Rebirth in Hong Kong: From Dessert Shop to Industrial Empire.

Chapter 242 First Encounter (5K votes/recommendations/subscriptions requested!)

After his meeting with Sir Michael Sandberg at the Peninsula Hotel coffee shop, Chan Ping-man returned to the Wai Yip Building by car.

The car was driving along Des Voeux Road Central, with bustling crowds and traffic outside the window.

Chen Bingwen leaned back in his chair, closed his eyes to rest, and replayed every word he had just exchanged with Shen Bi in his mind.

Shen Bi's attitude was very clear.

There is disagreement within HSBC's board of directors regarding the sale of the remaining Hutchison Whampoa shares. Some support Li Ka-shing, while others favor Chen Bingwen.

More importantly, Sim Bi himself was also observing the situation.

He was not in a hurry to make a decision immediately, but was waiting for the best offer, to see who between Chen Bingwen and Li Jiacheng could come up with a solution that better suited HSBC's long-term interests.

In this situation, HSBC will not easily play its trump card before the final candidate is determined.

That 23% stake in Hutchison Whampoa is like a carrot dangling in front of a donkey; it's a bargaining chip that Sir Michael Sandberg is using to manipulate his power struggle with Lee Ka-shing. Until the final outcome is reached, it won't actually be given to either side.

"Waiting for the best price—choosing sides—" Chen Bingwen muttered to himself, a cold smile playing on his lips.

Sir Michael Sandberg was trying to muddy the waters, making him and Li Ka-shing compete with each other, raising HSBC's price, and at the same time making it clearer who was more "obedient" and who could better protect HSBC's interests.

Whoever remains calm and composed, and whoever demonstrates irreplaceable value, is more likely to be the one HSBC ultimately chooses.

There's no use in being anxious.

Instead, they would lose their composure and be manipulated by Shen Bi.

Chen Bingwen opened his eyes, his gaze calm.

Now that we know the rules of the game, let's play according to the rules.

What he needs to do now is not to force the 23% that he cannot obtain for the time being, but to consolidate what he has already gained and continue to accumulate more chips.

North America, Illinois.

In the conference room of Chenji Bottling Plant.

Michael, Li Ming, Irwin Carter, a senior partner at the Washington-based law firm Alston-Borde, and Zhou Zhiyuan, who came all the way from Hong Kong Island, were gathered together studying the inquiry documents against the FDA.

The conference table was covered with various technical documents and legal papers.

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"Attorney Carter, what exactly did the FDA say in response? This can't go on like this." Li Ming couldn't contain his anxiety and spoke first.

During this period, he was overwhelmed by the investigation, the production line was waiting for food to be cooked, and the distributors kept asking questions, resulting in huge cost pressures every day.

Owen Carter adjusted his gold-rimmed glasses and said calmly, "Manager Li, there's no need to worry too much."

From a professional perspective, our submitted response documents were very comprehensive and supported by sufficient scientific evidence.

The FDA's inquiry was largely based on an anonymous complaint, and according to procedure, they are required to investigate. However, this does not directly mean that the FDA has determined that our product has a safety issue.

He picked up a beautifully bound document and continued in his calm tone, "Professor Zhou's product safety report and experimental data are impeccable."

While the caffeine and taurine content in Pulse Thunder is relatively high for a non-alcoholic beverage, it is far from reaching the threshold that would cause clear harm to the human body.

Furthermore, we have clearly indicated the recommended daily intake limit on the product label, thus fulfilling our obligation to inform customers.

From a scientific and legal standpoint, our position is entirely valid.

"But this review process is too torturous," Li Ming sighed, rubbing his temples. "The production line is waiting to start, and the channels are constantly asking questions. Every day there are real costs and reputational losses."

At this moment, Mary spoke up.

He looked at Owen Carter and asked, "Attorney Carter, can we take a more proactive approach?"

For example, request an informal hearing, or try to communicate directly, face-to-face with the FDA officer in charge of the project.

Written communication is too inefficient and prone to misunderstandings.

Attorney Carter thought for a moment and nodded: "Actively seeking direct communication is a viable strategy, and it is often more effective."

I can try to arrange through some channels to give Professor Zhou Zhiyuan the opportunity to directly explain the product's safety and formulation design basis to the FDA's expert review panel.

