Sao Paulo, the capital of Sao Paulo state, is the largest city in Brazil and the largest and most prosperous city in South America. Renowned as an international metropolis, the city covers an area of 1,522 square kilometers and has a population of 12.4 million. Sao Paulo serves as the financial center of Brazil and Latin America. It is home to the headquarters of major international banks as well as the headquarters of major domestic banks in Brazil. The city boasts a well-developed and comprehensive banking system. Its industrial sector is primarily focused on metallurgy, machinery, automobiles, and power. In Sao Paulo, there are prestigious universities such as the University of Sao Paulo, Pontifical Catholic University of Sao Paulo, Medical University, and a wide array of other prestigious universities and specialized colleges.