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Chapter 760 Li Jiacheng: My courage is not as great as Lin Haoran's!
The opportunity to have real, unhindered power to realize one's ambitions under a new boss with vast capital and a clear strategy is a dream come true!
At heart, Wei Li is a business prodigy who craves challenges and wants to prove himself; a true corporate strategist.

How could the small pond of Baibaoli Group's Yalong Company contain his ambition?

The turbulent waves of Hong Kong's top business districts are the battlefield he craves!

However, Lin Haoran's strength, decisiveness, and even ruthlessness were clearly evident.

The Richardson incident clearly demonstrates that this frighteningly young boss possesses a decisiveness and sense of authority that far surpasses those of Li Jiacheng.

Although he was equally strong and decisive, wasn't he just like Richard Shin?
What they all pursue is full operational autonomy within a strategic framework.

What he needs is trust and space, not a "supervisor" who meddles in every little detail.

Can he coexist peacefully with a boss like Lin Haoran?
Where is the bottom line for Lin Haoran's demands to "execute his strategic intentions" and "maintain consistency"?

Should we only grasp the general direction, or should we also interfere with the specific operational details?
If their ideologies diverge again, will Lin Haoran treat Richard Xin the same way and ruthlessly kick him out?

Can his pride and professional reputation withstand such a risk?
Conflicting emotions tore him apart.

The immense allure of returning to Whampoa Military Academy, coupled with a deep-seated fear of the unknown power structure, plunged him into an unprecedented struggle.

Ma Shimin on the other end of the phone seemed to sense Wei Li's inner conflict at that moment, and did not urge him, but just waited quietly.

In the office, the only sounds were the unconscious tapping of Wei Li's fingers on the mahogany table and the clearly audible beating of his own heart.

Time seemed to stretch out.

He looked again out the window at the brightly lit Hutchison Whampoa Building not far away, the place where he had once fought.

Ultimately, the desire to prove his own worth, the sense of responsibility to personally push Hutchison Whampoa to new heights, and the slight expectation of the grand vision and potential shown by Lin Haoran overwhelmed his inner doubts.

He took a deep breath and spoke through the microphone: "Mr. Simon Murray, thank you for your high regard, Mr. Lam and for giving me the opportunity to serve Hutchison Whampoa again, especially at a time when it is facing new development opportunities. This is of great significance to me personally."

He paused for a moment, then stated his conditions: "However, before formally accepting this invitation, I have a request. I hope to have the opportunity to speak with Mr. Lin Haoran in person, face to face."

It wasn't about details like salary or position, but about Hutchison Whampoa's future strategic direction, each other's business philosophies, and the boundaries of trust and the extent of delegation.

He didn't use "demand" but "request," yet the insistence in his words was crystal clear.

He needed to see for himself the young man who was stirring up trouble, and to personally assess the vision and magnanimity hidden behind those sharp eyes.

He needed to confirm whether this powerful new boss could truly provide him, the equally powerful "firefighter," with the space to showcase his talents that he craved.

In the workplace, it has always been a two-way selection process.

This was a crucial interview, and the positions of the interviewer and the applicant seemed to become delicate.

He, Wayne, needs to personally verify whether this stage is worth risking his career reputation and pride once again.

Ma Shimin on the other end of the phone didn't seem surprised by the request; his tone even carried a hint of approving amusement.

“I completely understand, Mr. Wei Li. Our boss has always hoped to have the opportunity to have in-depth discussions with you, a former legendary figure at Hutchison Whampoa.”

"How about tomorrow afternoon at 3 PM, in my boss's office at Kang Le Building? Is that convenient?"

"Can you stay for a few days? As you know, Yalong Company is at a critical juncture right now. Mr. Luo Xurui invited me here at great expense for the purpose of the acquisition of China-Brazil. We must give Mr. Luo Xurui a proper explanation."

This is not only a matter of professional ethics, but also of my reputation in the Hong Kong business community. Please tell Mr. Lin that I will be waiting for you anytime in a week.” After thinking for a moment, Wei Li replied cautiously.

Although the acquisition of China-Pakistan by the Baibaoli Group can be considered a failure, it is not a complete failure.

Only by formally declaring defeat can he leave the Baibaoli Group openly and legitimately.

In short, he did his best.

