Gustavo Wigman
Credit Suisse
First-place appearances: 0

Total appearances: 2

Team debut: 2012

Gustavo Wigman of Credit Suisse rises from runner-up to third place. The São Paulo–based analyst has increased his coverage universe by four companies since last year, for a total of 25, and plans to add eight to ten more in the year ahead. “Inflation has had a significant impact on household budgets and should continue to pressure consumption over the next months,” he says. “Besides the pressures on demand, most companies will need to deal with the cost implications of a weaker currency.” He urges money managers to be selective. In May 2012, Wigman dubbed BRF his top pick, at 30.56 reais, on the belief that the Itajaí-based food processor was in the midst of a turnaround that he says will “bring positive surprises for investors.” He was a bit early; the shares slipped to 27.60 reais in July 2012 before reversing course — but then climb they did. A year later they had soared to 48.04 reais, for a 57.2 percent life-of-call advance that outpaced the sector by 38 percentage points. — Pam Baker