In Hong Kong, we build a global business empire

For outsiders, especially international media competitors, they are only surprised by how MediaCorp has the confidence and ability to challenge multiple regional rich lists in such a short period of time, but they can hardly see the deep foundation behind the alliance of the Lin and Guo families.

At this moment, the noise in the banquet hall gradually subsided, but the enthusiasm for the discussion remained undiminished.

After the initial shock, many journalists from Southeast Asia had complex expressions.

They both looked forward to the upcoming list and felt a certain resistance to it.

Why is it that the rich list of Southeast Asia is not published by their local media, but is defined and ranked by a Hong Kong media company?

A subtle emotion, mixed with feelings of regional pride being violated and commercial discourse being lost, began to take root in the hearts of some Southeast Asian journalists and some local entrepreneurs present.

Despite MediaCorp's claims of professionalism and international perspective, the label of "outsider" remains prominent.

They worry that the list might be biased by the perspective of Hong Kong or Lin Haoran personally.
Could a lack of understanding of the complex political and business relationships in the region, as well as the true wealth structure hidden beneath the surface, lead to distorted rankings or even unnecessary controversy?
However, Lin Haoran was unaware of these things.

Even if they knew, they didn't care about the opinions of these reporters.

His ambitions extend far beyond Asia; they encompass the entire globe!

So what do the complicated thoughts of the Nanyang journalists matter?
As Cui Zilong stepped off the stage, the press conference officially came to an end.

Just as Lin Haoran was saying goodbye to Bao Yugang, Governor Mai Lihao and others and preparing to leave, he was stopped by his sixth uncle.

"Haoran, wait a minute, I have something I want to talk to you about." Shao Yifu walked quickly to Lin Haoran's side, his tone somewhat complicated.

"Sixth Uncle, let's go to the office to talk," Lin Haoran said with a smile.

The two left the banquet hall one after the other and went directly to the general manager's office of the Peninsula Hotel.

This hotel now belongs to Lin Haoran's business, and the general manager was appointed by one of his companies long ago.

The two sat down, and Shao Yifu looked out the window at Victoria Harbour, feeling somewhat conflicted and unsure how to begin.

Lin Haoran smiled and said, "Sixth Uncle, given our relationship, you can just say whatever you want without beating around the bush."

Shao Yifu withdrew his gaze from Victoria Harbour and turned to Lin Haoran, his face showing a seriousness and struggle rarely seen on him.

He picked up the teapot and poured himself a cup, then took a sip, seemingly pondering his words.

Shao Yifu spoke slowly, trying to keep his tone calm, but the worry in his words could not be hidden: "Haoran, you just said that you want to transfer TVB's shares to Oriental Media Group. I have watched TVB grow from nothing to something, from small to big, just like my own child."

After giving up my film career, I devoted myself entirely to the television industry; it's not just my career, but also a deep-seated passion.

Lin Haoran did not interrupt, but listened quietly with an understanding smile on his face.

"TVB's success today is due to the unity of its members, its clear positioning, and its stable direction," Shao Yifu continued. "I am not afraid of competition or market changes, but I am most afraid of internal disagreements on direction."

When Lijia sold its shares and you took over, we had an understanding that you would not interfere with the daily operations.

This tacit understanding has always been maintained very well, and you've seen TVB's continued growth and prosperity.

He paused for a moment, looking directly at Lin Haoran: "But today, you transferred your shares to the newly established Oriental Media Group. It's not that I don't trust you, it's just that with the group's operation and the goal of 'influencing the world,' TVB, as the most important television platform, will inevitably become the core of the strategy."

At that time, will there be a conflict between the strategic needs of your Oriental Media Group and the development pace of TVB itself?

As the chairman of the board, can I still run TVB according to my own ideas and pace, just like I do now?

Shao Yifu's words were very straightforward, even somewhat sharp.

But that's just his style, and a true expression of his deep affection for TVB.

He didn't want to be suspicious, but he also didn't want to wait until problems arose before trying to solve them.

After listening, Lin Haoran gently put down his teacup, his smile becoming even more gentle.

