Luis Carlos Sarmiento Angulo's Biography

Luis Carlos Sarmiento Angulo is a Colombian billionaire businessman, widely regarded as the wealthiest person in Colombia. Born on January 27, 1933, Sarmiento began his career as a civil engineer after graduating from the National University of Colombia. His early foray into the construction industry in the 1950s laid the foundation for his business empire. Over the decades, Sarmiento shifted his focus to banking and finance, founding Grupo Aval, which has grown into Colombia's leading financial conglomerate, controlling major banks such as Banco de Bogotá and Banco AV Villas, as well as pension funds and insurance companies. Sarmiento is known for his disciplined investment strategies and conservative financial management, which have enabled him to weather economic downturns and expand his influence across Latin America. He plays a significant role in Colombia's economic landscape, not just through finance, but also via large-scale infrastructure projects and philanthropic initiatives. Despite occasional controversies surrounding his companies' market dominance and political connections, Sarmiento remains respected for his business acumen and long-term vision. With a net worth estimated at $8.8 billion in 2024, Sarmiento continues to shape the Colombian business world. His story is one of perseverance, strategic planning, and a commitment to sustainable growth, making him a model for aspiring entrepreneurs in Latin America and beyond.