in 2008, 12.5% in 2007 and 13.1% in 2006.
(3)      Denominated in reais.
(4)      Denominated in foreign currency, primarily U.S. dollars.
 

107


Changes in Interest Income and Expenses—Volume and Rate Analysis

     The following table shows the effects of changes in our interest income and expense arising from changes in average volumes and average yield/rates for the periods presented. We calculated the changes in volume and interest rate based on the evaluation of average balances during the period and changes in average interest rates on interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities. We allocated the net change from the combined effects of volume and rate proportionately to the average volume and rate, in absolute terms, without considering positive and negative effects.

    December 31 
   
    2007/2006    2008/2007 
     
    Increase (decrease) due to changes in: 
   
    Average    Average     Net    Average    Average    Net 
    volume    yield/rate (a)   change    volume    yield/rate (a)   change 
             
    (R$ in millions)
Interest-earning assets:                         
 Loans    R$3,875    R$(2,244)   R$1,631    R$9,311    R$1,743    R$11,054 
 Federal funds sold and securities purchased under                         
     agreements to resell under agreements to                         
     resell    2,287    (1,035)   1,252    1,659    1,378    3,037 
 Trading assets    1,297    (1,325)   (28)   2,114    (106)   2,008 
 Available-for-sale securities    800    (447)   353    390    15    405 
 Held to maturity securities    (123)   78    (45)   82    148    230 
 Interest-bearing deposits in other banks    (223)   111    (112)   44    233    277 
 Central Bank compulsory deposits    282    (1,073)   (791)   350    (68)   282 
 Other assets    (10)   (12)   (22)   (4)    
             
 
Total interest-earning assets    8,185    (5,947)   2,238    13,946    3,348    17,294 
             
 
Interest-bearing liabilities:                         
 Deposits from banks                         
     Domestic    12      14    33    14    47 
             
 
 Total    12    2    14    33    14    47 
             
 
 Savings deposits:                         
     Domestic    239    (146)   93    394    46    440 
             
 Total    239    (146)   93    394    46    440 
             
 
 Time deposits:                         
     Domestic    144    (888)   (744)   3,092    462    3,554 
     International    (64)   31    (33)   64    (28)   36 
             
 Total    80    (857)   (777)   3,156    434    3,590 
             
 
 Federal funds purchased and securities sold                         
 under agreements to repurchase    2,665    (887)   1,778    2,724    905    3,629 
 
 Borrowings:                         
     Short-term:                         
        International 
    (790)   (781)   (196)   5,822    5,626 
             
 Total    9    (790)   (781)   (196)   5,822    5,626 
             
 
 Long- term:                         
     Domestic    674    (646)   28    621    110    731 
     International    (23)   (463)   (486)   (77)   1,708    1,631 
             
 Total    651    (1,109)   (458)   544    1,818    2,362 
             
 
Total interest-bearing liabilities    R$3,656    R$(3,787)   R$(131)   R$6,655    R$9,039    R$15,694 
             


108


Net Interest Margin and Spread

     The following table shows the average balance of our interest-earning assets, interest-bearing liabilities and net interest income, and compares the net interest margin and net interest spread for the periods indicated:

    December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
   
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Average balance of interest-earning assets    R$192,605    R$243,287    R$327,869 
Average balance of interest-bearing liabilities    121,045    154,150    222,011 
Net interest income (1)   R$21,402    R$23,771    R$25,371 
Interest rate on the average balance of interest-earning assets    17.8%    15.0%    16.4% 
Interest rate on the average balance of interest-bearing liabilities    10.6    8.3    12.8 
Net yield on interest–earning assets (2)   7.2    6.7    3.6 
Net interest margin (3)   11.1%    9.8%    7.7% 
             

__________________________
(1)      Total interest income less total interest expenses
(2)      Difference between the yield on the rates of the average interest-earning assets and the rate of the average interest-bearing liabilities.
(3)      Net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets.
 

109


Return on Equity and Assets

     The table below shows selected financial indices for the periods indicated:

    December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
   
    (R$ in millions, except % and per share information)
         
Net income    R$6,462    R$7,908    R$7,018 
Average total assets    227,898    289,456    376,546 
Average shareholders’ equity    R$21,323    R$27,731    R$33,180 
Net income as a percentage of average total assets    2.8%                               2.7%    1.9% 
Net income as a percentage of average shareholders’ equity    30.3    28.5    21.2 
Average shareholders’ equity as a percentage of average total assets    9.4%                               9.6%    8.8% 
Dividends payout ratio per class of shares (1)   0.33    0.36    0.37 

__________________________
(1)      Total declared dividends per share divided by net income.
 

Securities Portfolio

     The table below shows our portfolio of trading assets, available-for-sale securities and held to maturity securities as of the dates indicated. The amounts below exclude our equity investees. For additional information on our equity investees and other investments, see note 9 to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 18. The amounts also exclude our compulsory holdings of Brazilian government securities, as required by the Central Bank. For more information on our compulsory holdings, see note 3 to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 18. We state trading assets and available-for-sale securities at market value. See notes 2(e), 2(f), 2(g), 2(h), 4, 5 and 6 to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 18 for a further description of our treatment of trading assets and available-for-sale securities and held to maturity securities.

    December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
    (R$ in millions, except %)
   
Trading securities:             
 
 Mutual funds    R$28,549    R$36,532    R$41,042 
 Brazilian government securities    31,150    16,741    35,727 
 Corporate debt securities    1,040    1,846    5,950 
 Brazilian sovereign bonds    55    36    43 
 Derivative financial instruments    584    1,134    2,387 
 Bank debt securities    1,263    956    4,490 
 Foreign government securities    94    1,901    1,756 
 Public company shares            454 
       
Total    R$62,735    R$59,146    R$91,849 
       
 
 Trading securities as a percentage of total assets    24.2%    17.7%    21.1% 
 
Available-for-sale securities:             
 Brazilian government securities    R$16,712    R$23,190    R$20,450 
 Brazilian sovereign bonds    1,549    438    1,777 
 Corporate debt securities    2,130    1,364    4,105 
 Bank debt securities    54    80    438 
 Foreign government securities       
 Marketable equity securities    3,425    4,581    3,185 
       
Total    R$23,879    R$29,653    R$29,955 
       
 
 Available-for-sale securities as a percentage of total assets    9.2%    8.9%    6.9% 
 
Held to maturity securities:             
 Brazilian government securities    2,188    2,643    2,961 
 Brazilian sovereign bonds (1)   1,040    288    1,073 
 Foreign government securities    37    50    63 
       
 
Total    R$3,265    R$2,981    R$4,097 
       
 Held to maturity securities as a percentage of total assets    1.3%    0.9%    0.9% 

___________________________
(1)      See note 6 to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 18.
 

110


Maturity Distribution

     The following table sets forth the maturity dates and weighted average yield, as of December 31, 2008, of our trading securities, available-for-sale securities and held to maturity securities.

     As of December 31, 2008, we held no tax-exempt securities in our portfolio.

    December 31, 2008 
   
    Due in 
1 year or less 
  Due after 1 year to 
5 years
 
  Due after 5 years to 
10 years 
  Due after 10 years     Unspecified 
Maturity
 
  Total 
             
    Average   yield    Average   yield    Average   yield    Average   yield    Average   yield    Average   yield 
             
    (In millions of R$, except percentages)
Trading securities(1):                                                 
   Brazilian government securities    23,267    12.4 %    11,328    10.2%    1,129    9.2%    3     7.4 %    -     -    35,727    11.6% 
     Fixed rate    6,385    12.5    548    12.2    36     13.2       -       -    6,969    12.5 
     Floating rate    16,882    12.4    10,780    10.1    1,093    9.1      7.4       -    28,758    11.4 
   Brazilian sovereign bonds    -    -    43    8.9    -    -    -     -    -     -    43    8.9 
     Floating rate – bills of exchange        43    8.9    -    -    -     -    -     -    43    8.9 
   Foreign government securities    1,756    8.4        -    -       -       -    1,756    8.4 
 
 
     Floating rate – bills of exchange    1,756    8.4      -    -         -       -    1,756    8.4 
 
 
   Bonds issued by non–financial institutions    4,451    12.0    934    12.2    520     12.0    45    8.9    -     -    5,950    12.0 
     Floating rate – bills of exchange    56    11.2    34    8.7    20    6.4    15    8.3       -    125    9.7 
 
 
     Floating rate    4,395    12.0    900    12.4    500     12.3    30    9.2       -    5,825    12.6 
 
 
   Financial institutions bonds    21    14.3    4,468    12.7    1    2.4       -       -    4,490    12.8 
     Floating rate – bills of exchange    21    14.3      20.0      2.4       -       -    25    14.5 
 
 
     Floating rate        4,465    12.4        -     -       -    4,465    12.4 
 
 
   Mutual Funds (2)   -    -    -    -    -         -    41,042     -    41,042    - 
 
 
     Floating rate            -           -     -    41,042     -    41,042   
   Derivative financial instruments    2,010    -    334    -    43         -       -    2,387    - 
     Floating rate – bills of exchange    166        -           -       -    166   
     Floating rate    1,844      334    -    43         -       -    2,221   
     Marketable equity securities                   -    454     -    454   
     Floating rate                   -    454     -    454   
Total trading securities                                                 
   Brazilian government securities    31,505    -    17,107    -    1,693    -    48     -    41,496     -    91,849    - 
 
 Available–for–sale securities at market value (2):                                                 
   Brazilian government securities    1,026    8.7    1,927    8.2    5,468    7.9    12,029     7.3    -     -    20,450    7.6 
     Fixed rate    78    12.8      -    1,894    7.1       -       -    1,972    7.3 
     Floating rate    948    8.4    1,927    8.2    3,574    8.4    12,029    7.3       -    18,478    7.6 
   Brazilian sovereign bonds    2    7.2    431    10.2    45    9.9    1,299    12.0     -     -    1,777    11.5 
     Floating rate – bills of exchange      7.2    431    10.2    45    9.9    1,299    12.0       -    1,777    11.5 
   Bonds issued by non–financial institutions    625    11.6    1,580    11.3    1,087    8.3    813     9.8    -     -    4,105    10.3 
     Floating rate    531    12.0    1,180    12.2    319     11.2    693    10.0       -    2,723    11.5 
     Floating rate – bills of exchange    94    9.4    400    8.7    768    7.1    120     8.3     -     -    1,382    7.8 
   Financial institutions bonds    25    2.0    2    4.9    340    6.5    71    9.7     -     -    438    6.6 
     Floating rate – bills of exchange    25    2.0      4.9    340    6.5    16    5.5       -    383    6.2 
     Floating rate          -        55    10.9       -    55    10.9 
Marketable equity securities (2)   -    -    -    -    -    -    -     -    3,185     -    3,185    - 
     Floating rate          -           -    3,185      3,185   
Total available–for–sale securities    1,678    -    3,940    -    6,940    -    14,212     -    3,185     -    29,955   
 
Total held to maturity securities, at amortized                                                 
cost                                                 
   Brazilian government securities    -    -    116    8.5    174    8.2    2,671     6.9     -     -    2,961    7.1 
     Floating rate        116    8.5    174    8.2    2,671     6.9       -    2,961    7.1 
   Brazilian sovereign bonds    -    -    989    10.1    84    8.0    -     -    -     -    1,073    9.9 
     Floating rate – bills of exchange     -      989    10.1    84    8.0       -       -    1,073    9.9 
   Foreign government securities    63    -     -    -     -    -    -     -    -     -    63    - 
     Floating rate – bills of exchange    63        -     -         -       -    63   
Total held to maturity securities    63    -    1,105    -    258    -    2,671    -     -    -    4,097    - 
 
Overall Total    33,246    -    22,152    -    8,891    -    16,931    -     44,681    -    125,901    - 
                                                 

___________________________
(1)   At market value. 
(2)   Investments in mutual funds are redeemable at any time in accordance with our liquidity needs Average yield is not stated, as future yields are not quantifiable These trading securities were excluded from the total yield computation. 
(*)   The figures above are not adjusted to the exchange rate variation. 

111




     The following table shows our securities portfolio by currency as of the dates indicated:

    At fair value    Amortized cost     
       
            Held-to-maturity     
    Trading    Available-for-sale    securities    Total 
         
    (R$ in million)
December 31, 2008:                 
     Indexed to reais    R$89,734    R$26,413    R$2,961    R$118,852 
     Denominated in foreign currency (1)   2,115    3,542    1,136    7,049 
December 31, 2007:                 
     Indexed to reais    R$56,241    R$28,104    R$2,643    R$86,988 
     Denominated in foreign currency (1)   2,905    1,549    338    4,792 
December 31, 2006:                 
     Indexed to reais    R$60,964    R$21,144    R$2,188    R$84,296 
     Indexed to foreign currency (1)   1,254        1,254 
     Denominated in foreign currency (1)   517    2,735    1,077    4,329 

________________________
(1)      Predominantly U.S. dollars.
 

Central Bank Compulsory Deposits

     We are required to either maintain deposits with the Central Bank, or purchase and keep Brazilian government securities as compulsory deposits.

     The following table sets forth the amounts of these deposits as of the dates indicated:

    December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
        % of total        % of total        % of total 
        compulsory        compulsory        compulsory 
    R$    deposits    R$    deposits    R$    deposits 
             
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Total deposits:                         
Non-interest earning (1)   R$6,446    27.5%    R$8,919    28.0%    R$5,591    21.2% 
Interest-earning (2)   17,015    72.5    22,894    72.0    20,793    78.8 
             
 
Total    R$23,461    100.0%    R$31,813    100.0%    R$26,384    100.0% 
             

__________________________
(1)      Primarily demand deposits
(2)      Primarily time and savings deposits
 

112


Credit Operations

     The following table summarizes our outstanding loans by category of transaction. Substantially all of our loans are with borrowers domiciled in Brazil and are denominated in reais. The majority of our loans are denominated in reais and indexed to fixed or variable interest rates. A smaller portion of them are denominated in or indexed to the U.S. dollar and subject to fixed interest rates.

    December 31, 
   
    2004    2005             2006    2007    2008 
           
    (R$ in millions)
Type of credit operations                     
Commercial                     
   Industrial and others    R$23,343    R$28,690    R$32,604    R$44,380    R$62,216 
   Import financing    1,242    1,100    1,465    2,179    3,350 
   Export financing    8,181    10,067    12,934    15,342    24,130 
Leasing    1,626    2,491    3,842    8,097    20,096 
Construction    449    523    519    1,634    3,134 
Individuals                     
   Overdraft    1,301    1,572    1,263    1,881    2,409 
   Real estate    921    832    1,326    1,571    2,174 
   Financing (1)   15,305    25,187    28,828    38,791    34,325 
   Credit card    1,289    1,830    2,652    2,330    2,501 
Rural credit    6,034    6,369    7,399    9,032    10,459 
Foreign currency loans    1,588    1,900    1,546    2,529    2,769 
Public Sector    15    49    62    94    94 
Non-performing loans    2,206    2,701    4,284    5,277    7,178 
Allowance for loan losses    (4,063)   (4,964)   (6,552)   (7,769)   (10,318)
           
 
Loans, net    R$59,437    R$78,347    R$92,172    R$125,368    R$164,517 
           

___________________________
(1)      Constituted primarily by loans for the acquisition of vehicles and direct consumer financing.
 

     The types of credit operations presented above are as follows:

     Commercial – commercial loans include loans to corporate customers, including small businesses, as well as financing imports for corporate customers. We also provide advances to corporate exporters under trade exchange contracts, which are typically short- and medium-term loans;

     Construction – real estate construction financing consists primarily of mortgage loans to construction companies, which generally have medium-term maturities;

     Leasing – leasing contracts consist primarily of leases of equipment and automobiles to both corporate and individual borrowers;

     Individuals – loans to individuals include mortgage loans to individuals for the purchase of their own residences, which generally have long-term maturities, credit cards and lines of credit provided to individuals under pre-approved credit limits as a result of overdrafts on their deposit accounts. We offer individuals personal loans for various other purposes, classified as “financing,” which consist of loans for the acquisition of vehicles and direct consumer financing;.

     Rural credit – rural credit consists of loans to borrowers who operate in rural businesses, including farming, production, livestock and reforestation;

     Foreign currency loans – foreign currency loans are on-lending financing raised by Brazilian companies that are indexed to U.S. dollar and are subject to foreign exchange rate variation and accrued interests;

113


     Public sector – public sector credit operations are loans to Brazilian federal, state and municipal governments or agencies;

     Non-performing loans – we classify all loans that are sixty days or more overdue as non-performing once the credits are classified as non-performing loans we stop accruing interest over them;

     Impairment – clients with significant loans whose profile indicates that they may have difficulty making their payments, or that their credit rating has declined, presenting probable losses for us. These loans are classified as “impaired” and are subject to review in accordance with SFAS 114, “Accounting for Impairment of a Loan by a Creditor,” as amended by SFAS 118.

     We estimate the value of impaired loans based on:

     Through the allowance for loan losses we establish a valuation allowance for the difference between the carrying value of the impaired loan and its estimated value, as determined above. We periodically adjust the allowance for loan losses based on an analysis of the loan portfolio.

     We provision up to 100.0% of the outstanding amount of those loans, which are classified as “non performing” instead of impaired. We provision these sums up to 180 days before payments under such loans become due depending on the credit rating of the debtor.

     Homogeneous loans with small outstanding balances, such as overdraft loans, credit cards, residential mortgages and consumer credit, are considered in the aggregate for the purpose of evaluating the risk of default based on our prior experiences with default, current economic conditions, client profiles and internal risk classification.

Charge-offs

     Loans are charged off when they are between 180 and 360 days overdue, depending on their initial risk classification. Generally, the charge-off takes place after 360 days. However, the charge-off might be postponed for longer-term loans (that will mature after 36 months), until they are up to 540 days overdue.

     We generally carry overdue loans as non-performing loans before charging them off. The allowance for loan losses related to any loan remains on our books until the loan is charged off.

     There were no changes made to our loan classification system. For more information on our categorization of loans, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—Regulation and Supervision—Bank Regulations—Treatment of Overdue Debts” and “—Classification of Loan Operations Portfolio.”

114


Maturities and Interest Rates of Loans

     The following tables show the distribution of maturities of our loans by type, as well as the composition of our loan portfolio by interest rate and maturity as of the dates indicated:

    December 31, 2008
   
    Due                                Allowance     
    within 30    Due in 31    Due in 91    Due in                    for Losses     
    days or    to 90    to 180    181 to    Due in 1    Due after    No stated    Total loans,    in loan     
    less    days    days    360 days   to 3 years   3 years   maturity (1)   gross    operations     Total 
                     
Type of loan:    (R$ in millions)
Commercial:                                         
   Industrial and others    R$13,725    R$13,163    R$6,111    R$7,087    R$13,866    R$7,660    R$2,258    R$63,870    R$(3,294)   R$60,576 
   Import financing    808    1,024    766    436    283    33    11    3,361    (15)   3,346 
   Export financing    2,136    3,081    4,598    5,529    4,733    4,053    114    24,244    (446)   23,798 
Construction    17    31    89    327    1,941    729    16    3,150    (40)   3,110 
Leasing    749    1,379    2,037    3,693    11,454    758    467    20,537    (641)   19,896 
Individuals:                                         
   Overdraft    2,136              615    2,751    (302)   2,449 
   Real estate    25    43    62    125    450    1,460    39    2,204    (252)   1,952 
   Financing (2)   3,206    4,615    5,207    7,495    11,777    1,769    3,420    37,489    (4,088)   33,401 
   Credit cards                3,645    3,645    (964)   2,681 
Rural credit    432    779    1,769    2,697    1,830    2,893    320    10,720    (271)   10,449 
Foreign currency loans    289    245    266    437    781    749      2,770    (5)   2,765 
Public Sector            28    51      94      94 
                     
 
Total    R$23,525   R$24,362   R$20,909   R$27,833   R$47,143   R$20,155   R$10,908   R$174,835   R$(10,318)   R$164,517 
                     

___________________________
(1)      Primarily composed of non-performing credit cards and loans.
(2)      Primarily composed of loans for the acquisition of vehicles and direct consumer financing.
 
    December 31, 2008
   
    Due within                             
    30 days or    Due in 31    Due in 91    Due in 181       Due in    Due after 3    No stated    Total loans, 
    less    to 90 days    to 180 days    to 360 days    1 to 3 years       years    maturity    gross 
                 
                (R$ in millions)            
Types of loans to                                 
customer by maturity                                 
 Floating or adjustable                                 
 rates(1)   R$7,585    R$5,149    R$8,184    R$11,457    R$14,815    R$13,590    R$7,178    R$67,958 
 Fixed rates    15,940    19,213    12,725    16,376    32,328    6,565    3,730    106,877 
                 
 
Total    R$23,525    R$24,362    R$20,909    R$27,833    R$47,143    R$20,155    R$10,908    R$174,835 
                 

________________________
(1)      Includes non-performing loans.
 

Credit Approval Process

     For a description of our credit approval process, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—History and Development of the Company—Risk Management—Credit.”

Indexation

     The majority of our loan portfolio is denominated in reais. However, a portion of our loan portfolio is indexed or denominated to foreign currencies, predominantly the U.S. dollar. Our loans indexed and denominated to the U.S. dollar consist of on lending of Eurobond and export and import financing, and represented 14.8%, 13.2% and 15.6% of our loan portfolio as of December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively. In many cases our clients hold derivative instruments to minimize exchange rate variation risk.

115


Non-performing Loans and Allowance for Loan Losses

     The following table presents a summary of our non-performing loans (comprised entirely of non-accrual loans) together with certain asset quality ratios, at the dates indicated. We aggregate small balance of homogeneous loans, such as overdrafts, consumer installment loans and credit card financing, for the purpose of measuring impairment. We assess larger balance loans based on the risk characteristics of each individual borrower. We do not have any material restructured loans.

     We classify all loans overdue for 60 days or more as non-performing. Once loans are classified as non-performing they no longer accrue interest.

    December 31, 
   
    2004    2005    2006    2007    2008 
           
     (R$ in millions, except %)
Non-performing loans    R$2,206    R$2,701    R$4,284    R$5,277    R$7,178 
Foreclosed assets, net of reserves    229    166    161    195    327 
           
Total non-performing loans and                     
foreclosed assets    2,435    2,867    4,445    5,472    7,505 
           
 
Allowance for loan losses    4,063    4,964    6,552    7,769    10,318 
Total loans    R$63,500    R$83,311    R$98,724    R$133,137    R$174,835 
 
Non-performing loans as a percentage of total loans    3.5%    3.2%    4.3%    4.0%    4.1% 
Non-performing loans and foreclosed assets as a percentage of total loans    3.8    3.4    4.5    4.1    4.3 
Allowance for loan losses as a percentage of total loans    6.4    6.0    6.6    5.8    5.9 
Allowance for loan losses as a percentage of non-performing loans    184.2    183.8    152.9    147.2    143.7 
Allowance for loan losses as a percentage of non-performing loans and foreclosed assets    166.9    173.1    147.4    142.0    137.5 
Net charge-offs for the period as a percentage of the average balance of loans (including non-performing loans)   2.1%    1.3%    2.4%    3.1%    2.7% 

     We do not have a significant amount of foreign loans. The majority of our assets are denominated in reais.

Outstanding Foreign Loans

     The aggregate amount of our outstanding cross-border commercial loans that are denominated in foreign currencies are mainly raised in U.S. dollars by subsidiaries of Brazilian companies through our Cayman branch. These loans represented on average approximately 3.0% of our total assets in the last three years. We believe that there are no significant cross-border risks on these transactions, since a substantial part of the related credit risk is guaranteed by the parent company in Brazil of each subsidiary. The remainder of our outstanding cross-border transactions mainly includes investments in securities, which represented on average approximately 2.0% of our total assets in the last 3 years.

     Additionally, our deposit base is primarily comprised of Brazilian residents and the amount of deposits in our branches outside Brazil is less than 10.0% of our total deposits and is therefore not considered significant.

116


Loans by Economic Activity

     The following table summarizes our loans by borrowers’ economic activity as of the dates indicated. This table does not include non-performing loans.

    December 31, 
   
    2006   2007    2008 
       
    Loan    % of loan    Loan    % of loan    Loan   % of loan 
    portfolio    portfolio     portfolio    portfolio    portfolio    portfolio 
             
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Industrial:                         
   Food, beverages and tobacco    R$4,226    4.5%    R$6,547    5.1%    R$9,733    5.8% 
   Electric and electronic, and                         
       communication equipment    633    0.7    812    0.6    1,196    0.7 
   Chemicals and pharmaceuticals    2,614    2.8    3,847    3.0    5,592    3.3 
   Civil construction    1,475    1.5    3,271    2.6    3,268    2.0 
   Basic metal industries    1,937    2.0    2,446    1.9    6,171    3.7 
   Textiles, clothing and leather goods    1,450    1.5    2,602    2.0    3,654    2.2 
   Manufacturing of machinery and                         
         equipment    1,702    1.8    1,947    1.5    2,246    1.3 
   Paper, paper products, printing and                         
       publishing    2,340    2.5    2,121    1.7    3,709    2.2 
   Automotive    2,449    2.6    2,530    2.0    3,478    2.1 
   Non-metallic minerals    1,306    1.4    529    0.4    678    0.4 
   Rubber and plastic    1,040    1.1    1,385    1.1    1,876    1.1 
   Information technology and office                         
       equipment    52      155    0.1     
   Wood and wood products, including                         
       furniture    643    0.7    747    0.6    972    0.6 
   Extractive    758    0.8    1,563    1.2    1,878    1.1 
   Petrochemicals    470    0.5    270    0.2    1,951    1.2 
   Others    4,700    5.0    9,522    7.5    14,224    8.5 
             
Subtotal    27,795    29.4    40,294    31.5    60,626    36.2 
             
Individuals:                         
   Consumer loans    32,743    34.7    43,002    33.6    39,235    23.4 
   Real estate    1,326    1.4    1,571    1.2    2,174    1.3 
   Lease financing    100    0.1    251    0.2    808    0.5 
             
Subtotal    34,169    36.2    44,824    35.0    42,217    25.2 
             
Real Estate Construction    519    0.6    1,634    1.3    3,134    1.8 
             
Commercial                         
   Retail    7,393    7.8    9,725    7.6    14,472    8.6 
   Wholesale    4,781    5.1    5,842    4.6    7,833    4.7 
   Lodging and catering services    374    0.4    592    0.5    1,260    0.8 
             
Subtotal    12,548    13.3    16,159    12.7    23,565    14.1 
             
Financial services:                         
   Financial institutions    987    1.1    1,048    0.8    1,211    0.7 
   Insurance companies and private pension                         
       plans    27      44      108    0.1 
             
Subtotal    1,014    1.1    1,092    0.8    1,319    0.8 
             
Services                         
   Telecommunications    1,097    1.2    1,191    0.9    811    0.5 
   Service providers    2,602    2.7    3,544    2.8    3,472    2.1 
   Transportation    4,238    4.5    5,559    4.4    8,927    5.3 
   Real estate    773    0.8    1,364    1.1    5,538    3.3 
   Health and social services    581    0.6    787    0.6    1,781    1.1 
   Leisure    575    0.6    824    0.6    880    0.5 
   Education    367    0.4    426    0.3    413    0.2 
   Public administration and defense    14      73    0.1     
   Other    749    0.8    1,057    0.8    4,515    2.7 
             
Subtotal    10,996    11.6    14,825    11.6    26,337    15.7 
             
Agriculture, breeding, forestry and                         
fishing    7,399    7.8    9,032    7.1    10,459    6.2 
             
Total    R$94,440    100.0%    R$127,860    100.0%    R$167,657    100.0% 
             

117


Allowance for Loan Losses

     The following table states the allowance for loan losses by economic activity for the periods indicated:

    December 31, 
   
    2004    2005    2006    2007    2008 
           
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Balance at the beginning of the period    R$3,846    R$4,063    R$4,964    R$6,552    R$7,769 
Charge–off from assets                     
     Commercial                     
       Industrial and others    (853)   (604)   (947)   (1,015)   (1,532)
       Import financing    (5)   –    –    –    (6)
       Export financing    (13)   (8)   (3)   (1)   (57)
     Construction    (5)   –    –    –   
     Leasing    (31)   (23)   (7)   (106)   (139)
     Individuals                     
         Overdraft    (278)   (177)   (247)   (247)   (236)
         Real Estate    (135)   (26)   (47)   (61)   28 
         Financing (1)   (207)   (572)   (1,301)   (2,252)   (2,351)
         Credit card    (287)   (153)   (257)   (596)   (1,040)
     Rural credit    (8)   (39)   (6)   (2)   (7)
     Foreign currency loans    (2)   (1)   (1)   (1)   (5)
           
 
 Total charge–off from assets    (1,824)   (1,603)   (2,816)   (4,281)   (5,345)
           
 Recoveries 
                   
     Commercial                     
       Industrial and others    286    308    253    383    266 
       Import financing      –    –    –   
     Leasing      42    14    13    13 
     Individuals                     
       Overdraft    54    38    39    51    299 
       Real estate    69    31    18    18    20 
         Financing (1)   175    208    281    367    557 
     Credit card      10    19    35    86 
     Rural credit      36    10    10   
     Foreign currency loans    11         
           
  Total recoveries 
  612    681    637    882    1,243 
           
 
Net charge–offs    (1,212)   (922)   (2,179)   (3,399)   (4,102)
           
 
Provision for loan losses    1,429    1,823    3,767    4,616    6,651 
           
 
Balance at the end of the period    R$4,063    R$4,964    R$6,552    R$7,769    R$10,318 
           
Net charge–offs during the period as a percentage of average loans outstanding(including non–performing loans)   2.1%    1.3%    2.4%    3.1%    2.7% 

____________________________
(1)      Primarily composed of vehicle financing and consumer loans
 

     Based on information available regarding our debtors, we believe that our aggregate allowance for loan losses is sufficient to cover probable losses in our loan operations portfolio.

     The following table sets forth our provision for loan losses, charge-offs and recoveries included in results of operations for the periods indicated:

               Year ended December 31,    % Change 
     
    2006    2007    2008    2007/2006    2008/2007 
           
   
(R$ in millions, except %)
Provision for loan losses expenses    R$3,767    R$4,616    R$6,651    22.5%    44.1% 
Loan charge-offs    (2,816)   (4,281)   (5,345)   52.0    24.9 
Loan recoveries    637    882    1,243    38.5    40.9 
Net Charge offs    R$(2,179)   R$(3,399)   R$(4,102)   56.0%    20.7% 
Provision for loan losses (1)   4.2%    4.2%    4.4%     

____________________________
(1)      Provision as a percentage of average loans outstanding.
 

118


Allocation of the Allowance for Loan losses

     The tables below set forth the allocation of the allowance for loan losses for the periods indicated. The allowance amount allocated and the loan category are stated as a percentage of total loans.

    December 31, 2004 
   
        Allocated    Allocated         
        allowance as a    allowance as a    Loan category    Loan category 
    Allocated    percentage of    percentage of    as a percentage    as a percentage 
    allowance    total loans (1)   total loans (2)   of total loans (1)   of total loans (2)
           
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Type of loans                     
Commercial                     
  Industrial and others    R$1,600    2.6%    2.5%    38.3%    38.1% 
  Import financing    45    0.1    0.1    2.1    2.0 
  Export financing    122    0.2    0.2    13.4    13.1 
Construction    23    –    –    0.7    0.7 
Leasing    53    0.1    0.1    2.7    2.6 
Individuals                     
  Overdraft    191    0.3    0.3    2.1    2.3 
  Real Estate    111    0.3    0.2    1.5    1.7 
  Financing (3)   1,415    2.3    2.2    24.6    25.0 
  Credit card    188    0.3    0.3    2.1    2.4 
Rural credit    302    0.5    0.5    9.9    9.6 
Foreign currency loans    13    –    –    2.6    2.5 
           
 
Total    R$4,063    6.7%    6.4%    100.0%    100.0% 
           

___________________________
(1)      Excludes non-performing loans.
(2)      Includes non-performing loans.
(3)      Primarily includes loans for the acquisition of vehicles and direct consumer financing.
 
    December 31, 2005 
   
        Allocated    Allocated         
        allowance as a    allowance as a    Loan category    Loan category 
    Allocated    percentage of    percentage of    as a percentage    as a percentage 
    allowance    total loans (1)   total loans (2)   of total loans (1)   of total loans (2)
           
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Type of loans                     
Commercial                     
  Industrial and others    R$1,885    2.3%    2.3%    35.9%    35.6% 
  Import financing    24    –    –    1.4    1.3 
  Export financing    123    0.2    0.1    12.5    12.3 
Construction    56    0.1    0.1    0.7    0.6 
Leasing    105    0.1    0.1    3.1    3.0 
Individuals                     
  Overdraft    242    0.3    0.3    2.0    2.1 
  Real estate    137    0.2    0.2    1.0    1.1 
  Financing (3)   1,832    2.3    2.2    30.7    31.4 
  Credit card    249    0.3    0.3    2.3    2.5 
Rural credit    304    0.4    0.4    8.0    7.8 
Foreign currency loans      –    –    2.4    2.3 
           
 
Total    R$4,964    6.2%    6.0%    100.0%    100.0% 
           

__________________________
(1)      Excludes non-performing loans.
(2)      Includes non-performing loans.
(3)      Primarily includes loans for the acquisition of vehicles and direct consumer financing.
 

119


    December 31, 2006 
   
        Allocated    Allocated         
        allowance as a    allowance as a    Loan category    Loan category 
    Allocated    percentage of    percentage of    as a percentage    as a percentage 
    allowance    total loans (1)   total loans (2)   of total loans (1)   of total loans (2)
           
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Type of loans                     
Commercial                     
  Industrial and others    R$2,569    2.7%    2.6%    34.8%    34.5% 
  Import financing      –    –    1.6    1.5 
  Export financing    101    0.1    0.1    13.8    13.2 
Construction    56    0.1    0.1    0.6    0.5 
Leasing    105    0.1    0.1    4.1    4.0 
Individuals                     
  Overdraft    182    0.2    0.2    1.4    2.0 
  Real estate    132    0.1    0.1    1.4    1.4 
  Financing (3)   2,941    3.2    3.0    29.9    30.7 
  Credit card    265    0.3    0.3    2.8    2.8 
Rural credit    196    0.2    0.2    7.9    7.8 
Foreign currency loans      –    –    1.7    1.6 
           
 
Total    R$6,552    7.0%    6.7%    100.0%    100.0% 
           

__________________________
(1)      Excludes non-performing loans.
(2)      Includes non-performing loans.
(3)      Primarily includes loans for the acquisition of vehicles and direct consumer financing.
 
    December 31, 2007 
   
        Allocated    Allocated         
        allowance as a    allowance as a    Loan category    Loan category 
    Allocated    percentage of    percentage of    as a percentage    as a percentage 
    allowance    total loans (1)   total loans (2)   of total loans (1)   of total loans (2)
           
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Type of loans                     
Commercial                     
  Industrial and others    R$2,759    2.2%    2.1%    34.7%    34.3% 
  Import financing    10    –    –    1.7    1.7 
  Export financing    79    0.1    0.1    12.0    11.5 
Construction    56    0.1    0.1    1.3    1.3 
Leasing    171    0.1    0.1    6.3    6.2 
Individuals                     
  Overdraft    232    0.2    0.2    1.5    1.6 
  Real estate    129    0.1    0.1    1.3    1.2 
  Financing (3)   3,424    2.7    2.6    30.3    31.0 
  Credit card    686    0.5    0.5    1.8    2.4 
Rural credit    216    0.2    0.2    7.1    6.9 
Foreign currency loans      –    –    2.0    1.9 
           
 
Total    R$7,769    6.2%    6.0%    100.0%    100.0% 
           

__________________________
(1)      Excludes non-performing loans.
(2)      Includes non-performing loans.
(3)      Primarily includes loans for the acquisition of vehicles and direct consumer financing.
 

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    December 31, 2008 
   
                Loan    Loan 
        Allowance    Allowance    operations    operations 
        allocated as a    allocated as a    category as a    category as a 
    Allowance    percentage of    percentage of    percentage of    percentage of 
    Allocated    total loans(1)   total loans(2)   total loans(1)   total loans.(2)
           
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Type of loans                     
Commercial                     
  Industrial and others    R$3,294    2.0%    1.9%    38.0%    37.4% 
  Import financing    15        1.2    1.1 
  Export financing    446    0.3    0.2    14.4    13.9 
Construction    40    0.1    0.1    1.9    1.8 
Leasing    641    0.4    0.4    12.0    11.7 
Individuals                     
  Overdraft    302    0.2    0.2    1.4    1.6 
  Real Estate    252    0.1    0.1    1.3    1.3 
  Financing (3)   4,088    2.4    2.3    20.4    21.4 
  Credit card    964    0.6    0.6    1.5    2.1 
Rural credit    271    0.1    0.1    6.2    6.1 
Foreign currency loans          1.7    1.6 
           
 
Total    R$10,318    6.2%    5.9%    100.0%    100.0% 
           

__________________________
(1)      Excludes non-performing loans.
(2)      Includes non-performing loans.
(3)      Primarily includes loans for the acquisition of vehicles and direct consumer financing.
 

Average Deposit Balances and Interest Rates

     The following table shows the average balances of deposits as well as the average interest rate paid on deposits for the periods indicated:

    Year ended December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
    Average    Average    Average    Average    Average    Average 
    balance    rate    balance    rate    balance    rate 
             
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Domestic deposits                         
 Non–interest–bearing deposits                         
     Demand deposits    R$17,210        R$22,185        R$25,991     
 Interest–bearing deposits                         
     Deposits from banks    143    13.3%    223    14.8%    404    19.8% 
     Savings deposits    25,590    7.5    28,958    6.9    34,538    7.1 
     Time deposits    31,203    13.3    32,322    10.5    58,843    11.8 
             
 Total interest–bearing deposits    56,936    10.7    61,503    8.8    93,785    10.1 
             
 
Total domestic deposits    74,146    8.2    83,688    6.5    119,776    7.9 
             
 
International deposits (1):                         
 Non–interest–bearing deposits                         
     Demand deposits    222        126        314    - 
 Interest–bearing deposits                         
 
             
     Time deposits    3,258    4.7    2,066    5.8    3,390    4.6 
             
 
             
 
Total international deposits    3,480    4.4    2,192    5.4    3,704    4.2 
             
 
Total deposits    R$77,626    8.0%    R$85,880    6.5%    R$123,480    7.8% 
             

___________________________
(1)      Denominated in currencies other than reais, primarily U.S. dollars.
 

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Maturity of Deposits

     The following table shows the distribution of our deposits by maturity at the date indicated:

    December 31, 2008 
   
    Due in 3    Due after 3    Due after 6         
    months or    months to 6    months to 1    Due after 1     
    less    months    year    year    Total 
           
    (R$ in millions)
Domestic deposits                     
Non–interest–bearing deposits                     
   Demand deposits (1)   R$28,246    -    -    -    R$28,246 
Interest–bearing deposits                     
   Deposits from banks    511    R$70    R$94    R$23    698 
   Savings deposits (1)   37,768          37,768 
   Time deposits    5,271    3,238    9,526    72,526    90,561 
           
 
Total interest–bearing deposits    43,550    3,308    9,620    72,549    129,027 
           
 
Total domestic deposits    71,796    3,308    9,620    72,549    157,273 
           
 
International deposits (2):                     
Non–interest–bearing deposits                     
   Demand deposits    366    -    -    -    366 
Interest–bearing deposits                     
 
   Time deposits    5,752    685    217    208    6,862 
           
 
Total interest–bearing deposits    5,752    685    217    208    6,862 
           
 
Total international deposits    6,118    685    217    208    7,228 
           
 
Total deposits    R$77,914    R$3,993    R$9,837    R$72,757    R$164,501 
           

__________________________
(1)      Demand deposits and savings deposits are classified as due in three months or less, without taking into account the average turnaround history.
(2)      Denominated in currencies other than reais, primarily U.S. dollars.
 

     The following table sets forth information regarding the maturity of outstanding time deposits with balances greater than US$100,000 (or its equivalent), by maturity, as of the date indicated:

    December 31, 2008 
    Domestic    International 
    Currency    Currency 
     
    (R$ in millions)
Maturity within 3 months    R$4,063    R$1,603 
Maturity after 3 months but within 6 months    2,421    144 
Maturity after 6 months but within 12 months    8,153    136 
Maturity after 12 months    50,581    25 
     
 
Total deposits in excess of US$100,000    R$65,218    R$1,908 
     

Federal Funds Purchased and Securities Sold under Agreements to Repurchase and Short-term Borrowings

     Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase and short-term borrowings totaled R$88,579 million on December 31, 2008, R$77,004 million on December 31, 2007, and R$48,584 million on December 31, 2006. The principal categories of short-term borrowings are import and export financing and commercial paper.

     The following table summarizes the federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase and short-term borrowings for the periods indicated:


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    Year ended December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to             
repurchase             
   Amount outstanding    R$42,875    R$69,015    R$74,730 
   Maximum amount outstanding during the period    42,875    69,015    92,818 
   Weighted average interest rate at period end    13.1%    10.9%    13.6% 
   Average amount outstanding during period    27,821    51,384    74,139 
   Weighted average interest rate    13.5%    10.8%    12.4% 
Import and export financing             
   Amount outstanding    4,440    6,073    10,958 
   Maximum amount outstanding during the period    4,440    6,073    13,455 
   Weighted average interest rate at period end    5.0%    4.8%    3.0% 
   Average amount outstanding during period    3,964    5,159    7,866 
   Weighted average interest rate    (4.0)%   
(18.3)% 
  54.9% 
Commercial paper             
   Amount outstanding    1,225    1,915    2,890 
   Maximum amount outstanding during the period    2,607    2,023    3,037 
   Weighted average interest rate at period end    4.9%    4.8%    3.2% 
   Average amount outstanding during period    1,752    1,728    2,380 
   Weighted average interest rate    12.2%    12.7%    24.5% 
Other    44     
       
 
Total    R$48,584    R$77,004    R$88,579 
       

Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects.

     You should read this discussion in conjunction with our audited consolidated financial statements, the notes thereto and other financial information included elsewhere in this annual report.

Overview

Brazilian Economic Conditions

     In 2006, Brazilian GDP increased by 3.7%, and the real appreciated by 8.7% in relation to the U.S. dollar, reaching R$2.1380 per U.S.$1.00 on December 31, 2006 as compared to R$2.3407 per U.S.$1.00 on December 31, 2005. The Central Bank gradually decreased the base interest rate from 18% in December 2005 to 13.25% in December 2006.

     In 2007, Brazilian GDP increased by 5.4%, and the real appreciated by 17.1% in relation to the U.S. dollar, reaching R$1.7713 per U.S.$1.00 on December 31, 2007 as compared to R$2.1380 per U.S.$1.00 on December 31, 2006. The Central Bank gradually decreased the base interest rate from 13.25% in December 2006 to 11.25% in December 2007.

     In 2008, Brazilian GDP increased by 5.1%, and the real depreciated by 31.9% in relation to the U.S. dollar, reaching R$2.3370 per U.S.$1.00 on December 31, 2008 as compared to R$1.7713 per U.S.$1.00 on December 31, 2007. The Central Bank gradually increased the base interest rate from 11.25% in December 2007 to 13.75% in December 2008.

     In the first quarter of 2009, Brazilian GDP decreased by 1.8% as compared to the same period in 2008. The real appreciated by 15.6%, reaching R$1.9730 per U.S.$1.00 at May 29, 2009 as compared to R$2.3370 per U.S.$1.00 on December 31, 2008. In the five-month period ended May 31, 2009, the Central Bank decreased the base interest rate from 13.75% to 10.25%, and decreased it again to 9.25% in June 2009. Inflation for the five-month period ended May 31, 2009 was 0.73%, as measured by the IGP-DI index. On June 12, 2009, the real/U.S. dollar exchange rate was R$1.9301.

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     The following table shows the Brazilian inflation measured by IGP-DI, the appreciation of the real against U.S. dollar, the exchange rate at the end of each year and the average exchange rate for the periods indicated:

    December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Inflation (IGP-DI)    3.8%                       7.9%     9.1% 
Appreciation of the real against U.S. dollar    (8.7)%    (17.1)%    31.9% 
Period-end exchange rate—US$1.00     R$2.1380                         R$1.7713     R$2.3370 
Average exchange rate—US$1.00(1)    R$2.1812                         R$1.9460     R$1.8824 

_______________________________
(1)   The average exchange rate is the sum of the closing exchange rates at the end of each month in the period divided by the number of months in the period. 
Sources: FGV and the Central Bank. 

     The following table shows the change in real GDP and average interbank interest rates for the periods indicated:

    December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008
       
Change in real GDP(1)   3.7%    5.4%    5.1% 
Average base interest rates(2)   15.0    11.8    12.3 
Average interbank interest rates(3)   15.0%    11.8%    12.3% 

______________________________
(1)   Calculated by dividing the change in real GDP during a year by the real GDP of the previous year. 
(2)   Calculated in accordance with Central Bank methodology (based on nominal rates). 
(3)   Calculated in accordance with Clearing and Custody Chamber (“CETIP”) methodology (based on nominal rates). 
Sources: The Central Bank, the Brazilian Geography and Statistics Institute and CETIP. 

     The interbank interest rate has been relatively similar to, and is sometimes lower than, the average base interest rate over the past three years, primarily due to the relatively high level of funds available in the Brazilian banking industry and increased competition between banks. These factors move the interbank interest rate towards the base interest rate as banks seek to use their funds available and remain competitive.

Effects of Interest Rates and Devaluation, Appreciation on Net Interest Income

     During periods of high interest rates, our interest income increases due to increasing interest rates on our interest-earning assets. At the same time, our interest expense increases as interest rates on our interest-bearing liabilities also rose. Changes in volumes of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities also affect our interest income and interest expense. For example, an increase in our interest income attributable to an increase in interest rates may be offset by a decrease in the volume of our outstanding loans.

     In addition, when the real depreciates, we incur (i) losses on our liabilities denominated in, or indexed to, foreign currencies, such as our U.S. dollar-denominated long-term debt and foreign currency loans, as the cost in reais of the related interest expense increases, and (ii) gains in our assets denominated in, or indexed to, foreign currencies, such as our dollar-indexed securities and loans, as the income from such assets as measured in reais increases. Conversely, when the real appreciates, as occurred from 2003 to 2007, we incur (i) losses on our assets denominated in, or indexed to, foreign currencies and (ii) gains in our liabilities denominated in, or indexed to, foreign currencies.

     In 2007, our interest income increased by 6.5% as compared to 2006, from R$34,271 million in 2006 to R$36,509 million in 2007, and our interest expense decreased by 1.0%, from R$12,869 million in 2006 to R$12,738 million in 2007. The increase in our interest income was mainly a result of an increase in the average balance of our interest-earning assets, which was partially offset by a decrease in the average interest rates, mainly CDI, which decreased from 15.0% in 2006 to 11.8% in 2007. The decrease in our interest expense was mainly a result of a decrease in the average balance of our interest-bearing liabilities, which was partially offset by a decrease in the average interest rates, mainly CDI, which decreased from 15.0% in 2006 to 11.8% in 2007.

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     In 2008, our interest income increased by 47.4% as compared to 2007, from R$36,509 million in 2007 to R$53,803 million in 2008, and our interest expense increased by 123.2%, from R$12,738 million in 2007 to R$28,432 million in 2008. These increases in our interest income and expenses were mainly a result of an increase in the average balance of our interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, and an increase in the average interest rates, mainly CDI, which increased from 11.8% in 2007 to 12.3% in 2008.

     The following table shows our foreign-currency-denominated and -indexed assets and liabilities at the dates indicated:

    December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
    (R$ in millions)
Assets             
   Cash and due from banks    R$177    R$508    R$3,473 
   Interest earning deposits in other banks    2,616    1,410    5,832 
   Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell    1,065    3,001    711 
   Brazilian Central Bank compulsory deposits    12    11    45 
   Trading securities, at fair value    1,771    2,905    2,115 
   Available-for-sale securities, at fair value    2,735    1,551    3,869 
   Held to maturity securities    1,077    338    1,136 
   Net loans    15,258    17,615    25,858 
   Other assets    207    3,270    6,095 
       
 
Total assets    24,918    30,609    49,134 
       
 
Off-balance sheet accounts – notional value:             
 Derivatives: 
           
   Futures    5,759    3,609    5,994 
   Forwards    1,396    2,088    4,287 
   Options        1,960 
       
   Swaps    711    3,387    5,312 
       
 
Total    R$32,784    R$39,693    R$66,687 
       

    December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
    (R$ in millions)
Liabilities             
Deposits    R$3,449    R$2,278    R$7,228 
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase    922    2,822    54 
   Short-term borrowings    5,709    7,989    13,849 
   Long-term debt    5,632    7,063    9,207 
   Others    1,059    1,464    12,079 
       
 
 Total liabilities    16,771    21,616    42,417 
       
 
Off-balance sheet accounts – notional value:             
 Derivatives: 
           
   Futures    10,907    11,859    22,709 
   Forward    459    1,191    2,848 
   Options        1,222 
   Swap    9,601    9,555    6,587 
       
 
 Total    37,738    44,221    75,783 
       
 
   Net exposure    R$(4,954)   R$(4,528)   R$(9,096)

     We use swaps, futures contracts and other hedging instruments in order to minimize the potential impact on us of currency changes. For more information on our use of derivatives for hedging purposes, see notes 2(e), 2(f) and 23(b) to our consolidated financial statements in Item 18.

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     In 2006 and 2007, the higher amount of our dollar-denominated and -indexed liabilities as compared to foreign-currency-denominated and -indexed assets, adjusted according to derivative financial instruments, and resulted in net interest gains due to the appreciation of the real during the period. In 2008, these gains were mitigated due to the depreciation of the real. In 2008, the lower amount of our foreign-currency-denominated and -indexed liabilities was due to the depreciation of the real.

Lending and Treasury Activities

     Our allowance for loan losses was R$3,767 million as of December 31, 2006, and increased to R$4,616 million as of December 31, 2007 and to R$6,651 million as of December 31, 2008. These increases were mainly a result of an increase in the average balance of our outstanding loan portfolio. The balance of our outstanding loan portfolio increased by 34.9%, from R$98,724 million as of December 31, 2006 to R$133,137 million as of December 31, 2007, by 31.3%, from R$133,137 million as of December 31, 2007 to R$174,835 million as of December 31, 2008. These increases were mainly a result of ongoing marketing efforts, increased confidence on the part of borrowers, and strengthening domestic and international markets until the the beginning of the world financial crisis in the second half of 2008.

     Our trading securities was R$62,735 million as of December 31, 2006, decreasing to R$59,146 million as of December 31, 2007, and increasing to R$91,849 million as of December 31, 2008. These increases were mainly a result of our treasury strategy to diversify our assets.

Taxes

     Our taxes on income consist of two federal taxes: (i) the IRPJ, which is assessed at a rate of 15.0% on our adjusted net income, and is increased by an additional income tax at a rate of 10.0%; and (ii) the social contribution tax, which is assessed at a rate of 15.0% on our adjusted net income.

     On January 3, 2008, Brazilian government increased the social contribution tax rate for the financial segment from 9% to 15%. Financial institutions have been collecting the social contribution tax on adjusted net income at a 15% rate since May 1, 2008. The legality of this increase is being questioned at the Brazilian Supreme Court. If the Brazilian Supreme Court decides that this increase is not legal, we will be entitled to recover any amount we have collected in excess under the 15% tax rate regime as we have had always collected the social contribution tax under the 9% regime.

     Brazilian corporations may pay shareholders interest on shareholders’ equity as an alternative form of making dividend distributions which may be deducted entirely against taxable income. We intend to maximize the amount of dividends we pay in the form of interest on shareholders’ equity. For further information on our tax expenses, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—Regulation and Supervision—Taxation” and “Item 10. Additional Information—Memorandum and Articles of Incorporation—Organization—Allocation of Net Income and Distribution of Dividends” and “Taxation—Distributions of Interest on shareholders’ equity.”

Impact of Recent Material Acquisitions on our Future Financial Performance

     We have made the following significant acquisitions during the past three years:

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     We have integrated the above operations into our operations, and do not record each business individually. Accordingly, we cannot quantify the financial impact of these acquisitions individually.

     We believe that these acquisitions and related transfers of assets and liabilities contributed to increase our revenues, expenses and income, and that each acquisition and the related transfers of assets and liabilities will increase our future revenues, expenses and income. The amount of these increases is uncertain, and we therefore cannot estimate their impact on our future financial performance. For more information, see “Item 4. Information of the Company—History and Development of the Company—History—Recent Acquisitions.”

127


     None of our acquisitions made since January 2006 has been significant as measured in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

     Our significant accounting policies are described in note 2 to our audited consolidated financial statements in Item 18. The following discussion describes the areas that require the most judgment or involve a higher degree of complexity in the application of the accounting policies that currently affect our financial condition and results of operations. The accounting estimates we make in these contexts involve making assumptions about highly uncertain matters. In each case, other estimates or changes in the estimates between periods could have had a material impact on our financial condition and results of operations, as shown in our financial statements.

Allowance for loan losses

     We periodically adjust our allowance for loan losses based on an analysis of our loan portfolio, including our estimate of the probable losses inherent in on our loan and lease portfolio at the end of each period.

     The determination of the amount of the allowance for loan and leasing losses by its nature requires us to make judgments and assumptions regarding our loan portfolio, both on a portfolio and on an individual basis. When we review our portfolio as a whole, several factors can affect our estimate of the likely range of losses, including which methodology we use in measuring historical delinquency rates and what historical period we consider in making those measurements. Additional factors that can affect our determination of the allowance for loan losses include:

     We use models to assist us in analyzing our loan portfolio and in determining what allowance for loan losses to make. We apply statistical loss factors and other risk indicators to loan pools with similar risk characteristics in arriving at an estimate of incurred losses in the portfolio to calculate the models. Although we frequently revise and improve our models, they are by their nature dependent on our judgment and on the information and estimates that we receive. In addition, the volatility of the Brazilian economy may lead to greater uncertainty in our models than would be expected in more stable macroeconomic environments. Accordingly, our allowance for loan losses may not be indicative of future charge-offs.

