Carlos Slim, a Mexican business magnate, investor, and philanthropist, is widely recognized as one of the wealthiest individuals in the world.

His business interests span telecommunications, media, real estate, and more, marking him as a pivotal figure in the global economic landscape.

Background

Carlos Slim Helú was born on January 28, 1940, in Mexico City, Mexico. He is of Lebanese descent, with his father, Julián Slim Haddad, immigrating to Mexico from Lebanon at a young age. Slim’s business acumen developed early, influenced by his father who taught him financial literacy and investment strategies. He studied civil engineering at the National Autonomous University of Mexico and also taught algebra and linear programming there.

Career Highlights

Slim’s career is marked by strategic investments and the growth of his conglomerate, Grupo Carso. His major breakthrough came with the acquisition of Telmex, the Mexican telecommunications company, in 1990. This move catapulted him into the telecom industry, eventually leading to the creation of América Móvil, one of Latin America’s largest mobile telecom firms.

His business interests are diverse, encompassing sectors like retail, healthcare, and media. Slim has held stakes in numerous American companies, including The New York Times, and has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, particularly in the fields of health, education, and arts.

Net Worth

According to Bloomberg and Forbes, Carlos Slim’s net worth was estimated to be around $100 billion, placing him among the richest people in the world. His wealth fluctuates with the market value of his numerous holdings.