After listening to Dolsen’s account, Li Yi’s brows furrowed.
According to him, just this morning, London had issued an order requiring all European families and companies to cease cooperation with the newly established Dolsons family; failure to comply would be considered a challenge to the authority of the British Empire.
At the same time, this order had also reached Hong Kong Island. Downing Street demanded that the Governor’s Office strictly enforce it and use every means at its disposal to suppress the Dolsons.
Although Dowson currently controls the British-owned conglomerates on Hong Kong Island, without the support of the Sassoon family and Downing Street, not only is his authority being questioned by some within the group, but he is also limited to mobilizing only the British-owned companies on Hong Kong Island.
As for the British-owned conglomerates in Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asia, Dolsons had absolutely no influence over them.
Consequently, the Dolsons and the entire British-owned conglomerate now face immense pressure—plagued by internal strife and external threats—and could disintegrate at any moment.
Consequently, Dolsons has appealed to Li Yi for assistance.
If the Chinese Chamber of Commerce is willing to cooperate with them, their pressure will be significantly reduced.
At the very least, within the confines of Hong Kong Island, the Chinese Chamber of Commerce’s influence was unquestionable, and Li Yi’s prestige was unmatched.
After a moment’s thought, Li Yi asked, “What’s the Sassoon family’s stance? Have they taken any action against you?”
“Not yet. At least so far, the Castle hasn’t issued any orders targeting our family. They’ve merely severed our ties to the company shares and funds held by our branch—it’s more like they’ve expelled us from the family!” Dalson replied.
Li Yi nodded. He could understand this outcome; after all, his people were masters at hedging their bets.
“Dorson, how would you like me to help you?”
“If possible, the Chinese Chamber of Commerce and the British-owned Group could merge to form a brand-new chamber. Alternatively, I could lead the 44 families and over 150 companies of the British-owned Group to join the Chinese Chamber of Commerce!”
Hearing Dowson’s words, Li Yi couldn’t help but twitch the corner of his mouth. Isn’t that just the classic “if you can’t beat ’em, join ’em”?
This guy really knows his strategy!
Once the British-Owned Group and the Chinese Chamber of Commerce merged, any external opposition against them would be tantamount to opposing the Chinese Chamber of Commerce—and by extension, the entire business community of Hong Kong Island.
The implications of this move were too far-reaching; even the Governor’s Office and the British Hong Kong government wouldn’t dare to pull off such a reckless stunt.
Furthermore, once the two chambers merged, the British-Owned Group would enjoy the same membership benefits as the Chinese Chamber of Commerce—a definite boon for a group already under immense pressure.
To be honest, Li Yi was quite tempted by Dolsen’s proposal—this was a golden opportunity to unify Hong Kong Island’s business community.
But after careful consideration, Li Yi decided to reject Dolsen’s request.
“Dawson, the Hong Kong Chinese Chamber of Commerce is merely a branch of the Global Chinese Chamber of Commerce. Our mission is to admit only Chinese business members. Whether it’s a merger or accepting your membership, it’s simply not feasible!”
Dawson stared at Li Yi intently, then said with a puzzled expression, “Li, you must know that if you accept our membership, you’ll effectively control the entire Hong Kong business community. I can’t understand why you’d reject this proposal. Are you worried about retaliation from London? But that shouldn’t be the case…”
Li Yi looked at him and said, “I don’t care about retaliation from those people in London. Their influence is certainly formidable, but defeating me won’t be that easy.”
“Then why…”
Before Dolsen could finish, Li Yi cut in: “There are two main reasons I’m refusing your request to join. First, I don’t want your membership to disrupt the atmosphere of unity within our Chinese Chamber of Commerce. As a leader, you should know how rare it is to have unconditional trust among members.”
“The second reason is because of you…”
“Me?”
“That’s right!”
Li Yi continued, “Dawson, even though we’ve buried the hatchet and are no longer enemies, in my eyes you’re still a wolf—and a lone wolf at that.”
“Although you joined us with the British-funded group under external pressure, you’ve never truly accepted it. Once you’re free from that pressure—or once the Chinese Chamber of Commerce no longer holds a power advantage over you—you’ll certainly break away from the Chamber and go your own way again…”
“Li, I can guarantee…”
Before he could finish, Li Yi smiled and said, “Dawson, there’s no need to rush into making promises—especially since your promises are worthless in my eyes!”
Just as Dolsen’s expression turned slightly awkward and a hint of disappointment flashed in his eyes, Li Yi suddenly changed the subject and continued, “I’m not saying this to humiliate you, but to let you know that I’ve never underestimated you. I can help you—but not in the way you suggested!”
“Then what way is that?” Dolsen asked immediately.
Li Yi replied, “The biggest problem you’re facing right now isn’t external pressure, but internal unrest. In short, morale is low, and the team is hard to lead!”
“In light of this situation, I can support you in taking decisive action. Any companies or families willing to follow orders from London can be targeted.”
