In Hong Kong, we build a global business empire

Chapter 812 The Mad Harvard Students
As the meeting drew to a close, Buffett closed his notebook and said sincerely, "Mr. Lin, today's conversation has been incredibly beneficial. You not only answered my questions, but more importantly, you've given me a clearer plan for my future investment strategy."

He solemnly added, "Your accurate judgment of market trends and your grasp of investment timing have greatly inspired me, especially your analysis of the investment value of the technology sector, which has opened up a completely new perspective for me."

Lin Haoran responded modestly with a smile: "Mr. Buffett, you flatter me. The key to investing lies in continuous learning and adapting to change. Your ability to accept new investment concepts with such an open mind is truly admirable."

Most importantly, these are just my personal opinions at this point, and what I say may not be correct. Your praise is a bit premature.

As a time traveler, he naturally knew that all of this was true.

But he couldn't act as if he already knew the ending, because that would make him seem like a charlatan.

Buffett shook his head seriously: "No, my intuition tells me that your judgment is likely correct. At the very least, the analytical framework and perspective you provided are invaluable."

He stood up and shook hands with Lin Haoran firmly again. "Mr. Lin, I look forward to our next meeting. By then, I hope I will have made the right plans based on what I have learned today."

"I believe you will," Lin Haoran said with a smile as he bid farewell to Buffett.

Buffett nodded, then suddenly seemed to remember something, his tone becoming unusually serious: "Mr. Lin, I have a request. I hope you can serve as a special investment advisor for Berkshire Hathaway, especially in investment decisions in the technology sector. I hope to frequently seek your professional advice."

This invitation surprised Guo Xiaohan, who was standing to the side.

She knew what an honor it was in the investment world to be personally invited by Buffett to serve as an advisor.

Lin Haoran pondered for a moment and calmly replied, "As a Berkshire Hathaway shareholder and director, I should contribute to the company's development. I am happy to offer advice on investment decisions, but there is no need to be bound by formalities."

As for special investment advisors, forget it. You know I have many businesses under my umbrella, and I can't possibly spend too much time on Berkshire Hathaway. I don't have the energy for it. We'll just maintain close communication.

Upon hearing this, Buffett smiled with satisfaction: "That's perfect. I believe that with your guidance, Berkshire Hathaway will be able to seize the opportunities in this new era. Mr. Lin, now that I have achieved my purpose in visiting you, I will not stay any longer. I am about to head to the airport to return to Omaha."

Lin Haoran was surprised that Buffett was in such a hurry to go back, but he did not try to persuade him to stay.

He simply nodded understandingly: "It seems Mr. Buffett already has a plan in mind and can't wait to go back and make arrangements."

Buffett made no attempt to hide his excitement, saying, "Exactly! A single conversation with Mr. Lin is worth more than reading ten years' worth of reports."

Many previously vague ideas have become clear, and many hesitant decisions have gained direction. The market waits for no one; I must seize the time.

Before parting, Buffett once again shook hands with Lin Haoran: "After returning to Omaha, I will immediately begin to adjust the investment portfolio, and I look forward to discussing specific investment plans in depth at the next board meeting."

That's what they say, but in reality, Lin Haoran has never attended a Berkshire Hathaway board meeting.

He had already made it clear to Buffett that although he agreed to become a director of Berkshire Hathaway, it would only be a nominal position, and he did not need a real position at Berkshire Hathaway.

Berkshire Hathaway is not yet a business giant, and it is not worth him frequently traveling to a small city in the United States to hold a meeting.

At this moment, Buffett didn't want to stay a moment longer. He couldn't wait to get back to the company, hold an emergency meeting, and put the valuable insights he had gained from Lin Haoran into practice.

After Buffett and his assistant left, the private room returned to silence.

Guo Xiaohan finally couldn't help but let out a long sigh of relief, her face flushed with excitement: "Brother Haoran, you're amazing! My palms were sweating from nervousness just now."

Did you see Mr. Buffett's expression? When he looked at you, his eyes were full of admiration and approval!

Lin Haoran looked out the window, seemingly lost in thought, and said, "Xiaohan, this illustrates a point: in the world of investment, no one can stay at the top forever."

Only by remaining humble and continuously learning can we keep pace with the times.

He turned to Guo Xiaohan and said, "Mr. Buffett's most valuable quality is not his past achievements, but his constant thirst for knowledge."

This is the real reason why he has been able to weather multiple economic cycles, remain steadfast, and achieve worldwide renown.

Guo Xiaohan nodded earnestly, keeping Lin Haoran's words firmly in mind.

She looked at the man in front of her, who was only two years older than her. He not only had amazing business acumen, but his insight into people and things always benefited her greatly.

“I understand,” she said softly. “Just like you said, the key to investing is continuous learning and adapting to change.”

