The Minister of State and Finance, Joaquim Miranda Sarmento, was discharged from Hospital de Santa Maria after observation for a transient ischemic attack and is expected to resume full duties next week, the ministry said. Media reports note he underwent tests that ruled out a stroke and that he is resting at home. Those following fiscal policy and budget timelines should be aware the minister’s return is planned for next week.
Finance minister discharged, returns to duties next week
Thursday, 26 February 2026AI summary

Context & Explainers
Joaquim Miranda Sarmento is Portugal’s Finance Minister who gave a hearing before the Budget, Finance and Public Administration Committee about fiscal measures affecting housing. His remarks matter to expats because finance ministry decisions — like exemptions and public guarantees for young homebuyers — influence the property market, taxes and programmes that can affect housing affordability.
Sources (6)
- Finance Minister discharged from hospital and will resume duties "fully next week"Expresso · 3:11pm, 26 Feb 2026
- Miranda Sarmento: "I am well and ready to resume duties"Observador · 5:31pm, 26 Feb 2026
- Miranda Sarmento has been discharged and will return "in full" to duties next weekPúblico · 4:25pm, 26 Feb 2026
- Finance Minister has been discharged from hospitalRTP Notícias · 3:24pm, 26 Feb 2026
- Finance Minister discharged, can return to work - but only next weekCNN Portugal · 3:45pm, 26 Feb 2026
- Finance Minister discharged from hospitalDiário de Notícias · 3:33pm, 26 Feb 2026