“At the same time, I can personally step in to organize a meeting between members of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce and your British-funded group to strengthen our cooperation.”
“Most importantly, I can help you exact revenge and establish your authority—making London take a major fall…”
“How exactly will you exact revenge and establish your authority, and what price will I have to pay?” Dolsen asked earnestly.
“Please allow me to keep the specific method confidential for now. As for the cost? Forget about it—after all, I already promised to help you out once!” Li Yi said.
Thinking of what was about to unfold in the British Empire, the corners of Li Yi’s mouth couldn’t help but turn up slightly.
However, to teach those Brits a harsh lesson, he couldn’t do it alone—after all, those bastards were now deeply wary of him.
So before taking action, Li Yi needed to find a few allies—preferably ones with a solid local foothold. Aside from the Henry family, Dolsen was undoubtedly the best candidate.
And that was the most important reason Li Yi was willing to help Dolsen…
After hearing Li Yi’s words, however, Dolsen shook his head and said, “That favor isn’t worth that much. If you can really help me get this revenge, I’ll transfer 3% of Jiasheng Company’s shares to your name!”
“No need. We already hold 10% of your family’s company; any more than that wouldn’t be appropriate.”
Li Yi then changed the subject and said, “If you really feel you owe me, you can do me a favor in return!”
“What is it?”
“Facilitate the merger of the Hong Kong Island Stock Exchange and establish a United Exchange!” Li Yi said.
“Certainly. Mr. Li Futao has already approached me about this. I agree in principle, and I will do my best to persuade the leaders of the Kowloon Association and the Gold and Silver Association to join the United Exchange!” Dolsen said earnestly.
Jiasheng Company, owned by the Dalson family, specializes in securities trading. Unifying the stock market would be entirely beneficial for them—after all, only by making the pie bigger would everyone have the chance to get a larger slice.
Therefore, they naturally welcomed the merger of the securities markets.
“Alright, then it’s settled!” Li Yi said.
“Let’s work together!”
“Looking forward to working with you…”
……….
Chapter 1,010: Star Glory Investment Company!
The next day!
When Li Yi woke up, it was almost 11 o’clock.
The moment he opened his eyes, Li Yi’s mind went blank, as if he had lost his memory.
He knew he’d blacked out from drinking…
He lay in bed for a while, letting his mind settle, until his memories gradually returned, and a spark of clarity returned to his eyes.
Those guests yesterday had been far too enthusiastic; anyone of any standing wanted to come over and toast him.
Even with Old Huang and Li Yunbao there to help him turn down drinks, and even though Li Yi only took small sips when clinking glasses with others, his tolerance was simply too poor, so he didn’t last long before passing out.
In fact, Li Yi didn’t even know how he’d made it back to his bedroom, let alone when the party had ended…
Feeling the strong smell of alcohol on his body and a faint burning sensation in his stomach, Li Yi immediately got out of bed and headed for the bathroom.
Although showering on an empty stomach can lead to low blood sugar, he didn’t have time to worry about that—the smell on his body was simply too awful.
After showering and changing into some relatively casual clothes, Li Yi went downstairs.
It had to be said that the team hired by the Chen siblings was truly professional; there was no sign of the mess he had imagined.
All the rented tables, chairs, and dining sets in the courtyard were gone, and even the open area and lawn outside had been cleaned up. It was as if nothing had ever happened, which left Li Yi very satisfied.
When Li Yi arrived downstairs, Zhang Ziqiang, Zhou Wen, and the others were all there, seemingly deep in conversation.
In addition, Li Yi spotted someone who took him by surprise—Yang Qian.
As soon as they saw Li Yi coming downstairs, the group stopped talking and stood up from the sofa.
Walking over to the sofa, Li Yi first said to Zhang Ziqiang, “Go to the kitchen and get me something to eat. Make sure it’s light!”
“Got it!”
Li Yi then turned to Yang Qian and asked with a smile, “What brings you here?”
“Manager Zhao asked me to come and report to you!”
“Oh? What’s the matter? Why didn’t she come herself?” Li Yi asked, puzzled.
“Today, members of the Chamber of Commerce brought contracts to our company to redeem their principal and interest. Since the amount is so large, Manager Zhao needs to handle it personally, so she really couldn’t get away!”
Yang Qian continued, “As for the work-related matters, I’ll report them to you privately after you finish your meal!”
“Alright!”
After quickly finishing a bowl of plain congee and two vegetarian buns, Li Yi led Yang Qian to the reception room on the second floor.
After they had taken their seats, Li Yi asked immediately, “Go ahead, what’s on your mind?”
“Manager Zhao asked me to bring you this document. Please sign it as soon as possible!”
As she spoke, Yang Qian took a document out of her briefcase and handed it to Li Yi.
Li Yi took the document and examined it closely, realizing it was a funding request.
Once he had clearly read the reason for the allocation and the amount, Li Yi asked immediately, “Is this money intended for the State Administration of Foreign Exchange?”