“Alright, we’ve eaten and drunk our fill. Let’s get ready to head to Harvard University. Mr. Li said that Citibank might be holding a board meeting soon. This meeting is very important and crucial, and I have to attend. So I won’t be staying in Boston for more than a few days.” Lin Haoran said, holding her hand.

"Okay," Guo Xiaohan replied obediently, but a hint of reluctance flashed in her eyes.

The winter in Boston was so wonderful that she almost wanted to stay in that journey alone with Lin Haoran forever.

Lin Haoran noticed her emotions and gently put his arm around her shoulder: "After I finish dealing with things here in New York, we'll fly straight to Hawaii and take you on a nice vacation."

I heard this is the most comfortable time of year in Hawaii.

Guo Xiaohan's eyes lit up immediately: "Really? I've always wanted to go to Hawaii!"

"Of course." Lin Haoran gently stroked her hair. "You've worked hard these past few days, you deserve to relax."

After quickly packing up, the two left the hotel.

The car was still driven by Li Weidong from New York; it was an armored Lincoln, and Li Weiguo was sitting in the passenger seat.

No matter where he goes, Lin Haoran always believes that safety is the top priority.

Especially in a world where the competition for capital is becoming increasingly fierce, it's always better to be cautious.

Once inside the car, Lin Haoran instructed Li Weidong, "Go to Harvard Business School."

The car slowly drove into the streets of Boston, and the winter sun shone through the windows, casting dappled shadows inside the car.

Guo Xiaohan gazed at the ancient buildings flashing past the window, then suddenly remembered something: "Brother Haoran, what do you think Mr. Buffett will do after he returns to Omaha?"

Lin Haoran smiled slightly: "If I'm not mistaken, he will do three things: First, he will start to gradually reduce his holdings of traditional industry stocks that are more affected by high interest rates;
Second, increase cash reserves;
Third, and most importantly, he will begin to seriously study technology companies and plan for the future.

"But he kept saying he wouldn't invest in industries he didn't understand..."

“So he will spend a lot of time learning about it.” Lin Haoran said with a deep look in his eyes, “That’s what makes Buffett so great. Once he’s identified a direction, he will study it more attentively and diligently than anyone else.”

Perhaps in less than a year, his understanding of the tech industry will surpass that of most analysts.

Guo Xiaohan nodded thoughtfully.

Not long after, the Lincoln slowly drove into the gates of Harvard University and finally came to a stop on a tree-lined road near Harvard Garden.

The winter sun shines through the bare branches, casting dappled shadows on the ancient brick path.

Lin Haoran and Guo Xiaohan got out of the car. He deliberately put on a pair of brown sunglasses and lowered the brim of his hat. He waved to the Li Weiguo brothers, indicating that they should just follow from a distance.

The campus is safer than the street, after all, the security guard checked the car inside and out when they came in.

The security measures at this global university are quite strict, which actually made Lin Haoran feel at ease.

He took Guo Xiaohan's hand and blended into the crowd on campus like an ordinary visitor.

"Just take a stroll," Lin Haoran said to Guo Xiaohan in a relaxed tone. "Get a feel for the atmosphere of this ancient university."

The two mingled with the small groups of students, appearing as if they were just an ordinary couple or tourists visiting the area, or even students themselves.

At this moment, he shed the sharp and domineering aura of a business tycoon, and also restrained the composure he displayed when talking with Buffett; he seemed more like a young man enjoying his leisure time.

Guo Xiaohan nestled beside him, looking around happily.

The red brick building was covered with withered vines, telling the story of the passage of time;

Students carrying books hurried along, their brows displaying the confidence and busyness characteristic of elite universities.

“This place is truly beautiful.” Guo Xiaohan took a deep breath of the crisp, cool air, looking at the ancient red-brick buildings around her. “It has a more profound sense of history than Princeton.”

Harvard University was founded in 1636, and by 1981, it had been 345 years old.

In 1636, China was still in the ninth year of the Chongzhen Emperor's reign in the Ming Dynasty, eight years before the Ming Dynasty was about to fall.

In fact, the United States of America had not even been formally established in 1636.

This historical accumulation spanning several centuries is indeed unmatched by other young universities.

“Yes,” Lin Haoran agreed, his gaze sweeping over the ancient buildings that had witnessed the War of Independence and the Civil War.

"Every brick and tile here is steeped in history. Just think, how many decisions and ideas that have influenced the course of the world originated here."

Lin Haoran smiled and pointed to the magnificent Widener Library not far away, continuing, "A temple of knowledge, and also a cradle of ambition."

His tone carried a hint of appreciation, as well as a hint of understanding.

The two strolled leisurely, discussing the surrounding architectural styles and interesting historical anecdotes about Harvard, enjoying this rare moment of tranquility and time alone together.

