How can you become a star without money?

Chapter 166 You guys have really put me in a terrible situation!

If we only summarize one commonality among all successful people in history.

That must be luck.

These people can always find the correct answer precisely among countless wrong answers.

But often, even he himself didn't understand why he made that choice.

Therefore, for those who achieve great things, ability is not the most important factor, but it is essential.

Luck, something that seems ethereal and intangible, is actually more important.

The essence of investing is investing in people, a popular saying in the investment community.

This has been the case from ancient times to the present, which is why schools of thought such as the art of judging people and the art of observing aura have emerged.

Ma Yun is a very lucky person, which is why Cai Chongxin followed him from when he was penniless and even when Alibaba was on the verge of collapse. This was because Cai Chongxin knew some numerology and recognized that Ma Yun was a lucky person.

Moreover, Ma Yun's decisions over the years have proven this point; she has almost never made a wrong decision on some very important matters.

After hearing Cheng Wei's report on the mess at the Meishe board of directors, Cai Chongxin's opinion was once again confirmed.

That old guy definitely has something going for him.

"Mr. Ma is incredibly insightful! Wang Yao really is planning to use this route to attack Guo." Cai Chongxin eagerly shared the latest information with Ma Yun.

The Taobao Girls' business line is growing faster than they imagined, and it's not just business revenue that's increasing. After adopting Wang Yao's main image shooting mode and style, the conversion rate of the entire Taobao platform has improved.

The testing team recently optimized the algorithm specifically based on the conversion rate of new store web images. Combined with the newly optimized SEO long-tail keyword system, it is very likely that Taobao will add a new system to its conversion rate.

This model might be a profitable business in Wang Yao's hands, but it could become a powerful tool in Alibaba's hands.

“The media industry is the closest to consumers and has the most direct understanding of consumer preferences. Once the Taobao Mall issue is resolved, we can consider setting up an entertainment business group in preparation. In the future, Alibaba will also need some media and public opinion voices.” After hearing this, Ma Yun did not comment on the internal strife at Meishe, but instead saw other aspects.

“Haven’t we already partnered with Sohu?” Cai Chongxin raised an eyebrow slightly.

“Zhang Chaoyang isn’t one to be subservient to others. It’s safer to keep things in our own hands. Besides, media is the main source of traffic. We can’t compare with Tencent on social media, but we can plan for the next era.” Ma Yun shook her head, paused, and then asked, “Who is this Wu Kebo?”

“A shrewd speculator who used to be a consultant in NEC’s mobile phone division, and last year used a Hong Kong company to go public through a reverse merger in preparation for operating a cinema chain,” Cai Chongxin said with a smile.

“NEC? Doesn’t that mean it’s related to Lao Sun?” Ma Yun squinted.

“That shouldn’t be the case,” Cai Chongxin shook his head.

"Although that kid used our platform to put on a show, we're the ones who ultimately benefited." Ma Yun opened the business information about Wang Yao that her think tank had collected.

Look at a few key keywords.

Entertainment, cinemas, e-commerce, artists—he briefly went through them in his mind, nodded, and felt there were no problems. "Let's give him our support and see what Wang Yao's priorities are. If he wants to do entertainment media, we can reserve a position for him in Alibaba's cultural business unit in the future."

“If Meishe and Tianhuo are restructured, our shareholding will likely be diluted to around 8%. Should we increase our holdings?” Cai Chongxin asked.

"We'll talk about it then. If it doesn't work out, we'll incorporate the new company we're working on with Zhang Chaoyang." Ma Yun stroked her chin. "I heard Wang Yao's variety show boosted sales on Mulan Street quite a bit?"

"According to our current statistics, the 36 brands and 126 stores operated by Xingdian Company saw an average sales increase of over 400% within a week of the program airing. Wang Yao's own two brands are approaching 500 million in sales."

This is a very typical success story of an e-commerce brand, and I have already asked the publicity department to prepare a promotional plan.

The success of these two emerging e-commerce brands will increase our brand onboarding rate by at least 70% during Double Eleven. Wang Yao really helped a lot; last year our sales department made over 50 million RMB during Double Eleven, and this year we estimate 500 million RMB.