“Yes!”
“So, does that mean the profits from the London, Tokyo, and New York teams have already been received?” Li Yi asked again.
“Yes, and the Finance Department has already converted a large portion of the US dollars into Hong Kong dollars, as you requested!” Yang Qian replied.
Li Yi nodded, then quickly signed his name at the bottom of the document.
After returning the signed document to Yang Qian, Li Yi said again, “I’ve signed the document. Have Zhao Xinlan prepare the funds as soon as possible and send them to the Wan Chai Pier. I’ll have someone contact the mainland to arrange for the money to be shipped back!”
“Should I let Director Xu and the others know?” Yang Qian asked again.
“No need. I’ll have Zhou Wen contact the State Security Bureau. After all, they’re the professionals when it comes to this sort of thing!” Li Yi said.
“Alright!”
“By the way, how’s the preparation for registering the new company coming along?” Li Yi asked again.
“Manager Lan Xinming is already handling it, but she needs your authorization!”
With that, Yang Qian took a thin document out of her handbag and handed it directly to Li Yi.
Li Yi picked up the document, glanced at it briefly, and then signed his name at the bottom.
After returning the signed document to Yang Qian, Li Yi assumed she would leave immediately, but to his surprise, she stared straight at him, showing no intention of taking her leave.
“Is there anything else?” Li Yi asked again.
Yang Qian didn’t speak. Instead, she took a thick stack of newspapers out of her briefcase and handed it to Li Yi.
With a hint of puzzlement, Li Yi picked up the newspapers and began to read.
After glancing through them for a moment, he was stunned.
The front-page headlines of all these newspapers were filled with reports on last night’s cocktail party—even the entertainment tabloids were no exception. It was as if nothing else of significance had happened on Hong Kong Island yesterday besides that grand event.
Some papers claimed that the cocktail party was a high-profile display of strength by Li Yi and the Chinese Chamber of Commerce, flexing their muscles in front of rivals and potential enemies.
Others claimed it was Li Yi’s declaration to Hong Kong’s political and business circles that he had become the top figure in the city’s business world—a coronation ceremony for the new king…
But regardless of which media outlet, the reviews of the reception were overwhelmingly positive.
After reading these reports, Li Yi couldn’t help but let the corners of his mouth turn up slightly.
Although his true purpose in hosting this reception wasn’t what outsiders speculated—he simply wanted to gather with everyone before leaving and take care of a few matters along the way—
But achieving such an outcome wasn’t bad at all—truly, when you plant flowers with intent, they may not bloom, but when you plant willows without thinking, they grow into a lush grove!
After a moment’s thought, Li Yi asked, “Will this have any impact on the company?”
“Yes!”
Yang Qian continued, “Early this morning, quite a few people went to the company headquarters and asked us to handle their investments.”
“Also, influenced by these reports, investors are very bullish on the Chinese Chamber of Commerce’s listed companies, and their stock prices have all risen—and significantly so.”
Li Yi nodded and said, “Excellent. Tell Lan Xinyi that no matter how many people entrust us with their investments, we’ll accept them all.”
“Yes!”
“All right, if there’s nothing else, you should head back to the office,” Li Yi said.
“Yes…”
After seeing Yang Qian off, Li Yi immediately summoned Zhang Ziqiang and Zhou Wen to his office and instructed them to contact the State Security Bureau to arrange for the transfer of those billions of dollars back to Pengcheng as soon as possible and hand them over to the State Administration of Foreign Exchange…
………….
Over the next few days, aside from preparing for the new company, Li Yi spent the rest of his time taking Zhang Ziqiang, Zhou Wen, and the others shopping.
After all, they were about to head back, so they had to bring some gifts for their families.
Soon, the new company was up and running.
The new company was named Star Glory Investment, primarily engaged in infrastructure investment, real estate, and hotel operations, with a registered capital of 10 billion Hong Kong dollars. Li Yi personally served as its chairman.
Lan Xinming served as the company’s CEO, while the deputy general manager was Liao Yingxiang—the very person his third sister’s husband had mentioned to him earlier.
General Manager Liao was also a member of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce. He owned several companies and had personal assets worth tens of billions of Hong Kong dollars, making him a powerhouse among Chinese business leaders.
The decision to appoint Liao Yingxiang as deputy general manager was partly due to his outstanding capabilities, particularly his deep understanding of infrastructure investment.
On the other hand, through his prior research, Liao Yingxiang fully understood the immense market potential across the strait and had already decided to expand his business there.
Consequently, Li Yi decisively invited Liao Yingxiang to serve as the company’s deputy general manager, entrusting him with full authority over investment operations on the mainland.
By the time these matters were settled, it was already mid-November, and Third Sister’s due date was just a few days away.
Subsequently, Li Yi, accompanied by Zhang Ziqiang, Zhou Wen, and others, returned to Guangzhou…
………..