The U.S. Trade Representative has initiated an investigation into Brazil's PIX instant payment network, following complaints from major American companies including Visa, Mastercard, Amazon, and Apple. The Trump administration alleges that PIX operates as a state-backed monopoly, distorting competition and disadvantaging U.S. firms. PIX, which processes over $400 billion monthly and serves 180 million users, is criticized for its centralized control, clashing with Trump's preference for decentralized financial systems. This probe underscores escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and Brazil.