Today, the elite is more concentrated, not less. According to a 2021 study by FUSADES (Fundación Salvadoreña para el Desarrollo Económico y Social), the top 1% of economic groups control 67% of private bank credit. The "14" families (or ~20 extended clans) control:

A classic example of the "coffee oligarchy." They control Café Sumbilla, one of the most recognized coffee brands in El Salvador, and have diversified into other agricultural exports.

Origin: Palestinian-Christian (Bethlehem). Power Base: Packaging & Logistics. The dark horse: They own Multienvases (the company that prints every cereal box, coffee bag, and beer label in the country). They also own major stakes in port logistics. They are the "best" because you never see their name, but you touch their product every day.

Distinct from the Murray-Meza branch (who operate the stores), the Simán family are the historical owners of the brand and hold significant influence in regional trade.

Estimated Net Worth: $550 Million Best known for: Televisión (Telecorporación Salvadoreña - TCS). The Regalados own Channel 2, 4, and 6. They have the "best" media monopoly in the country. Virtually every TV ad dollar flows through their broadcast towers. They also own the Grupo Latino de Radios.

A common misconception is that the "14 families" disappeared after the Peace Accords of 1992. In reality, they underwent a strategic evolution.