Carlos Slim

Slim's father, Khalil Salim Haddad Aglamaz, was born on 17 July 1888 in Jezzine, Lebanon, before emigrating to Mexico and establishing a successful business.

Carlos Slim's father arrived in Mexico at the age of 14 in 1902, escaping the tough conditions faced by Christians in Lebanon under the Ottoman Empire.

In 1911, Julian Slim and his brother Jose founded the company La Estrella de Oriente in Mexico City. The store became a successful dry goods store with merchandise worth over US$100,000 by 1921.

By 1922, Julian Slim's net worth was already over $1 million pesos, including real estate, businesses, and various stocks.

Julian Slim and Linda Helu got married in Mexico City in August 1926. They later had several children together.

Carlos Slim's father passed away when he was 13 years old, leading to a difficult period during his adolescence.

Carlos Slim Helú, a Mexican business magnate, investor, and philanthropist, was born on January 28, 1940, in Mexico City. He later became one of the richest individuals in the world through his extensive business holdings.

Carlos Slim started investing at a very young age, around 10 or 12 years old. He learned about compound interest and understanding financial statements like balance sheets and estado de resultados. Slim believes in investing in good companies, markets, and sectors with intrinsic values, rather than engaging in frequent buying and selling which he considers irrational.

At the age of 11 in 1951, Carlos Slim invested in a government savings bond, which taught him about the concept of compound interest.

In 1952, at the age of 12, Slim made his first stock purchase by buying shares in a Mexican bank.

In 1953, when Carlos Slim was only 13 years old, his father passed away, leading him to take on more responsibilities within the family business.

By 1955, at the age of 15, Slim had become a shareholder in Mexico's largest bank.

In 1956, Slim pursued civil engineering at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, where he also taught algebra and linear programming.

Carlos Slim attended the National Autonomous University of Mexico and pursued a major in civil engineering.

On June 25, 1965, Carlos Slim acquired funds to start the foundations of his company Grupo Carso, which was named after his wife.

Grupo Carso was founded on June 25, 1966.

Carlos Slim successfully completed his engineering studies and obtained his engineering degree. He also worked as a teacher at the engineering school where he pursued his education.

In 1968, Carlos Slim acquires and manages Mina el Volcán SSG Inmobiliaria, further diversifying his business portfolio.

In 1969, Carlos Slim initiates operations of three new companies: Bienes Raíces Mexicanos, S.A., Nacional de Arrendamientos, and Invest Mentor Mexicana.

By 1972, Carlos Slim had expanded his business operations into numerous industries across the Mexican economy, including construction, soft drink, printing, real estate, bottling, and mining. This diversification marked a significant growth phase in his career.

In 1976, Carlos Slim acquires 60% of Galas de México, enhancing its printing operations significantly.

In 1980, Carlos Slim consolidated his business interests by forming Grupo Galas as the parent company of a conglomerate with diverse interests in industrial manufacturing, construction, mining, retail, food, and tobacco. This strategic move further solidified his presence in the business world.

Amid Mexico's financial crisis in 1982, Grupo Carso, led by Carlos Slim, acquires the controlling interest in numerous companies.

In 1984, Carlos Slim acquires various companies including Bimex, Hulera El Centenario Firestone, and Seguros de México, leading to the creation of Grupo Financiero Inbursa.

Carlos Slim acquires Seguros de México, today Seguros Inbursa, and integrates it with other financial entities to create Grupo Financiero Inbursa.

In 1986, Carlos Slim established Fundación Carlos Slim, which sponsors the Museo Soumaya in Mexico City and engages in various philanthropic activities. The foundation has made significant contributions to education and healthcare projects.

In 1988, Carlos Slim purchased Nacobre, a Mexican copper manufacturer, and Química Fluor, a Mexican chemical maker, further expanding his business portfolio.

Grupo Carso expanded its operations on June 25, 1990.

