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Billionaire Profile
Luiz Frias
Global Rank
#1961

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Luiz Frias

CEO, Grupo Folha
BR
Real-Time Net Worth
$2B
As of December 2025
Age
62
Source
Media
Industry
media-entertainment
Citizenship
BR

Biography

Luiz Frias, born in 1964, is a prominent Brazilian media executive with an estimated net worth of $2.0 billion. He serves as the chairman of Grupo Folha, one of Brazil's largest media conglomerates, and also heads Universo Online (UOL Inc.). Frias's career began in 1981 when he joined Grupo Folha. He became CEO in 1989 and chairman in 1991. His leadership has been instrumental in transforming Grupo Folha and expanding its reach. His wealth is primarily derived from the media industry, and he is known for his involvement in philanthropy and commitment to social responsibility. Frias's expertise and strategic vision have made him a key figure in the Brazilian media landscape.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Luiz Frias was born in 1964 in São Paulo, Brazil. He comes from a family deeply rooted in the media industry. His father, Octávio Frias, was the former president of Grupo Folha, and his brother, Otávio Frias Filho, served as the editorial director of Grupo Folha and Folha de S.Paulo.

Rise to Success

Frias joined Grupo Folha in June 1981, quickly ascending through the ranks. He was appointed CEO in 1989 and then chairman in 1991. Under his leadership, Grupo Folha grew into a major media company in Brazil. In 1996, Frias founded UOL, a pioneering Brazilian internet company that became one of the most visited websites in the country. PagSeguro Digital, a payments company and subsidiary of UOL, went public in 2018, raising over $2 billion.

Key Business Strategies

Frias has been instrumental in modernizing Grupo Folha, expanding its reach nationally and internationally. He also played a vital role in developing UOL into a leading internet company in Brazil. He focused on strategic investments, expansion, and diversification in the media and technology sectors.

Philanthropy

Luiz Frias is known for his commitment to social responsibility and has been involved in several charitable organizations. He supports various educational and cultural initiatives.

Career Milestones

1981

Joined Grupo Folha

Began his career at Grupo Folha.

1989

CEO of Grupo Folha

Appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of Grupo Folha.

1991

Chairman of Grupo Folha

Became Chairman of the Board of Directors for Grupo Folha.

1996

Founded UOL

Founded Universo Online (UOL), a pioneering Brazilian internet company.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education and Culture

Various charitable organizations

Undisclosed

Supports educational and cultural initiatives

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"Regardless of the constitution, it is important that there is no kind of censorship."