At this moment, no one noticed that this young Asian man in a casual jacket and sunglasses was the mysterious figure who had recently caused a stir on Wall Street and even prompted Warren Buffett to seek his advice.

They strolled along the winding paths, occasionally stopping to admire the unique design of a particular building.

In the center of Harvard Garden, they saw a seated statue of John Harvard, its left foot polished smooth by countless visitors.

John Harvard was not actually the founder of Harvard University, but a pastor in Charlestown, Massachusetts.

Before his death, he bequeathed half of his property and all his books to the newly established college across the river. This was the largest donation the college had ever received.

In gratitude, the school decided to name the college, which was not yet officially named, Harvard College, which later became Harvard University.

"It's said that touching his feet brings good luck," Guo Xiaohan said with a smile, and then stepped forward and gently touched them as well.

Lin Haoran stood in front of the bronze statue, lost in thought: "Actually, there is an interesting fallacy in this statue. It was not sculpted according to John Harvard's own image, because no portrait of him was left at the time."

Furthermore, Harvard University was founded in 1636, two years earlier than John Harvard's donation of his fortune in 1638.

"How do you even know this?" Guo Xiaohan asked in surprise.

"I did some research before I came," Lin Haoran smiled slightly. "Understanding the history of a place helps us better understand its present."

Just as they were immersed in the historical atmosphere of the campus, an Asian student with the Wall Street Journal and a finance textbook tucked under his arm suddenly stopped and pushed up his glasses in disbelief.

His gaze was fixed on Lin Haoran's profile and figure, as if drawn by a magnet.

A look of disbelief flashed across the young man's face. He then frantically pulled out the newspaper tucked on top of his textbook and quickly glanced at the front page. There, he saw a not-so-clear but distinctive photograph of Lin Haoran taken when he was surrounded by reporters in New York.

He compared the photo in the newspaper with the man in sunglasses in front of him, his breathing suddenly became rapid, and his eyes widened.

"Oh... Oh My God! Lin! Lin Haoran!!! Is that you?"

A gasp, distorted by extreme excitement, shattered the tranquility of Harvard Garden.

The student almost uncontrollably rushed to Lin Haoran, completely ignoring Guo Xiaohan beside him, his face a mixture of ecstasy, admiration, and disbelief.

"Mr. Lin! It really is you! You are my idol! You became an executive director of Citibank and a global business tycoon at such a young age, despite not being an American citizen!"
Furthermore, our professors have repeatedly analyzed the numerous successful business battles you've experienced over the years in class!

The student was so excited that he was incoherent and frantically rummaged through his backpack.

Finally, he pulled out a worn-out copy of "Principles of Investment" and a pen, eagerly handing them to Lin Haoran with both hands, his voice trembling: "Please, please, you must sign this for me! Sign it on, sign it on the first page!"

Lin Haoran was clearly taken aback by this sudden situation, but only for a moment.

He calmly took off his sunglasses, revealing a face that had appeared in the newspaper, now looking even younger and more authentic.

He gave a gentle, even slightly helpless smile as he took the book and pen.

“Of course.” His voice was calm, a stark contrast to the excitement of the student opposite him.

He skillfully signed his name on the designated page, his handwriting elegant and powerful.

The signing of the autograph and the exclamation of "Lin Haoran" served as the best rallying cry.

It was right at the end of get out of class time, and there were quite a few students walking around the campus.

The students who were going about their business were all drawn to the commotion and stopped in their tracks.

As keywords such as "Executive Director of Citibank" and "Global Business Tycoon" spread rapidly among the crowd, curious glances quickly turned into surprise and excitement, eventually culminating in a frenzied trend.

"It really is him! Lin Haoran!"

"My God, he looks even younger than he does in the newspapers!"

"Look! It's Lin, the one who predicted the oil crisis, stockpiled large amounts of crude oil in advance, and ultimately made a fortune!"

In less than a minute, a crowd gathered from all directions.

Lin Haoran has only recently appeared in various media outlets, newspapers, magazines, and television, yet he has already sparked heated discussions on campuses across the country, including Harvard University.

At this moment, these elite students, who are usually known for their composure and calmness, are now rushing towards Lin Haoran like fans of a celebrity.

The once spacious path was instantly blocked.

Students raised their books, cameras, and some even pulled out portable video cameras, which were still quite rare in this era, to record this precious moment.

However, students who can attend Harvard University are of exceptional quality, and although excited, the crowd did not lose control.

They maintained order spontaneously, but everyone's eyes shone with a thirst for knowledge and a sense of awe.

Several business school students, wearing dark red hoodies emblazoned with the "HBS" logo, pushed their way to the front, their faces beaming with undisguised admiration.
"Mr. Lin! We use several M&A cases you handled as templates in our financial modeling course!"

"Mr. Lin, why did you suddenly come to Harvard University? Was it at your invitation?"

