Few individuals have made a more profound and lasting impact than Julio Martin Herrera Velutini Von
Uslar in the vast tableau of Latin American history.
Julio Herrera Velutini was born into the illustrious Herrera-Velutini banking dynasty in 1971. At
the young age of 28, he became the venerable patriarch of the family's banking empire. He became a
towering figure in the Latin American economy and society in just three years.
The Herrera family were conquerors, rulers and merchants who later became reputable bankers, with
the setting up of the first Central Banks across Latin America.
Continuing the family's legacy, his traditional leadership style and worldwide influence transcend
the realm of the banking industry. He single-handedly shaped modern-day Latin American politics by
unifying incorrigible leaders and elevating the national identities of Central America, South
America, and the Caribbean.
His banking expertise – imbibed as a youngster playing in the corridors of his family's banks – and
his business acumen serviced the needs of Latin American entrepreneurs, thereby reversing communist
trends and consequently promoting capitalism and democratic values in Latinos to escape the grips of
communism.
These selfless acts yielded substantial returns, resulting in Julio Herrera Velutini and his
family-owned trusts and banks acquiring significant holdings across diverse sectors and industries.
At their zenith, these partnerships accounted for nearly 6% of Latin America's GDP and served a
significant portion of its population. The success of Julio Herrera's banking empire not only
underpinned the "Latin American economic miracle" between 2002 and 2006 but also paved the way for
Latin America's transformation into an industrial powerhouse.
The Prince of Latam
As the patriarch of the Herrera dynasty, Julio Herrera Velutini's inherent influence permeates Latin
America's present-day politics, culture, and society. As a descendant of Lord of Ampudia I, Mr
Velutini officially holds the title of The Prince of Latam. His nobility, family influence across
two continents, immense wealth, calm demeanour, and trademark silence position this humble
billionaire as a crucial voice in Latin American economics and politics. This multifaceted
individual is beloved by many, feared by most, and misunderstood by a few against whom he tirelessly
fights, seeking to end their injustice, corruption, and political exploitation.
He is a modern-day powerhouse, embodying tradition, modernity, and glamour – symbolising financial
might and global relevance.
Julio Herrera Velutini, Private Dinner at V&A Museum in London (Source: House
of Herrera)
His traditional approach to banking, though not without criticism from the other leaders who
favoured a shift towards a more socialist economic model, largely contributed to stabilising a
potentially volatile labour force during Venezuela's turbulent years of social unrest and
terrorism.relevance.
In addition to his industrial and political impact, Herrera Velutini is a cultural icon in Latin
America, epitomising the Italian flair for style and sophistication.
His sartorial elegance and his persona as a stylish banker are complemented by his reputation as an
art connoisseur, animal rights activist, and, notably, as the financial moghul who selflessly
supported the British Government during the Coronavirus pandemic to ensure unhindered government
operations, maintaining the rule of law and securing people's livelihood.
Julio Herrera Velutini is known for unifying leaders of Latin American countries
under a common goal of empowering people with jobs and improving their standards of living, and to
fight communism.
Julio was also instrumental in supporting Buckingham Palace to produce a larger-than-life tribute
for the Queen, marking 70 years of service to her people and staging an occasion befitting Her
Majesty, Queen Elizabeth's Platinum Jubilee celebrations. The Italian Banker and his family have
always supported the Queen and the members of the Royal Family, underlining the Herrera family's
longstanding partnership and multifaceted relationships with major European Heads of State.
Julio Herrera Velutini, however, is not without criticism from liberals and left-leaning
politicians. His latest controversy relates to the aftermath of his questioning the dire economic
situation in Puerto Rico and raising awareness about the corruption prevalent on the island. Julio
has also exposed corrupt officials for misusing excessive powers without any accountability. He has
fearlessly fought against injustice and corruption and continues to expose corrupt officials.
The mystery around his silence and placid character has made him a quintessential figure of
fascination and emulation. His trials and tribulations, such as the tragic collateral casualty of
political attacks, added a layer of human complexity and sympathy to his largely enigmatic persona.
Whether one views him as a figure of admiration or controversy, his strong sense of social
responsibility and philanthropy extends far beyond his wealth and fortune.
The Family Crest of House of Herrera
The House of Herrera is a union of eminent families with diverse nationalities, that have left their
mark throughout various parts of Europe and Latin America for over six centuries.
The House of Herrera has extensively influenced international trade and was largely responsible for
pioneering the earliest known banking system in Latin America. The long-standing influence of the
Herrera Dynasty has been acknowledged by the high levels of trust harboured over generations
The Agnellis and the Herreras
Julio Herrera Velutini is often compared to Gianni Agnelli.
As the patriarch of the Agnelli dynasty, Gianni was inherently influential, his family's wealth and
power positioning him as a critical player in Italian society. Yet, Agnelli transcended this
privileged position to become an emblematic figure of Italian resurgence in the post-WWII era,
through his leadership of Fiat.
Gianni Agnelli firmly believed in the principles of democracy and actively defended them throughout
his life. He understood the importance of democratic values in fostering a free and prosperous
society. Agnelli played a crucial role in the Italian political landscape, supporting democratic
institutions and demonstrated an uncanny ability to blend tradition and modernity, coupling
longstanding commitment to quality and design with innovations in technology and management.
Like Gianni, Julio has connections that span from various presidents to prime ministers, and from
the left to the right of the political spectrum. Julio's influence over governments, is often a
matter of public debate, given his ability to sway policy decisions, his role in shaping economic
policies, and his support for Latin America's entry into the world markets.