128


     Our allowance for loan losses is based on our risk classification of each client and/or operation and on portfolio delinquency rates. Assuming a 1.0% increase in losses to our loan portfolio, as of December 31, 2008, our loan losses would increase by approximately R$63 million. This sensitivity analysis is hypothetical, and is only meant to illustrate the impact that the delinquencies, and therefore the risk rating, have on determining allowance for loan losses. Given the procedures that we follow in order to determine the risk classification of our clients and of the credit portfolio by products, we believe that our current risk classifications and estimates of severity of losses are appropriate for our loan portfolio.

     The process of determining the level of allowances for credit losses requires a high degree of judgment. It is possible that others, given the same information, may at any point in time reach different reasonable conclusions.

     For additional information regarding our practices related to the allowance for loan losses, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—Selected Statistical Information—Credit Operations—Non-performing loans” and “—Allowance for loan losses.”

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

     Financial instruments reported at fair value in our financial statements consist primarily of securities classified as trading and available-for-sale and other trading assets, including derivatives. Fair value is defined as the value at which a position could be closed out or sold in a transaction with a willing and knowledgeable party.

     On January 1, 2008, the Company adopted SFAS 157, which established a three-level valuation hierarchy for disclosure of fair value measurements. Under SFAS 157, instruments are categorized within a hierarchy based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. We input less of our own judgment in arriving at fair market value measurements for instruments classified as levels 1 and 2, where inputs are principally based on observable market data. By contrast, for instruments classified as level 3, we have to input a significant amount of our own judgment in arriving at fair market value measurements. We base our judgment decisions on our knowledge and observations of the markets relevant to the indivudal assets and liabilities, and may vary based on market conditions. In applying our judgment, we look at a range of third-party prices and transaction volumes to understand and assess the extent of market benchmarks available and the judgments or modeling required in third-party processes. Based on these factors, we determine whether the fair values are observable in active markets or whether the markets are inactive.

     The fair values of trading account assets, liabilities and available for sale securities are primarily based on actively traded markets where prices are based on either direct market quotes, observed transactions or market prices for similar assets. Liquidity is a significant factor in the determination of the fair values of trading account assets or liabilities and available for sale securities. Situations of illiquidity generally are triggered by the market’s perception of credit uncertainty regarding a single company or a specific market sector. In these instances the securities are classified within level 3 of the valuation hierarchy once the fair value is determined based on unobservable inputs that are supported by limited available market information and that are significant to the fair value of the assets as well as other factors which require significant management judgment or estimation. At December 31, 2008, R$11 billion, or 9.2%, of trading assets and available for sale securities were classified as level 3 fair value assets.

     Exchange traded derivatives valued using quoted prices are classified within level 1 of the valuation hierarchy. However, few classes of derivatives contracts are listed on an exchange, thus, the majority of our derivative positions are determined using quantitative models that require the use of multiple inputs including interest rates, prices and indeces to generate continuous yield or pricing curves and volatility factors, including the period to maturity. These inputs are used to value the position. The majority of market inputs is observable and can be obtained mainly from BM&F Bovespa and the secondary market. At December 31, 2008, the fair values of derivatives assets and liabilities classified as level 3 was R$76 million and R$42 million.

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     Imprecision in estimating unobservable market inputs can impact the amount of revenue or loss recorded for a particular position. Furthermore, while we believe our valuation methods are appropriate and consistent with those of other market participants, the use of different methodologies or assumptions to determine the fair value of certain financial instruments could result in a different estimate of fair value at the reporting date. For a detailed discussion of the determination of fair value of financial instruments, see Note 21 of the Financail Satements.

     Net trading gains (losses), which represent the net amount earned from our trading positions, can be volatile and are largely driven by general market conditions and customer demand. Net trading gains (losses) are dependent on the volume and type of transactions, the level of risk assumed, and the volatility of price and rate movements at any given time within the ever-changing market environment. To evaluate risk in our trading activities, we focus on the actual and potential volatility of individual positions as well as portfolios. At a portfolio and corporate level, we use trading limits, stress testing and tools such as VAR modeling to estimate a potential daily loss not to be exceeded with a specified confidence level to measure and manage market risk. At December 31, 2008, the amount of our VAR was R$443 million based on a 99% confidence level. For more information on VAR, see “Item 11—Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk.—Value at Risk.

Other-than-temporary impairment

     Judgment is also required to determine whether a decline in fair value below the amortized cost of an available-for-sale security or a security held to maturity is “other-than-temporary,” such that it requires that we write down the amortized cost basis and reflect the reduction as an expense. In determining whether or not impairment of a security is other-than-temporary, we have applied the three step model described in FASB Staff Position Nos. FAS 115-1 and FAS 124-1, “The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and Its Application to Certain Investments.” We use a combination of factors aimed at determining whether recovery of the value of a security is likely. These fators include: the length of time and the extent to which fair value has been less than cost to assist in determining the extent of the analysis to be performed over the securities; the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer of the security, including any specific events which may influence the operations of the issuer; any failure of the issuer of the security to make scheduled interest payments; changes to the rating of the security by a rating agency; the historic and implied volatility of the security; and the intent and ability of the Bank to retain its investment in the security for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in fair value. In addition, for marketable equity securities our assessment includes forcast analyses of the period (date) when the security will recover the cost basis and whether the bank will own the security in that period (on that date). These analyses are preformed based on an assessment of individual terms and attributes of each security.

     At December 31, 2008 the fair value of available for sale securities was R$29,955 million and the net unrealized gain (loss) relating to those securities amounted to R$155 million. Of these available for sale securities the gross unrealized loss was R$2,003 million related to securities with amortized cost basis of R$4,915 as of December 31, 2008. Thus, the fair value of these securities needs to increase by 69% at December 31, 2009, in order to recover their cost. If the increase in fair value were to be limited to 20%, 40% or 60%, we could incur a loss of R$1,420 million, R$908 million and R$256 million, respectively. The forecast increase in the fair value of these securities involves the use of methodologies and assumptions in addition to our intent and ability to retain such investment until we recover our acquisition cost.

     As at June 12, 2009, none of the equity securities held at December 31, 2008 had been sold and the gross unrealized losses on equity securities had reduced from an unrealized losses of R$ 1,469 at December 31, 2008 to R$253 of net unrealized losses.

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     These valuation methods could expose us to materially different results should the model used or their underlying assumptions be inaccurate.

Classification of Securities

     The classification of securities under trading, available-for-sale or held to maturity categories is based on management’s intention to hold or trade such securities at the time of acquisition. The accounting treatment of the securities we hold thus depends on whether we classify them at acquisition as trading, available-for-sale or held to maturity. Changes in circumstances may modify our strategy with respect to a specific security, requiring transfers among the three categories indicated above.

Income Tax

     The determination of the amount of our income tax liability is complex, and our assessment is related to our analysis of our deferred tax assets and liabilities and income tax payable. In general, our evaluation requires that we estimate future amounts of deferred tax benefits and income tax payable. Our assessment of the possibility that a deferred tax benefit could be realized is subjective and involves assessments and assumptions that are inherently uncertain in nature. The realization of deferred tax benefits is subject to changes in future tax rates and developments in our tax planning strategies. The underlying support for our assessments and assumptions could change over time as a result of unforeseen events or circumstances, affecting our determination of the amount of our tax liability.

     We constantly monitor and evaluate the impact on our liability of new tax laws as well as new developments that could affect the assessments and assumptions underlying our analysis of the possibility of realizing deferred tax benefits.

     We have applied the FASB Interpretation No. 48, or FIN 48 (Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – An Interpretation of FASB Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 109, or SFAS 109), which consists of a framework to determine the appropriate level of tax reserves for these uncertain tax positions. See note 16 to our consolidated financial statements.

     Significant judgment is required in determining whether it is more likely than not that an income tax position will be sustained upon examination, even after the outcome of any related administrative or judicial proceedings based on technical merits. Further judgment is then required to determine the amount of benefit eligible for recognition in our consolidated financial statements.

     In addition, we have also applied SFAS 109 to monitor the interpretation of tax laws by, and decisions of, tax authorities and Courts so that we can adjust any prior judgment of accrued income taxes. This monitoring may also result from our own income tax planning or resolution of income tax controversies, and may be material to our operating results for any given period. For additional information about FIN 48, see note 2(q) and note 16 to our consolidated financial statements.

     For additional information regarding our income tax, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—Regulation and Supervision—Taxation—Income Tax and Social Contribution on Profits.”

Pension Plan Reserves

     Certain products we offer, such as pension investment contracts and funds where the policyholders bear the investment risk, are considered investment contracts in accordance with the requirements of SFAS 97 “Accoutning and Reporting by Insurance Enterprises for Certain Long Duration Contracts and For Realized Gains and Losses from Sale of Investments.” During the accumulation phase of the pension investment contracts, when the policyholder bears the investment risk, the contarcts are treated as investment contracts. During the annuity phase, the contract is treated as an insurance contract with mortality risk. Funds related to pesion investment contracts where the policyholder bears the investment risk are equal to the account value. Accout values are not actuarily determined. Rather, account values increase with deposits and interest credited (based on contractual provisions) and are reduced by redemptions at the policyholder’s election.

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     In addition, we determine the need to record an additional liability for the contract feature where the present value of expected annuitization payment at the expected annuitization date exceeds the expected account balance at the annuitization date, in accordance with SOP 03-1 “Accounting and Reporting by Insurance Enterprises for Certain Non-Traditional Long-Duration Contracts and for Separate Accounts.” Such liabilities are established based on methods and underlying assumptions in accordance with GAAP and applicable actuarial standards.

     Principal assumptions used in the establishment of liabilities for future policy benefits are mortality, morbidity, policy lapse, renewal, retirement, disability incidence, disability terminations, inflation, expenses and other contingent events as appropriate to the respective product type. These assumptions are established at the time the policy is issued and are intended to estimate the experience for the period the policy benefits are payable.

Insurance Reserves

     Reserves are liabilities representing estimates of the amounts that will come due at some point in the future, to or on behalf of our policyholders. U.S. GAAP allows for some degree of managerial judgment and prescribes the method for establishing dreserves. Future policy benefits and claims include reserves for traditional individual and group life insurance, health insurance and accident insurance, among others. These benefits are computed using assumptions of mortality, morbidity, lapse, investment performance, inflation and expense. These assumptison are based on our experience and are periodically reviewed against industry standards to ensure actuarial credibility. For long duration insurance contracts, once the assumptions are made for a given policy or group of policies, they will not be changed over the life of the policy. However, significant changes in experience or assumptions may require us to provide for expected future losses on a product by establishing premium deficiency reserves. Premium deficiency reserves may also be established for short duration contracts to provide for expected future losses. Future policy benefits and claims also include reserves for incurred but unreported health, disability and life insurance claims. We recognize claims closts in the period the service was provided to our policyowners. However, claims costs incurred in a particular period are not known with certainty until after we receive, process and pay the claims. We determine the amount of liability using actuarial methods based on historical claim payments to determine our estimate of claim liabilities. The methods of determining these estimates and establishing the reserves are reviewed and updated regularly. Adjustments resulting thereof are recognized in earnings for the respective period. For additional information, see Note 2 of our consolidated financial statements.

Use of Estimates

     In presenting the financial statements our management also makes estimates and assumptions relating to the calculation of insurance technical reserves, the selection of useful lives for certain assets and the determination of whether a specific asset or group of assets would be impaired. Estimates, by their nature, are based on judgment and available information. Therefore, actual results could be different from those estimates.

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Commitments and Contingencies

     We have contractual obligations to make certain payments to third parties, in accordance with the amounts presented in the following table:

    Payments due as of December 31, 2008 
   
Contractual Obligations    Less than 1 
 year (1)
  1 to 3 
years 
  3 to 5 years    More than 
5 years 
  Total 
           
    (R$ in millions)
Time deposits    R$24,689    R$60,317    R$11,322    R$1,095    R$97,423 
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase    48,464    21,904    4,222    140    74,730 
Long-term debt    9,363    19,549    12,963    5,380    47,255 
Other obligations (2)   70,620    25,714    1,167    192    97,693 
           
 
Total (3)   R$153,136    R$127,484    R$29,674    R$6,807    R$317,101 
           

________________
(1) 
Based on our historical experience, we expect that most of our obligations that are contractually due within one year will be rolled over.
(2) 
Includes reserves for insurance claims, pension plans and pension investment contracts.
(3) 
Excludes the liability for unrecognized tax benefits in the amount of R$3,229 million.

Off-balance Sheet Financial Guarantees

     In addition to our credit operations, we have credit-related transactions with our customers for attending their financing needs. These transactions are not recorded on our balance sheet in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The following table summarizes these off-balance sheet financial arrangements as of December 31, 2008:

    Payments due as of December 31, 2008 
   
Contract Obligations    Less than 
1 year 
  1 to 3 
years 
  3 to 5 
years 
  More than 
5 years 
  Total 
           
    (R$ in millions)
Financial guarantees    R$9,198    R$4,458    R$1,439    R$18,784    R$33,879 
Letters of credit    1,242          1,242 
           
 
Total    R$10,440    R$4,458    R$1,439    R$18,784    R$35,121 
           

     We guarantee our clients’ performance in obligations with third parties. We have the right to seek reimbursement from our clients for any amount we shall have to pay under such guarantee. Additionally, we may hold cash or other highly liquid collateral for these obligations. These agreements are subject to the same credit evaluation performed on the execution of loans.

     Letters of credit are conditional commitments issued by us to guarantee the performance of a customer’s obligations with third parties. We issue commercial letters of credit to facilitate foreign trade transactions and to support public and private borrowing agreements, including commercial paper, bond financing and similar transactions. These instruments are short-term commitments to pay a third-party beneficiary under certain contractual conditions. Letters of credit are subject to the same credit evaluations as other extensions of credit.

     We expect many of these guarantees to expire without the need to advance any cash. Therefore, in the ordinary course of business, we expect that these transactions will have virtually no impact on our liquidity.

Results by Segment

     We operate and manage our business through two principal operating segments: (i) the banking segment and (ii) the insurance, pension funds and certificated savings plans segment. Our segments are managed based on types of products and services offered and their related client bases. We evaluate the performance of our segments based on net income, net interest income, and non-interest income and expense.

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     The sums of the segments shown in the tables below may not correspond to the amounts shown on a consolidated basis, as they do not take into account immaterial activities or inter-segment transactions.

     In our banking segment, we offer a range of banking products and services to our customers, including deposit-taking and lending operations, credit and debit card services and capital markets services, through our broad distribution network. For a description of the banking segment’s operations, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—History and Development of the Company—Banking Activity.”

     In our insurance, pension funds and certificated savings plans segment, we offer a range of products and services to our customers, including health, life, accident, automobile and property insurance, individual and corporate pension plans, and certificated savings plans, through our broad distribution network. For a description of the operations of the insurance, pension plans and certificated savings plans segment, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—History and Development of the Company—Insurance, Pension Plans and Certificated Savings Plans.”

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Results of Operations for Year Ended December 31, 2008 compared with the Year Ended December 31, 2007

     The following tables set forth the principal components of our net income for 2008 and 2007, on a company-wide basis and by segment:

    Consolidated 
   
    2007    2008    Percentage 
change 
       
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Net interest income    R$23,771    R$25,371    6.7% 
Provision for loan losses    (4,616)   (6,651)   44.1 
Non–interest income    23,881    23,495   
(1.6) 
Non–interest expense    (31,739)   (35,467)   11.7 
       
Income before income taxes and minority interests    11,297    6,748    (40.3)
Income tax and social contribution    (3,352)   401   
– 
       
Income before minority interest    7,945    7,149    (10.0)
Minority interest    (37)   (131)   254.1 
       
Net income    R$7,908    R$7,018    (11.3)% 
       

    Banking    Insurance, Pension Plans and 
Certificated Savings Plans 
     
     2007    2008    % Change    2007    2008    % Change 
             
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Net interest income    R$17,188    R$19,054    10.9%    R$6,577    R$6,295    (4.3)% 
Provision for loan losses    (4,617)   (6,651)   44.1    –     
– 
Non–interest income    12,403    10,447    (15.8)   11,292    12,932    14.5 
Non–interest expense    (18,270)   (20,503)   12.2    (13,949)   (14,901)   6.8 
             
Income before income taxes and minority interests    6,704    2,347    (65.0)   3,920    4,326    10.4 
Income tax and social contribution    (1,877)   1,970      (1,287)   (1,545)   20.0 
             
Income before minority interest    4,827    4,317    (10.6)   2,633    2,781    5.6 
Minority interest    (28)   (42)   50.0    (19)   (89)   368.4 
             
Net income    R$4,799    R$4,275    (10.9)%    R$2,614    R$2,692    3.0% 
             

Net Interest Income

     The following table shows the principal components of our net interest income before provision for loan losses for 2007 and 2008, on a company-wide basis and by segment:

    Consolidated    Banking    Insurance, Pension Plans and 
Certificated Savings Plans 
       
    2007    2008    % Change    2007    2008    % Change    2007    2008    Percentage 
Change 
                   
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Interest income    R$36,509    R$53,803    47.4%    R$29,940    R$47,936    60.1%    R$6,577    R$6,295    (4.3)% 
Interest expense    (12,738)   (28,432)   123.2    (12,752)   (28,882)   126.5    –     
                   
 
Net interest income    R$23,771    R$25,371    6.7%    R$17,188    R$19,054    10.9%    R$6,577    R$6,295    (4.3)% 
                   

     The following table shows, on a company-wide basis and by segment, how much of the increase in our net interest income was attributable to changes in the average volume of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, and how much was attributable to changes in average interest rates (including the effects of the appreciation/depreciation of the real) in each case for 2008 and 2007:

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    Consolidated    Banking    Insurance, 
Pension Plans 
and Certificated 
Savings Plans 
       
    2008/2007 
   
    Increase (decrease)
(R$ in millions)
Due to changes in average volume of interest-earning assets and interest- bearing liabilities    R$7,291    R$6,527    R$916 
Due to changes in average interest rates    (5,691)   (4,661)   (1,198)
       
 
Net change    R$1,600    R$1,866    R$(282)

Banking

     Our net interest income increased by 10.9% from R$17,188 million in 2007 to R$19,054 million in 2008. This increase was mainly due to a 41.1% increase in the average volume of interest-earning assets, which in turn was mainly due to a 38.8% increase in the average volume of outstanding loans, a 40.9% increase in the average volume of federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell and a 74.8% increase in trading securities. The increase in our net interest income was partially offset by a 44.0% increase in the average volume of interest-bearing liabilities, which in turn was mainly due to an increase of 80.9% in time deposits, 44.3% increase in federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase, a 25.2% increase in long-term debt and a 19.3% increase in savings deposits.

     As a percentage of average interest-earning assets, our net interest income decreased from 9.4% in 2007 to 7.4% in 2008. This decrease was mainly due to market volatility, a decrease in our operations’ spread and an increase in the average volume of interest-bearing assets.

Insurance, Pension Plans and Certificated Savings Plans

     Our net interest income decreased by 4.3% from R$6,577 million in 2007 to R$6,295 million in 2008. This decrease was mainly due to a 12.6% decrease in interest earned on trading securities, which in turn was mainly due to a higher volatility in the financial and capital markets in the second half of 2008. This decrease was partially offset by a 17.5% increase in our average balance of trading securities and a 10.0% increase in our average balance of securities available-for-sale, which in turn was mainly due to an increase in funds from sales of our pension investment contracts VGBL and PGBL in 2008.

     As a percentage of average interest-earning assets, our net interest income decreased from 11.0% in 2007 to 9.2% in 2008.

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Interest Income

     The following tables show, on a company-wide basis and by segment, the average balance of the principal components of our average interest-earning assets and the average interest rates earned in 2008 and 2007:

    Consolidated 
   
    2007    2008    % Change 
       
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Average balance of interest-earning assets:             
Loans    R$105,470    R$146,404    38.8% 
Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell    33,299    46,893    40.8 
Trading securities    52,787    72,789    37.9 
Available-for-sale securities    21,760    24,727    13.6 
Held to maturity securities    2,762    3,458    25.2 
Interest earning deposits in other banks    7,635    8,360    9.5 
Central Bank compulsory deposits    18,858    24,590    30.4 
Other interest-earning assets    716    648    (9.5)
       
 
Total    R$243,287    R$327,869    34.8% 
       
 
Average interest rate earned    15.0%    16.4%     

    Banking    Insurance, Pension Plans and
Certificated Savings Plans
 
     
    2007    2008    % Change    2007    2008    % Change 
             
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Average balance of interest– earning assets:                         
Loans    R$105,470    R$146,404    38.8%    –    –   
– 
Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell    30,346    42,746    40.9    R$2,953    R$3,456    17.0% 
Trading securities    18,590    32,501    74.8    34,143    40,123    17.5 
Available–for–sale securities    2,541    3,358    32.2    19,219    21,144    10.0 
Held to maturity securities    479    707    47.6    2,283    2,751    20.5 
Interest earning deposits in other banks    6,389    7,740    21.1    1,246    620    (50.2)
Central Bank compulsory deposits    18,858    24,590    30.4    –    –    – 
Other interest–earning assets    716    648    (9.5)   –    –    – 
             
 
Total    R$183,389    R$258,694    41.1%    59,844    R$68,094    13.8% 
             
 
Average interest rate    16.3%    18.5%        11.0%   
9.2% 
   

     For further information about average interest rates by type of assets, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—Selected Statistical Information—Average Balance Sheet and Interest Rate Data.”

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     The following table shows, on a company-wide basis and by segment, how much of the increase in our interest income was attributable to changes in the average volume of interest-earning assets, and how much was attributable to changes in average interest rates (including the effects of the fluctuation of the real), in each case for the year 2008 as compared to the year 2007:

    Consolidated    Banking    Insurance, 
Pension Plans 
and Certificated 
Savings Plans 
       
    2008/2007 
Increase (reduction)
(R$ in millions)
 
Due to changes in average volume of interest-earning assets    R$13,946    R$13,254    R$916 
Due to changes in average interest rates    3,348    4,742    (1,198)
       
 
Net change    R$17,294    R$17,996    R$(282)
       

Banking

     Our interest income increased by 60.1% from R$29,940 million in 2007 to R$47,936 million in 2008. This increase was mainly due to an increase in interest income from loan transactions, an increase in revenues from federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell and an increase in trading securities.

     Our interest income from loan transactions increased by 48.9% from R$22,608 million in 2007 to R$33,662 million in 2008. This increase was mainly due to a 38.8% increase in the average balance of loans from R$105,470 million in 2007 to R$146,404 million in 2008, which in turn was mainly due to (i) an increase in personal loans, mainly in the “Leasing” and “Personal Credit” lines, as a result of our strategy to expand our loan transactions, as we take advantage of growing consumption in Brazil, and (ii) an increase in the volume of loan to corporate clients, mainly “Foreign Transactions,” “Leasing” and “Working Capital” lines, as a result of the growth in Brazilian economy. The increase in loan transactions was affected by the economic crisis during the fourth quarter of 2008.

     Our interest income from federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell increased by 101.9% from R$3,202 million in 2007 to R$6,465 million in 2008. This increase was mainly due to an increase in the average volume of such operations, R$30,346 million in 2007 to R$42,746 million in 2008, which in turn was mainly due to an increase in funded status.

     Our interest income from trading securities increased by 146.6% from R$1,701 million in 2007 to R$4,194 million in 2008. This increase was mainly due to an increase in the average volume in trading securities from R$18,590 million in 2007 to R$32,501 million in 2008.

Insurance, Pension Plans and Certificated Savings Plans

     Our interest income decreased by 4.3% from R$6,577 million in 2007 to R$6,295 million in 2008. This decrease was mainly due a 12.6% decrease in our interest income from trading securities, which in turn was due to a higher volatility in the financial and capital markets in the second half of 2008. This decrease was partially offset by a 17.5% increase in the average balance of our trading securities and a 10.0% increase in our available-for-sale securities, which in turn was mainly due to an increase in funds from sales of our pension investment contracts VGBL and PGBL in 2008.


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Interest Expense

     The following table shows the principal components of our average interest-bearing liabilities and the average interest rates paid on those liabilities in 2008 and 2007, all of which are in the banking segment:

    Consolidated 
   
    2007    2008    % Change 
       
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Average balance of interest-bearing liabilities:             
Savings deposits    R$28,958    R$34,538       19.3% 
Time deposits    34,388    62,233       81.0 
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase    51,384    74,139       44.3 
Short-term borrowings    6,892    10,252       48.8 
Long-term debt    32,305    40,445       25.2 
Deposits from banks    223    404       81.2 
       
 
Total    R$154,150    R$222,011       44.0% 
       
 
Average interest rate paid:    8.3%    12.8%     

    Banking    Insurance, Pension Plans and 
Certificated Savings Plans 
     
    2007    2008    % Change    2007    2008    % Change 
             
    (R$ in millions, except %)
                         
Average balance of interest–bearing liabilities:                         
Savings deposits    R$28,958    R$34,538     19.3%       –    –    – 
Time deposits    34,411    62,233     80.9       –    –    – 
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase    51,384    74,139     44.3       –    –    – 
Short–term borrowings    6,892    10,252     48.8       –    –    – 
Long–term debt    32,305    40,445     25.2       –    –    – 
Deposits from financial institutions    223    404     81.2       –    –    – 
             
 
Total    R$154,173    R$222,011     44.0%                
             
 
Average interest rate paid           8.3%    13.0%                    

     For further information on average interest rates by type of liability, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—Selected Statistical Information—Average Balance Sheet and Interest Rate Data.”

     The following table shows, on a company-wide basis and by segment, how much of the increase in our interest expense was attributable to changes in the average volume of interest-bearing liabilities and how much was attributable to changes in average interest rates (including the effects of the fluctuation of the real), in each case, for 2008 as compared to 2007:

    Consolidated    Banking    Insurance, 
Pension Plans 
and Certificated 
Savings Plans 
       
    2008/2007 
Increase (reduction)
(R$ in millions)
Due to changes in average volume of interest-bearing liabilities    R$6,655    R$6,727    - 
Due to changes in average interest rates    9,039    9,403    - 
       
 
Net change    R$15,694    R$16,130    - 
       

139


Banking

     Our interest expense increased by 126.5% from R$12.752 million in 2007 to R$28.882 million in 2008. This increase was mainly due a 44.0% increase in the average volume of interest-bearing liabilities, which in turn was mainly due to a 80.9% increase in our average balance of time deposits from R$34,411 million in 2007 to R$62,233 million in 2008, and a 44.3% increase in federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase from R$51,384 million in 2007 to R$74,139 million in 2008.

Provision for Loan Losses

     The following table shows changes in our allowance for loan losses, provision for loan losses, loan charge-offs and loan recoveries for the years ended 2008 and 2007, as well as our provisions-to-loans ratio (provisions as a percentage of the average balance of our loans):

    2007    2008    % Change 
       
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Allowance for loan losses at the beginning of the year    R$6,552    R$7,769    18.6% 
Provisions for loan losses    4,616    6,651    44.1 
Loan charge-offs    (4,281)   (5,345)   24.9 
Loan recoveries    882    1,243    40.9 
       
Allowance for loan losses at the end of the year    R$7,769    R$10,318    32.8% 
       
Ratio of provision for loan losses to average loans outstanding    4.4%    4.5%     

     Our allowance for loan losses increased by 32.8% from R$7,769 million in 2007 to R$10,318 million in 2008. This increase was mainly due to:

     The calculation of allowance for loan losses comprises an individual analysis of impaired loans and aggregate loss analysis for groups of homogenous loans, as follows:

    December 31,     
     
    2007    2008 
     
 
Impaired loans    R$187    R$538 
Homogenous loan losses    R$7,582    R$9,780 
Total    R$7,769    R$10,318 
     

Despite the total increase in allowance for loan losses, the ratio of allowance for homogenous loan losses to total loans (including non-performing loans) changed slightly from 5.7% in 2007 to 5.6% in 2008. The main reason for the stability of the ratio is that, although the year of 2008 (particularly the second half) was characterized by higher volatility in the financial and capital markets, the increase of our total amount of allowance for loan losses in 2008 was mainly due to the increase in the volume of our outstanding loans. The increase in our commercial loans to coproations portfolio was higher than the increase on our loans to individuals portfolio. Based on our past experience, commercial loans to corporations perform better than loans to individuals, demanding lower levels of provisions for loans.

     Our level of annual loan losses, calculated as the value of loan charge-offs as a percentage of the average balance of outstanding loans, decreased from 4.1% in 2007 to 3.7% in 2008. Recoveries of non-performing loans increased by 40.9% and loan charge-offs increased by 24.9% as compared to 2007. In 2008, the provision for loan losses increased by 44.1% as compared to 2007. The increase in the allowance for loan losses increased the level of our expenses with allowance for loan losses for outstanding loans by 5.8% as of December 31, 2007 to 5.9% as of December 31, 2008.


140


     We believe that our current allowance for loan losses is sufficient to cover probable losses associated with our portfolio. For more information, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—Selected Statistical Information—Credit Operations—Charge-offs” and “Item 4. Information on the Company—Selected Statistical Information—Non-performing Loans and Allowance for Loan Losses.”

     We believe that the amount of, and the variation in, our allowance for loan losses, as a percentage of the total portfolio, are consistent with our historical experience with delinquency ratios, charge-offs and net losses. Adjustments in the quality of our loan portfolio were the most significant component to determining our allowances for loan losses than any change or trend in non-performing loans.

     Commercial loans to corporations had a better performance than those to individuals in 2008, mainly foreign trade-oriented transactions, export transactions, transactions with our branches and offices abroad, and working capital transactions. In the corporate segment, loans classified as “industrial and other loans” increased by 39.9% as a percentage of our loan portfolio from 34.2% in 2007 to 36.5% in 2008. This decrease was mainly due to an increase in the loan to large companies.

     Loans to individuals were also adversely affected by the volatility in the financial and capital markets in the second half of 2008. Credit classified as “other financing” decreased by 9.2%, mainly due to a decrease in other types of loans. Credit classified as “other financing” represented 21.4% of our total loan operations in 2008, compared with 31.0% in 2007. Financing and leasing operations, basically for vehicles, increased by 150.2%, from 6.2% of the total of outstanding loans in 2007 to 11.8% in 2008, which was mainly due to a higher demand for this type of credit.

     For a description of the Central Bank’s regulation of lending operations, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—Regulation and Supervision—Treatment of Overdue Debts” and note 2(j) to our consolidated financial statements in Item 18.

Non-interest Income

     The following tables show, on a company-wide basis and by segment, the principal components of our non-interest income for 2007 and 2008.

    Consolidated 
   
    2007    2008    % Change 
       
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Fee and commission income    R$7,819    R$8,997    15.1% 
Net trading gains (losses)   3,694    (371)  
Net realized gains on available-for-sale securities    1,456    609    (58.2)
Equity in the earnings of unconsolidated companies    407    597    46.7 
Insurance premiums    8,843    10,963    24.0 
Pension plan income    555    710    27.9 
Other non-interest income    1,107    1,990    79.8 
       
 
Total    23,881    R$ 23,495    (1.6)% 
       

141


    Banking    Insurance, Pension Plans and 
Certificated Savings Plans 
     
    2007     2008    % Change    2007    2008    % Change 
             
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Fee and commission income    R$6,994    R$7,883    12.7%    R$712    R$972    36.5% 
Net gains (losses) on trading securities    3,585    (225)     60    (146)  
Net realized gains on available–for–sale securities    425    341    (19.8)   1,016    268    (73.6)
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated companies    451    554    22.8    (39)   42   
Insurance premiums    –        8,843    10,963    24.0 
Pension plan income    –        555    710    (27.9 
Other non–interest income    948    1,894    99.8    145    123    (15.2)
             
 
Total    R$12,403    R$10,447    (15.8)%    R$11,292    R$12,932    14.5% 
             

Banking

     Our non-interest income decreased by 15.8% from R$12,403 million in 2007 to R$10,447 million in 2008. This decrease was mainly due to a decrease in our trading securities given market volatility during the second half of 2008, and which was partially offset by an increase in the fee and commission income, which in turn was mainly due to an increase in our income from credit card transactions.

Insurance, Pension Plans and Certificated Savings Plans

     Our non-interest income increased by 14.5% from R$11,292 million in 2007 to R$12,932 million in 2008. This increase was mainly due to a 24.0% increase in income from insurance premiums from R$8,843 million in 2007 to R$10,963 million in 2008, which in turn was mainly due to an increase in the volume of life and health insurance products sold. This increase was partially offset by a decrease in net gains on trading securities, which in turn was due to the volatility in the financial and capital markets in the second half of 2008.

Non-interest Expense

     The following tables show, on a company-wide and per segment basis, the principal components of our non-interest expense for 2007 and 2008:

    Consolidated 
   
    2007    2008    % Change 
       
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Salaries and benefits    R$(6,769)   R$(6,880)   1.6% 
Administrative expenses    (6,236)   (7,288)   16.9 
Amortization of intangible assets    (620)   (802)   29.4 
Insurance claims    (6,012)   (7,391)   22.9 
Changes in provisions for insurance, pension plans, certificated savings plans and pension investment contracts    (4,981)   (4,225)   (15.2)
Pension plan operating expenses    (478)   (482)   (0.8)
Insurance and pension plan selling expenses    (1,157)   (1,014)   (12.4)
Depreciation and amortization    (746)   (881)   18.1 
Other non-interest expense    (4,740)   (6,504)   37.2 
       
 
Total    R$(31,739)   R$(35,467)   11.7% 
       

142


    Banking    Insurance, Pension Plans and 
Certificated Savings Plans 
     
    2007    2008    % Change    2007    2008    % Change 
             
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Salaries and benefits    R$(6,094)   R$(6,130)   0.6%    R$(510)   R$(570)   11.8% 
Administrative expenses    (5,856)   (6,873)   17.4    (585)   (682)   16.6 
Amortization of intangible assets    (616)   (799)   29.7    (4)   (3)   (25.0)
Insurance claims    –        (6,013)   (7,391)   22.9 
Changes in provisions for insurance, pension plans, certificated savings plans and pension investment contracts    –        (4,981)   (4,225)   (15.2)
Pension plan operating expenses    –        (478)   (482)   (0.8)
Insurance and pension plan selling expenses    –        (1,157)   (1,014)   (12.4)
Depreciation and amortization    (694)   (820)   18.2    (49)   (59)   20.4 
Other non–interest expense    (5,010)   (5,881)   17.4    (172)   (475)   176.2 
             
 
Total    R$(18,270)   R$(20,503)   12.2%    R$(13,949)   R$(14,901)   6.8% 
             

Banking

     Our non-interest expense increased by 12.2% from R$18,270 million in 2007 to R$20,503 million in 2008. This increase was mainly due to a 17.4% increase in our administrative expenses from R$5,856 million in 2007 to R$6,873 million in 2008, which in turn was mainly due to the expansion of our services, an increase in the volume of our banking business and investments to improve our technology systems.

Insurance, Pension Plans and Certificated Savings Plans

     Our non-interest expense increased by 6.8% from R$13,949 million in 2007 to R$14,901 million in 2008. This increase was mainly due to an increase in our insurance claims from R$6,013 million in 2007 to R$7,391 million in 2008, which in turn was mainly due to an increase in sales and, accordingly, in the volume of claims. Our insurance lines that presented more claims were: (i) health with R$989 million, (ii) life with R$209 million, of which R$100 million corresponds to the expansion of claims incurred but not reported rate from five to seven years; (iii) basic lines with R$72 million, of which R$40 million corresponds to losses from the floodings in the State of Santa Catarina; and (iv) vehicles with R$20 million.

Taxes on Income

     Taxes on income in Brazil consist of federal income taxes and the social contribution tax on adjusted income. See “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Overview—Taxes.” The combined rate of these two taxes was 34.0% until April 2008. As of May 2008, the combined rate increased to 40%, due to an increase in social contribution rate on adjusted net income from 9% to 15%.

     Income tax expenses decreased from R$3,352 million in 2007 to a revenue of R$401 million in 2008. This variation was mainly due to the increase in the social contribution rate from 9% to 15%, generating R$1,240 million in revenue, and the foreign exchange losses on investments abroad, generating R$803 million in revenue, as well as by the increase in our tax basis due to reduced gains in securities.

     As a percentage of our income before income taxes and minority interests, adjusted for nontaxable income of unconsolidated companies, taxes on income changed from an expense of 30.8% in 2007 to an income of 2.3% in 2008.

Net Income

     As a result of the foregoing, our net income decreased by 11.3% from R$7,908 million for 2007 to R$7,018 million for 2008.


143


Results of Operations for Year Ended December 31, 2007 Compared with the Year Ended December 31, 2006

     The following tables set forth the principal components of our net income for 2007 and 2006, on a company-wide basis and by segment:

    Consolidated 
   
    2006    2007    % change 
       
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Net interest income    R$21,402    R$23,771    11.1% 
Provision for loan losses    (3,767)   (4,616)   22.5 
Non-interest income    19,853    23,881    20.3 
Non-interest expense    (28,738)   (31,739)   10.4 
Income before income taxes and minority interests    8,750    11,297    29.1 
Income tax and social contribution    (2,273)   (3,352)   47.5 
Income before minority interest    6,477    7,945    22.7 
Minority interest    (15)   (37)   146.7 
       
Net income    R$6,462    R$7,908    22.4% 
       

    Banking    Insurance, Pension Plans and 
Certificated Savings Plans 
     
    2006    2007    % Change    2006    2007    % Change 
             
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Net interest income    R$14,750    R$17,188    16.5%    R$6,476    R$6,577    1.6% 
Provision for loan losses    (3,770)   (4,617)   22.5       
Non–interest income    9,482    12,403    30.8    10,307    11,292    9.6 
Non–interest expense    (15,289)   (18,270)   19.5    (13,407)   (13,949)   4.0 
Income before income taxes and minority interests    5,173    6,704    29.6    3,376    3,920    16.1 
             
Income tax and social contribution    (1,348)   (1,877)   39.2    (918)   (1,287)   40.2 
Income before minority interest    3,825    4,827    26.2    2,458    2,633    7.1 
             
Minority interest      (28)     (16)   (19)   18.8 
Net income    R$3,826    R$4,799    25.4%    R$2,442    R$2,614    7.0% 
             

Net Interest Income

     The following table shows the principal components of our net interest income before provision for loan losses for 2006 and 2007, on a company-wide basis and by segment:

    Consolidated    Banking    Insurance, Pension Plans and 
Certificated Savings Plans 
       
    2006    2007    % Change    2006    2007    % Change    2006    2007    % Change 
                   
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Interest income    R$34,271    R$36,509    6.5%    R$27,794    R$29,940    7.7%    R$6,476    R$6,577    1.6% 
Interest expense    (12,869)   (12,738)   (1.0)   (13,044)   (12,752)   (2.2)   –     
                   
Net interest income    R$21,402    R$23,771    11.1%    R$14,750    R$17,188    16.5%    R$6,476    R$6,577    1.6% 
                   

     The following table shows, on a company-wide basis and by segment, how much of the increase in our net interest income was attributable to changes in the average volume of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, and how much was attributable to changes in average interest rates (including the effects of the appreciation of the real) in each case for the year 2007 as compared to the year 2006:

144


    Consolidated    Banking    Insurance, 
Pension Plans 
and Certificated 
Savings Plans 
       
    2007/2006 
   
    Increase (decrease)
(R$ in millions)
Due to changes in average volume of interest-earning assets and interest- bearing liabilities    R$4,529    R$2,617    R$1,401 
Due to changes in average interest rates    (2,160)   (179)   (1,300)
       
Net change    R$2,369    R$2,438    R$101 
       

Banking

     Our net interest income increased by 16.5% from R$14,750 million in 2006 to R$17,188 million in 2007. This increase was mainly due to a 28.2% increase in the average volume of interest-earning assets, which in turn was mainly due to a 19.8% increase in the average volume of outstanding loans, a 126.8% increase in the average volume of federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell and a 47.2% increase in trading securities. This increase was partially offset by a 27.3% increase in the average volume of interest-bearing liabilities, which in turn was mainly due to a 84.7% increase in the average volume of federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase, a 18.4% increase in long-term debt, a 13.2% increase in savings deposits and a decrease in the average interest rate from 15.0% for 2006 to 11.8% for 2007.

     As a percentage of average interest-earning assets, our net interest income decreased from 10.3% in 2006 to 9.4% in 2007.

Insurance, Pension Plans and Certificated Savings Plans

     Our net interest income increased by 1.6% from R$6,476 million in 2006 to R$6,577 million in 2007. This increase was mainly due to a 20.9% increase in the average volume of interest-earning assets, which in turn was mainly due to a 60.7% increase in our average balance of available-for-sale securities and a 16.5% increase in our trading securities. These increases were mainly due to an increase in funds from sales of our pension investment contracts VGBL and PGBL in 2007. This increase was partially offset by a R$1,300 million decrease due to a decrease in the average interest rates from 15.0% in 2006 to 11.8% in 2007.

     As a percentage of average interest-earning assets, our net interest income decreased from 13.1% in 2006 to 11.0% in 2007.

Interest Income

     The following tables show, on a company-wide basis and by segment, the average balance of the principal components of our average interest-earning assets and the average interest rates earned in 2007 and 2006:

    Consolidated 
   
    2006    2007    % Change 
       
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Average balance of interest-earning assets:             
Loans    R$88,044    R$105,470       19.8% 
Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell    13,378    33,299     148.9 
Trading securities    41,999    52,787    25.7 
Available-for-sale securities    15,980    21,760    36.2 
Held to maturity securities    4,122    2,762    (33.0)
Interest earning deposits in other banks    11,945    7,635    (36.1)
Compulsory deposits with Central Bank    16,251    18,858    16.0 
Other interest-earning assets    886    716    (19.2)
       
 
Total    R$192,605    R$243,287    26.3% 
       
 
Average interest rate earned    17.8%    15.0%     

145



    Banking    Insurance, Pension Plans and 
Certificated Savings Plans 
     
    2006    2007    % Change    2006    2007    % Change 
             
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Average balance of interest–earning assets:                         
Loans    R$88,044    R$105,470    19.8%         
Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell    13,378    30,346    126.8      R$ 2,953   
Trading securities    12,631    18,590    47.2    R$ 29,314    34,143    16.5% 
Available–for–sale securities    4,024    2,541    (36.8)   11,956    19,219    60.7 
Held to maturity securities    955    479    (49.8)   3,167    2,283    (27.9)
Interest earning deposits in other banks    6,865    6,389     (6.9)   5,080    1,246    (75.5)
Central Bank compulsory deposits    16,251    18,858    16.0       
Other interest–earning assets    886    716    (19.2)      
 
Total    R$143,034    R$183,389    28.2%    R$ 49,517    R$ 59,844    20.9% 
             
 
 
Average interest rate    19.4%    16.3%         13.1%    11.0%     

     For further information about average interest rates by type of assets, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—Selected Statistical Information—Average Balance Sheet and Interest Rate Data.”

     The following table shows, on a company-wide basis and by segment, how much of the increase in our interest income was attributable to changes in the average volume of interest-earning assets, and how much was attributable to changes in average interest rates (including the effects of the appreciation of the real), in each case for the year 2007 as compared to the year 2006:

    Consolidated    Banking    Insurance, 
Pension Plans 
and Certificated 
Savings Plans 
       
    2007/2006 
   
    Increase (decrease)
(R$ in millions)
Due to changes in average volume of interest-earning assets    R$8,185    R$6,326    R$1,401 
Due to changes in average interest rates    (5,947)   (4,180)   (1,300)
 
Net change    R$2,238    R$2,146    R$101 
       

Banking

     Our interest income increased by 7.7% from R$27,794 million in 2006 to R$29,940 million in 2007, which was mainly due to an increase in interest income from outstanding loans and in the average volume of federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell, which in turn was partially offset by Central Bank compulsory deposits.

     Our interest income from outstanding loans increased by 7.8% from R$20,977 million in 2006 to R$22,608 million in 2007. This increase was mainly due to a 19.8% increase in the average balance of outstanding loans from R$88,044 million in 2006 to R$105,470 million in 2007, which in turn was mainly due to (i) an increase in personal loans, mainly in the “automobile” and “personal credit” lines, as a result of our strategy of expanding our credit operations to the advantage of increasing consumption in Brazil, and (ii) an increase loans to corporate clients, mainly the “foreign transactions,” “BNDES on-lendings” and “working capital” lines, as a result of the growth in the Brazilian economy. This increase was partially offset by a 17.1% appreciation of the real in 2007, which impacted our transactions denominated in, or indexed to, foreign currencies.


146


     Our interest income from federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell increased by 47.1% from R$2,177 million in 2006 to R$3,202 million in 2007. This increase was mainly due to an increase in such operations from R$13,378 million in 2006 to R$30,346 million in 2007, which was in turn mainly due to an increase in third-party portfolio position transactions.

     Our interest income from Central Bank compulsory deposits decreased by 39.6% from R$1,998 million in 2006 to R$1,207 million in 2007. This decrease was mainly due to a decrease in average interest rates from 15.0% in 2006 to 11.8% in 2007.

Insurance, Pension Plans and Certificated Savings Plans

     Our interest income increased by 1.6% from R$6,476 million in 2006 to R$6,577 million in 2007. This increase was mainly due to a 20.9% increase in the average volume of the interest-earning assets, which in turn was mainly due to a 60.7% increase in the average balance of our available-for-sale securities and a 16.5% increase in trading securities, which was in turn mainly due to an increase in funds from sales of our pension investment contracts VGBL and PGBL in 2007. This increase was partially offset by a reduction in average interest rates from 15.0% in 2006 to 11.8% in 2007.

Interest Expense

     The following table shows the principal components of our average interest-bearing liabilities and the average interest rates paid on those liabilities in 2006 and 2007, all of which are in the banking segment:

    Consolidated 
   
    2006         2007    % Change 
       
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Average balance of interest-bearing liabilities:             
Savings deposits    R$25,590    R$28,958    13.2% 
Time deposits    34,461    34,388    (0.2)
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase    27,821    51,384    84.7 
Short-term borrowings    5,741    6,892    20.0 
Long-term debt    27,289    32,305    18.4 
Deposits from banks    143    223    55.9 
       
 
Total    R$121,045    R$154,150    27.3% 
       
 
Average interest rate paid:    10.6%    8.3%     

    Banking    Insurance, Pension Plans and 
Certificated Savings Plans 
     
    2006    2007    % Change    2006    2007    % Change 
             
    (R$ in millions, except %)
                         
Average balance of interest–bearing liabilities:                         
Savings deposits    R$25,590    R$28,958    13.2%    –    –    – 
Time deposits    34,484    34,411    (0.2)   –    –    – 
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase    27,821    51,384    84.7    –    –    – 
Short–term borrowings    5,741    6,892    20.0    –    –    – 
Long–term debt    27,289    32,305    18.4    –    –    – 
Deposits from financial institutions    143    223    55.9    –    –    – 
             
 
Total    R$121,068    R$154,173    27.3%    –         
             
 
Average interest rate paid    10.8%    8.3%        –         

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     For further information on average interest rates by type of liability, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—Selected Statistical Information—Average Balance Sheet and Interest Rate Data.”

     The following table shows, on a company-wide basis and by segment, how much of the increase in our interest expense was attributable to changes in the average volume of interest-bearing liabilities and how much was attributable to changes in average interest rates (including the effects of the appreciation of the real), in each case, for 2007 as compared to 2006:

    Consolidated    Banking    Insurance, 
Pension Plans 
and Certificated 
Savings Plans 
       
    2007/2006
Increase(decrease)
(R$ in millions)
Due to changes in average volume of interest–bearing liabilities    R$3,656    R$3,709    – 
Due to changes in average interest rates    (3,787)   (4,001)   – 
       
 
Net change    R$(131)   R$(292)   – 
       

Banking

     Our interest expense decreased by 2.2% from R$13,044 million in 2006 to R$12,752 in 2007. This decrease was mainly due to a decrease in average interest rates from 15.0% in 2006 to 11.8% in 2007, and an increase in the negative exchange rate variation from 8.7% in 2006 to 17.2% in 2007, which in turn affected our transactions denominated in, or indexed to, foreign currencies. This decrease was partially offset by (i) a 84.7% increase in the average balance of our federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase from R$27,821 million in 2006 to R$51,384 million in 2007, and (ii) a 13.2% increase in the average balance of savings deposits from R$25,590 million in 2006 to R$28,958 million in 2007.

Allowance for Loan Losses

     The following table shows changes in our allowance for loan losses, provision for loan losses, loan charge-offs and loan recoveries for the years ended 2007 and 2006, as well as our provisions-to-loans ratio (provisions as a percentage of the average balance of our loans):

    2006    2007    % Change 
       
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Allowance for loan losses at the beginning of the year    R$4,964    R$6,552    32.0% 
Provisions for loan losses    3,767    4,616    22.5 
Loan charge-offs    (2,816)   (4,281)   52.0 
Loan recoveries    637    882    38.5 
       
Allowance for loan losses at the end of the year    R$6,552    R$7,769    18.6% 
       
Ratio of provision for loan losses to average loans outstanding    4.3%    4.4%     

     Our allowance for loan losses increased by 18.6% from R$6,552 million in 2006 to R$7,769 million in 2007. This increase was mainly due to a 19.8% increase in our average balance of outstanding loans.

     The year of 2007 was characterized by the continuing favorable period in the Brazilian economy. The favorable macroeconomic and credit environment, with the increase in minimum wages, the decrease in average interest rates and longer terms for loans and financing have a positive effect on the volume of our credit portfolio.

     The Brazilian economy performed well during 2007, largely due to the implementation of fiscal and monetary austerity policies by the Federal Government in the past years. Our level of annual loan losses, calculated as the value of loan charge-offs as a percentage of the total average balance of outstanding loans, increased from 3.2% in 2006 to 4.1% in 2007. Recoveries of non-performing loans increased by 38.5%, and loan charge-offs increased by 52.0% as compared to 2006. During 2007, our provision for loan losses increased by 22.5% as compared to 2006, in line with the increase in the portfolio and the change in our portfolio mix, with an increase in products for individuals and retail in general, which is characterized by the need of a higher level of provisions as compared to the middle market and corporate segment. Our levels of provision for loan losses decreased from 6.6% in 2006 to 5.8% in 2007, in terms of our credit portfolio.


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     Our clients’ ability to perform their obligations in light of the continuation of the positive Brazilian economy scenario, as well as our own increased selectivity in granting loans, is reflected in improvements in the risk classifications of our loan portfolio. The percentage of loans that we classify in the four lowest risk classifications, none of them considered as being of “abnormal course,” was 94.0% as of December 31, 2007, and 93.1% as of December 31, 2006. The percentage of loans that we classify in the two lowest risk classifications represented 66.4% of the total outstanding loans as of December 31, 2007 and 67.8% as of December 31, 2006.

     We believe that our current allowance for loan losses is sufficient to cover probable losses associated to our portfolio. For more information, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—Selected Statistical Information—Credit Operations—Charge-offs” and “—Non-performing Loans and Allowance for Loan Losses.” We believe that the amount of, and changes in, our allowance for loan losses, as a percentage of the total portfolio, are consistent with our historical experience with delinquency ratios, charge-offs and net losses.

     In 2006 and 2007, our loan portfolio growth strategy focused on extending personal loans, mainly automobile financing and personal financing to individuals, because such loans historically have had a better rate of return than loans to companies, although such loans do have higher average rates of default. Our strategy is reflected in the growth of our “financings” account, which includes loans only to individuals, which increased by 37.4% in 2007, remaining in line with its percentage of our total credit portfolio has decreased from 30.4% in 2006 to 31.0% in 2007.

     The expansion of loans to individuals was due mainly to our strategy of increasing our presence in the retail market, through our efforts to estimate the organic growth of our portfolio.

     Adjustments in the quality of our loan portfolio were the most significant component to determining our allowances for loan losses than any change or trend in non-performing loans.

     Commercial loans to corporations, in particular those aimed at foreign markets and transactions (such as including foreign trade, export transactions and transactions with our branches and offices abroad) performed well in 2007. In the corporate segment, loans classified as “industrial and other loans” continued with its percentage of our loan portfolio despite a 35.2% increase, mainly due to an increase in loans to large companies as a result of the stability of the Brazilian economy.

     For a description of the Central Bank’s regulation of lending operations, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—Regulation and Supervision—Treatment of Overdue Debts” and note 2(j) to our consolidated financial statements in Item 18.

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Non-interest Income

     The following tables show, on a company-wide basis and by segment, the principal components of our non-interest income for 2006 and 2007.

    Consolidated 
   
    2006    2007    % Change 
       
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Fee and commission income    R$6,379    R$7,819    22.6% 
Net trading gains    2,360    3,694    56.5 
Net realized gains on available-for-sale securities    1,157    1,456    25.8 
Equity in the earnings of unconsolidated companies    224    407    81.7 
Insurance premiums    8,121    8,843    8.9 
Pension plan income    791    555    (29.8)
Other non-interest income    821    1,107    34.8 
       
 
Total    R$19,853    R$23,881    20.3% 
       

    Banking    Insurance, Pension Plans and 
Certificated Savings Plans 
     
    2006     2007    % Change    2006    2007    % Change 
             
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Fee and commission income    R$5,750    R$6,994    21.6%    R$552    R$712    29.0% 
Net trading gains (losses)   2,348    3,585    52.7    12    60    400.0 
Net realized gains on available-for-sale securities    520    425    (18.3)   627    1,016    62.0 
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated companies    157    451    187.3    64    (39)   (160.9)
Insurance premiums          8,121    8,843    8.9 
Pension plan income          791    555    (29.8)
Other non-interest income    707    948    34.1    140    145     3.6 
             
 
Total    R$9,482    R$12,403    30.8%    R$10,307    R$11,292     9.6% 
             

Banking

     Our non-interest income increased by 30.8% from R$9,482 million in 2006 to R$12,403 million in 2007. This increase was mainly due to an increase in our fee and commission income and net trading gains.

