In Hong Kong, we build a global business empire

Guo Xiaohan was born in Southeast Asia, and Malaysia is a Commonwealth country. Therefore, she naturally developed a sense of awe and longing for the British royal family from a young age.

Upon hearing this suggestion, she felt as if the whole world had become unreal, as if she were in the most beautiful dream.

Lin Haoran, on the other hand, having been a Chinese citizen in his previous life, didn't have such a strong bias against the British royal family and naturally wasn't fond of the British Queen.

He became more aware that behind this so-called "honor" lay naked political calculations and exchanges of interests.

The other party was just trying to use him; everything was for Britain's benefit.

However, he could only pretend to be very honored.

Hong Kong is still under the nominal jurisdiction of the royal family. If he openly expresses his disdain and resistance to this "honor," it will undoubtedly bring endless trouble to himself and those around him.

On the surface, Hong Kong practices economic freedom and freedom of speech.

Beneath this seemingly prosperous and free facade, undercurrents were surging, and the influence of the British government was like an invisible yet resilient net, permeating every corner of Hong Kong society.

Those forces lurking in the shadows are watching everyone who might threaten their interests. If they make the slightest move, they will pounce like hungry wolves and tear them to shreds.

Lin Haoran took a deep breath and said solemnly, "If such a possibility really exists, it would be an unparalleled honor for me and Xiaohan, and even for our entire family. But wouldn't this cause too much trouble for the Governor and Her Majesty the Queen?"

“Not at all troublesome.” Merrihout smiled broadly. “This is precisely a good opportunity for the royal family to strengthen ties with outstanding individuals in the community. Here’s what we’ll do: the wedding date is February 16th, which is indeed a bit tight.”

I will personally contact London tonight to convey your wishes and the importance of this wedding. I will inform you immediately once I have initial feedback.

"Then we'll leave it all to the Governor!" Lin Haoran raised his glass. "Whatever the outcome, Xiaohan and I will be extremely grateful!"

"To the happy marriage of Mr. Lin and Ms. Guo, and to a more prosperous future for Hong Kong, cheers!" Mr. and Mrs. Mak raised their glasses simultaneously.

The dinner ended in an almost dreamlike atmosphere.

When Lin Haoran and Guo Xiaohan left the governor's mansion, Guo Xiaohan felt her steps were a little unsteady.

Once inside the car, Guo Xiaohan could no longer contain her excitement and tightly hugged Lin Haoran's arm: "Haoran! Did you hear that? Your Majesty the Queen! Our wedding might have Her Majesty's blessing!"
This is like a dream! My uncle would be so happy if he knew!

Lin Haoran gently patted her hand, and seeing her exaggerated expression, he said with a smile, "This shows that the two of us are truly a match made in heaven. However, Xiaohan, it's not certain whether this will work out or not. Let's not tell anyone yet, and especially tell our family to keep it a secret for the time being."

"I know, I know!" Guo Xiaohan nodded quickly, but her excitement was not diminished at all. "Even if Her Majesty the Queen cannot come in the end, the Governor's personal help in making the arrangements is already a precious gift! Haoran, I, I am so happy!"

Seeing his fiancée's happy expression, Lin Haoran smiled. As long as she's happy, that's all that matters.

Even so, he was also keenly aware that behind this "honor" lay more complex political calculations and exchanges of interests.

At this moment, he felt a mix of emotions.

Unbeknownst to him, he had grown to the point where even the British government had to make such a grand effort to win him over.

From a young businessman who had to be cautious and take things one step at a time a few years ago to a Hong Kong tycoon who can now sit at a dinner party at the Governor's Palace and is promised that he may invite a member of the British royal family to officiate his wedding, the leap he made is so incredible that even he finds it hard to believe.

But all of this did not come out of thin air.

It was through his visionary foresight, his ability to seize opportunities precisely, and his bold investments that he accumulated the substantial capital he enjoys today.

It was his decisive action at a critical moment, using a massive HK$183 billion to stabilize the market, that earned him the respect and reliance of all parties, including the Governor's Office.

It is through his skillful maneuvering among various forces and his consistent pragmatic approach of "focusing on business and staying rooted in Hong Kong" that he has avoided many potential pitfalls and reached his current position.

A dozen minutes later, the car returned safely to the Shi Xun Road villa.

Lin Haoran had just returned home and was about to sit down on the sofa to rest when his mobile phone rang.

He could tell from the number that it was an overseas call.

