Brazil – Wikipedia, the free encyclopediaThe Brazilian economy is the world’s seventh largest by nominal GDP and the seventh largest by purchasing power parity, as of 2012. A member of the BRIC group, Brazil has one of the world’s fastest growing major economies, and its economic reforms have given the country new international recognition and influence. Brazil’s national development bank ( BNDES) plays an important role for the country’s economic growth. It mostly depends on its own money and invests in big local firms. The bank’s goal is to promote economic growth as well as to preserve the environment and protection of local communities. Brazil is a founding member of the United Nations, the G20, CPLP, Latin Union, the Organization of Ibero-American States, the Organization of American States, Mercosul and the Union of South American Nations. Brazil is one of 17 megadiverse countries, home to a variety of wildlife, natural environments, and extensive natural resources in a variety of protected habitats. Brazil is considered a middle power in international affairs, and has been identified as an emerging power.