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

Chapter 262 Asia Television 4K (Seeking monthly tickets, recommendations, and subscriptions!)

Although the news of Chan Ping-man's successful acquisition of Hutchison Whampoa caused quite a stir in Hong Kong's top business districts, this attention did not last long.

In late January 1980, another company completely overshadowed everything, dominating the front pages of all financial media and becoming the focus of heated discussion on the streets.

"Mr. Chen, have you read today's newspaper?"

Vincent Fang walked into the office carrying a stack of newly delivered newspapers. "That Carnation Group you mentioned before, Chen Songqing, bought the Golden Gate Building in Central for a staggering HK$998 million!"

Chen Bingwen looked up from the documents and took the newspaper.

The front page headline, in bold black font, proclaimed: "The largest commercial building transaction in Hong Kong's history!"

"Jianing spends a fortune to purchase the Golden Gate Building, marking the rise of a new real estate tycoon!"

He quickly skimmed through the content, which was filled with curiosity about Chen Songqing, speculation about the background of the Jianing Group, and amazement at his "Midas touch" financial skills.

"Nine hundred and ninety-eight million — that's quite a sum."

Chen Bingwen put down the newspaper and calmly sighed, his tone revealing no emotion.

He wasn't actually surprised; in fact, he was somewhat aware of it.

The rise and subsequent collapse of Caring was a famous case in the economic history of Hong Kong Island in his memories of his previous life.

Such business myths, built on high leverage and astonishing audacity, are often unstable, but when they are at their peak, they can indeed attract all eyes and capital.

"The market reaction is very enthusiastic," Fang Wenshan exclaimed. "The stock price of the Jialing Group rose by more than ten percent yesterday alone, and many retail investors are chasing after it."

The entire financial world is talking about Chen Songqing now, saying his background is unfathomable and his financial skills are superhuman.

"Let them discuss it," Chen Bingwen pushed the newspaper aside. "This kind of prosperity built on leverage is best left unseen."

Our approach is different from theirs.

It's more important to be down-to-earth and do your own job well.

He didn't envy Jianing's success; instead, he became wary.

Such frenzied market sentiment often foreshadows the accumulation of risks. He reminded Vincent Fang: "Pass down the notice that our companies must strengthen management in the near future, and ensure sufficient financial safety margins so as not to be swept up in this frenzy."

All business dealings with the Jianing Group, regardless of size, must be reviewed and approved by the group headquarters before execution!

Upon hearing this, Fang Wenshan looked slightly puzzled: "Mr. Chen, do we need to be so cautious?"

Although I also feel that Canning's rise has been a bit too rapid, the deal for the Golden Gate Tower did actually happen.

If we completely avoid this, will we miss some potential cooperation opportunities?

Moreover, such a blanket approach might make those below us think we're too conservative.

In his opinion, the boss's reaction seemed a bit excessive.

Chen Bingwen looked at Fang Wenshan, knowing that he needed to give him a clearer explanation, since through acquisitions and mergers, the Jianing Group would gradually gather more than two hundred companies under its umbrella.

The business is very complex and intertwined; it's impossible to predict when it will intersect with our side.

He pondered for a moment, then pointed to a section in the newspaper where the source of funds was vague, and said, "Look at this transaction. The amount is huge, close to one billion Hong Kong dollars, but the newspaper is vague about the source of funds, only saying that it is funds from a consortium."

Chen Songqing was virtually unknown just a few months ago, but suddenly he was able to mobilize nearly a billion yuan, which is unusual in itself.

Business operations can be rapid, but the foundation must be solid.

I suspect that the financial chain behind it is extremely complex and fragile, possibly involving very high leverage and intricate related-party transactions.

He paused, then continued to provide Fang Wenshan with an in-depth analysis: "The best companies to deal with are those with clear accounts, transparent business operations, and healthy cash flow."

The waters of Jianing are too deep for us to see through.

At this stage, safety comes first, and avoiding risks is far more important than pursuing uncertain profits.

We cannot risk being dragged down for the sake of potential cooperation opportunities.

Do you understand?

Fang Wenshan listened carefully, the doubt on his face gradually fading away, replaced by solemnity.

He had followed Chen Bingwen for a long time and knew that his boss rarely made mistakes in risk assessment and had a very long-term vision.

It could even be said that there were no mistakes. Since Chen Bingwen was so careful in entrusting this matter, it must mean that something was wrong.

He nodded: "I understand, Mr. Chen. I will immediately issue a notice emphasizing risk control and clarifying the approval process for dealings with the Jialing Group."

"Okay, go ahead. I especially want to remind Huo Jianning and Morris that their relationship with Huang Yuli has only just stabilized and can't withstand any more setbacks."

""

Chen Bingwen added.

After Fang Wenshan left, Chen Bingwen picked up the newspaper again and glanced at the other news in the financial section.

