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  • Silent mistakes in preparing for Tax Reform could prove costly for companies, warns expert

    The transition to Brazil's new tax collection model is moving forward at a rapid pace, but a risky behavior is beginning to concern specialists: many companies still treat Tax Reform as a simple bureaucratic update, limited to accounting offices. Photo Disclosure Press According to Eduardo Dias, a specialist in tax management and consultative accounting, and CEO of Alldax Accounting and Consulting, this fragmented view overlooks a transformation that will directly affect corporate governance, competitiveness, and operational sustainability. The regulatory landscape became more concrete with the publication of Decree No. 12,955 in April this year, moving the discussion into a practical phase. Although the test rates introduced in 2026 may create a sense of reassurance, the timeline establishes August 1, 2026, as the starting point for penalties related to noncompliance with IBS and CBS ancillary obligations. This new phase requires the immediate adaptation of systems, a review of internal processes, and greater integration among the different areas of companies. In practice, the impact is expected to be more significant for companies under the Simples Nacional tax regime and for labor-intensive sectors. Since payroll expenses do not generate tax credits, many businesses may need to recalculate costs, margins, and commercial models in order to remain competitive. The new rules may also change corporate purchasing behavior, as companies are likely to prioritize suppliers that offer better opportunities to claim tax credits throughout the production chain. “The biggest mistake I see is treating Tax Reform as an issue that concerns accounting alone. In reality, it changes the financial, operational, and strategic dynamics of companies. Those who fail to understand this now may pay a high price in the years ahead,” warns Eduardo Dias. Photo Disclosure Press One of the main points of attention lies in the impact on cash flow. The introduction of new tax collection mechanisms may reduce the amount of resources that previously remained available in companies' accounts, requiring stricter cash flow management and more careful working capital planning. “Business owners often focus only on the tax itself, when the real impact may appear in cash flow, pricing strategies, systems integration, and even the company's competitiveness,” explains the specialist. According to Eduardo Dias, companies with a high volume of transactions need to assess now whether there will be a need to strengthen their working capital. “Those who postpone this analysis until the system is fully operational may find themselves relying on bank credit under less favorable conditions,” he says. The modernization of the tax system will also require greater integration between management systems, payment methods, financial platforms, and electronic tax document issuance. Operational failures or incompatibilities in data transmission could compromise the use of tax credits and reduce business profitability. In addition to technological adjustments, the specialist argues that Tax Reform should be accompanied by a multidisciplinary structure within organizations. “If I could give business owners just one piece of advice, it would be to create a permanent Tax Reform committee. This transformation involves finance, operations, technology, legal, accounting, and leadership,” he recommends. According to him, companies that manage this transition in an organized manner will have a better chance of reducing risks, identifying opportunities, and adapting ahead of their competitors. “Those who wait for the final implementation will have fewer alternatives, higher costs, and much less room to correct their course,” concludes Eduardo Dias.

  • Aretha Alves Shares Her Entrepreneurial Journey and Celebrates the Global Success of AA Connect

    Entrepreneurship requires vision, strategy, and the courage to turn challenges into opportunities. This journey defines the story of Rio de Janeiro-born entrepreneur Aretha Alves, who has been establishing her name on the international stage through AA Connect, an agency recognized for connecting brands, talents, and business opportunities across global markets. Photo Disclosure Press Born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Aretha built her career on the belief that meaningful relationships and strategic communication are the foundation of sustainable success. What began as a single insight has evolved into a solid business model that connects companies, influencers, artists, and entrepreneurs with projects that have international reach. As the founder and CEO of AA Connect, Aretha is celebrating a period of remarkable growth and recognition, reinforcing the agency’s position as a leader in strategic networking, brand management, partnership development, and the creation of opportunities that transcend borders. Photo Disclosure Press “Entrepreneurship has never been just about starting a business. It has always been about building bridges between people, ideas, and opportunities. AA Connect was born from that purpose, and today I am proud to see this vision expanding into different markets around the world,” says Aretha. The agency’s success reflects a management approach focused on innovation, strategic planning, and the cultivation of long-lasting relationships. Over the years, AA Connect has expanded its international presence, participating in projects that strengthen brands and create valuable connections in an increasingly globalized business environment. Photo Disclosure Press Beyond the company’s growth, Aretha has also become an inspiration for women pursuing entrepreneurship. Her story demonstrates how female leadership, creativity, and determination can open doors in highly competitive industries. According to Aretha, success is never achieved overnight but is built through discipline, consistency, and the ability to recognize opportunities where others see obstacles. “The impact we strive to create goes far beyond numbers. Our greatest achievement is building meaningful connections, delivering value to our clients, and helping businesses and professionals reach new international markets,” she explains. Looking ahead, Aretha Alves remains focused on expanding AA Connect’s global footprint by investing in innovation, technology, and the continuous growth of its international network, further strengthening the company’s position in the global marketplace. Photo Disclosure Press Her entrepreneurial journey demonstrates that outstanding businesses are built on well-executed ideas and leadership driven by purpose and results. Today, AA Connect represents more than a growing agency—it has become a strategic ecosystem that empowers brands and professionals to thrive on the international stage. In an increasingly competitive world, Aretha Alves continues to transform networking into tangible opportunities, reinforcing her reputation as one of Brazil’s rising entrepreneurs making a lasting impact beyond national borders.