"But if Wang Yao continues to put in the momentum with this program, I reckon, given his personality, he'll definitely make some moves around Singles' Day. Maybe he'll even resort to aggressive marketing to push the store's sales to over ten million in a single day. With that kind of momentum, we might just create a billion-dollar miracle on Singles' Day." Cai Chongxin's tone was somewhat subtle.

He was now somewhat relieved that Ma Yun had stopped the attack on Wang Yao in time, preventing the relationship between the two sides from deteriorating further. Now, Wang Yao's value was far greater than the Taobao Girl model.

"When it comes to publicity skills, can our people compare to him?" Ma Yun smiled upon hearing this. "After they've finished making a fuss, I'll find some time to meet him in person."

His greatest hobby is recruiting talented people.

After the conclusion of the Meishe board meeting.

Wu Kebo received Wang Yao again at the company, mainly to discuss the operational issues following the merger of Meishe/Tianhuo.

Although Wu Kebo is an arrogant person, he is not blindly confident. He knows that his expertise lies in capital operation and cinema business, and he knows nothing about the Internet and media industry, so he naturally has to hand it over to Wang Yao, a professional.

Although the shareholders' meeting has not yet been held, he has already taken on the role of chairman.

"Meishe.com's business lines are currently expanding steadily. The online photography market on Taobao is enough to support more revenue. I expect this line alone to generate an additional 1 to 2 million yuan in revenue this year, with a profit margin of around 25%."

"Plus the 'One-Day Store Manager' activities held daily at cinemas, I estimate that Meishe's revenue this year can exceed 3 million, and net profit should reach 1 million without any problem," Wang Yao estimated.

“Last year, we made 1 million in profit out of 5000 million in revenue. How come the profit margin has decreased after the expansion?” Wu Kebo frowned.

He decided to acquire the company because he saw its high net profit margin. If this prediction holds true, the company can only barely maintain its current valuation.

“Meishe’s previous high profits were due to its online paid business, but this business is currently growing relatively slowly. The new online photography business has a normal profit margin of around 30%, unless a few top models are cultivated,” Wang Yao explained.

“Even including Meishe’s other investment revenue, its valuation is still not as high as Tianhuo’s,” Wu Kebo said as he calculated the shareholding ratio after the merger of the two companies.

He didn't want to be sidelined by Wang Yao after the merger, because this time he had essentially offended all the original shareholders of the Meishe Group.

“Even if we merge on a 6:4 basis, after Cheng Tian gets my 20% stake, the new company will still hold more than 30% of the shares, making him the dominant shareholder.” Wang Yao calculated it all for him.

Upon hearing this, Wu Kebo smiled. Although he had suffered a loss by buying Wang Yao's shares at a premium of 6 million, the money would double after the next round of financing once the new company was restructured. Moreover, this money was borrowed by pledging Meishe shares.
It's as if he simply pulled off a series of maneuvers, creating out of thin air a company with a future market value of tens of billions and personal profits of billions.

Even on Wall Street, this would be considered an excellent case study.

Wu Kebo couldn't help but feel a little smug as he sized up Wang Yao.

This kid is so outstanding that it makes people jealous.

But what good is being outstanding? In this world, you need capital and shrewdness.

Otherwise, you'll work for me for the rest of your life.

"Mr. Wang, you've misunderstood. I was just thinking about how to increase Meishe's valuation so as not to drag Tianhuo down," Wu Kebo said with a smile.

“Meishe’s profit model is very simple: either grow its paid membership business or add a premium to its offline business by developing models. If Mr. Wu really wants to do it, he can use this event to do some publicity,” Wang Yao suggested after a moment of thought.

"Mr. Wang, what do you think?" Wu Kebo asked, intrigued.

"I'm afraid we'll need to borrow Mr. Wu's reputation," Wang Yao said with a smile.

"Huh?" Wu Kebo frowned subconsciously, feeling a sense of foreboding.

“The last time the scandal involving the harem gate left a deep impression on President Wu, this time the acquisition of Meishe can leverage the previous controversy to attract a large number of users to register on Meishe.com, for example, by creating a topic called ‘President Wu’s Choice’,” Wang Yao said.