     Our fee and commission income increased by 21.6% from R$5,750 million in 2006 to R$6,994 million in 2007, which was mainly due to an increase in the average volume of outstanding loans and an increase in our client portfolio, mainly in the credit card segment.

     Our net trading gains increased by 52.7% from R$2,348 million in 2006 to R$3,585 million in 2007. This increase was mainly due to the better results we obtained from our treasury operations and securities trading.

Insurance, Pension Plans and Certificated Savings Plans

     Our non-interest income increased by 9.6% from R$10,307 million in 2006 to R$11,292 million in 2007. This increase was mainly due to an increase in income from insurance premiums and net trading gains.

     Our income from insurance premiums increased by 8.9% from R$8,121 million in 2006 to R$8,843 million in 2007, which was mainly due to an increase in the volume of automobile, life and health insurance products sold.

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     Our net trading gains from available-for-sale securities increased by 62.0% from R$627 million in 2006 to R$1,016 million in 2007. This increase was mainly due to the better results we obtained from treasury operations and securities trading.

Non-interest Expense

     The following tables show, on a company-wide and per segment basis, the principal components of our non-interest expense for 2006 and 2007:

    Consolidated 
   
    2006    2007    % Change 
       
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Salaries and benefits    R$(6,087)   R$(6,769)    11.2% 
Administrative expenses    (5,223)   (6,236)    19.4 
Amortization of intangible assets    (430)   (620)    44.2 
Insurance claims    (6,124)   (6,012)      (1.8)
Changes in provisions for insurance, pension plans, certificated savings plans and pension investment contracts    (4,199)   (4,981)    18.6 
Pension plan operating expenses    (560)   (478)   (14.6)
Insurance and pension plan selling expenses    (852)   (1,157)    35.8 
Depreciation and amortization    (534)   (746)    39.7 
Other non-interest expense    (4,729)   (4,740)   0.2 
       
 
Total    R$(28,738)   R$(31,739)    10.4% 
       

    Banking    Insurance, Pension Plans and 
Certificated Savings Plans
 
     
    2006    2007    % Change    2006    2007    % Change 
             
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Salaries and benefits    R$(5,533)   R$(6,094)   10.1%    R$(504)   R$(510)   1.2% 
Administrative expenses    (4,933)   (5,856)   18.7    (499)   (585)   17.2 
Amortization of intangible assets    (339)   (616)   81.7    (4)   (4)  
Insurance claims          (6,125)   (6,013)   (1.8)
Changes in provisions for insurance, pension plans, certificated savings plans and pension investment contracts          (4,199)   (4,981)   18.6 
Pension plan operating expenses          (560)   (478)   (14.6)
Insurance and pension plan selling expenses          (860)   (1,157)   34.5 
Depreciation and amortization    (483)   (694)   43.7    (48)   (49)   2.1 
Other non–interest expense    (4,001)   (5,010)   25.2    (608)   (172)   (71.7)
             
 
Total    R$(15,289)   R$(18,270)   19.5%    R$(13,407)   R$(13,949)   4.0% 
             

Banking

     Our non-interest expense increased by 19.5% from R$15,289 million in 2006 to R$18,270 million in 2007. This increase was mainly due to an increase in salaries and benefits and administrative expenses.

     Expenses from salaries and benefits increased by 10.1% from R$5,533 million in 2006 to R$6,094 million in 2007, which in turn was mainly due to the effects of negotiations with labor unions and resulted in increases in employees’ benefits and expenses associated with our employee profit sharing program.

     Administrative expenses increased by 18.7% from R$4,933 million in 2006 to R$5,856 million in 2007, which was mainly due to higher costs for services from third parties, as well as to an increase in the volume of our banking business and an increase in investments to improve our technology systems (IT).

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Insurance, Pension Plans and Certificated Savings Plans

     Our non-interest expense increased by 4.0% from R$13,407 million in 2006 to R$13,949 million in 2007. This increase was mainly due to an increase in insurance and pension plans selling expenses and changes in provisions for insurance, pension plans, certificated savings plans and pension investment contracts. Insurance and pension plans selling expenses increased by 34.5% from R$860 million in 2006 to R$1,157 million in 2007, which was mainly due to an increase in sale of insurance products under automobile, life and health insurance policies. Expenses from changes in provisions for insurance, pension plans, certificated savings plans and pension investment contracts increased by 18.6% from R$4,199 million in 2006 to R$4,981 million in 2007, which was mainly due to increases in the volume of these products.

Taxes on income

     Taxes on income in Brazil consist of federal income taxes and the social contribution tax on adjusted income. See “—Taxes.” The combined rate of these two taxes was 34.0% in December, 2006 and December 2007.

     Income tax expense increased by 47.5% from R$2,273 million in 2006 to R$3,352 million in 2007.

     As a percentage of our income before income taxes, adjusted for nontaxable income of unconsolidated companies, income tax expenses increased to 30.8% in 2007 from 26.7% in 2006.

Net Income

     As a result of the foregoing, our net income increased by 22.4% from R$6,462 million for 2006 to R$7,908 million for 2007.

Asset and Liability Management

     Our general policy on asset and liability management is to manage interest rate, liquidity, foreign exchange and maturity risks in order to maximize our net income from financial operations and our return on assets and equity, in light of our internal risk management policies; and maintain adequate levels of liquidity and capital.

     As part of our asset and liability management we seek to avoid material mismatches between assets and liabilities by matching, to the extent possible, the maturity, currency and interest rate structure of the loans we extend to the terms of the transactions under which we fund such loans. Subject to our policy constraints, from time to time we take mismatched positions as to interest rates, maturities and, in more limited circumstances, foreign currencies, when we believe such positions are justified in view of market conditions and prospects.

     We monitor our asset and liability position in accordance with Central Bank requirements and guidelines. The treasury committee of our senior management meets on a weekly basis to:

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     In making such decisions, our senior management evaluates not only our exposure limits for each market segment and product, but also market volatility levels and the extent to which we are exposed to market risk through interest, maturity, liquidity and currency mismatches. It also considers other potential risks as well as the liquidity of the market, our institutional needs and perceived opportunities for gain. The committee holds special meetings as needed in response to unexpected macroeconomic changes.

     In addition, we have two credit committees which help carry out our asset and liability management:

     In addition, our senior managers receive daily reports on our unmatched and open positions, while the treasury committee assesses our risk position weekly.

Liquidity and Funding

     Central Bank requirements for compulsory deposits determine our minimum liquidity levels. We review our asset and liability management policies from time to time to ensure that we have sufficient liquidity available to honor withdrawals of deposits, repay other liabilities at maturity, extend loans or other forms of credit to our customers and meet our own working capital needs.

     Our treasury department acts as a support center for our different business segments by managing our funding and liquidity positions and executing our investment objectives in accordance with our asset and liability management policies. It is also responsible for setting the rates for our different products, including exchange and interbank transactions. The treasury department covers any funding shortfall through borrowing in the interbank market. It seeks to maximize efficient use of our deposit base by investing any surpluses in liquid instruments in the interbank market.

     We have used our excess liquidity to invest in Government bonds and expect to continue doing so, subject to regulatory requirements and investment considerations.

     Our principal sources of financing are:

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     The following table shows the average balance and average real interest rates of our sources of funding (interest-bearing as well as non-interest bearing) in the periods indicated:

    2006    2007    2008 
       
    Average    % of    Average    Average    % of    Average    Average    % of    Average 
                   
    balance    total    rate    balance    total    rate    balance    total    rate 
                   
                (R$ in millions, except %)            
Deposits from banks    R$143    0.1%    13.3%    R$223    0.1%    14.8%    R$404    0.1%    19.8% 
Savings deposits    25,590    12.4    7.5    28,958    11.1    6.9    34,538    10.1    7.1 
Time deposits    34,461    16.7    12.5    34,388    13.1    10.2    62,233    18.2    11.4 
Interest- bearing liabilities:                                     
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase    27,821    13.5    13.5    51,384    19.6    10.8    74,139    21.7    12.4 
Short-term borrowings    5,741    2.8    0.9    6,892    2.6    (10.5)   10,252    3.0    47.8 
Long-term borrowings    27,289    13.2    10.3    32,305    12.4    7.3    40,445    11.8    11.7 
 
Total interest- bearing liabilities    121,045    58.7    10.6%    154,150    58.9     8.3%    222,011    64.9    12.8% 
 
Non-interest- bearing liabilities:                                     
 Demand deposits    17,432    8.4        22,311    8.5        26,305    7.7     
 Other non- interest- bearing liabilities (1)   67,989    32.9        85,091    32.6        93,862    27.4     
                                     
Total non- interest- bearing liabilities    85,421    41.3        107,402    41.1        120,167    35.1     
                                     
Total liabilities    R$206,466    100.0%        R$261,552    100.0%        R$342,178    100.0%     

________________________
(1) 
Other non-interest-bearing liabilities, whose primary components are technical reserves for insurance losses, provision for pension plans, provision for certificated savings plans, provision for pension plan investment agreements and provision for contingent liabilities, are not a source of funding.

     Deposits are our most important source of funding, accounting for 37,6% of average total liabilities in 2006, compared to 32.8% in 2007 and 36.1% in 2008. Our deposits balance over these years progressed in the following manner:

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     Short and long-term borrowings, one our most important sources of funding, accounted for 16.0% of total average liabilities in 2006, compared to 15.0% in 2007 and 14.8 in 2008. In 2006, 2007 and 2008 our average balance of short and long-term borrowings increased in 2005, 2006 and 2007, it decreased as a percentage of total liabilities, mainly due to the increase in other funding sources.

The following table shows our sources of funding and liquidity at December 31, 2008:

    December 31, 2008 
   
    (R$ in millions)   % of total 
     
Deposits from banks    R$698    0.2% 
Savings deposits    37,768    9.5 
Time deposits    97,423    24.5 
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase    74,730    18.7 
Short-term borrowings    13,849    3.5 
Long-term debt    47,255    11.9 
     
 
Total interest-bearing liabilities    271,723    68.3 
     
 
Demand deposits    28,612    7.2 
Other non-interest-bearing liabilities    97,693    24.5 
     
 
Total non-interest-bearing liabilities    126,305    31.7 
     
 
      Total liabilities    R$398,028    100.0% 
     

Deposits

     Deposits accounted for approximately 41.3% of total liabilities at December 31, 2008. Our deposits consist primarily of real-denominated, interest-bearing time and savings deposits and real-denominated, non-interest-bearing demand deposits. The increase in the average balances of our time, savings and demand deposits from December 31, 2007 through December 31, 2008 was due to the increase in our client base. At December 31, 2007, we had approximately 18.8 million checking accounts and 34.6 million savings accounts, compared to approximately 20.1 million checking accounts and 35.8 million savings accounts at December 31, 2008. For additional information regarding our deposits, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—Selected Statistical Information—Maturity of Deposits.”

Federal Funds Purchased and Securities Sold under Agreements to Repurchase

     Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase consist mainly of funds we obtained from financial institutions in the market by selling securities with agreements to repurchase.

     On December 31, 2008, we had federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase in the amount of R$74.7 million, an increase of R$5.7 million as compared to December 31, 2007. This increase was mainly due to an increase in our money market transactions in order to increase our liquidity.

     On December 31, 2007 we had federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase in the amount of R$69.0 million, a R$26.1 million increase as compared to December 31, 2006. This increase was mainly due to an increase in our operations in the money market in order to increase our liquidity.

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Short-term Borrowings

     Our short-term borrowings in foreign currencies consist primarily of lines obtained from banking correspondents for import and export financings, as well as issuances of short-term debt securities. We have consistently had access to short-term borrowings on market terms.

     We do not have any unused credit lines, credit facilities or portions thereof due to the fact that we do not maintain any pre-approved credit lines with other financial institutions.

     Our credit facilities could be impacted by various factors, including downgrades in our rating, fluctuations in Brazilian exchange rates and base interest rates, increased rates of inflation, currency devaluations, and adverse developments in the Brazilian and world economies. For a further discussion of risks that could have an adverse effect on our credit facilities, see “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Brazil” and “—Risks Relating to the company and the Brazilian Banking Industry.”

     On December 31, 2008, we had short-term borrowings (with maturities up to 360 days) totaling R$13,849 million, an increase of R$5,860 million as compared to December 31, 2007. Our short-term borrowings increased as demand for financing import and export, which we finance through short-term borrowings, increased 80.4% from R$6,073 million on December 31, 2007 to R$10,958 million on December 31, 2008. The balance of our U.S. dollar-denominated and indexed commercial papers increased 50.9%, from R$1,915 million on December 31, 2007 to R$2,890 million on December 31, 2008.

     On December 31, 2007, we had short-term loans (up to 360 days) amounting to R$7,989 million, an increase of R$2,280 million in relation to December 31, 2006. Our short-term loans increased as a demand for imports and exports financing, which we financed by means of short-term loans, increased by 36.8% from R$4,440 million on December 31, 2006 to R$6,073 million on December 31, 2007. The balance of our commercial papers denominated in and indexed to U.S. dollar increased by 56.3%, from R$1,225 million on December 31, 2006 to R$1,915 million on December 31, 2007, as a result of the stability of Brazilian economy, combined with the appreciation of real against U.S. dollar in 2007.

     Basically all of our foreign trade finance credit lines from banking correspondents are U.S. dollar-denominated. We have historically funded a substantial portion of our foreign-currency trade operations from foreign-currency credit lines with these banking.

     For additional information on our short-term borrowings, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—Selected Statistical Information—Short-term Borrowings” and “Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk - Sensitivity Analysis.”

Long-term Debt

     We classify as “long-term” all borrowings not classified as short-term. Long-term debt consist primarily of funds borrowed for local on-lendings, in which we borrow from Brazilian governmental agencies and entities to make loans to Brazilian entities for investments in facilities and equipment, as well as our subordinated notes, Euronotes and foreign currency loans.

     On December 31, 2008, the amount of our long-term debt increased from R$38,915 million to R$47,255 million as of December 31, 2007. The increase in our long-term debt was basically due to: (i) the increase of R$3,399 million in our subordinated debt. (ii) the increase of R$5,008 million in our funding for transfer of internal funds; and (iii) to the increase of R$2,808 million in securities issued by means of securitization of money orders and receivables from credit card bills, as a result of new issued in 2008.

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     On December 31, 2007, the amount of our long-term debt increased from R$30,122 million to R$38,915 million as of December 31, 2006. The increase in our long-term debt was mainly due to:

     Medium and long-term securities issuance is also included in our long-term debt, including through our medium-term note program. This program permits us to issue up to US$2.5 billion (or its equivalent in other currencies) of medium-term notes through our branches in Grand Cayman and New York and through our headquarters in Brazil. The program provides that the notes are unsecured, unsubordinated obligations and rank on the same level as all our present and future unsecured and unsubordinated external debt. We may offer the notes issued under the program for sale to qualified institutional buyers in the United States under the Rule 144A of the Securities Act or to non-U.S. persons outside the United States in accordance with Regulation S of the Securities Act.

     We had US$100 million outstanding notes on December 31, 2008 and US$450 million outstanding notes on December 31, 2007 issued under our medium-term securities program. On December 31, 2008 outstanding securities were issued during 2005 and earn interest at a fixed rate. Even though the program allows us the issuance of up to US$2.5 billion in medium-term securities, our ability to issue the remaining balance under the program depends on whether there is a demand for these resources.

     In August 2003, we issued two series of notes due in 2010, in an aggregate amount of US$400.0 million, and in July 2004 we issued a new series of notes due in 2012, in an aggregate amount of US$100.0 million. The notes are secured by future flows of payment orders we receive from abroad. In August 2005, we redeemed in advance one of the series issued in 2003 in the amount of US$200.0 million. In 2007, we issued four new series due in 2014, two of which were issued in June 2007 in an aggregate amount of US$500 million and the remainder was issued in December 2007 in an aggregate amount of US$400 million. In March 2008, we issued a new series in the amount of US$ 500 million with maturity for 2014, subject to annual revision of grace period. In December 2008, we issued a new series in the amount of US$500 million with maturity for February 2015. Out of the outstanding series as of December 31, 2008, only the 2003 and 2004 series bear fixed interest rates.

     In December 2001, April 2002, October 2003, and April 2004, we issued, through our branch in Grand Cayman, subordinated debt securities with a 10-year maturity, in the amounts of US$150 million, JP¥17.5 billion, US$500 million, and EUR225 million, respectively. In June 2005, we issued US$300.0 million in non-cumulative junior subordinated perpetual bonds, on which we pay interest at a fixed rate on a quarterly basis.

     We use the proceeds of our long-term debt issuances for general on-lending purposes, principally to our Brazilian clients. The difference between the interest we pay on our borrowings and the interest we charge our clients, known as the “spread,” is related to the term of the loans, our assessment of the client risk, and the general condition of the Brazilian economy. With the exception of our local on-lendings, there are no regulatory restrictions on the use of our borrowings.

     For additional information on our long-term debt, see “Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk—Sensitivity Analysis” and note 14 to our consolidated financial statements in Item 18.

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Compulsory Deposits with the Central Bank

     The Central Bank requires us, as a financial institution, either to deposit a determined amount of funds with the Central Bank or to purchase and hold Brazilian federal treasury securities. We cannot use these compulsory deposits for any other purpose. The Central Bank determines the interest to be paid on these deposits, if any. For more information on compulsory deposit requirements, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—History and Development of the Company—Banking Activity—Deposit-taking Activities.”

     On December 31, 2008, the balance of our compulsory deposits decreased by 17.1%, from R$31,813 million on December 31, 2007 to R$26,384 million on December 31, 2008, due to the decrease in the compulsory deposits rate.

     On December 31, 2007, the balance of our compulsory deposits increased by 35.6% as compared to 2006, from R$23,461 million on December 31, 2006 to R$31,813 million on December 31, 2007, due to an increase in the volume of deposits.

Sources of Additional Liquidity

     We do not maintain unused pre-approved credit lines, but we believe that our strong presence in the Brazilian market and our reputation in international credit markets would enable us to obtain funds on market terms if necessary. Although our medium-term notes program is not a guaranteed pre-approved credit line and our ability to issue notes under the program at any given time depends on whether there is demand for such notes, as a general matter the program can facilitate our access to international credit markets, depending on the market scenario, in which we can borrow funds at a lower interest rate and for longer tenors than in the Brazilian market. Furthermore, we may access the international capital markets to raise longer-term resources, under our existing program of notes guaranteed by future cash flows from payment orders that we receive from abroad. However, the overall liquidity of the global financial markets could adversely affect us. In the second half of 2008, with the beginning of the world financial crisis, certain credit markets experienced difficult conditions and a certain degree of volatility, resulting in less liquidity and greater volatility.

     Finally, in some limited circumstances we may obtain emergency funds from the Central Bank through a transaction referred to as “redesconto.” A redesconto is a loan from the Central Bank to a financial institution, which loan is guaranteed by federal government securities owned by the financial institution. The amount of federal government securities held by the financial institution as trading securities limits the amount of the redesconto transaction. We have never obtained funds from the Central Bank through redesconto transactions for liquidity purposes. On December 31, 2008, we had available R$20,450 million in federal government securities as trading securities that could be used for this purpose.

Cash Flow

     During 2006, 2007 and 2008, the primary influence on our cash flow was the changes in the Brazilian economic environment. The following table shows the principal variations in cash outflows during the periods indicated:

    2006    2007    2008 
       
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities    R$(14,440)   R$23,134    R$(25,733)
Net cash used in investing activities    (22,362)   (44,384)   (37,854)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities    29,203    49,972    81,053 
       
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents    R$(7,599)   R$28,722    R$17,466 
       

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2006

     During 2006, we experienced a net reduction of R$7,599 million in cash and cash equivalents, basically due to the R$22,362 million used in our investment activities, and by the R$14,440 million used in from our operating activities, which was partially offset by R$29,203 million derived from our financing activities.

     The use of cash in our investment activities in 2006 resulted primarily from the use of R$8,796 million for the acquisition of available-for-sale securities, and to the use of R$17,561 million in loan operations, which was offset by the R$7,019 million generated in the sale of available-for-sale securities.

     The cash generated by our financing activities in 2006 resulted primarily from a net increase of R$19,557 million in our transactions involving federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase, as well as the net increase of R$6,639 million in deposit-taking activities, mainly demand deposits, and the R$6,587 million increase in our long-term debt, net of the respective payments, partially offset by the impact of interest on shareholders’ capital and dividends of R$3,334 million, and by a R$1,431 million decrease in our short-term borrowings, resulting from the liquidation of commercial paper operations.

2007

     During 2007, we had a net increase of R$28,722 million in cash and cash equivalents, as a result of R$23,134 million from our operating activities and R$49,972 million from our financing activities, which was partially offset by the utilization of R$44,384 million in our investment activities.

     The utilization of cash in our investment activities in 2007 mainly resulted from the utilization of R$6,658 million for the acquisition of available-for-sale securities, R$35,363 million in credit operations and R$4,875 million compulsory deposits at the Central Bank and was offset by R$3,094 million generated by the sale of available-for-sale securities.

     The cash generated by our financing activities in 2007 basically resulted from a net increase of R$26,140 million in our transactions involving funding in the open-market, as well as the net increase of R$14,588 million in funding of deposits, mainly demand deposits and increase in our long-term loans of R$7,650 million, net of respective payments.

2008

     During 2008, we had a net increase of R$17,466 million in cash and cash equivalents, as a result of R$81,053 million from our financing activities, partially offset by R$(25,733) million in our operating activities, and by the utilization of R$(37,854) million in our investment activities.

     The utilization of cash in our investment activities in 2008 mainly resulted from the utilization of R$4,878 million for the acquisition of available-for-sale securities, R$46,315 million in credit operations, which was offset by R$10.338 million in compulsory deposits at the Central Bank and by R$4,715 million generated by the sale of available-for-sale securities.

     The cash generated by our financing activities in 2008 basically resulted from a net increase of R$64,678 million in our funding of deposits, mainly time deposits and increase of our short- and long-term loans of R$12,670 million, net of respective payments and R$5,715 million referring to the increase in funding in the open market.

Capital Compliance

     The Basel I Accord requires banks to have a ratio of capital to risk-weighted assets of a minimum of 8.0% . At least half of total capital must consist of Tier I capital. Tier I, or core capital, includes equity capital less certain intangibles. Tier II capital includes asset revaluation reserves, general loan loss reserves and subordinated debt, subject to some limitations. This ratio should be calculated based on BR GAAP financial information.

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     Brazilian banking regulations differ from Basel Accord requirements in several ways. Brazilian banking regulations:

     Prior to July 31, 2000, capital adequacy requirements could be calculated on either a consolidated or unconsolidated basis. Since July 31, 2000, we have measured our capital compliance on a consolidated basis, in accordance with Central Bank rules. As of July 1, 2008, we started operating according to the New Capital Accord (Basel II), standardized approach. See “Item 4. Information on the Company - Regulation and Supervision - Principal Limitations and Restrictions on Activities of Financial Institutions” for a more detailed discussion of Brazilian capital adequacy requirements.

     The following table shows our capital positions as a percentage of total risk weighted assets, as well as our minimum capital requirements under Brazilian law, for the dates indicated. The table and the following information are based on generally accepted accounting principles in Brazil:

    At December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008(1)
       
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Capital - Tier I    11.6%    10.3%    12.9% 
Capital - Tier II    4.9    3.7    3.2 
       
Total Capital    16.5%    14.0%    16.1% 
       
 
Available regulatory capital    R$35,046    R$41,448    R$47,263 
Minimum regulatory capital required    23,399    32,641    32,318 
       
 
Excess over minimum regulatory capital required    R$11,647    R$8,807    R$14,945 
       
(1) As of July 1, 2008, calculations are based on the New Capital Accord (Basel II). 

     The increase in our available authorized capital from R$41,448 million at December 31, 2007 to R$47,263 million at December 31, 2008 was mainly due to (i) R$1,620 million related to the additional allowance for loan losses, which is now considered a Level I capital adjustment, pursuant to Central Bank’s Resolution 2,682; (ii) R$4,928 million related to profit capitalization after payment of interest on shareholders’ equity; and (iii) capital increase by subscription of shares of R$1,200 million. These factors were partially offset by the R$2,131 negative adjustment related to unrealized losses in available-for-sale investments.

     The increase in our available authorized capital from R$35,046 million at December 31, 2006 to R$41,448 million at December 31, 2007 was mainly due to (i) our issuance of R$1,338 million in subordinated notes, and (ii) profit capitalization of R$5,187 million after payment of interest on shareholders’ capital. These factors were partially offset by (i) a negative adjustment of R$175 million related to unrealized losses in investments classified as available for sale; and (ii) effect of a R$81 million decrease for deposit in our treasury account.

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     The excess of our capitalization over the minimum regulatory capital required was R$14,945 million at December 31, 2008, as compared to R$8,807 million in 2007.

     As of December 31 of each of 2006, 2007 and 2008, we were in compliance with all minimum capital requirements imposed by the Central Bank. For a description of our capital requirements and Central Bank capital adequacy regulations see “Item 4. Information on the Company—Regulation and Supervision—Principal Limitations and Restrictions on Activities of Financial Institutions.”

     In the previous years we maintained a significant position in short-term, highly liquid instruments, which in general have a zero or low risk weighting, thereby eliminating or significantly reducing the need to maintain capital against these assets. This position reflects the restrictive credit environment that prevailed in Brazil during 2002, 2003 and 2008. If we were to increase significantly our loan portfolio, we would be required to maintain capital against these assets which, depending on the capital position at that time, could reduce our capital as a percentage of risk-weighted assets.

Interest Rate Sensitivity

     Management of interest rate sensitivity is a key component of our asset and liability policy. Interest rate sensitivity is the relationship between market interest rates and net interest revenue due to the maturity or repricing characteristics of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities. For any given period, the pricing structure is considered balanced when an equal amount of these assets or liabilities matures or reprices in that period. Any mismatch of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities is known as a gap position. A negative gap denotes liability sensitivity and normally means that a decline in interest rates would have a negative effect on net interest income. Conversely, a positive gap denotes asset sensitivity and normally means that a decline in interest rates would have a positive effect on net interest income. These relationships can change significantly from day to day as a result of both market forces and management decisions.

     Our interest rate sensitivity strategy takes into account:

     We monitor our maturity mismatches and positions and manage them within established limits. Our Treasury committee reviews our positions at least weekly and changes our positions as market outlooks change.

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     The following table shows the maturities of our interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities at December 31, 2008 and may not reflect interest rate gap positions at other times. In addition, variations in interest rate sensitivity may exist within the repricing periods presented due to differing repricing dates. Variations may also arise among the different currencies in which interest rate positions are held.

    December 31, 2008 
   
    Up to 30 days    31 – 90 days    91 – 180 days    181 – 365 days    1 – 3 years    Over 3 years    Total 
               
Interest–earning assets:    (R$ in millions, except %)
   Deposits from banks    R$ 6,284    R$ 1,496    R$ 3,078    R$ 2,336    R$ 717    R$ 524    R$ 14,435 
   Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell    41,152    602    112    1,269    2,117    1,698    46,950 
   Central bank compulsory deposits    10,323      321    559    8,654    936    20,793 
   Trading securities    59,843    2,143    1,524    9,491    7,078    11,770    91,849 
   Available–for–sale securities    75    146    830    627    2,539    22,553    26,770 
   Held-to-maturity securities    63          13    4,021    4,097 
   Loans    27,255    24,362    20,909    27,833    47,143    20,155    167,657 
   Other assets              467    467 
               
 
Total interest–earning assets    144,995    28,749    26,774    42,115    68,261    62,124    373,018 
               
 
Interest–bearing liabilities:                             
   Deposits from banks    501    10    70    94    23      698 
   Savings deposits    37,768              37,768 
   Time deposits    6,215    4,808    3,923    9,743    60,317    12,417    97,423 
   Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase    44,010    1,460    580    2,414    21,904    4,362    74,730 
   Short–term borrowings    1,417    3,539    3,098    4,714    1,068    13    13,849 
   Long–term debt    2,987    906    2,051    3,419    19,549    18,343    47,255 
               
 
                             
Total interest–bearing liabilities    92,898    10,723    9,722    20,384    102,861    35,135    271,723 
               
 
Asset/liability gap    52,097    18,026    17,052    21,731    (34,600)   26,989    101,295 
Cumulative gap    R$ 52,097    R$ 70,123    R$ 87,175    R$108,906    R$ 74,306    R$101,295   
Ratio of cumulative gap to cumulative total interest–earning assets    13.97%    18.80%    23.37%    29.20%    19.92%    27.16%     

Exchange Rate Sensitivity

     Most of our operations are denominated in reais. Our policy is to avoid material exchange rate mismatches. However, at any given time, we generally have outstanding long-term debt denominated in and indexed to foreign currencies, principally the U.S. dollar. We had R$9,207 million of long-term debt outstanding at December 31, 2008. At that date, our net foreign currency liability exposure was R$9,096 million, or 24.6% of shareholders’ liability. Consolidated net foreign currency exposure is the difference between total foreign currency-indexed or -denominated assets and total foreign currency-indexed or -denominated liabilities, including off-balance-sheet derivatives financial instruments.

     Our foreign currency position arises primarily through our purchases and sales of foreign exchange (primarily U.S. dollars) from Brazilian exporters and importers, from other financial institutions on the interbank market, and on the spot and forward currency markets. The Central Bank regulates our maximum outstanding sold and purchased foreign currency positions.

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     At December 31, 2008, the composition of our assets, liabilities and shareholders’ equity by currency and term was as shown below. Our foreign currency assets are largely denominated in reais but are indexed to foreign currencies, principally the U.S. dollar. Most of our foreign currency liabilities are denominated in foreign currencies, principally the U.S. dollar.

    December 31, 2008 
   
    R$    Foreign 
currency 
  Total    Foreign 
currency as
 
% of total
 
         
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Assets:                 
Cash and due from banks    R$5,943    R$3,473    R$9,416    36.9% 
Interest earning deposits in other banks    8,603    5,832    14,435    40.4 
Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell    46,239    711    46,950    1.5 
Brazilian Central bank compulsory deposits    26,339    45    26,384    0.2 
Trading securities:    89,734    2,115    91,849     
 Less than one year    29,506    1,999    31,505    6.3 
 From one to three years    7,051    27    7,078    0.4 
 More than three years    11,681    89    11,770    0.8 
 Indefinite (1)   41,496      41,496   
Available–for–sale securities:    26,086    3,869    29,955     
 Less than one year    1,557    121    1,678    7.2 
 From one to three years    2,462    77    2,539    3.0 
 More than three years    19,209    3,344    22,553    14.8 
 Indefinite    2,858    327    3,185    10.3 
Held to maturity securities:    2,961    1,136    4,097     
 Less than one year      63    63   
 From one to three years    13      13   
 More than three years    2,948    1,073    4,021    26.7 
Loans:    148,977    25,858    174,835     
 Less than one year    79,177    17,452    96,629    18.1 
 From one to three years    43,221    3,922    47,143    8.3 
 More than three years    15,671    4,484    20,155    22.2 
 Indefinite (2)   10,908      10,908   
Equity investees and other investments    801    80    881    9.1 
Premises and equipment, net    4,254      4,263    0.2 
Goodwill    1,286      1,286   
Intangible assets, net    3,138      3,138   
Other assets:    32,081    6,038    38,119     
 Less than one year    14,459    4,277    18,736    22.8 
 From one to three years    11,758    269    12,027    2.2 
 More than three years    5,864    1,492    7,356    20.3 
Allowance for loan losses    (10,286)   (32)   (10,318)   0.3 
         
 
Total    R$386,156    R$49,134    R$435,290    11.3% 
         

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    December 31, 2008 
   
    R$    Foreign 
currency 
  Total    Foreign 
currency as 
% of total 
         
    (R$ in millions, except %)
Percentage of total assets    88.7%    11.3%    100.0%     
 
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity:                 
Deposits:    R$157,273    R$7,228    R$164,501     
 Less than one year    84,724    7,020    91,744    7.7% 
 From one to three years    60,219    121    60,340    0.2 
 More than three years    12,330    87    12,417    0.7 
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase    74,676    54    74,730    0.1 
Short–term borrowings:      13,849    13,849     
 Less than one year      12,768    12,768    100.0 
 From one to three years      1,068    1,068    100.0 
 More than three years      13    13    100.0 
Long–term debt:    38,048    9,207    47,255     
 Less than one year    7,751    913    8,664    10.5 
 From one to three years    16,874    2,675    19,549    13.7 
 More than three years    13,423    4,920    18,343    26.8 
 Undetermined      699    699    100.0 
Other liabilities:    85,614    12,079    97,693     
 Less than one year    58,647    11,973    70,620    17.0 
 From one to three years    25,691    23    25,714    0.1 
 More than three years    1,276    83    1,359    6.1 
Minority interest in consolidated subsidiaries    332      332   
Shareholders’ equity    36,930      36,930   
         
 
Total    R$392,873    R$42,417    R$435,290    9.7% 
         
 
Percentage of total liabilities and shareholders’ equity    90.3%    9.7%    100.0%     

_________________
(1) 
Represents investments in mutual funds, which are redeemable at any time, in accordance with our liquidity needs.
(2) 
Represents non-performing loans.

     Derivatives are presented in the table below on the same basis as presented in the consolidated financial statements in Item 18.

     Our cash and cash equivalents in foreign currency are represented principally by U.S. dollars. Amounts denominated in other currencies, which include euros and yen, are indexed to the U.S. dollar through currency swaps, effectively limiting our foreign currency exposure to U.S. dollars only.

     We enter into short-term derivatives contracts with selected counterparties to manage our overall exposure as well as to assist customers in managing their exposures. These transactions involve a variety of derivatives, including interest rate swaps, currency swaps, futures and options. For more information regarding these derivative contracts, see note 23(b) to our consolidated financial statements in Item 18.

     At December 31, 2008, the composition of our derivatives by currency was as it follows:

    December 31, 2008 
   
    Reference amounts 
   
    R$    Foreign currency    Total 
       
    (R$ in millions)
Derivatives:             
   Interest rate futures contracts:             
       Purchases    R$39,349    –    R$39,349 
       Sales    16,814    –    16,814 
 
   Foreign currency futures contracts:             
       Purchases    –    R$4,308    4,308 
       Sales    –    17,905    17,905 

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    December 31, 2008 
   
    Reference amounts 
   
    R$    Foreign currency    Total 
       
    (R$ in millions)
Future contracts – other             
   Purchases    28    –    28 
   Sales    10    –    10 
 
Interest rate option contracts:             
   Purchases    2,949    –    2,949 
   Sales    4,216    –    4,216 
 
Foreign currency option contracts:             
   Purchases    –    2,341    2,341 
   Sales    –    2,497    2,497 
 
Option contracts – other:             
   Purchases    949    –    949 
   Sales    2,320    –    2,320 
 
Foreign currency forward contracts:             
   Purchases    –    9,811    9,811 
   Sales    –    2,437    2,437 
 
Swap contracts:             
   Asset position:             
   Interest rate swaps    8,546    –    8,546 
   Currency swaps    –    12,934    12,934 
   Liability position:             
   Interest rate swaps    R$ 8,023    –    8,023 
   Currency swaps    –    R$13,273    R$13,273 

Capital Expenditures

     In the past three years, we have made, and expect to continue to make, significant capital expenditures related to improvements and innovations in technology and the Internet designed to maintain and expand our technology infrastructure in order to increase our productivity, accessibility, cost efficiency and our reputation as a leader in technological innovation in the financial services sector. We have made significant capital expenditures for systems development, data processing equipment and other technology designed to further these goals. These expenditures are for systems and technology for use both in our own operations and by clients.

     The following table shows our capital expenditures accounted for as fixed assets in the periods:

    2006             2007    2008 
       
        (R$ in millions)    
Infrastructure:             
   Land and buildings    R$62    R$79    R$47 
   Leasehold furniture and equipment    152    169    256 
   Betterments in owned and third-party real estate    100    137    279 
   Others    18    67   
       
 
Total    332    452    587 
       
 
Information Technology:             
   Systems development    274    238    353 
   Data processing equipment    603    664    892 
       
 
Total    877    902    1,245 
       
 
Total    R$1,209    R$1,354    R$1,832 
       

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     During 2008, we made R$2,482 million in capital expenditures, R$1,832 million of which were related to the acquisition of assets and R$650 million to telecommunications services and data processing expenses. During the first three months of 2009, we made investments valued at R$764 million.

     We believe that capital expenditures in 2009 through 2011 will not be substantially greater than historical expenditure levels and anticipate that in accordance with our practice during recent years, our capital expenditures in 2009 through 2011 will be funded from our own resources. No assurance can be given, however, that the capital expenditures will be made and, if made, that such expenditures will be made in the amounts currently expected.

Transactions Recorded in Off-balance Sheet Accounts

     All of our off -balance sheet financial guarantees are described under “- Off-balance Sheet Financial Guarantees.” None of our off-balance sheet arrangements are of the type with respect to which we are required to provide disclosure pursuant to Item 5.E. of Form 20-F.

Research and Development, Patents and Licenses

     Other than our program of technological innovation we do not have any significant policies or projects relating to research and development, and we own no patents or licenses.

Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees

Management of Banco Bradesco

     We are managed by our Conselho de Administração, which we call the “Board of Directors,” together with our Board of Executive Officers. The Board of Directors establishes our corporate strategy and policies and supervises and monitors the Board of Executive Officers. In turn, the Board of Executive Officers implements the strategy and policies set by the Board of Directors and is responsible for our day-to-day management.

     Our Board of Executive Officers is currently made up of (i) the “Diretoria Executiva,” which is the board of senior executive officers, and (ii) our departmental and regional directors. The Diretoria Executiva is made up of the president, seven vice presidents and ten managing executive directors.

     Our nine-member Board of Directors meets on a regular basis every 90 days and meets on an extraordinary basis whenever necessary. It is responsible for:

     Our Board of Directors acts as our audit committee, as specified in Section 3(a)(58) of the Exchange Act of 1934, for purposes of approving, on a case-by-case basis, any engagement of our independent auditors for audit and non-audit services provided to our subsidiaries or to us.

     Our Diretoria Executiva meets weekly and is responsible for:

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     Several members of our Board of Directors and the Diretoria Executiva also perform senior management functions at our subsidiaries, including BRAM, Banco Finasa BMC, Bradesco Administradora de Consórcios, Bradesco BBI, Bradesco Leasing, BEM DTVM and Bradesco Cartões. Each of our subsidiaries has an independent management structure.

     On June 9, 2003, our Controlling Shareholders entered into a shareholders’ agreement, which we call the “Shareholders’ Agreement,” with BBVA. On March 4, 2008, BBVA, exercised its put option of the totality of its interest. Our Controlling Shareholders and BBVA concluded such purchase and sale at April 11, 2008, upon delivery on April 16, 2008 of R$2.3 billion to BBVA. As of April 11, 2008, the Shareholders’ Agreement ceased to be in effect.

     Pursuant to Brazilian law, all members of our Board of Directors and Board of Executive Officers have been approved by the Central Bank.

     The following are biographies of the current members of our Board of Directors and Board of Executive Officers.

Members of the Board of Directors:

     Lázaro de Mello Brandão, Chairman: Born on June 15, 1926; economist and business administrator. In September 1942, Mr. Brandão was hired as a bookkeeper by Casa Bancária Almeida & Cia., the financial institution that became Banco Brasileiro de Descontos S.A. on March 10, 1943, and later became Banco Bradesco S.A. He has held a variety of positions during his banking career. In January 1963, he was elected as an Officer, and in September 1977, he was elected Vice-President. In January 1981 he assumed the position of CEO, succeeding Mr. Amador Aguiar, the founder of Bradesco. Since February 1990, he has served as the Chairman of our Board of Directors. In March 1999, he decided to step down as CEO, but has remained the Chairman of our Board of Directors. He also holds a variety of positions within Organização Bradesco, such as Chairman of the Board of Trustees and President of Fundação Bradesco; and Chairman of the Board of Directors and President of the Institute of Diseases of the Digestive System and Nutrition (FIMADEN). In addition, he is the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Bradespar S.A. He has also served as President of the Banking Associations of the States of São Paulo, Paraná, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Acre, Amazona, Pará, Amapá, Rondônia and Roraima, as Vice-President of the National Federation of Banks, known as “FENABAN”, as a member of the Board of the Federation of Brazilian Banking Associations, known as “Febraban” and as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Fundo Garantidor de Créditos—FGC and CIBRASEC Companhia Brasileira de Securitização and a member of the consulting committee of VBC Participações S.A. and a member of the Managing Board of BES, located in Lisbon, Portugal.

     Antônio Bornia, Vice-Chairman: Born on November 22, 1935. High School graduate. Mr. Bornia started his career with Banco Bradesco S.A. in May 1952. Since then, he has held a variety of positions within Bradesco. In September 1975, he became an Associate Officer; in April 1979, he was appointed to an Executive Officer position; in June 1981 he became Vice-President and since March 1999 he has been the Vice-Chairman of our Board of Directors. He is Chairman of the Board of Directors of Bradesco Securities, Inc. and Bradesco Securities UK Limited and Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of Banco Bradesco Luxembourg S.A. and Bradesco Leasing S.A.—Arrendamento Mercantil; Vice President of NCF, Nova Cidade de Deus Participações S.A. and Top Clube Bradesco, Segurança, Educação e Assistência Social; Manager of Bradport—S.G.P.S. Sociedade Unipessoal, Lda.; Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees; Vice President of Fundação Bradesco; Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors; and Vice President of Institute of Diseases of the Digestive System and Nutrition (FIMADEN). He is also the Chairman of the Board of the ABEL—Associação Brasileira das Empresas de Leasing, and he previously held the position of Chief Executive Officer; Vice-president of the Board of Directors of Bradespar S.A., and member of the Brazilian Sector of the Brazil-United States Business Council. He has also served as an alternate member of the Board of Resources of the National Financial System, an agency related to the Treasury Ministry, as representative of the ABEL—Associação Brasileira das Empresas de Leasing from July 1989 until July 1991 and from February 2000 to February 2002. He was also the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the FGC from January 2002 to January 2005, and Vice Chairman of the Executive Board of the Latin American Leasing Federation—Felalease from August 2003 to October 2005; and CEO of the National Union of Leasing Companies, from September 1988 to April 2006; Vice Chief Executive Officer and Vice-President of the Board of Representatives of the National Confederation of the Financial System—Consif, from January 2004 to May 2007; and in CNF—National Confederation of the Financial Institutions, he held the positions of Chairman, Vice Chairman and member of Board of Representatives and Vice-President Director, from September 1988 to March 2007.

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     Mário da Silveira Teixeira Júnior, Director: Born on March 4, 1946. Mr. Teixeira received a degree in civil engineering and business administration from Mackenzie Presbyterian University. In July 1971, Mr. Teixeira joined Bradesco S.A Corretora de Títulos e Valores Mobiliários, having served as an officer from March 1983 until January 1984, when he was transferred to Banco Bradesco de Investimento S.A. and Banco Bradesco S.A. There, he was appointed Departmental Director in January 1984; Managing Officer in March 1992; Vice-President in March 1998, and from March 1999 to July 2001 he served as a member of our Board of Directors, when he resigned to manage Bradespar S.A., a company incorporated by our partial spin-off. In March 2002, he returned to his position as a member of our Board of Directors, where he remains until today. Currently he is also a Member of the Board of Directors of Bradesco Leasing S.A. – Arrendamento Mercantil, member of the Board of Trustees and Managing Officer of Fundação Bradesco, member of the Board of Directors and Managing Director of Institute of Diseases of the Digestive System and Nutrition (FIMADEN). In addition to these activities, Mr. Teixeira is a member of the Board of Directors of Bradespar S.A., Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of Companhia Vale do Rio Doce and Valepar S.A., and a voting member of the Managing Board of Banco Espírito Santo de Investimentos S.A., located in Lisbon, Portugal. He has also served as Vice-President of ANBIDAssociação Nacional dos Bancos de Investimento, member of the Management Board of ABRASCABrazilian Association of Publicly-held Companies, and Vice-chairman of the Board of Directors of BES Investimento do Brasil S.A.Banco de Investimento, member of the Board of Directors of Companhia Paulista de Força e LuzCPFL, Companhia Piratininga de Força e Luz, Companhia Siderúrgica NacionalCSN, CPFL Energia S.A., CPFL Geração de Energia S.A., Latasa S.A., São Paulo Alpargatas S.A., Tigre S.A. Tubos e Conexões, VBC Energia S.A. and VBC Participações S.A.

     Márcio Artur Laurelli Cypriano, Director: Born on November 20, 1943. Mr. Cypriano received a law degree from Mackenzie Presbyterian University. In July 1967, he started his career with Banco da Bahia S.A., a financial institution we merged with in December 1973. Thereafter, Mr. Cypriano became a manager of Bradesco. In January 1984, Mr. Cypriano was appointed as a Departmental Officer, in January 1986 he became a Deputy Managing Officer, in February 1988, Mr. Cypriano was designated Managing Officer and in February 1995, he became Vice-President. In March 1999, he was appointed our CEO, and since March 2002, he has been a director. In March 2009, he left the Board’s Presidency since he reached the age limit allowed in the Bylaws, remaining as a member of the Board of Directors. He is also a member of the Board of Trustees and Managing Director of Fundação Bradesco; and member of the Board of Directors and Managing Director of Institute of Diseases of the Digestive System and Nutrition (FIMADEN). In addition to these activities, he is a member of the Board of Directors of Bradespar S.A., member of the Managing Board of FEBRABAN, by holding the positions of CEO and President; effective member of the Board of Directors of FGC; Vice-Chairman of the Board of Representatives of CNF; Vice President Director of Consif; and Co-founder of Se ToqueSP Instituto de Desenvolvimento Social da Cidade de São Paulo (Social Development Institute of the city of São Paulo) He was the CEO of Banco BCN from April 1998 until March 1999, also holding the position of CEO of the other companies of Bradesco Organization from 1999 to 2009. He was CEO of Fenaban and of the Union of the Banks in the States of São Paulo, Paraná, Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul; member of the Conselho de Desenvolvimento Econômico e SocialCDES and member of Conselho Superior de Comércio Exterior (Coscex), and of the Federation of the Industries of the State of São Paulo/Instituto Roberto Simonsen; and sitting member of the agribusiness board- CONSAGRO.

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     João Aguiar Alvarez, Director: Born on August 11, 1960. Mr. Alvarez received a degree in agronomy from the Manuel Carlos Gonçalves College of Agronomy and Animal Husbandry in Espírito Santo do Pinhal, SP. In April 1986 he was elected to the Board of Directors of Cidade de DeusCompanhia Comercial de Participações, one of the holding companies of Banco Bradesco S.A., and since April 1988, he has served as a Director. Since February 1990, Mr. Alvarez has been a member of our Board of Directors and a director of Bradespar S.A. since March 2000. He is a member of the Board of Trustees and Associate Director of Fundação Bradesco and Member of the Board of Directors and Associate Director of Institute of Diseases of the Digestive System and Nutrition (FIMADEN).

     Denise Aguiar Alvarez, Director: Born on January 24, 1958. Ms. Valente received a degree in education from São Paulo Pontific Catholic University and received a Masters in Education from New York University. In April 1986, she was appointed to the Board of Directors of Cidade de Deus - Companhia Comercial de Participações, one of our controlling shareholders, and since July 1988 she has also been serving as an Officer. Since February 1990, Ms. Valente has served as a member of our Board of Directors, and since March 2000, she has also served as a Director of Bradespar S.A. She is also a member of the Board of Trustees and Associate Director of Fundação Bradesco and member of the Board of Directors and Associate Directors of Institute of Diseases of the Digestive System and Nutrition (FIMADEN). In addition to these activities, she was previously member and currently is Chairwoman of the Governance Board of GIFEGroup of Institutions, Foundations and Companies,; a member of the Board of Directors of Associação dos Amigos da Pinacoteca do Estado and of the Deliberative Board of Museu de Arte Moderna de São PauloMAM, member of the Board of Trustees of Fundação Dorina Nowill para Cegos and Fundação Roberto Marinho, member of the, member of the Consulting Board of Canal Futura; Member of the General Board of Comunitas Parcerias para o Desenvolvimento Solidário; and effective member (Socia Efetiva) of Associação de Apoio ao Programa Alfabetização SolidáriaAAPAS. She was member of the Deliberative Board of Fundo Social de Solidariedade do Estado de São PauloFussesp.

     Luiz Carlos Trabuco Cappi, Director: Born on October 6, 1951. Mr. Cappi received a degree from the São Paulo University of Philosophy, Science and Languages. He began his career at Banco Bradesco S.A. in April 1969. Since then, Mr. Cappi has held a variety of positions within Bradesco, such as Departmental Officer (as of January 1984), Managing Officer (as of March 1998) and Vice-President since March 1999. On March 10, 2009 he was appointed Chairman of the Bank’s Board and member of the Board of Directors. He is also the CEO of other companies within Bradesco Organization. He also holds a variety of positions within Organização Bradesco, such as a member of the Board of Trustees and Managing Directors of Fundação Bradesco and member of the Board of Directors and Managing Director of Institute of Diseases of the Digestive System and Nutrition (FIMADEN). In addition to these activities, a member of the Egregious Board of ANSP—National Academy of Insurance and Pension Plans and member of the Consulting Board of APTS—São Paulo Association of Insurance Technicians and Effective Member of Association Internationale pour I’Etude de I”Economie de I’Assurance – Association de Genève, Genève, Switzerland. From March 2003 to March 2009 he was the CEO of Bradesco Seguros S.A. and he also served as a member of the Board of Directors of Bradesco Seguros from March 1999 to March 2005. He was a Sector Director of ADVB—Association of Sales Directors of Brazil, President of Anapp—National Association of Private Pension, he is President of Federação Nacional de Saúde Suplementar—FENASAÚDE, and President of the Marketing and Collection Commission of the Brazilian Association of Real Estate Loan and Savings Entities– ABECIP. Member of the Managing Board of Abrasca—Brazilian Association of Publicly-held Companies and of the Rio de Janeiro Commercial Association and member of the Executive Board of Instituto de Estudos de Saúde Suplementar—IESS and a member of the Board of Directors of Companhia Siderúrgica Belgo-Mineira and Marketing Sector Director and a member of the National Board of Banking Ethics (Coneb) of the Brazilian Federation of Banks (FEBRABAN), Member of the International Issues Board of the Insurance Superintendence– SUSEP, and member of the Superior Board and Vice-President of Confederação Nacional das Empresas de Seguros Gerais, Previdência Privada e Vida, Saúde Complementar e Capitalização—CNSeg and its Effective Representative at National Confederation of the Financial System– CONSIF.

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     Carlos Alberto Rodrigues Guilherme, Director: Born on December 21, 1943. Mr. Guilherme received a law degree from Pinhalense Education Foundation. He began his career with Bradesco in December 1957. Mr. Guilherme has held a variety of positions within the banking sector, such as Departmental Officer in (March 1986), Deputy Managing Officer in (March 1998), Managing Officer in (March 1999) and Member of the Board of Directors since March 2009. He is a member of the Board of Trustees of Fundação Bradesco and member of the Board of Directors of the Institute of Diseases of the Digestive System and Nutrition (FIMADEN). Prior to that, he served as Officer of Banco de Crédito Real de Minas Gerais S.A. from April 1998 until April 2003 and of Credireal Leasing S.A.—Arrendamento Mercantil from April 1998 to September 1999.

     Ricardo Espírito Santo Silva Salgado, Director: Born on June, 25 1944. Mr. Salgado received a degree in economics from the Instituto Superior de Ciências Econômicas e Financeiras at Universidade Técnica de Lisboa - Portugal. In June 2003 he was appointed to our Board of Directors. He is also a member of the Superior Council of the Espírito Santo group, Vice-President of the Board of Directors and President of the Executive Commission of Banco Espírito Santo, S.A. - Lisbon, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Espírito Santo Financial Group SA (ESFG) - Luxembourg, a member of BESPAR – Sociedade Gestora de Participações Sociais SA and PARTRAN – Sociedade Gestora de Participações Sociais; Member of the Board of Directors of Espírito Santo Bank Ltd, Espírito Santo International SA – Luxembourg, Espírito Santo Resources – Nassau, Banque Privée Espírito Santo SA – Lausanne and Banque Espírito Santo Et de La Vénétie – Paris; and member of the Supervisory Board of Euronext NV - the Netherlands, and a member of the Executive Committee of Institut Internationale d’Études Bancaires (IIEB) - Brussels. He has served as a member of the Board of Directors of Banco Boavista Interatlântico S.A. (Brazil) from September 1997 to October 2000.

Members of the “Diretoria Executiva”:

     Luiz Carlos Trabuco Cappi, CEO: Mr. Trabuco also holds the position of CEO. His experience is described in “¯Members of the Board of Directors.”

     Laércio Albino Cezar, Vice President: Mr. Cezar was born on October 13, 1946. Mr. Cezar is accountant. He started his career in April 1960. Since then, Mr. Cezar has held a variety of positions within Bradesco, such as being appointed as our Departmental Officer in March 1982, Managing Executive Officer in March 1992 and Vice-President since March 1999. He also holds a variety of positions within Organização Bradesco, such as a member of the Board of Trustees and Managing Officer of Fundação Bradesco and member of the Board of Directors and Managing Director of Institute of Diseases of the Digestive System and Nutrition (FIMADEN). He is also a member of the Board of Trustees of the National Quality Foundation—FNQ. Prior to that, from November 1983 to March 1992, he was a member of the Security Against Frauds Sub-committee of FEBRABAN. Mr. Cezar was also the Brazilian representative within the Internal Auditors Committee of FELABANFederação Latino-Americana de Bancos – from January 1991 to April 1997; Vice-President of the Institute of Rational Organization of Labor (IDORT) of São Paulo from July 1997 to July 2000, and First Executive Vice-President from July 2000 to July 2003.