Currently, the three competitors of Chung Hwa Bus are the Yan family, the former head of Chung Hwa Bus; the Kwok family of Sun Hung Kai Properties; and the Lo family.

Now, after months of fighting, the situation is becoming increasingly clear.

Thanks to its deep roots in the China-Pakistan business and its extensive network of contacts, the Yan family has always maintained a significant advantage and remains the largest shareholder.

The Kwok family of Sun Hung Kai Properties, with their deep pockets, has been launching price wars in the market and continuously increasing their stake in China Bus with their strong financial resources.

The Luo family was not to be outdone. Luo Xurui invited Wei Li to join them with a large sum of money, hoping to stand out in this fierce competition by leveraging Wei Li's business acumen and strategic vision.

However, during his time at Yalong Company, although the acquisition of China-Brazil had not yet been completely defeated, he knew in his heart that continuing to drag it out would only be futile.

Because, although the Luo family is not poor, it is not worth it to compete with the other two families at all costs.

With all parties locked in a stalemate and secondary market resources being excessively depleted, breaking through this impasse is as difficult as climbing to the heavens.

Therefore, in Wei Li's view, the Yan family should withdraw from this chaotic battle.

How the Guo family and the Luo family compete is no longer relevant to the Luo family.

He plans to have a serious talk with Luo Xurui and his father Luo Yingshi to persuade them to give up their covetousness for China-Pakistan.

Because now they have another advantage, which is that while the Yan family and the Guo family are locked in a fierce battle, the shares of China Bus controlled by the Luo family have become a coveted prize for both sides.

Therefore, Baibaolialon Company will not only not lose money, but may even make a fortune from this opportunity.

In this way, Wei Li's joining Yalong Company this time was not a complete defeat. On the contrary, he helped Yalong Company make a profit, which can be regarded as giving Luo Xurui an explanation.

Ma Shimin on the other end of the phone paused briefly before replying, "No problem, Mr. Wei Li. Your considerations are very thorough. Professional ethics and business reputation are indeed of paramount importance."

I will relay your words to Mr. Lin verbatim. Your boss's office will be open to you anytime starting a week from now.

……

At Shi Xundao Villa, Lin Haoran received a call from Ma Shimin after finishing dinner.

Ma Shimin recounted his conversation with Wei Li to Lin Haoran in detail.

"Boss, Mr. Wei Li is deeply impressed by your vision and strategic thinking. He hopes to meet with you to discuss Hutchison Whampoa's future strategic blueprint and the boundaries of his authority and responsibilities. However, he needs a week to handle matters at the company."

A faint smile appeared on Lin Haoran's lips.

"The boundaries of authority and responsibility?" he repeated softly.

"Being pragmatic and knowing how to fight for what you want is very good. Tell Wei Li that I look forward to talking to a commander who truly has strategic vision, understands his own position, and dares to take risks on the right track."

Hutchison Whampoa's new era needs new minds to lead it. He wants a stage to showcase his talents, and I can provide that, but only if he understands who Hutchison Whampoa truly belongs to!

Lin Haoran knew quite a bit about this Mr. Wei Li. Since he wanted to talk to him, it meant that the other party also really wanted to return to Hutchison Whampoa.

“This shows he’s serious about this opportunity, boss,” Ma Shimin said on the other end of the phone. “Someone like Wei Li won’t compromise easily; he needs to make sure the stage is big enough and the spotlight is bright enough.”

His request for this meeting precisely demonstrates his sincerity and importance.

“I understand.” Lin Haoran stood in front of the French windows in his study, gazing at the hazy night view of Victoria Peak outside, his tone calm. “A capable person naturally has a temper.”

I'm giving him this time, and I look forward to meeting him. This week, you can use the time to sort out some key matters after Richard's departure to ensure a smooth transition.

"Understood, boss."

After hanging up the phone, Lin Haoran's lips curled into a playful smile.

Wylie's caution and persistence did not displease him; on the contrary, he appreciated them even more.

He didn't want a subservient executor, but a commander who could stand alone, with courage and strategy.

Wei Li's performance is exactly what he expected of this position.

As for Richard, the reason why Lin Haoran treated him in such a different way is actually quite simple.

Richard's abilities are outstanding, a fact that Lin Haoran is well aware of and has never denied.

