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Ricardo Salinas Pliego is a prominent Mexican businessman, the founder and chairman of Grupo Salinas. His wealth stems from his diverse holdings in retail, media, and financial services. He is known for his leadership of TV Azteca and Grupo Elektra, which caters to a broad consumer base. Salinas Pliego has also been involved in philanthropy through Fundación Azteca, and he is known for his outspoken views on business, economics, and social issues.
Ricardo Benjamín Salinas Pliego was born on October 19, 1955, in Mexico City, Mexico. He is the son of Hugo Salinas Price, a prominent Mexican businessman, and Esther Pliego. Salinas Pliego attended the Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey (ITESM) where he studied to become an accountant. He earned a Bachelor's degree in accounting in 1977. He then earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Tulane University in 1979.
Salinas Pliego began his career at Elektra in 1981 as an import manager. He became the general director of the company in 1987. Under his leadership, Elektra focused on selling basic appliances, electronics, and furniture to middle and low-income consumers. In 1993, he acquired Imevisión, which was then renamed TV Azteca.
Salinas Pliego is the founder and chairman of Grupo Salinas, a conglomerate with interests in telecommunications, media, financial services, and retail. Grupo Elektra, founded in 1950, is a leading financial services and retail company in Latin America. TV Azteca is the second-largest mass media company in Mexico. Banco Azteca, part of Grupo Elektra, provides banking services.
In 1997, Salinas Pliego started Fundación Azteca, a non-profit organization that focuses on health, education, and environmental protection.
Began working at Elektra as an import manager.
Appointed as the general director of Grupo Elektra.
Acquired Imevisión, which was renamed TV Azteca.
Established a non-profit organization focused on social issues.
Supports health, education, and environmental protection initiatives.
"“Let's not be mistaken: I admire women that ask for more than what they are asked for by society: to be daughter, mother, professional and household provider.”"
Promotes environments of freedom and innovation.
Advocates for inclusive prosperity and well-being for all.
Charged by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) with concealing his role in transactions that profited him by $109 million. He settled the case by paying $7.5 million.
Made statements about women in modern societies that were perceived as critical of women working and pursuing careers while also being homemakers.
Facing scrutiny related to tax payments and allegations of tax fraud and evasion.