  • Rhythm in Motion: When Fashion Becomes a Language of Territory, Memory, and Architecture

    'DECOR' EDITION COVER - GLOBAL ISSUE Photography: Gabriel Munhoz / Creative Direction: Gabriel Munhoz and Ana Brigida / Architecture: Guilherme Abreu / Styling: Ana Brigida and Casa de Brigida / Beauty: Murad / Model: Alexsandra Silva Fashion often speaks through silhouettes, textures, and movement. In Rhythm in Motion ("TOADA EM MOVIMENTO" In Portuguese), however, fashion expands beyond the garment to become a dialogue between body, architecture, and cultural memory. Produced during the Brazilian Architecture Biennial, the editorial explores the intersection of Northeastern independent fashion, architectural heritage, and identity through a visual narrative deeply rooted in Maranhão. (Maranhão is a northeastern Brazilian state known for its rich cultural heritage, historic architecture, vibrant traditions, and the spectacular dunes and lagoons of Lençóis Maranhenses). Set against spaces marked by history and materiality, the project transforms architecture into more than a backdrop. It becomes an active participant in the storytelling. Historic façades, stone pathways, and textured surfaces interact with garments and bodies, creating compositions where fashion inhabits space rather than merely occupying it. The editorial draws inspiration from the visual richness of Maranhão, a region where European, African, and Indigenous influences coexist and continue to shape contemporary artistic expression. Within this landscape, fashion emerges not simply as an aesthetic gesture but as an extension of collective memory, tradition, and belonging. Natural light, handcrafted details, and tactile materials establish the visual rhythm of the images. Fluid silhouettes and translucent fabrics echo the movement of the dunes of the Lençóis Maranhenses, while warm tones and organic textures reinforce the connection between clothing and territory. The result is a visual language that feels simultaneously architectural and deeply human. Another important layer of the editorial is its dialogue with the symbolic universe of Bumba Meu Boi, one of Maranhão's most celebrated cultural manifestations. Long regarded as a meeting point between music, dance, spirituality, and storytelling, the tradition finds contemporary expression through embroidery, artisanal techniques, and vibrant chromatic compositions that appear throughout the images. Rather than reproducing folkloric references, Rhythm in Motion approaches these cultural symbols as living and evolving languages, demonstrating how heritage can continue to inspire contemporary creative practices without losing its historical significance. The decision to produce the editorial during the Brazilian Architecture Biennial further reinforces its central proposition that architecture, fashion, and culture are inseparable forms of expression. Buildings preserve memory through space in the same way clothing preserves memory through material, craftsmanship, and gesture. In this sense, the editorial becomes an exercise in translation, transforming landscapes into textures, traditions into silhouettes, and territories into visual narratives. Maranhão is not simply represented. It is interpreted through movement, light, and form. More than presenting a collection of looks, Rhythm in Motion proposes a broader reflection on the role of fashion in preserving and reimagining cultural identity. It suggests that clothing can carry stories, that architecture can shape emotion, and that landscapes can become part of the creative process itself. Ultimately, Rhythm in Motion invites viewers to consider fashion not only as an object of consumption but as a cultural archive in motion, one capable of carrying history forward while continuously reinventing its forms of expression. TEAM Photography: Gabriel Munhoz Creative Direction: Gabriel Munhoz and Ana Brigida Architecture: Guilherme Abreu Styling: Ana Brigida and Casa de Brigida Beauty: Murad Model: Alexsandra Silva FASHION CREDITS Look 1 — Brasilero (red) Look 2 — Brasilero (fringe) Look 3 — Areia, by Natália Santos Look 4 — Brasilero ACCESSORIES Malves Matrona Anna Prata Carlos Penna Kátia Costa About the Architects Credits: BAB – Brazilian Architecture Biennial Venue: Casa Pedro Neves “Roots and Transit” Guilherme Abreu and Larissa Catossi Buy the magazine printed edition by clicking below:

