I can see the commodity price curve

After the agreement was signed, Zhang Yue did not delay for a moment and immediately summoned the core members of the team to urgently discuss the follow-up plan in the conference room.

"Everyone, in creating super AI, besides relying on 6G technology, the most crucial thing is a super chip that can support 6G algorithms."

Currently, only Northrop Grumman, a US company, is capable of producing this type of chip.

Zhang Yue's expression was serious as he scanned the crowd. "Time is of the essence. We must set off immediately to the United States to negotiate with them and try to secure the chip supply."

The team members nodded in agreement, fully aware of the importance of this negotiation.

Soon, Zhang Yue, along with Li Fei and several technical experts and business negotiators, embarked on their journey to the United States.

After a long flight, they finally arrived at the NA Corporation headquarters.

Guided by staff, they arrived at the conference room to await the arrival of NA company executives.

A short while later, Henry, the president of NA Company, walked in with a group of people.

Henry was a tall, sharp-eyed middle-aged man. As soon as he sat down, he spoke in a slightly arrogant tone:

"Welcome, friends from China. But I'm curious, what important matter brings you all here from so far away?"

Zhang Yue stood up with a smile, extended his hand to shake hands with Henry, and said, "President Henry, I've heard so much about you."

We are here today hoping to establish a partnership with your company and purchase your super chip capable of supporting 6G algorithms for use in our ongoing super AI project.

Henry raised an eyebrow slightly, leaned back in his chair, crossed his arms in front of his chest, and said:

"Oh? The Super AI project? That sounds very ambitious."

However, as you should know, this chip involves our company's core technology, and we have always maintained very strict control over technological security.

Zhang Yue nodded and said, "President Henry, we fully understand your company's emphasis on technological security."

However, our project has enormous commercial value and social significance. If successful, it will lead the global automotive industry into a new era of intelligence.

Furthermore, we promise to strictly adhere to confidentiality agreements to ensure that your company's technology will not be leaked.

Henry sneered and said, "Mr. Zhang, promises are very weak and powerless."

Our beautiful country has always been a leader in the field of science and technology, and we don't want to bring potential risks to ourselves because of some unnecessary cooperation.

We won't easily sell this kind of chip to companies in other countries.

Li Fei couldn't listen anymore. He stood up and said, somewhat agitated:

"President Henry, the development of science and technology should be shared globally and progress together."

You cannot hinder technological exchange and cooperation because of so-called 'technological security'.

Our super AI project will bring enormous benefits to humanity; your rejection of it is incredibly short-sighted.

Henry's face darkened, and he said, "Young man, watch your words."

Our company, NA, has its own principles and stance, and we will not change our decisions based on your few words.

"You should leave now. We won't sell you this chip."

Seeing the tense atmosphere, Zhang Yue quickly stood up, gestured for Li Fei to sit down, and then smiled at Henry, saying:
"President Henry, please calm down."

We understand your concerns, but we also have our sincerity and solutions.

We can propose some additional safeguards, such as increasing the compensation amount under the confidentiality clause, or accepting your company's supervision of our research and development process.

This will ensure the security of your company's technology while allowing us to smoothly advance the project.

Henry pondered for a moment, then said, "Mr. Zhang, your proposal, while showing some sincerity, is still not enough."

Our American government has recently tightened export controls on high-tech products, especially those involving chip technology that could potentially affect national security.

Even if our company agrees to sell to you, we won't get past the government's approval.

Zhang Yue's heart tightened, but he remained calm and said, "President Henry, we believe that technology knows no borders."

Moreover, our project will not pose any threat to the national security of the United States; on the contrary, it may promote the common development of global science and technology.

You could try communicating with the relevant government departments and explaining the positive significance of our project; perhaps they will change their attitude.

Henry shook his head and said, "This is not something I can decide."

The government's stance is clear: our company must comply with the relevant regulations.

Therefore, I regret to inform you that I cannot grant your request.

Just when Zhang Yue was feeling somewhat desperate, a technical expert from NA Company suddenly stood up and said:

"President Henry, I think we can reconsider."

Although the government has export controls, we can cooperate with them through some special means, provided that we comply with the regulations.

For example, we can establish a joint R&D center with them and place some of the chip production and R&D processes in China.

This way, we can both ensure our control over core technologies and meet their needs.

Henry frowned, looked at the technologist, and said, "John, do you know what you're saying?"
This could bring us a lot of trouble and risks.

John said firmly, "President Henry, I understand your concerns."

However, technology is advancing rapidly. If we remain stagnant and refuse to cooperate with the outside world, we may be eliminated by the times.