However, he made a huge mistake that Lin Haoran could not tolerate: he openly tried to seize power in front of everyone, which was clearly an attempt to embarrass Lin Haoran.
Moreover, compared to Wylie, Richard's abilities are slightly inferior, and he is not capable enough to lead the entire Hutchison Whampoa.

If Lin Haoran doesn't fire someone like this as a warning to others, what's the point of keeping him around?
He can delegate authority, but this is something he does voluntarily, avoiding excessive interference in the company's normal operations, which demonstrates magnanimity and trust.

Instead of management excluding him outright, the fact that the boss couldn't control the company's power dynamics was a blatant challenge to his authority.

Lin Haoran naturally understood that if the matter was not dealt with seriously, more people would inevitably follow suit.

He couldn't endure humiliation and hardship for three years like Li Jiacheng, nor was it necessary for him to.

By choosing to consult with him, Wei Li at least demonstrated respect and a willingness to cooperate, which laid the foundation for dialogue.

Lin Haoran naturally understood that managing talented people was like taming a wild horse; one needed both the courage to control it as it galloped a thousand miles and the means to prevent it from breaking free and turning on one's back.

Welly is a thoroughbred horse, and he deserves his patience and skill.

In the blink of an eye, a night had passed.

The date has arrived: Tuesday, September 22nd.

The morning light pierced the thin mist over Victoria Harbour, but could not dispel the chill hanging over Hong Kong's business community.

The controversy sparked by what happened yesterday in the conference room on the top floor of Hutchison Whampoa Tower has begun to sweep the city.

"Breaking news! Cheung Kong Holdings is withdrawing from Hutchison Whampoa, and Hutchison Whampoa welcomes a new owner!"

"Lee Ka-shing lost his job at Hutchison Whampoa in less than a year!" "Swift and decisive! On his first day at the helm of Hutchison Whampoa, Lin Haoran fired CEO Richard Shin on the spot!"

"A bloody storm! The new leader establishes his authority, while the old commander Huang is defeated and killed!"

Newsboys' hoarse cries echoed along Queen's Road. The front pages of the newspapers in their hands, still wet with ink, all featured shocking headlines accompanied by blurry photos of Richard Shin being "escorted" out of Hutchison House by security guards, looking utterly dejected.

Yesterday afternoon, shortly after firing Richardson, Hutchison Whampoa made the news public.

This is why major media outlets have made it their headline today.

Financial commentators on major radio and television stations spoke with great enthusiasm, their words filled with disbelief and deep apprehension.

"Dear listeners, this is no ordinary personnel appointment or dismissal! This is Lin Haoran's bloody purge of the entire Hong Kong management culture! Who is Richard Shin? He has been in charge of Hutchison Whampoa's core business for many years and was a foreign president relied upon during the Li Ka-shing era!"

His carefully prepared 'proposal', along with that of his trusted team, was intended to divide the power structure before the new leader had a firm foothold, but it was crushed by Lin Haoran in the most direct and violent way!
Negotiation? Game? In Lin Sheng's eyes, perhaps they don't exist at all! What he wants is absolute submission! The voice of the senior commentator on Commercial Radio Taiwan transmitted a chill through the airwaves.

"Richard... he was just fired like that? Not even a night to give him a break?"

"This isn't Lin Sheng taking control; it's 'conquest'! He's using Richard Xin's head to declare to the entire Hutchison Whampoa and even the whole of Hong Kong: those who submit to me prosper, those who oppose me perish!"

What entrenched interest groups, what meritorious veterans—they were utterly powerless before his absolute control and ruthless methods!

Lin Haoran's takeover and Richard's dismissal did indeed cause a great stir in Hong Kong.

Too decisive, too ruthless.

And indeed, a great deal of things happened that day.

First, yesterday morning, Lin Haoran and Li Jiacheng jointly held a press conference to announce that Li Jiacheng was withdrawing from Hutchison Whampoa and that Lin Haoran was acquiring the Hutchison Whampoa shares held by Cheung Kong Holdings, officially declaring Lin Haoran's takeover of Hutchison Whampoa.

Secondly, this marks Li Jiacheng's formal declaration of defeat, and his eventual forced reconciliation with Lin Haoran, which is extremely rare in his business history.

Finally, on the very day Lin Haoran took over, he made an example of someone among Hutchison Whampoa's senior management by ousting the top leader. Such decisive measures were truly unbelievable.

