Today, the "14 families" ( las 14 familias ) is a popular cultural shorthand for the oligarchy. While the original 14 families of independence (like the Arce and Aguilar families) have faded, a new, more powerful roster has emerged. These 14 groups control banking, coffee, sugar, distribution, and media.
Catalan-Salvadoran. Power Base: Industrial & Chemical (Plastic, PVC, Packaging). Reach: If you buy a pipe, a bottle, or a plastic chair in El Salvador, you are paying the Sola family. They own Grupo SyM (Solá y Montalvo). They avoid the press. They avoid politics. They just own the supply chain. That makes them arguably the "best" hidden wealth. 14 richest families in el salvador best
A historically powerful political and business family. They own and have massive holdings in the financial sector. Former President Alfredo Cristiani is a key figure here. Today, the "14 families" ( las 14 familias
Deep roots in coffee, cotton, and sugar; now part of major business groups. Catalan-Salvadoran