In 1991, Carlos Slim acquired Hoteles Calinda, a hotel chain, as part of his expanding business ventures.

In 1992, Carlos Slim's company acquired Hoteles Calinda, which is now known as OSTAR Grupo Hotelero.

In 1993, Carlos Slim increased his ownership stakes in General Tire, an American tiremaker, and Grupo Aluminio, a distributor of aluminum profiles, consolidating his influence in these industries.

On March 14, 1994, Harp Helu, who was a cousin of Slim and a financier, was kidnapped. He was released in June after the family paid a significant ransom, rumored to be close to $30 million.

Carlos Slim made early investments on June 25, 1995.

In 1996, Carlos Slim divided Grupo Carso into three separate companies: Carso Global Telecom, Grupo Carso, and Invercorporación, restructuring his business holdings.

Carlos Slim and his daughter Soumaya were awarded at the Academy of Achievement’s 1997 “Salute to Excellence” program in Baltimore, along with Edward Whitacre Jr., Chairman and CEO of AT&T, and his wife Linda.

In 1999, Carlos Slim's wife, Soumaya Domit, passed away, and Slim underwent heart surgery in the same year.

In 2000, Carlos Slim Helú's conglomerate expanded to include education, healthcare, manufacturing, real estate, media, energy, retail, and financial services. With forty percent of the listings on the Mexican Stock Exchange and a net worth of $50 billion, Slim's influence extends across various sectors of the economy.

In 2001, the mobile-telephone division of Telmex, América Móvil, became a separate company. It eventually grew to become one of the largest telecommunications companies in the world.

In 2002, Carlos Slim's company expanded its operations in the United States and South America through various acquisitions.

In 2003, Carlos Slim made headlines by purchasing large stakes in major US retailers such as Barnes & Noble, OfficeMax, and Circuit City, among others. This expansion was driven by the perception in Mexican business circles that there were limited acquisition opportunities in Mexico.

Carlos Slim retired from SBC Communications, Inc. in 2004 to dedicate more time to the IDEAL project, focusing on infrastructure, health, and education.

Mr. Carlos Slim Helu is awarded the Galardon del Salon del Empresario for his contributions to business and entrepreneurship. América Móvil strengthens its presence in South American telecommunications and diversifies into other sectors.

Mr. Carlos Slim Helu was honored with the Life Achievement Award by the World-wide Association of Mexican abroad (AMME) in June 2006.

On 29 March 2007, Carlos Slim surpassed Warren Buffett as the world's second richest person with an estimated net worth of US$53.1 billion.

On 4 August 2007, The Wall Street Journal ran a cover story profiling Slim, stating that he is probably wealthier than Bill Gates.

On 8 August 2007, Fortune magazine reported that Slim had overtaken Bill Gates as the world's richest person.

Carlos Slim made later investments on September 25, 2007.

Carlos Slim, now retired from business activities, dedicates his vast fortune to improving the standard of living in Latin America. Through foundations, he provides educational opportunities, health services, and infrastructure development across the region.

On June 10th, 2008, the listing of TELMEX International Exchanges began in New York, Madrid, and Mexico.

In June 23, Vivian Fernández de Torrijos, First Lady of Panama, and Carlos Slim Helú signed an agreement to implement maternal and infant health programs in Panama through the Carlos Slim Institute of Health.

On November 30, 2008, Carlos Slim and Alex Rodriguez visited the new Sports Center Ciudad Jardin TELMEX Bicentenario, the largest sports center in Mexico located in Nezahualcóyotl.

On December 16th, 2008, Carlos Slim Helu was nominated as a member of the Research and Development Corporation Executive Board, a nonprofit research organization in the United States focusing on commerce and politics.

On February 9, 2009, Eng. Carlos Slim took part in the Forum of analysis, proposals, and agreements titled México ante la Crisis: ¿Qué hacer para crecer?, organized by the Mexican Senate’s Belisario Domínguez Institute from January 27 to February 16.