After telling Guo Xiaohan, Lin Haoran took his mobile phone into the study, closed the door, and then pressed the answer button.

“Mr. Lin, I’m sorry, I hope I didn’t disturb your rest?” John Reed, vice president of Citibank, spoke from the other end of the phone.

"Of course not, Mr. John, is there anything I can help you with?" Lin Haoran leaned back in his leather chair in the study and replied with a smile.

He knew that this call from the powerful figure at Citibank at this time was no ordinary greeting.

At this moment, it is evening on the 2nd in Hong Kong, but it is morning on the 2nd in New York due to the time difference.

The other party called so early in the morning, it must be something important.

John Reed's voice came through the receiver, tinged with barely concealed excitement, yet maintaining proper courtesy: "I have some good news to share with you."

Lin Haoran raised an eyebrow slightly, leaned back in his chair, and said calmly, "Oh? Mr. John, please go ahead."

"Just yesterday, the Citigroup Board of Directors authorized me to issue a formal statement on behalf of the Group to major media outlets across the United States and around the world, all of which reported on the matter in their latest newspapers today."

The statement strongly condemns Forbes magazine's recent report on you as seriously inaccurate and a violation of journalistic ethics and the basic principles of fact-checking.

We are announcing the immediate termination of all business partnerships and advertising with Forbes magazine and its parent company, and urge our business partners to reassess the credibility of their reporting.

He paused, seemingly giving Lin Haoran time to process the information.

Then he continued, "Not only that, we also partnered with two top auditing firms, PricewaterhouseCoopers and Deloitte, to produce a brief fact-checking report based on publicly available data, including the Hong Kong government's published details of the Renaissance Fund's contributions, the public financial reports of relevant listed companies, and your public investment records in companies such as Apple and Toyota."

The report's core conclusion is that the Forbes article contains numerous key factual errors and unfounded speculations, and its core accusations that your assets are "severely inflated" and "on the verge of insolvency" are completely unfounded.

Furthermore, Mr. Lin, please rest assured that the data we have released is all data that you have publicly disclosed. As for the many undisclosed investments made by Citibank in cooperation with Mr. Lin, we have not disclosed them at all!

Lin Haoran listened, and was indeed a little surprised.

He knew Citibank would support him, but he didn't expect their actions to be so swift and forceful.

This is no longer a simple "support," but a full-scale counterattack and credit endorsement launched by leveraging Citibank's century-old reputation.

Forbes has targeted him time and again.
“Mr. John, this…” Lin Haoran expressed a hint of being flattered at the right time, “Citibank has gone to such lengths for me, I really don’t know how to thank them enough.”

And I suppose it was you, Mr. John, who persuaded the Citibank board?

He was somewhat surprised that Li Guowei hadn't told him such an important matter.

Since it happened on the afternoon of the 1st New York time, the other party should have reported it to him this morning Hong Kong time.

But he received absolutely no message.

This news was indeed quite sudden.

John Reed laughed and said, “Mr. Lin, you’re too kind. Don’t forget, we are the best allies. This is what I should do. Besides, your extraordinary ability and integrity are the most convincing reasons in themselves.”

So it wasn't difficult for me to convince the board, to convince Mr. Walter Riston. After I briefly described your relationship with Citibank, they unanimously approved it, and the entire Citibank supported you.

Oh, and there's something else I need to tell you. I specifically asked Mr. Li not to tell you yet, as I wanted to give you a surprise. I hope you won't blame Mr. Li.

Upon hearing this, Lin Haoran suddenly realized, "No wonder!"
He couldn't possibly blame Li Guowei for this.

After all, knowing about this sooner or later makes no difference.

"I see." Lin Haoran smiled, his tone sincere. "Mr. John, you're too kind. This is indeed a great surprise. It's only natural that Mr. Li would follow your arrangements. How could I blame him?"

However, I feel a little guilty that Citibank went to such lengths for me, even going so far as to publicly oppose a media giant like Forbes.

“Mr. Lin, please don’t say that.” John Reed’s voice carried a hint of pride. “We are not just allies, but partners based on shared values ​​and a vision for the future.”

Forbes' actions have crossed the line and violated the bottom line of business integrity. As one of the world's leading financial institutions, Citigroup has a responsibility to stand up and defend the rules and clarify the facts.

This is not only for your benefit, but also to maintain a healthy and transparent business environment. Moreover, judging from the results, this move was very well made.

This not only successfully cleared your name and greatly enhanced your international reputation and the credibility of Oriental Media, but also demonstrated to the world Citibank's firm support for its core partners.

