José Elías: The Welfare State Has Disappeared in Spain

Spanish businessman José Elías, owner of the frozen food chain La Sirena and Audax Renovables, has stated that the welfare state in Spain has disappeared. In an interview with Roca Podcast, Elías argued that current salary levels do not provide a genuine guarantee of wealth, leading to a situation where individuals may remain in poverty despite being employed.

These comments follow the approval of the most recent increase to the Minimum Interprofessional Wage (SMI) in February 2026. Elías contends that there is a significant gap between the promises made by the government and the actual quality of public services available to citizens.

Economic Outlook and Social Deterioration

Elías has expressed a bleak view of Spain’s social and economic trajectory. In a reflection shared on the social network X, he utilized the metaphor of the boiled frog to describe a slow economic and social deterioration that the population has normalized over time.

Como sociedad nos estamos cociendo a fuego lento. Y ni siquiera nos damos cuenta.

José Elías

The businessman, who is 49 years old, has used his platform and his podcast, Un Café Incapto con Jose, to discuss leadership and current affairs, frequently highlighting the obstacles faced by entrepreneurs and freelancers in the Spanish market.

Challenges for Entrepreneurs and Tax Administration

Elías has specifically criticized the operations of the Spanish Tax Agency (Hacienda). He claims that tax inspectors receive bonuses for opening files against entrepreneurs, which he suggests increases the risk for those creating employment.

The entrepreneur noted a discrepancy in how business owners are treated in Spain compared to other European markets. Elías operates companies in eight different countries, including an electric company, but asserts that Spain is the only jurisdiction where he feels he must prove his innocence as a businessman.

He further argued that there is a prevailing perception in Spain that the businessman is an explotador or exploiter. Despite these criticisms of the administration, Elías stated his firm support for the payment of taxes, emphasizing the importance of contributing to and sustaining the system.

Financial Standing and Business Portfolio

Elías remains a prominent figure in the Spanish business landscape. According to the 2025 Forbes list of the 100 richest Spaniards, his net worth was estimated at 650 million euros. This figure represents a decrease of 300 million euros compared to his 2024 valuation.

His business interests include:

• La Sirena, a frozen food retail chain.
• Audax Renovables, a company focused on renewable energy.
• Electric company operations spanning eight countries.

Born in the Sant Crist de Can Cabanyes neighborhood of Badalona, Elías frequently references his origins while discussing the current economic pressures facing the Spanish workforce and the perceived failure of the state to provide a sufficient safety net through current wage structures.