  • Nathana Sgobbi Walks for Franck Sorbier Haute Couture and Embodies Feminine Strength in Paris

    Photos: @laurent_photographer Brazilian model and influencer Nathana Sgobbi took part, for the second consecutive year, in the runway show of the French maison Franck Sorbier during Paris Haute Couture Week, appearing in a collection that celebrates freedom, cultural diversity, and female empowerment. On a runway where each creation embodies months of artisanal craftsmanship, Nathana Sgobbi once again represented Brazil at Paris Haute Couture Week. This Wednesday, the influencer and model walked for the second time for the house of Franck Sorbier, one of only ten designers holding the prestigious status of Official Members of French Haute Couture—the highest distinction in international fashion. More than presenting couture gowns, Sorbier transformed the Chercheuses d’ailleurs (Seekers of Elsewhere) collection into a reflection on women who cross borders to build their own identities. Inspired by the 1900 Paris Exposition Universelle, the show brought together historical, artistic, and cultural references to tell the story of travelers who discover, in every destination, a new way of seeing the world. It was this narrative that Nathana carried onto the runway. During the preparations, Sorbier encouraged the models to embody not only the garments but also the characters behind each creation. The concept of depth of soul served as the guiding principle of the presentation, inviting each appearance on the runway to reveal experiences, memories, and personal transformations. The collection traveled across cultures through the language of haute couture. Embroidery inspired by Japanese kimonos, Uzbek ikat textiles, references to the Ottoman Empire, Indian miniatures, velvets, organzas, jacquards, and artisanal techniques came together to shape a narrative that reaffirms one of the designer’s signatures: transforming fashion into an artistic expression. “Returning to this runway carried an even deeper meaning than the first time. There is a tremendous responsibility that comes with understanding the story being told and realizing that you are part of it. It wasn’t simply about presenting a look—it was about embodying a woman who carries experiences, discoveries, and transformation. It is impossible to leave this experience as the same person who entered it,” says Nathana. Her return to the French maison marks an important moment in her international career. In one of fashion’s most selective environments, where castings reflect the artistic identity of each collection, being invited back represents recognition of a consistent and evolving body of work. Beyond the runway, Nathana has also continued to expand her presence in the digital world. With nearly 100,000 followers on Instagram, she shares campaigns, editorials, travels, and behind-the-scenes moments from the fashion industry, bringing her audience closer to the creative processes that drive the world's leading fashion weeks. By walking once again for Franck Sorbier, Nathana reaffirms her place within one of the most exclusive circuits in global fashion. Her participation in Chercheuses d’ailleurs connects the Brazilian model to a collection that transformed haute couture into a celebration of curiosity, freedom, and transformation.

  • Mari Abdalla Embraces the Caramel Sun Kissed Trend to Enhance Her Image and Presence

    Photo disclosure Press Image and style consultant Mari Abdalla embraced a hair transformation that goes beyond aesthetics. Alongside hairstylist Ronan Donadon, she chose the Caramel Sun Kissed shade, considered one of the leading hair color trends of the moment, in a change carefully designed to harmonize with her skin tone and enhance her natural features. For Mari, selecting a hair color is an essential part of building a personal image. According to the specialist, the right shade can brighten the complexion, visually soften dark circles, camouflage minor imperfections, and create a healthier and more sophisticated appearance. The transformation also reinforces one of the core principles of her work: image is built through strategic choices. In this context, hair becomes more than an aesthetic element and evolves into an integral part of how individuals communicate their identity, style, and presence.