"Isn't this a bit too vulgar?" Wu Kebo frowned.

"Only a great hero can remain true to his nature, and a true gentleman is naturally romantic. Anyway, Mr. Wu already has a reputation as a scumbag, so why bother burying his head in the sand? It's better to be open and honest; it's only human nature to eat, drink, and be with someone.

Furthermore, Meishe.com is inherently a borderline website, but most users are hesitant to watch it. It's not that they don't want to watch it, or that they're unwilling to pay to watch it; it's that they're afraid to watch it because they feel embarrassed.

"If someone like Mr. Wu is watching, it sets a good example and can even generate a lot of social value. Mr. Wu studied in Japan for a long time, so he should understand the value here better than I do," Wang Yao advised.

“If this were in the West or Japan, I certainly wouldn’t care, but this is China after all, and everyone here is more conservative,” Wu Kebo said hesitantly.

He understood perfectly what value Wang Yao was referring to.

“The more oppressive a place is, the more it needs a release point. It’s better to guide than to block. Meishe currently has 300 million users, but I estimate that there is at least 1 million potential paid users in China, not to mention the overseas market.”
Moreover, the more open and honest Mr. Wu is, the more open and honest the paying users will be. After all, only when the chairman personally supports a website can others follow suit. Mr. Wu should set an example for all drivers. "Wang Yao said in a deep voice.

“Why should I care about losing my head?” Wu Kebo’s eyes flashed with cold light upon hearing this.

His public image and reputation have long since collapsed.

Besides, he doesn't make a living based on his fame.

If this can attract a large number of new paying users, that would be a good thing.

Moreover, what Wang Yao said makes sense.

True scholars are naturally elegant, but who defines this elegance as vulgar?
"President Wu is very righteous." Wang Yao bowed to express his appreciation.

"We're all learning from President Wang. Didn't President Wang personally get involved and become the source of public opinion in order to promote Taobao Girls?" Wu Kebo said with a smile.

"It's all for making a living," Wang Yao sighed.

“Indeed, life is not easy. We brothers should encourage each other and overcome these difficult times together,” Wu Kebo said with emotion.

The two discussed the operational details again, and then Wang Yao made an excuse to leave.

Vice President Ji personally escorted him to the underground garage and then got into the RV.

"Mr. Wang, when am I leaving the company?" Ji asked quietly after getting into the car.

"A shareholders'/board meeting will be held in five days. Does President Ji have the status of a board member?" Wang Yao asked.

“I am an employee representative and have the status of a director.” Ji Jin was taken aback.

It was strange that Wang Yao, an outsider, was notified of the board meeting before she was.

"That's good. I'll consider President Ji's future after the conference ends in five days. Oh, and remember to bring Tang Yan along that day," Wang Yao said with a gentle smile.

Ji got off the car, completely bewildered.

Judging from Wang Yao's tone, it doesn't sound like he's asking her to resign, but rather that he's laying her off. But why is he bringing Tang Yan along?

After leaving Chengtian Entertainment, Wang Yao dialed Hu Mei's number.

"Director Hu, could you help me get in touch with Mr. Wang? I have some information that I'm not sure about, and I hope he can give me some guidance."

It's hard to keep the news of the US 'coup' a secret, and there's no need to hide it.

After all, information such as the shareholders' meeting and changes in directors must be publicly disclosed after the shareholders' meeting. Chengtian Entertainment and Meishe.com have been frequent visitors to the industry and trending topics in the past two months.

Now, the gossip about him trying to reverse-engineer and acquire Meishe has sparked widespread discussion.

Wu Kebo's public image was not very positive to begin with, and this time his actions of turning the tables have been criticized by netizens as shameless, and even a post appeared on the Kanpianer.com forum.

'Wu Kebo cleverly devises a series of schemes, leading Meishe.com to the guillotine.'

The article reveals how Wu Kebo previously used capital tactics to backdoor list through Jiahe, and how he ousted Wang Jinhua, among other things. This time, he has resorted to the same old tricks, so it's clear that Meishe.com's fate may not be much better.