     Arnaldo Alves Vieira, Vice President: Born on April 9, 1948. Mr. Vieira received a law degree from Guarulhos University and a degree in business administration from Mackenzie Presbyterian University. He started his career in October 1961 in Bradesco. Since then, Mr. Vieira has held a variety of positions within Bradesco, such as being appointed as our Officer in April 1985, Departmental Officer in March 1992, Managing Officer in February 1995 and Vice President since March 1999. He also holds a variety of positions within Organização Bradesco, such as a member of the Board of Trustees and Managing Officer of Fundação Bradesco and member of the Board of Directors and Managing Directors of Institute of Diseases of the Digestive System and Nutrition (FIMADEN). In addition to these activities, since November 1995 he has been the Vice-Chairman of Companhia Brasileira de Meios de Pagamento (VISANET), Fidelity Processadora e Serviços S.A since April 2006, and Member of the Board of Ethics and Self Regulation of the Brazilian Association of Credit Card Companies and ServicesABECS – since January, 2006. Mr. Vieira has also served as Executive Officer of FEBRABAN and FENABAN from March to September of 2002; Officer of the InterAmerica Overseas Limited from May 2000 to September 2007 and Director of the Regional Board of Directors of Visa International from May 1999 to September 2007.

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     Sérgio Socha, Vice President: Born on March 15, 1946. Accounting technician. Mr. Socha began his career at Banco Indústria e Comércio de Santa Catarina S.A. in September 1961. With the acquisition of Banco Indústria e Comércio de Santa Catarina S.A., he joined our staff in May 1968. Since then he has held a variety of positions within the banking sector, such as being appointed in Bradesco as an Officer in March 1986, Departmental Officer from July 1995 to January 1998 and Vice President since July 1999. He also holds a variety of positions within Organização Bradesco, such as member of the Board of Trustees and Managing Officer of Fundação Bradesco and member of the Board of Directors and Managing Director of Institute of Diseases of the Digestive System and Nutrition (FIMADEN). Mr. Socha was an officer of BCN S.A. from December 1997 to November 1998. At that time, he became Vice President of BCN, a position he held until July 1999, and Vice-President of ABECIP, the Brazilian Association of Home Loan and Savings Entities, from November 1999 to March 2002. He was a Member of the Deliberation Council from March 2002 to November 2003.

     Julio de Siqueira Carvalho de Araujo, Vice President: Born on December 10, 1954. High School graduate. Mr. Carvalho de Araújo began his career in March 1978 at Banco BCN S.A., an institution that was acquired by us in 1997. He has held a variety of positions within the banking sector, such as being appointed in Bradesco Officer in October 1989 and Vice President of BCN from May 1995 to August 2000. Since August 2000 he has been our Vice President. He also holds a variety of positions within Organização Bradesco, such as member of the Board of Trustees and Managing Officer of Fundação Bradesco and member of the Board of Directors and Managing Director of Institute of Diseases of the Digestive System and Nutrition (FIMADEN). In addition to these activities, he serves as a member of the board of directors of the BM&FBovespa – and President of the Board of Directors of Interbank Chamber of Payments—CIP. He was effective member of the Board of Directors of Companhia Brasileira de Liquidação e Custódia (CBLC) and member of the Deliberative Board of the Brazilian Association of Real Estate Credit and Savings Entities—ABECIP.

     José Luiz Acar Pedro, Vice President: Born on November 23, 1952. Mr. Pedro received a business administration degree from the Santana College of Economic and Accounting Sciences at São Judas Tadeu University in São Paulo/SP. He began his career in January 1971 at Banco BCN S.A., a financial institution that was acquired by us in December 1997. Mr. Pedro has held a variety of positions within the banking sector, such as being appointed in Bradesco as an Officer in June 1986, an Executive Officer in May 1996 and CEO of BCN from March 1999 to March 2004. In February 2003, he was elected as Executive Vice President of Banco Bradesco S.A., a position that he currently holds. He also holds a variety of positions within Organização Bradesco, such as member of the Board of Trustees and Managing Officer of Fundação Bradesco and member of the Board of Directors and Managing Director of Institute of Diseases of the Digestive System and Nutrition (FIMADEN). In addition to these activities, he has been an effective member of the Board of Directors of CPM Holdings Ltd. and CPM Braxis S.A., Vice-President of FEBRABAN and IBCB – Brazilian Institute of Banking Science, Vice-President and Deputy Commissioner of Consif in FENABAN; Effective Director of the National Confederation of the Financial System – CONSIF; Treasury Officer of the banks unions in the States of São Paulo, Paraná, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Acre, Amazonas, Pará, Amapá, Rondônia and Roraima and Member of the Ethics Committee of the Brazilian Institute of Investor Relations (IBRI), having occupied the posts of Chairman and Member of the Board of Directors. He was Chairman of the Board of Directors of BCN Corretora de Títulos e Valores Mobiliários S.A.; CEO of Banco Boavista Interatlântico S.A., Banco Mercantil de São Paulo S.A and Potenza S.A. Processamento de Dados; CEO and Member of the Advisory Board of BCN Asset Management S.A.; Director of Financiadora BCN S.A.—Crédito, Financiamento e Investimentos; Member of the Curator Council of the National Quality Foundation—FNQ; alternate member of the Social and Economic Development Council—CDES; and member of the Managing Board of Abrasca.

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     Norberto Pinto Barbedo, Vice-President: Born on February 26, 1952. Mr. Barbedo received an accounting degree from Tibiriçá College of Accounting Sciences. He began his career in January 1968 at Banco BCN S.A., a financial institution that was acquired by us in December 1997. Mr. Barbedo has held a variety of positions within the banking sector, such as being appointed in Bradesco as an Officer in October 1989 and Executive Officer and Vice-President of Banco BCN S.A. from December 1997 to March 2004. In February 2003, Mr. Barbedo was appointed our Executive Officer and Vice-President. He also holds a variety of positions within Organização Bradesco, such as member of the Board of Trustees, Managing Officer of Fundação Bradesco, member of the Board of Directors and Managing Director of the Institute of Diseases of the Digestive System and Nutrition (FIMADEN). Besides these activities, he is Vice-President of the Brazilian Association of Real Estate Credit and Savings Entities—ABECIP and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Companhia Brasileira de Securitização—Cibrasec, and Member of the Consulting Board of FIABCI/BRASIL - Capítulo Nacional Brasileiro da Federação Internacional das Profissões Imobiliárias. Mr. Barbedo was Vice-President of Banco Boavista Interatlantico S.A., Banco Mercantil de São Paulo S.A., Banco Zogbi S.A. and Potenza S.A. Processamento de Dados. He also served as director of BCN Corretora de Títulos e Valores Mobiliários S.A. and Officer of Financiadora BCN S.A.—Crédito, Financiamento e Investimentos.

     Domingos Figueiredo de Abreu, Vice-President: Born on January 8, 1959. He received a degree in economics from College of Economic Sciences of Mogi das Cruzes and a degree in accounting from College of Economic Sciences and Administration of OSASCO—FEAO, with a postgraduate degree in Financial Administration (CEAG) from Fundação Getúlio Vargas and an MBA in Finance from the IBMEC (Capital Markets Brazilian Institute). Mr. Abreu began at Bradesco in December 1981. He has held a variety of positions within the banking sector, such as being appointed in Bradesco as a Departmental Officer in June 2001, a Managing Officer since March 2002 and Vice-President in June 2009. Mr. Abreu is also a member of the Board of Trustees of Fundação Bradesco and member of the Board of Directors of the Institute of Diseases of the Digestive System and Nutrition (FIMADEN). Since March 2006, he holds the position of deputy member of CPM Holdings Limited’s Board of Directors. He was officer of Banco BCN S.A. from December 1997 to June 2001 and deputy member of CPM Braxis S.A.’s Board of Directors from October 2001 to March 2007, where he was also a member of the Board of Technical Administration from June 1998 to May 1999.

     Armando Trivelato Filho, Managing Officer: Born on August 10, 1946. Mr. Filho received a degree in civil engineering from Minas Gerais University. He began at Bradesco in May 1977. Mr. Trivelato has held a variety of positions within Bradesco, such as being appointed in Bradesco as Departmental Officer in July 1988, Deputy Managing Officer in March 1998 and a Managing Officer since March 1999. He is also a member of the Board of Trustees of Fundação Bradesco and member of the Board of Directors of the Institute of Diseases of the Digestive System and Nutrition (FIMADEN). Prior to that he was an Engineer of Bradesco S.A. Crédito Imobiliário, Officer of the Digilab—Laboratório Digital Ltda., director of Matel Tecnologia de Teleinformática S.A.—MATEC, alternate director of the Companhia Siderúrgica Nacional—CSN, Officer and director of Matel S.A. – Participação and Administração, Vice-Chairman of Teletrim Telecomunicações S.A. and director of VICOM S.A.

     José Alcides Munhoz, Managing Officer: Born on July 23, 1948. High School graduate. Mr. Munhoz began at Bradesco in October 1970. He has held a variety of positions within the banking sector, such as being appointed in Bradesco as Officer in March 1989, Departmental Officer in January 1995, Deputy Managing Officer in March 1998, and a Managing Officer since March 1999. He is a member of the Board of Trustees of Fundação Bradesco and member of the Board of Directors of the Institute of Diseases of the Digestive System and Nutrition (FIMADEN). He was also elected Director of Bradesco Consórcios Ltda, current Bradesco Administradora de Consórcios Ltda.

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     José Guilherme Lembi de Faria, Managing Officer: Born on June 25, 1945. Mr. Lembi de Faria received a degree in economics from the Fluminense Federal University. He began his career in January 1967 at Banco Mineiro do Oeste S.A., which was acquired by us in 1973. In September 1981 he was designated General Manager of our New York Branch. After returning to Brazil, he became an Officer in March 1993, appointed as Departmental Officer in February 1995, Deputy Managing Officer in March 1998, and a Managing Officer since March 1999. He is also a member of the Board of Trustees of Fundação Bradesco and member of the Board of Directors of the Institute of Diseases of the Digestive System and Nutrition (FIMADEN), CEO of Banco Bradesco Argentina S.A., Vice-President of the Bradesco Services Co., Ltd., Officer of Bradesco Trade Services Limited and of Cidade Capital Markets Ltd., Manager of Bradport—S.G.P.S. Sociedade Unipessoal, Lda. And Managing Officer of BRAM. Besides these activities, he is Member of the Advisory Board of the Brazilian Center for International Relations—CEBRI. He was a Member of the Board of Directors and Treasury Director of Boavista Banking Limited.

     Luiz Pasteur Vasconcellos Machado, Managing Officer: Born on June 14, 1948. Mr. Machado received a law degree from the United Metropolitan Colleges—FMU. He began at Bradesco in June 1962. He has held a variety of positions within the banking sector, such as being appointed in Bradesco as an Officer in March 1986, Departmental Officer in March 1992, Deputy Managing Officer in March 1998, and a Managing Officer since March 1999. He is also a member of the Board of Trustees of Fundação Bradesco and member of the Board of Directors of the Institute of Diseases of the Digestive System and Nutrition (FIMADEN). He has also served as a member of the Board of Directors of Companhia Brasileira de Meios de Pagamento from April 1998 to April 2006, Chairman of the Smart Club do Brasil Ltda. From June 2004 to November 2004, where he has also held the position of member of its Board of Directors.

     Milton Matsumoto, Managing Officer: Born on April 24, 1945. Mr. Matsumoto received a degree in business administration from UNIFIEO—University Center FIEO of Osasco. He began at Bradesco in September 1957. He has held a variety of positions within the banking sector, such as being appointed in Bradesco as Departmental Officer in March 1985, Assistant Officer in March 1998, and a Managing Officer since March 1999. Mr. Matsumoto is also a member of the Board of Trustees of Fundação Bradesco and member of the Board of Directors of the Institute of Diseases of the Digestive System and Nutrition (FIMADEN). He also serves as an alternate member of the Board of Directors of CPM Holdings Ltd., Secretary Officer of the union of the credit, financing and investing companies of the State of São Paulo of FENACREFI—Interstate Federation of Loan, Financing and Investment Institutions. He was an Officer of Bradesco S.A. Corretora de Títulos e Valores Mobiliários from January 1984 to March 1985; the first Secretary Officer of the Bank Union in the States of São Paulo, Paraná, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Acre, Amazonas, Pará, Amapá, Rondônia and Roraima, from June 1989 to May 1998; and deputy member of the Board of Directors of CPM Braxis S.A. from February 2003 to March 2007.

     Odair Afonso Rebelato, Managing Officer: Born on July 28, 1945. Accounting technician. Mr. Rebelato began at Bradesco in August 1960. He has held a variety of positions within the banking sector, such as being appointed in Bradesco as an Officer in March 1989, Departmental Officer in March 1998, and a Managing Officer since August 2001. Mr. Rebelato is also a member of the Board of Trustees of Fundação Bradesco and member of the Board of Directors of the Institute of Diseases of the Digestive System and Nutrition (FIMADEN).

     Aurélio Conrado Boni, Managing Officer: Born on July 19, 1951. Business Administration technician. He began at Bradesco in February 1971. He has held a variety of positions within the banking sector, such as being appointed in Bradesco as a Departmental Officer in December 1997 and a Managing Officer since December 2001. Mr. Boni is also a member of the Board of Trustees of Fundação Bradesco and member of the Board of Directors of the Institute of Diseases of the Digestive System and Nutrition (FIMADEN).

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     Paulo Eduardo D’Avila Isola, Managing Officer: Born on December 11, 1955. Mr. Isola received a business administration degree from Braz Cubas University, Mogi das Cruzes, SP. He began his career as a Director of Continental Promotora, now called Finasa Promotora, in July 1997. He later became Managing Director in April 2004. In March 2002, he became Managing Officer. He was designated Managing Officer of Banco BCN S.A. remaining until March 2004. In February 2003, he became our current Managing Officer. Mr. Isola also holds the position of member of the Board of Trustees of Fundação Bradesco and member of the Board of Directors of the Institute of Diseases of the Digestive System and Nutrition (FIMADEN). He is also Vice-President of ACREFI—Associação Nacional das Instituições de Crédito, Financiamento e Investimento; Alternate Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors of Fidelity Processadora e Serviços S.A.; member of the Board of Directors of Companhia Brasileira de Meios de Pagamento; sitting member of the Board of Directors of Leader Card; and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Crediare S.A. – Crédito, Financiamento e Investimento. He was the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Companhia Leader de Investimentos and Josema Administração e Participações S.A.. Mr. Isola has also served as Technician Officer of the ABEL—Associação Brasileira das Empresas de Leasing, member of the Board of Directors of Clicar Central On-Line de Financiamentos Sociedade Simples Ltda; and alternate director of CIBRASEC—Companhia Brasileira de Securitização.

     Ademir Cossiello, Managing Officer: Born on July 3, 1955. Mr. Cossiello received a degree in economics from Faculdades Padre Anchieta. He began at Bradesco in October 1973. He has held a variety of positions within the banking sector, such as being appointed in Bradesco as an Officer in January 1995 and Departmental Officer from March 1998 until September 1999. In June 2003, he became Executive Managing Director, a position he currently holds. Mr. Cossiello also holds positions as a member of the Board of Trustees of Fundação Bradesco and member of the Board of Directors of the Institute of Diseases of the Digestive System and Nutrition (FIMADEN). Since August 2003, he is also a member of the Deliberative Council of the Commerce Association of São Paulo, where he previously held the position of member of the deliberative board from February to September 1999. He was an Officer and Managing Officer at Banco Baneb S.A. from June 1999 to October 2001. From October 2001 to March 2004, he served as Managing Officer of Banco BCN S.A., and from January 1995 to January 1997, he was a director of ASBAN—Associação de Bancos no Estado de Goiás.

     Sérgio Alexandre Figueiredo Clemente, Managing Director: Born on June 7, 1959. Graduated in Mechanical Engineering from PUC—Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Minas Gerais (Catholic University of Minas Gerais), with an executive MBA in Finance from IBMEC (Capital Markets Brazilian Institute) and specialization in Finance through the Executive Management Development Program (PDG), administered by the Business Development Corporation. He is currently attending the Advanced Management Program (PGA), administered by Fundação Dom Cabral and INSEAD. Mr. Clemente joined Banco BCN S.A. in May 1996 as Assistant Director. In December 1997, he was elected Director. With the acquisition of BCN, he joined the Bradesco staff, having been elected Departmental Director in March 2000, as the person responsible for the Corporate Department, and, in December 2006, became Executive Managing Director, position he currently holds. He is a member of the Governing Board of Fundação Bradesco and of the Board of Directors of the Institute of Diseases of the Digestive System and Nutrition (Fimaden).

Director and Officer Compensation for Bradesco and its Subsidiaries

     At Shareholders’ meetings, the shareholders of Bradesco and its subsidiaries establish the maximum global compensation of the members of the Board of Directors and Board of Executive Officers of Bradesco and its subsidiaries for the ensuing year. In 2008, our shareholders set the global compensation for the Board of Directors and Board of Executive Officers of Bradesco and its subsidiaries at R$292.5 million.

     In 2008, the directors and executive officers of Bradesco and its subsidiaries received aggregate compensation of R$250.4 million for their services, whether as members of the Board of Directors or Board of Executive Officers of Bradesco or its subsidiaries, as applicable, or as providers of services to our subsidiaries. No part of the aggregate compensation was paid as part of a profit sharing plan or in the form of stock options.

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     The directors and executive officers of Bradesco and its subsidiaries have the right to participate in the same complementary retirement pension plans available to all our employees. In 2008, we contributed R$126.1 million to pension plans on behalf of the directors and executive officers of Bradesco and its subsidiaries.

Board Practices

     Our shareholders elect the members of our Board of Directors at the annual general shareholders meeting for one-year terms and the board members can be reelected for consecutive terms. The Board of Directors appoints the members of our Board of Executive Officers for one-year terms, which can also be extended for consecutive terms.

     To become a member of our Board of Executive Officers, a person must have worked for us or our affiliates for a minimum of ten consecutive years and be less than sixty-five years old at the time of appointment. In the Board of Executive Officers, besides the Executive Officers, there are 41 departmental directors and 9 directors. The departmental and directors direct the business of each of our various divisions and branches and report to the Board of Executive Officers. To become a departmental or director, a person must be an employee or executive officer at Bradesco or one of our affiliates and be less than sixty-two years old, in the case of departmental directors, or sixty years old, in the case of regional directors, at the time of appointment. Our Board of Directors may, for up to 25.0% of the members of our Board of Executive Officers, waive the fulfillment of certain requirements for their appointment, as follows:

  I -   
Executive Officers – the Board of Directors can waive the requirement pursuant to which the person should be an employee of Bradesco or any of its affiliates for at least 10 years. Notwithstanding the above, such requirement cannot be waived for persons to be appointed as Presidents or Vice-Presidents. 
 
  II -   
Departmental and Regional Directors – the Board of Directors can waive the requirement pursuant to which the person should be an employee or member of the management of Bradesco or any of its affiliates. 

     The members of our Board of Directors are required to work exclusively for us, unless granted an exception by the Board of Directors. Notwithstanding the above, the members of our Board of Directors are not required to be or to have been our employees, and service as a member of our Board of Directors does not constitute employment with us.

Fiscal Council

     Under Brazilian law, corporations may have a “conselho fiscal,” or fiscal council, an independent corporate body with general monitoring and supervision powers in accordance with the Brazilian Corporate Law. Our bylaws provide for a fiscal council and specify that if our shareholders convene a fiscal council, it shall have from three to five effective members and alternates.

     Our fiscal council has three sitting members (Domingos Aparecido Maia—Cordenador; Nelson Lopes de Oliveira; and Ricardo Abecassis Espírito Santo Silva) and three alternates (João Batistela Biazon, Jorge Tadeu Pinto de Figueiredo and Renaud Roberto Teixeira) all of whom were elected in March 2009 and whose terms will expire in March 2010. In accordance with Brazilian Corporate Law, our fiscal council has the right and obligation to, among other things:

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Board Committees

     Our shareholders approved at the extraordinary shareholders’ meeting held on December 17, 2003 the creation of the audit committee, the internal control and compliance committee and the compensation committee. At the extraordinary shareholders’ meeting held on March 27, 2006, our shareholders approved the transformation of the ethics committee into a statutory committee. At the extraordinary shareholders’ meetings held on March 24, 2008, our shareholders approved the creation of the risks integrated management and capital allocation committee.

     Audit CommitteePursuant to our Bylaws and to Central Bank regulations since April 2004, we have appointed members of the Audit Committee, which may be comprised of three to five members, each of whom serves a term that can be renewed, in successive elections, up to a limit of five (5) years, as of the date the member first takes the office. Our Audit Committee members are appointed by, and may be dismissed by, the Board of Directors. The current members of the committee are Mário da Silveira Teixeira Júnior, who acts as coordinator, Hélio Machado dos Reis and Yves Louis Jacques Lejeune, as members with no specific designation. Mr. Paulo Roberto Simões da Cunha is the member with technical skills for the position. Of the members, only Mr. Mario Teixeira is a member of our Board of Directors.

     In addition, under Brazilian law, the function of hiring independent auditors is reserved for the board of directors of a company. As a result, our board of directors functions as our audit committee, as specified in Section 3(a)(58) of the Exchange Act, for purposes of approving, on a case-by-case basis, any engagement of our independent auditors for audit and non-audit services provided to our subsidiaries or to us. Except in these respects, our audit committee is comparable to and performs the functions of audit committees of U.S. companies. Since our Audit Committee cannot be compared to the audit committees of American companies in terms of commitment from our independent auditors in audit and non-audit services, we have relied on the exemption set forth in Exchange Act Rule 10A-3(c)(3) in this regard. For more information see “Item 16.D – Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees.”

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     The responsibilities of the audit committee include:

     Internal Control and Compliance CommitteeThe Internal Control and Compliance Committee has four (4) to eight (8) members, each with a term of one year. Members are appointed and replaced by the Board of Directors. The committee’s primary responsibility is to assist the Board of Directors with the performance of its duties related to the adoption of strategies, policies and measures governing internal controls, mitigation of risks, and compliance with applicable rules.

     Compensation CommitteeThe Compensation Committee has three to five members, all of whom are members of the Board of Directors, and each of whom serves a term of one year. Members are appointed by and replaced by the Board of Directors. The committee’s primary responsibility is to provide the Board of Directors with proposed policies and guidelines related to the compensation of our managers. The compensation is to be based on performance targets established by the Board.

     Ethics Committee – The Ethics Committee is comprised of up to nine members, each of whom serves for a one-year term. Members are appointed and may be replaced by the Board of Directors. The committee’s primary responsibility is to propose actions to ensure the enforcement of our Corporate and Sector Codes of Ethics and to promote awareness of it by our employees and management.

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     Integrated Risk Management and Capital Allocation Committee – The Integrated Risk Management and Capital Allocation Committee currently has 9 members, each of whom serves a one-year term. Members are appointed and dismissed by the Board of Directors. This committee’s primary responsibility is to advise the Board of Directors in the performance of its duties related to the approval of institutional policies and operational guidelines, and to establish of risk exposure limits. Currently, this committee is composed of our management, namely: the chief executive officer, who acts as coordinator, and the Vice-Presidents and departmental directors of the risks management and compliance department.

Ombudsman

     At the extraordinary shareholder’s meeting held on August 24, 2007, our shareholders formalized the creation of the Ombudsman. Previously the Company had an informal Ombudsman. The Ombudsman works on behalf of all the institutions within the Bradesco Organization authorized to operate by the Brazilian Central Bank. There is one Ombudsman, with a one-year term. The Ombudsman is appointed and removed by the Board of Directors.

     The Ombudsman is responsible for:

     According to our Bylaws and in order to comply with the rules of the Brazilian Central Bank, Mrs. Cleuza de Lourdes Lopes Curpievsky, Regional Manager, was appointed the Ombudswoman by the Board of Directors, in the first Board of Directors’ meeting held after the Annual General Meeting on March 10, 2009.

Employees

     On December 31, 2008, we had 86,622 employees, of which 69,411 were employed by us and 17,211 were employed by our subsidiaries, as compared to 82,773 employees on December 31, 2007 and 79,306 employees on December 31, 2006.

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     The following table sets forth the number of our employees and a breakdown of employees by main category of activity and geographic location as of the dates indicated:

    December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
Total number of employees    79,306    82,773    86,622 
Number by category of activity:             
 Banking:             
 Bradesco    63,163    65,050    69,411 
 Insurance activities    4,758    4,818    5,217 
 Pension plan activity    1,491    1,584    1,657 
 Other categories    9,894    11,321    10,337 
Number by geographic location:             
 Cidade de Deus, Osasco    10,235    10,702    10,787 
 Alphaville, Barueri    1,385    1,419    1,421 
 São Paulo    15,607    17,102    17,368 
 Other locations in Brazil    51,982    53,446    56,935 
 International    97    104    111 

     During the period between 2006 and 2008, we acquired Amex Brasil, BEC, and BMC and Mediservice.

     Our part-time employees work six hours a day, while our full-time employees work eight hours a day. We had 30,128 part-time employees and 56,494 full-time employees as of December 31, 2008 compared to 29,454 part-time employees and 53,319 full-time employees as of December 31, 2007 and 29,210 part-time and 50,096 full-time as of December 31, 2006.

     We generally hire our employees at the entry level, and encourage them to remain with us throughout their careers. In filling all positions, we give preference to candidates from within Bradesco, including for middle management and senior positions. We also hire professionals from the marketplace, but to a lesser extent.

     On December 31, 2008, approximately 52% of our employees were associated with one of the labor unions that represents bank or insurance employees in Brazil. We consider our relations with our employees as well as with the labor unions to be good, in large part due to our philosophy of internal recruiting and open communication. We have not experienced any strikes during the past four years. We are party to two collective bargaining agreements: one relating to our banking employees and the other to our insurance sector employees.

     We offer our employees benefits which include a Bradesco Saúde and Bradesco Dental health plan which permit beneficiaries to choose their doctors, hospitals and dentists throughout the country, supplementary retirement and pension plans, and subsidized life and accident insurance. We also have a team of social workers who work with our employees and their dependents. These benefits apply regardless of the employee’s position. Currently, 29% of our employees participate in our Bradesco Vida e Previdência pension plan. In accordance with our collective bargaining agreement, we also offer our employees profit-sharing compensation plans.

     We also offer professional training to our employees. In 2008 we invested R$91.3 million in training for professional qualification, totaling 1,537,946 participants. In 2007, we invested R$75.3 million in training with 1,021,153 participants. Our professional training department prepares and delivers personnel/professional formation and development courses in operating, technical and behavioral areas.

Share Ownership

     On December 31, 2008, the members of our Board of Directors and Board of Executive Officers indirectly held 4.42% of our voting capital and 2.21% of our total capital stock, in the aggregate, through a company called Elo Participações e Investimentos S.A., which we call “Elo.” In addition, some of our directors and executive officers directly hold shares of our capital stock. However, on December 31, 2008, none of our directors and senior managers individually owned, directly or indirectly, more than 1.2% of any class of our shares.

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Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions.

Major Shareholders

     We are a publicly held corporation with, as of December 31, 2008, 1,534,805,958 common shares and 1,534,900,221 preferred shares, discounting treasury shares, all of which are nominative and book-entry shares with no par value. For information on shareholders’ rights and our dividend distributions, see “Item 8. Financial Information—Policy on Dividend Distributions” and “Item 10. Additional Information—Memorandum and Articles of Incorporation—Organization—Allocation of Net Income and Distribution of Dividends.”

     The following chart illustrates our capital ownership structure as of December 31, 2008:

1

     Cidade de Deus Participações, a holding company, directly owns 49.00% of our voting capital and 24.51% of our total capital stock. Cidade de Deus Participações, in turn, is owned by the Aguiar family, Fundação Bradesco, and another holding company, Nova Cidade de Deus Participações S.A., which we call “Nova Cidade de Deus.” Nova Cidade de Deus is owned by Fundação Bradesco and Elo.

     To the best of our knowledge there has been no significant change in the percentage ownership held by any major shareholders during the past five years.

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     The following table shows the direct ownership of our outstanding common and preferred shares on December 31, 2008. To the best of our knowledge, only those shareholders mentioned in the table below, except for the members of the Diretoria Executiva or the Board of Directors, directly hold five percent or more of our securities with voting rights.

Shareholder    Number of 
common shares 
  % of 
common 
shares 
  Number of 
preferred shares 
  % of 
preferred 
shares 
  Total Number of 
shares 
  % of total 
shares 
             
    (number of shares, except %)
Cidade de Deus Participações   752,126,455       49.00    374,337    0.02    752,500,792    24.51 
Fundação Bradesco (1)   232,026,271       15.12    31,415,502    2.05    263,441,773     8.58 
NCF    54,693,063    3.56    11,000,000    0.72    65,693,063     2.14 
BES    109,884,381    7.16        109,884,381     3.58 
Members of the Board                         
   Lázaro de Mello Brandão    (*)   (*)   (*)   (*)   (*)    (*)
   Antônio Bornia    (*)   (*)   (*)   (*)   (*)    (*)
   Mário da Silveira Teixeira Júnior    (*)   (*)   (*)   (*)   (*)    (*)
   Márcio Artur Laurelli Cypriano    (*)   (*)   (*)   (*)   (*)    (*)
   João Aguiar Alvarez    (*)   (*)   (*)   (*)   (*)    (*)
   Denise Aguiar A. Valente    (*)   (*)   (*)   (*)   (*)    (*)
   Luiz Carlos Trabuco Cappi    (*)   (*)   (*)   (*)   (*)    (*)
   Carlos Alberto Rodrigues Guilherme    (*)   (*)   (*)   (*)   (*)    (*)
   Ricardo Espirito Santo S. Salgado    (*)   (*)   (*)   (*)   (*)    (*)
Total Board of Directors    10,768,509    0.70    15,028,051    0.98    25,796,660     0.84 
Members of the Diretoria Executiva                         
   Laércio Albino Cezar    (*)   (*)   (*)   (*)   (*)    (*)
   Arnaldo Alves Vieira    (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)
   Sérgio Socha    (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)
   Julio de Siqueira Carvalho de Araújo    (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)
   Domingos Figueiredo de Abreu    (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)
   José Luiz Acar Pedro    (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)
   Norberto Pinto Barbedo    (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)
   Armando Trivelato Filho    (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)
   José Alcides Munhoz    (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)
   José Guilherme Lembi de Faria    (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)
   Luiz Pasteur Vasconcellos Machado    (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)
   Milton Matsumoto    (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)
   Odair Afonso Rebelato    (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)
   Aurélio Conrado Boni    (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)
   Paulo Eduardo D’Avila Isola    (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)
   Ademir Cossielo.    (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)
   Sergio Alexandre Figueiredo Clemente    (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)   (*)    (*)
Total Members of the Diretoria Executiva    472,555    0.03    1,185,011    0.08    1,657,566    0.05 
Subtotal    1,159,971,324    75.57    59,003,001    3.85    1,218,974,235    39.70 
           
Other    374,834,724    24.43    1,475,897,220    96.15    1,850,731,944    60.30 
           
Total    1,534,805,958    100.00    1,534,900,221    100.00    3,069,706,179    100.00 
           

______________________
(1) 
Also indirectly owns, through its interest in Cidade de Deus Participações and Nova Cidade de Deus, and NCF 35.57% of our common shares and 18.11% of our total shares.
(*) 
None of the members of our Board of Directors, Board of Executive Officers or other administrative, supervisory or management bodies directly or beneficially holds 1.00% or more of any of our classes of shares, and their individual share ownership has not been previously disclosed to our shareholders or otherwise made public. See “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—Share Ownership” for more information.

     The following is a brief description of our principal beneficial shareholders. None of the principal beneficial shareholders have voting rights that differ from those of the other holders of our common shares.

Cidade de Deus Participações

     Cidade de Deus Participações is a holding company that holds investments in other companies. It also administers, purchases and sells securities and other assets on its own account. Its shareholders are Nova Cidade de Deus, with 44.84% of its common and total shares, Fundação Bradesco, with 33.15% of its common and total shares, and the Aguiar family, with 22.01% of its common and total shares as of December 31, 2008. The company’s capital stock is made up of common, nominative book-entry shares, with no par value.

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Nova Cidade de Deus

     Nova Cidade de Deus is a holding company that holds investments in other companies, particularly those that directly or indirectly own our voting capital. On December 31, 2008, the company owned, through its participation in Cidade de Deus Participações, 22.60% of our common shares and 11.37% of our total shares.

     The capital stock of Nova Cidade de Deus is divided in class A and class B common shares and one class of preferred shares. Ownership of the class B common shares is limited to:

     Ownership of Nova Cidade de Deus’ Class “A” common shares is limited to the persons entitled to own Class B common shares and any civil associations and private foundations managed by them or their appointed representatives. Only the class A and class B common shareholders in Nova Cidade de Deus have voting rights.

The Aguiar Family

     As of December 31, 2008, three members of the Aguiar family and the estate of Mr. Amador Aguiar indirectly owned, by way of their participation in Cidade de Deus Participações, 11.09% of our common shares and 5.58% of our total shares. In addition, the same parties directly held a total of 1.12% of our common shares and 1.05% of our preferred shares and 1.09% of our total shares. None of the individual members of the Aguiar family directly holds more than 1.00% of our voting shares.

Fundação Bradesco

     As of December 31, 2008, Fundação Bradesco owned 50.34% of our common shares, 2.68% of our preferred shares and 26.69% of our total shares, directly and indirectly, through its participation in Cidade de Deus Participações, Nova Cidade de Deus and NCF. Under the terms of Fundação Bradesco’s bylaws, all of our directors, members of the Board of Executive Officers and departmental directors, as well as all directors and officers of Cidade de Deus Participações, serve as members of the board of trustees of Fundação Bradesco, known as the “Board of Trustees”. They receive no compensation for their service on the Board of Trustees.

     Fundação Bradesco, the center of our social activities, was founded in 1956 to invest in the development and education of children, teenagers and adults in Brazil, specially from the poorest segments of society to facilitate their “social inclusion.” Throughout its 52 years of activities, Fundação Bradesco has offered quality free-of-charge, formal education to more than 2.1 million students and has assisted more than 3 million people, with other types of in-class and distance education programs.

     Fundação Bradesco aims to assist more than 642,000 people in 2009. Of this number, approximately 112,000 are students who will be assisted in their own schools. These students are children and adults enrolled in courses ranging from basic education to high school and professional education to continuing qualification studies. Over 530,000 other people will benefit from programs offered through the virtual school, the e-learning portal and the Digital Inclusion Centers (“CIDs”). Fundação Bradesco also provides free uniforms, school supplies, meals and medical and dental care to approximately 50,000 students enrolled in basic education programs.

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     Students passage rates in Fundação Bradesco’s Schools has been an average of 96%, over the last five years, equivalent to the best international standards.

     To face the challenge of updating and qualifying employees with different educational levels, Fundação Bradesco offers more than 100 free courses, with flexible programs with the goal to train the participants to start their own business or to obtain better positions in the job market. For example, we offer courses in Graphic Technology, Agribusiness, Management, Information Technology, Fashion and Leisure and Development. These courses expand the solid bonds with the regional markets and with the communities’ interests.

     On March 9, 2008, all the units of Fundação Bradesco conducted the “National Day of Voluntary Action” for the sixth consecutive year. There were over 34,100 volunteers in more than 225 locations, including the forty Fundação Bradesco Schools and the CDIs. The volunteers provided more than 1.7 million services in the citizenship, education, leisure, sports and environment areas.

     Since 1997, Fundação Bradesco has been one of the 12 maintaining entities of Globo Organization’s Canal Futura – O Canal do Conhecimento. Canal Futura has nearly 33 million viewers. In 2008, Fundação Bradesco invested R$2,613 million and showed the institution’s commitment to an education that values educational work and incentivizes entrepreneurial communitarian experiences.

     The IT for the Visually Handicapped Program, implemented by Fundação Bradesco in 1998 has already benefited 9,000 students. “Intel Educação para o Futuro” (Intel Education for the Future) and “Intel Aprender” (Intel Learn) complete the list of educational initiatives in technology and have benefited over 5,000 educators and 6,000 students.

     Since 1998, Fundação Bradesco supports the “Alfabetização Solidária” program, with the objective to reduce illiteracy levels in the country. In 2008, Fundação Bradesco invested R$649,700.

     The “Virtual School” e-learning portal develops distance education programs and hybrid education courses in information technology and teachers qualification. The Virtual School currently offers 184 distance and hybrid education courses in the IT area. The Virtual School allows experience, knowledge and information exchange through online tools, such as chats and conferences, and a virtual campus for over 150,000 users. In 2009, 390,000 people should benefit from it. It also provides people who live nearby with the use of technology and digital inclusion in its 103 CDIs. Four CDIs are located in indigenous communities as learning centers and professional qualification, and have already served over 250,000 people, positively impacting society. Over 30 new CIDs will be implemented in the country in a partnership with British Telecom Global Service – BT, who carries out worldwide projects with Unicef to offer the Internet in need communities in developing countries.

     Fundação Bradesco held a conference entitled “Technology and Digital Services for Social Development” during The Government Leaders Forum Americas, an event promoted by MIT – Media Lab, in the United States. The goal of the conference was to identify and disseminate opportunities to apply technology in educational and social inclusion programs.

     Fundação Bradesco was the main sponsor of the Fifth GIFE Conference on Private Social Investment, called “Local Experiences, Global Transformation.” Fundação Bradesco opened the conference, that gathered approximately 600,000 national and international leaders to discuss the complexities of the new private social investment arrangements and eventual supranational actions.

     We sponsored the Congresso Internacional de Educação para Surdos (International Conference of Education for the Deaf), promoted by Fundação de Rotarianos de São Paulo, with the theme “Bilingualism: practices and perspectives.”

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     We were part of the XIII Exposição Agropecuária de Garanhuns (XIII Garanhuns Farming and Ranching Exhibit), an event that focused on producers, technicians, students and other people directly and indirectly related to the farming and ranching sector. The Garanhuns/PE School Unit participated in the exhibit to disclose its work related to this segment.

     Fundação Bradesco was the only representative from Latin America to participate in the Wharton Fellows Program hosted in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, in the United Arab Emirates. The Wharton Fellows Program was organized by the University of Pennsylvania to provide a multicultural environment for the exchange of experiences and advanced management cases, as well as for the creation of an international collaboration network formed by CXO executives. The theme of the program was “Islam and the West.” The main goal of our participation in the program was to introduce the “Knowledge City” and “Internet City” initiatives, which are currently under implementation in Dubai. We also shared the social projects developed by the Fundação Bradesco in Brazil.

     In a partnership with Microsoft, we launched the School Technology Innovation Center to seek solutions that meet the demands of digital [general call (Y)]. This project is focused on mobility and collaboration, with inter-operability projects, robotics, games, one-to-one computer training of educators, accessibility and education futurology studies. This is an opportunity to provide technology to our school network, CIDs and partner public schools. The operational excellence and innovation leadership are strategic issues to be achieved by 2012.

     We had to opportunity to visit British Telecom (BT) in London. We were able to share social responsibility and technological innovation projects. BT Innovation Center, located in Adastral Park, Ipswich, is a world-class facility in technology research for communications. It has a staff of over four thousand researchers and yearly investments of £ 1 billion in research and development. A partnership with British Telecom will provide Fundação Bradesco with access to the technological innovation network composed of 37 universities and partners within the “Open Innovation” concept, as well as the company’s participation in Bradesco Instituto de Tecnologia.

     We inaugurated the first World Center of Intel Digital Education at BIT, in Campinas. This center aims at providing innovative education solutions through information and communication technology for students and educators of Fundação’s school units and public schools throughout the country. This initiative consolidates Intel’s six years of collaboration with us. Our mission is to improve education in Brazil is in line with the worldwide technology and education strategy.

     For the third consecutive year, Fundação Bradesco’s school network participated in the Corrente do Bem Teleton (Teleton Pay it Forward Campaign). We achieved our goal of raising R$220,830 in 2008. Fundação Bradesco’s representatives, directors of the Bodoquena, MS and Paragominas, PA schools, and students from the Osasco, SP school delivered the money to AACD.

     Fundação Bradesco received several awards in 2008 for the depth and reach of its social activities. The highlights include the 2008 E-Learning Award: Atlanta Intel ISEF – International Science and Engineering Fair; 2008 Ibest Award; First Robotics Competition Overdrive Championship; IV Latin-American Science Exhibit ESI-AMLAT: Victor Civita Best Teacher Award; 4th Brazilian Olympiad of Health and Environment; Abrasca 10th Award, 2008 100+Innovative in IT Award; XXIII Young Scientist Award; 23rd MOSTRATEC – International Sciences and Technology Exhibit; 51th Scientist of Tomorrow Contest; Microsoft for Brazilian Innovative Teachers Award and 2008 Black People Trophy – “120 Years of Slavery Abolition.”

     Fundação Bradesco represents an unmistakable form of wealth distribution by the Bradesco Organization. Its main funding source is its ownership of our capital stock. Fundação Bradesco has been improving the quality of life in communities where it operates.

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     Fundação Bradesco’s 2008 budget totaled R$220,791 million. The budged was allocated to finance more than 518,000 students, over 110,000 of which are assisted within the foundation’s facilities (in basic and continuing education for adults and youth) and more than 408,000 in in-class and distance learning courses through “Virtual School” and CIDs. Over the last ten years, the accumulated investment of Fundação Bradesco has been R$3,124 billion.

Elo Participações e Investimentos

     Elo indirectly owned 5.89% of our common shares and 2.96% of our total shares on December 31, 2008 through its participation in Nova Cidade de Deus. Elo is a holding company that was organized to hold interests in our capital and in the capital of our indirect and direct shareholders. In 1999, Elo acquired from several shareholders an indirect interest of 5.51% of our voting capital. Only members of the Board of Directors or the Board of Executive Officers and qualified employees of Banco Bradesco, Bradespar, or our subsidiaries may own shares in Elo. However, only the members of the Board of Directors and executive officers may own voting shares. Most of our board members and executive officers own shares in Elo.

BES

     BES is a commercial bank whose headquarters are in Portugal. In December 2008, BES directly held 7.16% of our common shares and 3.58% of our total capital. Currently Mr. Ricardo Espírito Santo Silva Salgado represents BES on our Board of Directors.

Other

     Direct market holdings represented 25.16% of our voting capital on December 31, 2008 (including equity participations of 2.52% held by Bank of Tokyo Mitsubishi—UFJ (MUFG)) and 97.21% of our preferred shares. Direct and indirect participation by the market in our common and preferred shares represented effective interest over 61.19% of our capital stock on December 31, 2008.

     On December 31, 2008, 19.85% of our preferred shares and 10.71% of our common shares were held by 3,832 foreign investors registered with the Companhia Brasileira de Liquidação e Custódia (Brazilian Clearance and Depository Corporation), known as “CBLC.” At the same date, our ADRs represented 23.96% of our preferred shares and our GDRs represented 0.13% of our preferred shares.

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Related Party and Subsidiary Transactions

     Transactions with related parties and subsidiaries (mainly with CPM Braxis S.A. e Cia. Brasileira de Meios de Pagamento—VisaNet) are conducted on arms’ length terms, as demonstrated below:

    December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
ASSETS             
 Dividends receivable      16   
 Other assets    213    110   
 
LIABILITIES             
 Demand deposits    47    11    15 
 Time deposits    261    120    75 
 Debentures    444    582    248 
 Interest on shareholders´ equity and dividends    23    607    687 
 Subordinated notes    460    845    106 
 Other liabilities    23    541   
 
INCOME AND EXPENSES             
 Income on securities    22    24   
 Other income    30    40    12 
 Interest on long-term debt    108    228    69 
 Other expenses    332    240    105 

     Under laws nos. 4,595/64 and 7,492/86, financial institutions may not grant loans or advances to:

     Accordingly, we have not made any loans or advances to any of our subsidiaries, affiliates, executive officers, board members or their relatives of second degree. Under Brazilian regulation, financial institutions must keep any record of impediment updated in order to avoid the occurrence of any prohibited loan or cash advance. For further details on restrictions on the operations of financial institutions, see “Item 4. Regulation and Supervision—Bank Regulations—Principal Limitations and Restrictions on Activities of Financial Institutions.”

Distribution of Products in our Branches

     All of our business units and subsidiaries, including Bradesco Leasing, Bradesco Consórcios, Bradesco Seguros, Bradesco Vida e Previdência and Bradesco Capitalização, use our branch network as a distribution channel for the sale of insurance, pension funds, certificated savings plans, consortiums and other products, leases and services. We record all costs related to the branch network in our financial statements.

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     For further discussion of the use of our branches by our business units and subsidiaries for distribution, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—History and Development of the Company—Distribution Channels—Branch System.”

Other Matters

     Until 2004, we made regular, voluntary contributions to our shareholder Fundação Bradesco, a charitable foundation. We did not make any donations to Fundação Bradesco in 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008. Our donations to Fundação Bradesco totaled R$71.4 million in 2004 and R$62.7 million in 2003. For additional information about Fundação Bradesco, see “—Major Shareholders—Fundação Bradesco” and note 28 to our consolidated financial statements in Item 18.

     Bank of Tokyo Mitsubishi—UFJ (MUFG) owns 1.26% and BES owns 3.58% of our total capital, and they provide credit lines to us for trade-related transactions. The terms of these transactions are consistent with similar transactions that we engage in with other, unrelated entities.

Item 8. Financial Information

     See “Item 18. Financial Statements,” which contains our audited consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

Legal Proceedings

     We are party in civil, tax and labor administrative proceedings and lawsuits that have arisen during the normal course of our business. We do not have any litigation matters that are significant on an individual basis. We believe that there are no suits pending or threatened, individually or in the aggregate, that if decided against us or our subsidiaries would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, properties, prospects or results of operations.

     As of December 31, 2008, of our litigation provision of R$10.0 billion, approximately 15.4% related to labor matters, approximately 69.3% related to tax-related matters and approximately 15.3% related to civil cases. For additional information see note 24 to our Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 18.

     We believe that as of December 31, 2008, we have provisioned sufficient funds to cover our probable losses from litigation matters, subject to the inflation-indexation requirement for provisions relating to certain tax matters.

     Labor matters. During 2008, we became involved in 6,485 new litigation matters related to labor claims, none of which is individually significant. These matters relate primarily to actions brought by employees who have been laid off and who seek recognition of presumed labor rights, such as unpaid overtime, salary leveling and stability, among others. Many of the requests are considered invalid, especially the ones alleging unpaid overtime, since working hours are controlled by electronic time cards.

     Tax-related matters. We are a party in several tax administrative proceedings or lawsuits, including disputes relating to the constitutional validity of certain tax requirements. Some of these claims have the objective of avoiding the payment of taxes with which we do not agree and the other claims intend to recover the amount of taxes that we deem to have been unduly paid. The amounts that we did not pay as a result of these claims are fully provisioned and restated by inflation indexes determined by tax laws. The taxes to be refunded are only recorded when an unappealable decision acknowledging our right is rendered.

     Civil matters. We are a party in various civil lawsuits, none of them individually significant. Lawsuits consist mainly of claims for indemnification for presumed damages caused by the ordinary course of business activities and cases where inflation indices expunged when savings accounts were inflation-adjusted as a result of economic plans, although these adjustments were in accordance with the law in force at the time, once these volumes had an increase in 2007 and 2008.

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     Probable risk cases are all provisioned, and do not incur in a material adverse effect on our results of operations or financial position.

     Other matters. We are not currently the subject of any pending or threatened material proceedings by the Central Bank, CVM, ANS or SUSEP. Our management believes that we are in compliance with all applicable Central Bank, CVM, ANS and SUSEP regulations.

Policy on Dividend Distributions

     Our Bylaws state that our Board of Directors shall recommend, at each annual shareholders’ meeting, a mandatory annual distribution to our shareholders of at least 30.0% of our adjusted net income, which is in excess of the minimum of 25.0% of net income established by Brazilian Corporate Law. For additional information, including exceptions to this requirement, see “Item 10. Additional Information—Memorandum and Articles of Incorporation—Allocation of Net Income and Distribution of Dividends.”

     Brazilian law authorizes companies to pay interest on shareholders’ capital to its shareholders, which is attributed to the amount of mandatory minimum dividend, net of withholding tax.

     Our policy relating to dividend distributions and/or interest on shareholders’ capital is to maximize the amount of distributions, in accordance with our tax management strategy. For additional information, see “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Overview—Taxes.”

Item 9. The Offer and Listing

DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES

     Our capital stock, adjusted to the bonus increase on March 24, 2008 and with the acquisition of Banco BMC S/A, on August 24, 2007, comprises 1,534,934,979 common shares and 1,534,934,821 preferred shares, without par value. Our preferred shares are traded on the BM&FBovespa under the symbol “BBDC4”. Our preferred shares are included in the BM&FBovespa Index. On December 31, 2008, we had 1,534,900,221 preferred shares outstanding.

     Citibank N.A., as depositary bank, issued the Level I ADRs, for trading on the New York Stock Exchange—NYSE in June 1997 and, since February 2001, on the Market for Latin-American Stocks in euros, known as “Latibex,” in Madrid, Spain, under the symbol “XBBDC.”

     In November 2001, our Level II ADRs became listed on the NYSE under the symbol “BBD,” the ratio of ADRs to preferred shares was changed such that each ADRs that formerly represented 5,000 preferred shares now represents one preferred share. In March 2004, in addition to the corporate restructuring we has undergone, we have adjusted the parity of our ADRs in relation to our preferred shares in order to make each ADR to correspond to each preferred share.

     On December 17, 2003, our Board of Directors approved a reverse split of our shares at a 10,000:1 share ratio, resulting in a reverse split of one ADR at a 2:1 ratio, such that each ADR represents one preferred share. The reverse split was approved on January 06, 2004. As a result of the reverse split, the capital stock was altered to 79,894,005 common shares and 78,693,936 preferred shares. As of March 2004, our shares have been traded on the BM&FBovespa, on the NYSE at one share per ADR, and on the Latibex at one share per GDR.

     On December 9, 2004, the extraordinary shareholders’ meeting approved a stock split, without changing value per share, at the ratio of two new shares for each share issued by us.

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     On November 11, 2005, our Board of Directors approved the issuance of subscription bonuses attached to our shares at a ratio of one new share of the same type to each share issued by us. Our shareholders had their equity interests in our capital stock increased, on a free basis. The above-mentioned bonus was approved by the Central Bank on November 14, 2005.

     On March 12, 2007, our Board of Directors approved a split of our capital stock. As a result, our shareholders were entitled to one new share for each existing share of the same class.

     On March 24, 2008, the Board of Directors resolved on the bonus, at the ratio of 1 new share of same type for each 2 shares held.

     These bonuses attached to our shares were carried out on the BM&FBovespa in the sum ratio that was applied to the ADRs on the NYSE and the GDRs on the Latibex, maintaining the ratio of one share for each ADR and one share for each GDR.

     Our ADRs are traded on the NYSE under the ticker symbol “BBD.”

     The following table shows, for the indicated period, the reported high and low closing sale prices in nominal reais for the preferred shares on BM&FBovespa:

    Price per 
Preferred share (1) (2)
  Average monthly 
trading volume (1) (2)
     
    High    Low    (shares in units)
       
    (in R$)
2003    12.61    7.82    51,166,210 
2004    17.15    8.98    47,348,207 
2005    38.07    14.59    49,361,417 
2006    46.02    28.33    47,462,200 
2007             
         1st Quarter    45.13    36.90    52,412,733 
         2nd Quarter    50.36    40.24    56,901,503 
         3rd Quarter    54.32    41.21    58,283,728 
         4th Quarter    62.31    49.90    55,948,786 
2008             
         1st Quarter    56.86    43.46    67,375,667 
         2nd Quarter    51.90    32.20    96,797,533 
         3rd Quarter    34.85    25.76    111,900,567 
         4th Quarter    31.20    18.95    123,826,667 
         December    26.46    21.83    79,297,000 
2009             
      January    25.55    20.01    121,294,900 
      February    23.52    20.10    99,698,670 
      March    23.74    19.32    143,906,400 
      1st Quarter    25.55    19.32    121,633,323 
      April    27.64    22.77    98,273,364 
      May    30.74    26.70    108,251,600 

________________
(1)  
Prices and amounts not adjusted by income. 
(2)  
Prices and amounts adjusted by the stock split approved on March 12, 2007. 
Source: Economatica. 

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     The following table shows, for the indicated periods, the reported high and low closing sale prices in U.S. dollars for the ADRs on the NYSE:

    Price per ADR (1) (2)   Average monthly 
trading volume (1) (2)
(ADRs in units)
    High    Low   
       
    (in US$)    
2003    4.48    2.22    29,240,050 
2004    6.34    2.92    26,441,100 
2005    17.70    5.47    45,086,117 
2006    21.91    12.34    61,540,383 
2007             
          1st Quarter    21.23    17.20    73,638,067 
          2nd Quarter    26.51    19.71    80,578,033 
          3rd Quarter    29.65    19.93    103,583,683 
          4th Quarter    35.61    27.06    97,570,545 
2008             
          1st Quarter    32.87    23.75    147,685,063 
          2nd Quarter    31.12    20.21    187,054,009 
          3rd Quarter    21.99    13.29    251,120,315 
          4th Quarter    16.69    7.40    257,362,729 
          December    11.77    8.98    199,690,772 
2009             
         January    11.74    8.32    214,667,561 
         February    10.47    7.81    209,131,727 
         March    10.55    7.89    232,185,314 
         1st Quarter    11.74    7.81    218,664,867 
         April    12.74    9.88    193,507,178 
         May    15.47    12.11    185,949,170 

________________
(1)  
Prices and amounts not adjusted by income. 
(2)  
Prices and amounts adjusted by the stock split approved on March 12, 2007. 
Source: Economatica. 

