A century-old wealthy family that rose from Shanghai

Time flies, and we've already entered the second half of the year.

London.

Chen Wensheng, accompanied by his sister Chen Mengyi, traveled to London to discuss the acquisition of Hong Kong's RTV with Rediffusion. Prior to this, both parties had already made contact through their subordinates and lawyers, and Riffusion UK, considering RTV's continued losses, had expressed its willingness to sell.

Upon arriving in London, Chen Wensheng and Chen Mengyi were picked up by their third aunt, Audrey Hepburn, and then arrived at the London manor villa, where Chen Wenou and his wife, Chen Wenxi and his wife, Chen Daiyi, and others had all gathered, demonstrating the deep affection between the siblings.

At this time, the Chen family had a very strong business atmosphere, so even family gatherings would involve a lot of business discussions.

During the dinner, Chen Wensheng began to focus on privatization in Britain.

"Third Aunt, how is the privatization process progressing in the UK?"

Audrey Hepburn, holding her wine glass, wasn't thinking about it. She smiled and said, "Your brothers know better than I do."

Chen Wenou immediately said, "We started experimenting with privatization this year, initially with pilot programs for small state-owned enterprises. The results have been very good, so the London government is preparing to launch a large-scale privatization plan. The first batch of large companies to be privatized includes British Telecom, BP, and British Airways."

Chen Wensheng asked curiously, "So how do you operate in this way? As far as I know, privatization in Britain mainly involves selling a portion of the shares to the citizens."

The so-called privatization in Britain is different from the privatization that occurred in mainland China in the 1990s.

For example, if British Telecom owns 1 million shares, the London government might contribute 5000 million shares and sell them to British citizens. In this way, the government would effectively remain the majority shareholder.

Of course, as privatization becomes more extensive, the government will hold less and less equity and its say will gradually decrease; at the same time, the influx of a large number of external directors and professional managers will make the company operate more healthily.

In simple terms, it means going public and operating these companies according to the rules for going public.

25-year-old Chen Wenxi then said, "Sixth Brother, those retail investors can't hold on to their stocks after making a little profit, which naturally gives us capital an opportunity."

Chen Wensheng suddenly realized that retail investors are still retail investors. They buy stocks from the government for 1 pound, but as soon as the price rises to 1.2 pounds, they can't help but want to sell.

Capital gradually buys up their shares from the market, becoming major shareholders of large British companies, and eventually joining the board of directors.

While they may not hold a controlling stake, they can still exert a certain degree of influence within these companies.

The second round of privatization in the UK was a key investment strategy for Audrey Hepburn's family, with British Telecom and BP being undoubtedly high-quality assets.

Then, Chen Wenou asked, "Sixth Brother, Second Sister, how confident are you this time?"

He heard that this was part of his father's grand plan, so he was very concerned.

Chen Mengyi said proudly, "Perfect!"

The group then talked about their families. Chen Wenou and Chen Wenxi were both married to European women, and only a quarter of the third generation of their family had Han Chinese genes.

Although appearances may change significantly, Chinese culture will be passed down. It is essential to learn Chinese from a young age, understand Chinese history, and have some knowledge of Confucianism.

Upon arriving at Rediffusion's UK office, both teams began negotiations in the conference room.

In fact, it wasn't just Hong Kong's RTV that suffered long-term losses; RTV UK also failed to diversify, so selling Hong Kong's RTV was perfectly logical.

The problem now is that the management of Rediffusion in the UK had some other ideas when they learned that the buyer was the Chen family.

At the start of the negotiations, Charles, the president of Rediffusion, said, "Mr. Chen, Ms. Chen, if your father, Sir Chen, were to negotiate, I believe we would definitely succeed this time. I think he has more courage and decisiveness."

A method of provoking generals?

Chen Wensheng immediately recognized the other party's intention and said with a smile, "My father has already retired, and even if he hadn't retired, he would have handed over small businesses like this to his subordinates to negotiate."

The management of RTV looked at each other in bewilderment, as if they had suffered a defeat—the other side's meaning was simple: RTV was not a big business, but a loss-making television station that had long lived in the shadow of TVB.

"Haha," Charles quickly covered up with laughter and continued, "Alright then! Let's get straight to the point. What price are you willing to offer?"

“HKD 1 million! That’s a very attractive price! And after we buy this 50% stake, you will still hold 15%. If we succeed in operating this business, the value of your remaining stake will increase significantly.”

In fact, the first thing Chen Wensheng and Chen Mengyi did after taking over was to 'mess up' ATV, and then take the opportunity to acquire the remaining shares.

Charles said earnestly, "The price is too low. We'd rather continue operating at this price!"

Chen Wensheng said, "I'm afraid it will be difficult! First of all, TVB has a monopoly in Hong Kong, and RTV was once unable to compete with another new television station (CTV); secondly, we also need to consider the political conditions, as the situation in Hong Kong has changed with the development policies of the mainland; finally, of course, it is a win-win cooperation, and you will still hold 15% of the shares."

After saying this, Charles exchanged glances with his colleagues, then said helplessly, "Okay! I admit, you're a master negotiator. This deal is done."