The post fleshed out Wu Kebo's original negative persona, making him even more sinister and cunning, but also adding a touch of ruthless heroism.

Netizens have engaged in heated discussions about whether Wu Kebo, this ruthless and ambitious figure, can succeed.

However, the focus of the discussion differs across different platforms.

The website for watching videos is full of rational and talented people who focus on discussing the business development of Chengtian/Meishe and its impact on the domestic media industry.

Forums like Tiger, Cat, Bean, and Sky focused on the idea that Wu Kebo probably felt that messing with celebrities was too risky, so he turned his attention to the modeling market, and even listed some well-known models from Meishe.com who had been victimized by him.

Some busybodies even dug up some of Wu Kebo's posts and subscriptions on Meishe.com, with "Wu Zong's Choice" becoming a huge hit on male forums.

Meanwhile, on new social media platforms like Weibo, the discussion revolves around the "One-Day Store Manager" event for movie theaters. This offline event, which has been running for almost a month, has significantly boosted theater attendance and revenue. Now, it has finally gained online attention, with many pictures of handsome male and beautiful female store managers spreading rapidly across the platform.

With the help of social media platforms and the media, various discussions successfully turned the topic of 'modeling industry' into a hot topic, with various related news or trending topics emerging every day.

There are positive and negative aspects, but there is no doubt that the popularity of the keyword "model" is skyrocketing.

This led to a surge in traffic and registrations for Meishe.com.

Even Wu Kebo's recent account activity on Meishe.com has led to a 5% increase in the platform's paid revenue.

Xu Chen felt tormented every day when he woke up and saw the feedback from the data department.

The anticipated data increases are now just adding fuel to the fire for the final collapse.

He also knew very well who was driving this public outcry.

He now vaguely senses that Wang Yao's involvement in ruining the photography and modeling industry seems to go beyond a simple financial entanglement.

But as the shareholders' meeting drew closer, he became increasingly calm.

During this period, he contacted various directors and shareholders, including the major shareholder Lehman Brothers, hoping to prevent Wu Kebo's coup at the shareholders' meeting.

However, everyone's reactions were quite ambiguous. Lehman even considered issuing new shares internally in advance to dilute Chengtian's shares, but then worried that it would be a losing proposition and benefit others.

Xu Chen did his best to accompany the chairman on his travels, but he remained indifferent, like an outsider.

After all, he was someone who had already seen the ending.

The only thing that made him anxious was not knowing what kind of role Wang Yao would assign him.

On Thursday, May 5.14th, the night before the shareholders' meeting, Xu Chen finally received a call from Wang Yao, who gave him an address that appeared to be a private club.

When he arrived, the club seemed to be waiting for him.

Xu Chen glanced at the list and recognized some of them, including Ren Quan and Wang Jinhua, who had direct financial ties with Cheng Tian.

There's also Chen Hao, who has romantic entanglements.

The last one is Zhou Yougen, a famous model he knows very well. Her being recruited by Wang Yao caused quite a stir in the industry at the time, but she doesn't seem to have any connection with Cheng Tian.

Xu Chen exchanged polite greetings with everyone.

Everyone knew in their hearts that those present were actors who would be acting together tomorrow.

"Mr. Xu is here, everyone's here." Director Wang Yao finally arrived late and said to everyone, "We're all acquaintances, so I won't waste any more time. Let's take a look at this first."

Wang Yao handed out several documents to them for them to read.

Xu Chen took it and glanced at it, then gasped.

One document is the judgment in Feng Jiao's case.

One document is Chengtian Entertainment's acquisition of a 20% stake in Tianhuo for 6 million yuan.

One document is a lawsuit filed by Wang Jinhua regarding a dispute with Wu Kebo from their past collaboration.

Everyone else reacted the same way as Xu Chen, their faces changing drastically and them gasping for breath.

Everyone here is an elite in the entertainment industry, so it goes without saying what Feng Jiao's document represents.

"This is an important prop for President Xu tomorrow. It's the first big gift Wu Kebo gave him after becoming the chairman of Meishe." Wang Yao handed it to Xu Chen.

