As America witnessed a political change, the nation is on its way to many more big changes in the coming days. But the context here? BlackRock is expanding its influence in private infrastructure by securing a majority stake in key Panama Canal ports. Months after acquiring Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) for $12.5 billion, BlackRock is shifting control of vital shipping terminals from Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison to U.S. ownership. Too much to digest? But not for this legend. For someone like Magic Johnson, who thrives on smart investments, he couldn’t hold himself to admire this great deal.

A few days back, President Donald Trump reignited a decades-old debate by announcing plans to reclaim the Panama Canal. Just as the world took notice, BlackRock made a bold move. The investment giant sealed a $22.8 billion deal to acquire 43 ports from CK Hutchison, including two critical Panama Canal terminals. And at the center of this acquisition is Adebayo Ogunlesi. A Nigerian-born businessman who defied the odds to come here trying to change the world for good. His journey mirrors that of NBA legend Magic Johnson. 

Magic took to X to celebrate Ogunlesi’s achievement, proving that greatness transcends backgrounds. Magic wrote, “Congratulations to Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) Chairman and CEO Adebayo Ogunlesi for this landmark partnership with BlackRock who bought GIP for $12.5B. With the purchase of the Panama Canal Ports, I’m looking forward to seeing what else BlackRock and Ogunlesi do within infrastructure space!” 

In this post, he not only congratulated Ogunlesi but also highlighted the significance of the Panama Canal port acquisition. Now Magic is keeping a close eye on this deal. This move shows how legends like Magic himself are increasingly recognizing the future influence of global investments. This foresight is what transformed him from a veteran worth $40 million into the leader of a billion-dollar empire today.

Magic Johnson and his multi-billion dollar empire

Magic Johnson’s path to becoming a billionaire is nothing short of legendary. When he first retired from the NBA in 1991, his net worth stood at $40 million. Fast forward to 2024, the five-time NBA champion is now worth $1.2 billion.

“All kids need is a little help, a little hope, and somebody who believes in them,” Magic once said. And these words are what reflect his approach to business and community upliftment. His first major business move was founding Magic Johnson Enterprises (MJE), not just to build wealth, but to create opportunities for underrepresented communities.

Magic became the first person to secure a franchise agreement with Starbucks, a deal that later earned him $100 million when he sold his shares. Then he helped bring Burger King, 24-Hour Fitness, TGI Fridays, Best Buy, and other major brands into underserved neighborhoods. He had massive ROI from all these investments. His ownership journey began nearly three decades ago with a 4.5% stake in the Los Angeles Lakers. He later sold for a reported $29 million.

Though there’s still much more beneath the surface. This will give you a glimpse into Magic Johnson’s sharp business acumen and strategic vision. His ability to spot opportunities, uplift communities, and build lasting wealth truly sets him apart.