This super AI project is a rare opportunity. If we can participate, it will not only enhance our company's technological capabilities and brand awareness, but it may also bring us huge economic benefits.

Henry remained silent for a long time, then slowly said, "John, your idea makes some sense."

But this matter is of great importance, and I need to discuss it with the board of directors and other senior executives before making a decision.

A glimmer of hope ignited in Zhang Yue's heart, and he quickly said, "President Henry, thank you very much for reconsidering."

We eagerly await your reply and hope your company will seize this rare opportunity to work together with us to create a brilliant future.

Over the next few days, Zhang Yue and his team anxiously awaited NA's response.

They communicated with NA company staff every day to understand the progress, but the reply was always "still under discussion".

Finally, after waiting for nearly a week, Henry summoned Zhang Yue and his group again.

Henry said with a helpless expression, "Mr. Zhang, I regret to inform you that after discussion by the board of directors, we have ultimately decided to reject your request."

The pressure from the government is too great; we simply cannot violate the relevant regulations.

Zhang Yue's heart sank, but he did not give up and said, "President Henry, is there really no other way?"
Our project is crucial to global technological development; can't you think of another way?

Henry shook his head and said, "Mr. Zhang, I've done my best. I'm really sorry, but you'll have to find another way."

Zhang Yue took a deep breath, stood up, and said firmly, "President Henry, although this negotiation was unsuccessful, I will not give up."

I believe that technological advancements are unstoppable, and one day we will find a solution to the chip problem, allowing the Super AI project to proceed smoothly.

After saying that, Zhang Yue led his team members away from NA Company headquarters.

After returning to China, Zhang Yue did not succumb to frustration and despair, knowing that simply wallowing in despair would not solve the problem.

He immediately organized the market research staff and business analysts in his team to conduct a comprehensive and in-depth investigation of NA Company.

After several days of intensive work, a detailed report was placed on Zhang Yue's desk.

The report shows that NA is facing many serious challenges recently.

The company's cash flow is strained due to excessive investment in new technology research and development, and the failure of some projects to achieve expected returns.

Meanwhile, competitors continued to exert their strength in the market, seizing a significant portion of their market share, causing NA's market share to gradually shrink.

Moreover, there are some problems with the company's internal management, such as low decision-making efficiency and poor communication between departments, which further affect the company's operation and development.

Looking at the report, Zhang Yue had a new plan in mind.

He gathered the core team members again and said, "Everyone, after investigation, we have found that NA Company's current business situation is not ideal."

From a business perspective, we are actually their best partner.

If our super AI project succeeds, it will bring huge market and economic benefits.

As chip suppliers, they can also get a share of the profits, which helps alleviate their current predicament.

I have decided to travel to the United States again to negotiate with them.

After hearing this, the team members all expressed their support.

Soon, Zhang Yue, along with Li Fei and several core members, embarked on their journey to the United States once again.

Upon arriving at NA Company headquarters again, Zhang Yue and his team were once again guided by staff into a conference room to wait.

A short while later, Henry walked in with a group of people.

Henry was slightly taken aback when he saw Zhang Yue and his group, then revealed a disdainful smile and said:
"Mr. Zhang, why are you here again? I've already made it very clear that we will not sell chips to you."

Zhang Yue stood up with a smile and said, "President Henry, don't be in such a hurry to refuse."

I have come this time with sincerity and a new reason.

Our investigation into your company has revealed that you are currently facing some operational difficulties.

Henry's expression changed, his brows furrowed, and he said, "Mr. Zhang, what do you mean by this?"
It's none of your business to comment on our company's operations.

Zhang Yue calmly said, "President Henry, please calm down."

I have no ill intentions; I just want to analyze this with you from the perspective of business cooperation.

Your company is currently facing a tight cash flow and a shrinking market share, while our Super AI project has enormous commercial potential.

If we can reach a cooperation agreement, your company will not only obtain stable orders and considerable revenue, but also enhance its brand awareness and market competitiveness by leveraging the influence of our project.

This will be very helpful in alleviating your company's current difficulties.

Henry sneered and said, "Mr. Zhang, you certainly know how to scheme."

But don't forget, our American government has strict controls on chip exports; this isn't a problem that can be solved with commercial interests alone.

Zhang Yue nodded and said, "President Henry, I understand the government's control measures. But we can work together to find a solution, for example, we can clearly stipulate this in the cooperation agreement."

The chip will be used solely for the research and development and production of our Super AI project, and will be subject to full supervision by your company and relevant government departments.

At the same time, we can pay a portion of the payment in advance to help alleviate your company's financial pressure.