Now, it's unlikely anyone will dare to easily question your capabilities and Citibank's judgment; this is a win-win situation.

Lin Haoran had to admit that John Reed made a lot of sense.

Citibank's swift and decisive action achieved multiple effects: it relieved him from his predicament, demonstrated its own strength and principles, and further solidified the alliance between the two sides.

Lin Haoran solemnly replied, "In any case, I will remember this kindness. Please convey to Chairman Walter Riston and all the directors that I am not an ungrateful person."

"If Citibank ever needs Mr. Lin's assistance in the future, he will certainly do his utmost."

“I will certainly convey Mr. Lin’s words,” John Reed said with satisfaction. “I believe Chairman Walter and the board members will be very pleased to hear you say this.”

We look forward to creating a brighter future together. Also, I recall that Mr. Lin's wedding is approaching. Regarding your wedding preparations, if there are any international needs, please feel free to contact us. Citibank's network is Mr. Lin's network.

Upon hearing this, Lin Haoran couldn't help but feel a bit amused and exasperated. Not long ago, at the Governor's Mansion, Governor Mai Lihao had brought up his wedding plans.

Unexpectedly, John Reed also brought it up on his own initiative.

It seems that my upcoming wedding is no longer just a personal celebration, but has become a "stage" where various forces hope to participate and exert influence.

He replied with a smile, "Mr. John is very well-informed. The wedding is indeed scheduled for February 16th. Thank you for your concern. Preparations are going smoothly so far. If there is any need for international coordination, I will certainly not hesitate to ask Citibank for help."

“That would be wonderful,” John Reed said with a smile. “Then I won’t disturb Mr. Lin’s rest any longer. Congratulations again on your upcoming wedding, and I look forward to your reputation in the United States rising even higher through this event.”

"Thank you, Mr. John."

Good night, Mr. Lin.

After hanging up the phone, Lin Haoran gently placed the mobile phone on the desk, leaned back in his large leather chair, and let out a long breath.

The information coming in tonight came in waves, requiring him to digest it carefully.

First, Governor Merrih extended an olive branch on behalf of the British Royal Family, inviting the Queen or a member of the Royal Family to officiate at the wedding. This was politically significant and a clear signal that the British were trying to bring him more deeply into their sphere of influence.

This was followed by a report from John Reid on behalf of Citibank, announcing that a full-scale counterattack against Forbes had begun and was proving highly effective.

This demonstrates Citigroup's formidable power as a financial giant and its unwavering support for its ally, while also serving as a "power show" and an "emotional investment."

Two things: one concerns the future political spectrum and social positioning, and the other concerns current business reputation and international image.

Once everything is handled properly, it will be a huge boost to his career.

However, if not handled properly, it may also bring unexpected entanglements and risks.

"It's true what they say, 'The tree may wish to be still, but the wind will not cease,'" Lin Haoran muttered to himself, a composed smile playing on his lips.

He does not resist this state of being "needed" or "courted".

This precisely proves that his value has reached a level that is enough to make all parties take him seriously and even be wary of him.

The key is to maintain a balance and initiative between the olive branches and ropes offered by all parties, ensuring that one is always the one who benefits the most and is not easily bound to them.

His strategy regarding the honors bestowed upon him by the British Royal Family was to gladly accept the prestige and convenience they brought, but never to let them obscure his fundamental stance.

He is a Hong Kong businessman, and Hong Kong will eventually return to the motherland, so his future lies in Hong Kong and the mainland, unless he is willing to move his base away from Hong Kong, but Lin Haoran has no such idea at all.

The royal aura can be used, but it cannot become a constraint.

Communication and relations with the north must be strengthened simultaneously.

Before Hong Kong returned to the motherland, it was necessary for him to play both sides and maintain good relations.

His strategy regarding Citibank's strong support was to fully appreciate it and reciprocate with equal respect and priority in future cooperation, but also to remain clear-headed, as Citibank's support was primarily based on mutual benefit.

The two sides are close partners, but not an entity.

He needs to continue to strengthen his own capabilities to ensure that he maintains sufficient weight and influence in any cooperation.

Having cleared his mind, Lin Haoran felt the turmoil in his heart gradually subside, replaced by a sense of certainty that he was in control of the situation.

After thinking for a moment, Lin Haoran picked up his mobile phone again and quickly dialed a number.

"Boss, what can I do for you?" Cui Zilong's voice came quickly from the other end of the phone.