  • Jaquelline Grohalski: Authenticity as the New Language of Fashion

    Photo: @demmacedo / Beauty: @dariobion / Video: @olivervideomaker_ / Styling: @eduardomurari @diegobbueno / Studio: @openstudio For this edition, Hooks Magazine presents an exclusive fashion editorial starring Jaquelline Grohalski, one of Brazil's most recognizable digital personalities. Created in collaboration with Deconstruction, a project conceived by photographer Anderson Macedo, the editorial celebrates fashion as a space where diversity, individuality, and artistic expression come together. Guided by the belief that "Everyone Belongs in Fashion, and Art Lives in Everyone," Deconstruction transforms fashion imagery into a visual language that goes beyond aesthetics. Through striking compositions and a contemporary artistic vision, the project challenges conventional standards of beauty while celebrating identity in all its forms. After captivating audiences on reality television and building one of the country's most engaged online communities, Jaquelline continues to redefine her public image by embracing projects that unite fashion, culture, and purpose. In this editorial, she reveals a new dimension of her identity, where strength, authenticity, and artistic expression converge. More than a fashion story, this collaboration invites readers to experience style as a reflection of individuality, proving that true beauty is found in diversity, self-expression, and the courage to be unapologetically authentic.

  • Brazilian Recognized Among the Leading Real Estate Financing Specialists in the United States

    Photos Disclosure Brazilian Julio Silva, a mortgage originator leading The Julio Silva Team at CrossCountry Mortgage, has earned one of the most prestigious recognitions in the U.S. real estate financing industry. According to the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP) rankings, he was named the No. 1 Latino Mortgage Loan Officer in South Florida, No. 1 in the Orlando/Central Florida region, No. 3 in Florida, and No. 4 in the United States by loan volume. Each year, NAHREP recognizes the nation's top Latino professionals in the real estate and mortgage industries. In 2026, the professionals featured in the Top 250 Latino Mortgage Originators ranking collectively closed more than 68,900 mortgage transactions, representing approximately $25.6 billion in real estate financing. In addition to the NAHREP recognition, Julio was also honored within CrossCountry Mortgage, ranking among the company's leading Latino mortgage specialists. According to the company, he is No. 4 nationwide among Latino loan originators by funded loan volume and No. 5 in the Southeastern United States. Altogether, 22 CrossCountry Mortgage professionals were included in this year's NAHREP rankings. Another industry ranking further highlights his success in the Florida market. Published by South Florida Agent Magazine, the report names Julio Silva the Top Latino Mortgage Originator in South Florida, recognizing him for 231 closed transactions totaling approximately $135.9 million in funded mortgage loans. "This recognition represents far more than numbers. It reflects the trust that our clients, partners, real estate agents, homebuilders, attorneys, accountants, and investors place in our work every single day. Every approved mortgage represents someone's dream becoming a reality—and a tremendous responsibility for our team," says Julio Silva. Photos Disclosure With more than two decades of experience in the U.S. market, Julio specializes in mortgage financing for home purchases, real estate investments, and refinancing across the United States. As the leader of The Julio Silva Team, he serves a diverse range of clients, offering personalized strategies for individuals and investors looking to build wealth through U.S. real estate. For Julio, these achievements also bring an even greater sense of responsibility to continue raising the bar. "Receiving this recognition motivates us to keep elevating the standard of our service. Our commitment is to continue delivering smart financing solutions and helping more families and investors achieve their goals in the U.S. real estate market," he says. This achievement further highlights the growing presence of Brazilian professionals in leadership positions within the U.S. financial industry and underscores the significant role of the Latino community in one of the world's most competitive real estate markets.

  • What Is the True Essence of Marriage?

