Fernando De Leon, now a recognized name in the business world, began his journey far from the luxury skyscrapers and million-dollar investments. Raised in poverty in Matamoros, Mexico, he crossed the border every day to attend school in Texas. However, the two-country education system didn’t slow him down.
After finishing his classes in the U.S., he would return to Matamoros to continue his education at night, getting ahead of his peers. This early determination set the tone for the rest of his life.
From the Border to Harvard: A Journey of Effort and Achievement
The young De León eventually graduated from Harvard, an accomplishment he first shared with the border agent who watched him grow up, recognizing the impact of the daily grind that shaped his character. His story didn’t stop at the Ivy League; after a stint on Wall Street, he returned to Texas, where he decided to strike out on his own.
Strategic Investments: Betting on the Necessary
Unlike other entrepreneurs who seek luxury markets or very high risks, De León bet on the essentials. From the beginning, he invested in middle- and working-class housing properties, sectors that are always in demand.
This pragmatic approach led him to build Leon Capital Group, which today operates in 12 industries, including healthcare, real estate, and insurance. Approximately one-third of his fortune is in real estate, while the remaining 30% is in healthcare ventures such as cardiology, ophthalmology and dental centers.
De León Vision: Seizing Opportunities
The economic crisis of 2008 was an opportunity for De León. Instead of holding out, he took advantage of the market downturn, selling assets before the collapse and then acquiring distressed properties and loans at reduced prices. This allowed him to expand his portfolio with renovations and developments that were key to his growth.
Today, Leon Capital Group generates more than $800 million annually and employs more than 4,000 people. De León has managed to maintain an impressive annual profitability of 35% since its inception.
With an eye always on the future, De León has no intention of stopping there. His ambition is big, and he dreams of competing with the big names in investing, such as Warren Buffett, in the next 30 to 50 years.
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