At this moment, a finance director from NA Company stood up and said, "President Henry, from a financial perspective, their proposal is indeed quite attractive."

Our company is currently experiencing cash flow difficulties. Receiving a portion of the payment in advance would greatly help alleviate our financial pressure.

Moreover, collaborating with them could potentially bring new business growth opportunities to the company.

Henry glared at the finance director and said, "What do you know?"
The government's stance is clear: we cannot violate regulations for the sake of a little commercial gain.

This poses a huge risk to the company; if investigated by the government, our company will face severe penalties.

Seeing this, Zhang Yue quickly said, "President Henry, we can actively communicate with the relevant government departments and explain to them the positive significance of our cooperation and the benefits to both parties."

I believe that as long as we communicate sincerely, the government will understand and support our cooperation.

Henry shook his head and said firmly, "Mr. Zhang, there's no need to say anything more."

Government regulations are inviolable, and we will not take risks for your project.

You should leave.

Zhang Yue was a little anxious, but he still refused to give up and said, "President Henry, this is really a win-win opportunity."

Your company is currently facing difficulties, but we have the ability to help you overcome these difficulties while also achieving our own project goals.

I hope you can reconsider.

Henry said impatiently, "There's nothing to consider, my decision is not changing."

"You all leave here immediately, or I'll call security."

Zhang Yue took a deep breath and looked into Henry's determined eyes, knowing that the negotiations had failed again.

But he remained polite and said, "President Henry, since you have made your decision, we respect your choice."

But I believe that one day in the future, you will realize that partnering with us was the right decision.

After saying that, Zhang Yue and his team members left NA Company headquarters again, feeling helpless.

Zhang Yue led his team members out of NA Company headquarters again. The sunlight outside was a bit dazzling, but it couldn't brighten their somewhat heavy mood.

Back at their temporary lodgings, before the team members could even put down their luggage, Zhang Yue clapped his hands and said:
"Everyone, don't rest yet, we can't stop what we're doing."

Although this negotiation failed again, we cannot give up.

Next, we will gather more evidence regarding NA's predicament and the feasibility of our self-developed chips, in preparation for a third round of negotiations.

Upon hearing this, the team members immediately took action.

Technical experts began to consult a large amount of information on chip development, analyzing the technical challenges and solutions that might be encountered in developing their own chips.

Market researchers continued to investigate NA's financial situation, market dynamics, and competitors, attempting to find more evidence to persuade NA to cooperate.

Business negotiators are also reviewing the details of previous negotiations and developing new negotiation strategies.

However, just as everyone had been busy for several days and was preparing to go to NA Company for negotiations again, Zhang Yue suddenly called an emergency meeting.

The atmosphere in the meeting room was somewhat heavy. Zhang Yue looked at everyone and slowly said:
"After thinking about this for the past few days, I've realized a strategic issue."

We had been pinning our hopes on negotiations with NA, but reality has repeatedly dampened our enthusiasm.

Judging from the current situation, even if we bring the most substantial evidence to negotiate, NA Company, constrained by government control and its own conservative attitude, will most likely still refuse us.

Therefore, negotiations have failed. If we want chips, we have no choice but to develop them ourselves.

The team members looked at each other in bewilderment after hearing this.

Li Fei was the first to stand up and said anxiously, "President Zhang, developing our own chips is too difficult!"

We had no prior experience or technical expertise, and the research and development cycle was long and the investment was huge, making the risks extremely high.

If we fail, all our previous efforts will be wasted, and the Super AI project will be in dire straits.

Technical expert Lao Chen chimed in, "Yes, Mr. Zhang."

Chip development involves many cutting-edge technologies, such as photolithography and chip architecture design, and every step is full of challenges.

Although our team has some technical strength, we still have a long way to go in the field of chip research and development compared with those professional chip companies.

Starting to develop our own system now is like groping in the dark; the chances of success are extremely slim.

Business negotiator Xiao Li frowned and said, "Mr. Zhang, developing our own chips is not only technically challenging, but also requires substantial financial support."

Our current project funds are mainly invested in the research and development of super AI.

If a large portion of the funds were allocated to chip development, it could very well lead to both projects progressing slowly or even failing due to insufficient funding.

Zhang Yue listened to everyone's advice but did not get angry. Instead, he patiently said:
"I understand everyone's concerns. Developing our own chips is indeed full of difficulties and challenges, but we have no other choice."

If we continue to rely on external suppliers, we will always be at their mercy.

The Super AI project is our life's work and our hope for the future. We cannot give up easily because of chip issues.

I believe that as long as we unite as one, work hard to overcome technical difficulties, and rationally plan the use of funds, we will definitely be able to successfully develop our own chips.