    This week, I was talking with one of my brides, who recently went through an extremely difficult health crisis involving her fiancé. It was so serious that she considered postponing the wedding, and at one point, even faced the heartbreaking possibility of losing the man she loves. Photos Disclosure Pinterest Fortunately, the situation has now been resolved, and they are both doing well. But what they experienced confronted them with one of life’s hardest truths: no matter how much we want to believe otherwise, we are not in control. They had spent months planning every detail of their wedding ceremony and reception—from choosing the perfect color palette to the smallest details, like the trim on the dinner napkins. Now, let me ask you this: at its core, why does any of that truly matter? Yes, I understand. You may have dreamed of this day since childhood, and now you finally have the chance to live it. But if we step back and look at life from a broader perspective, when your final day comes, will you be thinking about the pearl buttons on your dress—or about the first time you looked into your partner’s eyes? In those memories that surface during your last moments of clarity, will you remember the budgets you carefully prepared and the technical production rider? Or will you remember your grandmother, still alive, congratulating you on the birth of your first child? Will you think about choosing blue hydrangeas for your bouquet, or about your mother helping you get ready for your very first day of school? If we allow ourselves a moment to truly reflect, we will realize that the wedding industry often leads us to believe we need countless extras to get married—but that simply isn’t true. “Brides must have X.” “Your wedding day isn’t complete without Y.” “How could a bride possibly get married without Z?” The conversation is so often centered on details and accessories that, in reality, are not essential. What truly deserves your greatest attention on your wedding day is love—the kind that sustains you through life’s hardest moments. Friendship and companionship, so your relationship is built on mutual support and fairness. Trust, so you know you are walking through this challenging life beside someone who has your back. And a community of loved ones who offer you security, encouragement, and affection. What we all truly need to say “I do” is the desire to build a life together—a life filled with purpose, shared with someone who embraces the same values and dreams. Someone who brings lightness, comfort, and a sense of home. Someone who inspires and motivates us to become better human beings every single day. So, dear bride, I’ll leave you with one final question: If today you were to lose everything—if every wedding contract came to an end, if all the details and traditions disappeared, if the world itself were coming to an end—would you still feel that something was missing with the person standing beside you? If your answer is no, then congratulations. You have discovered the true essence of your marriage.

  • The End of the Viral Video Era? Expert Says the New Battle Online Is for a Loyal Audience

    At a time when millions of people are trying to decode the secrets of social media algorithms, content creation experts argue that the real key to growing online may lie in something far older: storytelling. Techniques long used in successful films and television series are now being adapted for the digital landscape, helping creators, entrepreneurs, and independent professionals build a more engaged and loyal audience. Photos Disclosure Press According to content creation expert and founder of the Digital Legacy Method, Jessica Quintana, people do not simply follow videos—they follow stories and the people behind them. “When I began studying the world's leading content creators, I noticed they all had something in common with the biggest streaming productions: storytelling. The best series spark curiosity, introduce conflict, showcase transformation, and create an emotional connection with their characters. Online, the same principle applies,” she says. According to Jessica, one of the biggest misconceptions among content creators is the belief that only an extraordinary life can capture people's attention. “Many people think they need to live something exceptional to create compelling content, but the real secret lies in how the story is told. Even an ordinary moment can generate identification and connection when there is a strong narrative behind it,” she explains. Jessica also believes that the poor performance of many videos is more closely related to the way the content is presented than to the algorithms themselves. “In most cases, the problem isn’t the algorithm. Social media platforms are designed to show more people the content that holds their attention. If a video fails to spark curiosity or keep viewers watching, it’s unlikely to receive wide distribution,” she says. According to the expert, another common mistake happens within the very first seconds of a video. “People often spend too much time explaining before they’ve captured any interest. The opening seconds should answer one simple question: Why should I keep watching? Starting with the most compelling part of the story and creating moments of anticipation throughout the video can make all the difference,” she explains. Jessica believes the content creation industry is also undergoing a significant shift. While many creators once focused primarily on going viral, today the real challenge is building a loyal audience. “Creators who rely solely on viral content tend to produce standalone videos. Those who build a loyal audience develop an ongoing narrative. People begin following projects, challenges, and transformations. They stop watching just for the topic and start following the person,” she concludes. In an increasingly competitive digital landscape, experts suggest that the ability to build genuine connections and sustain audience interest may prove more valuable than achieving millions of views on a single viral video.

