mexican SOFOM
Christian Reeves

Setting up a SOFOM in Mexico to Operate a Fintech, Financial Services, or Crypto Business

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A Mexican SOFOM, or Sociedad Financiera de Objeto Múltiple, is a type of financial institution that can provide a variety of financial services, including money transmission, cryptocurrency, loans, leases, and factoring. SOFOMs can be either regulated or unregulated, with regulated SOFOMs being subject to more oversight by the Mexican government.

Fintech, financial services, and crypto companies in Mexico are increasingly using SOFOMs to provide their customers with a wider range of financial services. For example, fintech companies may use SOFOMs to provide loans to small businesses, while financial services companies may use SOFOMs to offer investment products to their customers. Crypto companies may also use SOFOMs to provide services such as cryptocurrency trading and custody.

SOFOMs offer a number of advantages for fintech, financial services, and crypto companies in Mexico. First, SOFOMs can provide these companies with access to a wider range of financial products and services. Second, SOFOMs can help these companies to reach a wider customer base. Third, SOFOMs can help these companies to comply with Mexican financial regulations.

As the fintech, financial services, and crypto sectors in Mexico continue to grow, SOFOMs are likely to play an increasingly important role in these industries. SOFOMs offer a number of advantages for these companies, and they can help these companies to provide their customers with a wider range of financial services.

The Most Efficient Structure for a Financial Services, Fintech or Crypto Business in Mexico is a SOFOM

A Sociedad Financiera de Objeto Múltiple (SOFOM) is a type of financial institution in Mexico that is authorized to provide a wide range of financial services, including loans, leases, and factoring. SOFOMs are regulated by the Comisión Nacional Bancaria y de Valores (CNBV), the Mexican banking and securities commission.

There are two types of SOFOMs: regulated and unregulated. Regulated SOFOMs are subject to more stringent regulatory requirements than unregulated SOFOMs. However, regulated SOFOMs also have access to a wider range of financial services and products.

A SOFOM is the most efficient structure for a number of reasons. First, SOFOMs are authorized to provide a wide range of financial services, which allows businesses to offer a more comprehensive suite of products to their customers. Second, SOFOMs are regulated by the CNBV, which provides businesses with a high level of financial stability and security. Third, SOFOMs have access to a wide range of financial resources, which allows businesses to grow and expand their operations.

If you are considering starting a financial services business in Mexico, a SOFOM is the most efficient structure to consider. SOFOMs offer a wide range of benefits, including access to a wide range of financial services, products, and resources.

Here are some additional benefits of incorporating as a SOFOM in Mexico:

  • Flexibility: SOFOMs have a great deal of flexibility in terms of the types of financial services they can offer. This allows businesses to tailor their offerings to the specific needs of their customers.
  • Scalability: SOFOMs are well-suited for businesses that are looking to grow and expand. They offer a wide range of financial resources that can help businesses to finance their growth.
  • Reputation: SOFOMs are regulated by the CNBV, which gives them a high level of financial stability and security. This is important for businesses that want to build a strong reputation with their customers.

Here are some specific examples of how SOFOMs are being used by fintech, financial services, and crypto companies in Mexico:

  • Fintech company Konfío uses SOFOMs to provide loans to small businesses.
  • Financial services company Banorte uses SOFOMs to offer investment products to its customers.
  • Crypto company Bitso uses SOFOMs to provide cryptocurrency trading and custody services.

These are just a few examples of how SOFOMs are being used by fintech, financial services, and crypto companies in Mexico. As these industries continue to grow, SOFOMs are likely to play an increasingly important role in providing financial services to Mexicans.

Here are the steps on how to set up a SOFOM in Mexico:

  1. Obtain a corporate charter. The first step is to obtain a corporate charter from the Secretaría de Economía (Secretariat of Economy). The corporate charter will set forth the basic structure of your company, including its name, purpose, and capitalization.
  2. Register with the National Banking and Securities Commission (CNBV). Once you have obtained your corporate charter, you must register with the CNBV. The CNBV is the Mexican government agency responsible for regulating the financial sector. The registration process with the CNBV can be complex, so it is advisable to seek professional assistance.
  3. Obtain a license to operate as a SOFOM. Once you have registered with the CNBV, you must obtain a license to operate as a SOFOM. The license application process is also complex, so it is advisable to seek professional assistance.
  4. Establish a physical presence in Mexico. To operate as a SOFOM in Mexico, you must establish a physical presence in the country. This means that you must have an office or other location where you can conduct business.
  5. Obtain the necessary permits and licenses. In addition to the license to operate as a SOFOM, you may also need to obtain other permits and licenses from local authorities. The specific requirements will vary depending on the location of your business.
  6. Hire qualified staff. To operate a successful SOFOM, you will need to hire qualified staff. This includes employees with experience in the financial sector, as well as employees with experience in the Mexican market.
  7. Develop a marketing plan. Once you have established your business, you will need to develop a marketing plan to attract customers. This plan should include strategies for reaching potential customers, as well as strategies for building relationships with customers.