When the political environment was first discussed, Charles and other high-ranking officials, who were eager to promote the company, were eager to sell it.

Subsequently, they did have some expectations for the so-called 'win-win cooperation'.

TVB, Hong Kong's largest television station, is already worth over HK$10 billion. If RTV (Rediffusion Television) develops, their remaining 15% stake could potentially grow several times over.

The Chen family is not new to running a television station, after all, they have been involved in Times Film Production and Oriental Daily News, so they are no strangers to the media industry.

When the Chan family announced their acquisition of the 50% stake in RTV (Rediffusion Television) held by RTV UK, Hong Kong public opinion was instantly ignited.

"When Sir Chan's daughter, Chan Meng-yee, joined Times Pictures, it meant that the Chan family would return to the media industry, and now it seems that this has indeed come to pass."

"We can't say 'the four tigers of the Chen family' anymore, we should say 'the five tigers of the Chen family.' Who says daughters are inferior to sons? Chen Mengyi already holds 30% of the shares in Times Pictures, she's definitely the successor."

In a short time, in addition to the citizens watching the spectacle, some local entrepreneurs also felt the pressure.

Although Sir Chan has now announced his retirement, his four sons and one daughter have all grown up and possess the charisma of leaders.

Poly Plaza.

The offices of CK Asset Holdings Limited.

Chen Guangliang sat in his office chair, where a personal computer was already installed on his desk.

The wave of personal computers has arrived, and he has become one of the first to keep up with the times, mainly because he doesn't want to fall behind, even though he has experienced it in his previous life.

At this time, computers had scarce software and limited functions, but the shadow of modern office work could already be seen.

The view outside the window is one of bustling activity; Hong Kong is entering its fastest-growing era. Within five years, its per capita income will undoubtedly reach the level of the UK, which speaks volumes about its rapid development.

A large amount of capital is flowing into Hong Kong from overseas, especially as some international companies intend to use Hong Kong as a springboard to enter the vast mainland market.

The rent for top-tier office space in Central has reached HK$27 per square foot per month, meaning that a 1,000-square-foot office (100 square meters) can cost over HK$300,000 per year.

This price was something that even the later Shanghai Beach could hardly match.

"dad"

Chen Wenjie walked in, and even though he was forty-seven years old, he was as obedient as a child.

Chen Guangliang nodded and said, "It is expected that by the fourth quarter of next year (1981), both residential and commercial real estate will reach saturation and enter a downward cycle. At the same time, the issue of Hong Kong's future may also resurface at that time, and society may easily fall into turmoil."

Chen Wenjie showed no surprise and calmly replied, “Okay, I will arrange the company's strategy. First, in the next year and a half, we will sell as many residential projects as possible; second, I plan to deal with some non-core commercial real estate. Finally, redevelopment projects will be included in the plan, including the Shangri-La Building on Des Voeux Road (the former site of the Shangri-La Hotel, 3.5 square feet) and the former site of the Miramar Hotel on Nathan Road (9 square feet).”

Chen Guangliang nodded and said, "The arrangements are fine! However, I want to use the original site of the Miramar Hotel on Nathan Road as bait to lure Landsea into taking the bait."

Hongkong Land is weaker than in its previous life (its strength has been damaged), but now that Bofooda is still expanding like crazy, isn't this the perfect opportunity?

Chen Wenjie said, "Okay, then I'll release the news at the end of the year—to sell the original site of the Miramar Hotel—and see if they take the bait!"

Chen Guangliang nodded and said, "Mm."

On the other side, Chen Guangliang also checked the status of Huanqiu Shipping's ships.

A year and a half ago, WorldWide Shipping had a massive fleet of 1800 million tons, but a year and a half later, it has only a little over 900 million tons left.

25 VLCC oil tankers, with a total tonnage of 600 million tons;

56艘2000~3500TEU全货柜轮，总吨位为200万吨；    12艘散装货轮，总吨位100万吨。

It has a carrying capacity of exactly 900 million tons.

It was still a large fleet, after all, even Dong Haoyun couldn't match that scale at this time.

The difference is that Tung Chao-yung is still expanding, while Worldwide Shipping has already reduced its fleet.

"A fleet of 900 million tons is clearly the limit for reducing ships, so let's stop here!"

Chen Wenming quickly replied, "Yes, Dad. If we cut back any further, we might lose some customers for good. Besides, we have no debt; we have $8 million in our accounts."

Chen Guangliang waved his hand and said, "But remember one thing: all leases must be in case our tenants go bankrupt, so it's best if the leases are backed by a bank. Safety is the most important thing."

"Yes, we all do that!"

Then, Chen Wenming said, "Father, I also want to build a skyscraper as the headquarters for the Global Group. But our current Global Building only occupies 2 square feet, which is rather small. I heard that the Shangri-La Building is going to be rebuilt. I want to use the land of the Global Building to exchange for it and then make up the difference in price."

Although Universal Group owns Wharf Holdings, Chan Man-ming prefers to view them as two separate businesses and has no intention of moving Universal Group’s headquarters to Tsim Sha Tsui.

The Universal Group actually owns two properties in Central: the Universal Building on Des Voeux Road Central and the Universal Trade Building on Queen's Road Central.