  • GYRLE: Hair as Art, Fashion as Identity

    'FASHION' EDITION COVER - JULY 2026 ISSUE Photography: @isa_valentini / Creative Direction: @bruna_bacher / Beauty: @makeupdine_ / Styling: @georgiahoshino / Model: @_nicolysampaio_ / Photography Assistant: @gbrmunhoz For this Fashion Edition, Hooks Magazine presents GYRLE, an editorial created by creative director Bruna Bacher and photographer Isabella Valentini, placing hair at the center of a visual narrative about identity, memory, and transformation. More than an aesthetic element, hair becomes a powerful symbol of personal history, belonging, and self-expression. Through a contemporary visual language, Bruna and Isabella craft striking portraits that balance graphic precision with emotional depth, exploring shape, texture, and composition in unexpected ways. With a refined creative vision, GYRLE invites readers to see beauty as a language of its own, where every strand contributes to a story of individuality, reinvention, and strength. An editorial that moves beyond trends, celebrating fashion as a form of art, concept, and identity.

  • Skincare Beyond the Trend: Why Taking Care of Your Skin Is, Above All, Taking Care of Your Health

    Text By Dra. Beatriz Kalil In recent years, skincare has become a permanent part of the daily routine for millions of people. While many say it has "become a trend," I prefer to see this movement from a much more positive perspective: people are finally realizing that taking care of their skin means taking care of their health. Photo: @andersonmmacedo_ @demmacedo / Video: @olivervideomaker_ / Beauty: @dariobion / Styling: @eduardomurari @diegobbueno / Studio: @openstudio / Fashion Director: @evelyoliveira / Editor-In-Chief: @directorhooks The skin is the largest organ in the human body and performs essential functions for our overall health. It acts as a protective barrier against external aggressors, prevents excessive water loss, and helps maintain the integrity of the skin barrier. When we care for our skin every day, we are helping ensure that all of these functions continue to perform at their best. Contrary to what many people believe, an effective skincare routine does not have to be long or complicated. In my view, it is built on three fundamental pillars: cleansing the skin thoroughly in the morning and at night, using a moisturizer suited to your skin type, and applying sunscreen every day during the daytime. More important than the number of products you use is consistency. With a regular routine, you can achieve healthier, more balanced skin with a smoother texture and a natural, radiant glow. And healthy skin naturally reflects a more beautiful appearance. That is why I believe skincare goes far beyond aesthetics. It represents a habit of self-care and, above all, prevention. It is neither vanity nor an exaggeration—it is a daily investment in the health of your skin, an organ that will be with you for your entire life. This is the message I strive to share every day with my patients and followers: taking care of your skin is a simple act, yet one that can transform not only your skin’s health but also the way you relate to yourself. After all, when self-care becomes a habit, its benefits extend far beyond what we see in the mirror.

  • Leticia Bradshaw Ledger Celebrates Birthday at Fasano Boa Vista with a Cartier Timepiece Worth Over $150,000

    A week of celebrations, timeless style and rare moments with her husband marked Leticia Bradshaw Ledger’s birthday, with a Cartier Baignoire watch emerging as the most talked-about gift. Photos Disclosure Press A countryside escape set the tone for Leticia Bradshaw Ledger’s latest birthday celebration. The Brazilian model and influencer spent the occasion at Fasano Boa Vista, where a week of leisurely moments, refined fashion and understated luxury unfolded against one of the country’s most exclusive hospitality destinations. Among the highlights of the celebration was a Cartier Baignoire watch, reportedly valued at more than R$150,000 (approximately US$27,000), which quickly became one of the most talked-about details in the images she shared from the trip. The occasion also offered a rare glimpse into her private life. Ledger, who has consistently kept her personal relationships away from the spotlight, appeared alongside her husband in a handful of carefully composed photographs. Nearly a year after their wedding, his understated presence stood out as one of the couple’s infrequent public appearances together. Throughout the stay, Ledger embraced the timeless aesthetic that has become closely associated with her public image. Tailored silhouettes, understated accessories from renowned maisons and a neutral palette reflected a wardrobe built around quiet luxury rather than seasonal trends. Set within the sprawling grounds of Fasano Boa Vista, the celebration included long lunches, horseback riding, rounds of golf and moments of relaxation surrounded by the property’s rolling landscapes. While the destination provided an elegant backdrop, the Cartier watch naturally emerged as the defining accessory of the week. Rather than documenting every moment, Ledger’s birthday series felt intentionally curated. Blending fashion, travel and subtle personal moments, the images echoed the polished visual language more often associated with luxury editorials than traditional social media updates.

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