Here are some additional requirements for setting up a SOFOM in Mexico:

  • A business plan that outlines the company’s goals, strategies, and financial projections.
  • A financial model that details the company’s sources of funding and projected cash flows.
  • Background information on the shareholders, including their financial and professional qualifications.
  • A copy of the shareholders’ agreement.
  • A copy of the company’s bylaws.

We can provide local directors if that is your need, but they are not required. Local directors can be helpful in navigating the Mexican legal and regulatory environment. They can also help to build relationships with local businesses and government officials.

If you are considering setting up a SOFOM in Mexico, we encourage you to contact us for more information. We can help you to assess your needs and develop a plan to achieve your goals. You can reach me directly at info@premieroffshore.com 

cancun business
Christian Reeves

Businesses to Start in Cancun, Mexico

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Cancun, the jewel of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, is not just a paradise for beach lovers, but also a thriving hub for various types of businesses. Thanks to its status as one of the world’s premier tourist destinations, a thriving expat community, and a steadily growing economy, Cancun offers a plethora of opportunities for entrepreneurs. Here are some of the best businesses to operate from Cancun, Mexico.

1. Tourism & Hospitality

Tourism is Cancun’s lifeblood. Each year, millions of tourists flock to Cancun for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. This makes the tourism and hospitality industry a natural choice for businesses in Cancun. Opportunities abound in various sub-sectors such as hotels, vacation rentals, travel agencies, tour operators, and restaurants. From luxury to budget experiences, there’s a market segment to cater to every type of traveler.

2. Real Estate

As Cancun continues to grow in popularity, so does its real estate market. The demand for properties, both for residential and vacation purposes, has been on the rise. This opens up opportunities for real estate agencies, property management companies, and vacation rental services. Moreover, with many foreigners buying properties in Cancun, there’s a growing need for services catering to expats, such as relocation consultants and legal services related to property transactions.

3. Health & Wellness

Health and wellness are big business in Cancun. Given the city’s reputation as a place for relaxation and rejuvenation, businesses offering wellness experiences can thrive. This could include spas, yoga and meditation centers, health retreats, and alternative therapy services. There’s also a growing market for medical tourism in Cancun, with many visitors coming for procedures like dental work, cosmetic surgery, and other treatments.

4. Event Planning

Cancun is a popular destination for events, particularly weddings and corporate retreats. Therefore, event planning services that can organize and manage these events are in high demand. This could include wedding planners, corporate event coordinators, catering services, and companies offering unique experiences for events.

5. E-commerce

Given Cancun’s location and the digital nature of e-commerce, entrepreneurs can operate an online business from Cancun targeting customers anywhere in the world. This could be anything from an online retail store to digital marketing services. With a good internet connection and the right business model, you can enjoy the Cancun lifestyle while running a global business.

E-commerce in Cancun benefits from Mexico’s rapidly growing online market. Internet penetration in Mexico is on the rise, with more and more consumers turning to online shopping. This trend has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, as consumers have adapted to buying a wider range of goods and services online. E-commerce businesses based in Cancun can serve this growing market while also reaching out to international customers.

Running an e-commerce business from Cancun offers the advantage of lower operational costs compared to many other locations. Costs for things like rent and labor can be significantly less expensive, allowing businesses to operate more competitively. Additionally, living costs in Cancun can be lower than in many other cities, which can further reduce the cost of running a business.

Lastly, the lifestyle and environment in Cancun can provide a source of inspiration for e-commerce entrepreneurs. For example, businesses could sell products inspired by Cancun’s beautiful surroundings, such as beachwear, home decor, or artisanal crafts. Alternatively, digital nomads with skills in areas like web design, writing, or digital marketing can offer their services to clients around the world while enjoying life in Cancun.

In short, e-commerce can be an excellent business choice for those looking to combine the flexibility and potential of online business with the lifestyle benefits of living in Cancun.

6. Environmental Conservation

Cancun’s natural beauty is one of its biggest draws, and there’s increasing recognition of the need to protect this. Businesses focused on environmental conservation, sustainable tourism, or offering eco-friendly products and services can find a receptive audience in Cancun. This could include everything from eco-tours to consulting services for businesses looking to become more sustainable.