"Uncle Liu," his voice was calm and sincere, "I completely understand your concerns. If it were me, and a major shareholder suddenly wanted to make such adjustments to my hard-earned business, I would also worry and overthink it."

He paused for a moment, looked at Shao Yifu, and said solemnly, "But please believe me, my attitude towards TVB has never changed from beginning to end."

When I invested in TVB, I was drawn to its unparalleled influence in the Chinese-speaking world and its immense value as a platform for public opinion.

What I need is 'influence,' not 'management power.'

"The transfer of equity to MediaCorp is for better resource integration and strategic synergy," Lin Haoran explained. "For example, MediaCorp can work together with TVB in news content, data analysis, and even overseas expansion in the future."

TVB can receive support from MediaCorp in terms of content, technology, and funding, while the MediaCorp can leverage TVB's powerful broadcasting platform to expand the reach and influence of its content.

This is something where 1+1 is greater than 2.

"As for control and management interference," Lin Haoran shook his head, his tone firm, "Sixth Uncle, you're overthinking it. I, Lin Haoran, have always been committed to keeping my promises and being trustworthy."

The promise not to interfere with daily operations remains valid today, and this commitment will not change regardless of whether the shares are registered under an individual's name or the group's name.

Oriental Media Group, including Choi Chi-lung, will respect TVB's existing management team and operating model.

You remain the helmsman of TVB, and that will not change.

He looked into Shao Yifu's eyes and added, "Furthermore, from a legal and corporate bylaws perspective, we can further clarify and solidify your management authority."

If necessary, we can sign a supplementary agreement to ensure your decision-making autonomy.

My investment in TVB is an investment in you, Uncle Six, the team you lead, and the TVB brand and platform.

I will not do anything that would harm its long-term healthy development, much less do something foolish like crossing the river and then burning the bridge, which would be disheartening.

Shao Yifu listened quietly, the seriousness on his face gradually fading.

He could sense the sincerity in Lin Haoran's words; that openness and magnanimity were genuine.

The phrase "investing in you as a person" particularly resonated with him.

"As for the Oriental Media Group's goal of 'influencing the world'," Lin Haoran smiled, "that's more of a long-term vision and an inspiring slogan."

TVB is an important part of this, but it is by no means the only part that is 'tied down' or 'sacrificed'.

The development of Media Group will fully consider the actual situation and unique value of each business segment.

TVB must first and foremost be TVB, the television station that is beloved by audiences and produces excellent content. Its relationship with Oriental Media Group is merely a partnership, with Oriental Media Group being just one of TVB's shareholders.

I understand the primary and secondary importance very well.

Shao Yifu breathed a long sigh of relief, finally feeling a huge weight lifted from his shoulders.

He chuckled self-deprecatingly: "Looks like I'm overthinking things, being a bit paranoid."

"Uncle Liu is just worried and confused, I can understand," Lin Haoran said with a smile. "In the future, the specific collaboration between Oriental Media Group and TVB will be handled by Cui Zilong, who will directly communicate with TVB's management to set the rules and boundaries."

If you feel anything is amiss, feel free to contact me anytime. Communication between us is always open.

Shao Yifu nodded, a relaxed smile returning to his face: "With your words, I feel relieved. Haoran, you are a man destined for great things. Your vision and ambition are admirable."

It's a good thing that TVB is able to cooperate deeply with you and MediaCorp. In the future, please don't hesitate to ask for TVB's cooperation whenever needed.

"Then thank you in advance, Uncle Six." Lin Haoran raised his teacup. "Let's toast with tea instead of wine, wishing TVB continued success and a pleasant collaboration."

"It's a pleasure to work with you!" Shao Yifu also raised his glass in a toast.

The two looked at each other and smiled, and the slightly awkward atmosphere from before vanished.

Shao Yifu knew that he might really be getting old and couldn't keep up with the young people's agile thinking and grand plans.

But at least, this young man in front of me is trustworthy and knows how to be respected.

For Lin Haoran, appeasing Shao Yifu and ensuring the stable operation of TVB, this important "media carrier," and forming effective synergy with his media empire, is far more important than fighting for some daily management control.