Face-to-face professional communication is usually more effective at dispelling doubts than thick volumes of written correspondence.

"I have absolutely no problem," Zhou Zhiyuan immediately stated. "All the data and research process are here with me." He pointed to his head. "I can clearly and systematically explain to any professional the basis for the dosage and safety limits of each ingredient."

"Okay, Attorney Carter, you'll take the lead in arranging this." Maris immediately made the decision, and then he said to Li Ming, "Li, the publicity campaign for 'Project Leap' should not only continue as usual, but should also be intensified and increased in frequency."

We need to use the market's enthusiastic expectations and positive feedback to demonstrate the product's popularity, its legitimacy, and its safety.

Public opinion and market forces can sometimes play an unexpected but powerful role.

"Understood!" Li Ming nodded emphatically.

In the following days, through Irving Carter's mediation, Zhou Zhiyuan was able to hold a closed-door technical meeting with relevant FDA review officials.

With his solid professional knowledge, clear logic, and well-prepared detailed data, Zhou Zhiyuan successfully answered many questions from FDA experts, greatly alleviating the official concerns.

Although the review process is not yet over, the most intense phase seems to be passing.

At the same time, the promotional campaign for the "Leap Forward Plan" was launched in full swing.

News of Rick Stevens' planned paragliding challenge across the Grand Canyon in Colorado, reported through newspapers and NBC, has been circulating.

The television network gained widespread coverage, sparking great public interest and heated discussion.

A luxury villa overlooking the sea on Repulse Bay Road, Hong Kong Island.

He Xian's residence on Hong Kong Island.

A small private party is currently being held, and the invitees are all friends and important partners in He Xian's inner circle.

He Xian's villa was decorated in a luxurious yet tasteful manner. There were not many guests, mostly He Xian's close friends and business partners in Hong Kong. The atmosphere was much more relaxed than a formal business banquet.

He Xian personally greeted him at the door, smiling as he led him inside: "Mr. Chen, we're all family here today, relax and chat casually."

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Chen Bingwen smiled and replied, "Mr. He, you're too kind."

His gaze swept subtly over He Xian's attire, noticing that this man, who usually wore a formal suit, was now dressed in a finely crafted polo shirt, appearing much more approachable.

The gathering was a Western-style buffet, with exquisite dishes laid out on a long table, ranging from French foie gras to Chinese dim sum.

There were only a few guests, about a dozen people, all of whom were prominent figures from Hong Kong and Macau. They gathered in twos and threes, talking quietly.

He Xian personally introduced Chen Bingwen to several friends, demonstrating the hospitality and manners of a true host.

Just as the two were chatting and laughing, a young girl in a light blue dress walked over with a glass of juice in her hand.

She was about sixteen or seventeen years old, with a quiet yet intelligent demeanor. Her features bore a resemblance to He Xian, especially her bright eyes, which left a deep impression.

"Siqiong, you've come at the perfect time." He Xian smiled and waved, his voice carrying a hint of barely perceptible pride. "Come, let me introduce you. This is Mr. Chen Bingwen of Sugar Heart Capital, whom I've mentioned to you before. He's young, promising, and has a keen eye for talent."

He turned to Chen Bingwen and said in a friendly tone, "Mr. Chen, this is my daughter, Siqiong. She is still studying abroad and has just come back for the holidays."

He Siqiong extended her hand gracefully, a smile playing on her lips: "Hello, Mr. Chen."

Her gaze was filled with obvious curiosity as she carefully examined the rumored young entrepreneur in front of her.

She had heard too many stories about him and thought he would be a sharp and ambitious young man, but she didn't expect him to be calm and composed in person, with a calm and wise look in his eyes, without any arrogance or haughtiness.

"Miss He, hello." Chen Bingwen shook hands with her lightly, then quickly pulled away, maintaining a proper distance.

Of course he knew He Siqiong. In his memories from his previous life, this young lady was not only outstanding in appearance, but also had extraordinary achievements in the business world. She was a person not to be underestimated.

He Xian seemed to want the two young people to talk more, and patted Chen Bingwen on the shoulder with a smile: "You young people have a lot in common, chat more."

Siqiong is also very interested in business and always has some strange and unusual questions.

"Mr. Chen, could you give her some pointers? I'm going over there to visit some old friends."

After saying that, he smiled and walked toward another group of guests, leaving Chen Bingwen and He Siqiong alone.

