Eduardo Hochschild, chairman of Grupo Hochschild, has seen his wealth surge to $5.2 billion in 2026, according to a recent ranking by Forbes, placing him at number 823 on the list of the world’s billionaires. This marks a significant increase from his $2.4 billion valuation and position at 1,513 in the previous year.
Hochschild, 62, holds degrees in mechanical engineering and physics from Tufts University. He joined the Hochschild conglomerate in 1987 and has served as its president since 1998. The group’s primary asset is Hochschild Mining, a company focused on gold and silver extraction with operations in Peru, Argentina, and Brazil.
The valuation reflects the performance of Hochschild Mining and recent strategic moves by the conglomerate. In 2025, Grupo Hochschild announced plans to invest $277 million, through its subsidiary Aclara Resources, in the development of its first rare earth element plant in the United States. Simultaneously, the group agreed to sell its majority stake in Cementos Pacasmayo to Swiss firm Holcim for approximately $1.5 billion, a deal currently awaiting regulatory approval in Peru.
Grupo Hochschild traces its origins back to 1911, founded by Mauricio Hochschild, and has historically been involved in mining and metal trading throughout Latin America. Hochschild Mining plc, headquartered in London and listed on the FTSE 250 index, is now the core of the group’s mining operations.
In Peru, Grupo Hochschild’s key operation is the Inmaculada mine, located in the Ayacucho region. This underground mine is a significant contributor to the company’s production and financial results. The company has been investing to extend the mine’s operational life and improve productivity, with ongoing exploration efforts in the surrounding area. The group also maintains a portfolio of exploration projects, including the Royropata project, which could become a future production source.
The Hochschild family is not the wealthiest in Peru, still. According to Forbes, the Brescia family currently holds the top position with a fortune estimated at $7.44 billion, driven by their holdings in Breca Minería and Breca Banca. The Romero family ranks second, with a net worth of $6.36 billion, following recent business restructuring and asset sales.
Wealthy Peruvian families are increasingly prioritizing investments that generate foreign currency and safe-haven assets amid economic volatility. The mining sector, boosted by high copper and gold prices, remains a key driver of wealth for groups like Breca, and Hochschild. Infrastructure projects, such as the Port of Chancay, are also attracting capital, with conglomerates investing in logistics and storage to capitalize on increased trade with Asia. These families are also utilizing family offices to diversify their portfolios into international markets like Miami and Madrid, and are investing in agro-exports, renewable energy, and technology.