He always understood one principle: true control does not necessarily require doing everything personally.

Alliances built on shared interests, a common vision, and mutual respect are often more stable and enduring than those based on forceful control.

After Lin Haoran left the banquet hall, the atmosphere did not cool down. Instead, it was like a lit fuse that quickly ignited a series of explosions in the global media circle.

That evening, major international news agencies swiftly transmitted key information such as "Hong Kong's richest man, Lin Haoran, has HK$678 billion," "Oriental Media Group's Global Rich List Plan," and "Singapore's Nanyang Rich List Countdown" to every newsroom around the world via radio waves and dedicated lines.

The following morning, when European and American readers opened their newspapers, the headlines that greeted them were filled with shock and a sense of subversion:
The Wall Street Journal unusually devoted an entire front page to the story, with a striking headline in bold black: "A multi-billion dollar tycoon emerges on an oriental island! Lin Haoran's net worth is estimated at $113 billion, surpassing the Ford family!"

The article provides a detailed comparison between Lin Haoran's wealth and the market capitalization of major US stock companies, explicitly stating that his personal wealth was sufficient to rank him among the top ten most valuable US listed companies at the time. It is accompanied by close-up photos of Lin Haoran calmly and confidently under the spotlight. The article comments: "This young man, not yet thirty, is redefining the upper limit of the 'Asian miracle' with his dazzling rate of wealth accumulation, and forcing the Western world to re-examine the shift in the center of gravity of the global wealth landscape."

The Times published a lengthy commentary in its editorial section entitled "The Colonial Reversal: Hong Kong's Rich List Reshapes the Global Map of Wealth and Power."

The article reviews Hong Kong's colonial history, then shifts its focus: "Today, the symbol of wealth born on this land, Lin Haoran and his rich list, are challenging the Western world's long-standing monopoly on the discourse of wealth with unprecedented confidence."

What Governor Sir Merrihau called a 'constructive force' may be evolving into a decisive force capable of reshaping regional and even global business rules.

This editorial cleverly brought to light Merrihau's previous assessment of Lin Haoran and gave it a deeper political interpretation, sparking widespread discussion in London's political and business circles.

The impact of television media is more direct.

The BBC urgently adjusted its financial programming schedule and produced a special documentary entitled "Hong Kong Myth: The Dawn of a New Era of Wealth in the East".

During the program, the host held up a deluxe edition of the "Hong Kong Rich List" that he had just obtained and compiled from data via fax. Pointing to Lin Haoran's overwhelmingly leading wealth figures, he couldn't hide his excitement as he looked at the camera: "My God! This is not just a number of wealth figures, it's a signal!"
A powerful signal from the East regarding wealth creation, business rules, and even confidence in civilization!

We may be witnessing the birth of another Rockefeller-like legend, but this time, the backdrop is Hong Kong, is Asia!

The program also included brief interviews with listed billionaires such as Bao Yugang and Liu Luanxiong, as well as excerpts from Cui Zilong's explanation of the list's methodology and future plans, showcasing the impact of the press conference in a comprehensive manner.

With wealth exceeding ten billion US dollars, and being personal wealth rather than the combined wealth of a large power, this completely shatters the Western society's stereotype of "Asia's backwardness," especially the upper limit of their imagination regarding the scale of personal wealth.

In the past, when Western media mentioned Asian billionaires, they often focused on oil princes from Japan or the Middle East, and these were often associated with family succession or resource monopolies.

Lin Haoran, a young Chinese man who, despite not being from a top-tier wealthy family, built a personal fortune of tens of billions of dollars almost from scratch in just a few years, has a story that is inherently subversive.

Moreover, this wealth is not a dormant asset, but rather a dynamic capital that has deeply intervened in and reshaped Hong Kong's economic lifeline and has begun to radiate globally.

This wealth earthquake from the East caught traditional Western financial authorities off guard and forced them to react.

Wealth and influence always attract like-minded partners and opportunity hunters.

What interests Hong Kong citizens most is Li Ka-shing's public statement.