"Mr. He, you're too modest. Let's learn from each other," Chen Bingwen said politely to He Xian's retreating figure, then turned to He Siqiong with a gentle expression.

He Siqiong tilted her head slightly, her hair gleaming softly under the light.

"I've often heard Daddy mention Mr. Chen lately, but I didn't expect you to be so young." Her voice was clear and pleasant.

"Miss He, you flatter me. I've just been fortunate to live in a good era," Chen Bingwen said with a modest smile.

"Luck is certainly important," He Siqiong blinked, her eyes serious but with a hint of playfulness, "but the most valuable thing is being able to seize luck and turn it into strength."

She was clearly not satisfied with superficial pleasantries and asked directly, "Mr. Chen, many people are talking about your acquisition of Qingzhou Yingni."

I'm very curious, how did you make these crucial judgments in such a short time, amidst so much complex information and uncertainty?

Aren't you worried about the series of risks that might result from a flawed decision?

A hint of surprise flashed in Chen Bingwen's eyes.

He hadn't expected He Siqiong's question to be so direct and insightful, completely exceeding the scope of what an ordinary young lady from a wealthy family might be concerned with.

She not only focuses on the results, but also on the risks and uncertainties in the decision-making process, which demonstrates her keen business acumen and thoughtful personality.

After a moment's thought, he decided to stop being evasive and replied, "Before making any major decision, gather as much information as possible, weigh all possibilities, and most importantly, figure out whether you can bear the worst possible outcome."

Risks always exist and cannot be completely avoided. The key is to assess whether the risks and rewards are commensurate, and then, once you have a clear understanding, act decisively.

Often, hesitation and missed opportunities come at a greater cost than making mistakes.

He Siqiong nodded thoughtfully, pondering the words: "So the key is to be bold yet meticulous, and to think things through as thoroughly as possible beforehand."

However, when implementing this, one must be resolute and decisive, and also have the courage and confidence to bear the consequences of failure.

"That's one way to understand it."

Chen Bingwen admired He Siqiong's insight and ability to summarize, and nodded with a smile, "Sufficient capital and psychological resilience are the foundation for daring to make decisions."

As the conversation deepened, the awkwardness between the two gradually faded.

The conversation ranged from business decisions to corporate management, international perspectives, and even the differences between Eastern and Western business cultures.

He Siqiong is quick-witted and her questions often hit the nail on the head, demonstrating insight and depth of thought beyond her years.

Chen Bingwen's answers were concise and to the point, often hitting the nail on the head. His occasional forward-thinking views on future trends surprised He Siqiong, as if a new window had been opened for her.

During the conversation, He Siqiong's curiosity about Chen Bingwen only increased.

This young man possessed an indescribable composure and confidence, as if he had everything under control, creating a peculiar and attractive contrast with the naiveté that came with his actual age.

She had met many so-called young talents, but Chen Bingwen was the first one who had started from scratch, created such a situation in such a short period of time, and whose words revealed a calm insight into the future.

As the gathering drew to a close, He Siqiong proactively handed Chen Bingwen her contact information and sincerely said, "Mr. Chen, I have benefited greatly from chatting with you today; it was more useful than listening to many dry business case lectures."

I hope to have the opportunity to consult with you again in the future, and I hope you won't find my questions too numerous.

Chen Bingwen took the exquisite note and handed over his business card, smiling as he said, "Miss He is too modest. Many of your insights have been very inspiring to me."

Feel free to contact me anytime if you have any interesting ideas in the future.

He Xian appeared to be chatting casually with his friend, but in reality, he had been keeping a close eye on what was happening. When he saw the two of them talking happily and exchanging contact information, a faint smile of satisfaction appeared on his face.

At almost the same time, in a guesthouse in a county town in Guangdong Province, mainland China.

Chen Guofu and Wang Qiaozhen were surrounded by a group of relatives, the atmosphere was warm yet tinged with a cautious respect.

A few days ago, they successfully passed through customs and, with the assistance of staff from the China Resources office, finally returned to the small town they remembered after a long and winding journey.

The changes are so drastic that it's almost impossible to find any trace of what it used to be like.

But the relatives who rushed over upon hearing the news still made Chen Guofu and Wang Qiaozhen feel exceptionally warm.