7. Language Schools

With a significant number of expats and tourists interested in learning Spanish, language schools or private tutoring services can be a good business option. Conversely, English language instruction is also in demand, as it’s a crucial skill for locals seeking employment in the tourism industry.

In conclusion, Cancun offers a wealth of business opportunities, many of which capitalize on the city’s status as a world-class tourist destination. But beyond tourism, the growing local economy and international connections also offer opportunities in sectors like real estate, health and wellness, e-commerce, and more. With its beautiful setting and vibrant business environment, Cancun is a place where business and pleasure truly can mix.

doing business in mexico
Christian Reeves

An Inside Look at the Business Climate in Mexico for FinTech and Crypto Businesses

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The dynamic business landscape in Mexico is offering fertile ground for both FinTech and crypto businesses. Driven by a potent mix of regulatory evolution, market potential, and consumer demand, Mexico has emerged as one of Latin America’s hotspots for these disruptive technologies. Here’s a look at the vibrant business climate in Mexico for FinTech and crypto enterprises.

Mexico’s Favorable Regulatory Landscape

In 2018, Mexico established itself as a regional pioneer by enacting the first FinTech Law in Latin America. This comprehensive legislation provides a regulatory framework for companies in the FinTech space, including crypto businesses, ensuring their operations’ safety, security, and transparency.

Under the law, FinTech companies can operate as Financial Technology Institutions (ITFs), while crypto-related businesses must be authorized by the Mexican Central Bank (Banxico). The law paves the way for increased consumer protection, fosters competition, and encourages financial inclusion.

While there are still aspects of the law that require further clarification, its presence symbolizes the government’s commitment to fostering an environment conducive to FinTech and crypto innovation.

Untapped Market Potential

Despite significant strides in financial inclusion, a substantial portion of Mexico’s population remains unbanked or underbanked. These individuals and businesses, underserved by traditional financial institutions, represent a considerable untapped market for FinTech and crypto businesses.

FinTech solutions, including digital wallets, peer-to-peer lending platforms, and microfinance services, offer a potential route to financial inclusion. Simultaneously, cryptocurrencies, by their decentralized nature, can provide an accessible alternative for individuals who struggle to access traditional banking services.

Consumer Demand

Mexico’s digital economy is growing, with increasing internet and smartphone penetration. The demand for digital financial solutions, from online banking and digital payments to investment platforms, is on the rise.

Furthermore, the younger demographics of Mexico are more open to adopting these new technologies, creating a vast user base for FinTech and crypto businesses. Crypto, in particular, is gaining popularity among millennials and Generation Z due to its potential for quick returns and its decentralized, global nature.

Crypto Climate

Despite regulatory uncertainty in many countries, Mexico’s attitude towards crypto has been mostly positive. While Banxico does not consider cryptocurrencies as legal tender, it acknowledges their use as a medium of exchange, unit of account, and store of value.

Mexico’s crypto market is rapidly growing, with several crypto exchanges operating in the country. Mexicans use cryptocurrencies for various purposes, including remittances, a sector where cryptocurrencies can offer quicker and cheaper cross-border transfers.

However, it’s important to note that crypto businesses must adhere to strict regulations, particularly concerning money laundering and customer protection. Crypto businesses planning to launch in Mexico should prepare for rigorous compliance procedures, including getting authorization from Banxico and implementing robust KYC (Know Your Customer) protocols.

Market Demand for Fintech and Crypto Businesses

The market for FinTech companies in Mexico has grown significantly in recent years, fueled by a convergence of economic, technological, and demographic factors. As of 2021, Mexico is considered the leader in the FinTech ecosystem in Latin America, boasting the largest number of FinTech startups in the region. This has primarily been spurred by the demand for digital financial services, which are more inclusive, efficient, and user-friendly compared to traditional banking methods.

Market Landscape

Mexico’s FinTech market is diverse, with companies specializing in a wide array of services such as digital banking, payments and remittances, insurance (InsurTech), personal finance, crowdfunding, and blockchain technology. Each of these sectors caters to different user needs, from offering unbanked populations access to financial services to providing small businesses with efficient and cost-effective banking solutions.

Significant progress has been made in regulations too, making Mexico an attractive location for FinTech innovation. In 2018, Mexico became the first country in Latin America to enact a FinTech law, aimed at promoting financial stability and defending against money laundering, while also nurturing innovation and competition in the financial sector.