On the third day after the rich list was released, a special variety show called "Rich People Face to Face" became an instant hit in Hong Kong, with its ratings soaring.

This program invites people on the rich list for face-to-face interviews.

The first person invited was even more unexpected. TVB actually invited Lee Ka-shing, chairman of Cheung Kong Holdings and former tycoon of Hutchison Whampoa!

After all, everyone knows that Li Jiacheng had a conflict with Lin Haoran before.

Therefore, after only half a day of pre-broadcast promotion, the show became an instant hit as soon as it aired.

The premiere of "Face to Face with the Rich" was scheduled for Wednesday night's prime time.

TVB had clearly made careful preparations for this event. The studio was decorated in an elegant yet modern style, and under the soft lighting, the host, Shen Ting, wore a well-fitting business suit and sported her signature professional smile.

But what truly made the entire Hong Kong audience hold their breath was the person sitting opposite her.

Li Jiacheng.

This business tycoon, who once acquired Hutchison Whampoa from a British consortium, is now sitting quietly on a dark leather sofa.

He wore a neatly pressed light gray suit, a deep blue tie, and his hair was combed meticulously.

However, a closer look reveals that the wrinkles around his eyes seem deeper than before, and the fingers holding the teacup tighten slightly when the camera pans across him.

"Mr. Li, welcome to 'Face to Face with the Rich'." Shen Ting's opening remarks were concise and restrained. "As our program's first guest, we know that this interview has special significance for you and all the viewers."

Li Jiacheng nodded slightly and replied in his Cantonese with a slight Chaoshan accent, "Thank you for the invitation."

Shen Ting didn't beat around the bush. She knew exactly what the audience was looking forward to and went straight to the point: "Mr. Li, in the past few days, the whole of Hong Kong and even the world have been discussing the newly released Hong Kong Rich List."

You are ranked eighth on the list with a net worth of approximately HK$69 billion, while Mr. Lin Haoran, who is ranked first, has a net worth of HK$678 billion, a difference of nearly ten times.

As someone who once had a strong chance of becoming Hong Kong's new richest person, what are your thoughts on this outcome?

The camera zoomed in, giving Li Jiacheng a close-up of his face.

He remained silent for three seconds, a brief moment that seemed exceptionally long during the live broadcast.

“First of all,” Li Jiacheng began slowly, his voice steady but with a hint of barely perceptible fatigue, “I want to congratulate Mr. Lin on achieving such an amazing success, HK$678 billion. This figure has indeed exceeded the imagination of many people, including myself.”

He picked up his teacup and took a sip, seemingly organizing his thoughts.

"You're asking for my opinion?" Li Jiacheng put down his teacup and looked directly at the camera. "To be honest, when the list first came out, I didn't quite understand it."

I understand real estate, ports, and the retail industry. I know that making money takes time, cycles, and a steady pace. Lin Sheng's rapid wealth growth violates my understanding of business principles.

He acquires companies so quickly, I'm really curious about where his funding comes from.

The studio was so quiet that you could hear the faint sound of the air conditioner blowing out.

“But in the past few days, I have carefully studied the methodology behind the list and re-examined Lin Sheng’s plans over the past few years.” Li Jiacheng’s tone began to change. “I found that my ‘lack of understanding’ precisely exposed my limitations.”

Shen Ting pressed on at the opportune moment, asking, "What do you mean?"

“I have always believed in the supremacy of real estate and the ability of tangible assets to preserve and increase their value.” Li Jiacheng’s voice revealed a hint of self-deprecation. “That’s why I’m building Hutchison Whampoa into a real estate behemoth, investing in tangible industries like ports and retail.”

That's true; these industries did indeed allow me to accumulate considerable wealth.

He paused, his eyes becoming complicated: "But Lin Sheng took a different path. He works in media, which doesn't seem to generate direct wealth, but he has the power to define wealth."

He invested in technology and finance, areas I at the time considered 'unrealistic';

Even when everyone was pessimistic, he dared to expand globally, leverage resources, and challenge existing rules of the game.

“Looking back now,” Li Jiacheng took a deep breath, “it wasn’t that I was wrong, but that he had a broader vision than me, more courage than me, and a more advanced understanding of the business logic of the new era.”