At this moment, Chen Guofu, wearing a brand-new shirt and trousers that Chen Bingwen had bought for him, sat in the main seat, his face flushed from drinking a little wine, listening to a distant cousin talk endlessly about the changes over the years and the family's difficulties.

Wang Qiaozhen chatted with several women on the side, constantly stuffing peanut candies into the hands of her relatives.

"Brother Guofu, you're a big boss now! It's impressive that you've established yourself in Hong Kong!"

My cousin gave me a thumbs up, his voice filled with envy and flattery.

"Yes, yes, Sister Qiaozhen looks so young, she's really enjoying life!"

"I heard my nephew's business is booming? He's truly bringing honor to the family!"

E

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Hearing these words, Chen Guofu felt a mix of emotions.

I'm definitely happy. After being away from home for so many years, I'm finally back to see my family and hear my familiar accent.

But the feeling of being the center of attention because of his son's success made him feel somewhat uncomfortable, even a little dazed.

He knew perfectly well that this enthusiasm and respect were almost entirely due to his exceptionally successful son, Awen.

Ah Wen changed everything, transforming him from an ordinary worker who left home years ago into someone now being treated as a "Hong Kong businessman" and "boss".

Is this what they mean by a father gaining status through his son?

He thought to himself, feeling both proud and burdened.

The next day, accompanied by local relatives and China Resources staff, they went to the site of the Chen family's old residence.

New factory buildings have been built there, and only an old banyan tree remains that is still vaguely recognizable.

Chen Guofu stood under the tree for a long time, silently smoking a cigarette. Looking at the completely changed old place, he felt empty inside, yet it also felt like something had filled him up.

Wang Qiaozhen secretly wiped the corner of her eye.

After leaving Chen Guofu's hometown, they traveled to Wang Qiaozhen's family home, a small rural town in Shunde.

Although the journey was arduous, Wang Qiaozhen became increasingly excited as they drew closer.

When the car finally stopped in front of a slightly old but clean and tidy bungalow, Wang Qiaozhen's eyes instantly reddened.

Hearing the noise, an elderly couple with gray hair, supporting each other, came out of the house to greet them.

"Dad! Mom!" Wang Qiaozhen called out, her voice choked with sobs. She rushed forward and tightly grasped the two elderly people's calloused hands, tears streaming down her face.

"It's good that you're back, it's good that you're back—" Chen Bingwen's grandmother said repeatedly, gently patting her daughter's hand with her rough palms, and she couldn't help but shed tears.

Chen Bingwen's maternal grandfather didn't say much, but nodded vigorously, carefully examining his daughter's face, as if trying to make up for all the years he had missed.

At this moment, Chen Bingwen's uncles and aunts also gathered around, crying and laughing, creating a touching scene.

Chen Guofu stood aside, watching his wife reunite with her family, feeling a pang of sadness but also happy for her.

Compared to Chen Guofu's hometown, which is mostly filled with relatives and old neighbors, Wang Qiaozhen's family is full of close relatives, making the atmosphere more sincere and touching. There is less socializing and more intense family affection.

Grandma held Wang Qiaozhen's hand and chatted on about her life on Hong Kong Island and her grandson Awen. When she heard that Awen was very successful, the old woman smiled from ear to ear and kept saying, "May our ancestors bless us."

Looking at this scene, at the genuine, tearful smile on his wife's face, Chen Guofu suddenly felt that this trip back was worthwhile.

All the travel and discomfort seem insignificant in the face of family reunion.

With the help of his staff and driver, he unloaded a large pile of gifts from the car, including Hong Kong-made fabrics, candies, biscuits, nutritional supplements, as well as several new electronic watches and some commonly used medicines that Chen Bingwen had specially prepared.

"Awen is busy and can't come back. This is a small token of his appreciation, so that the two elders can take some tonics," Chen Guofu explained.

She stayed at her parents' home for two days. Although the conditions were simple, Wang Qiaozhen's smile never faded.

Chen Guofu gradually relaxed, having a few drinks with his brothers-in-law and brothers-in-law, chatting about the harvest, and listening to them talk about their son Awen with envy and pride. His sense of pride gradually became more grounded.

This is the root.

No matter how much money you earn or how much success you achieve outside, returning here to be recognized and cared for by your loved ones in the simplest way brings an irreplaceable sense of satisfaction.