Eng. Carlos Slim Helu was conferred the Man of the Year 2008 by the World Boxing Council (WBC) in Mexico City.

On 11 March 2009, Forbes ranked Slim as the world's third richest person.

Mr. Carlos Slim Helu received the ESADE award in recognition of his philanthropic and entrepreneurial management during the XIV Annual Celebration ESADE Alumni in Barcelona.

Mr. Carlos Slim received the George Washington University President's Medal, the most distinguished academic award, in recognition of his philanthropic and entrepreneurial management.

On August 17, 2009, Carlos Slim acted as an honorary witness for the Commitment with the Freedom of Expression in Mexico 2009, organized by Fundalex.

On August 19, 2009, Carlos Slim participated in the ceremony where journalist Jacobo Zabludovsky was awarded the Citizen's Merit Medal 2009 by the Federal District’s Legislative Assembly.

On September 7, 2009, Carlos Slim revealed the creation of the Inbursa Foundation, in collaboration with La Caixa of Barcelona, with a significant endowment to support social responsibility initiatives.

On September 24, 2009, the Carlos Slim Foundation and Grameen Trust introduced the Grameen Carso microfinancing program with a substantial investment to support financial inclusion.

Mr. José Luis Luege and Mr. Carlos Slim signed a contract for building the Atotonilco Waste Water Treatment Plant, one of the biggest hydraulic infrastructure works in Mexico.

In January 2010, the Carlos Slim Institute of Health initiated one of the world's largest research projects focusing on the genome of cancer, diabetes, and renal insufficiency in Mexico.

Mr. Carlos Slim and top Telmex executives presented the Plan 'TELMEX 2010 - Technology-Innovation Drive' aimed at driving technology and innovation.

On 10 March 2010, Forbes reported that Slim had overtaken Gates as the world's richest person.

President of Lebanon, Mr. Michel Sleiman, honored Mr. Carlos Slim by awarding him the Lebanese Gold Order to Merit and naming him Honorific Citizen by the Jezzine Municipal Government.

On May 10, 2010, ITU and UNESCO revealed the establishment of the global Broadband Commission for Digital Development co-chaired by Carlos Slim, in Geneva, Switzerland.

The high-level advisory group of the United Nations Organization (UN) on energy and climate change, including Mr. Carlos Slim, met in Mexico to discuss new forms of public-private partnerships and support energy access and efficiency goals.

Carlos Slim was presented with the WBC Humanitarian Prize of the Year by the World Boxing Council for his support to the boxing world.

Mr. Carlos Slim announced that Grupo Carso would invest 44.65 billion pesos in 2011, marking a 13.6% increase from the previous year.

Carlos Slim was honored with the 'Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz' Medal by Claustro de Sor Juana University for his efforts in revitalizing Mexico City's Historic Center.

Carlos Slim received the Quién 50 prize, recognizing him as one of the most influential persons in Mexico's public opinion for his impactful contributions.

Carlos Slim was honored with the Franco-Mexican Friendship Prize by the Franco-Mexican Chamber of Commerce and Industry for his contributions to the relationship between France and Mexico.

Carlos Slim received the Red Cross Badge of Honor and Merit for his humanitarian efforts, presented by the presidents of Mexico's Red Cross and Red Cross International Federation and Red Crescent Societies.

Carlos Slim was awarded the 'Paz y Democracia' Prize in the Investment and Development category by the José Pagés Llergo Foundation.

On May 20, 2012, Carlos Slim was granted an honorary doctorate in public service by George Washington University, recognizing his notable achievements in the field.

Carlos Slim was recognized for his leadership in philanthropy by President Bill Clinton at the Sixth Annual Clinton Global Citizen Awards in New York.

Mr. Carlos Slim received the Gibran National Committee Award in Beirut for his contributions to promoting the works of poet, philosopher, and painter Gibran Khalil Gibran.