Shen Ting astutely seized upon a detail: "You mentioned 're-examining Lin Sheng's plans over the past few years,' could you elaborate?"

Li Jiacheng nodded, his expression becoming even more serious this time: "To give a few examples, three years ago, Lin Sheng began to quietly plan ahead for the oil crisis, stockpiling oil in advance. When Mr. Bao mentioned this to me at the time, we both thought it was a waste of time and even mocked him for 'wanting to be an uncrowned king'."

But later we realized we were completely wrong. Lin Sheng's pre-crisis planning made him a fortune, while we, caught completely off guard, were hit hard by the crisis and suffered financial losses!

"For example, at the beginning of this year, Lin Sheng's Land Group dumped a lot of real estate projects. At the time, we all thought he was crazy to abandon so many high-quality real estate projects. Isn't that just throwing away money?"
But as everyone knows now, starting from the middle of the year, Hong Kong's real estate industry began a steady decline, with a sharp drop in transaction volume. Our speed of recovering costs has slowed down, which has greatly increased the pressure on our real estate companies, especially those with high debt ratios, making life extremely difficult.

Therefore, it's clear from this that Lin Sheng's foresight is far beyond my reach!

Li Jiacheng's tone grew increasingly heavy: "There's an even more covert scheme. Two or three years ago, Lin Sheng suddenly acquired the Oriental Daily from the Ma family. At the time, we just thought it was a newspaper company. Even if it had the highest sales volume in Hong Kong, it wasn't a big company and wouldn't make much money."

In retrospect, this is very likely to be the core vehicle for his future global wealth management business.

“We old-fashioned folks,” Li Jiacheng shook his head with a wry smile, “we were still calculating how much each square foot of land could sell for, while Lin Sheng was already building a new empire spanning media, real estate, finance, energy, technology, and manufacturing.”

While we're scrutinizing the quarterly financial reports, he's already been playing a game of chess for ten or twenty years.

Shen Ting's question went a step further: "Mr. Li, there's been a rumor in the industry that Mr. Bao has been trying to connect you with Lin Sheng in the business world, but you ultimately missed the opportunity. Is that true?"

Li Jiacheng's expression flickered, a complex mix of regret and remorse.

"It's true." He admitted frankly, "As everyone should know, Bao Sheng and I are very good friends. We not only have a long-standing friendship, but we are also neighbors. We often chat and drink tea together, discussing business trends and life insights."

About three years ago, when Mr. Lin first showed his talent in the battle for Wharf Holdings, Mr. Bao mentioned to me many times that this young man had unique vision and extraordinary methods, and was destined for great things.

He suggested that I get to know Mr. Lin better and become business friends, but unfortunately, I thought Mr. Lin was too young at the time, so I didn't take it seriously.

After Lin Sheng rose to prominence, Bao Sheng made several more connections, but unfortunately I didn't cherish the opportunities.

A few months ago, when Huifeng Bank was defeated by East Asia Bank, I went to Bao's residence, hoping that he could help me find a way to ease the relationship with Lin Sheng. Bao Sheng directly suggested that I abandon Huifeng and switch to Lin Sheng, and cooperate deeply with Lin Sheng. In this way, we could turn enemies into friends.

Unfortunately, I decided against making that suggestion.

The studio lights seemed to brighten at that moment, illuminating every trace of time on Li Jiacheng's face.

“If I had accepted that cooperation proposal back then,” Li Ka-shing said slowly, “Hutchison Whampoa today might still be in my hands, and my personal wealth would certainly not be limited to 69 billion, nor would I be ranked only eighth on the Hong Kong rich list.”

He looked at the camera with a sincere and moving gaze: "This is one of the biggest misjudgments in my business career. I underestimated the ambition and ability of a young man and overestimated my own adaptability to the new era."

That's the cruelest part of the business world: wrong choices often come at a heavy price.

Shen Ting asked the most crucial question: "So, Mr. Li, do you admit that you have completely lost to Lin Haoran in this business competition?" (End of Chapter)