     Our preferred shares are registered in book-entry form and we perform all the services of safe-keeping and transfer of shares. Our shareholders may choose to hold their shares through the CBLC. Under Brazilian law non-Brazilian holders of our preferred shares may be subject to certain adverse tax consequences due to their ownership and any transfer of the preferred shares. For further discussion of the restrictions on the transfer of preferred shares, see “Item 10. Additional Information—Memorandum and Articles of Incorporation—Organization—Form and Transfer” and “—Exchange Controls.”

     Our ADSs are evidenced by ADRs as definitive receipts. ADSs may be held in book-entry form through financial institutions that are participants in the Depositary Trust Company, or DTC. The depositary bank, as registrar, performs the services of transfer of the ADRs. Title to an ADR (and to each ADS evidenced thereby), when properly endorsed or accompanied by proper instruments of transfer, is transferable by delivery with the same effect as in the case of a certificated security under the laws of the State of New York. Holders of the ADRs who transfer their ADRs may be required to:

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     All of our outstanding shares are fully paid and non-assessable.

     The rights of holders of our preferred shares are limited in comparison with those of the holders of common shares in several material ways:

     The holders of the ADSs have the rights corresponding to the underlying preferred shares, subject to the deposit agreement. Owners of the ADSs are parties to the deposit agreement and therefore are bound to its terms and to the terms of the ADRs that represent the ADSs.

TRADING ON THE BM&FBOVESPA

     BM&FBovespa is a publicly traded corporation. Beginning in April 2000, the Brazilian stock exchanges were reorganized through the execution of protocols of intention by the Brazilian stock exchanges. Until April 2004, all shares underlying securities were traded only on the BM&FBovespa, with the exception of privatization auctions, which occurred on the Rio de Janeiro Stock Exchange. In May 2004, the Rio de Janeiro Stock Exchange reopened for the trading of certain Brazilian government securities.

     If you were to trade in our preferred shares on the BM&FBovespa, your trade would settle in three business days after the trade date. The seller is ordinarily required to deliver the shares to the exchange before 10:00 A.M. on the third business day following the trade date. Delivery of and payment for shares are made through the facilities of the CBLC.

     The BM&FBovespa is less liquid than the NYSE or other major exchanges in the world. On December 31, 2008, the aggregate market capitalization of the 392 companies listed on the BM&FBovespa, was equivalent to approximately US$588.5 billion and the ten largest companies listed on the BM&FBovespa represented approximately 52.4% of the total market capitalization of all listed companies. Although any of the outstanding shares of a listed company may trade on a Brazilian stock exchange, in most cases fewer than half of the listed shares are actually available for trading by the public, the remainder being held by a small group of controlling persons, by governmental entities or by one principal shareholder. As of December 31, 2008, we accounted for approximately 9.1% of the market capitalization of all listed companies on the BM&FBovespa.

     Trading on Brazilian stock exchanges by a holder not deemed to be domiciled in Brazil for Brazilian tax and regulatory purposes (a “non-Brazilian holder”) is subject to certain limitations under Brazilian foreign investment legislation. With limited exceptions, non-Brazilian holders may only trade on Brazilian stock exchanges in accordance with the requirements of Resolution 2,689 of the CMN. Resolution 2,689 requires that securities held by non-Brazilian holders be maintained in the custody of, or in deposit accounts with, financial institutions duly authorized by the Central Bank and the CVM. In addition, Resolution 2,689 requires non-Brazilian holders to restrict their securities trading to transactions on Brazilian stock exchanges or qualified over-the-counter markets. With limited exceptions, non-Brazilian holders may not transfer to other non-Brazilian holders the ownership of investments made under Resolution 2,689. See “Item 10. Additional Information - Exchange Controls” for further information about Resolution 2,689, and “- Taxation - Brazilian Tax Considerations - Taxation of Gains” for a description of certain tax benefits extended to non-Brazilian holders who qualify under Resolution 2,689.

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Item 10. Additional Information.

MEMORANDUM AND ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION

     We are a publicly traded company duly registered with the CVM under No. 00090-6. Article 5 of our bylaws establishes our purpose as carrying out banking transactions in general, including foreign exchange activities.

Comparison of Bradesco Corporate Governance Rules and the Rules of the NYSE Applicable to U.S. Companies

     On November 4, 2003, the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) approved the final corporate governance rules of the NYSE. According to such rules, foreign private issuers are subject to a more limited set of requirements regarding corporate governance than those imposed on U.S. domestic issuers. As a foreign private issuer, we must comply with three rules imposed by the NYSE:

  (i) 
the requirements set forth by the SEC concerning audit committees;
 
  (ii) 
our CEO must promptly notify the SEC in writing after any executive officer becomes aware of any material non-compliance with any of the applicable NYSE corporate governance rules; and
 
  (iii) 
we shall provide a brief description disclosing any significant ways in which our corporate governance practices differ from those followed by U.S. companies under NYSE listing standards.

     The chart below provides a brief description of the significant differences between our corporate governance practices and those followed by U.S. companies under NYSE listing standards.

Article    NYSE Corporate Governance Rules for Domestic Issuers    Bradesco Corporate Governance Rules 
     
 
303A.01   
Independent directors must comprise a majority of the members of the board of directors of a listed company on NYSE. 
 
Brazilian law provides that only shareholders of a company may be appointed to its board of directors. Accordingly, there is no legal or statutory provision requiring Bradesco to have independent directors, however, one of our directors is independent and represents BES located in Portugal . There is no minimum share ownership or residency requirement for qualification as a director. 
 
303A.03   
Non-management directors of a listed company must meet at regularly scheduled executive sessions without management. 
 
With the exception of our CEO, who is also a director of the Company, none of the directors of Bradesco are managers. The directors have regularly scheduled executive sessions at least once per year in order to evaluate his performance. 
 
303A.04   
Listed companies must have a nominating/corporate governance committee composed entirely of independent directors, with a written charter that addresses specific minimum requirements. 
 
We have a Corporate Governance Executive Committee composed of management from Bradesco. The Committee has a charter that addresses its minimum requirements. 

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Article    NYSE Corporate Governance Rules for Domestic Issuers    Bradesco Corporate Governance Rules 
     
 
303A.05   
Listed companies must have a compensation committee composed entirely of independent directors, with a written charter that addresses specific minimum requirements. 
 
We have a Compensation Committee of three to five members, who are all members of the Board of Directors. The members are appointed by the Board of Directors, each with a one-year term of office. The committee’s primary responsibility is to provide the Board of Directors with proposed policies and guidelines related to the compensation of our managers. The compensation is to be based on performance targets established by the Board. 

None of the members of the Compensation Committee are independent directors. The compensation committee has a written charter that states the responsibilities of the committee. 
 
 
303A.06 


303A.07 
 
Listed companies must have an audit committee, composed by a minimum of three members who satisfy the requirements of Rule 10A–3 under the Exchange Act, with a written charter that addresses specific minimum requirements. 
 
Pursuant to our Bylaws and to Central Bank regulations since December 2003, we have appointed an Audit Committee. Our Audit Committee is comprised of three to five members, each of whom serves for a term of one year, and is appointed by, and may be replaced by, the Board of Directors. All the members to the Audit Committee are independent from our management. We currently have four members on our audit committee, and only one of these members is also a member of our Board of Directors. Under Brazilian law, the function of hiring independent auditors is reserved for the board of directors of a company. As a result, our Board of Directors acts as our Audit Committee, as specified in Section 3(a)(58) of the Exchange Act, for purposes of approving, on a case-by-case basis, any engagement of our independent auditors for audit and non-audit services provided to our subsidiaries or to us. Except in these respects, our audit committee is comparable to and performs the functions of audit committees of U.S. companies. Since our audit committee is a separate organ from our Board of Directors, pursuant to Central Bank regulations, we have relied on the exemption set forth in Exchange Act Rule 10A-3(c)(3) in this regard.

The main obligations of our Audit Committee are: 
 
        •   
recommending to the Board of Directors which outside firm should be hired to provide independent audit services and the amount of compensation such firm should receive, as well as to recommend the replacement of such firm; 
 
        •   
reviewing statutory financial statements prior to their disclosure, including the explanatory notes to the financial statements, the independent auditor’s report and any management reports; 
 
        •   
establishing policies and procedures for responding to any reports or allegations of a failure to comply with applicable legal requirements or internal codes and regulations, including procedures to ensure the confidentiality and protection of any persons providing information regarding such failures; 
 
        •   
evaluating the work of both the internal and the independent auditors, including their compliance with applicable legal obligations and internal regulations and codes; 

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Article    NYSE Corporate Governance Rules for Domestic Issuers    Bradesco Corporate Governance Rules 
     
         
meeting with the Board of Executive Officers and both the independent and the external auditors at least quarterly. 
 
 
       
We also have a Fiscal Council, which can have from three members and three substitutes. It currently has three members and three alternates. The Fiscal Council is an independent corporate body. In accordance with Brazilian Corporate Law, the Fiscal Council’s responsibilities include: 
 
        •   
supervising, through any of its members, the actions of our managers and verifying the fulfillment of their duties; 
 
        •   
reviewing and issuing opinions regarding our statutory financial statements prior to their disclosure, including the explanatory notes to the financial statements, the independent auditor’s report and any management reports; and 
 
         
opining on any management proposals to be submitted to the shareholders’ meeting related to changes in our share capital, issuances of debentures or rights offerings entitling the holder to subscribe for equity, investment plans and capital expenditure budgets, distributions of dividends and/or interest on shareholders’ equity, change in the corporate structure, mergers, consolidations or spin-offs. 
 
303A.08   
Shareholders must be given the opportunity to vote on equity-compensation plans and material revisions thereto, with limited exemptions set forth in the NYSE rules. 
 
Under the Brazilian Corporate Law, shareholder approval is required for the adoption of any compensation plans upon delivery of equity interests. We currently do not have any stock option based compensation plan. 
 
303A.09   
Listed companies must adopt and disclose corporate governance guidelines addressing specific minimum requirements. 
 
Our corporate governance guidelines and practices are available in our website at bradesco.com.br, in the Corporate Governance section. 
 
303A.10   
Listed companies must adopt and disclose a code of business conduct and ethics for directors, officers and employees, and promptly disclose any waivers of the code for directors or executive officers. 
 
We have adopted code of ethics, which applies to the CEO, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Accounting Officer and any person in similar positions, to the members of the Board of Directors, the Board of Executive Officers and employees, as well as to our partners, suppliers and service providers. We have an Ethics Committee, appointed by the Board of Directors, which is responsible for the enforcement of the Codes of Ethics, including determining which actions to take concerning the disclosure, dissemination and fulfillment of the Codes of Ethics, as well as ensuring its effectiveness. 

We will post any modifications or waivers to either Codes of Ethics on our website. 

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Article    NYSE Corporate Governance Rules for Domestic Issuers    Bradesco Corporate Governance Rules 
     
 
303A.12   
A CEO of a listed company must promptly notify the NYSE in writing after any executive officer of the listed company becomes aware of any material non-compliance with any applicable provisions of Section 303A. 
 
Our CEO shall promptly notify the NYSE in writing, should any executive officer become aware of any material non-compliance with any applicable provision of the NYSE corporate governance rules. 

Organization

Qualification of Directors

     Brazilian law provides that only shareholders of a company may be appointed to its board of directors. There is no minimum share ownership or residency requirement for qualification as director.

Allocation of Net Income and Distribution of Dividends

     Our bylaws require the Board of Directors to recommend, at each annual shareholders’ meeting, the allocation of net income for the fiscal year as follows:

     Our bylaws also authorize our shareholders to allocate an amount to a reserve for realizable revenue. Historically, our shareholders have not allocated amounts to such reserve.

     The minimum of 30.0% of our adjusted net income according to BR GAAP must be distributed as annual dividends and must be paid out within 60 days of the annual shareholders’ meeting in which the distribution is approved. However, Brazilian law permits us to suspend payment of the mandatory distribution if our Board of Directors reports to the shareholders’ assembly that the distribution would be incompatible with our financial condition, event in which the suspension is subject to approval by the shareholders’ meeting. Under Brazilian Corporate Law, the Conselho Fiscal shall prepare a report on this matter and the Board of Directors is obligated to present a justification for the suspension with the CVM within five days of the shareholders’ assembly. The income not distributed due to the suspension must be allocated to a special reserve. If not absorbed by subsequent losses, the amounts in the reserve shall be paid as dividends as soon as our financial situation permits.

     Preferred shareholders are entitled to receive dividends per share in an amount 10.0% greater than the dividends per share paid to the common shareholders.

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     Under Brazilian law, we must prepare financial statements at least on a quarterly basis. Our Board of Executive Officers, with Board of Directors approval, may distribute dividends based on the profits reported in interim financial statements. Our by-laws provide for the payment of interim dividends, which cannot exceed the amount of our retained earnings or our profit reserves contained in our last, annual or bi-annual financial statements. Our Board of Executive Officers bases the amount of the interim dividends on previously accrued or retained earnings.

     Since 1970, we have been distributing dividends on a monthly basis. Consistent with Brazilian law, our bylaws allow our Board of Executive Officers, upon approval by the Board of Directors, to make distributions in the form of interest on shareholders’ capital instead of dividends. Payments of interest on shareholders’ capital may be considered for the calculation of the mandatory dividend; such inclusion must be at net value.

     Under Brazilian law, a shareholder who does not receive a dividend payment may start a proceeding for the charging of these payments within three years, counting from the date when the dividends are made available for distribution. When that term ends, the unclaimed dividends return to the Company.

General Meetings of the Shareholders

     Our shareholders have the power to decide any matters related to our corporate purpose and to approve any resolutions they deem necessary for our protection and development, through voting at a general shareholders’ general meeting.

     We call our shareholders’ general meetings by publishing a notice in the Official Gazette of the State of São Paulo and the Diário do Comércio, both in the state of São Paulo. The notice must be published three times, beginning at least 15 calendar days prior to the scheduled assembly date. The notice must contain the assembly’s agenda and, in the case of a proposed amendment to our bylaws, an indication of the subject matter.

     The Board of Directors, or, in some specific situations set forth in the Brazilian Corporate Law, the shareholders, may call our general shareholders’ general meetings. A shareholder may be represented at a general shareholders’ general meeting by an attorney-in-fact so long as the attorney-in-fact was appointed less than a year of the assembly. The attorney-in-fact must be a shareholder, a member of our management, a lawyer or a financial institution. The power of attorney given the attorney-in-fact must comply with certain formalities set forth by Brazilian law.

     In order for a general shareholders’ general meeting validly to take any action, shareholders representing at least one quarter of our issued and outstanding common shares must be present at the assembly. However, in the case of a general meeting to amend our bylaws, shareholders representing at least two-thirds of our issued and outstanding common shares must be present. If no such quorum is verified, the board of directors may call a second meeting by notice given at least eight calendar days prior to the scheduled assembly and otherwise in accordance with the rules of publication described above. The quorum requirements will not apply to a second meeting, subject to the quorum requirements applicable to the first one.

Voting Rights

     Each common share entitles its holder to the right of one vote at our shareholders’ meetings. Except as otherwise provided by law, the decisions of a general shareholders’ meeting are passed by a vote by holders of a simple majority of our common shares, while abstentions are not taken into account.

     In March 2002, the Brazilian Corporate Law was amended to, among other issues, grant more protection to minority shareholders and ensure them to the right to appoint one member of the Board of Directors and an alternate to our Board of Directors. To qualify for the exercise of such right, the minority shareholder must have held, for at least the prior three months, either (i) preferred shares representing at least 10.0% of our share capital, or (ii) common shares representing at least 15.0% of our voting shares. If no shareholders meet the thresholds, shareholders representing at least 10.0% of our share capital may be able to combine their holdings to appoint one member and an alternate to our Board of Directors.

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     From 2003 to 2005, if shareholders holding preferred shares decide to exercise such right, they could choose one member and its respective alternate to our Board of Directors based on a three-name list prepared by the controlling shareholder of the company. The voting right mentioned in the precedent paragraph has not yet been exercised by our minority shareholders, since an independent member of our minority shareholder, BES, was elected.

     The Brazilian Corporate Law provides that non-voting preferred shares acquire voting rights when a company has failed for the term provided for in its by-laws (for more than three fiscal years) to pay any fixed or minimum dividend to which such shares are entitled. Such voting rights remain effective until payment of the cumulative dividends is made.

Shareholders

     Pursuant to Brazilian law, the approval of the holders of a majority of the outstanding adversely affected preferred shares as well as shareholders representing at least one-half of the issued and outstanding common shares is required for the following actions:

     These actions are put to the vote of the holders of the adversely affected preferred shares at a special assembly, where each preferred share entitles the shareholder to one vote. Preferred shareholders have the right to vote on any change to our legal form and obtain the right to vote if we enter into a liquidation process.

     The approval of holders of at least one-half of the issued common shares is required for the following actions:

     Pursuant to Brazilian Corporate Law, holders of common shares, voting at a general shareholders’ assembly, have the exclusive power to:

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Preemptive Rights

     Each of our shareholders has a general preemptive right to subscribe for shares or convertible securities in any capital increase in proportion to its holding. Shareholders must be granted at least a 30-day period following the publication of notice of the issuance of shares or convertible securities to exercise their preemptive rights.

     As described under “—Regulations of and Restrictions on Foreign Investors,” under the Brazilian constitution the increase of foreign investors’ participation in the voting capital (common shares) of financial institutions is subject to prior authorization by the Brazilian government. Therefore, in the event common shares are offered, our foreign shareholders could be prevented from exercising their preemptive rights.

     In the event of a capital increase that would maintain or increase the proportion of capital represented by the preferred shares, holders of preferred shares would have preemptive rights to subscribe to newly issued preferred shares only. In the event of a capital increase that would reduce the proportion of capital represented by the preferred shares, holders of preferred shares would have preemptive rights to subscribe to any new preferred shares in proportion to their shareholdings, and to common shares (subject to the restrictions on foreign ownership mentioned above) only to the extent necessary to prevent dilution of their interests in our total capital. Under Brazilian Corporate Law, shareholders are permitted to transfer or dispose of their preemptive rights.

     You may not be able to exercise the preemptive rights relating to the preferred shares underlying your ADSs unless a registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933 is effective with respect to those rights or an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act is available. In such an event, the contractual arrangements governing the ADSs provide that the custodian of the shares underlying the ADSs may, if possible, transfer or dispose of the pre-emptive rights. Such contractual arrangements related to the ADSs, provide for the custodian to remit the consideration received to the depositary bank that holds the ADSs and distributed by the depositary bank to holders of ADSs, net of any fees due to the custodian and the depositary bank. For more details see “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to the Preferred Shares and ADSs.”

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Right of Withdrawal

     Brazilian Corporate Law provides that under certain circumstances a shareholder has the right to withdraw his or her equity interest from a company and to receive a payment for the portion of shareholder’s equity attributable to his or her equity interest.

     This right of withdrawal may be exercised:

     Our dissenting or non-voting shareholders also have a right of withdrawal in the event that the entity resulting from our merger, merger of our shares, or spin-off does not become a listed company within 120 days of the shareholders’ assembly at which the relevant decision was taken. The dissenting or non-voting shareholders only have a withdrawal right if they owned the shares, which have been adversely affected at the time of the first call for the shareholders’ assembly in which the relevant decision was made. If a public announcement of the action taken or to be taken was made prior to the call for the shareholders’ assembly, the shareholders’ ownership of shares is based on the date of announcement.

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     The right of withdrawal lapses thirty days after publication of the minutes of the shareholders’ assembly at which the action is taken, except when the resolution is subject to confirmation by the preferred shareholders (which must be made at a special assembly to be held within one year). In that case the 30-day term is counted from the date the minutes of the special assembly are published. We would be entitled to reconsider any action giving rise to redemption rights within ten days following the expiration of such rights if the redemption of shares of dissenting shareholders would jeopardize our financial stability.

     In all the situations described above, our shares would be redeemable at their book value, determined on the basis of the last balance sheet approved by our shareholders. If the shareholders’ assembly giving rise to withdrawal rights occurs more than sixty days after the date of the last approved balance sheet, a shareholder may demand that its shares be valued on the basis of a new balance sheet of a date within sixty days preceding such shareholders’ assembly.

Liquidation

     In the event of our liquidation, our preferred shareholders would be entitled to priority over common shareholders in the return of capital. The amount to which they would be entitled is based on the portion of the capital stock represented by the preferred shares, as adjusted from time to time to reflect any capital increases or reductions. After all our creditors had been paid, our residual assets would be used to return the amount of capital represented by the preferred shares to the preferred shareholders. Once the preferred shareholders had been fully reimbursed, the common shareholders would be reimbursed on the portion of the capital stock represented by the common shares. All our shareholders would participate equally and ratably in any remaining residual assets.

Redemption

     Our bylaws provide that our shares are not redeemable. However, Brazilian Corporate Law authorizes us to redeem minority shareholders’ shares if, after a public tender offer for our delisting, our controlling shareholder increases its participation in our total capital stock to more than 95.0% .

Conversion Rights

     Our bylaws provide that our common shares cannot be converted into preferred shares or our preferred shares into common shares.

Liability of Our Shareholders for Further Capital Calls

     Neither Brazilian law nor our bylaws provide for capital calls. Our shareholders’ liability is limited to the payment of the issue price of the shares subscribed or acquired.

Form and Transfer

     Our shares are registered in book-entry form and we perform all the services of safekeeping and transfer of shares. To make the transfer we make an entry in the register, debit the share account of the transferor and credit the share account of the transferee.

     Transfers of shares by a foreign investor are made in the same way and executed by the investor’s local agent on the investor’s behalf. However, if the original investment was registered with the Central Bank pursuant to a foreign investment mechanism regulated by the CMN’s Resolution 2,689 as described under “Exchange Controls”, the foreign investor must declare the transfer in its electronic registration.

     Our shareholders may opt to hold their shares through CBLC. Shares are added to the CBLC system through Brazilian institutions, which have clearing accounts with the CBLC. Our shareholder registry indicates which shares are listed on the CBLC system. Each participating shareholder is in turn registered in a register of beneficial shareholders maintained by the CBLC and is treated in the same manner as our registered shareholders.

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Brazilian Rules Related to Information Disclosure

     In January 2002, the CVM issued regulations, which were amended in June 2002 and March 2007, regarding the disclosure of information to the market. These regulations include provisions which:

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Regulation of and Restrictions on Non-Brazilian Holders

     The Brazilian constitution prohibits any increase in the foreign participation in the capital stock of financial institutions headquartered in Brazil. However, because we are a publicly-traded financial institution, non-Brazilian holders of our preferred shares benefit from an exception to this provision. Accordingly, foreign holders face no legal restrictions on the ownership of our preferred shares or of ADRs based on our preferred shares, and are entitled to all the rights and preferences of such preferred shares.

     However, the ability to convert into foreign currency dividend payments and proceeds from the sale of preferred shares or preemptive rights and to remit such amounts outside Brazil is subject to restrictions under foreign investment legislation which generally requires, among other things, the registration of the relevant investment with the Central Bank. Nonetheless, any non-Brazilian holder who registers with the CVM in accordance with Resolution 2,689 may buy and sell securities on Brazilian stock exchanges without obtaining a separate certificate of registration for each transaction.

     Appendix V to Resolution No. 1,289 of the CMN, known as the “Appendix V Regulations,” allows Brazilian companies to issue depositary receipts in foreign exchange markets. Our ADR program is duly registered with the Central Bank.

     Our bylaws do not impose any limitation on the rights of Brazilian residents or non-residents to hold our shares and exercise the rights in connection therewith.

New Civil Code

     A new Brazilian civil code became effective on January 11, 2003. The new code was issued with the intent of updating Brazilian civil legislation. The new code introduced various changes, including changes to existing contract and Brazilian Corporate Law. Transactions and other acts carried out prior to effectiveness of the new civil code continue to be regulated by the previous law, except that the effects of such transactions, if produced after January 11, 2003, as well as any transactions or other acts carried out subsequent to such date, are subject to the new civil code.

Transfer of Control

     Our bylaws do not contain any provision that would have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in our control or that would operate only with respect to a merger, acquisition or corporate restructuring involving ourselves or any of our subsidiaries. However, Brazilian banking regulations require that any transfer of control of a financial institution be previously approved by the Central Bank.

     Additionally, Brazilian Corporate Law provides that acquisition of control of a publicly held company is contingent on tender offers for all outstanding common shares at a price equivalent to at least 80% of the price per share paid for the controlling block. In December 2003, we amended our by-laws to provide that in the event of a change in our control, the acquirer will be required to pay our shareholders an amount equal to (a) in the case of our non-controlling common shareholders, 100.0% of the price per share paid to our controlling shareholders and (b) in the case of our preferred shareholders, 80% of the price per share paid for our controlling shareholders.

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     In the case of our liquidation, our preferred shareholders would be entitled to priority over our common shareholders in the return of capital. See “—Liquidation” for more information. In addition, in the event of a transfer of control, our shareholders have the right of withdrawal under certain circumstances. See “- Right of Withdrawal” for more information.

     Brazilian Corporate Law also obliges our controlling shareholder to make a tender offer for our shares if it increases its interest in our capital stock to a level that materially and negatively affects the liquidity of our shares.

Disclosure of Shareholder Ownership

     Brazilian regulations require that any person or group of persons representing the same interest that has directly or indirectly acquired an interest corresponding to 5.0% of any type or class of shares of a publicly traded company must disclose its share ownership to the CVM and stock exchanges. In addition, a statement containing the required information must be published in the newspapers. Any subsequent increase or decrease of five percent or more in ownership of any type or class of shares must be similarly disclosed.

BM&FBovespa’s Differentiated Corporate Governance Practices

     BM&FBovespa has a program known as the Differentiated Corporate Governance Practices program, which we refer to as the “DCGP program.” Under the DCGP program, listed companies may elect to adhere to one or two sets of rules which apply to the Company, its management and controlling shareholders and are intended to promote good corporate governance practices and improve market disclosure.

     Since 2001, we have been in compliance with a less strict set of rules called DCPG. According to such rules, we must comply with:

MATERIAL AGREEMENTS

     On June 9, 2003, our shareholders Cidade de Deus Participações and Fundação Bradesco entered into the Shareholders’ Agreement with BBVA. Under the terms of the Agreement, BBVA has the right to elect one member of our board of directors. The Shareholders’ Agreement provides that BBVA will have this right so long as BBVA owns at least 3.94% of our voting capital. However, if BBVA’s participation falls below this percentage threshold due to an increase in our capital stock in which our shareholders, including BBVA, are not given preemptive rights, BBVA’s right to elect a member of our board of directors will not be affected.

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     On March 4, 2008, BBVA exercised its put option for all common shares or 5% of our common capital over Controlling Shareholders. The Controlling Shareholders and BBVA concluded such purchase and sale at April 11, 2008, with payment on April 16, 2008, for all shares and the Shareholders’ Agreement is no longer effective since April 11, 2008.

     On April 11, 2008, the controlling shareholders sold to BES, Portugal, the corresponding to 1.5% of common shares issued by Bradesco.

EXCHANGE CONTROLS

     The Central Bank may impose temporary restrictions on the remittance of foreign capital abroad, including payments of principal, interests or dividends, and on the repatriation of capital whenever it is foreseen a significant imbalance in Brazil’s balance of payments. The last occurrence of restrictions on the remittance of foreign capital was in 1989, when for approximately six months in 1989 and early 1990 the Brazilian government suspended all remittances abroad of dividends and invested capital. The Central Bank subsequently released these amounts for remittance abroad in accordance with specific guidelines. The Brazilian government may take similar measures in the future.

     Under Brazilian tax laws, non-Brazilian holders of securities enjoy favorable tax treatment if they have qualified under Resolution 2,689. To qualify under Resolution 2,689, a non-Brazilian holder must:

     See “—Taxation—Brazilian Tax Considerations—Taxation of Gains” for a description of the tax benefits extended to non-Brazilian holders of securities who qualify under Resolution 2,689.

     Under Resolution 2,689 securities held by non-Brazilian holders must be maintained under the custody of, or in deposit accounts held in financial institutions duly authorized by the Central Bank and the CVM. In addition, securities trading is restricted under Resolution 2,689 to transactions on Brazilian stock exchanges or qualified over-the-counter markets.

     Registered non-Brazilian holders are allowed to invest in any type of investment available to Brazilian citizens in the financial and securities markets, with the exception that the Brazilian constitution limits the ability of non-Brazilian holders to acquire capital of financial institutions, as mentioned above under “—Regulation of and Restrictions on Non-Brazilian holders.” Registration allows investors to remit foreign currency abroad when the funds are distributions on registered preferred shares or proceeds from the disposition of such shares. The funds are converted into foreign currency at the Exchange Market rate.

     The registered capital for each preferred share purchased in Brazil and deposited with the custodian is equal to its purchase price (informed in U.S. dollars). If an ADS holder chooses to cancel ADSs in exchange for preferred shares, the investment in preferred shares may be registered with the Central Bank. Such registration is necessary for the holder to receive profit sharing or proceeds from the sale of the shares outside of Brazil.

     Pursuant to Resolution 2,689, the registration of a foreign investment is made electronically by the local representative of the foreign investor. The registered capital for a preferred share withdrawn from the depositary bank upon cancellation of an ADS will be the U.S. dollar equivalent of:

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     When a holder of ADSs exchanges ADSs for the underlying preferred shares, the holder is entitled to either:

     Holders that do not comply with the rules described above may still register their investment, but the registration process will be subject to detailed procedures established by the Central Bank. Holders that do not comply with these rules may also be subject to monetary penalties.

TAXATION

     The following summary contains a description of the major consequences about Brazilian taxes incurring on the income and U.S. federal income tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of our preferred shares or ADSs, but it does not purport to be a comprehensive description of all the tax considerations that may be relevant to a decision to purchase our preferred shares or ADSs. Accordingly, prospective purchasers of preferred shares or ADSs should consult their own tax advisors as to the tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of preferred shares or ADSs.

     This summary is based upon the tax laws of Brazil and the United States as in effect on the date hereof, which are subject to change.

     Currently, there is no income tax treaty for double taxation signed between Brazil and the United States. However, due to the reciprocity of treatment in the United States, the Brazilian revenue authority ensures to residents in Brazil the right to deduct, from the income tax due, the tax amount levied on the income already paid in the United States. Although the tax authorities of the two countries have had discussions that may culminate in this treaty, no assurance can be provided regarding the possibility of a treaty of this kind or how it will affect the U.S. holders of our preferred shares or ADSs. Accordingly, prospective holders of our preferred shares or ADSs should consult their own tax advisors as to the tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of preferred shares or ADSs in their particular circumstances.

Brazilian Tax Considerations

     The following discussion summarizes the principal Brazilian tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of preferred shares or ADSs by a non-Brazilian holder. This discussion does not analyze all the Brazilian tax considerations that may be applicable to any particular non-Brazilian holder, and each non-Brazilian holder should consult its own tax advisor about the Brazilian tax consequences of investing in preferred shares or ADSs.

Taxation of Dividends

     Dividends from profits of years beginning on or after January 1, 1996 that we pay to any beneficiary, including depositary bank in respect of preferred shares underlying ADSs or and a non-Brazilian holder in respect of preferred shares are not subject to Brazilian withholding income tax. Only dividends paid from profits generated prior to January 1, 1996 are subject to Brazilian withholding income tax unless the amount of the relevant dividend is used to increase our capital and we do not redeem those shares for a period of five years. Pursuant to Brazilian law, we assume the responsibility for withholding and paying any tax on dividends we distribute.

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Distributions of Interest on Shareholders’ Equity

     Brazilian corporations may, subject to certain limitations, make payments to shareholders in the form of interest on shareholders’ equity, as an alternative to carry out profit sharing. The principal difference between dividends and interest on shareholders’ capital is their tax treatment.

     Dividends payments are not deductible for income tax purposes. On the other hand, for determination of the income tax due by a Brazilian legal entity, we may deduct distributions of interest on shareholders’ capital paid to Brazilian and non-Brazilian holders of preferred and common shares, including payments to the depositary bank in respect of preferred shares underlying ADSs, up to an interest rate which does not exceed the pro rata die fluctuation of the rate of the Federal government’s long-term interest rate, TJLP applied on the shareholders’ equity and appraised based on the generally accepted accounting principles in Brazil. The total amount distributed as interest on shareholders’ capital, which may be deducted for purposes of corporate income tax and social contribution tax, may not exceed the greater of:

     Payments of interest on shareholders’ capital are subject to Brazilian withholding tax at the rate of 15.0%, except for payments to persons who are exempt from tax in Brazil. For payments to persons who are resident in a jurisdiction that under Brazilian law is deemed to be a “tax haven” (any country that (a) does not impose income tax or that taxes income at a rate of less than 20.0% or (b) a country whose corporate law establishes confidentiality of the corporate entities’ shareholders, Brazilian tax law subjects such payments to withholding tax at the source at a 25.0% rate. It is our responsibility to withhold and pay the tax levied on interest on shareholders’ capital we distribute.

     Amounts paid as interest on shareholders’ capital (net of withholding tax owed) may be treated as payments in respect of the mandatory dividends we are obligated to distribute to our shareholders in accordance with our bylaws. Distributions of interest on shareholders’ capital in respect of the preferred shares, including distributions to the depositary bank in respect of preferred shares underlying ADSs, may be converted into U.S. dollars and remitted outside of Brazil, subject to applicable exchange controls.

     Payments of interest on shareholders’ capital are decided by the Board of Directors on the basis of recommendations of our Board of Executive Officers.

     Our Board of Directors has traditionally approved the distribution of the maximum amount of interest on shareholders’ capital permitted by law.

Taxation of Gains

     Gains realized outside Brazil by a holder not residing in Brazil on the disposition of ADSs or preferred shares to another non-Brazilian holder are not subject to Brazilian tax.

     Gains realized by holders residing in Brazil on any disposition of preferred shares in Brazil are subject to tax at the following rates:

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     The earnings reached in “day trade” operations in Stock Exchanges, of Goods, Futures and Similar, are subject to withholding income tax at a 1.0% rate, and this tax may be deduced from the tax on the net gains reached in the month.

     By January 1, 2005, the net gains from trading, realized in stock exchanges, of goods, futures and similar, except for the day trade ones (that remain subject to taxation as mentioned above) are subject to 0.005% of withholding income tax. For more information regarding this case occurring, see “Item 10. Taxation”.

     Gains realized on any disposition of preferred shares in Brazil by non-Brazilian holders who are resident in a country that under Brazilian law is deemed to be a tax haven are subject to the same rates applicable to Brazilian holders, as described above.

     Capital gains realized on disposition of preferred shares in Brazil by non-Brazilian holders who are not resident in a “tax haven” are not subject to Brazilian tax if:

     Otherwise, the same treatment applicable to Brazilian residents will apply.

     Gain on the disposition of preferred shares is measured by the difference in U.S. dollars between the amount in foreign currency received on the sale or exchange and the acquisition cost of the shares sold, measured in Brazilian currency without any correction for inflation and converted into the foreign currency based on the exchange rate published by Central Bank in such date in which the acquisition was made. The acquisition cost of shares registered as an investment with the Central Bank is calculated on the basis of its effective cost as evidenced by valid documentation or, in its absence, on the basis of the foreign currency amount registered with the Central Bank. See “- Exchange Controls.”

     Except for the international avoidance of double taxation tax treaty signed with Japan, Brazil’s other signed international tax treaties do not grant relief from taxes on gains realized on sales or exchanges of preferred shares. Gains realized by a non-Brazilian holder upon the redemption of preferred shares would be treated as gains from the disposition of such preferred shares to a Brazilian resident occurring off of a stock exchange and would accordingly be subject to income tax at a rate of 15.0% (except for tax heaven residents , which applicable rate would be 25%).

     Any exercise of preemptive rights relating to the preferred shares or ADSs will not be subject to Brazilian taxation. Gains on the sale or assignment of preemptive rights relating to the preferred shares will be treated differently for Brazilian tax purposes depending on:

  (i) 
whether the sale or assignment is made by or on behalf of the depositary bank or the investor; and
 
  (ii) 
whether the transaction takes place on a Brazilian stock exchange.

     Gains on sales or assignments made by or on behalf of the depositary bank on a Brazilian stock exchange are not taxed in Brazil, but gains on other sales or assignments may be subject to income tax at rates up to 15.0% ..

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     The deposit of preferred shares in exchange for ADSs may be subject to Brazilian tax if the amount previously registered with the Central Bank as a foreign investment in preferred shares is lower than the product of multiplying the total number of shares deposited on the date of the deposit by:

  (i) 
the average price per preferred share on a Brazilian stock exchange on which the greatest number of such shares were sold on the date of deposit; or
 
  (ii) 
if no preferred shares were sold on that day, the average price on the Brazilian stock exchange on which the greatest number of preferred shares were sold during the 15 preceding trading sessions.

     In this case, the difference between the amount previously registered and the average price of the preferred shares, calculated as set forth above, is considered a capital gain subject to income tax at a rate of 15.0% (unless the preferred shares were held in accordance with Resolution 2,689, in which case the exchange would be tax-free).

     On receipt of the underlying preferred shares, a non-Brazilian holder entitled to benefits under Resolution 2,689 will be entitled to register the U.S. dollar value of such shares with the Central Bank as previously described under “—Exchange Controls.” If the non-Brazilian holder does not qualify under Resolution 2,689, it will be subject to the less favorable tax treatment previously described in respect of exchanges of preferred shares.

     The withdrawal of preferred shares in exchange for ADSs is not subject to Brazilian tax.

Other Brazilian Taxes

     There are no Brazilian inheritance, gift or succession taxes applicable to the ownership, transfer or disposition of preferred shares or ADSs by a non-Brazilian holder, with the exception of gift and inheritance taxes levied by some states in Brazil on gifts made or inheritances bestowed by individuals or entities not resident or domiciled in Brazil or in the relevant state to individuals or entities that are resident or domiciled within such state in Brazil. There are no Brazilian stamps, issue, registration, or similar taxes or duties payable by holders of preferred shares or ADSs.

     IOF may be imposed on a variety of transactions, including the conversion of Brazilian currency into any foreign currency (e.g., for purposes of paying dividends and interest). The IOF tax rate on such transactions is generally 0.38% but can be reduced to 0% in certain situations, such as: (i) equity investments (including return on investment and distribution of dividends and interest on shareholders’ equity) on stock exchanges, public offerings and share subscription as regulated by the National Monetary Council, except for derivatives operations and those resulting in pre-fixed income; (ii) return of funds used in financial and capital markets and (iii) payment of dividends and interest on shareholders’ equity. From March 17, 2008, to October 22, 2008, the IOF rate was 1.5% in exchange operations for entry of funds in Brazil carried out by foreign investors to be invested in financial and capital markets, except for the cases mentioned above, and as of October 23, 2008 the IOF rate was reduced to 0%. The Minister of Finance, however, has the legal authority to increase the rate to a maximum of 25.0% . Any increase would be only applicable after that.

     IOF taxes may also be levied on transactions involving bonds or securities, even if the transactions are carried out on Brazilian stock, futures or commodities exchanges. The rate of the IOF tax with respect to preferred shares and ADSs is currently 0%. The Minister of Finance, however, has the legal authority to increase the rate to a maximum of 1.5% of the amount of the taxed transaction per each day of the investor’s holding period, but only to the extent of gain realized on the transaction and only on a prospective basis.

     In addition to the IOF tax, a temporary tax, the CPMF tax, was imposed on our distributions in respect to our ADSs at the time the distributions were converted into U.S. dollars and remitted abroad by the custodian. The CPMF was imposed at a rate of 0.38% and was levied until December 31, 2007. As of January 1, 2008 the CPMF is no longer charged. There is a bill pending in the House of Representatives proposing a new tax Contribuição Social para a Saúde (“CSS”). The CSS is similar to CPMF, with a proposed rate of 0.1% . If it passes in the House, the bill will needs approval from the Brazilian Senate and the President’s signature in order to become effective. For more information, please see “Taxation – CPMF”.

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Registered Capital

     Amounts invested in securities by a non-Brazilian holder who (i) qualifies for benefits under Resolution 2,689 and who registers with the CVM, or (ii) holds ADSs and is represented by the depositary bank’s registration, are eligible for registration with the Central Bank. In the case of ADSs, since the shareholder of record is the depositary bank, the depositary bank is responsible for obtaining the registration. The registration allows the remittance outside Brazil of foreign currency, converted at the Exchange Market rate, acquired with the proceeds of distributions on or dispositions of preferred shares.

U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations

     The statements regarding U.S. tax law set forth below are based on U.S. law as in force on the date of this annual report, and changes to such law subsequent to the date of this annual report may affect the tax consequences described herein. This summary describes the principal tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of preferred shares or ADSs, but it does not purport to be a comprehensive description of all of the tax consequences that may be relevant to a decision to hold or dispose of preferred shares or ADSs. This summary applies only to purchasers of preferred shares or ADSs who will hold the preferred shares or ADSs as capital assets and does not apply to special classes of holders such as dealers in securities or currencies, holders whose functional currency is not the U.S. dollar, holders of 10.0% or more of our shares (taking into account shares held directly or through depositary arrangements), tax-exempt organizations, financial institutions, holders liable for the alternative minimum tax, securities traders who elect to account for their investment in preferred shares or ADSs on a mark-to-market basis, and persons holding preferred shares or ADSs in a hedging transaction or as part of a straddle or conversion transaction. Accordingly, each holder should consult such holder’s own tax advisor concerning the overall tax consequences to it, including the consequences under laws other than U.S. federal income tax laws, of an investment in preferred shares or ADSs.

     In this discussion, references to a “U.S. holder” are to a holder of a preferred share or an ADS: (i) that is a citizen or resident of the United States of America, (ii) that is a corporation organized under the laws of the United States of America or any state thereof, or (iii) that is otherwise subject to U.S. federal income taxation on a net basis with respect to the preferred shares or ADSs. :

     The preferred shares will be treated as equity for U.S. federal income tax purposes. For purposes of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, which we call the “Code,” holders of ADSs generally will be treated as owners of the preferred shares represented by such ADSs.

Taxation of Distributions

     A U.S. holder will recognize dividend income for U.S. federal income tax purposes in an amount equal to the amount of any cash and the value of any property distributed by us as a dividend to the extent that such distribution is paid out of our current or accumulated earnings and profits, as determined for U.S. federal income tax purposes, when such distribution is received by the custodian (or by the U.S. holder in the case of a holder of preferred shares). The amount of any distribution will include the amount of Brazilian tax withheld on the amount distributed, and the amount of a distribution paid in reais will be measured by reference to the exchange rate for converting reais into U.S. dollars in effect on the date the distribution is received by the custodian (or by a U.S. holder in the case of a holder of preferred shares). If the custodian (or U.S. holder in the case of a holder of preferred shares) does not convert such reais into U.S. dollars on the date it receives them, it is possible that the U.S. holder will recognize foreign currency loss or gain, which would be ordinary loss or gain, when the reais are converted into U.S. dollars. Dividends paid by us will not be eligible for the dividends received deduction allowed to corporations under the Code.

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     Subject to certain exceptions for short-term and hedged positions, the U.S. dollar amount of dividends received by an individual prior to January 1, 2009 with respect to the ADSs will be subject to taxation at a maximum rate of 15.0% if the dividends are “qualified dividends.” Dividends paid on the ADSs will be treated as qualified dividends if: (i) the ADSs are readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States and (ii) we were not, in the year prior to the year in which the dividend was paid, and are not, in the year in which the dividend is paid, a passive foreign investment company (“PFIC”). The ADSs are listed on the New York Stock Exchange, and will qualify as readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States so long as they are so listed. Based on existing guidance, it is not clear whether dividends received with respect to the preferred shares will be treated as qualified dividends, because the preferred shares themselves are not listed on a U.S. exchange. In addition, the U.S. Treasury has announced its intention to promulgate rules pursuant to which holders of ADSs or preferred shares and intermediaries through whom such securities are held will be permitted to rely on certifications from issuers to treat dividends as qualified for tax reporting purposes. Because such procedures have not yet been issued, it is not clear whether we will be able to comply with them. Holders of ADSs and preferred shares should consult their own tax advisers regarding the availability of the reduced dividend tax rate in light of the considerations discussed above and their own particular circumstances.

     Based on our audited financial statements and relevant market and shareholder data, we believe that we were not treated as a PFIC for U.S. federal income tax purposes with respect to our 2005 or 2006 taxable years. In addition, based on our audited financial statements and our current expectations regarding the value and nature of our assets, the sources and nature of our income, and relevant market and shareholder data, we do not anticipate becoming a PFIC for the 2007 taxable year. Our belief that we are not, and will not in the future be, a PFIC is based on certain Proposed Treasury Regulations dealing with non-U.S. banks. Such regulations are not final and are subject to modification, in which case our determination regarding PFIC status may be different.

     Distributions out of earnings and profits with respect to the preferred shares or ADSs generally will be treated as dividend income from sources outside of the United States and generally will be treated separately along with other items of “passive” (or, in the case of certain U.S. holders, “financial services”) income for purposes of determining the credit for foreign income taxes allowed under the Code. Subject to certain limitations, Brazilian income tax withheld in connection with any distribution with respect to the preferred shares or ADSs may be claimed as a credit against the U.S. federal income tax liability of a U.S. holder if such U.S. holder elects for that year to credit all foreign income taxes. Alternatively such Brazilian withholding tax may be taken as a deduction against taxable income. Foreign tax credits will not be allowed for withholding taxes imposed in respect of certain short-term or hedged positions in securities and may not be allowed in respect of arrangements in which a U.S. holder’s expected economic profit is not substantial. U.S. holders should consult their own tax advisors concerning the implications of these rules in light of their particular circumstances.

     Distributions of additional shares to holders with respect to their preferred shares or ADSs that are made as part of a pro rata distribution to all our shareholders generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax.

     Holders of preferred shares or ADSs that are foreign corporations or nonresident alien individuals, which we call “non-U.S. holders,” generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax or withholding tax on distributions with respect to preferred shares or ADSs that are treated as dividend income for U.S. federal income tax purposes unless such dividends are effectively connected with the conduct by the holder of a trade or business in the United States.

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Taxation of Capital Gains

     Upon the sale or other disposition of a preferred share or an ADS, a U.S. holder generally will recognize gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes. The amount of the gain or loss will be equal to the difference between the amount realized in consideration for the disposition of the preferred share or the ADS and the U.S. holder’s tax basis in the preferred share or ADS. Such gain or loss generally will be subject to U.S. federal income tax as capital gain or loss and will be long-term capital gain or loss if held for more than one year. Capital losses may be deducted from taxable income, subject to certain limitations. Gain realized by a U.S. holder on a sale or disposition of preferred shares or ADSs generally will be treated as U.S. source income. Consequently, if Brazilian tax is imposed on such gain, the U.S. holder will not be able to use the corresponding foreign tax credit, unless the holder has other foreign source income of the appropriate type in respect of which the credit may be used.

     A non-U.S. holder will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax or withholding tax on gain realized on the sale or other disposition of a preferred share or an ADS unless (i) such gain is effectively connected with the conduct by the holder of a trade or business in the United States, or (ii) such holder is an individual who is present in the United States of America for 183 days or more in the taxable year of the sale and certain other conditions are met.

Backup Withholding and Information Reporting

     Dividends paid on, and proceeds from the sale or other disposition of, the ADSs or preferred shares to a U.S. holder generally may be subject to the information reporting requirements of the Code and may be subject to backup withholding unless the U.S. holder (i) is a corporation or other exempt recipient or (ii) provides an accurate taxpayer identification number and certifies that no loss of exemption from backup withholding has occurred. The amount of any backup withholding collected from a payment to a U.S. holder will be allowed as a credit against the U.S. holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability and may entitle the U.S. holder to a refund, provided that certain required information is furnished to the U.S. Internal Revenue Service.

     A non-U.S. holder generally will be exempt from these information reporting requirements and backup withholding tax, but may be required to comply with certain certification and identification procedures in order to establish its eligibility for such exemption.

Documents on Display

     We file reports, including annual reports on Form 20-F, and other information with the SEC pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC that apply to foreign private issuers. You may read and copy any materials filed with the SEC at its Public Reference Room at 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549. You may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. Since November 4, 2002, we are required to make filings with the SEC by electronic means. Any filings we make electronically will be available to the public over the Internet at the SEC’s web site.

Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk.

Risk and Risk Management

     In the course of our normal operations we are exposed to a number of risks, which are inherent to banking and insurance activities. The extent to which we properly and effectively identify and manage these risks is critical to our profitability. The most significant of these risks are:

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     Management of these risks is a process, which involves different levels of our Organization and encompasses a range of policies and strategies. Our risk management policies are generally conservative ones, which seek to limit absolute loss to the extent possible without loss of efficiency. For a discussion of our risk management policies see “Item 4. Information on the Company— History and Development of the Company —Risk Management” and “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Asset and Liability Management.” For a summary of Brazilian regulations on managing market risk in the banking sector, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—Regulation and Supervision.”

Market Risk

     Market risk is the risk that changes in factors such as interest rates or currency exchange rates will have an adverse impact on the value of our assets, liabilities or off-balance sheet positions. We are exposed to market risk in both our trading and non-trading activities. The primary market risks we face are interest rate risk and foreign exchange risk.

     We employ the sensitivity analysis methodology set forth below for evaluating our market risk. Our sensitivity analyses evaluate the potential loss in future earnings resulting from hypothetical changes in interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates.

Interest Rate Risk

     Interest rate risk arises as a result of timing differences on the re-pricing of assets and liabilities, unexpected changes in the slope and shape of yield curves and changes in correlation of interest rates between different financial instruments. We are exposed to the risk of interest rate movements when there is a mismatch between fixed interest rates and market interest rates. For a discussion of our management of interest rate sensitivity, see “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects–Interest Rate Sensitivity.”

Exchange Risk

     Exchange risk arises as a result of our having assets, liabilities and off-balance sheet items that are denominated in or indexed to currencies other than reais, either as a result of trading or in the normal course of banking activities. We control exposure to exchange rate movements by ensuring that mismatches are managed and monitored, and our policy is to avoid material exchange rate mismatches. Virtually all of our transactions (by value) that are denominated in or indexed to foreign currencies are denominated in or indexed to the U.S. dollar. Our assets and liabilities denominated in other currencies, including the euro and yen, are generally indexed to the U.S. dollar through currency swaps, effectively limiting our foreign currency exposure to U.S. dollars. For a discussion of our management of exchange rate sensitivity, see “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Exchange Rate Sensitivity.”

Market Risk of Trading Activities

     We enter into derivatives transactions to manage our exposure to interest rate and exchange rate risk. As a result, our exposure to the potential losses described below is generally reduced by these transactions. These derivatives do not qualify as hedges under U.S. GAAP. Accordingly, we classify derivatives as trading securities.

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Sensitivity Analysis

     We utilized the following criteria and methodology in making our sensitivity analysis:

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     The following table shows the maturities of our fixed-rate transactions denominated in or indexed to the real as of December 31, 2008:

    From 0 to 
30 days 
  From 31 to 
 90 days 
  From 91 to 
180 days 
  From 181 
to 365 days 
  From 1 to 
 3 years 
  More than 
 3 years 
  Total 
               
Interest–earning assets    (R$ in millions)
Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell    –    –      R$182    R$79      R$261 
Brazilian Central Bank compulsory                             
Deposits    R$2,713    –    –    –    982    R$811    4,506 
Trading securities, at fair value    3,408      R$27    2,950    548    36    6,969 
Available-for-sale securities          71        1,894    1,972 
Loans, net    19,670    R$19,213    12,725    16,376    32,328    6,565    106,877 
               
Total    25,798    19,213    12,752    19,579    33,937    9,306    120,585 
               
 
Interest–bearing liabilities                             
Time deposits    227    192    131    72    499      1,127 
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase    44,008    1,417    580    2,414    21,904    4,353    74,676 
               
 
Total liabilities    44,235    1,609    711    2,486    22,403    4,359    75,803 
               
 
Assets/Liabilities gap    (18,437)   17,604    12,041    17,093    11,534    4,947    R$44,782 
Cumulative assets/liabilities gap    R$(18,437)   R$(833)   R$11,208    R$28,301    R$39,835    R$44,782     

     The following table shows the maturities of our transactions denominated in or indexed to U.S. dollars, as of December 31, 2008:

    From 0 to 
30 days 
  From 31 to 
90 days 
  From 91 to 
180 days 
  From 181 to 
365 days 
  From 1 to 
 3 years 
  More than 3 
years 
  Total 
               
Interest–earning assets    (R$ in millions)
Interest–earning deposits in other banks    R$4,819    R$935    R$78    –    –    –    R$5,832 
Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell      –    –        R$711    711 
Brazilian Central Bank compulsory Deposits    45              45 
Trading securities    218    668    83    R$1,030    R$27    89    2,115 
Available–for–sale securities      21    95      77    3,344    3,542 
Held to maturity securities    63            1,073    1,136 
Loans    3,079    4,082    5,064    5,227    3,922    4,484    25,858 
 
Total assets    8,224    5,706    5,320    6,262    4,026    9,701    39,239 
               
 
Interest–bearing liabilities                             
Time deposits    4,343    1,409    685    217    121    87    6,862 
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase      43            54 
Short–term borrowings    1,417    3,539    3,098    4,714    1,068    13    13,849 
Long–term debt    1,117    87    88    320    2,675    4,920    9,207 
               
 
Total    6,879    5,078    3,871    5,251    3,864    5,029    29,972 
               
 
Assets/liabilities gap    1,345    628    1,449    1,011    162    4,672    R$9,267 
Cumulative assets/liabilities gap    R$1,345    R$1,973    R$3,422    R$4,433    R$4,595    R$9,267     

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Interest Rate Sensitivity

     The rate risks to which we are subject can be divided into two categories:

  (a) 
real-denominated assets and liabilities on which interest accrues at fixed rates; and
 
  (b) 
assets and liabilities denominated or indexed to foreign currencies on which the interest rate risk can be expressed as what is called the “cupom cambial,” i.e., the “foreign exchange coupon,” which is the difference between floating interest rate and exchange variation.

