The Tyrant Billionaire

John Ston, being a seasoned banker, recognized the potential of HSBC, which was why he valued the opportunity.

"But why would they want to sell shares?" Hardy asked.

"I’m not sure. Perhaps they want to bring in a stronger partner to expand their operations, possibly into the U.S. or other European countries," John Ston speculated.

Hardy wasn’t convinced by this reasoning.

He had another opinion on the matter. At this time, most capitalists weren’t paying much attention to the East, but that was precisely where Hardy’s focus lay, once the U.S. decides to open the Japan market, the Asian economy will change drastically.

During World War II, HSBC had been seized by the Japanese, and all of its assets were confiscated, dealing a severe blow to the bank. After the war, they resumed operations, but Britain was no longer as intimidating as it used to, so the Chinese finally showed their true corrupt nature and started hacking the British companies in their area’s.

With the sterotype resentment and jalousy the Chinese people naturally held toward the rich and the exploitation of the Chinese government, HSBC’s major investments in China were in dire straits.

Additionally, several HSBC branches had been once again robbed and forced to close by the new Chinese Communist Party leading the revolution that was no better than the one already rulling China. Many HSBC executives, seeing the animalistic behavior done by these revolutionaries, decided to retreat to Hong Kong.

Another major concern was that Britain didn’t take any measures to protect its overseas companies, which led to businessmen doubting whether Britain still had interest on hold in Hong Kong.

HSBC, with its headquarters in Hong Kong, was undoubtedly affected by this atmosphere, possibly leading to a desire to escape. This was likely the real reason behind the sale of their shares.

In short, they wanted to sell shares to convert them into cash, reducing their risk.

That’s the essence of capitalism. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

"Who else is eyeing HSBC?" Hardy asked.

"Mr. David Rockefeller is also interested. He owns the Manhattan Bank and likely wants a stake in HSBC. I’ve heard he’s already reached out to the Sassoon family for talks," John Ston replied.

The Sassoon family.

Jews started with gangs, moneylending, and the and the slave trade, and they also took part in the founding of the East India Company and were also known as the biggest opium traders.

Hardy pondered for a few minutes, his mind racing with thoughts. He felt it was profitable to get involved in this deal.

Hardy had dealt with Jews before, and from his experience most Jews are similar; they are hypocrits, Coward, and Opportunist who like to make small sneaky moves. His philosophy on dealing with Jews is don’t partner with them if possible and if you have to. be ready for their backstab.

"John, get me a meeting with David Rockefeller. Tell him I have something important to discuss," Hardy instructed.

John Ston quickly made the call and returned shortly after, "Mr. Hardy, Mr. Rockefeller says he has time to meet now."

When Hardy met David Rockefeller, they shook hands warmly. The two found a spot in the hotel garden, and after a server brought them some tea and left, Hardy pulled out a box of cigars, offering one to David, who smiled and accepted.

During their previous meetings in Italy and France, the two had become friends. David Rockefeller had a deep interest in Hardy’s business philosophy. During their breaks, they would often sit and chat, with Hardy presenting various theories that intrigued Rockefeller.

To David, these ideas were fresh and insightful. It wasn’t unusual for someone to have investment skills and vision, but possessing a unique investment philosophy set a person apart, marking them as a potential leader of their time.

As a core member of the Rockefeller family, David had many capable individuals working under him, including university professors. Yet, when it came to certain issues and visions for the future, David found Hardy’s ideas bolder and surprisingly logical.

In David’s mind, Hardy was a visionary investor, and his respect for him grew with each encounter.

"Hardy, what did you want to discuss?" David Rockefeller asked.

"I heard you’re looking to invest in HSBC and have already contacted the Sassoon family?" Hardy asked directly.

"Are you also interested in HSBC?" David replied with a smile.

David wasn’t surprised by Hardy’s inquiry. After all, Hardy was now part of the banking world himself, with Wells Fargo rising rapidly under his ownership.

"How much do you know about the civil war in China?" Hardy didn’t answer directly but posed a different question.

"The civil war in China? I know a bit," David replied curiously.

"The Global Times has a branch in Hong Kong and correspondents stationed in China. Inflation in China is rampant, and the financial system is on the verge of collapse. The current Chinese president and his cabin are a bunch of incompetant fools; they are winning battles but losing the war slowly by pushing more hungry farmers to the comunist party, who are in fact pro-Soviets assuming they win.

The communist party with their communist system will eventually end up ruining their own economy even more.

"HSBC’s largest investments are in China, and with inflation and the ongoing war, I’ve heard that several branches have already closed. As the war progresses, even Hong Kong’s future is uncertain. I believe this is the main reason why the Sassoons are selling their shares—they fear their investments in China will become worthless."

Hardy paused to let his words sink in.

David furrowed his brows.

As the chairman of Manhattan Bank and a financial expert, Hardy’s words were enough to make David see the bigger picture. He now understood that the Sassoon family was looking for investors to bear the brunt of the risk.

"Hardy, thank you for the information. It seems I’ll need to reconsider this investment," David said, his face serious.

But Hardy shook his head.

"Don’t be so hasty. I haven’t finished. The reason I’m telling you all this is so you understand the risks involved. You can use this information to negotiate and drive the price down during your talks."

David looked at Hardy with a mixture of surprise and curiosity.

"You think this investment is still worth pursuing?"

"Yes."

Hardy answered confidently.