This week in finance, a report showed that Mexican retirement fund administrators (Afores) achieved a historic 27% profit growth in 2025, reaching MX$1 trillion in credit by development banks to support 2.2 million borrowers. In other news, the Institute of International Finance (IIF) warns of a cooling economy with a projected growth of only 0.9% for 2026. Meanwhile, the upcoming 2026 World Cup is emerging as a critical driver for digital transformation, forcing Mexican small businesses to adopt electronic payments to accommodate millions of expected international visitors.
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Mexican Pension Funds Report Record 27% Profit Growth in 2025
Mexican Afores reported a 27% increase in profits during the first 11 months of 2025, reaching MX$14.57 billion. According to data from CONSAR, this represents the highest profit level since 2020, driven by historic investment returns and a steady increase in mandatory employer contributions.
Mexican Inflation Slows to 3.72% in Early December
Mexico’s annual inflation rate decelerated during the first half of December, reinforcing Banxico’s recent decision to extend its interest rate reduction cycle. The national statistics institute, INEGI, reported that consumer prices rose 3.72% annually, falling below the median analyst projection of 3.88% and the 3.80% rate recorded at the end of November.
2026 World Cup Drives Digital Payment Shift for Small Businesses
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is serving as a primary catalyst for the digitalization of Mexico’s MSMEs. With an expected influx of 5.5 million international visitors, digital payment adoption will transition from a competitive advantage to a commercial necessity for small businesses aiming to capture the tournament’s economic impact.
IIF Forecasts 0.9% Growth for Mexican Economy in 2026
Mexico’s economy is projected to grow 0.9% in 2026, marking a second consecutive year of sub-1% expansion, according to a report from the IIF. This forecast remains below the pre-pandemic average of 1.8% and contrasts with the 2.3% growth estimate used by the Mexican government for its federal budget.
Mexico Development Banks Support 2.2 Million Borrowers
Mexico’s development banking system placed more than MX$715 billion in direct credit to the private sector during the first three quarters of 2025. According to the Ministry of Finance and Public Credit (SHCP), total financing reached MX$1 trillion when credit channeled through guarantees is included, benefiting 2.2 million recipients.