The succession of the presidency of the Mexican Banking Association (ABM) is generating great interest in the financial sector. One of the names that has gained prominence is Raúl Martínez Ostos, director of Barclays. However, there are doubts regarding his profile and background, especially during Vicente Fox's government, a time when he was involved in scandals and accusations of corruption.
Martínez Ostos's potential candidacy is hindered by doubts about his suitability due to the size of the bank he represents. On the other hand, Trump's offensive against drug trafficking has clouded the banking environment in Mexico, complicating the sale of HSBC's commercial division. Furthermore, the support that Martínez Ostos could receive is questioned, given Barclays' restructuring situation.
In contrast, the environment of Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum promotes the idea of a woman presiding over the ABM. However, there are not many prominent female profiles in the sector, except for Regina García Cuellar, who took over the association's direction a few months ago.
Amid discussions about possible candidates, the reappearance of Francisco Gil Díaz, former Secretary of Finance during Fox's government, stands out, as he has expressed support for Martínez Ostos, his former spokesperson. Gil Díaz has engaged in conversations with bankers to seek a successor for Julio Carranza, the current ABM president whose term ends this year.
Although there are still a few months until the election process, conversations and lobbying regarding who will lead the association have already begun. Besides Martínez Ostos, other names being considered include Tomás Ehrenberg of Grupo Financiero Ve por Más and Jorge Arce of HSBC. The uncertainty about who will occupy the ABM presidency will remain until the next banking convention in April.
