Brazilian authorities have detained Daniel Vorcaro, owner of the now-defunct lender Banco Master, as part of a widening investigation into alleged corruption, threats, and fraudulent banking practices. The detention follows a Supreme Court ruling citing a “strong indication” that Vorcaro attempted to bribe a former central bank director with gifts in exchange for preferential treatment.
Vorcaro was first arrested in November 2025 amid a probe into the alleged issuance of fraudulent credit securities by Banco Master, but was later released with an electronic ankle monitor. The latest detention is based on new evidence collected by federal police, including text messages in which Vorcaro allegedly suggested plans to assault a journalist.
Arrest warrants were also issued for Paulo Sergio Neves de Souza, former central bank supervision director, and Belline Santana, former head of the bank’s supervision department. Both were ordered to wear ankle monitors and had stepped down earlier this year during an internal central bank investigation. According to Brazil’s central bank, its internal review found that two unnamed Banco Master employees received improper advantages, leading to their suspension, and reported the suspected criminal activity to federal authorities.
Banco Master, which held less than 1% of Brazil’s banking assets, was liquidated in November 2025 due to severe liquidity issues, rapid financial deterioration, and serious regulatory violations. The liquidation coincided with the police operation that initially led to Vorcaro’s arrest.
Federal police stated that the ongoing investigation targets threats, corruption, money laundering, and illegal computer system access allegedly carried out by a “criminal organization.” According to the court, Neves de Souza and Santana advised Vorcaro during their time at the central bank, including guidance on meetings with the institution’s president and reviewing documents the lender intended to submit to regulators.
Judge Andre Mendonca highlighted evidence suggesting Vorcaro attempted to unduly influence Neves de Souza through gifts, including travel guides for a planned trip to Orlando, Florida. The ruling also alleges that Vorcaro hired Luiz Phillipi Mourao to coordinate surveillance and monitor perceived adversaries. Police reported that Mourao attempted suicide while in custody.
Text messages obtained during the investigation show Vorcaro allegedly instructing the associate to assault a journalist, identified by O Globo as columnist Lauro Jardim. O Globo condemned the threats, while Vorcaro’s press office stated that the messages were taken out of context and that he never intended to intimidate or threaten journalists.
The case underscores concerns over potential misconduct involving top financial regulators, the misuse of private banking institutions, and the intersection of corporate and political influence in Brazil’s financial system.