Today's Top Business News for Mexico's Business Sector, February 23

The start of the week tested the resilience of Mexico’s business sector. A combination of violence in key regions, abrupt financial market movements, and mixed signals are among this Monday’s most important news. On February 23, the economic impact of the operation that resulted in the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, alias “El Mencho,” extended beyond public security. From the

to bank closures, flight cancellations, and judicial suspensions, the business agenda was forced to react swiftly. Concurrently, the international front offered no reprieve: new trade tensions driven by the United States, adjustments on Wall Street, and strategic decisions in the Panama Canal redefined the operating context for Mexican businesses, both locally and globally.

This Monday’s Top News

Mexican Peso Experiences Risk Aversion: The Mexican currency became the second-worst performing currency against the dollar this Monday. The exchange rate reached 17.20 units, reflecting the uncertainty generated by the weekend’s violent events.
Message of Stability from the Federal Government: President Claudia Sheinbaum assured that road blockades had been cleared and that governability exists in the country.
Banks Adjust Operations for Security: Various financial institutions announced temporary branch closures in Jalisco and other states. Santander, BBVA México, Banamex, Banorte, HSBC, and Scotiabank prioritized the safety of clients and employees.
United States Increases Political and Commercial Pressure: President Donald Trump demanded that Mexico intensify its fight against drug trafficking and confirmed U.S. intelligence support in the operation.
Wall Street and Mexican Exchanges in the Red: Stock markets reacted cautiously. The Dow Jones fell 1.27% after the U.S. imposed a 15% global tariff. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq also retreated. In Mexico, the S&P/BMV IPC of the Mexican Stock Exchange deepened its losses.
Airlines and Airports Among the Most Affected: Shares of Aeroméxico and Volaris recorded significant declines, while airport groups like GAP and Asur also retreated.
Pemex Guarantees Fuel Supply: Amid uncertainty, Petróleos Mexicanos reported that its operations continue normally and that fuel supply is assured.
Panama Takes Control of Strategic Ports: Panamanian authorities assumed control of the ports of Balboa and Cristóbal after annulling the concession to CK Hutchison Holdings.
Mexican Economy Grows, but Cautiously: INEGI confirmed that GDP grew 0.8% in 2025. Although the figure is positive, the moderate pace reflects an environment of structural and external challenges.
Suspension of Judicial Activities and Labor Alerts: Judicial authorities suspended activities in several states for security reasons, while the Mexico City International Airport requested its personnel to attend without uniforms.