Meet the speaker
Robert Aguilar
President,
Cabrera Capital Markets
Robert Aguilar is the President of Cabrera Capital Markets (CCM), a global investment bank and institutional brokerage firm, and Cabrera Capital Partners (CCP), a real estate development and investment firm. Since being founded in 2001 and 2005, the two companies have emerged as industry leaders, known for their unwavering commitment to integrity, innovation, and client satisfaction.
Robert helped start Cabrera Capital in 2001 and officially joined in 2003, assuming the dual role of Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer. He became President of CCM and CCP in 2023. In these roles he exhibited an unparalleled dedication to excellence for clients and a keen eye for identifying opportunities to propel the company forward. Leveraging his profound understanding of finance and operations, Robert was instrumental in driving two decades of exponential growth, expanding the firm’s client base, diversifying its services, and establishing its global presence.
Under Robert's leadership, CCM has flourished within the investment banking and institutional brokerage business. Through innovative product offerings, and a relentless focus on client relationships, Robert’s initiatives resulted in the firm’s ability to consistently surpass performance targets. Simultaneously, CCP has thrived under his guidance, spearheading groundbreaking real estate developments that create enduring value like the 33-acre redevelopment project underway on Chicago’s Southwest side.
As a Chicago native and a product of the public education system, Robert is passionate about giving back to his local community and its schools. Robert currently serves as a member of the Chicago Public Media Board of Directors, the Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus Foundation Board of Directors, and the Chicago Blackhawks Society. He has previously served as a member of the U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission’s Advisory Committee on Small and Emerging Companies and Board Treasurer for La Rabida Children’s Hospital, Chicago United, and the Chicago Parks Foundation. He was recognized as a Chicago United Business Leader of Color in 2011 and featured as one of Crain’s Notable Latino Leaders in 2024.
Robert holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business and a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from Northern Illinois University.
He has been featured in news publications that include The Chicago Tribune, Bloomberg, and Negocios Now.