     Because the interest rate on the vast majority of our real-denominated floating-rate assets and liabilities is CDI/Selic, which is equal to the discount rate used to calculate the present value of future rate fluctuations, the net result is that such rate fluctuations will not result in any changes to the fair value of such assets and liabilities as at the balance sheet date.

Real-Denominated Fixed-Rate Transactions

     On December 31, 2008 we had an excess of R$17.7 billion in fixed-rate real-denominated assets over our fixed-rate real-denominated liabilities, including derivative financial instruments. The potential loss in the value on our fixed-rate financial assets and liabilities would not exceed R$429 million, as a result of a hypothetical unfavorable fluctuations estimated by our Economic Research Department of up to 1.82% of the annualized interest rate, irrespective of term to maturity or the period of time during which such unfavorable change would persist. However, the effects of the natural hedge from our liability transactions with deposit-taking and over demand, time and savings deposits would practically offset our losses or gains from our asset transactions with loans if a hypothetical increase or decrease in the market interest rates would occur.

Foreign Currency—Denominated and Indexed Transactions

     A hypothetical unfavorable fluctuation of up to 3.20% in the annualized interest rate on our foreign currency-denominated or -indexed assets and liabilities, including derivatives, would result in potential losses of up to R$163 million in the value of our U.S. dollar-denominated or -indexed financial assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2008, irrespective of how long the unfavorable change persisted.

     On December 31, 2008, we had an excess of R$2 billion in obligations denominated in or indexed to foreign currencies over the assets denominated in or indexed to foreign currency. Although we have more liabilities than assets, a foreign exchange coupon increase would result in losses, as most of our liabilities have short-term maturities and most of our assets have a longer average maturity term. This would lead us to a higher sensibility to an increase in foreign exchange coupon and, accordingly, higher losses.

Exchange Rate Sensitivity

     On December 31, 2008, we had an excess of R$4.51 billion in obligations denominated in or indexed to foreign currencies over the assets denominated in or indexed to foreign currency, including derivative financial instruments. A hypothetical devaluation of up to 6.97% of the real against the U.S. dollar would result in a potential loss of up to R$315 million in the fair value on our assets and liabilities denominated in, or indexed to, U.S. dollar. However, the tax effects resulting from this hypothetical devaluation would offset this potential loss. According to our economical research department, the estimated exchange rate of an unfavorable scenario would be R$/US$2.50.

Value at Risk (“VaR”)

     During the last four quarters ended December 2008, the Trading Portfolio recorded a maximum VaR of R$751 million and an average VaR ranging from R$59 million to R$551 million.

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     The following shows the value at risk, as measured under the VaR methodology in 2008:

    January, February and March     
     
    Average    Minimum    Maximum    At March 31 
         
    (R$ in millions)
Risk Factors                 
 Reais (fixed and floating rate)   32    18    48    20 
 Foreign exchange coupon         
 Foreign currency         
 Variable income         
 Sovereign risk    41    34    51    51 
 Total VaR    59    41    70    58 
 
 
 
    April, May and June     
     
    Average    Minimum    Maximum    At June 30 
         
    (R$ in millions)
Risk Factors                 
 Reais (fixed and floating rate)   71    19    105    49 
 Foreign exchange coupon         
 Foreign currency         
 Variable income        10   
 Sovereign risk    33    17    51    24 
 Total VaR    92    59    120    62 
 
 
 
    July, August and September     
     
    Average    Minimum    Maximum    At September 30 
         
    (R$ in millions)
Risk Factors                 
 Reais (fixed and floating rate)   84    52    222    178 
 Foreign exchange coupon         
 Foreign currency        20    13 
 Variable Income         
 Sovereign risk    29    16    78    72 
 Total VaR    98    62    245    205 
 
 
 
    October, November and December     
     
    Average    Minimum    Maximum    At December 31 
         
    (R$ in millions)
Risk Factors                 
 Reais (fixed and floating rate)   401    190    518    336 
 Foreign exchange coupon        15    14 
 Foreign currency    11      39    23 
 Variable Income        14   
 Sovereign risk    240    71    337    171 
 Total VaR    551    221    751    443 

     The following table below shows the concentration of the Trading Portfolio VaR and the number of events during the year ended December 31, 2008:

Value at Risk    First Quarter    Second Quarter    Third Quarter    Fourth Quarter    Events 
           
(R$ in millions)   % 
Up to R$60    57.38%    3.23%    0.00%    0.00%    14.56% 
From R$60 up to R$100    42.62    54.84    80.30    0.00    44.49 
From R$100 up to R$160    0.00    41.93    9.09    0.00    12.60 
From R$160 up to R$240    0.00    0.00    7.58    4.62    3.15 
More than R$240    0.00%    0.00%    3.03%    95.38%    25.20% 

Item 12. Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities.

     Not applicable.

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PART II

Item 13. Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies.

     Not applicable.

Item 14. Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds.

     Not applicable.

Item 15. Controls and Procedures.

     Financial Responsibility, Disclosure Controls and Procedures, and Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

     (a) Disclosure Controls and Procedures

     During the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008, evaluations of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) were carried out under the supervision of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. There are inherent limitations to the effectiveness of any system of disclosure controls and procedures, and it may not prevent or identify deficiencies. Accordingly, even effective disclosure controls and procedures can only provide reasonable assurance of achieving their control objectives.

     Based upon the evaluation referred to above, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded, subject to the limitations noted above, that for the period covered by this annual report, our disclosure controls and procedures were adequate and effective to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and disclosed, within the time periods specified in the applicable rules and forms, and that it is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

     (b) Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

     Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934. Our internal control was designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

     All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may decline.

     Our management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2007 and 2008. In making this assessment, it used the criteria established by the Internal ControlIntegrated Framework of COSO. Based on its evaluation and those criteria, our management has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2007 and 2008.

     The effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008 has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers Auditores Independentes, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report beginning on page F-2 of the financial statements to this Form 20-F.

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     (c) Attestation Report of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

     For the report of PricewaterhouseCoopers Auditores Independentes, our independent registered public accounting firm, dated June 29, 2009, on the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008, see “Item 18. Financial Statements.”

     (d) Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

     There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) that occurred during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

Item 16. [Reserved]

Item 16A. Audit Committee Financial Expert.

     Our board of directors has reviewed the qualifications and backgrounds of the members of the audit committee and determined that Hélio Machado dos Reis is an “audit committee financial expert” within the meaning of Item 16A and that he is independent. For more information regarding our audit committee, see “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—Board Practices—Board Committees—Audit Committee.”

Item 16B. Code of Ethics

     We have adopted a set of Codes of Ethics, as such term is defined in Item 16B of Form 20-F under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Our Codes of Ethics apply to our chief executive officer, chief financial officer, chief accounting officer and persons performing similar functions, to our advisors, other officers, employees, business partners, suppliers and service providers. Our Codes of Ethics Conduct are available on our website at bradesco.com.br/ri/. If we amend the provisions of our Codes of Ethics Conduct, or if we grant any waiver of such provisions, we will disclose such amendment or waiver on our website at the same address.

Item 16C. Principal Accountant Fees and Services.

Audit and Non-Audit Fees

     The following table sets forth the fees billed to us by our independent accounting firm during the fiscal years ended in 2007 and 2008:

    Year ended on December 31, 
   
    2007    2008 
     
    (R$ thousand)
Audit fees    R$22,028    R$22,438 
Audit-related fees    881    4,852 
Tax fees    638    172 
Other fees    201    269 
     
 
   Total fees    R$23,748    R$27,731 
     

     Our independent accounting firm audits our annual financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP and the generally accepted accounting principles in Brazil, as well as statutory and regulatory reports submitted to the Banco Central, CVM, SEC and SUSEP, including the review of our quarterly interim financial statements.

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     Audit-related fees in the above table are the aggregate fees billed by the independent auditors for domestic and international control and attestation reports, agreed-upon procedures reports, reviews of internal controls and procedures requested by our management and the issuance of comfort letters upon our sale of securities outside of Brazil.

     Tax fees in the above table are fees billed by the independent auditors for tax compliance, consultation and planning services.

     Other fees in the above table are fees billed by the independent auditors primarily related to reviews of controls, which cover the technological environment and others.

Audit Committee Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures

     Neither our board of directors nor our audit committee has established pre-approval policies and procedures for the engagement of our independent auditors for services. Our board of directors expressly approves on a case-by-case basis any engagement of our independent auditors for audit and non-audit services provided to our subsidiaries or to us. Our audit committee provides recommendations to our board of directors regarding such engagements. For more information regarding our board of directors and audit committee, see “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—Board Practices.”

Item 16D. Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees.

     Under the listed company audit committee rules of the NYSE and the SEC, effective July 31, 2006, we must comply with Exchange Act Rule 10A-3, which requires that we either establish an audit committee composed of members of the board of directors that meets specified requirements or designate and empower a board of auditors or similar body to perform the role of the audit committee in reliance on the exemption set forth in Exchange Act Rule 10A-3(c)(3).

     We have established a body similar to the audit committee of a U.S. company, which under Central Bank regulations is required to be called an “audit committee”. Our audit committee performs nearly all of the functions of an audit committee of the board of directors of a U.S. company. Of the four members of our audit committee, only one member is also a member of our Board of Directors. Under Brazilian law, the function of hiring independent auditors is a power reserved for the board of directors. As a result, our board of directors acts as our audit committee, as specified in Section 3(a)(58) of the Exchange Act, for purposes of approving, on a case-by-case basis, any engagement of our independent auditors for audit and non-audit services provided to our subsidiaries or to us. Except in these respects, our audit committee is comparable to and performs the functions of an audit committee of the board of directors of a U.S. company. Since our audit committee is not a committee of our Board of Directors, but is a separate body required under Brazilian law to perform the role of an audit committee, we believe that our audit committee satisfies the requirements of Exchange Act Rule 10(a)(3). However, we have relied on the exemption set forth in Exchange Act Rule 10A-3(c)(3) because under Central Bank regulations, our Audit Committee is a separate organ from our Board of Directors. We believe that our audit committee is able to act independently in performing the responsibilities of an audit committee under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and to satisfy the other requirements of Exchange Act Rule 10A-3.

Item 16E. Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers.

     Not applicable.

Item 17. Financial Statements.

     Not applicable.

219


Item 18. Financial Statements.

     See pages F-1 through F-66.

Item 19. Exhibits.

     Documents filed as exhibits to this annual report:

1.1 
 
2.1 
Amended and Restated Deposit Agreement, between Banco Bradesco S.A., Citibank N.A., as Depositary, and holders and beneficial owners of American Depositary Receipts*
 
6.1 
 
7.1 
 
8.1 
 
12.1 
 
12.2 
 
13.1 
 
13.2  Certification of the Chief Financial Officer of Bradesco, pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

__________________
(*) 
Incorporated by reference to our Registration Statement on Form 20-F (file no. 333-13950), originally filed with the SEC on September 28, 2001.

220


SIGNATURES

     Pursuant to the requirements of Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant certifies that it meets all the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and has duly caused this annual report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

Banco Bradesco S.A.

  /s/ Luiz Carlos Trabuco Cappi 
   
  Luiz Carlos Trabuco Cappi 
  Chief Executive Officer 

Date: June 30, 2009


Banco Bradesco S.A.
Consolidated Financial Statements as of
December 31, 2007 and 2008 and for each of the
three years in the period ended December 31,

2008 and Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm


Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders
Banco Bradesco S.A.

In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the related consolidated statements of income, of changes in shareholders' equity and of cash flows present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Banco Bradesco S.A. and its subsidiaries at December 31, 2008 and 2007, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2008 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company's management is responsible for these financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting appearing under Item 15. Our responsibility is to express opinions on these financial statements and on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our integrated audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

As presented in notes 2(t) and 27 to the consolidated financial statements, on December 31, 2006 the Company changed the manner in which it accounts for defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans by adopting Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement (“SFAS”) No. 158, “Employers Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans”. In addition as discussed in notes 2(ee) and 21 to the consolidated financial statements, effective January 1, 2008 the Company adopted the SFAS No. 157 “Fair Value Measurement”.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

São Paulo, June 29, 2009

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers
Auditores Independentes

F - 2


Banco Bradesco S.A. 
 
Consolidated Balance Sheet 
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated 
 

    December 31, 
   
   Assets    2007    2008 
     
       Cash and due from banks    5,485    9,416 
       Interest-earning deposits in other banks    7,887    14,435 
       Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell    40,601    46,950 
       Brazilian Central Bank compulsory deposits    31,813    26,384 
       Trading securities, at fair value    59,146    91,849 
       Available for sale securities, at fair value    29,653    29,955 
       Held to maturity securities    2,981    4,097 
           Loans    133,137    174,835 
           Allowance for loan losses    (7,769)   (10,318)
     
       Net loans    125,368    164,517 
       Equity investees and other investments    761    881 
       Premises and equipment, net    3,547    4,263 
       Goodwill    825    1,286 
       Intangible assets, net    2,975    3,138 
       Other assets    23,467    38,119 
     
 
   Total assets    334,509    435,290 
     
 
   Liabilities and shareholders´ equity         
       Deposits from customers         
           Demand, non-interest bearing    29,423    28,612 
           Savings    32,813    37,768 
           Time    35,733    97,423 
       Deposits from financial institutions    372    698 
     
                      Total deposits    98,341    164,501 
 
       Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase    69,015    74,730 
       Short-term borrowings    7,989    13,849 
       Long-term debt    38,915    47,255 
       Other liabilities    86,879    97,693 
     
 
   Total liabilities    301,139    398,028 
     
 
   Commitments and contingencies (Notes 2(p) and 23(b))        
 
   Minority interest in consolidated subsidiaries    281    332 
     
 
   Shareholders' equity         
Common shares - no par value (issued and authorized at December 31, 2007 – 1,515,248,595 and at December 31, 2008 – 1,534,934,979)   9,497    11,500 
Preferred shares - no par value (issued and authorized at December 31, 2007 – 1,516,131,675 and at December 31, 2008 – 1,534,934,821)   9,503    11,500 
Treasury shares (at December 31, 2007 – 1,243,050 common shares and 2,126,286 preferred shares and at December 31, 2008 – 129,021 common shares and 34,600 preferred shares)   (132)   (5)
Additional paid-in capital    205    212 
Statutory reserves    1,477    1,853 
       Accumulated other comprehensive income    1,888    85 
Unappropriated retained earnings    10,651    11,785 
     
 
   Total shareholders' equity    33,089    36,930 
     
 
   Total liabilities and shareholders' equity    334,509    435,290 
     

F - 3

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Consolidated Statement of Income
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

    Year ended December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
   Interest income             
     Interest on loans    20,977    22,608    33,662 
     Interest on federal funds sold and securities purchased‘under agreements to resell    2,177    3,429     6,466 
     Interest on securities             
           Trading    5,705    5,677     7,685 
           Available for sale    2,490    2,843     3,248 
           Held to maturity    324    279    509 
     Interest on deposits in other banks    541    429    706 
     Interest on Brazilian Central Bank compulsory deposits    1,998    1,207     1,489 
     Other    59    37    38 
       
 
Total interest income    34,271    36,509    53,803 
       
 
   Interest expense             
       Interest on deposits             
           From customers             
                 Savings deposits    (1,909)   (2,002)    (2,442)
                 Time deposits    (4,301)   (3,524)    (7,114)
         From financial institutions    (19)   (33)   (80)
       Interest on federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase    (3,762)   (5,540)    (9,169)
     Interest on short-term borrowings    (54)   727     (4,899)
     Interest on long-term debt    (2,824)   (2,366)    (4,728)
       
 
Total interest expense    (12,869)   (12,738)   (28,432)
       
 
Net interest income    21,402    23,771    25,371 
       
 
Provision for loan losses    (3,767)   (4,616)    (6,651)
       
 
Net interest income after provision for loan losses    17,635    19,155    18,720 
       

F – 4

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Consolidated Statement of Income
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

    Year ended December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
 
Non-interest income             
   Fee and commission income    6,379    7,819    8,997 
   Net trading gains (losses)   2,360    3,694    (371)
   Net realized gains on available for sale securities    1,157    1,456    609 
   Equity in earnings of unconsolidated companies    224    407    597 
   Insurance premiums    8,121    8,843    10,963 
   Pension plan income    791    555    710 
   Other non-interest income    821    1,107    1,990 
       
 
       Total non-interest income    19,853    23,881    23,495 
       
 
Non-interest expense             
   Salaries and benefits    (6,087)   (6,769)   (6,880)
   Administrative expenses    (5,223)   (6,236)   (7,288)
   Amortization of intangible assets    (430)   (620)   (802)
 
   Insurance claims    (6,124)   (6,012)   (7,391)
   Changes in provisions for insurance, pension plans, certificated savings plans and pension investment contracts    (4,199)   (4,981)   (4,225)
   Pension plan operating expenses    (560)   (478)   (482)
   Insurance and pension plan selling expenses    (852)   (1,157)   (1,014)
   Depreciation and amortization    (534)   (746)   (881)
   Other non-interest expense    (4,729)   (4,740)   (6,504)
       
 
     Total non-interest expense    (28,738)   (31,739)   (35,467)
       
 
Income before income taxes and minority interest    8,750    11,297    6,748 
Taxes on income             
   Current expense    (3,167)   (3,869)   (3,141)
   Deferred benefit (expense)   894    517    3,542 
       
 
     Total taxes on income    (2,273)   (3,352)   401 
       
 
Income before minority interest    6,477    7,945    7,149 
Minority interest    (15)   (37)   (131)
       
 Net income    6,462    7,908    7,018 
       
 
 Net income applicable to each class of shares(2)(3)            
     Common shares    3,075    3,764    3,342 
     Preferred shares    3,387    4,144    3,676 
       
 Net income    6,462    7,908    7,018 
 Earnings per shares (in reais)(1) (2) (3)            
     Common shares    2.09    2.50    2.18 
     Preferred shares    2.30    2.75    2.40 
 Weighted average number of shares outstanding(2) (3) (4)            
     Common shares    1,470,575,223    1,504,008,900    1,531,358,621 
     Preferred shares    1,472,508,873    1,505,136,649    1,531,430,349 

F – 5

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A. 
 
Consolidated Statement of Income 
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated 
(continued)
 

_________________________________________________
(1)
None of our outstanding obligations are exchangeable or convertible into equity securities and as a result, diluted earnings per share do not differ from net income per share (Note 2 (u)).
(2)
On March 12, 2007, our Board of Directors approved a split of our capital stock, in which our shareholders were entitled to one new share for each existing share of the same class. Therefore, all related share amounts have been retroactively adjusted for all periods presented to reflect the stock split, whereby one new share was received in exchange for each share held.
(3)
On March 24, 2008, our Board of Directors approved a split of our capital stock, in which our shareholders were entitled to one new share for each two existing shares of the same class. Therefore, all related share amounts have been retroactively adjusted for all periods presented to reflect the stock split, whereby one new share was received in exchange for each two shares held.
(4)
On March 10, 2009, the Special Shareholders’ Meeting approved the reverse split of common and preferred shares of our capital stock in the proportion of fifty (50) to one (1), with simultaneous split for each share, after they are grouped in the proportion of one (1) to fifty (50), respecting the respective type of shares. Therefore, all related share amounts have been retroactively adjusted for all periods presented to reflect the reverse stock split and the subsequent split.

F – 6

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A. 
 
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows 
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais 
 

    Year ended December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
Operating activities             
   Net income    6,462    7,908    7,018 
   Adjustment to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities:             
       Provision for loan losses    3,767    4,616    6,651 
       Provision for other investments    17     
       Provision for insurance, pension plans, certificated savings plans and pension investment contracts    4,199    4,981    4,225 
       Depreciation and amortization    534    746    881 
       Amortization of intangible assets    430    620    802 
       Equity in earnings of unconsolidated companies    (224)   (407)   (597)
       Loss on foreclosed assets, net    46    11    37 
       Net realized gains on available for sale securities    (1,157)   (1,456)   (609)
       (Gains) losses on sale of premises and equipment, net    15      (34)
       (Gains) on sale of unconsolidated companies    (32)   (1,225)   (168)
       Deferred tax benefit (expense)   (894)   (517)   (3,550)
         Dividends received from unconsolidated companies    236    301    563 
       Minority interest    15    37    131 
   Changes in assets and liabilities             
       Net increase in interest receivable    (611)   (1,573)   (2,940)
       Net increase (decrease) in interest payable    832    (262)   2,582 
       (Increase) decrease in trading assets    (35,076)   3,382    (33,803)
       Increase in other assets    (44)   (2,709)   (12,659)
       Net increase (decrease) in foreign exchange portfolio    (318)   179    103 
       Increase in other liabilities    7,363    8,488    5,634 
       
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities    (14,440)   23,134    (25,733)
       
Investing activities             
   Net (increase) decrease in Brazilian Central Bank compulsory deposits    (1,449)   (4,875)   10,338 
   Purchases of available for sale securities    (8,796)   (6,658)   (4,878)
   Proceeds from sale of available for sale securities    7,019    3,094    4,715 
   Purchases of held to maturity securities    (224)   (306)   (495)
   Proceeds from maturities of held to maturity securities    978    37   
   Net increase in loans    (17,561)   (35,363)   (46,315)
   Acquisition of subsidiaries, net of cash and cash equivalents paid .    (1,448)   (180)   149 
   Acquisition of intangible assets    (367)   (984)   (822)
   Purchases of unconsolidated companies    (190)     (160)
   Purchases of premises and equipment    (727)   (962)   (1,289)
   Proceeds from sale of premises and equipment    199    271    112 
   Proceeds from sale of foreclosed assets    140    185    546 
   Proceeds from sale of unconsolidated companies    64    1,357    242 
       
 
Net cash used in investing activities    (22,362)   (44,384)   (37,854)
       

F- 7

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A. 
 
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows 
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais (continued)
 

    Year ended December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
 
Financing activities             
   Net increase in deposits    6,639    14,588    64,678 
   Net increase in federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase    19,557    26,140    5,715 
   Net increase (decrease) in short-term borrowings    (1,431)   2,280    5,890 
   Borrowings under long-term debt    13,133    14,071    12,917 
   Repayment of long-term debt    (6,546)   (6,421)   (6,137)
   Minority interest    (10)   27    (80)
   Capital increase    1,218      1,207 
   Sale of shares by a subsidiary      175   
   Purchase of own shares    (23)   (82)   (5)
   Dividends and interest paid on shareholders' equity    (3,334)   (806)   (3,132)
       
 
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities    29,203    49,972    81,053 
       
 
   Cash and cash equivalents             
         At beginning of the year    18,973    11,374    40,096 
         At end of the year    11,374    40,096    57,562 
       
 
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents    (7,599)   28,722    17,466 
       
 
Supplemental cash flow disclosure             
   Cash paid for interest    12,037    12,999    25,850 
   Cash paid for taxes on income and social contribution    2,559    2,959    3,358 
   Loans transferred to foreclosed assets    180    192    600 
   Dividends and interest on shareholders' capital declared but not paid    74    2,092    1,536 
   Issuance of shares for BMC acquisition      790   

F- 8

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A. 
 
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity 
Expressed in shares 
 

            Common    Preferred 
    Common    Preferred    treasury stock   treasury stock 
    (1) (2) (3) (4)   (1) (2) (3) (4)   (1) (2) (3) (4)   (1) (2) (3) (4)
                 
   
Balance on December 31, 2005    1,468,571,712    1,469,545,314    (696,450)   - 
   
Shares subscribed and issued    32,727,456    32,727,090     
Purchase of own shares        (431,550)   (99,600)
Treasury shares cancelled      (90,000)     90,000 
   
Balance on December 31, 2006    1,501,299,168    1,502,182,404    (1,128,000)   (9,600)
   
Shares issued to merge BMC shares    13,949,427    13,949,271     
Purchase of own shares        (115,050)   (2,116,686)
   
Balance on December 31, 2007    1,515,248,595    1,516,131,675    (1,243,050)   (2,126,286)
   
Shares subscribed and issued    20,930,234    20,930,232     
Purchase of own shares        (129,821)   (35,400)
Treasury shares cancelled    (1,243,850)   (2,127,086)   1,243,850    2,127,086 
   
Balance on December 31, 2008    1,534,934,979    1,534,934,821    (129,021)   (34,600)
   

(1)
On March 12, 2007, our Board of Directors approved a split of our capital stock, in which our shareholders were entitled to one new share for each existing share of the same class. Therefore, all related share amounts have been retroactively adjusted for all periods presented to reflect the stock split, whereby one new share was received in exchange for each share held. 
(2)
On January 4, 2008, our Board of Directors approved the cancellation on 3,370,936 book-entry shares, with no par value, constituted of 1,243,850 treasury common shares and 2,127,086 treasury preferred shares, representing its capital stock. 
(3)
On March 24, 2008, our Board of Directors approved a split of our capital stock, in which our shareholders were entitled to one new share for each two existing shares of the same class. Therefore, all related share amounts have been retroactively adjusted for all periods presented to reflect the stock split, whereby one new share was received in exchange for each two shares held. 
(4)
On March 10, 2009, the Special Shareholders’ Meeting approved the reverse split of common and preferred shares of our capital stock in the proportion of fifty (50) to one (1), with simultaneous split for each share, after they are grouped in the proportion of one (1) to fifty (50), respecting the respective type of shares. Therefore, all related share amounts have been retroactively adjusted for all periods presented to reflect the reverse stock split and the subsequent split. 

F- 9

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, except for share information

    Common
Shares
 
  Preferred
shares
 
  Treasury 
shares 
  Additional 
paid-in 
‘capital 
  Statutory 
reserves 
  Accumulated
other
 
comprehensive 
income (1)
  Unappropriated 
retained 
earnings 
  Total 
                 
Balance on December 31, 2005    6,497    6,503    (30)   83    1,035    412    5,719    20,219 
                 
Net income                6,462    6,462 
Available for sale securities(2)             733      733 
Comprehensive income                  7,195 
Adjustment upon adoption of SFAS 158, net of tax of R$8              15      15 
Interest on shareholders' capital and                                 
dividends                (2,160)   (2,160)
Treasury shares cancelled                (3)  
Purchase of own shares        (23)           (23)
Capital increase(3)   598    602      18          1,218 
Transfers            252      (252)  
                 
Balance on December 31, 2006    7,095    7,105    (50)   101    1,287    1,160    9,766    26,464 
                 
Net income                7,908    7,908 
Available for sale securities(2)             685      685 
Adjustment upon defined benefit plans    -    -    -    -    -    43      43 
Comprehensive income                  8,636 
Interest on shareholders' capital and dividends                (2,823)   (2,823)
Purchase of own shares        (82)           (82)
Capital                                 
increase(5)   395    395      104          894 
Transfers(6)   2,007    2,003        190      (4,200)   - 
                 
Balance on December 31, 2007    9,497    9,503    (132)   205    1,477    1,888    10,651    33,089 
                 
Net income                7,018    7,018 
Available for sale securities(2)             (1,810)     (1,810)
Adjustment upon defined benefit plans    -    -    -    -    -       
Comprehensive income                  5,215 
Interest on shareholders' capital and dividends                (2,576)   (2,576)
Purchase of own shares        (5)           (5)
Capital                                 
increase(8)   600    600              1,207 
Transfers    1,403    1,397    132      376      (3,308)  
                 
Balance on December 31, 2008    11,500    11,500    (5)   212    1,853    85    11,785    36,930 
 

    Year ended December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
Per share information(4) (7) (8) (9)            
   Distributed earnings (interest on shareholders' capital and dividends):             
         Common    0.70    0.89    0.80 
         Preferred    0.77    0.98    0.88 

F- 10

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, except for share information

(1)
Consists of (i) unrealized gains of investment securities classified as available for sale, and (ii) gain on defined-benefit pension plans, all of them net of deferred income tax and social contribution effects amounting to R$867, R$1,444 and R$(42) at December 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008, respectively. 
(2)
Adjusted by other than temporary losses written off, as described in Note 5. 
(3)
A capital increase of R$1,200 (R$598 of common shares and R$ 602 of preferred shares) with no par value, was approved on a shareholders’ meeting in October 2006. 
(4)
On March 12, 2007, our Board of Directors approved a split of our capital stock, in which our shareholders were entitled to one new share for each existing share of the same class. Therefore, all related share amounts have been retroactively adjusted for all periods presented to reflect the stock split, whereby one new share was received in exchange for each share held. 
(5)
In August 2007, a capital increase of R$790, (R$395 of common shares and R$395 of preferred shares ) with no par value was approved in our Shareholders´ General Meeting for purposes of BMC acquisition (note 1(b)) and a capital transaction related to a sale of shares by a subsidiary in July, 2007. 
(6)
Increase in capital stock of R$ 4,010, with R$ 2,007 of common shares and R$ 2,003 of preferred shares, through the incorporation of statutory reserves. This increase was approved on shareholders meetings in March and August, 2007. 
(7)
On March 24, 2008, our Board of Directors approved a split of our capital stock, in which our shareholders were entitled to one new share for each two existing shares of the same class. Therefore, all related share amounts have been retroactively adjusted for all periods presented to reflect the stock split, whereby one new share was received in exchange for each two shares held. 
(8)
A capital increase of R$1,200 (R$600 of common shares and R$ 600 of preferred shares) with no par value, was approved on a shareholders’ meeting in January 4, 2008. 
(9)
On March 10, 2009, the Special Shareholders’ Meeting approved the reverse split of common and preferred shares of our capital stock in the proportion of fifty (50) to one (1), with simultaneous split for each share, after they are grouped in the proportion of one (1) to fifty (50), respecting the respective type of shares. Therefore, all related share amounts have been retroactively adjusted for all periods presented to reflect the reverse stock split and the subsequent split. 

F- 11

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

1. Basis of Presentation

(a) History

Banco Bradesco S.A. (also referred as "we," the "Company" or "Bradesco"), a publicly traded company organized under the laws of the Federative Republic of Brazil, has its headquarters in Osasco, State of São Paulo, Brazil. We are a multiple service bank under Brazilian banking regulations, operating principally in two segments. The Banking segment includes a wide variety of banking activities, servicing both retail and corporate customers and engaging in investment banking, international banking, consortia administration and asset management operations. The Insurance, Pension Plan and Certificated Savings plans segment relates to auto, health, life, casualty and property insurance, pension and certificated savings plans.

Our retail banking products include demand deposits, savings deposits, time deposits, mutual funds, foreign exchange services and a variety of financing operations including overdraft facilities, credit cards, installment loans and consortia administration. Corporate services include cash management and treasury services, foreign exchange operations, corporate finance and investment banking services, hedging programs and financing operations including working capital loans, leasing and installment loans. Such services are conducted primarily in Brazilian markets but also include, to a lesser extent, cross-border services.

We have over the years acquired a number of Brazilian financial and broker institutions in order to expand our business and customer base. The effects of acquisitions made in 2006, 2007 and through 2008, either individually or on a combined basis, were not significant to us.

We have prepared these financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("U.S. GAAP"), which differ in certain respects from accounting principles we apply in accordance with accounting practices adopted in Brazil (“Brazilian GAAP”) including the rules and regulations of the National Monetary Council (“CMN”), Banco Central do Brasil ("Central Bank"), Insurance Superintendency (“SUSEP”), Brazilian Securities Commission (“CVM”), National Private Insurance Council (“CNSP”) and the National Agency for Supplementary Healthcare (“ANS”).

Shareholders' equity and net income included in these financial statements differ from those included in the statutory accounting records prepared in accordance with Brazilian GAAP as a result of adjustments made to reflect the requirements of U.S. GAAP. Appropriated reserves under Corporate Law available for distribution, net of treasury shares, were R$8,354 and R$10,002 at December 31, 2007 and 2008, respectively.

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Banco Bradesco S.A. (parent company), its foreign branches and all direct or indirect majority-owned subsidiaries, based on the concepts of the Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB 51) – “Consolidated Financial Statements”. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. In addition, the consolidated financial statements include account balances of Variable Interest Entities (“VIEs”), of which we are the primary beneficiary, under FASB Interpretation 46R, “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities, an Interpretation of ARB No. 51”. See notes 2 (bb) and 14 (d).

The following table presents our voting interest in the most significant operational subsidiaries together with the main business activity of each. During the presented periods, several mergers and splits occurred in our subsidiaries, however, no gains or losses were recognized in the consolidated statement of income for the respective periods.

F- 12

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

    Interest of the capital- % 
   
    December 31, 
   
Subsidiaries    2007    2008 
     
Alvorada Cartões, Crédito, Financiamento e Investimento S.A. (Credit Finance         
Company)   100.00    100.00 
Banco Alvorada S.A. (Banking)   99.88    99.88 
Banco Finasa BMC S.A. (Banking) (1)   100.00    100.00 
Banco Bankpar S.A.    100.00    100.00 
Banco Boavista Interatlântico S.A. (Banking)   100.00    100.00 
Banco Bradesco Argentina S.A. (Banking)   99.99    99.99 
Banco Bradesco BBI S.A (2)   100.00    98.33 
Banco Finasa S.A. (Banking) (3)   100.00   
Banco Bradesco Cartões S.A    100.00    100.00 
Bradesco Administradora de Consórcios Ltda.    100.00    100.00 
Bradesco SegPrev Investimentos Ltda. (Holding)   99.99    99.99 
Bradesco Auto/RE Cia. de Seguros    100.00    100.00 
Bradesco Capitalização S.A. (Certificated Savings plans)   100.00    100.00 
Bradesco Leasing S.A. Arrendamento Mercantil (Leasing)   100.00    100.00 
Bradesco S.A. Corretora de Títulos e Valores Mobiliários (Brokerage)   100.00    100.00 
Bradesco Saúde S.A    100.00    100.00 
Bradesco Seguros S.A. (Insurance)   100.00    100.00 
Bradesco Vida e Previdência S.A. (Life Insurance and Pension Plans)   100.00    100.00 
Bradesplan Participações Ltda    100.00    100.00 
BRAM – Bradesco Asset Management S.A. DTVM    100.00    100.00 
Tempo Serviços Ltda.    100.00    100.00 
União de Participações Ltda.    100.00    100.00 
Ágora Corretora de Títulos e Valores Mobiliários (4)     100.00 
     

(1)
Previously named Banco BMC S.A.; 
(2)
Reduction in ownership interest due to the sale of shares related to the acquisition of Ágora Corretora upon the assignment of Banco Bradesco the in September 2008; 
(3)
Company merged into Banco BMC S.A. in April 2008; 
(4)
Company acquired in September 2008 by the Banco Bradesco BBI S.A. 

(b) Recent Acquisitions

On January 3, 2006, we acquired 89.35% of Banco do Estado do Ceará – BEC’s voting capital and 89.17% of BEC’s total capital for the amount of R$700, with R$458 paid in cash and R$242 paid in government securities, the market value of which was equivalent to R$134 as of the date of the transaction. BEC’s total capital was acquired afterwards at the São Paulo Stock Exchange - BOVESPA, for the amount of R$ 86. In November 2006, BEC was merged by Alvorada Cartões, Crédito, Financiamento e Investimento S.A..

On March 20, 2006, we signed an agreement with the controlling shareholders of American Express Company to acquire the total capital of its subsidiaries in Brazil (Banco American Express S.A., American Express Banco Múltiplo S.A., American Express do Brasil Tempo Ltda, and Inter American Express Arrendamento Mercantil S.A., (together referred as “Amex”). The transaction was concluded upon Central Bank approval on June 30, 2006 and upon payment of US$468, equivalent to R$1,001 paid in cash.

On May 15, 2006, we acquired the total capital of Bradesplan Participações S.A. (“Bradesplan”) for the amount of R$308 paid in cash.

On March 2006, we entered into an agreement with Lojas Colombo S.A. Comércio de Utilidades Domésticas, (“Lojas Colombo”) to acquire 50% of the total capital stock of Josema Administração e Participações S.A., parent company of Credifar S.A., Crédito, Financiamento e Investimento, (“Credifar”), a financial institution that has the exclusive rights to offer financial products and services to Lojas Colombo´s clients. We have consolidated Credifar in 2007, when the acquisition was approved by the Central Bank, and based on our primary beneficiary status. The acquisition was paid in cash in the amount of R$221.

F- 13

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

On January 23, 2007, we entered into an agreement with the shareholders of Banco BMC S.A. (“BMC”), to acquire 100% of its capital stock and its controlled subsidiaries BMC Asset Management Ltda. – Distribuidora de Títulos e Valores Mobiliários, BMC Previdência Privada S.A. and Credicerto Promotora de Vendas Ltda. In accordance with the terms of the agreement, we delivered 9,299,618 of our common shares and 9,299,514 of our preferred shares to BMC shareholders, as payment for the acquisition in the amount of R$790. In August 2007, the transaction was approved by the Central Bank.

On January 2008, we, through Bradesco Seguros, entered into an agreement with Marsh Corretora de Seguros Ltda. to acquire 100% of the capital stock of Mediservice—Administradora de Planos de Saúde Ltda., which we call “Mediservice,” for R$85, paid in cash. On February, 2008 the operation was authorized by ANS.

On March 2008, we celebrated an agreement with the shareholders of Ágora CTVM S.A (Ágora Corretora), to acquire its total capital stock, through our subsidiary Banco Bradesco BBI S.A, for the amount of R$ 908. We delivered to Ágora Corretora shareholders, a compensation for Ágora Corretora capital stock, shares representing 7.8% of the capital stock of BBI, converting Ágora Corretora into BBI’s wholly owned subsidiary. The operation was approved by the Central Bank on September 2008.

We present below the condensed balance sheets for the recent acquisitions:

    2006 
   
    BEC    Amex    Bradesplan    Total 
         
Cash and cash equivalents    503    50      553 
Securities    724    189    10    923 
Loans    261    155      416 
Goodwill      335      335 
Intangible assets – client portfolio    398    274      672 
Other assets    662    1,726    398    2,786 
Deposits    (982)   (166)     (1,148)
Loans      (31)     (31)
Other liabilities    (888)   (1,531)   (100)   (2,519)
         
 
Total consideration and fair value of net assets acquired    678    1,001    308    1,987 
         
 
 

    2007 
   
    BMC    Josema    Total 
       
Cash and cash equivalents    41      41 
Loans    1,238    113    1,351 
Securities    127    19    146 
Goodwill    234      234 
Intangible assets – client portfolio    281    167    448 
Other assets    464      473 
Deposits    (310)   (65)   (375)
Borrowings    (197)     (197) 
Other liabilities    (1,088)   (22)   (1,110)
       
Total consideration and fair value of net assets acquired    790    221    1,011 
 

F- 14

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

    2008 
   
    Ágora    Mediservice    Total 
       
Cash and cash equivalents    232      234 
Loans    87      87 
Securities    146      152 
Goodwill    430    81    511 
Intangible assets – client portfolio    143      143 
Other assets    472    40    512 
Deposits    (44)     (44)
Other liabilities    (558)   (44)   (602)
       
Total consideration and fair value of net assets acquired    908    85    993 
 

The total consideration given for acquisitions in 2006, 2007 and 2008 was R$1,987, R$ 1,011 and R$ 993 respectively, and is comprised as follows:

    2006    2007    2008 
       
Payment in currency    1,853    221    85 
Government securities, at fair value    134     
Issuance of shares, at fair value      790    908 
       
 
Total cost of acquisitions    1,987    1,011    993 
       

These acquisitions were accounted for under the purchase method of accounting and the companies acquired were thus consolidated as from the date of acquisition of the controlling interest.

In conjunction with these acquisitions, finite-lived intangible assets of R$672 in 2006, R$ 448 in 2007 and R$ 143 in 2008 were recorded and are related primarily to client’s deposit and relationship portfolios, being amortized over the period in which the assets are expected to contribute directly or indirectly to the future cash flows (between five and ten years).

In addition, we recorded a goodwill balance of R$ 335 in 2006 related to Amex transaction, R$ 234 in 2007 related to BMC transactions and R$ 511 in 2008 related to Ágora and Mediservice transactions. For further details: Notes 2 (o) and 11.

2. Significant Accounting Policies

The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. The consolidated financial statements include various estimates and assumptions, including, but not limited to: the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses, estimates of fair value of certain financial instruments, depreciation and amortization, asset impairments, useful lives of intangible assets, tax valuation allowances, assumptions used for calculation of insurance reserves, pension plans, contingencies and reserves for potential losses from tax uncertainties. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

a) Constant currency remeasurement

Until December 31, 1997, Brazil was considered to be a highly inflationary environment and accordingly all balances and transactions prior to that date were remeasured at December 31, 1997 price levels. The index selected for this remeasurement was the General Price Index - Internal Availability (IGP-DI), which we consider to be the most appropriate index due to its independent source, long history of publication and its mix of wholesale, consumer and construction prices.

F- 15

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

As from January 1, 1998, Brazil was no longer a highly inflationary environment, since the cumulative rate of inflation over preceding three-year period was below 100% without any indication of a return to the high rates prevailing prior to June 30, 1994. Accordingly, balances and transactions as from January 1, 1998 are expressed in nominal reais, as required by U.S. GAAP and the guidelines of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission – (“SEC”).

b) Cash and cash equivalents

For purposes of the statement of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents include cash and due from banks, interest-earning deposits in other banks and federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell, that have original maturities of three months or less and present insignificant risk of changes in value.

    December 31, 
   
    2007    2008 
     
Cash and due from banks    5,485    9,353 
Interest-earning deposits in other banks    2,942    6,220 
Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell    31,669    41,989 
     
Total    40,096    57,562 
     

c) Presentation of interest earning assets and interest bearing liabilities.

Interest earning assets and interest bearing liabilities are presented in the consolidated balance sheet at amortized cost using the effective yield interest method. Such presentation is required since accrued financial charges are added to the outstanding principal each period for substantially all Brazilian real-based assets and liabilities.

The total financial charges accrued on the outstanding principal of assets was R$8,273 and R$11,213 at December 31, 2007 and 2008, respectively. Total financial charges accrued on outstanding principal of liabilities was R$4,573 and R$7,155 at December 31, 2007 and 2008, respectively.

d) Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell and securities pledged under repurchase agreements

Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell are treated as collateralized financial transactions and are recorded at the amounts at which the federal funds and securities were acquired or sold plus accrued interest. This classification also includes securities pledged under repurchase agreements mainly comprising Brazilian federal government securities. These securities present insignificant risk of changes in interest rates and may be subject to repledge agreements by the relevant counterparties.

e) Trading securities, including derivatives

Instruments utilized in trading activities include securities stated at fair value in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) 115, "Accounting for Investments in Debt and Equity Securities." Fair value is generally based on quoted prices in active markets or quoted market prices for similar assets or liabilities. If these market prices are not available, fair values are estimated based on dealer quotes, pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies or similar techniques, for which the determination of fair value may require significant management judgment or estimation. Realized and unrealized gains and losses are recognized in net trading gain (losses).

Derivatives entered into for trading purposes with our customers or which do not qualify as hedges (primarily derivatives used to manage our overall exposure to changes in interest rates and foreign currencies) are carried at fair value with realized and unrealized gains (losses) recognized in net trading gain (losses). All our derivatives were accounted for under Trading Derivatives, as disclosed in Note 23 (b).

f) Derivatives other than trading and embedded derivatives

F- 16

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

Derivative instruments are recognized as assets or liabilities in the balance sheet and measured at fair value, regardless of the purpose or intention to hold them in accordance with SFAS 133, “Accounting for Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities”, as amended by SFAS 137, 138 and 149. Changes in the fair values of an instrument are recognized in income or equity, depending on its designation and qualification as a fair value, cash flow or foreign currency hedge. In order to qualify as a hedge, the derivative must be: (i) designated as hedge of a specific financial asset or liability at the inception of the contract, (ii) effective at reducing the risk associated with the exposure to be hedged, and (iii) highly correlated with respect to changes in its fair value or in the related cash flows in relation to the fair value of or cash flows related to the item to be hedged both at inception and over the life of the contract. The Company has not adopted hedge accounting.

Embedded derivatives are bifurcated when all of the following criteria are met: (i) the economic characteristics and risks of the embedded derivative instrument are not clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics and risks of the host contract, (ii) the contract that embodies both the embedded derivative instrument and the host contract is not remeasured at fair value with changes in fair value reported in earnings as they occur and (iii) a separate instrument with the same terms as the embedded derivative instrument would be a derivative instrument subject to the requirements of SFAS 133, as amended. These embedded derivative instruments are measured at fair value with gains and losses recognized in income at each reporting date.

In accordance with SFAS No. 155, “Accounting for Certain Hybrid Financial Instruments” (SFAS 155) hybrid financial instruments which contain an embedded derivative that would otherwise require bifurcation may be accounted for at fair value, with changes in fair value recognized in consolidated statement of income. The fair value would be applied on an instrument-by-instrument basis; however the election to apply fair value accounting is irrevocable. We haven’t recognized any eligible embedded derivative for SFAS 155.

g) Available for sale securities

Debt securities are classified based on management's intention at the date of purchase. Securities that are bought and held principally for the purpose of resale in the near term are classified as trading assets and are stated at fair value. Securities are classified as available for sale when, in management’s judgment, they may be sold in response to or in anticipation of changes in market conditions, being carried at fair value with net unrealized gains and losses included in shareholders' equity on an after-tax basis. Average cost is used to determine realized gains and (losses) on sales of available for sale securities.

Amortization of premiums or discounts is recorded as interest using the effective yield method through the maturity date of the security.

Marketable equity securities, which are included as available for sale, are carried at fair value with net unrealized gains and losses included in shareholders' equity on an after-tax basis, until realization at which time the net realized gains (losses) are included in non-interest income (expenses).

h) Held to maturity securities

Debt securities for which there is intention and ability to hold until maturity are classified as held to maturity securities and recorded at amortized cost, that is, purchase cost, plus accrued interest and premiums or discount using effective interest rate method through the maturity date of security.

Transfers of investments from trading and available for sale categories to the held to maturity category were accounted at fair value on the date of the transfer:

F- 17

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

i) Other than temporary impairment

In determining whether or not impairment of a security (classified either as available for sale or held-to-maturity) is other than temporary the Bank has applied the tree step model described on FASB Staff Position Nos. FAS 115-1 and FAS 124-1, The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and Its Application to Certain Investments. We use a combination of factors aimed at determining whether recovery of the value of a security is likely. These factors include, the length of the time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than cost to assist in determining the extent of the analysis to be performed over the securities; the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer of the security, including any specific events which may influence the operations of the issuer; any failure of the issuer of the security to make scheduled interest payments; changes to the rating of the security by rating agency; the historic and implied volatility of the security and the intent and ability of the Bank to retain its investment in the security for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in fair value. In addition, for marketable equity securities our assessment includes forecast analyses (i) of the period (a date) when the security will recover the cost basis and (ii) whether the Bank will own the security in that period (on that date). These analyses are performed based on an assessment of individual terms and attributes of each security. See Note 5 for the analyses performed under gross unrealized losses.

In addition to the disclosures already required by SFAS 115, we have followed the policies determined by Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) Issue 03-1, “The Meaning of Other than Temporary Impairment and Its Application to Certain Investments”, FASB Staff Position (“FSP”) SFAS 115-1 and SFAS 124-1.

j) Loans and leases

Loans and leases are stated at amortized cost using the effective yield interest method, including interest receivable, origination fees and costs (Note 2 (c)). Interest income is recorded on an accrual basis and is added to the principal amount of the loan in each period. The accrual of interest is generally discontinued on all loans that are not considered collectible as to principal or interest and for all loans 60 days or more overdue. Interest collections on such loans are recorded as reductions of the principal balance when collectibility is uncertain, otherwise income is recognized on a cash basis.

We provide vehicle and equipment financing to our customers through a variety of lease arrangements. Lease financing receivables are recorded at the aggregate of lease payments receivable plus the estimated residual value of the leased property, less unearned income.

Also, we have followed the policies prescribed by Statement of Position 03-3. “Accounting for Certain Loans or Debt Securities Acquired in a Transfer”, which addresses accounting for differences between contractual and expected cash flows from the purchaser’s initial investment in loans or debt securities acquired in a transfer, if those differences are attributable, at least in part, to credit quality.

k) Allowance for loan losses and non-performing loans

The allowance for loan losses represents management’s estimate of probable losses inherent in the loan portfolio at each balance sheet date. Our evaluation on the adequacy of the allowance is based on regular reviews on individual loans, in accordance with SFAS 114, “Accounting for Impairment of a Loan by a Creditor”, as amended by SFAS 118 and on the aggregate analysis of homogeneous loans.

The individual loan analysis considers a loan as impaired, when, in our opinion, all amounts due are no longer considered collectible, including accrued interest, in accordance with SFAS 114, “Accounting for Impairment of a Loan by a Creditor”, as amended by SFAS 118. We then measure impaired loans based on (i) present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate or (ii) the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. The allowance is established through the difference between the carrying value of the impaired loan and its value determined as described above.

F- 18

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

The aggregate loss analysis for groups of homogeneous loans is based on internal models, which consider a number of features including, but not limited to, the recent loss experience, current economic conditions, clients´ profiles and internal risk ratings. These models and inputs are frequently reviewed to take into consideration actual losses.

Loans are charged-off against the allowance when the loan is considered uncollectible collected or is considered permanently impaired.

l) Equity investees and other investments

Equity investees and other investments, where we own between 20% and 50% of voting capital, are accounted for using the equity method of accounting, according to the Accounting Principles Board (APB) Opinion 18, “The Equity Method of Accounting for Investments in Common Stock”. Under this method, our share of results of the investee, as reported under U.S. GAAP, is recognized in the statement of income as "Equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated companies" and dividends are credited when declared to the "Equity investees and other investments" balance sheet account (Note 9).

Interests in companies of less than 20% with no readily determinable market value are recorded at cost (unless we have the ability to exercise significant influence over the operations of the investee, in which case we use the equity method) and dividends are recognized in income when received.

None of our investments in unconsolidated companies, analyzed on an individual basis, are considered significant for additional disclosures in our consolidated financial statements. When analyzed on an aggregate basis for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007 and 2008, they meet the criteria of relevant subsidiaries and thus, aggregate summary financial information is disclosed in Note 9.

m) Premises and equipment, net

Premises and equipment are recorded at cost (plus price-level restatements through December 31, 1997). Depreciation is computed on the straight-line method at the following annual rates: premises – 4%; data processing equipment – 20% to 50%; and other assets – 10% to 20%.

Development and acquisition costs of software, included within premises and equipment, net relate to costs of internal use software capitalized, in accordance with Statement of Position 98-1 “Accounting for computer software developed or obtained for internal use.”

We recognize an impairment loss only if the carrying amounts of long-lived assets to be held and used are not recoverable from their expected undiscounted future cash flows, pursuant to SFAS 144 “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets”.

Fixed assets, mainly comprising certain bank branches, which were sold and subsequently leased by us for the purposes of continuing our operations, were recorded pursuant to SFAS 13 and SFAS 98, “Accounting for Leasing” and SFAS 28 “Accounting for Sales Subject to Rental Contracts.”

For transactions classified as operating leases, relating to property sold for cash, only the portion corresponding to: (i) the positive difference between revenue determined at the time of the sale and the present value of the future lease to be paid is recognized immediately in income for the period, whereas (ii) the remaining portion is deferred over the corresponding rental contract terms, and (iii) exclusively in cases of loss, the amounts are recognized immediately. In cases where the sale is financed, income will be determined only as from the final maturity of the corresponding financing (Note 10) and subsequently recorded in accordance with the criteria described above.

Gain or loss on cash sales not subject to lease contracts was recognized immediately in income for the year as “Other non-interest income”.

n) Foreclosed assets

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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

Assets are classified as foreclosed assets and are included in other assets upon actual foreclosure or when physical possession of the collateral is taken, through agreement on court action.

Foreclosed properties are carried at the lower of the recorded amount of the loan or lease for which the property previously served as collateral, or the fair value of the property less estimated costs to sell. Prior to foreclosure, any write-downs, if necessary, are charged to the allowance for loan losses.

Subsequent to foreclosure, gains or losses on the sale of and losses on the periodic revaluation of foreclosed properties are recorded in income. Net costs of maintaining and operating foreclosed properties are expensed as incurred.

o) Goodwill and other intangible assets

SFAS 141, “Business Combinations” requires accounting for business combinations determining whether an acquired intangible asset should be recognized separately from goodwill, as well as additional disclosures relating to the primary reason for a business combination and the allocation of the purchase price by major balance sheet captions.

SFAS 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets” requires that goodwill, including that acquired before initial application of the standard, is no longer amortized but is tested for impairment at least annually, using a two-step approach that involves the identification of “reporting units” and the estimation of fair value. The reporting unit is the banking segment that is analyzed by the management on a regular basis.

The impairment test is performed in two phases. The first step of the goodwill impairment test compares the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an additional step has to be performed. This additional step compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. An impairment loss is recorded to the extent that the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds its implied fair value.

Finite-lived intangible assets are generally amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated period benefited. The client portfolios intangible asset is recorded and amortized over a period in which the asset is expected to contribute directly or indirectly to the future cash flows (between five and ten years). We review our intangible assets for events or changes in circumstances that may indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable, in which case its impairment charge is recognized on income immediately, according to SFAS 144.