The sudden emergence of Caring was like a boulder thrown into the already turbulent sea of ​​Hong Kong commerce.

He knew this was just the beginning, and the frenzy would intensify as the real estate and stock markets continued to heat up.

He must keep himself and his companies sober and away from this dangerous game.

His foundation lies in real businesses and cash flow, not in capital speculation.

Only with a solid foundation can one stand firm against the storms that may come in the future.

Suddenly, he noticed a small announcement in the financial section of the newspaper: "Changes have been made to the board of directors of Wharf Holdings. Universal Holdings has increased its seats on the Wharf board to four. In addition, Frederick Peter Ford, CEO of Hongkong Land, has also joined the Wharf board as executive director."

Chen Bingwen's eyes narrowed slightly.

The increased stake in Wharf Holdings' board of directors by Universal Holdings signifies another step forward for Sir Yue-Kong Pao in his struggle against Jardine Matheson for control of Wharf Holdings.

It has reached a fever pitch. This is a business war that is larger in scale, more extensive in scope, and more profound in impact than the one between him and Li Ka-shing over Hutchison Whampoa, and it is related to the future landscape of Hong Kong Island's container terminals and real estate.

"The showdown between Sir John Paul II and Jardine Matheson seems to be just around the corner—" Chen Bingwen thought to himself.

He knew that the climax of this battle was about to begin, and the stock price would inevitably fluctuate wildly.

For him, this might be a risky opportunity to profit from information asymmetry in the short term.

He needs to closely monitor developments and perhaps have MacLehose's team do some research beforehand, analyzing the possibility of intervening in Wharf Holdings' shares at the appropriate time to make a quick profit and replenish ammunition for the integration of Hutchison Whampoa.

However, this concerns Y.K. Pao, so the operation must be carried out with extreme caution, and the right time and method must be chosen.

However, fate is always so strange. Chen Bingwen did not want his company to have any business dealings with the Jia Ning Group, but a piece of news about the Jia Ning Group once again caught his attention.

"Mr. Chen," Ma Shimin reported to Chen Bingwen immediately upon receiving the news, "We have received information that Chen Songqing of the Jianing Group seems to be very interested in the land plot of the soft drink factory owned by the Li Xiaohe family, and is in contact with the Li family, wanting to acquire that land."

"Oh? The Li family's soft drink factory?" Chen Bingwen raised an eyebrow.

Lee Ka's soft drink factory is one of the oldest soft drink factories in Hong Kong Island, on par with Swire and Watsons.

But what he knew even more clearly was that Rikyoka's health seemed to be poor, and historically, he might die this year.

If Chen Songqing were to discuss the acquisition at this time, the timing would be quite opportune.

"Yes, as one of the three major soft drink factories on Hong Kong Island, the site of Lee Ka Soft Drink Factory is in a good location, especially now that the MTR is about to open, the property value along the line is expected to rise."

Ma Shih-min analyzed, "It seems that Jialing wants to replicate the model of the Golden Gate Building, acquiring assets with potential at low prices and then inflating their value through packaging and hype."

Chen Bingwen remained silent, lost in thought.

Li Jia's soft drink business is a valuable asset, with both its brand and distribution channels having value.

If Lee Ka is ultimately to be sold, rather than letting Caring, whose background is complicated, it would be better for Lee Ka to take it over itself. This would create a synergy with Chan Kee Foods' beverage business and further consolidate its channel advantages in Hong Kong Island and even Southeast Asia.

In his recollection, after Li Xiaohe's death, his widow, Li Luyanqun, did indeed sell the soft drink business, cashed out a large sum of money, and then invested in financial investments, which she did very successfully, earning her the nickname "female version of Buffett."

If history doesn't follow the same trajectory, then Jia Ning is very likely to succeed this time.

He thought for a moment and said to Ma Shimin, "Keep an eye on this. Li Jia's soft drink business is an established brand, and its distribution channels and formulas are valuable."

If Lijia truly intends to sell and the price is reasonable, we can consider getting involved.

After all, the soft drink business aligns better with our core business.

"Understood, Mr. Chen. I will keep a close eye on it." Ma Shimin nodded solemnly and made a note of it.

On February 12, the MTR on Hong Kong Island officially opened.

As the first subway line in Hong Kong Island's history, its opening caused a sensation throughout the city.

Chen Bingwen specially asked Zhao Gang to drive his parents, Chen Guofu and Wang Qiaozhen, to the subway station so that he could accompany them on a trip.

The subway car was packed with curious citizens, and the atmosphere was very lively.

"Ah Wen, this subway is so fast! It will be so much more convenient to travel from Hong Kong Island to Kowloon now!"

Wang Qiaozhen looked at the scenery rushing past the window and said happily.

"Yes, Mom. The value of land and shops along the subway line, especially around the stations, will increase significantly."

Chen Bingwen said.