The Business Council for International Understanding honored Mr. Carlos Slim Helú with the 2012 Dwight D. Eisenhower Global Leadership Award in New York City.

On January 14, Salman Khan and Carlos Slim revealed the Educational Alliance aiming to provide free access to high-quality education for the population of Mexico and Latin America.

In January, Mr. Carlos Slim took part in the first Global Education and Technology Forum held at Twitter's San Francisco offices.

On 5 March 2013, Forbes stated that Slim was still maintaining his first-place position as the wealthiest person in the world.

Carlos Slim was awarded the Medal of Honor for his dedication and contribution to the shooting sport.

An event where Carlos Slim lost an infamous title, but specific details are not provided.

In 2013, Carlos Slim lost the title of the world's richest man to Bill Gates as a result of a 3.7% drop in America Movil's stock market value.

Mr. Carlos Slim celebrated his 50th anniversary as an engineering graduate at a ceremony organized by engineers and architects associations where he emphasized the importance of digital education and job creation.

On September 24, Mr. Carlos Slim was acknowledged for his Leadership in Philanthropy by former President Clinton at the Sixth Annual Ceremony of Clinton Global Citizen Awards.

On December 12, Mr. Carlos Slim received the Dwight D. Eisenhower Global Leadership Award from the Business Council for International Understanding.

On 23 April 2014, Slim took control of Telekom Austria, Austria's largest telecommunications company, marking his first successful business acquisition in Europe.

The International Telecommunications Union awarded Mr. Carlos Slim the World Telecommunication and Information Society Award in Geneva for his leadership in promoting ICT and broadband connectivity.

Mr. Carlos Slim Helú was acknowledged as Mexico's businessman with the best reputation by the Corporate Reputation Business Monitor (Merco) in Mexico City.

On July 15, 2014, Forbes announced that Slim had reclaimed the position of the wealthiest person in the world.

Mr. Carlos Slim was presented with the Starlite Humanitarian Award in recognition of his philanthropic endeavors during the 5th edition of the Starlite Gala in Marbella, Spain.

Mr. Carlos Slim was honored with the Friars Club's Icon Award by the Friars Club of New York at the Friars Foundation Gala for his philanthropic and humanitarian efforts.

On January 14, 2015, Carlos Slim exercises warrants to acquire 16 million more shares of the New York Times, becoming the company's largest individual shareholder with an almost 17% stake.

Forbes Magazine ranked Carlos Slim Foundation as Mexico's most charitable business foundation.

On January 29, the Carlos Slim Foundation and Coursera sign an agreement to provide free online graduate education to Spanish speaking individuals.

Mr. Carlos Slim received the UNESCO Medal in Paris, France, recognizing his contribution to ensuring that Information and Communication Technologies benefit the population.

Carlos Slim Foundation received the International Recognition Award 2015 for its contributions to improve global health in Houston, Texas, U.S.A.

On April 15, 2015, Slim formed the oil company Carso Oil & Gas, with assets listed at 3.5 billion pesos, emphasizing his interest in Mexico's energy sector.

On July 25, 2015, Slim's investment group Control Empresarial de Capitales invested in IMatchative, a technology startup that ranks the world's hedge funds, showcasing his diverse investment portfolio.

For the third consecutive year, Mr. Carlos Slim was recognized by the Corporate Business Reputation Monitor (Merco) as Mexico’s business leader with the best reputation in Mexico City.

Dr. Mercedes Juan, Mexico’s Secretary of Health, presented an award to the Carlos Slim Foundation in Mexico City for its commitment and achievements in organ and tissue donation and transplants.

The Appeal of Conscience Foundation granted Carlos Slim the Appeal of Conscience Award in New York, USA.

On January 18, 2017, Carlos Slim announced plans to launch Nuestra Vision, a television channel specifically designed for Mexicans residing in the United States.