Also, we have followed the policies prescribed by SFAS 147, “Acquisitions of Certain Financial Institutions”, which requires that business combinations involving depositary financial institutions within its scope, except for combinations between mutual institutions, be accounted for under SFAS 141.

p) Litigation

According to SFAS 5 “Accounting for Contingencies” and Interpretation No 14 (“FIN 14”) “Reasonable Estimation of the Amount of a Loss,” we recognize accruals in determining loss contingencies when the conditions known before the issuance of the financial statements show that: (i) it is probable that losses had been incurred at the date of the financial statements; and (ii) the amount of such losses can be reasonably estimated. We accrue our best estimate of probable losses.

We constantly monitor litigation in progress to evaluate, among other things: (i) its nature and complexity; (ii) the evolution of the proceedings; (iii) the views of our legal advisors; and (iv) our experience with similar proceedings. We also consider in determining whether a loss is probable and in estimating its amount:

a) The probability of loss from claims or events that have occurred on or before the date of the financial statements, but which come to our attention only after the date of the financial statements, but before the financial statements are issued; and

b) The need to disclose claims or events occurring after the date of the financial statements but before they are issued.

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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

q) Income taxes

We account for income taxes in accordance with SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes” (SFAS 109) as interpreted by FIN 48, resulting in two components of income tax expense: current and deferred. Current income tax expense approximates taxes to be paid or refunded for the current period. Deferred income tax expense results from changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities between periods. These gross deferred tax assets and liabilities represent decreases or increases in taxes expected to be paid in the future because of future reversals of temporary differences in the bases of assets and liabilities as measured by tax laws and their bases as reported in the financial statements.

Deferred tax assets are also recognized for tax attributes such as net operating loss carryforwards and tax credit carryforwards. Valuation allowances are then recorded to reduce deferred tax assets to the amounts management concludes are more-likely-than-not to be realized. Under FIN 48, income tax benefits are recognized and measured based upon a two-step model: 1) a tax position must be more-likely than- not to be sustained based solely on its technical merits in order to be recognized, and 2) the benefit is measured as the largest amount of that position that is more-likely-than-not to be sustained upon settlement. The difference between the benefit recognized for a position in accordance with this FIN 48 model and the tax benefit claimed on a tax return is referred to as an unrecognized tax benefit (UTB). We accrue income-tax-related interest and penalties (if applicable) within income tax expense. We implemented FIN 48 on January 1, 2007 and it did not have any impact on our consolidated financial position.

r) Asset management and commission fees

We earn fee income from investment management, credit card, investment banking and certain commercial banking services. Such fees are recognized when the service is performed (investment and commercial banking) or over the life of the contract (investment management and credit card).

s) Foreign currency translation

For our foreign operations, the functional currency is the Brazilian real, in which case the assets and liabilities are remeasured, at current exchange rates from the local currency to the Brazilian real and the results of operations are remeasured at the average rate for the period. Losses and gains arising from the remeasurement process are included in current income.

t) Employee benefits

We are required to make employer contributions to INSS, a Brazilian Government Agency that manages social securities, retirement pension and other benefits. Such contributions, which are expensed as incurred, totaled R$716 in 2006, R$809 in 2007 and R$ 910 in 2008.

In addition, we make contributions to defined-benefit plans for our employees coming from acquired institutions. We account for these plans in accordance with SFAS 87 "Employers Accounting for Pensions".

We adopted the revised SFAS 132 (“SFAS 132R”) that maintains the disclosure requirements of the original statement and requires additional disclosures for pension plan assets, expected benefit obligations, cash flows for future contributions and benefit payments and other relevant information. See Note 27 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for these disclosures.

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS 158. “Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans - an amendment of the FASB Statements No 87, 88, 106, and 132(R)” (“SFAS 158”). SFAS 158 requires the funded status of pension and other postretirement plans to be recorded on the balance sheet as of December 31, 2006 with a corresponding offset, net of tax effects, recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within shareholder’s equity. The requirement to recognize the funded status of a benefit plan and the disclosure requirements are effective as of the end of the fiscal year ending after December 15, 2006. The effect of adopting SFAS 158 is not material and is presented in note 27.

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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

SFAS 158 also requires the measurement of the plan assets and benefit obligations as of the date of the employer’s fiscal year-end statement of financial position, effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2008. The antecipated adoption of this requirement for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007 did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial position or results of operations.

u) Earnings per share

Earnings per share are presented based on the two classes of shares issued. Both classes, common and preferred, participate in dividends on substantially the same basis, except that preferred shareholders are entitled to dividends per share 10% higher than common shareholders (Note 17). Earnings per share are computed based on the distributed dividends or interest on shareholders’ capital and undistributed earnings of Bradesco after giving effect to the 10% preference, as though all earnings will be distributed. Weighted average shares are computed based on the periods for which the shares are outstanding.

In addition, we considered the policies prescribed by EITF Issue 03-6,"Participating Securities and the Two-Class Method” under SFAS 128, “Earnings per Share."

v) Insurance and pension plans policyholders

Substantially all of our insurance contracts are considered short-duration insurance contracts. Premiums from short-duration insurance contracts are recognized over the related contract period. Premiums from long-duration contracts are recognized when due from the policyholders.

Reserves for insurance claims are established based on historical experience, claims in process of payment, estimated amount of claims incurred but not yet reported, and other factors relevant to the level of reserves required. Reserves are adjusted regularly based upon experience, with the effects of changes in such estimated reserves included in the results of operations in the period in which the estimated reserves were changed, and include estimated reserves for reported and unreported claims incurred.

Reserves for private pension plan are established based on actuarial calculations.

Certain products offered by us, such as pension investment contracts and funds where the investment risk is for the account of policyholders, are considered investment contracts in accordance with the requirements of SFAS 97, “Accounting and Reporting by Insurance Enterprises for Certain Long Duration Contracts and For Realized Gains and Losses from Sale of Investments,” (“SFAS 97”). During the accumulation phase of the pension investment contracts, when the investment risk is for the account of policyholders, the contracts are treated as an investment contract. During the annuity phase the contract is treated as an insurance contract with mortality risk. Funds related to pension investment contracts where the investment risk is for the account of policyholders are equal to the account value. Account values are not actuarially determined. Rather, account values are increased by the deposits received and interest credited (based on contract provisions) and are reduced by redemptions at the policyholders option.

In addition, we determine the need to record an additional liability for the contract feature when the present value of expected annuitization payment at the expected annuitization date exceeds the expected account balance at the annuitization date, in accordance with SOP 03-1 “Accounting and Reporting by Insurance Enterprises for Certain Non-traditional Long-Duration Contracts and for Separate Accounts” (“SOP 03-1”). The securities related to these pension investment contracts are classified as “trading securities” and “available for sale securities” in the consolidated financial statements.

In October 2005, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (“AICPA”) issued Statement of Position 05-1, “Accounting by Insurance Enterprises for Deferred Acquisition Costs in Connection with Modifications or Exchanges of Insurance Contracts” ("SOP 05-1"). SOP 05-1 provides accounting guidance for deferred policy acquisition costs on internal replacements of insurance and investment contracts other than those specifically described in Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 97, “Accounting and Reporting by Insurance Enterprises for Certain Long-Duration Contracts and for Realized Gains and Losses from the Sale of Investments”. SOP 05-1 defines an internal replacement as a modification in product benefits, features, rights or coverages that occurs by the exchange of a contract for a new contract, or by amendment, endorsement or rider to a contract, or by the election of a feature or coverage within a contract. The provisions of SOP 05-1 are effective for internal replacements occurring in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2006. The SOP 05-1 did not have a material impact on our financial condition and results of operations.

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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

w) Liability for unpaid claims and claim adjustment expenses

The liability for unpaid claims and claim adjustment expenses represents the amounts needed to provide for the estimated ultimate cost of settling claims relating to insured events that have occurred on or before the balance sheet date. The estimated liability includes the amount of money that will be required for future payments of (a) claims that have been reported to the insurer, (b) claims related to insured events that have occurred but that have not been reported to the insurer as of the date the liability is estimated, and (c) claim adjustment expenses. Claim adjustment expenses include costs incurred in the claim settlement process such as legal fees; outside adjuster fees; and costs to record, process, and adjust claims.

Premium deficiency reserves are established if necessary, when the liability for future policy benefits plus the present value of expected future gross premiums are determined to be insufficient to provide for expected future policy benefits and expenses and to recover any unamortized policy acquisition costs.

During the regular course of our insurance activities, we reinsure a portion of the underwritten risk with IRB Brasil Resseguros S.A., a government controlled entity. The reinsurance agreement permits a recovery of a portion of losses from the reinsurer, although it does not discharge our primary liability as direct insurer of the risks reinsured. Reinsurance receivables as of December 31, 2007 and 2008 amounted to R$55 and R$38, respectively, and are included in "Other assets".

x) Deferred acquisition costs

The costs that vary with and are related to the production of new insurance business are deferred to the extent that such costs are deemed recoverable from future profits. Such costs include mainly commissions, cost of policy insurance and variable support service costs and are amortized over the expected life of the contracts in proportion to the premium income. Deferred acquisition costs are subject to recoverability testing at the end of each accounting period and, if not recoverable, are charged to expense.

y) Compensated absences

The liability for future compensation for employee vacations is accrued and expensed as earned by the employees.

z) Interest on shareholders' capital

Brazilian corporations are permitted to attribute a tax-deductible interest charge on shareholders' equity. The notional interest charge is treated as though it was a dividend and is accordingly shown as a direct reduction of retained earnings in these financial statements. The related tax benefit is recorded in the income statement.

aa) Credit card fees

Credit card fees, periodically charged to cardholders, net of related issuance costs, are deferred and recognized on a straight-line basis over the period that the fee entitles the cardholder to use the card.

bb) Special Purpose Financing (SPF) entities

The Company utilizes certain financial arrangements to meet its funding and liquidity management through SPF entities. These SPF entities are generally funded with long-term debt (Note 14 (d)) and are paid down through the future cash flow of the underlying assets. The underlying assets are essentially current and future flows of (i) payment orders from individuals and corporations outside Brazil to individuals and corporations in Brazil on which we act as the paying bank and (ii) credit card bill receivables from purchases in Brazil from foreign cardholders.

F- 23

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

We consolidated these SPF entities based on the policies issued by FASB Interpretation No 46 ("FIN 46") "Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities", revised in December 2003 ("FIN 46R").

cc) Guarantees provision

FASB Interpretation No 45, “Guarantor’s Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others (FIN 45).” establishes accounting and disclosure requirements for guarantees, requiring that a guarantor recognize, at the inception of a guarantee, a liability in an amount equal to the fair value of the obligation undertaken in issuing the guarantee.

We recorded a liability in Other Liabilities, for the fair value of guarantees granted at the date on which we issue the guarantee. The fair value at inception of the obligation undertaken when issuing the guarantees is typically equal to the present value of the future amount of premium receivable under the contract. The fair value of the liability recorded at inception is amortized into income as Fee and Commission Income over the life of the guarantee contract. If we conclude that it is probable that we will incur a loss in relation to the guaranteed issued, we recognize in Other Liabilities a provision for the estimated amount of probable loss. Significant guarantees that have been provided by us are disclosed in Note 23 (e).

dd) Perpetual bonds

In July 2003, the FASB issued SFAS 150. “Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of both Liabilities and Equity,” which establishes standards for how an issuer measures certain financial instruments with characteristics of both liabilities and equity and classifies them in its statement of financial position. Under this standard the perpetual bond are treated as a liability as they have contractual mandatory payment on specified dates and have no conversion features for conversion into share capital.

ee) Fair value measurement

Effective January 1, 2008, we adopted SFAS 157, which provides a framework for measuring fair value under GAAP. SFAS 157 defines fair value as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. We determine the fair values of its financial instruments based on the fair value hierarchy established in SFAS 157 which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. The standard describes three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value.Bradesco carries at fair value trading account assets and liabilities, derivative assets and liabilities, available for sale securities and certain other assets.

Fair Value Measurement

Level 1, 2 and 3 Valuation Techniques

Financial instruments are considered Level 1 when valuation can be based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Level 2 financial instruments are valued using quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or models using inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data of substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities. Financial instruments are considered Level 3 when their values are determined using pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies or similar techniques and at least one significant model assumption or input is unobservable and when determination of the fair value requires significant management judgment or estimation.

Valuation adjustment may be made to ensure that financial instruments are recorded at fair value including amounts to reflect counterparty credit quality and the Company creditworthiness. Credit valuation adjustments are necessary when the market price is not indicative of the credit quality of the counterparty. The Company’s derivatives financial instruments are mainly traded in the BM&F and for these derivatives there is no need for valuation adjustments. For contracts of derivatives financial instruments traded over the counter in Brazil the market practices in valuation use inputs assuming the same credit risk of the counterparties. We identified and incorporated credit risk adjustment when determining fair value after considering guarantees, collaterals and other credit factors.

F- 24

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

Level 1
Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Level 1 assets and liabilities include debt and equity securities and derivative contracts that are traded in an active exchange market, as well as Brazilian government securities that are highly liquid and are actively traded in over-the-counter markets.

Level 2
Observable inputs other than Level 1 prices, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities. Level 2 assets and liabilities include derivative contracts whose value is determined using a pricing model with inputs that are observable in the market or can be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data, including but not limited to yield curves, interest rates, volatilities, equity or debt prices and foreign exchange rates.

Level 3
Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities. Level 3 assets and liabilities normally include financial instruments whose value is determined using pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies, or similar techniques, as well as instruments for which the determination of fair value requires significant management judgment or estimation. This category generally includes certain corporate and bank debt securities and certain derivative contracts.

For more information on the fair value of the Bradesco´s financial instruments see Note 21 – Fair Value of Financial Instruments to the consolidated financial statements.

ff) Recent proposed and issued accounting pronouncements

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities - Including an amendment of SFAS no. 115”. SFAS 159 permits companies to choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value in order to mitigate volatility in reported earnings caused by measuring related assets and liabilities differently without having to apply complex hedge accounting provisions. The adoption of SFAS 159 did not impact on the Company’s financial position, as it did not elect to adopt the fair value option for any of its financial assets or liabilities at January 1, 2008.

In November 2007, the SEC issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 109 “Written Loan Commitments Recorded at Fair Value through Earnings” (“SAB 109”), which requires that the expected net future cash flows related to servicing of a loan should be included in the measurement of all written loan commitments measured at fair value through earnings. The adoption of SAB 109 is on a prospective basis and effective for a loan commitments measured at fair value through earnings when are issued or modified after January 1, 2008. We are currently evaluating the potential impact of the adoption of this SAB 109. However, the adoption of this accounting pronouncement is not expected to have a significant impact on our consolidated financial condition and results of operations.

On September 12, 2008, the FASB issued FSP No. 133-1 and FIN 45-4, “Disclosures about Credit Derivatives and Certain Guarantees: An Amendment of FASB Statement No. 133 and FASB Interpretation No. 45; and Clarification of the Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 161” (FSP 133-1). FSP 133-1 requires expanded disclosures about credit derivatives and guarantees. The expanded disclosure requirements for FSP 133-1 were effective for the Bank’s financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2008 and are included in Note 23 (c) – Credit Default Swaps to the Consolidated Financial Statements. The adoption of FSP 133-1 did not impact the Bank’s financial condition and results of operations.

On October 10, 2008, the FASB issued FSP No. 157-3, “Determining the Fair Value of a Financial Asset When the Market for That Asset Is Not Active” (FSP 157-3). FSP 157-3 clarifies how SFAS No. 157 “Fair Value Measurements” (SFAS 157) should be applied when valuing securities in markets that are not active. The adoption of FSP 157-3, effective December 31, 2008, did not have a material impact on the Bank’s financial condition and results of operations.

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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

On December 11, 2008, the FASB issued FSP No. FAS 140-4 and FIN 46(R)-8, “Disclosures by Public Entities (Enterprises) about Transfers of Financial Assets and Interests in Variable Interest Entities” (FSP FAS 140-4 and FIN 46(R)-8). FSP FAS 140-4 and FIN 46(R)-8 amends Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 140 “Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities – a replacement of FASB Statement No. 125” (SFAS 140) to require public entities to provide additional disclosures about transferors’ continuing involvements with transferred financial assets. It also amends FASB Interpretation (FIN) No. 46 (revised December 2003) “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities – an interpretation of ARB No. 51” (FIN 46R) to require public enterprises, including sponsors that have a variable interest in a VIE, to provide additional disclosures about their involvement with VIEs. The expanded disclosure requirements for FSP FAS 140-4 and FIN 46(R)-8 are effective for the Bank’s financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2008 and are included in Note 14 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. The adoption of FSP FAS 140-4 and FIN 46(R)-8 did not impact the Banks’s financial condition and results of operations.

On January 12, 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued FASB Staff Position (FSP) No. Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) 99-20-1, “Amendments to the Impairment and Interest Income Measurement Guidance of EITF Issue No. 99-20” (FSP EITF 99-20-1). FSP EITF 99-20-1 changed the guidance for the determination of whether na impairment of certain non-investment grade, beneficial interests in securitized financial assets is considered other-than-temporary. The adoption of FSP EITF 99-20-1, effective December 31, 2008, did not have a material impact on the Bank’s financial condition and results of operations.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No 141 (“SFAS 141 (R)”) “Business Combinations”. This Statement replaces SFAS 141, “Business Combinations". SFAS 141(R) requires an acquiring entity to recognize all assets acquired, liabilities assumed, and any non controlling interest in the acquired entity at the acquisition date, at fair value as of that date. Also, requires that (i) the measuring stock consideration be based on the quoted market price as of the acquisition date and not on the date the deal is announced, (ii) the contingent consideration arising from a contract and noncontractual contingencies be measured and recognized as an asset or liability at fair value at the acquisition date with subsequent changes in fair value reflected in earnings and noncontractual contingencies that do not meet the more-likely-than-not criteria continue to be recognized when they are probable and reasonably estimable, and (iii) expensing of acquisition-related transaction and restructuring costs. The guidance is effective on a prospective basis for business combinations in which the acquisition date is on or after the first annual reporting period beginning on or after January 1, 2009.

In February 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position No. FSP 140-3, “Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets and Repurchasing Transactions”, ("FSP 140-3"). FSP 140-3 addresses accounting for repurchase agreements related to previously transferred financial assets when the repurchase arrangement is between the same parties as the original transfer. This FSP presumes that an initial transfer of a financial asset and a repurchase agreement are considered part of the same arrangement under SFAS No. 140. However, if certain criteria are met, the initial transfer and repurchase financing shall not be evaluated as a linked transaction and instead should be evaluated separately under SFAS 140. This FSP is effective fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008 and shall be applied prospectively to initial transfers and repurchase financings for which the initial transfer is executed on or after the beginning of the fiscal year this FSP is initially applied. We are currently evaluating the potential impact of the adoption of FSP 140-3.

In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS 161 (“SFAS 161”), “Disclosure about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, an amendment of FASB Statements No. 133”, which requires the enhancement of the current disclosure framework in Statement 133. The Statement requires that the objectives and strategies for using derivative instruments be disclosed in the underlying risks and accounting designation. This Statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008, with early adoption encouraged.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No 160 (“SFAS 160”), “Non-controlling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements – an amendment of ARB No. 51” to establish accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. SFAS No 160 requires the recognition of a non controlling interest as equity in the consolidated financial statements and segregated from the parent’s equity. In addition, net income attributable to the noncontrolling interest must be included in the consolidated net income on the face of the income statement. In case a subsidiary is deconsolidated, any retained noncontrolling equity investment in the former subsidiary should be measured at fair value. The gain or loss on the deconsolidation of the subsidiary is measured using the fair value of any noncontrolling equity investment. SFAS 160 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2008. We are currently evaluating the potential impact of the adoption of FAS 160.

F- 26

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

In April 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position FSP 142-3, “Determination of Useful Life of Intangible Assets”(“FSP FAS 142-3”), which amends the factors that should be considered in developing renewal or extension assumptions used to determine the useful life of a recognized intangible asset under SFAS No 142. In developing such assumptions an entity shall consider its own historical experience in renewing or extending similar arrangements adjusting it for the entity-specific factors. In the absence of that experience, an entity shall consider the assumptions that market participants would use about renewal or extension. This FSP is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, and interim periods within those fiscal years with early adoption prohibited. We are currently evaluating the potential impact of the adoption of FSP FAS 142-3.

In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS 162, “The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles”, which identifies the sources of accounting principles and the framework for selecting the principles used in the preparation of financial statements of nongovernmental entities that are presented in conformity with US GAAP. This Statement shall be effective 60 days following the SEC’s approval of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board - PCAOB amendments to AU Section 411, “The Meaning of Present Fairly in Conformity with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles”.

In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 163, "Accounting for Financial Guarantee Insurance Contracts - an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 60." SFAS 163 requires that an insurance enterprise recognize a claim liability prior to an event of default (insured event) when there is evidence that credit deterioration has occurred in an insured financial obligation. This Statement also clarifies how Statement 60 applies to financial guarantee insurance contracts, including the recognition and measurement to be used to account for premium revenue and claim liabilities. Those clarifications will increase comparability in financial reporting of financial guarantee insurance contracts by insurance enterprises. This Statement requires expanded disclosures about financial guarantee insurance contracts. The accounting and disclosure requirements of the Statement will improve the quality of information provided to users of financial statements. SFAS 163 will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. We are currently evaluating the potential impact of the adoption of SFAS 163.

In December 2008, the FASB issued Staff Position No. SFAS 132(R)-1, “Employers’ Disclosures about Post-Retirement Benefit Plan Assets” (“FSP SFAS 132(R)-1”). This statement is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2009. We are currently evaluating the effects of the adoption of this statement on our consolidated financial statements.

On April 1, 2009, the FABS issued FSP FAS 141(R) – 1, “Accounting for Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed in a Business Combination That Arise from Contingencies” This FSP amends and clarifies FASB No. 141 (R), Business Combinations, to address application issues raised by preparers, auditors, and members of the legal profession on initial recognition and measurement, subsequent measurement and accounting, and disclosure of assets and liabilities arising from contingencies in a business combination. This FSP will be effective for assets or liabilities arising from contingencies in business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after the beginning of the first annual reporting period beginning on or after December 15, 2008.

On April 9, 2009, the FASB issued FSP FAS No. 157-4, “Determining Fair Value When the Volume and Level of Activity for the Asset or Liability Have Significantly Decreased and Identifying Transactions That Are Not Orderly. This FSP provides additional guidance for estimating fair value in accordance with FAS No. 157, when the volume and level of activity for the asset or liability have significantly decreased. This FSP also includes guidance on identifying circumstances that indicate a transaction is not orderly. The adoption of FSP FAS No. 157-4 will be effective for interim and annual reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009, and shall be applied prospectively. We are currently evaluating the potential impact of the adoption of FSP FAS 157-4.

On April 9, 2009, the FASB issued FSP No. FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2, “Recognition and Presentation of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments”. This FSP amends the other-than-temporary impairment guidance in U.S. GAAP for debt securities to make the guidance more operational and to improve the presentation and disclosure of other-than-temporary impairments on debt and equity securities in the financial statements. This FSP does not amend existing recognition and measurement guidance related to other-than-temporary impairments of equity securities. This FSP also expanded the disclosure requirements related to other-than-temporary impairments. FSP No. FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2 will be effective for interim and annual reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009, with early adoption permitted for periods ending after March 15, 2009. We are currently evaluating the potential impact of the adoption of FSP No. FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2.

F- 27

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

In May 2009, the FASB issued SFAS No 165 (“SFAS 165”) “Subsequent Events”. This Statement establishes general standards of accounting for and disclosure of events that occur after the balance sheet date but before financial statements are issued or are available to be issued. In particular, this Statement sets forth (i) the period after the balance sheet date during which management of a reporting entity should evaluate events or transactions that may occur for potential recognition or disclosure in the financial statements, (ii) the circumstances under which an entity should recognize events or transactions occurring after the balance sheet date in its financial statements, and (iii) the disclosures that an entity should make about events or transactions that occurred after the balance sheet date. This Statement is effective for interim or annual financial periods ending after June 15, 2009.

In June 2009, the FASB issued SFAS 166 "Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets—an amendment of FASB Statement No. 140". SFAS 166 removes the concept of a qualifying special-purpose entity from SFAS 140 and removes the exception from applying FIN 46 (R ) to qualifying special-purpose entities. SFAS 166 changes the requirements for derecognizing financial assets modifying the financial-components approach used in SFAS 140 and limits the circumstances in which a financial asset, or portion of a financial asset, should be derecognized when the transferor has not transferred the entire original financial asset to an entity that is not consolidated with the transferor in the financial statements being presented and/or when the transferor has continuing involvement with the transferred financial asset. SFAS 166 removes the special provisions in SFAS 140 and SFAS 65 for guaranteed mortgage securitizations and as a result requires those securitizations to be treated the same as any other transfer of financial assets within the scope of SFAS 140. If such a transfer does not meet the requirements for sale accounting, the securitized mortgage loans should continue to be classified as loans in the transferor’s statement of financial position. Additional disclosures are required to provide financial statement users with greater transparency about transfers of financial assets and a transferor’s continuing involvement with transferred financial assets. This Statement shall be effective for the first annual reporting period that begins after November 15, 2009, for interim periods within that first annual reporting period, and for interim and annual reporting periods thereafter with earlier application prohibited. The recognition and measurement provisions of this SFAS shall be applied to transfers that occur on or after the effective date. We are current evaluating the potential impact of the adopting of this FAS 166 .

In June 2009, the FASB issued SFAS 167 "Amendments to FASB Interpretation No. 46(R)". SFAS 167 amends FIN 46(R) to require an enterprise to perform an analysis to determine whether the enterprise’s variable interest or interests give it a controlling financial interest in a variable interest entity. This analysis identifies the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity as the enterprise that has both of the following characteristics: (i) the power to direct the activities of avariable interest entity that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance, and (ii) the obligation to absorb losses of the entity that could potentially be significant to the variable interest entity or the right to receive benefits from the entity that could potentially be significant to the variable interest entity. Additionally, an enterprise is required to assess whether it has an implicit financial responsibility to ensure that a variable interest entity operates as designed when determining whether it has the power to direct the activities of the variable interest entity that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance. SFAS 167 also require ongoings reassessments of whether an enterprise is the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity and eliminates the quantitative approach previously required for determining the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity, which was based on determining which enterprise absorbs the majority of the entity’s expected losses, receives a majority of the entity’s expected residual returns, or both. SFAS 167 requires enhanced disclosures that will provide users of financial statements with more transparent information about an enterprise’s involvement in a variable interest entity. This Statement shall be effective for the first annual reporting period that begins after November 15, 2009, for interim periods within that first annual reporting period, and for interim and annual reporting periods thereafter with earlier application prohibited. We are current evaluating the potential impact of the adopting of this FAS 167.

3. Brazilian Central Bank Compulsory Deposits

F- 28

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

a) Like other Brazilian financial institutions, we are required to maintain deposit funds with the Central Bank or to purchase and hold Brazilian federal government securities. in the form of compulsory deposits which are as follows:

    December 31, 
   
    2007    2008 
     
Non-interest earning (1)   8,919    5,591 
Interest-earning (2)   14,620    13,183 
Interest-earning (3)   8,274    7,610 
     
 
Total    31,813    26,384 
     

(1)
Related to demand deposits. 
(2)
Time deposits deposited with the Central Bank in the form of Brazilian government securities. 
(3)
Mainly related to saving deposits. 

b) The Brazilian government securities related to the compulsory deposits and accounted for under SFAS 115 were as follows:

    Trading securities    Available for sale
securities 
  Held to maturity 
securities 
       
    2007    2008    2007    2008    2007    2008 
             
Amortized cost    7,773    13,042    511       
Gross unrealized gains      147         
Gross unrealized losses    (1)   (6)   (15)      
             
Fair value    7,772    13,183    496    -      - 
             
Average balance    5,869    9,114                 
             

The amortized cost and the fair value of the securities, by maturity, were as follows:

    December 31, 
   
    2007    2008 
     
    Amortized    Fair    Amortized    Fair 
    cost    value    cost    value 
         
Due in one year or less    7,757    7,756    3,593    3,593 
Due after one year through five years    533    518    9,449    9,590 
         
 
Total    8,290    8,274    13,042    13,183 
         

4. Trading Securities

    Fair value 
   
    December 31,    Average balance 
     
    2007    2008    2007    2008 
         
Mutual funds    36,532    41,042    32,231    39,176 
Brazilian government securities    16,741    35,727    14,815    21,217 
Corporate debt and equity securities    1,846    6,404    769    2,780 
Brazilian sovereign bonds    36    43    45    35 
Bank debt securities    956    4,490    3,188    3,871 
Foreign government securities    1,901    1,756    324    3,449 
         
Total    58,012    89,462    51,372    70,528 
         
Derivative financial instruments    1,134    2,387    1,415    2,261 
         
Total trading account assets    59,146    91,849    52,787    72,789 
         

F- 29

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

Net unrealized gains (losses) included in trading assets at December 31, 2007 and 2008 were R$(65) and R$1,006, respectively.

The net change in the unrealized gains (losses) on trading securities held as of December 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008, included in non-interest income, were R$(82), R$(88) and R$1,071, respectively.

Trading securities presented above include securities pledged as collateral that amounted to R$3,331 and R$6,686 at December 31, 2007 and 2008, respectively.

Derivative positions presented above represent the fair values of interest rate, foreign exchange, equity and commodity-related products, including financial forward settlement and option contracts and swap agreements associated with our financial derivative instruments trading activities.

5. Available for Sale Securities

        Gross    Gross     
    Amortized    unrealized    unrealized    Fair 
    cost    gains    losses    value 
         
December 31, 2007                 
   Brazilian government securities    21,657    1,722    (189)   23,190 
   Brazilian sovereign bonds    361    77      438 
   Corporate debt securities    1,307    59    (2)   1,364 
   Bank debt securities    69    11      80 
   Marketable equity securities    2,385    2,219    (23)   4,581 
         
 
Total    25,779    4,088    (214)   29,653 
         
 
December 31, 2008                 
   Brazilian government securities    19,860    931    (341)   20,450 
   Brazilian sovereign bonds    1,642    249    (114)   1,777 
   Corporate debt securities    4,051    137    (83)   4,105 
   Bank debt securities    341    98    (1)   438 
   Marketable equity securities    4,216    433    (1,464)   3,185 
         
 
Total    30,110    1,848    (2,003)   29,955 
         

At December 31, 2008, the amortized cost of approximately R$4,915 available for sale securities exceeded their fair value by R$2,003. Included in the R$2,003 of gross unrealized losses on available for sale securities at December 31, 2008, was R$1,812 of gross unrealized losses that have existed for less than twelve months and R$ 191 of gross unrealized losses that have existed for a period of twelve months or longer. Of the gross unrealized losses existing for a period of twelve months or longer, R$ 174 or 91% is related to Brazilian government securities. Based upon our analyses performed as described on Note 2(i), which have been applied to those securities, the Company believes that the unrealized losses for Brazilian government securities result from current market conditions and not from concerns regarding the credit of the issuers and does not believe it is probable that will not recover its investments, given the credit rating of these securities are rate “BBB +”. Of the gross unrealized losses existing for less than twelve months, R$1,447, or 80%, of the gross unrealized loss is related to approximately 68 marketable equity securities. The Company believes that the unrealized losses for equity securities result primarily due to the overall decline in the market during the last quarter of 2008 and not from economic conditions of the issuers, mainly represented by the largest Brazilian companies for which the forecast analyses performed by management of the Company demonstrated that the losses are not other than temporary. Based on recovery from similar prior crises and the volatility of share prices in the Brazilian market the Bank had forecast that the substantially all unrealized loss at December 31, 2008 would be recovered within one year.

F- 30

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

The Company intends to hold the securities in an unrealized loss position for a period of time sufficient to allow for an anticipated recovery in fair value or maturity. The Company has sufficient capital and liquidity to hold these securities until recovery in fair value or maturity. Based on the Company’s evaluation of the factors and other objective evidence described above, the Company believes that the securities are not other than- temporarily impaired as of December 31, 2008.

In 2006, 2007 and 2008 as a result of the assessment of the other than temporary impairment we recorded R$64, R$26 and R$89, respectively, as other than temporary losses and they were written off and recorded as non-interest income, for which the Company considers that would not recover substantially all of its recorded investment.

At December 31, 2007 and 2008 there were no securities of a single issuer, or group of related companies, for which the fair value exceeded 10% of shareholders' equity.

Realized gains and losses on securities are calculated based on the average cost method. The components of gains and losses realized on available for sale securities were as follows:

    Year ended December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
Gross gains    1,338    1,575    1,120 
Gross losses    (181)   (119)   (511)
 
       
Net gains    1,157    1,456    609 
       

The amortized cost and fair value of available for sale securities, by maturity, were as follows:

    December 31, 
   
    2007    2008 
     
    Amortized    Fair    Amortized    Fair 
    cost    value    cost    value 
         
Due in one year or less    2,364    2,446    1,662    1,678 
Due after one year through five years    6,387    6,522    3,968    3,940 
Due after five years through ten years    6,029    6,283    6,710    6,940 
Due after ten years    8,614    9,821    13,554    14,212 
No stated maturity (marketable equity securities)   2,385    4,581    4,216    3,185 
         
 
Total    25,779    29,653    30,110    29,955 
         

Available for sale securities presented above include securities pledged as collateral that amounted to R$736 and R$348 at December 31, 2007 and 2008, respectively.

Additionally, available for sale securities presented as “Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell” amount to R$1,318 at December 31, 2008, with a market value of R$1,404, basically consist of Brazilian government securities (maturities between 3 and 10 years). At December 31, 2007 these securities amounted to R$3,899 with a market value of R$4,198.

6. Held to Maturity Securities

The amortized cost and fair value of held to maturity securities were as follows:

F- 31

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

        Gross    Gross     
    Amortized    unrealized    unrealized    Fair 
    cost    gains    losses    value 
         
December 31, 2007                 
   Brazilian government securities    2,643    1,103    (10)   3,736 
   Brazilian sovereign bonds    288    47      335 
   Foreign government securities    50        50 
         
 
Total    2,981    1,150    (10)   4,121 
         
 
December 31, 2008                 
   Brazilian government securities    2,961    1,087    (14)   4,034 
   Brazilian sovereign bonds    1,073    214    (67)   1,220 
   Foreign government securities    63        63 
         
 
Total    4,097    1,301    (81)   5,317 
         

The amortized cost and market value of held to maturity securities, by maturity, were as follows:

    December 31, 
   
    2007    2008 
     
    Amortized    Fair    Amortized    Fair 
    cost    value    cost    value 
         
Due in one year or less        63    63 
Due after one year through five years    265    283    1,105    1,232 
Due after five years through ten years    226    229    258    263 
Due after ten years    2,487    3,605    2,671    3,759 
         
 
Total    2,981    4,121    4,097    5,317 
         

At December 31, 2008, we recorded securities pledged as collateral in our portfolio of held to maturity securities in the amount of R$557 and in 2007- R$3.

In addition, held to maturity securities recorded as “Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell” in an amount of R$75 and 2007- R$578, with a market value of R$84 and 2007- R$665 comprise mainly Brazilian sovereign bonds (maturities from 3 to 10 years).

The following table sets out our securities by denomination:

    December 31, 
   
    2007    2008 
     
    Amortized        Amortized     
    cost    Percentage    cost    Percentage 
         
Brazilian currency (reais)   2,643    89%    2,961    72% 
Indexed to and denominated in foreign currency    338    11    1,136    28 
         
    2,981    100%    4,097    100% 
         

F- 32

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

7. Loans

    December 31, 
   
    2007    2008 
     
Commercial:         
   Industrial and others    44,380    62,216 
   Import financing    2,179    3,350 
   Export financing    15,342    24,130 
Leasing    8,097    20,096 
Construction    1,634    3,134 
Individuals:         
   Overdraft    1,881    2,409 
   Real estate    1,571    2,174 
   Financing (1)   38,791    34,325 
   Credit card    2,330    2,501 
Rural credit    9,032    10,459 
Foreign currency loans    2,529    2,769 
Public sector    94    94 
Non-performing loans    5,277    7,178 
     
Total loans    133,137    174,835 
     

(1) Consisting primarily of automobile financing and direct consumer financing.

8. Allowance for Loan Losses

    Year ended December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
At beginning of year    4,964    6,552    7,769 
Provision for loan losses    3,767    4,616    6,651 
Loan charge-offs    (2,816)   (4,281)   (5,345)
Loan recoveries    637    882    1,243 
       
Net charge-offs    (2,179)   (3,399)   (4,102)
       
At end of year    6,552    7,769    10,318 
       

At December 31, 2007 and 2008, the recorded investment in loans for which impairment has been recognized in accordance with SFAS 114 totaled R$589, and R$1,208, respectively, of which R$340, and R$1,100, related to loans with a corresponding valuation allowance of R$187, and R$538, respectively. For the year ended December 31, 2008, the average recorded investment in impaired loans was approximately R$727. For 2006, 2007 and 2008, interest income recognized on impaired loans was deemed immaterial. At December 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008, we had non-accrual loans of R$4,284, R$5,277 and R$7,178, respectively.

The calculation of the allowance for loan losses comprises an individual analysis of impaired loans and an aggregate loss analysis for groups of homogeneous loans, as follows:

    December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
Impaired loans    167    187    538 
Homogeneous loan losses    6,385    7,582    9,780 
       
 
At end of year    6,552    7,769    10,318 
       

F- 33

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

The allowance for loan losses represents management’s estimate of probable losses inherent in the portfolio. The allowance for homogeneous loans portfolios which consist mainly of consumer loans (e.g. direct consumer financial, real estate, credit card loan) and commercial loans (e.g. industrial, import financing and export financing), is based on loss estimation models which consider a variety of factors including, but not limited to, historical loss experience, delinquencies, estimated defaults, internal credit ratings, together with analyses that reflect current trends and economic conditions.

9. Equity Investees and Other Investments

        December 31, 
     
Company    December 31, 
2008 
  2006    2007    2008 
         
    Voting 
ownership % 
  Equity in 
earnings 
(losses)
  Investment    Equity in 
earnings
(losses)
  Shareholders
´ Equity
 
  Net income 
 (losses)
  Investment    Equity in 
earnings 
(losses)
                 
BES Investimentos do Brasil S.A.    20.00      32    10    185    35    37   
BIU Participações S.A. (1)   33.84            50      17 
Cia. Brasileira de Meios de Pagamento – VISANET    39.26    236    245    351    707    1,441    281    573 
Cia. Brasileira de Soluções e Serviços – Visavale    35.20      21      82    38    28    13 
CPM Holding Ltd.    49.00    (80)   33    25    67      33   
Serasa S.A. (1)     29      10         
Fidelity Processadora e Serviços S.A    49.00          229    (8)   112    (4)
Cia. Brasileira de Gestão e Serviços S.A    41.85          84    (22)   35    (9)
Other Investments (2)     25    429              355   
 
                 
Total        224    761    407            881    597 
                 

(1)
On June 2007, we sold 18.1% interest of the total capital of Serasa S.A. to Experian Brasil Aquisições Ltda. The  gross gain on sale of the mentioned participation was R$ 599. The remaining interest in the shareholders' equity of  Serasa was contributed to BIU, a newly created entity where we obtained 33.84% participation and whose other  shareholders also contributed shares of Serasa to BIU. BIU had as of December 31, 2008 a 24.39% participation in  Serasa. 
(2)
Including mainly our investments in preferred shares of IRB- Brasil Resseguros S.A - 42.5% and CPM Braxis S.A -  31.8%, as well as other investments. 

As of December 31, 2008, the above investments were not regularly traded on any stock exchange.

The following table sets forth, on a combined basis, aggregated summary financial information for our equity investees and other investments.

 
    December 31, 
    2007    2008 
     
Current assets    4,525    5,350 
Non-current assets    922    1,313 
Current liabilities    3,729    5,019 
Non-current liabilities    1,280    1,096 
Gross Profit    2,513    2,591 
Profit before income taxes    1,961    2,227 
Net income    1,417    1,450 

F- 34

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

In 2007, we recorded a gross gain mainly from the partial sale of our investments (i) in Serasa, in the amount of R$599, (ii) in Bovespa – R$253 and (iii) in BM&F (“Future and Commodities Exchange”)– R$263. The remaining balance of our investments in Bovespa and BM&F was classified as “available for sale securities, at fair value”.

Dividends, including interest on shareholders’ capital, received from the equity investees above were as follows:

    Year ended December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
Companhia Brasileira de Meios de Pagamento - Visanet    211    278    537 
Serasa S.A.    22     
Biu Paricipações S.A.      17    18 
Others       
       
Total    236    301    563 
       

10. Premises and Equipment, Net

    December 31, 
   
    2007    2008 
     
Furniture and equipment    1,681    1,854 
Leased equipment    1,846    2,212 
Data processing equipment    1,713    1,722 
Buildings    859    756 
Development and acquisition costs of software    628    911 
Land    508    502 
Leasehold improvements    559    915 
Vehicles    28    28 
Others      10 
Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization    (4,282)   (4,647)
     
Total    3,547    4,263 
     

Depreciation and amortization expense were R$534, R$746 and R$881 for the years ended December 31, 2006, 2007 and 2008, respectively.

We have entered into leasing agreements, primarily related to data processing equipment, which are accounted for as capital leases. Under this accounting method both an asset and an obligation are recorded in the financial statements and the asset is depreciated in a manner consistent with our normal depreciation policy of owned assets.

In 2002 and 2003, certain bank branches were sold through public auctions as part of a disposal program. These comprised cash transactions or installment sales financed by the Bank. There were no sales of bank branches through public auctions in 2007 and 2008.

At the same time, these branches were leased to us for the purpose of continuing our business operations and were accounted for mostly as operating leases. Only the financed sales were maintained as fixed assets, reflecting the possibility of repossession in the event of default by the purchaser.

Future liabilities for the payment of leases related to financings for the following five years are as follows:

For the year ending December 31,    Lease expense 
   
2009    0.5 
2010    0.5 
2011    0.5 
2012    0.5 
2013    0.5 
   
Total    2.5 
   

F- 35

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

11. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

(a) Goodwill

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill as a result of our acquisitions (Note 1 (b)) for the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2008 are as follows:

    Segments 
   
    Banking    Insurance, 
pension plans and 
certificated 
savings plans 
  Total 
       
Balance as of December 31, 2006    667      667 
BMC acquisition    234      234 
Tax benefit on realization for tax purposes of tax deductible             
goodwill on acquisitions    (76)     (76)
       
Balance as of December 31, 2007    825      825 
       
Ágora acquisition    430      430 
Mediservice acquisition      81    81 
Tax benefit on realization for tax purposes of tax deductible    (50)     (50)
       
Balance as of December 31, 2008    1,205    81    1,286 
       

The banking segment and the insurance, pension plans and certificated savings plans, in which we allocated the acquisitions, is tested annually for impairment of goodwill. We did not identify any impairment losses to be recorded in 2007 and 2008.

(b) Other intangible assets

The net carrying amount of finite-lived intangible assets subject to amortization is related to: existing client deposit and relationship portfolios of R$1,722 and R$1,542 and amounts paid to acquire exclusive rights for rendering banking services of R$1,253 and R$1,596, at December 31, 2007 and 2008, respectively.

The net carrying amount of finite-lived intangible assets for the year ended December 31, 2007 and 2008 are as follows:

    Segments 
   
    Banking    Insurance, pension 
plans and 
certificated savings 
plans 
  Total 
       
Balance at January 1, 2007    2,156    7    2,163 
       
Acquisition of BMC    281      281 
Acquisition of Josema    167      167 
Acquisition of rights for rendering banking services    984      984 
Amortized during the year    (616)   (4)   (620)
       
Balance as of December 31, 2007    2,972    3    2,975 
Acquisition of Ágora    143      143 
Acquisition of rights for rendering banking services    822      822 
Amortized during the year    (799)   (3)   (802)
       
Balance as of December 31, 2008    3,138    -    3,138 
       

The following table presents the gross carrying value and accumulated amortization for finite-lived intangible assets subject to amortization:

F- 36

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

    December 31, 2007    December 31, 2008 
     
    Gross carrying    Accumulated    Gross carrying    Accumulated 
    value    amortization    value    amortization 
         
Other intangible assets   5,391    2,416    6,356    3,218 

The aggregate amortization expense was R$430, R$620 and R$802 for 2006, 2007 and 2008, respectively.

The estimated amortization expense for the next five years is as follows:

For the year ended December 31,    Amortization expense 
   
2009    755 
2010    699 
2011    624 
2012    452 
2013    192 

12. Other Assets

    December 31, 
   
    2007    2008 
     
Deferred tax assets, net (Note 16)   4,759    9,782 
Credit card operations    5,804    7,547 
Restricted escrow deposits for taxation and labor matters    4,517    6,173 
Taxes available for offset    1,475    2,274 
Insurance premiums receivable    1,325    1,432 
Negotiation and intermediation of securities    1,378    2,985 
Advances to FGC (Deposit Garantee Association)     898 
Deferred policy acquisition costs(1)   641    817 
National property system    453    467 
Securitization of credit card bill receivables (Note 14 (d))   308    241 
Prepaid expenses    183    133 
Foreclosed assets, net    195    327 
Other    2,429    5,043 
     
Total    23,467    38,119 
     

(1) Commissions paid to insurance brokers on trade of insurance products, private pension plans and certificated savings plans.

13. Short-term Borrowings

    December 31, 
   
    2007    2008 
     
Import and export financings    6,073    10,958 
Commercial paper    1,915    2,890 
Other     
     
Total    7,989    13,849 
     

Import and export financings represent credit lines available to finance imports and exports by Brazilian companies, typically denominated in foreign currency.

F- 37

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

At December 31, 2008 interest rates applicable to short-term borrowings were between 1.62% and 5.47% per annum (2007 – 4.69% and 5.51%) for import and export financings, and 1.62% and 6.04% per annum (2007 – 4.78% and 6.24%) for commercial paper. Average borrowing rates in 2007 and 2008 were 5.36% and 3.95% per annum, respectively.

14. Long-term Debt

    December 31, 
   
    2007    2008 
     
Local onlendings    14,087    19,095 
Subordinated notes    15,850    19,249 
Non-convertible debentures    2,595    1,220 
Debt issued under securitization of payment orders and credit card bill receivables (Note 14 (d))   2,497    5,305 
Euronotes    810    217 
Mortgage notes    867    771 
Obligations under capital leases    874    1,042 
Foreign currency loans (1)   1,335    356 
     
 
Total    38,915    47,255 
     

(1)
On December 3, 2007, we made a foreign currency loan in the amount of JPY 79,205, corresponding to R$1,283. The maturity date of the transaction was November 26, 2008. 

(a) Local onlendings

Local onlendings represent amounts borrowed from Brazilian agencies for loans to Brazilian entities that invest primarily in premises and equipment. Such amounts are due in monthly installments through 2029 and bear fixed interest between 1.0% and 19.7% per annum, plus variable interest based on the Taxa de Juros de Longo Prazo (Federal Government long-term interest rate determined on a quarterly basis, or "TJLP") and Taxa Referencial de Juros (reference interest rate, or “TR”) respectively. These borrowings are primarily from Banco Nacional de Desenvolvimento Econômico e Social - BNDES (National Economic and Social Development Bank) and Fundo de Financiamento para Aquisição de Máquinas e Equipamentos Industriais - FINAME (National Industrial Equipment Finance Authority) in the form of credit lines.

(b) Subordinated notes

F- 38

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

    December 31, 
         
Maturity/date    Original 
term 
(in years)
  Currency    Interest %    2007    2008 
           
2008      R$    100% CDI(1) + 0.75%    616   
2011      R$    102.5% CDI(1) – 104% CDI(1)   5,608    6,328 
2011    10    US$    10.25%    265    347 
            103% CDI(1)        
            100% CDI(1) + 0.344%         
2012      R$    IPCA + (7.102% - 7.632%)   3,327    3,758 
            100% CDI(1) + 0.75%         
            100% CDI(1) + 0.87%         
2012    10    R$    100% CDI(1) – 102.5%CDI(1)   3,770    4,252 
            100% CDI(1) + 0.34%         
            100% CDI(1) + 0.49%         
            100% CDI(1) + 0.82%         
2013      R$    IPCA + (7.44% - 8.20%)     631 
2014      R$    112% CDI(1)     1,018 
2012    10    Yen    4.05    241    315 
2013    10    US$    8.75    896    1,172 
2014    10    US$    8.00    592    729 
No stated                     
maturity(2)       US$    8.87    535    699 
           
Total                15,850    19,249 
           

(1)
Brazilian benchmark interest rate. 
(2)
On June 3, 2005, perpetual subordinated debt was issued in the amount of US$ 300. With interest paid on a quarterly basis as from September 3, 2005. 

(c) Non-convertible debentures

                December 31, 
         
Maturity/date    Original 
term 
years 
  Currency    Interest %    2007    2008 
           
2011      R$    104% - CDI    2,595    1,220 
           
 
Total                2,595    1,220 
           

(d) Debt issued under securitization of payment orders and credit card bill receivables

As from 2003, we securitize current and future flows of (i) payment orders from individuals and corporations outside Brazil to individuals and corporations in Brazil on which we act as the paying bank and (ii) credit card bill receivables from purchases in Brazil by foreign cardholders.

The Long-term debt issued by the SPF entities and sold to investors is expected to be repaid through the future flows of funds provided by both payment orders and credit card bills. We are obligated to redeem the debt if certain specified events of defaults or of early termination occur.

Proceeds from sale of current and future flows of payment orders and credit cards bills received by the SPF entities are required to be maintained in a specified bank account until a certain minimum level is achieved. The amount subject to restricted withdrawal in the amount of R$63 in 2008 is considered "Restricted Cash" and presented as “Cash and due from banks” in our consolidated balance sheet. As of December 31, 2007 this effect did not exist.

F- 39

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

The following table summarizes the main characteristics of debts issued by the SPF entities:

                December 31, 
         
Asset securitized    Maturity/date    Currency    Annual rate - %    2007    2008 
           
Payment orders(1)   2010    US$    6.75    191    116 
Payment orders(1)   2012    US$    4.69    142    150 
Payment orders(1)   2014    US$    2.80 - 5.89    1,612    3,282 
Payment orders    2015    US$    2.41      1,170 
Credit card bills(2)   2011    US$    5.69    552    587 
           
Total                2,497    5,305 
           

(1)
If the SPF entity fails to make a timely payment of accrued interest and/or principal, the investors have the benefit of a financial guarantee insurance policy provided by an unrelated insurance company. 
(2)
The majority of the securities issued will be repaid through the future flows of credit card bills provided by us, whereas the remaining securities will be repaid by the beneficiary designated bank (Banco do Brasil S.A.). Therefore, since the SPF entity was consolidated in our financial statements, we have recorded, our portion, R$241 as securitization of credit card bill receivables in “Other assets” as of December 31, 2008 (2007 – R$ 308). 

(e) Euronotes

            December 31, 
       
Maturity/date    Currency    Range of annual coupon rates - %    2007    2008 
         
2008    US$    4.38 -12.29    548   
2009    US$    12.29      31 
2010    R$    14.80    258    141 
After 2011    US$    1.47 – 6.39      45 
         
Total    810    217 
         

(f) Mortgage notes

Mortgage notes are generally issued with maturities up to one year and bear interest rates of TR plus interest between 10.5% and 11.0% p.a.

(g) Long-term debt maturity

    December 31, 
   
    2007    2008 
     
Due within one year    8,395    8,664 
From 1 to 2 years    6,912    8,594 
From 2 to 3 years    613    8,613 
From 3 to 4 years    11,571    8,564 
From 4 to 5 years    6,692    4,399 
Over 5 years    4,197    7,722 
No stated maturity    535    699 
     
 
Total    38,915    47,255 
     

F- 40

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

15. Other Liabilities

(a) Breakdown of other liabilities

    December 31, 
   
    2007    2008 
     
Pension plan investment contracts    37,947    43,388 
Insurance claims and pension plans reserves    14,616    14,689 
Litigation (Note 24 (b))   9,091    9,968 
Credit card operations    6,018    5,921 
Certificated savings plans    2,491    2,706 
Unpaid claims and claim adjustment reserves (Note 15 (b))   2,738    3,052 
Payment orders to be settled    2,092    2,844 
Interest on shareholders’ capital payable    2,194    1,686 
Negotiation and intermediation of securities    1,457    2,454 
Taxes on income    1,239    1,022 
Labor related liabilities    1,120    1,274 
Foreign exchange portfolio, net    607    710 
Social security program reserve    382    331 
Taxes other than on income    262    335 
Collection of third-party taxes, social contributions and other    267    327 
Others    4,358    6,986 
     
 
Total    86,879    97,693 
     

(b) Changes in unpaid claims and claim adjustment reserves

    December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
Balance at the beginning of the year    2,383    2,821    2,738 
( - ) Reinsurance recoverables(1)   (53)   (35)   (55)
       
Net balance at January 1    2,330    2,786    2,683 
       
Incurred related to:             
   current year    5,963    6,462    7,162 
   prior years    396    399    555 
       
Total incurred    6,359    6,861    7,717 
       
Payments related to:             
   current year    5,442    5,970    5,244 
   prior years    461    994    2,142 
       
Total payments    5,903    6,964    7,386 
       
Net balance at December 31    2,786    2,683    3,014 
       
( + ) Reinsurance recoverables(1)   35    55    38 
       
Balance at the end of the year    2,821    2,738    3,052 
       

____________________
(1)
Reinsurance recoverables are recorded as “Insurance premiums receivable” in “Other assets”. 

F- 41

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

16. Income Tax and Social Contribution

We and each of our subsidiaries file separate company tax returns for each fiscal year. Income taxes in Brazil comprise federal income tax (rate of 15% plus an additional of 10%) and social contribution (rate of 15%), which is an additional federal tax, applicable to all periods presented.

On January, 2008, the Brazilian Government increased the social contribution rate for companies of the financial sector, from 9.0% to 15.0% . Financial Institutions have collected the social contribution at a rate of 15% since May 1, 2008.