"Mr. Lin, you are younger than I imagined. It's hard to believe that you and I are not much different in age, yet you have achieved such brilliant success in the business world. What's your secret?"

"Mr. Lin, what is your opinion on the series of policies implemented by President Reagan this year? Do you think these policies can realize our American Dream?"

……

The crowd grew larger and larger, forming layers upon layers, tightly surrounding Lin Haoran, Guo Xiaohan, and the quick-thinking Li Weidong and Li Weiguo in the center.

Requests for autographs and photos came in like snowflakes.

Notebooks, textbooks, and even someone taking off their coat and handing it to you, or exposing their snow-white belly.

Lin Haoran maintained his composure and patience throughout. Although he did not answer the questions raised by the students, he fulfilled the autograph requests of these future elites one by one.

Guo Xiaohan was startled by the sudden scene and took a step back, but was quickly pushed to the outer edge by the enthusiastic students.

She looked at Lin Haoran, who was surrounded by people but remained calm and composed, and a helpless yet proud smile appeared on her face.

"Mr. Lin, how did you do that? How did you achieve such amazing success at such a young age?" a bespectacled student with a scholarly air asked loudly.

Lin Haoran had just finished signing a name when he looked up, his gaze sweeping over the young and energetic faces around him. He smiled humbly and sincerely: "Opportunity, hard work, plus some independent thinking about market rules."

You are receiving the best education in the world at Harvard; your future is equally limitless.

As soon as Lin Haoran finished speaking, Li Weidong had already moved closer to him without making a sound, and said in a low voice, "Boss, there are more and more people. If we stay any longer, it may be difficult to get away."

Lin Haoran nodded slightly, then raised his voice and said gently to the students around him, "Dear students, thank you very much for your enthusiasm. I originally just wanted to quietly tour this beautiful campus and experience the academic atmosphere of Harvard."

If everyone continues to gather here, it will likely obstruct the passage of other teachers and students.

He looked around, his gaze sincere: "How about this, please make way for us so we can leave. I believe that true communication is not about being a bystander for a short while, but about our outstanding performance in our respective fields in the future."

These words were reasonable and persuasive, and the Harvard students present nodded in agreement.

Someone shouted first, "Everyone, make way for Mr. Lin!"

Soon, the crowd began to move spontaneously to both sides, forming a passage.

Although everyone's face showed reluctance, especially those students who hadn't yet received autographs, they still maintained an elegant order.

Several students even volunteered to help maintain order, signaling to those behind them not to push forward.

"Thank you for your understanding." Lin Haoran smiled and nodded to the students on both sides, then naturally took Guo Xiaohan's hand and walked out under the protection of Li Weidong and Li Weiguo.

Students were still taking pictures along the way, but no one stepped forward to stop them.

A girl wearing a scarf with the Harvard badge exclaimed, "Mr. Lin, I'm a student from the business school. Your success is something we can all learn from, and we hope you can come to Harvard to give a lecture sometime!"

Lin Haoran turned around and smiled, "I definitely will if I have the chance."

With the students' voluntary efforts to maintain order and the assistance of campus security guards who rushed to the scene, Lin Haoran and Guo Xiaohan were finally able to escape from the frenzied crowd.

When they finally emerged from the crowd and reached the relatively open square, Guo Xiaohan breathed a sigh of relief and patted her chest lightly: "That was really scary! I almost thought we were going to be trapped there."

Li Weidong looked around warily: "Boss, we'd better leave the campus as soon as possible. The commotion was too loud, and there might be people coming after us."

Lin Haoran nodded, but then said calmly, "No need to be too nervous. Harvard students know how to behave."

As we walked toward the parking lot, students continued to follow, but they no longer blocked our way.

Once inside the car and with the door closed, shutting out the noise from outside, Lin Haoran finally breathed a sigh of relief.

Guo Xiaohan looked at him and couldn't help but burst out laughing: "Brother Haoran, your 'low-key tour' plan didn't go very well."

Lin Haoran shrugged helplessly, took off his hat, and rubbed his slightly sore wrist: "Looks like it won't be easy to stroll around campus quietly from now on."

The car slowly started and drove away from Harvard Garden, where discussions were still raging.

Lin Haoran gazed at the rapidly receding campus scenery outside the window, a thoughtful look flashing in his eyes.

"Brother Haoran, what are you thinking about?" Guo Xiaohan asked softly.

Lin Haoran pondered, “I think that among these young people, there may be future Buffetts, Rockefellers, and Walter Ristols. It is their good fortune to be able to come into contact with the most cutting-edge investment concepts at this age, and it is also the good fortune of this era.”

Guo Xiaohan nodded thoughtfully, then smiled playfully: "But the luckiest people today should be those students who got your autograph."

(End of this chapter)