Early Life
Lirio Albino Parisotto was born in Nova Bassano, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, on December 18, 1953. He grew up in a rural setting, helping his parents on their family farm. At a young age, he displayed an interest in business, which led him to pursue various opportunities, including selling items to his college colleagues. Parisotto initially studied medicine at the Universidade de Caxias do Sul (UCS), but eventually transitioned to a career in business.
Rise to Success
Parisotto's career began in the 1970s with a small plastics manufacturing business focused on producing videotape cassettes, which were in high demand at the time. In 1988, he founded Videolar, a video and audiotape company, and invested the profits in the stock market, which became the cornerstone of his wealth. He adopted a value investing approach, similar to Warren Buffett, and focused on long-term investments in companies in sectors like banking, electricity, mining, and steel. He later expanded Videolar's operations and diversified his investments, including a move into the petrochemical industry. In 2014, Parisotto and Videolar acquired Innova, a petrochemical company, forming Videolar-Innova.
Key Business Strategies
Key to Parisotto's success was a strategy that included building vertically integrated manufacturing operations, focusing on essential industrial products, and making strategic acquisitions. He also emphasized the importance of long-term thinking and a disciplined approach to investing. His portfolio is primarily comprised of companies that pay high dividends. Parisotto's investment philosophy centers on fundamental analysis and a 'buy and hold' strategy. He also expanded into energy and finance through diversified investments.
Philanthropy
Parisotto is involved in philanthropic initiatives, particularly in education, healthcare, and environmental conservation. He is known for his contributions to the protection of the Amazon rainforest.