Chen Guangliang said, "You and your older brother go and talk."

"Yes, father"

The problem is not big.

Stanley Villa.

In the pool, Kwan Ka-wai, wearing a one-piece halter swimsuit, sat on a floating foam board, holding a cocktail in her hand, watching Chan Kwong-leung swimming in the pool with great enjoyment.

"He doesn't look like a seventy-year-old man at all; he looks only forty! He's even more amazing in bed; young people might not be a match for him!" Guan Jiahui thought to herself with satisfaction.

"I wish I could be a concubine!"

Finally, Guan Jiahui couldn't help but have a crazy idea.

Of course, she quickly shook her head weakly, clearly thinking it impossible. The man was already retired; his four sons and one daughter each ran a large conglomerate.

"Then we'll ask for more money."

"uncleuncle"

Chen Guangliang swam to Guan Jiahui's side, placed his hand on her fair and smooth thigh, and asked with a smile, "What's up?"

It's so good to be young!

At this time, Guan Jiahui was at the age when she was incredibly young and tender, with every inch of her skin as white and delicate as a porcelain doll.

Her one-piece swimsuit was stretched high, and she had upgraded from a B cup in her previous life to a D cup, making her a perfect woman.

Of course, Guan Jiahui's excellence is based on her looks and figure.

Being a mistress is suitable, but being a concubine is not. Moreover, Chen Guangliang would never give any woman a formal title again.

Although he currently has four wives and concubines, apart from Jiang Meiying, who was officially married back then, Audrey Hepburn and Si Yezi have never publicly announced their marriages.

Therefore, the people of Hong Kong only know that Chan Kwong-leung was a womanizer, but he only had two wives: his first wife Yan Renmei and his second wife Jiang Meiying. Jiang Meiying immigrated to the United States early on.

With a cocktail in one hand and her other hand stroking Chen Guangliang's face, Guan Jiahui happily said, "In September, I can have a house!"

Good grief, so it's about money!

Chen Guangliang said with a smile, "What, are you afraid I'll just mess with you for nothing?"

Guan Jiahui said shyly, "Uncle! Where is it!"

Chen Guangliang was overjoyed and said happily, "This villa, worth 2000 million, will be registered in your name. Are you satisfied now?"

Guan Jiahui's eyes lit up, but she quickly asked, "I can't afford the mortgage."

She had been following this man for two years, and she had heard some things about him from Deborah.

Chen Guangliang said, "After the mortgage is paid off, we'll register the property in your name. Are you satisfied now?"

"Satisfied, satisfied"

Kwan Ka-wai leaned down and kissed Chan Kwong-leung on the lips.

It's all thanks to my own efforts!

Girls who have been blessed by Chen Guangliang will definitely be more beautiful and have better figures. This is a scientifically proven fact – superior genes.

After some playful banter, the two walked into the villa, where servants were already waiting on them.

Guan Jiahui then changed into a pink slip dress, without wearing anything underneath, since there wouldn't be any other men in the villa besides Chen Guangliang.

The two sat together and had dinner.

"Uncle, I heard you acquired RTV (Rediffusion Television). Then I'll be there next year..."

Chen Guangliang chewed on some beef bits and said casually, "What, worried that I can't support you, planning to go out and get a job?"

"No way," Guan Jiahui said with a smile, "I was just worried that if you didn't come often, I'd be bored and have nothing to do!"

He does come very infrequently, only two or three times a month, which is why Guan Jiahui is currently considered his most favored mistress.

Chen Guangliang picked up his wine glass and said, as if he had prepared in advance, "When the time comes, I will teach you how to invest. You can invest in real estate, securities, and even the clothing industry. With my guidance, you will become a tycoon in Hong Kong."

Guan Jiahui was excited upon hearing this and asked directly, "Then can you have children?"

"What are you thinking! I'm already so old, why would I want a child? Besides, childbirth is a kind of torture for women, why are you thinking about such things at such a young age!"

Guan Jiahui stuck out her tongue; actually, she had only thought there was a chance of being 'promoted'.

Chen Guangliang really likes Guan Jiahui, and it's impossible for them to break up in the next ten years. He's also a generous man and wouldn't want to waste someone else's youth.

Investing in real estate and securities is child's play. Although it can be very profitable, it can be quite boring.

Guan Jiahui had established a clothing brand in her previous life, so Chen Guangliang had some ideas for her to develop a clothing business.

"Later, I'll introduce you to a lady in the clothing industry, and she can mentor you!"

Upon hearing this, Guan Jiahui happily said, "Thank you, Uncle."

The clothing industry is a business of beauty, isn't that a great development?

Chen Guangliang laughed and said, "Then you'd better perform well tonight."

Guan Jiahui blushed. She had once asked Deborah curiously if Uncle's timing was irregular and what other men were like. The answer was self-evident.

Soon, Kwan Ka-wai changed into a pair of black stockings, still matching her pink slip dress.

The fact that even celestial beings have begun to appreciate mortal things perfectly illustrates this point.

At this time, Guan Jiahui was still very youthful, but having been a woman for two years, she naturally possessed a touch of allure. (End of Chapter)