BlackRock Buys Panama Ports for $22.8 Billion

BlackRock, the world's largest asset manager, has agreed to acquire majority stakes in the strategic ports of Balboa and Cristobal at the Panama Canal for $22.8 billion from Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison. This move aligns with President Donald Trump's concerns over Chinese influence in the region, as the U.S. sees the Chinese presence as a national security threat. The acquisition includes a controlling interest in 43 ports across 23 countries, with BlackRock partnering with Global Infrastructure Partners and Terminal Investment Limited. Panama recently exited China’s Belt and Road Initiative, further distancing itself from Chinese influence. Despite CK Hutchison's claim that the deal is purely commercial, the sale comes amidst increased pressure from Trump’s administration on Panama to reduce Chinese control. The transaction is expected to alleviate U.S. concerns by putting these critical ports under American corporate control.