Demand Drivers

A critical demand driver for FinTech companies in Mexico is financial inclusion. A sizable proportion of Mexico’s population remains unbanked or underbanked. Traditional banks often have stringent requirements or high fees that many citizens can’t meet. FinTech companies, with their flexible and accessible solutions, present an opportunity to address this issue by offering services such as mobile banking, microloans, and digital wallets.

Digital remittances have also emerged as a significant market, with Mexico being one of the largest remittance-receiving countries in the world. FinTech solutions for quick, cost-effective cross-border transfers are in high demand, opening up opportunities for startups in this field.

In addition, Mexico’s thriving e-commerce market is driving demand for digital payments solutions. Consumers are increasingly turning to online shopping, necessitating secure, efficient payment systems that traditional banking often fails to deliver.

Finally, Mexico’s young, tech-savvy population contributes to the increasing demand. With one of the youngest demographics in Latin America and high smartphone penetration, Mexico’s population is well-positioned to adopt digital financial services.

Conclusion

The combination of a growing need for financial inclusion, increasing digitalization, a thriving e-commerce sector, and a young, tech-oriented population sets the stage for substantial growth in Mexico’s FinTech market. As traditional banks struggle to meet evolving consumer needs, FinTech companies can step in to fill the gaps, leveraging technology to provide more accessible, affordable, and efficient financial solutions. Given these conditions, Mexico’s FinTech market presents considerable opportunities for existing companies and new entrants alike.

Mexico’s burgeoning FinTech and crypto sectors reflect the country’s broader commitment to embracing digital transformation and promoting financial inclusion. The favorable regulatory landscape, coupled with untapped market potential and increasing consumer demand, creates a fertile environment for FinTech and crypto businesses.

While challenges remain, including refining the regulatory framework and improving digital infrastructure, the momentum is clearly with FinTech and crypto. As these sectors continue to evolve, Mexico is well-positioned to be a leader in the FinTech and crypto revolution in Latin America.

For more information on where I recommend you set up a Fintech, financial services, or crypto business in Mexico, please have a read through Where to do Business in Mexico as a Fintech, Financial Services, or Crypto Company. For more on the suggested structure, see Incorporating a Financial Services Company in Mexico – the Mexican SOFOM.I hope you’ve found this article helpful. For more information on setting up a business in Mexico, and on forming a SOFOM, please contact me at info@premieroffshore.com

where to do business in Mexico
Christian Reeves

Where to do Business in Mexico as a Fintech, Financial Services, or Crypto Company

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In this post, I’ll explain why I believe Tijuana is the best business city in Mexico in which to set up a fintech, financial services, or crypto business. I’ve traveled and done business throughout Mexico for over 20 years and can say without a doubt that Tijuana is the most efficient option for setting up a fintech business. Here’s why. 

Mexico’s burgeoning FinTech landscape is diverse, innovative, and geographically rich, with Tijuana emerging as the city of choice for setting up a FinTech business. Here, a confluence of strategic location, global business acceptance, linguistic proficiency, cost efficiency, and regulatory allowances merge to create an environment that is uniquely supportive of FinTech growth. Let’s dissect why Tijuana is the best city in Mexico for FinTech enterprises.

Proximity to the U.S. Borde

Tijuana’s strategic location, sitting just across the border from the United States, renders it a natural nexus between two significant economies. This proximity is not just geographical but also deeply intertwined within the fabric of business and culture in the region, offering enormous benefits to the FinTech sector.

Being adjacent to the United States, Tijuana is ideal for businesses targeting a cross-border audience. With easy access to the U.S. market, FinTech companies in Tijuana can exploit the advantages of both countries, navigating market trends, consumer behaviors, and regulatory landscapes with ease. Furthermore, the proximity enables a seamless flow of knowledge, technology, and talent between the two nations, thereby fostering innovation and growth.

Accepting of International Businesses and Investors

Tijuana’s open-door policy towards international businesses makes it a hotbed for globalization. The city’s economic policies are geared towards attracting foreign investment, boosting its global competitiveness, and enhancing its status as a cosmopolitan city. For FinTech businesses, this translates into a supportive, innovation-driven environment that fosters both domestic and international success.

Moreover, Tijuana is home to numerous international tech conferences and events, encouraging networking and collaboration. Such gatherings generate opportunities for FinTech startups to forge partnerships, secure investments, and enhance their global visibility.

Ease of Finding English-Speaking Workers

With a large percentage of its population bilingual in English and Spanish, Tijuana offers a considerable advantage for FinTech companies. English proficiency is a critical factor in the global FinTech landscape, and having access to a skilled, English-speaking workforce is crucial for businesses that wish to operate on an international level.

