In America they don't know what it is, and the same is true for many other countries. But in Japan (under another name) and in Brazil the thirteenth is a windfall for Christmas expenses. In the case of Brazil, however, according to a very recent launch of the 'Rio Times', the combination of thirteenth salary and government spending incentives risks becoming a burden on family finances, burdened by debts. Brazil's 'new middle class' – it would be too much to call them the 'new rich' – has not yet learned to manage their finances, according to the Seriasa Experian Consultancy: they buy on impulse, and then realize they can't pay the installments.
However, the incentives (low rates and reduced taxes on cars and appliances) seem to be working. Exhibitors expect a 9-10% increase in Christmas sales compared to last year. And the Brazilian economy, which had slowed sharply, needs some boost. Even at the price of greater debt…
http://riotimesonline.com/brazil-news/rio-business/record-christmas-sales-and-debt-in-brazil/