Previously, both Chen Ji Dessert and Watsons had opened stores at several major stations along the subway line. With the opening of the subway, the sales of these stores saw a significant increase.

Sure enough, in the following days, the sales data sent by Ma Shimin showed that the turnover of several Watsons and ParknShop supermarkets located in the subway station had increased significantly.

As the Lunar New Year approaches, the festive atmosphere is growing stronger.

On the 28th day of the twelfth lunar month, Chen Bingwen hosted a banquet at the Sheraton Hotel to entertain the core management team of Sugar Heart Capital and Chen Ji Foods, which can be considered a reunion dinner before the New Year.

Everyone was both excited about the achievements of the past year and full of expectations for the future.

"Thank you all for your hard work over the past year."

During the meal, Chen Bingwen raised his glass and toasted everyone.

"The challenges will be even greater in the new year."

The integration of Hutchison Whampoa is the main event, and Jianning and MacLehose need to put in a lot of effort.

We can't let our guard down in the North American and European markets; we need to keep a close eye on Li Ming's side.

As RTV was just starting out, Maurice was under considerable pressure.

Huo Jianning nodded and said, "Don't worry, Mr. Chen, the organizational restructuring plan for Hutchison Whampoa has been initially drafted and can be gradually implemented after the New Year."

The key is to streamline business lines, reduce management layers, and improve decision-making efficiency.

"The valuation and divestiture process for Hutchison Whampoa's non-core assets can be initiated after the new year," MacLehose added.

"Very good." Chen Bingwen nodded in satisfaction.

"We can take steady steps, but the direction must be clear. We should execute everything according to the principles we agreed on beforehand, and communicate promptly when we encounter resistance."

At this point, Ling Peiyi brought up a topic: "Mr. Chen, during the Lunar New Year, there are some spring banquets held by chambers of commerce and overseas Chinese associations. Would you like to attend?"

For example, the Chaozhou Chamber of Commerce and the Shunde Association had already sent invitations.

Chen Bingwen thought for a moment, then shook his head: "Please politely decline for me, just say you're busy with company affairs."

It's better to keep a low profile right now, since you're in the spotlight so much.

On my behalf, just bring a generous gift to the hometown association event; the important thing is to express your goodwill.

He knew the saying that a tall tree catches the wind.

With the Jialing Group currently attracting the majority of attention, it is the perfect time for him to focus on internal integration and solidifying his foundation. There is no need for him to overexpose himself in social settings.

On Lunar New Year's Eve, Chen Bingwen and his parents enjoyed a sumptuous reunion dinner.

The TV was broadcasting TVB's Lunar New Year greetings, creating a festive atmosphere at 75 Deep Water Bay.

On the first day of the Lunar New Year, Chan Ping-man was resting at home. He turned on the TV and happened to see TVB's Lunar New Year special.

During the program, TVB Chairman Lee Hyo-wah appeared on stage and performed the eye-dotting ceremony for the lion dance.

.

As Chen Bingwen watched Li Xiaohe on TV, he recalled Ma Shimin's news a few days ago about Jianing's contact with Lijia Soft Drink Factory, and he seemed to be deep in thought.

In his previous life, Li Xiaohe died this year due to heart problems. He couldn't quite remember the exact time, but judging from his appearance on TV now, he seemed to be doing well.

Regarding the acquisition of Lijia Soft Drinks' business, we can only continue to keep an eye on it; we can't force it.

With the four-day Lunar New Year holiday over, business activities on Hong Kong Island have quickly resumed.

On the fifth day of the first lunar month, Chen Bingwen returned to his office in the Weiye Building.

There were quite a few backlogged documents, and it took him the whole morning to process them all.

In the afternoon, he specifically summoned Morris to hear the latest news from RTV.

"Mr. Chen, during the Spring Festival, we arranged some seasonal variety shows and rebroadcasts of classic dramas, and the ratings were relatively stable."

Morris reported that "the crew of 'The Land of Love' has completed the preliminary preparations and will officially start filming after the Lantern Festival."

Xu Xiaoming and Li Zhaoxiong are very motivated.

"Yes, a good show takes time to develop. There's no need to rush, but the quality must be guaranteed," Chen Bingwen instructed. "Please take good care of the daily management of the TV station."

In addition, I have an idea. The name "RTHK" has been used for so many years that its image has become somewhat rigid.

I'm considering whether to take advantage of this change of ownership to rename the TV station, symbolizing a fresh start.

Morris's eyes lit up: "Change your name? That's a good idea. It can completely get rid of the old image."

What are Mr. Chen's intentions?

"I have a preliminary idea, how about calling it Asia Television?"

Chan Bing-man said, "The vision is broader, not limited to just one corner of Hong Kong Island."

Of course, this is just a preliminary idea. A professional branding company will be needed to conduct an evaluation and design. There's no rush; we can launch it after the internal integration shows initial results.