Why are there so many English speakers in Tijuana compared to other large cities in Mexico? First, many of the people deported from the Western United States end up in Tijuana. They need jobs and have excellent English skills. Second, many in Tijuana middle class have US visas and families in America. They learned English from a young age and travel to San Diego frequently. 

Cost of Labor Compared to the U.S.

Labor costs in Tijuana are significantly lower than in the United States, even though the level of skills and expertise can be comparable. This cost advantage makes Tijuana an attractive location for FinTech startups looking to operate lean while maintaining high-quality services. By reducing the labor cost burden, companies can invest more in product development, marketing, and other critical areas to boost their competitiveness and growth.

Ability to set up a SOFOM (Sociedad Financiera de Objeto Múltiple)

In Mexico, FinTech companies have the option to establish themselves as a SOFOM – a non-bank financial entity that can operate in Baja and the rest of Mexico. This legal entity, dedicated to providing loans and credit, offers the opportunity to conduct financial operations without the need for a traditional banking license.

Setting up a SOFOM in Tijuana means your FinTech business can operate across Baja California and Mexico as a whole, delivering financial services and innovative solutions to a broad and diverse market. Additionally, the ability to set up a SOFOM underscores the flexibility and supportiveness of Mexico’s regulatory landscape towards the FinTech sector.

About Tijuana

Tijuana, an eclectic border city that melds Mexican culture with a dynamic international influence, is a bustling metropolis that attracts people from across the globe. Known for its vibrant cultural scene and burgeoning economic potential, Tijuana is a fascinating city that holds promise for the future. Here’s an overview of Tijuana’s size, population, and demographics.

Size and Location

Tijuana is situated in the Baja California Peninsula, the second-longest peninsula in the world, right at Mexico’s border with the United States. It is the largest city in the state of Baja California and covers an area of around 637 square kilometers.

The city’s strategic location on the U.S.-Mexico border plays a significant role in shaping its economic, cultural, and demographic makeup. Its proximity to San Diego, with which it forms an international metropolitan area, gives it a unique cross-border characteristic.

Population

As of 2023, the estimated population of Tijuana is over 1.8 million people, making it the sixth-largest city in Mexico. The population has seen substantial growth over the past few decades, largely fueled by internal migration from other parts of Mexico and an influx of international immigrants, particularly from the U.S., China, and the rest of Latin America.

The city has a high population density due to its role as a regional hub for employment, culture, and commerce. It also serves as a magnet for individuals and families seeking opportunities in the bustling border economy.

Demographics

Tijuana boasts a diverse demographic makeup, contributing to its rich cultural fabric. The majority of Tijuana’s inhabitants are of Mexican descent, but there’s a significant presence of residents with international roots, primarily from the United States, China, and other Latin American countries.

The age distribution of Tijuana tends to skew younger, aligning with the general trend in Mexico. The city’s median age is in the late twenties, a testament to the youthful energy that drives Tijuana’s economic and cultural dynamism. This young demographic is critical to the city’s labor force and its potential for innovation and growth.

Given its border location, a significant proportion of Tijuana’s population is bilingual, with proficiency in both Spanish and English. This linguistic capability is a valuable asset, particularly in the business and service sectors, fostering cross-border commerce and cultural exchange.

In terms of socioeconomic status, Tijuana exhibits a broad spectrum. The city houses affluent neighborhoods with high-income households, alongside areas characterized by lower income levels. Over the years, economic development efforts have been aimed at addressing these disparities and promoting inclusive growth.

The Bottom Line

Tijuana’s unique blend of size, population, and demographics creates a lively and dynamic city that serves as a nexus of cultures, economies, and opportunities. With its strategic border location, youthful population, and rich cultural diversity, Tijuana offers a vibrant environment ripe for economic growth and international collaboration. As Mexico continues to progress, the city of Tijuana is poised to play a significant role in the nation’s journey toward a prosperous future.

Conclusion

Tijuana’s strategic location, supportive environment for international business, English-speaking talent, competitive labor costs, and legal flexibility make it an ideal setting for a thriving FinTech business. By harnessing these attributes, FinTech entrepreneurs in Tijuana are well-positioned to drive innovation, foster growth, and pave the way for a robust, future-proof financial landscape in Mexico.


I hope you’ve found this article helpful. For more on setting up a fintech, financial services business, or crypto company in Tijuana, or on incorporating a SOFOM, please contact me at info@banklicense.pro