Brookfield Asset Management Inc. is an asset management company headquartered in Toronto, Canada. The company was founded in 1899, as the São Paulo Tramway, Light and Power Company by William Mackenzie and Frederick Stark Pearson.
In the beginning, it was engaged in construction and operating the electricity and transport infrastructure in Brazil, providing electricity and tram services in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.
In 1912 Brazilian Traction, Light and Power Company Limited was incorporated as a public company in Toronto and became a holding company engaged in the development of hydroelectric power operations and other utility services in Brazil.
In 1966 Brazilian Traction, Light and Power Company Limited changed its name to Brazilian Light and Power Company Limited, and then to Brascan Limited, in 1969. The name ”Brascan” reflected the history of the company which involves the states ”Brazil” and ”Canada”.
The name of Brookfield Asset Management was adopted in 2005. The company operates through the following business segments: Real Estate, Infrastructure, Renewable Power, Private Equity, and Oaktree.
According to companieshistory.com