"Carlos Slim takes advantage of 'Black Monday' to strengthen his influence in energy."

The recent panic in the stock markets, known as "Black Monday," has had an unexpected effect: the successful investment strategy of Carlos Slim, the Mexican magnate who has adeptly interpreted the ups and downs of the economy. According to Bloomberg, the entrepreneur has taken advantage of the widespread decline in stock prices to increase his stake in the U.S. energy sector, specifically in two oil companies, Talos Energy and PBF Energy. This move not only highlights his ability to spot opportunities in times of crisis but also marks a clear shift in the focus of his investment portfolio. Slim's company, Control Empresarial de Capitales, disbursed around $24 million to acquire a total of 923,000 shares of Talos Energy and 357,000 of PBF Energy between August 1 and 2. With this transaction, the entrepreneur's stake in these companies increased to 21.3% and 15.5%, respectively. This decision is not coincidental; it reflects a broader strategy aimed at diversifying his influence in the energy sector, an area that has seen a resurgence in investor interest. Historically, Carlos Slim has amassed his fortune in telecommunications, but his recent move into the energy field indicates a new era for his business empire. In May 2023, his conglomerate Grupo Carso had already begun making a name for itself in this sector by investing $125 million in the Zama oil field, located off the coast of Tabasco. This investment was just the first step on a path that has seen an increase in his interest in the country's energy resources. By the end of December of the same year, Slim reaffirmed his commitment to the sector by paying $530 million for a 50% stake in the Ichalkil and Pokpch oil fields, located off the coast of Campeche. These decisions not only strengthen his portfolio but also position Slim as a significant player in the reconfiguration of the energy sector in Mexico, which has been characterized by the debate between private investment and the role of Petróleos Mexicanos (Pemex). The magnate has also set his sights on the Lakach natural gas field, where he announced a $1 billion investment to reactivate the reserves that have remained unexplored since their discovery in 2006. Despite previous efforts by Pemex and its attempt to partner with New Fortress Energy, the collaboration did not materialize. Now, with Grupo Carso returning to the table, Slim aims to seize the opportunity this field represents. The economic context in which Carlos Slim operates is not indifferent to the strategy of President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, who has focused on revitalizing Pemex by injecting billions of resources to combat its high debt. This situation has led to a regulatory approach that limits competition from private companies, which could pave the way for collaboration between Slim and the government. Slim's actions suggest that he sees Mexico as a conducive environment to work alongside authorities while also obtaining significant economic benefits. The combination of his investment capacity and the government's willingness to partner with entrepreneurs like him could signify a change in the dynamics of the energy sector in the country. However, Slim's growing presence in the energy sector raises questions about competition and market sustainability. With his influence on the rise, it will be crucial to observe how relationships develop between Pemex, the government, and private companies in the future. At a time when the world faces energy challenges, Slim's ability to navigate this new landscape will be key. "Black Monday" has shown once again that amid chaos, opportunities can arise for those willing to take risks. Carlos Slim, with his entrepreneurial vision, is positioned to capitalize on these circumstances, seeking not only the growth of his empire but also the possibility of reinventing the energy sector in Mexico. Undoubtedly, this strategy will be closely watched by analysts and economists in the coming months as decisions and movements unfold in a constantly evolving sector.