In January 27, 2017, Carlos Slim, the billionaire, offers to assist Mexico in negotiating with the new US government led by President Trump. He praises Trump's negotiation abilities and expresses optimism about positive changes for Mexico.

Carlos Slim Helú received the Humanitarian Award from the Andrea Bocelli Foundation in Rome, Italy.

Carlos Slim was recognized at the 4th Edition of the Ibero-American Patron of the Arts Awards in Madrid for his social commitment to the arts.

On October 30, 2019, the Carlos III University of Madrid honored Mr. Carlos Slim Helú with the Medal of Honor.

On March 21, 2020, Carlos Slim was presented with the Queen Sofía Spanish Institute Sophia Award for Excellence during an awards luncheon, highlighting his exceptional contributions.

The Carso Group and the Carlos Slim Foundation detailed actions taken to help the community face the sanitary emergency caused by COVID-19 on March 24, 2020.

On April 22, 2020, it was announced that Mexico City would have additional hospital space sponsored by the Carlos Slim Foundation to manage COVID-19 patients.

On April 30, 2020, Carlos Slim secured a contract to construct a section of the government's Maya Train, a significant infrastructure initiative aimed at connecting various cities across five southeastern states of Mexico.

On June 8, 2020, the Carlos Slim, Telmex-Telcel, and Inbursa foundations donated MX$1,000 M to support the fight against COVID-19 and assist medical personnel in over 30 hospitals.

On August 12, 2020, AstraZeneca announced a partnership with the Carlos Slim Foundation to provide the COVID-19 vaccine across Latin America.

On October 12, 2020, the Carlos Slim Foundation announced an extra donation of MX$90 M to extend the operation of the COVID-19 Temporary Unit until December 2020.

On June 30, 2021, Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador announced that Carlos Slim will cover all the expenses for the reconstruction of Mexico City's subway overpass, which collapsed in May, resulting in 26 fatalities.

Her Majesty Queen Sophia of Spain awarded the 'Sophia Award for Excellence' to Mexican businessman and philanthropist Eng. Carlos Slim.

The UIT acknowledged the Carlos Slim Foundation and América Móvil for their advancements in health care technology.

Engineer Carlos Slim Helú delivered a speech at the Telmex Foundation Event titled 'Mexico 21st Century' held at the National Auditorium in Mexico City.

The Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Mexico honored Carlos Slim with the Vasco de Quiroga Award for his efforts in promoting business opportunities between Spain and Mexico.

Carlos Slim Helú, one of the world's richest people with a net worth of $92.1 billion as of September 2023, amassed his wealth through a combination of business acumen and political connections.

On October 25, 2023, His Majesty King Felipe IV of Spain presented the 'Enrique V. Iglesias Award' to Carlos Slim for his contribution to the development of Ibero-America.

Engineer Carlos Slim took part in the 28th Plenary Meeting of the Montevideo Circle Foundation themed 'The Ethics Rebirth' held in Asturias, Spain.

The Carlos Slim and TELMEX Telcel foundations initiated the distribution of 26 tons of humanitarian aid following Hurricane Otis.

Carlos Slim, along with other businessmen, pledged to assist in the reconstruction of Acapulco after the devastation caused by Hurricane Otis during a meeting with President Andrés Manuel López Obrador.

Eng. Carlos Slim Helú delivered a Master Conference to ITAM alumni in Mexico City as part of the Economic Perspectives Forum 2024.

Eng. Carlos Slim Helú addressed the business history of Grupo Carso and Telmex privatización during a press conference in Mexico City, followed by a Q&A session.

Eng. Carlos Slim Helú participated in the Nearshoring Summit Mexico, focusing on Productivity with a Vision for the Future, held in Mexico City.

Carso Energy, through its subsidiary Gasoducto Centauro del Norte S. A de C. V., signed an agreement with the Federal Electricity Commission on October 20 to develop a gas pipeline as an expansion of the Samalayuca – Sásabe line.