The amounts reported as income tax expense in the consolidated financial statements are reconciled to the statutory rates as follows:

    Years ended December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
Income before income tax and social contribution    8,750    11,297    6,748 
Adjusted for: equity in earnings of unconsolidated companies    (224)   (407)   (597)
       
Adjusted tax basis    8,526    10,890    6,151 
       
Tax expense at statutory rates    (2,899)   (3,703)   (2,460)
Non deductible expenses/(non-taxable income)   (35)   89    (15)
Tax benefit on interest attributed to shareholders’ capital paid    523    539    783 
Non-deductible exchange gains (losses) on foreign assets    (171)   (606)   803 
Foreign exchange variation adjustment on available for sale securities    (23)   99   
Reversal of prior year allowance for non-realization of deferred tax assets    116    107   
Effect of changes in tax laws and rates on deferred tax        1,240 
Deferred tax assets acquired from purchase of a non operating entity    53     
Others    163    123    50 
       
 
Income tax expense    (2,273)   (3,352)   401 
       

The major components of the deferred tax accounts in the consolidated balance sheet are as follows:

    December 31, 
   
    2007    2008 
     
Provisions not currently deductible, mainly allowance for loan losses and contingencies    6,492    11,803 
Tax loss carryforwards    761    1,446 
Other temporary differences    190    93 
     
 
Total gross deferred tax assets    7,443    13,342 
     
 
Allowance for non-realization    (37)   (42)
     
 
Total deferred tax assets    7,406    13,300 
     
 
Temporary non-taxable gains, mainly relating to mark-to-market adjustment on securities, derivative financial instruments    1,391    955 
Temporary non-taxable gains, mainly relating to leasing    518    1,325 
Other temporary differences    738    1,238 
     
 
Total deferred tax liabilities    2,647    3,518 
     
 
Net deferred tax asset, included in other assets (Note 12)   4,759    9,782 
     

F- 42

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

Net deferred income taxes include brazilian tax loss carryforward, which have no expiration dates, available for offset against future taxable income. Carryforward losses are available for offset within any year up to 30% of annual income before taxes, determined in accordance with Brazilian Tax Rules. For tax loss carryforward recorded by subsidiaries or foreign branches there is no limit as to offsetting.

We adopted the provisions of FASB Interpretation No 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes, on January 1, 2007. As a result of the implementation of Interpretation 48, no increase or decrease in the liability for unrecognized tax benefits was recognized. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending liabilities amounts of unrecognized tax benefits are as follows:

    December 31, 
   
    2007    2008 
     
Balance at the beginning of the year    2,391    2,977 
Provision and Indexation charges    522    289 
Payments and reversal    (13)   (37)
Business combination    77   
     
Balance at the end of the year    2,977    3,229 
     

The above balance at the end of the year represents the amount of unrecognized tax benefits reported in “Tax litigation”. (See note 24 (b)) that if recognized, would favorably affect the effective tax rate in future periods (except interest accrued and penalties).

We recognize interest accrued and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as liabilities and expense, which includes the total amount of R$ 164 and R$ 190 for the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2008, respectively in other non-interest expense. The Company recorded a liability of R$1,393 and R$ 1,583 for the payment of the interest and penalties accrued at December 31, 2007 and 2008, respectively.

As of December 31, 2008, we have been involved in several tax disputes, including judicial lawsuits and administrative proceedings, mainly relating to the constitutionality and legality of certain taxes imposed on us by the Brazilian government, among which the most relevant are related to: (i) questioning of CSLL required from financial institutions in the reference years from 1995 to 1998 by rates higher than the ones applied to general legal entities, not complying with the constitutional principle of isonomy, representing R$ 1,366; (ii) lawsuit to allow the deduction, for purposes of determination of the calculation basis of due IRPJ and CSLL, of the amount of the effective and definite losses, total or partial, suffered from 1997 to 2006, in the reception of credits, regardless of the compliance with the conditions and terms provided for in articles 9 to 14 of Law No. 9,430/96 which only apply to the provisory losses, in the amount of R$ 567; and (iii) a lawsuit for the non-collection of CSLL from 1996 to 1998, years in which some companies of Bradesco Organization did not have employees, since the subsection I, article 195, of the Federal Constitution provides for that this contribution is only due by employers, in the amount of R$ 511.

Although it is possible that a change in the gross balance of unrecognized tax benefits may occur in the next 12 months of December 31, 2008, quantification of an estimated range cannot be made at this time due to the uncertainty of the potential outcome of outstanding issues in Brazilian courts. However, we do not anticipate any adjustments would result in a material change to its financial position.

We file income tax returns in the Brazilian federal jurisdiction, the major tax jurisdictions in which we and our subsidiaries operate, and should be no longer subject to examinations by Brazilian tax authority for tax years before 2004.

17. Shareholders' Equity

(a) Capital and shareholders' rights

F- 43

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

(i) Capital

The Special Stockholders’ Meeting held on March 12, 2007 resolved on a R$3,800 increase in the capital stock, raising it from R$14,200 to R$18,000, by using part of the balance in the account “Profit Reserves – Statutory Reserve”, assigning to the Company’s stockholders, free of charge, as a bonus, one (1) new stock of the same type for each stock owned. 1,000,679,724 non-par registered, book-entry stocks were issued, 500,042,656 of which were common stocks and 500,637,068 were preferred stocks. All share amounts presented above are demonstrated before the split of our capital stock of March 24, 2008.

In our Extraordinary General Shareholders´ Meeting held on August 24, 2007, we approved a capital increase of R$ 790, from R$ 18,000 to R$ 18,790, through the issuance of 18,599,132 new book-entry nominative shares, with no par value, with 9,299,618 common shares and 9,299,514 preferred shares. This increase happened as a result of the merger of BMC shares, which belonged to the former BMC shareholders, into Bradesco, making BMC one of our wholly-owned subsidiaries. There was another capital increase in the amount of R$ 210 reaching R$ 19,000, through the capitalization of a partial balance from the “Profits Reserve – Statutory Reserve” account, with no issuance of shares. These transactions were approved by the Central Bank on September 28, 2007. All share amounts presented above are demonstrated before the split of our capital stock of March 24, 2008.

The Special Shareholders’ Meeting held on January 4, 2008 resolved to increase the capital stock by R$1,200, increasing it from R$19,000 to R$20,200 thousand, by means of the issuance of 27,906,977 new shares, all non-par, registered, book-entry shares, 13,953,489 of which are common shares and 13,953,488 are preferred shares.

The Special Shareholders’ Meeting held on March 24, 2008 resolved to increase the capital stock in the amount of R$2,800, raising it from R$20,200 to R$23,000, by using part of the balance of “Profit Reserves– Statutory Reserve,” attributing to the Company’s shareholders, free of charge, as a bonus, one (1) new share of the same type for each two (2) shares owned. 1,023,288,867 non-par, registered, book-entry shares were issued, 511,644,460 of which are common shares and 511,644,407 are preferred shares.

Simultaneously and in the same proportion to the transaction in the Brazilian Market, DRs were granted as a bonus in the American (NYSE) and European (Latibex) markets, and investors received one (1) new DR for each two (2) DRs owned, which continued to be traded in the proportion of one (1) preferred share for one (1) DR, in the respective markets. The process was ratified by Bacen on March 27, 2008.

At December 31, 2008, Bradesco's outstanding capital consists of 1,534,805,958 voting common shares and 1,534,900,221 non-voting preferred shares with no par value. Preferred shares carry no voting rights but have priority over common shareholders in the reimbursement of capital in the case of liquidation, up to the amount of capital represented by such preferred shares, and the right to receive a minimum dividend per-share 10% greater than that distributed per-share to common shareholders.

All shareholders are entitled to receive, in total, a mandatory dividend of at least 30% of Bradesco's annual net income as stated in the statutory accounting records adjusted for transfers to and from reserves. None of our outstanding obligations are exchangeable or convertible into equity securities and as a result, diluted earnings per share do not differ from net income per share.

(ii) Treasury shares

Treasury shares are recorded at cost, which approximates market prices at the date of purchase. Treasury shares cancelled are recorded as a reduction of unappropriated retained earnings. Treasury shares are held for subsequent sale or cancellation.

F- 44

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

(iii) Additional paid-in capital

Additional paid-in capital consists of premium on the initial issuance of shares less capitalization of such amounts.

(b) Appropriated retained earnings

Statutory reserve

Under the Corporate Law, Bradesco and its Brazilian subsidiaries are required to appropriate 5% of their annual statutory earnings, after absorbing accumulated losses, to a legal reserve, which is restricted as to distribution. The reserve may be used to increase capital or absorb losses, but may not be distributed as dividends.

(c) Unappropriated retained earnings

Any income remaining after the distribution of dividends on the statutory records of the Company and appropriations to statutory reserves is transferred to the reserve for future investments. Such reserve may be distributed in the form of dividends upon approval of the shareholders.

Accordingly, the difference as compared to retained earnings in the U.S. GAAP financial statements represents the effect of interperiod differences between U.S. GAAP and Brazilian GAAP, which will become distributable only when recognized under Corporate Law.

(d) Dividends (including interest on shareholders' capital)

Dividends are calculated on net income as determined by the financial statements prepared in accordance with Brazilian GAAP. Dividends are payable in Brazilian reais and may be converted into United States dollars and remitted to shareholders abroad provided that the non-resident shareholder's ownership is registered with the Brazilian Central Bank.

Brazilian companies are permitted to pay interest on capital to shareholders based on shareholders’ equity, and treat such payments as a tax deductible expense for Brazilian income and social contribution tax purposes. The notional interest charge is treated for accounting purposes as a deduction from shareholders’ equity in a manner similar to a dividend. A withholding tax is due and paid upon payments of interest on capital to shareholders.

(e) Comprehensive Income

    Year ended December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
 
Net income reported in statement of income    6,462    7,908    7,018 
       
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period:             
   Unrealized gains (losses) on available for sale securities    2,228    2,696    (2,718)
   Less reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses on available for sale securities included in net income    (1,157)   (1,456)   (609)
Defined benefit plans      65    21 
       
Other comprehensive income before tax    1,071    1,305    (3,306)
Income tax related to items of other comprehensive income (loss)   (338)   (577)   1,503 
       
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax    733    728    (1,803)
       
Comprehensive income    7,195    8,636    5,215 
       

F- 45

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

(f) Accumulated other comprehensive income is as follows:

    Year ended December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
 
Balance at the beginning of the year    412    1,160    1,888 
Current period change:             
     Unrealized gains (losses) on available for sale securities. net of taxes    733    685    (1,810)
     Defined benefit plans    15    43   
       
Balance at the end of the year    1,160    1,888    85 
       

18. Fee and Commission Income

    Years ended December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
Fees charged on checking account services    1,879    2,108    1,794 
Asset management fees    1,245    1,455    1,826 
Collection fees    751    859    959 
Credit card fees    929    1,273    1,696 
Interbank fees    290    321    387 
Fees for receipt of taxes    237    237    219 
Financial guarantees    143    197    330 
Consortium management    202    256    318 
Other(1)   703    1,113    1,468 
       
Total    6,379    7,819    8,997 
       

(1) None of the items included in “other” is significant on an individual basis.

19. Administrative Expenses

    Years ended December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
Third-party services    1,343    1,820    2,281 
Financial system services    634    658    831 
Communication    738    923    1,052 
Transport    523    509    553 
Rents    343    353    453 
Advertising and publicity    443    557    610 
Maintenance and repairs    312    292    373 
Data processing    329    467    440 
Office supplies    165    189    200 
Water, electricity and gas    158    172    180 
Other    235    296    315 
       
 
Total    5,223    6,236    7,288 
       

F- 46

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

20. Other Non-Interest Income and Expenses

    Years ended December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
Other non-interest income:             
   Net gains in foreign exchange transactions    43    48    488 
   Recovery of expenses    122    46    59 
   Rental income    21    10    14 
   Other(2)   635    1,003    1,429 
       
Total non-interest income    821    1,107    1,990 
       
Other non-interest expense:             
   Taxes on services, income and other taxes    2,042    2,327    1,816 
   Litigation(1)   324    509    635 
   Monetary variation and exchange loss, net    608    1,459    210 
   Branch network losses    265    130    165 
   Loss (gain) on sale of foreclosed assets, unconsolidated investments and premises and equipment, net (3)   (27)   (1,200)   (165)
   Credit card bonus    101    162    196 
   Asset management expenses    38    23    34 
   Other(2)   1,378    1,330    3,613 
       
Total non-interest expenses    4,729    4,740    6,504 
       

(1)
Includes only those items not recognized specifically in personnel or tax expenses, registered in specific accounts. 
(2)
None of the items included in “other” is significant on an individual basis. 
(3)
In 2007, we recorded a gross gain mainly from the partial sale of our investments (i) in Serasa, in the amount of R$599, (ii) in Bovespa – R$253 and (iii) in BM&F – R$263. The remaining balance of our investments in Bovespa and BM&F was reclassified as “available for sale securities, at fair value”. 

21. Fair Value Disclosures

The fair market values of financial instruments are measured in accordance with SFAS 157, which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs to determine the amount that would be exchanged to sell an asset or transfer a liability, in an orderly transaction between market participants, also referred to as exit price. Also in accordance with SFAS 157, we categorize its financial instruments, based on the priority of inputs to the valuation technique, into a three-level hierarchy, as discussed below. Trading account assets, derivative assets and liabilities and available for sale debt and marketable equity securities are carried at fair value in accordance with accounting literature, including SFAS 115, “Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities (SFAS 115) and SFAS 133.

Trading Assets and Available-for-Sale Securities

The fair values of trading account assets and liabilities and available for sale securities are primarily based on actively traded markets where prices are based on either direct market quotes, observed transactions or market prices for similar assets. Liquidity is a significant factor in the determination of the fair values of trading account assets or liabilities and available for sale securities. Level 1 securities included highly liquid equity securities, mutual funds, Brazilian government securities as well certain foreign government securities. Level 2 include corporate and bank debt securities for which market price quotes may not be readily available. The fair value of these instruments are estimated based on quoted prices for similar assets or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets We also use pricing models or discounted cash flow methodologies . Situations of illiquidity generally are triggered by the market’s perception of credit uncertainty regarding a single company or a specific market sector. In these instances the securities are classified within level 3 of the valuation hierarchy once the fair value is determined based on unobservable inputs that are supported by limited available market information and that are significant to the fair value of the assets as well as other factors which require significant management judgment or estimation.

F- 47

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

Derivative Assets and Liabilities

Exchange traded derivatives valued using quoted prices are classified within level 1 of the valuation hierarchy. However few classes of derivatives contracts are listed on an exchange, thus, the majority of the Bank´s derivative positions are determined using quantitative models that require the use of multiple inputs including interest rates, prices, and indices to generate continuous yield or pricing curves and volatility factors, including the period to maturity, which are used to value the position. The majority of market inputs are observable and can be obtained mainly from BM&F and the secondary market.

The yield curves are used to determine the fair value for currency swaps and swaps based on other risk factors. The fair value of futures and forward contracts is also determined on quoted markets prices on the exchanges of exchanges-traded derivatives or using similar methodologies to those described for swaps. The fair value of options is determined on mathematical models, such as Black-Scholes, using yield curves, implied volatilities and the fair value of the underlying asset. Current market prices are used to determine the implied volatilities. Further, many of these models do not contain a high level of subjectivity as the methodologies used in the models do not require significant judgment and inputs to the model are readily observable from actively quoted markets. Such instruments are generally classified within level 2 of the valuation hierarchy.The fair values of derivative assets and liabilities also include adjustments for market liquidity, counterparty credit quality and other deal specific factors, where appropriate.

Derivatives that are valued based upon with significant unobservable market parameters and that are not traded less actively are classified within level 3 of the valuation hierarchy. Level 3 derivatives include credit default swaps referenced to corporate debt securities.

Recurring Fair Value

Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis.

    R$ million 
   
    December 31, 2008 
   
Assets    Level 1    Level 2    Level 3    Fair Value 
         
Brazilian government securities    13,183        13,183 
 
         
Brazilian Central Bank compulsory deposits    13,183    -    -    13,183 
         
 
Mutual funds    41,042        41,042 
Brazilian government securities    35,727        35,727 
Corporate debt and equity securities    1,433    14    4,957    6,404 
Brazilian sovereign bonds    43        43 
Bank debt securities    19    24    4,447    4,490 
Foreign government securities    84    1,672      1,756 
 
         
Trading assets    78,348    1,710    9,404    89,462 
 
Derivative financial instruments    13    2,298    76    2,387 
Derivative financial instruments (liabilities)     (1,999)   (42)   (2,041)
 
         
Derivative financial instruments    13    299    34    346 
         
 
Brazilian government securities    20,254    96    100    20,450 
Corporate debt securities    2,616    40    1,449    4,105 
Brazilian sovereign bonds    1,777        1,777 
Bank debt securities    354    29    55    438 
Equity Securities    3,185        3,185 
 
         
Available-for-sale securities    28,186    165    1,604    29,955 
         
         
Total Trading Assets at Fair Value    119,730    2,174    11,042    132,946 
         

F- 48

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

The table below presents a reconciliation of all assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) during the year ended December 31, 2008, including realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in earnings and other comprehensive income.

    R$ million 
   
    Trading 
Assets 
  Net 
Derivatives (a)
  Available-for- 
sale securities 
  Total 
         
Balance, January 1, 2008    3,845    20    345    4,210 
         
 Included in earnings    1,906    14    91    2,011 
 Included in other comprehensive income        (79)   (79)
 Purchases, issuances and settlements    3,653      1,247    4,900 
         
Balance, December 31, 2008    9,404    34    1,604    11,042 
         

(a) Net derivatives at December 31, 2008 included derivative assets of R$76 and derivative liabilities of R$42.

There was no significant transfer of securities between level 3 and other levels during 2008.

The table below summarizes gains and losses due to changes in fair value, including both realized and unrealized gains and losses, recorded in earnings for Level 3 assets and liabilities during the year ended December 31, 2008.

    R$ million 
   
    Trading 
Assets 
  Net 
Derivatives (a)
  Available-for- 
sale securities 
  Total 
         
 
 Interest on securities (trading)   1,948      82    2,030 
 Net trading gains / losses    (42)   14      (28) 
 Net realized gains / losses on Available-for-                 
 Sale Securities         
 
         
Total    1,906    14    91    2,011 
         

The table below summarizes gains and losses due to changes in fair value, including both realized and unrealized gains and losses, recorded in earnings for Level 3 assets and liabilities that were still held at December 31, 2008.

    R$ million 
   
    Trading 
Assets 
  Net 
Derivatives (a)
  Total 
       
 Net Trading Gain (losses)   19    14    33 
       
Total    19    14    33 
       

Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis

Certain assets and liabilities are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis; that is, the instruments are not measured at fair value on an ongoing basis but are subject to fair value adjustments only in certain circumstances. The Company did not have any asset or liability for which a nonrecurring change in fair value has been recorded during 2008.

22. Fair Value of Financial Instruments (SFAS 107 Dislosure)

SFAS 107 "Disclosures About Fair Value of Financial Instruments," requires disclosure of the estimated fair values of financial instruments. Quoted market prices, if available, are utilized as estimates of the fair value of financial instruments. Because no quoted market prices exist for certain of our financial instruments the fair values have been derived based on management's assumptions, the amount, timing of future cash flows and estimated discount rates. The estimation methods for individual classifications of financial instruments are described with more details below. Different assumptions could significantly affect these estimates. Accordingly, net realizable values could be different from the estimates presented below.

F- 49

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

In addition, the estimates are only indicative of the value of individual financial instruments and should not be considered an indication of the fair value of the Company.

Cash and cash equivalents

The carrying amounts reported in the consolidated balance sheet for cash, due from banks and short-term investments approximate their fair values. Short-term investments include: interest-earning deposits in other banks and federal funds sold and securities purchased under resale agreements. These financial instruments generally expose the Bank to limited credit risk and have no stated maturities or have short-term maturities and carry interest rates that approximate market.

Held to maturity securities

Held to maturity securities are carried at amortized cost. Fair values are estimated according to the assumptions described on note 2 (e) and 21. See Note 6 for further details regarding the amortized cost and fair values of held to maturity securities.

Loans, net of allowance for loan losses

Fair values were estimated for groups of similar loans based upon type of loan, credit quality and maturity. The fair value of fixed-rate loans was determined by discounting estimated cash flows using interest rates approximating our current origination rates for similar loans. For most variable-rate loans, the carrying amounts were considered to approximate fair value. Where credit deterioration has occurred, estimated cash flows for fixed and variable-rate loans have been reduced to incorporate estimated losses.

The fair values for performing loans are calculated by discounting scheduled principal and interest cash flows through maturity using market discount rates and yield curves that reflect the credit and interest rate risk inherent in the loan type at each reporting date. The fair values for impaired loans are based on the discounting cash flows or the value of underlying collateral.

The non-performing loans were allocated into each loan category for purposes of fair value disclosure. Assumptions regarding cash flows and discount rates are determined using available market information and specific borrower information.

The following table presents the carrying amounts and estimated fair values for loans, excluding leasing operations:

F- 50

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

    December 31, 
   
    2007    2008 
     
    Carrying    Fair    Carrying    Fair 
    amount    value    amount    value 
         
Commercial:                 
   Industrial and others    42,895    43,179    60,576    60,758 
   Import financing    2,171    2,171    3,346    3,346 
   Export financing    15,281    15,281    23,798    23,798 
Construction    1,598    1,598    3,110    3,110 
Individuals:                 
   Overdraft    1,899    1,899    2,449    2,449 
   Real estate    1,485    1,486    1,952    1,953 
   Financing (1)   37,850    37,956    33,401    33,236 
   Credit card    2,529    2,529    2,681    2,681 
Rural credit    9,006    9,001    10,449    10,463 
Foreign currency loans    2,522    2,492    2,765    2,780 
Public sector    94    94    94    94 
         
 
Total loans, net of allowance for loan losses    117,330    117,686    144,621    144,668 
         

(1) Consists primarily of automobile financing and direct consumer financing.

Deposits

The fair value of fixed-rate deposits with stated maturities was calculated by discounting the difference between the cash flows on a contractual basis and current market rates for instruments with similar maturities. For variable-rate deposits, the carrying amount was considered to approximate fair value.

The following table presents the carrying amounts and estimated fair values for deposits:

    December 31, 
   
    2007    2008 
     
    Carrying    Fair    Carrying    Fair 
    amount    value    amount    value 
         
Deposits from customers:                 
   Demand deposits    29,423    29,423    28,612    28,612 
   Savings accounts    32,813    32,813    37,768    37,768 
   Time deposits    35,733    35,729    97,423    97,733 
Deposits from financial institutions    372    372    698    698 
         
 
Total deposits    98,341    98,337    164,501    164,811 
         

Short-term borrowings

The carrying values of federal funds purchased and securities sold under repurchase agreements. commercial paper, import and export financing and other short-term borrowings, approximate the fair values of these instruments.

Long-term debt

Fair values for long-term debt were estimated using a discounted cash flow calculation that applies interest rates offered in the market for similar maturities and terms.

The following table presents the carrying amounts and estimated fair values for long-term debt:

F- 51

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

    December 31, 
   
    2007    2008 
     
    Carrying    Fair    Carrying    Fair 
    amount    value    amount    value 
         
Local onlendings    14,087    13,993    19,095    19,058 
Subordinated notes    15,850    16,161    19,249    19,589 
Non-convertible debentures    2,595    2,595    1,220    1,220 
Debt issued under securitization of payment orders and credit card bill receivables    2,497    2,497    5,305    5,305 
Euronotes    810    781    217    216 
Mortgage notes    867    867    771    771 
Obligations under capital lease    874    874    1,042    1,042 
Foreign currency loans    1,335    1,349    356    360 
         
 
Total    38,915    39,117    47,255    47,561 
         

Off-balance sheet financial instruments

The fair value of commitments to extend credit is estimated based on the fees currently charged to enter into similar agreements taking into account the remaining terms of the agreements and the present credit quality to the counterparties.

The fair values of standby and commercial letters of credit are based on fees currently charged for similar agreements or on the estimated cost to terminate the agreements or otherwise settle the obligations with the counterparties. The fair value of derivatives is included with trading assets. Note 23(b) for the notional value and estimated fair value of our off-balance sheet derivative financial instruments.

23. Off-balance Sheet Financial Instruments

(a) Risks and Risk Management

The main risks related to financial instruments, which result from the Company’s and its subsidiaries’ business are: credit risk; market risk and; liquidity risk. Management of these risks is a process that involves different levels of the Company and covers several policies and strategies. In order to ensure uniqueness in the risk management process, a high level permanent forum was created with the intention of obtaining synergy among these activities at the Company. This forum, called Integrated Risk Management and Capital Allocation Committee, is a statutory body and has as duty to advise the Board of Directors on the approval of institutional policies, operational guidelines and the establishment of exposures limits to risks within the scope of the Company. Risk management policies are, in general, conservative, seeking to limit absolute losses to a minimum.

Credit Risk and Concentration Risk

Credit risk is the risk arising from the possibility of loss resulting from the non-receipt from counterparties or creditors of the amounts they have contracted with us to pay. Credit risk management requires a high level of discipline and control in terms of the analyses and operations conducted, and the preservation of the integrity and independence of processes.

Credit policy is designed to provide security, quality and liquidity in asset investments, and speed and profitability in our operations, minimizing the risks inherent to any credit operation. It also provides guidelines for the establishment of operational limits and/or the extension of the Company’s credit. The Credit Department and Committees located in our Corporate Head Office assume a fundamental role in the execution of our Credit Policy, deciding on transactions which exceed branch limits and monitoring this core strategic activity. Transactions are diversified and focused on creditworthy individuals and companies in good standing, and our transactions are typically supported by guaranties that are consistent with the risks assumed, with consideration given to purposes and terms of the credit extended. Automated credit approval systems were developed and are constantly being improved with the objective of facilitating and expediting the entire credit process as well as the analysis and issuance of opinions. The analysis of transactions involving less significant sums is conducted by “credit scoring” systems.

F- 52

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

Concentrations of credit risk arise when a number of customers are engaged in similar business activities or activities in the same geographic region, or when they have similar economic features that would cause their ability to meet contractual obligations to be similarly affected by changes in economic conditions.

Bradesco regularly monitors various segments of its credit portfolio to assess potential concentration risks and to obtain collateral when deemed necessary. The Credit Department and Committees is significantly involved in the credit approval and review process, and risk levels are adjusted as needed to reflect management’s risk tolerance.

Market Risk

Market risk is linked to the possibility of loss due to rate fluctuations relating to unhedged terms, currencies and indices in the Company’s portfolio. The Company seeks to maintain a conservative policy with respect to exposure to market risks. The observance of the VAR (Value at Risk) limits set by senior management is monitored daily by an area that is independent from portfolio management. The models use volatilities and correlations that are calculated using statistical bases. These models are used in processes applied prospectively, in accordance with economic studies. The methodology applied and existing statistical models are validated daily using “backtesting” techniques.

Additionally, a daily “Gap Analysis” is undertaken, which measures the effect on the portfolio of changes in the internal interest rate curve and foreign exchange coupon curve (difference in interest paid over and above the foreign exchange variation). In addition to the monitoring, control and management of market risks, in compliance with Central Bank Regulations, the value at risk of fixed rate and foreign exchange positions of the Company’s total portfolio, as well as the resulting capital requirement, is verified daily. Our analysis covers all financial assets and liabilities held in treasury, including our derivative instruments.

Liquidity Risk

Liquidity risk management is designed to control risk relating to the different unhedged settlement terms of the Company’s rights and obligations. Knowledge and monitoring of this risk are crucial to enable the Company to settle transactions in a timely and secure manner. At Bradesco, liquidity risk management involves a set of controls, principally relating to the establishment of technical limits, and the positions assumed are constantly evaluated.

(b) Derivatives

We enter into financial derivative instruments contracts with various counterparties to manage our overall exposures as well as to assist customers in managing their exposures. Such derivatives are summarized as follows:

F- 53

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

     
    Notional amounts    Fair value 
     
    December 31,    December 31, 
     
    2007    2008    2007    2008 
         
Interest rate futures contracts:                 
   Purchases    5,078    39,349     
   Sales    33,277    16,814     
Foreign currency futures contracts:                 
   Purchases    6,212    4,308     
   Sales    14,196    17,905     
Futures contracts – others:                 
   Purchases    59    28     
   Sales    25    10     
Interest rate option contracts:                 
   Purchases    3,380    2,949    31    39 
   Sales    2,916    4,216    (31)   (52)
Foreign currency option contracts:                 
   Purchases    1,149    2,341      395 
   Sales    1,947    2,497    (6)   (283)
Option contracts - others:                 
   Purchases    322    949    47    14 
   Sales    862    2,320    (105)   (345)
Foreign currency forward contracts:                 
   Purchases    1,658    9,811    34    601 
   Sales    1,680    2,437    (154)   (222)
Forward contracts - others:                 
   Purchases    97      109   
   Sales    97      (97)  
Swap contracts:                 
   Asset Position:                 
       Interest rate swaps    13,660    8,546    857    278 
       Currency swaps    19,096    12,934    55    1,060 
   Liability Position:                 
       Interest rate swaps    8,090    8,023    (402)   (319)
       Currency swaps    24,348    13,273    (157)   (820)

Interest rate, currency and cross-currency interest rate swaps are contracts in which a series of interest rate cash flows of a single currency or interest or principal payments in two different currencies are exchanged for a contractual period. The notional amount represents the basis on which the cash flows are determined. The risks associated with swaps relate to the potential inability or unwillingness of the counterparties to perform according to the contractual terms and the risk associated with changes in market conditions due to changes in interest rates and the exchange rate of currencies. The total credit exposure associated with interest rate and currency swaps was R$1,134 and R$2,387 at December 31, 2007 and 2008, respectively.

Interest rate and currency futures and interest rate forwards are contracts for the delayed delivery of an instrument at a specified price or yield. The notional amounts represent the face value of the underlying instrument for which daily cash settlements of the price changes are made. The credit risk associated with futures contracts is minimized due to daily cash settlements. Futures contracts are also subject to the risk of changes in interest rates or the value of the underlying instruments.

(c) Credit Derivatives

Credit derivatives are financial instruments whose value is derived from the credit risk associated with the debt of a third party issuer (the reference entity) and which allow one party (the protection purchaser) to transfer that risk to another party (the protection seller). Credit derivatives expose the protection purchaser to the creditworthiness of the protection seller, as the protection seller is required to make payments under the contract when the reference entity experiences a credit event. Credit events generally include bankruptcy of the referenced credit entity, failure to pay under the obligation, acceleration of indebtedness and payment repudiation or moratorium, as well as any type of change in ownership or organizational restructuring. The seller of credit protection receives a premium for providing protection, but has the risk that the underlying instrument referenced in the contract will be subjected to a credit event.

F- 54

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

The following table summarizes the notional and fair value amounts of credit derivatives as of December 31st, 2008, where Bradesco is the seller of the protection. The maturity profile presents the years to maturity based upon the remaining contractual maturity of the credit derivative contracts. The ratings profile is based on the rating of the reference entity on which the credit derivative contract is based. The ratings and maturity profile of protection purchased is comparable to the profile reflected below.

Protection sold - credit derivatives ratings / maturity profile

December 31, 2008    < 1 year    1-5 year    > 5 year    Maximum 
Payout/ 
Notional 
  Fair 
value 
         
Risk rating of reference entity                     
• Investment grade (AAA to BBB-) (a)   2,019    10,700    245    12,964    (412)
• Noninvestment grade (BB+ and below) (a)   74    12      86    (2)
 
           
Total    2,093    10,712    245    13,050    (414)
           

(a) Rating scale is based upon the ratings granted to the reference entities by Standard & Poors.

During the period there was no occurrence of a credit event related to triggering events provided for in the contracts.

(d) Off-balance sheet credit instruments

As part of our lending operations, we enter into various off-balance sheet credit instruments with our customers which are summarized as follows:

    Contractual amounts 
   
    December 31, 
   
    2007    2008 
     
Commitments to extend credit including credit cards    54,253    65,016 
Financial guarantees    24,296    33,879 
Other letters of credit    361    1,242 

Unfunded commitments to extend credit including credit cards are contracts for a specified time period and at variable rates to lend to a customer who has complied with predetermined contractual conditions. The guarantees are conditional commitments issued by us to assure the performance of a customer to a third party in borrowing arrangements.

The maximum potential credit risk on undrawn commitments, standby and commercial letters of credit is equal to the contractual amounts shown above if the counterparty does not perform under the contract. Generally, these contracts expire without being drawn upon; therefore, the contractual amounts are not indicative of the actual credit exposure or future cash flow requirements for such commitments. The fair value of the obligation undertaken in issuing the guarantee at inception is typically equal to the net present value of the future amount of premium receivable under the contract. To mitigate credit risk, we may require the counterparty to pledge collateral in the form of cash, securities or other assets to support the extension of credit similar to the collateral required for our lending operations.

(e) Financial guarantees

F- 55

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

The following is a summary of the carrying values for the financial guarantees and other letters of credit, mentioned before:

    December 31, 
   
    2007    2008 
     
    Maximum 
payout/ 
Notional 
  Carrying 
value 
  Maximum 
payout/ 
Notional 
  Carrying 
value 
         
Financial guarantees    24,296    74    33,879    83 
Other letters of credit    361      1,242   

The carrying value includes amounts deferred and to be recognized in income over the life of the contract and amounts accrued for inherent losses in accordance with SFAS 5, “Accounting for Contingencies” and FIN 45.

Financial guarantees are conditional loan commitments issued by us to guarantee the performance of a particular customer in relation to a third party. In general, we are guaranteed the right of return against the customer to recover any amounts paid under these guarantees. In addition, we may retain amounts in cash or other highly liquid guarantees to secure the commitments.

The contracts are subject to the same credit rating process used to grant other credits.

Standby letters of credit are primarily issued to support public and private borrowing arrangements, including commercial paper, bond financing and similar transactions. Standby letters of credit are subject to management's credit evaluation of the customer.

Letters of credit are conditional commitments issued by us to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party. We issue commercial letters of credit to facilitate foreign trade transactions. These instruments are short-term commitments to pay a third-party beneficiary under certain contractual conditions for the shipments of goods. The contracts are subject to the same credit evaluations as other extensions of credit.

24. Commitments and Contingencies

(a) Assets under management

We manage a number of assets and customer portfolios that are available to institutional investors and the general public. These assets are not included in our consolidated balance sheet. Fees are generally charged monthly, representing approximately 0.92% (2007 – 0.88%) per annum of the market value of the assets under management.

(b) Litigation

In the normal course of business, we are involved in various legal proceedings arising out of our operations. We are subject to challenges from tax authorities regarding amounts of tax due. These challenges may alter the timing or amount of taxable income or deductions, or the allocation of income among tax jurisdictions. The probable losses recognized in our consolidated financial statements are related to litigation matters related to (i) inflation adjustments and (ii) legality of certain taxes and contributions.

The remaining litigation matters, considered as possible under our judgment based on information available, are related to tax assessments in the amount of R$134 as of December 31, 2008 (R$161 in 2007), which we believe are inconsistent with existing law and, therefore, are not recognized in our consolidated financial statements. Resolution of these issues is not expected to have a significant impact on our financial position or results of operations.

Like many other Brazilian banks, we are defendants in various labor suits by employees. These suits are related to compensation and indemnification for employees who have been laid off as a result of our recent acquisitions of financial institutions and their integration into our structure. Management continually monitors and evaluates the impact of current events and circumstances on the estimates and assumptions used in the recognition of probable losses.

F- 56

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

We also face a number of civil matters, which primarily consist of claims for pecuniary damages, such as (i) to collect on unpaid financial instruments, (ii) in relation to returned checks; (iii) in reporting adverse claims arising from credit information to credit reporting agencies and (iv) replacement of inflation rates excluded as a result of economic plans. None of these claims is individually significant.

The other labor suits and civil matters, to which we are a party, are subject to many uncertainties and the outcome of any individual matter is not predictable with assurance. Although the final resolution of any such matters could have a material effect on the consolidated operating results for a particular reporting period, we believe that it would not materially affect our consolidated financial position.

The changes in the provision during the periods were as follows:

    Year ended December 31, 
   
Tax litigation    2006    2007 (1)   2008 (1)
       
At beginning of year    3,540    5,046    6,272 
Business combinations    275    160   
Indexation charges    509    387    438 
Provisions    815    1,009    819 
Reversal    (51)   (305)   (477)
Payments    (42)   (25)   (141)
       
At end of the year    5,046    6,272    6,911 
       

(1) Includes the total amounts of R$ 2,977 and R$ 3,229 related to liabilities of unrecognized tax benefits recognized at December 31, 2007 and 2008, respectively. See note 16.

    Year ended December 31, 
   
Labor litigation    2006    2007    2008 
       
At beginning of year    814    1,259    1,474 
Business combinations    190     
Provisions    726    705    545 
Reversal    (50)   (33)   (53)
Payments    (421)   (462)   (432)
       
At end of the year    1,259    1,474    1,537 
       
 
    Year ended December 31, 
   
Civil litigation    2006    2007    2008 
       
At beginning of year    506    820    1,345 
Business combinations    153    47   
Provisions    427    784    753 
Reversal.    (61)   (143)   (178)
Payments    (205)   (163)   (400)
       
At end of the year    820    1,345    1,520 
       
Total provision    7,125    9,091    9,968 
       

25. Regulatory Matters

The Bank is subject to regulation by the Central Bank, which issues directions and instructions regarding currency and credit policies for financial institutions operating in Brazil. The Central Bank also determines minimum capital requirements, fixed asset limits, lending limits, accounting practices and compulsory deposit requirements, and requires banks to comply with regulations, based on the Basel Accord as regards capital adequacy.

F- 57

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

The Basel Accord requires banks to have a ratio of capital to risk-weighted assets of a minimum of 8%. At least half of total capital must consist of Tier I Capital. Tier I, or core capital, includes equity capital less certain intangibles. Tier II Capital includes, subject to certain limitations, asset revaluation reserves, general loan loss reserves and subordinated debt, and is limited to the amount of Tier I Capital.

However, Brazilian banking regulations: (i) require a minimum capital ratio of 11%, (ii) do not permit general loan loss reserves to be considered as Capital, (iii) specify different risk-weighted categories, and (iv) impose a deduction from Capital corresponding to possible excess in fixed assets over the limits imposed by the Central Bank.

The following table sets forth our required capital ratios (in percentages) based on the Brazilian GAAP financial statements.

    December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
In accordance with the Basel Accord applicable to Brazil             
   Tier I Capital    11.58%    10.24%    12.94% 
   Tier II Capital    4.90    3.73    3.15 
       
 
Total Capital    16.48    13.97    16.09 
       
 
Minimum required by Brazilian Central Bank    11.00%    11.00%    11.00% 

Currently, the Central Bank does not limit the amount of dividends that may be paid subject to the capital requirements set forth above. As of each reporting date, we were in compliance with all capital requirements imposed by the Central Bank.

26. Segment Information

We operate primarily in the banking, insurance, pension plan and certificated savings plans business. Banking operations include retail and corporate banking, leasing, international banking, private banking and investment banking activities. We carry out our banking operations through our own operations located in Brazil, foreign branches and majority-owned subsidiaries as well as equity investments in other companies. Additionally, we engage in insurance, pension plan and certificated savings plans activities through our majority-owned subsidiary, Bradesco Seguros S.A. and its affiliates.

The following segment information was compiled based on reports used by Senior Management to evaluate the segment performance and make decisions as to the allocation of resources for investment and other purposes. Our Senior Management uses a variety of information for such purposes including financial and non-financial information measured on different bases. In accordance with SFAS 131 “Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information,” the information included below has been compiled from that prepared on the basis which is most consistent with that used in measuring the amounts included in the financial statements in accordance with Brazilian GAAP.

Principal segment assumptions for revenues and expenses include: (i) cash surpluses generated by the insurance. pension plan and certificated savings plans segment are retained by that segment resulting in an increased net interest income, (ii) salaries and benefits and administrative costs included within the insurance, pension plan and certificated savings plans segment consist of only costs directly related to those operations, and (iii) costs incurred in the Banking segment relating to branch network infrastructure and other overheads are not allocated.

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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

    Year ended December 31, 2006 
   
    Banking    Insurance. 
pension plan and 
certificated 
savings plans 
  Other operations, 
adjustments, 
reclassifications 
and eliminations 
  U.S. GAAP 
consolidated 
         
 
Interest income    27,771    6,476    24    34,271 
Interest expense    (13,039)     170    (12,869)
         
Net interest income    14,732    6,476    194    21,402 
         
Provision for loan losses    (3,770)       (3,767)
Insurance premiums      11,212    (3,091)   8,121 
Pension plan income      2,650    (1,859)   791 
Certificated saving plans      1,418    (1,418)  
Equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated companies    296    106    (178)   224 
Other income    9,243    1,258    216    10,717 
Salaries and benefits    (5,543)   (504)   (40)   (6,087)
Administrative expenses    (4,962)   (498)   237    (5,223)
Insurance claims      (7,347)   1,223    (6,124)
Changes in provisions related to insurance, pension plan, certificated savings plans and pension investment contracts      (7,904)   3,705    (4,199)
Pension plan operating expenses      (2,164)   1,604    (560)
Insurance and pension plan selling expenses      (1,140)   288    (852)
Other expense    (4,761)   (651)   (281)   (5,693)
         
 
Income before income taxes and minority interest    5,235    2,912    603    8,750 
         
 
Identifiable assets    206,349    61,021    (8,099)   259,271 
         

F- 59

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

    Year ended December 31, 2007 
   
    Banking    Insurance. 
pension plan and 
certificated 
savings plans 
  Other operations, 
adjustments, 
reclassifications 
and eliminations 
  U.S. GAAP 
consolidated 
         
 
Interest income    30,000    6,577    (68)   36,509 
Interest expense    (12,901)     163    (12,738)
         
Net interest income    17,099    6,577    95    23,771 
         
Provision for loan losses    (4,617)       (4,616)
Insurance premiums      12,556    (3,713)   8,843 
Pension plan income      2,447    (1,892)   555 
Certificated saving plans      1,556    (1,556)  
Equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated companies    434    79    (106)   407 
Other income    12,777    1,948    (649)   14,076 
Salaries and benefits    (6,105)   (510)   (154)   (6,769)
Administrative expenses    (5,846)   (581)   191    (6,236)
Insurance claims      (7,391)   1,379    (6,012)
Changes in provisions related to insurance, pension plan, certificated savings plans and pension investment contracts      (9,661)   4,680    (4,981)
Pension plan operating expenses      (2,037)   1,559    (478)
Insurance and pension plan selling expenses      (1,247)   90    (1,157)
Other expense    (7,511)   (265)   1,670    (6,106)
         
 
Income before income taxes and minority                 
interest    6,231    3,471    1,595    11,297 
         
 
Identifiable assets    275,081    72,449    (13,021)   334,509 
         

F- 60

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

    Year ended December 31, 2008 
   
    Banking    Insurance. pension 
plan and 
certificated savings 
plans 
  Other operations, 
adjustments, 
reclassifications 
and eliminations 
  U.S. GAAP 
consolidated 
         
 
Interest income    48,067    6,295    (559)   53,803 
Interest expense    (28,882)     450    (28,432)
         
Net interest income    19,185    6,295    (109)   25,371 
         
Provision for loan losses    (6,651)       (6,651)
Insurance premiums      18,839    (7,876)   10,963 
Pension plan income      2,426    (1,716)   710 
Certificated saving plans      1,700    (1,700)  
Equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated                 
companies    565    162    (130)   597 
Other income    9,851    1,231    143    11,225 
Salaries and benefits    (6,147)   (570)   (163)   (6,880)
Administrative expenses    (6,964)   (682)   358    (7,288)
Insurance claims      (8,857)   1,466    (7,391)
Changes in provisions related to insurance,               
pension plan, certificated savings plans and                 
pension investment contracts        (14,540)   10,315    (4,225)
Pension plan operating expenses      (1)   (481)   (482)
Insurance and pension plan selling expenses      (1,170)   156    (1,014)
Other expense    (6,127)   (649)   (1,411)   (8,187)
         
 
Income before income taxes and minority                 
interest    3,712    4,184    (1,148)   6,748 
         
 
Identifiable assets    384,463    68,904    (18,077)   435,290 
         

Adjustments to U.S. GAAP relate principally to: 

Our operations are primarily carried out in Brazil. Additionally, on December 31, 2008 we had a branch in New York, three branches in Grand Cayman and one in Nassau, Bahamas, mainly to complement our banking and advisory services relating to import and export activities with Brazilian customers. Furthermore, we also have the following foreign subsidiaries: Banco Bradesco Argentina S.A. (Buenos Aires), Banco Bradesco Luxemburgo (Luxembourg), Bradesco Securities. Inc. (New York), Bradesco Securities UK Limited (London), Bradesco Services Co Ltd. (Tokyo), Cidade Capital Markets Ltd. (Grand Cayman) and Bradesco Trade Services Limited (Hong Kong). 

27. Pension Plans 

F- 61

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements 


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

We sponsor defined-benefit pension plans, which supplement benefits that the Brazilian government social security system provides to employees of Bradesco and its Brazilian subsidiaries. The pension plans were established solely for the benefit of eligible employees and directors, and their assets are held independently of Bradesco. During 2001, participants of the defined benefit plan for Bradesco employees joined a new defined contribution plan (PGBL). Our plan for the year ended December 31, 2004 and 2006 includes BEM and BEC defined benefit pension plans as a result of their acquisitions on February 10, 2004 and January 3, 2006, respectively. Our contributions to the PGBL plan in 2008 totaled R$269 (2007 – R$340).

Our policy is to fund the pension plans through contributions based on payroll, adjusted periodically pursuant to recommendations of the Fund’s external actuary. At December 31, 2008 our contribution represents 3.9% (2007 – 5.0% and 2006 – 5.2%) of payroll, and employees and directors contribute amounts of at least 4% (2007 – 4% and 2006 – 4%) of their salaries.

The pension plan’s assets are mainly invested in government and private securities, marketable equity securities and properties.

Employees and directors who withdraw from the pension plans for any reason receive the minimum benefit based on past contributions in a single lump sum installment.

BEC, BEM and Banco Alvorada plans are measured annually.

As discussed in Note 2(t), in September 2006 the FASB issued SFAS Nº 158. This statement requires an employer on a prospective basis to recognize the overfunded or underfunded status of its defined benefit pension and postretirement plans as an asset or liability in its statement of financial position and to recognize changes in that funded status in the year in which the changes occur through comprehensive income. We adopted this requirement, along with the required disclosures, on December 31, 2006. The effects of the adoption as well as the related disclosure requirements are presented below.

The adjustments from the adoption of SFAS 158 affected our consolidated balance sheet as follows:

    Alvorada, BEM and BEC plans 
   
    Year ended 2006 
   
 
Before application of SFAS 158     
Prepaid pension cost    55 
Accrued pension liability    (65)
 
Adjustments     
Prepaid pension cost    14 
Accrued pension liability   
Deferred tax liability    (7)
Accumulated other comprehensive income    15 
 
After aplication of SFAS 158     
Prepaid pension cost    69 
Accrued pension liability    (57)
Deferred tax liability    (7)
Accumulated other comprehensive income    15 

F- 62

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

Based upon the report of the pension plan’s external actuary, changes in the benefit obligation and plan assets and the amounts recognized in the consolidated financial statements are as follows:

        Alvorada, BEM and BEC plans 
     
        Year ended 
     
        2006    2007    2008 
         
(i)   Projected benefit obligation:             
    At beginning of year    454    712    729 
    Business acquisition…    240     
    Service cost       
    Benefits paid    (38)   (58)   (58)
    Interest cost    49    70    72 
    Plan changes       
    Adjustment from date change      13   
    Actuarial loss (gain)     (13)   (58)
         
 
    At end of year    712    729    690 
         
 
(ii)   Plan assets at market value:             
    At beginning of year    486    724    807 
    Business acquisition    194     
    Contributions received:             
    Employer       
    Employees       
    Current return on plan assets    79    123    41 
    Adjustment from date change      12   
    Benefits paid    (38)   (58)   (58)
         
 
    At end of year    724    807    798 
         
 
(iii)   Funded status:             
    Excess of plan assets over projected benefit             
    obligation acquired    (12)   (79)   (109)
    Amounts recognized in the             
         balance sheet, net    (12)   (79)   (109)
         

Net pension (benefit) cost includes the following components:

    Alvorada, BEM and BEC plans 
   
    Year ended 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
 
Projected benefit obligation:             
Service cost       
Interest cost    70    72    79 
Amortization of prior service cost      (3)   (6)
Expected return on assets    (72)   (81)   (92)
Expected participant contribution    (2)   (1)   (1)
       
 
Net periodic pension cost (benefit)   2    (8)   (16)
       

Prepaid pension costs and accrued pension liabilities are included in “Other assets” and “Other liabilities” respectively, in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.

F- 63

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

The amounts recognized in our balance sheets are as follows:

    Em 31 de dezembro de 
   
    2007    2008 
     
Assets         
Prepaid pension cost    102    125 
Liabilities         
Accrued pension liability    23    16 
Net asset recognized, end of year    79    109 

The amount recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income, which totaled R$ 58 at December 31, 2007 and R$ 61 at December 31, 2008, net of taxes, as a result of the implementation of SFAS 158, relates to actuarial gains.

Assumptions used to determine our benefit obligation and net periodic benefit cost at and for the years ended October 31, 2007 and December 31, 2008 were (1):

     Alvorada plan    BEM plan    BEC plan 
       
    2007    2008    2007    2008    2007    2008 
             
Assumed discount rate    10.2%    11.9%    10.2%    11.9%    10.2%    11.9% 
Expected long-term rate of return on assets    10.2    11.9    10.2    11.9    10.2    11.9 
Rate of increase in compensation levels     7.1%     7.1%     7.1%     7.1%     7.1%    7.1% 

(1) Including a 4.0% p.a. inflation rate and an actual discount rate of 6.0% p.a.

The rationale behind the used long-term rate of return on plan assets is the following:

Our pension plan weighted-average asset allocations in 2007 and 2008, by asset category are as follows:

    Alvorada plan assets    BEM plan assets    BEC plan assets 
       
    2007    2008     2007    2008    2007    2008 
             
Asset categories                         
Equity securities    0.4%    0.3%    4.7%    5.1%    0.0%    0.0% 
Debt securities    94.4    94.3    92.1    91.1    90.8    91.1 
Real estate    3.5    3.6    0.2    0.0    5.7    5.2 
Other    1.7    1.8    3.0    3.8    3.5    3.7 
             
Total    100.0%    100.0%    100.0%    100.0%    100.0%    100.0% 
             

The benefit payments, which reflect expected future services projected, to be made by us are:

F- 64

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated

For the year ended December 31,    Pension plan benefits 
   
2009    60 
2010    59 
2011    61 
2012    64 
2013    67 
2014 - 2018    418 
   
Total    729 
   

The contributions related to the private pension plans of Alvorada, BEM and BEC, to be made by us in 2009, are estimated at R$0.4, R$1.5 and R$4.1, respectively.

28. Related Party Transactions

Bradesco has Cidade de Deus Companhia Comercial de Participações and Fundação Bradesco as primary shareholders. Fundação Bradesco is a not-for-profit trust that for over 40 years has been promoting and developing the potential of children and young people through schools maintained in underprivileged areas.

We have made no loans to our officers or directors, since this practice is prohibited for all Brazilian banks by the Central Bank.

Transactions with primary shareholders and direct and indirect affiliates (mainly represented by CPM Braxis S.A. and Cia. Brasileira de Meios de Pagamento –Visanet), are conducted in similar conditions to those used when making transactions with third-parties, which are effective as of the date of the operations as follows.

    December 31, 
   
    2006    2007    2008 
       
ASSETS             
Dividends receivable      16   
Other assets    213    110   
 
LIABILITIES             
Demand deposits    47    11    15 
Time deposits    261    120    75 
Debentures    444    582    248 
Interest on shareholders’ capital and dividends    23    607    687 
Subordinated notes    460    845    106 
Other liabilities    23    541   
 
INCOME AND EXPENSES             
Income on securities    22    24   
Other income    30    40    12 
Interest on long-term debt    108    228    69 
Other expenses    332    240    105 

29. Subsequent Events

On March 10, 2009, the Special Shareholders’ Meeting approved the reverse split of common and preferred shares of our capital stock in the proportion of fifty (50) to one (1), with simultaneous split for each share, after they are grouped in the proportion of one (1) to fifty (50), respecting the respective type of shares. Also the Special Shareholders’ Meeting approved the payment of the interest on shareholders' capital and dividends in the total amount of R$ 2,692 related to 2008.

F- 65

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements


Banco Bradesco S.A. 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 
Expressed in millions of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise stated 

On June 4, 2009, we entered into a “Private Instrument of Share Merger Agreement and Other Covenants”, with the controlling shareholders of Banco ibi S.A. - Banco Múltiplo (“Banco ibi”) and its controlled companies, aiming at the acquisition of the totality of its capital stock. 

The transaction was valued approximately in R$1.4 billion, which will be adjusted and paid upon the delivery, to the shareholders of Banco ibi, of shares issued by Bradesco representing, on this date, approximately 1.6% of its capital stock, converting ibi Companies into wholly-owned subsidiaries of Bradesco. 

The Bank, through its subsidiaries, is one of the participating shareholders in the offering of 477,674,330 common shares (representing 35% of the capital stock) of Companhia Brasileira de Meios de Pagamento, or “VisaNet” to: (i) the public in Brazil pursuant to an offering registered in Brazil; (ii) qualified institutional buyers in the United States, as defined in Rule 144A, pursuant to exemptions from registration under the Securities Act and the rules thereunder; and (iii) non-U.S. institutional investors and other investors outside the United States and Brazil in accordance with Regulation S under the Securities Act. As of June 29, 2009 this offering was in the process of finalization.

*          *          * 

F- 66

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements