For being one of the biggest passive fund management firms in the world, it’s quite possible that you’ve never heard of BlackRock. Founded a mere 34 years ago, BlackRock has quickly become one of the largest asset managements in the world. The company was established by CEO Larry Fink and is located on Wall Street, an infamous location in New York.
As of 2023, BlackRock has amassed 10 trillion dollars in assets around the world positioning them to be the biggest asset management company in the world. BlackRock operates from 70 different offices in 30 different countries, making them truly international.
From owning shares in news companies, investing into big pharma, owning financial institutions, and investing into many other companies, the influence of BlackRock extends far past the realm of finance, making it almost impossible to do any economic transactions without encountering them. With access to this type of money, BlackRock is granted the ability to silence\influence big corporate landscapes into narrative’s and much more. Due to its power and influence, BlackRock has often been referred to as a “fourth branch of government”.
Critics argue because of the sheer size and power of BlackRock it allows them to undermine competition and essentially take over corporations. With stakes in almost every industry in America the pull BlackRock has on global businesses is undeniable.
In essence, questions continue to surround BlackRocks role in the modern economy. In an age where financial powerhouses play an increasingly pivotal role in the world’s affairs, BlackRock stands as a testament to the ever-evolving nature of global finance.