Donald Trump promised on Day 1 to seize the Panama Canal. “We’re taking it back,” the US president declared in his inaugural address. Within weeks, Wall Street billionaire Larry Fink was on the line with the White House.

Panama Canal, following pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump to reduce Chinese influence in the region. The deal involves the sale of 90% of Panama Ports Co., the company responsible for managing the Balboa and Cristobal entries,

Often a political punching bag for MAGA Republicans, asset manager BlackRock may have bought some conservative credibility along with its purchase of two critical ports on both sides of the Panama Canal.