What happened in one day was more exciting than what usually happens in a year.

In local teahouses, food stalls, and outside the stock exchange, the discussions among ordinary citizens were filled with shock, awe, and even a touch of fanaticism.

"Wow! Mr. Lam is really bold and daring! He fired a CEO without batting an eye! It's like something out of a movie!" In a tea restaurant in Yau Ma Tei, a young man exclaimed in shock as he read the description in the newspaper, drawing echoes from the surrounding diners.

"What do you know! This is called 'a new broom sweeps clean'! The first fire is burning so brightly, it's clearly a warning to others! And it seems that even the top executives of Hutchison Whampoa are afraid. No wonder Lin Haoran can become the richest man in Hong Kong, he really has guts!" A middle-aged man wearing gold-rimmed glasses and reading the financial section next to him analyzed, his tone filled with awe.

"Well done!" An old man with white hair took a sip of strong tea and said slowly, "I read in the newspaper that Richard Shin wanted to negotiate with Mr. Lin, asking him to be a 'retired emperor' with no power to interfere."
"Are you crazy?! This company was bought with real money. Employees should have the awareness of being employees. Mr. Lin's actions show the true style of a big boss! He's got guts! I support Mr. Lin!"

“He certainly has backbone, but do you think Richard’s men might rebel? How can such a big company operate without those capable executives?” Some people expressed their concerns.

"Rebellion? Take a closer look at the news! After Mr. Lin fired Richard, that business director, Mr. Xia, was the first to raise his hand in support! Everyone else immediately followed suit!"
Mr. Lin said on the spot, "Let bygones be bygones," but anyone who dared to disobey would suffer the same fate as Richard. That's what you call "a combination of kindness and severity"! Brilliant! Truly brilliant!" The man with the gold-rimmed glasses exclaimed repeatedly, drawing a chorus of agreement.

At the entrance of the stock exchange, the retail investors gathered were even more excited.

Although the change of power at Hutchison Whampoa forced the stock exchange to suspend trading for another day, the news of Lin Haoran's "iron-fisted military rule" was seen as a major positive, fueling their boundless imagination about the future stock price.

Moreover, Lin Haoran has publicly announced that he will not seek to privatize Hutchison Whampoa, which has made many people more optimistic about Hutchison Whampoa's future.

Many people are already preparing to buy Hutchison Whampoa shares once the stock market resumes trading.

Lin Haoran has become a reliable figure in the Hong Kong stock market.

The listed companies controlled by Lam Ho-yin, such as Hong Kong Electric Holdings, Hong Kong Telephone, and Hong Kong and China Gas, all have very good stock prices now.

Therefore, barring unforeseen circumstances, Hutchison Whampoa's stock price still has significant room for growth in the future.

As for Hutchison Whampoa's current debts, in everyone's view, with Lin Haoran's takeover, none of this is a problem anymore.

"Mr. Lin is so ruthless right off the bat, he's definitely going to implement sweeping reforms at Hutchison Whampoa! Their performance is sure to skyrocket!"

"That's right! Back in Li Ka-shing's time, Huang was old and frail, but now Mr. Lin has come and eliminated factions as soon as they arrive. The efficiency is so much faster! We must buy in after the stock resumes trading!"

"Need I say more? Just look at how much Hong Kong Electric's stock price has soared. It's now the top-performing stock in Hong Kong! The market loves strong, decisive leaders!"

In the minds of the general public, Lin Haoran's image instantly transformed from a mysterious financial tycoon into a ruthless and decisive "business tycoon" who controls everything.

His name itself possesses a captivating and alluring magic.

The top-floor office of the Kang Le Building, located at the center of the storm, was eerily quiet.

Lin Haoran stood in front of the huge floor-to-ceiling window, looking down at the bustling city below.

The morning light gilded his straight back with a golden edge, yet it inexplicably exuded a chill.

Ma Shimin walked in with steady steps, holding several freshly printed newspapers in his hands. Without exception, the headline read, "Lin Haoran's swift and decisive actions lead to Richard's demise." His face was filled with sincere admiration.

"Boss, the whole city is in an uproar. The effect has far exceeded expectations. It's no exaggeration to say that Hutchison Whampoa is now in a state of high alert and strict discipline. Xia Boyin called me personally to report that the team is all in place and the core business is operating as usual, or even more efficiently."

