Brazil freezes bank account of Elon Musk's Starlink company

The decision reflects tensions between billionaire Musk's social network X and the Brazilian government. The decision was made by Judge Alexandre de Moraes, after X failed to meet a deadline to appoint legal representatives in Brazil.

Billionaire Elon Musk. Photo: Reuters

The standoff between Musk and Brazil's Supreme Court began when X refused to block accounts accused of spreading fake news and misinformation, mostly from supporters of far-right former President Jair Bolsonaro.

Judge Moraes ordered X to comply and appoint legal representation in Brazil by 8 p.m. Thursday, August 29 (local time), or face a shutdown order.

Under Brazilian law, all tech companies must have a legal representative in the country to receive judicial orders and be held legally responsible for the business. In a post on X, Musk criticized the decision to freeze Starlink’s account, saying it would hurt other shareholders and the Brazilian people.

Observers say the legal situation could cost X one of its largest and most promising markets. X previously announced it would close operations and lay off staff in Brazil due to “censorship orders” from Judge Moraes, but it will keep the service available to Brazilian users.

The final decision of the Brazilian Supreme Court has not yet been officially announced, but it could have a major impact on the future of X in the country's market.

Cao Phong (according to Reuters)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/brazil-dong-bang-tai-khoan-ngan-hang-cong-ty-starlink-cua-elon-musk-post309961.html