Learn English – word for “make money off of an event or situation/use situation as an opportunity for personal gain”

single-word-requests

I'm looking for a verb that has a similar meaning to monopolize, but in a different context. Specifically, a word that means to make money off of an event or situation/ to use the situation for personal gain. For example:

“Still, he shouldn’t monopolize our misfortune,” Mac replies.

“No, he shouldn’t,” Father answers.

“It’s not a tragedy to them. It’s a life-changing moment in history,” I add.

Father nods, agreeing with me. Mac sighs.

Because monopolize means:

to acquire, have, or exercise a monopoly of.

to obtain exclusive possession of; keep entirely to oneself:
http://www.dictionary.com/browse/monopolize?s=t

It does not fit properly in the sentence. What is another word I can use instead?

This question did provide a noun, but I need a verb that has a similar meaning, as opportunize is not a word.

(Onelook reverse dictionary provided no assistance)

Best Answer

From Merriam-Webster: Capitalize - intransitive verb: to gain by turning something to advantage (capitalize on an opponent's mistake)

In your example:

“Still, he shouldn’t capitalize upon our misfortune,” Mac replies.

“No, he shouldn’t,” Father answers.

“It’s not a tragedy to them. It’s a life-changing moment in history,” I add.

Father nods, agreeing with me. Mac sighs.