Lin Haoran did not turn around, his voice calm and even: "As expected, the deep-rooted problems can only be cured with strong medicine. Richard's overestimation of his abilities has given me an opportunity to reshape the rules and establish absolute authority."

His fate was for all to see; fear is the most effective adhesive; loyalty needs to be nurtured in the soil of reverence.

"Your move completely intimidated the old guard of Hutchison Whampoa and shook the entire Hong Kong."

Ma Shimin nodded and then handed over another document. “According to our investigation, shareholders are optimistic about your takeover of Hutchison Whampoa. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, Hutchison Whampoa’s shares will rise sharply. In this way, we can smoothly sell off our excess shares at a good price.”

Lin Haoran took the document, but did not look at it carefully. He casually placed it on the large mahogany desk.

"The share reduction will proceed as planned, and I will use the cash recovered for other purposes," Lin Haoran said directly.

The established goal is to reduce the shareholding to 75%.

Now, he holds 86.9% of Hutchison Whampoa's shares, which can indeed be converted into a considerable amount of cash.

Once Hutchison Whampoa's shares return to their peak, or even surpass previous levels, the additional 11.9% stake could bring in at least several billion Hong Kong dollars.

This is a considerable sum of money.

The Chinese Building, located a few hundred meters away from the Kang Le Building, houses the headquarters of Cheung Kong Holdings.

Li Jiacheng sat in the chairman's office, looking at the contents of the newspaper, his expression suddenly shifting between light and dark.

Yesterday, he became the loser, and in front of all of Hong Kong, he completed that highly anticipated handover with Lin Haoran.

At this moment, the headlines in the newspapers were like resounding slaps to his past glories.

"Cheung Kong exits Hutchison Whampoa, Hutchison Whampoa welcomes a new owner!"

"Lee Ka-shing fled Cheung Kong in less than a year after taking control!"

These words stung his eyes and his ever-proud heart.

Li Jiacheng has been a prominent figure in the business world for many years; when has he ever been so embarrassed?
But now, faced with the reality, he has no choice but to accept this somewhat bitter outcome.

He slowly put down the newspaper, tapping his fingers lightly on the table as he fell into deep thought.

Now that things have come to this, he has gradually come to accept the facts.

Lin Haoran, this terrifyingly young opponent, displayed such swift and decisive methods as soon as he took over Hutchison Whampoa, firing Richard Xin, reshaping the rules, and establishing his authority. This series of actions was as smooth as flowing water, without any hesitation.

He had to admit that Lin Haoran possessed extraordinary courage and decisiveness.

"My courage is far inferior to Lin Haoran's!" he murmured.

During his nearly one year as chairman of the board of directors of Hutchison Whampoa, he had been tolerant of Richardson. It wasn't that he hadn't considered taking a tougher approach, but he had many concerns.

The complex web of interests within Hutchison Whampoa made him tread carefully with every step he took, fearing that a single misstep could trigger internal turmoil and jeopardize the company's stable development.

Lin Haoran, upon his arrival, shattered the old order with lightning speed. His decisiveness and ruthlessness were truly something Lin Haoran could not match.

At that moment, he suddenly felt that he had accepted his defeat wholeheartedly.

When he first took over Hutchison Whampoa, he believed that his future achievements would be no less than those of Lin Haoran.

However, now that he has been defeated by Lin Haoran, he has to re-examine his business philosophy and style of doing things, and has also learned a lot from it.

However, this "tuition fee" is far too expensive!
At this moment, Li Ka-shing faces another issue: how to deal with Lin Haoran in the future.

This time, he and Lin Haoran have almost become mortal enemies in the business world.

But then the other party happened to become the vice chairman of Cheung Kong Holdings.

This situation is truly awkward.

Li Ka-shing put down the newspaper he was reading, slowly stood up, and paced back and forth in his office.

His brows were furrowed, and deep lines appeared on his forehead from time to time.

"No, I need to go and have a chat with Brother Bao." Li Ka-shing suddenly stopped and muttered to himself.

After saying that, he went straight to the coat rack, picked up the suit jacket, quickly put it on, and strode out of the office.

　Asking for monthly ticket
　　
　
(End of this chapter)