Seeing Zhang Yue's determined gaze, the team members, though still somewhat hesitant, were gradually inspired by his resolve.

Zhang Yue continued, "From now on, we will establish a dedicated chip research and development team."

Old Chen, as the head of the R&D team, you led the technical experts to focus their efforts on overcoming the technical challenges of chip development.

Xiao Li, you are responsible for coordinating funding and resources to ensure the R&D team has sufficient support.

Li Fei, you and the other members will continue to advance the research and development of the Super AI project, while maintaining close communication with the R&D team to ensure that chip development and Super AI development can complement each other.

Old Chen took a deep breath, stood up, and said firmly, "Mr. Zhang, since you are so confident, let's give it our all!"
I am willing to lead the R&D team to go all out and overcome the difficulties in chip development.

Li Fei and Xiao Li nodded in agreement, expressing their full support for the self-developed chip project.

Thus, under Zhang Yue's persistence and leadership, a dedicated chip research and development team was established.

After the chip R&D team was established, Lao Chen immediately led everyone to plunge into the laboratory.

They started with the most basic theoretical research, working day and night, consulting a vast amount of domestic and foreign literature, and conducting in-depth analysis of every technical detail of the chip.

At the same time, they actively contacted top domestic research institutions and universities to seek technical cooperation and support, hoping to accelerate the research and development process with the help of external forces.

While advancing the development of the super AI project, Li Fei also kept a close eye on the progress of the chip R&D team.

He knew that chips were the core of super AI, and that if there were any problems with chip development, the entire project would be affected.

Therefore, he regularly organizes exchange meetings between the two teams to ensure that the needs of the super AI project can be promptly fed back to the chip R&D team so that they can adjust their R&D direction.

Xiao Li, on the other hand, was busy raising funds from all sides.

He first communicated with the company's finance department to re-plan and allocate project funds, ensuring that there were sufficient funds to support the early stages of chip research and development.

Next, he actively contacted major investment institutions and venture capitalists, introducing them to the huge potential of the super AI project and the self-developed chip, hoping to attract their investment.

However, the process did not go smoothly.

Many investors are concerned about the risks of developing their own chips and are taking a cautious approach to investing in the project.

Despite facing setbacks everywhere, Xiao Li did not lose heart and continued to relentlessly search for every possible investment opportunity.

During the chip development process, the team encountered one problem after another.

The precision of photolithography technology is insufficient, which prevents breakthroughs in chip manufacturing processes.

The chip architecture design has flaws, which affect the chip's performance and stability.

Faced with these challenges, Lao Chen led his team members to conduct repeated research and continuous experimentation.

They consulted with many experts both at home and abroad, drew on advanced technologies from other fields, and after countless experiments and improvements, they finally gradually overcame these technical challenges.

However, just as chip development was making some progress, the funding problem became increasingly serious.

The research and development cycle took longer than expected, and the financial expenditure far exceeded the budget.

Although Xiao Li has tried his best to raise funds, he is still unable to meet the ongoing needs of the R&D team.

At this time, other projects of the company were also affected by the tight funds, and some employees began to feel wavering and complain.

Zhang Yue noticed these changes within the team and knew that it was crucial to stabilize morale at this time.

So he convened a general meeting of all employees.

At the meeting, Zhang Yue said with a firm expression: "Dear colleagues, I know that you have all been working very hard recently and are facing many difficulties and pressures."

But we must not forget our original aspiration and mission. The Super AI project is the hope for our company's future, and self-developed chips are the key to our overcoming difficulties and achieving breakthroughs.

Although we are currently facing financial and technical difficulties, I believe that as long as we unite as one and persevere, we will definitely be able to overcome these difficulties.

I have already discussed this with the board of directors, and we will do everything we can to ensure the project's funding needs, while also providing everyone with better working conditions and benefits.

I hope everyone will remain steadfast in their beliefs and continue to strive towards our goals.

Zhang Yue's words greatly encouraged the team members.

Everyone rallied and threw themselves into their work with renewed enthusiasm.

Old Chen led the chip R&D team to continue tackling technical difficulties, Li Fei accelerated the R&D progress of the super AI project, and Xiao Li continued to travel around raising funds.

After several months of hard work, a major breakthrough has finally been achieved in chip research and development.

The team successfully manufactured a prototype of a super chip capable of supporting 6G algorithms and conducted preliminary tests.

Test results show that the chip's performance and stability met expectations.

The news sent the entire team into a frenzy; everyone cheered, jumped for joy, and hugged each other in celebration. (End of Chapter)