"Me?" Xu Chen took the light folder, as if it weighed a ton.

This role is a bit too much.

Xu Chen's lips trembled slightly. If this thing were taken out, not only would Wu Kebo be furious, but even the old chairman Lehman would be furious.

But he was also very clear that he had no choice but to agree.

“Mr. Xu doesn’t need to say anything, Mr. Wu should understand on his own.” Wang Yao smiled and handed the acquisition documents to Chen Hao. “Tomorrow, Sister Hao, on behalf of the retail investor alliance’s 15% shareholding, will present this second big gift to Mr. Wu as a congratulatory present.”

"What does this mean?" Chen Hao asked, somewhat puzzled.

"This means that the debt ratio of Chengtian is as high as 60% or more, which touches the risk red line of third-party creditors. Once there is a problem with the pledged property, the creditors will have the right to withdraw the loan in advance."

"If the loan cannot be repaid, there may be risks such as lawsuits from creditors or unauthorized withdrawal of loans. For the CEO, this would be a major decision-making error, and shareholders have the right to remove him," Liu Haifeng explained.

"Hong Kong stocks require that listed companies must publish announcements and circulars for transactions between 25% and 75% of their shares, but do not require shareholder approval."

This 6 million investment accounts for almost 50% of Chengtian's market value. Although Wu Kebo did not disclose it, he needs to disclose the details of the transaction through an official announcement and circular.

If the investment exceeds 75%, then a formal announcement and shareholder approval are required.

He looked at Wang Yao with a complicated expression.

He had only just learned of this document; the fact that Wang Yao had kept this secret until now showed his incredibly calm and collected nature.

If he had known about this earlier, he wouldn't have had to go through so much trouble to acquire shares.

"Since we're unsure if the actual board meeting of the Japanese investors will be present tomorrow, we can only use this method to test Mr. Wu's level of trust with the investors. Brother Liu, please send the debt ratio information to the Japanese board overnight to see if they can make it to the meeting." Wang Yao smiled.

"Leave it to me." Liu Haifeng nodded.

Wang Yao returned the last document to Wang Jinhua, saying, "If Sister Hua is willing, she and Sister Hao can present a congratulatory gift to President Wu."

"To be honest, I've been waiting for this day for so long. I never thought it would actually happen. Mr. Wang, this show you put on is even more exciting than a TV drama. I can already picture Wu Kebo's expression." Wang Jinhua's smile was filled with amazement.

She has read countless scripts.

But compared to Wang Yao's performance, it's nothing.

That's why they say reality is more magical than TV dramas.

"I still have to thank President Wu for helping to build such a big stage. Otherwise, how would we have had the opportunity to perform?" Wang Yao said with a warm smile.

"What about me? I'll just vote with my feet?" Ren Quan rubbed his hands together, feeling like he was about to get into acting.

Although he and Wu Kebo had no prior conflict, their constant surprise attacks on the movie website back then did indeed create a deep-seated grudge between them.

So given this opportunity, he certainly doesn't want to be an extra.

“Your role is very important. If President Wu is dismissed on the spot, you, as a director and shareholder, will have to propose new candidates for chairman and CEO.” Wang Yao smiled.

"And then you declined the throne three times before ascending to the throne?" Ren Quan instantly understood and grinned.

“Such a good company has been ruined by Wu Kebo. The Japanese shareholders should make him commit seppuku. President Wang was appointed to take charge of Chengtian Entertainment at this critical moment. He is turning the tide and saving the company from collapse.” Zhou Yougen agreed.

"I'm afraid only you can save this mess," Wang Jinhua said with a smile.

"The staff at Chengtian are all quite good. We can't let so many people lose their jobs because of Wu Kebo's negligence," Chen Hao said with a smile.

"President Wang, it's not just Cheng Tian, ​​there's also Meishe! Meishe needs you even more." Xu Chen said quickly, seeing that everyone was already in the zone.

These are all professional actors; he's an amateur and he's at a disadvantage.

"You've really put me in a difficult position," Wang Yao chuckled.

(Some people said the pictures in the previous chapter were hard to see, so I've split them into two parts for you to see.)

(End of this chapter)