After releasing the Singapore Rich List in Singapore, Cui Zilong took a private jet back to Hong Kong on the evening of the 1st.

Therefore, Cui Zilong is already in Hong Kong at this moment.

"Could you help me investigate what's going on about me in the US? Citibank just sent word that they've taken action against Forbes, and it seems Forbes is in trouble now. I want to know more," Lin Haoran said directly.

Oriental Media's intelligence network primarily covers Hong Kong, Southeast Asia, and other regions.

He has to actively seek out intelligence from the United States to find out.

Therefore, Cui Zilong was naturally unaware of what had just happened in the United States.

“Yes, boss, please wait a moment. I will immediately check with the relevant intelligence channels in the United States to find out about this matter. I will report the details to you in an hour at most, and at least half an hour.” Cui Zilong replied immediately, his voice conveying a sense of efficiency and decisiveness.

As the head of Oriental Media Group, he naturally knew the importance his boss placed on controlling information, especially regarding international public opinion and the dynamics of competitors.

"Okay, I'll wait for your message." Lin Haoran hung up the phone, but instead of leaving the study, he walked to the bookshelf, picked up a book about the history of international finance, and began to read it, both to calm his mind and to wait.

During this time, Guo Xiaohan brought in a cup of hot milk. Seeing that Lin Haoran was busy with work, she did not disturb him, but quietly closed the study door.

Time passes in silence.

About forty minutes later, the mobile phone on the desk rang again.

"Boss, we've basically got the situation figured out." Cui Zilong's voice came through, tinged with barely concealed excitement and admiration. "Citibank's move this time was nothing short of thunderous!"

He quickly and clearly reported: "According to the channels and partners we have contacted, as well as feedback from some information sources on Wall Street, the situation is as follows: On the afternoon of January 1, New York time, after an emergency meeting, the Citibank board of directors authorized Vice President John Reid to handle this matter in full."

Immediately afterwards, Citigroup issued a strongly worded formal statement to dozens of mainstream media outlets across the United States, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post. "I will send you the detailed article via fax after I hang up the phone."

Lin Haoran said, "Yes, continue."

Cui Zilong paused for a moment, allowing Lin Haoran to process the information, before continuing, "The effect was immediate. On the morning of January 2nd, US time, almost all mainstream media's financial sections reported Citigroup's statement and summary of facts in their headlines or prominent positions."

The Forbes headquarters were besieged by a large number of reporters this morning, and it is said that Malcolm Forbes himself was forced to rush into the company through the back door.

More importantly, the market reaction was significant; Forbes' parent company's stock price plummeted by more than 40% in pre-market trading!

Several advertisers and institutional investors who had previously expressed interest in working with Forbes have announced the suspension or reassessment of their partnerships, resulting in a complete reversal of public opinion overnight!

His voice was filled with emotion: "Boss, Citibank not only helped us clarify things this time, but it actually used its century-old reputation to launch a devastating credibility attack on Forbes."

In mainstream American financial circles and public discourse, the voices of doubt have quickly shifted to widespread questioning of Forbes' professionalism and ethics.

The credibility of our Oriental Media Group has thus received an unexpected and powerful endorsement.

Lin Haoran listened quietly, his fingers tapping lightly on the table.

Cui Zilong's report confirmed and supplemented the information John Reed had given him on the phone, giving him a clearer understanding of the seriousness of the situation and the strength of Citibank's intervention.

"It seems that Citibank is determined to solve the Forbes problem once and for all," Lin Haoran said slowly. "It's not just for me, but probably also to make an example of them and show the outside world its determination and ability to protect its core allies."

“The boss’s analysis is correct,” Cui Zilong agreed. “According to our sources, there is a very high level of support for this operation within Citibank.”

Chairman Walter Riston personally approved the decision, and the board unanimously passed it. This went beyond a typical business dispute and resembled a strategic declaration. Furthermore…

He hesitated for a moment, then said, "We also learned that Citibank seems to have used some of its connections in the political and regulatory spheres."

There are informal reports that the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission may informally investigate whether Forbes' parent company has published misleading information that influenced investor judgment.

Although it's just a rumor, it's enough to make Forbes' situation even worse.

A knowing glint flashed in Lin Haoran's eyes. This was the real "combination punch."

Public statements damage reputation, fact-checking destroys the foundation of the argument, market reactions exert economic pressure, and warnings of potential regulatory risks—Citigroup, as a veteran financial giant, is indeed shrewd and comprehensive in its methods.

Although he was never afraid of Forbes, Citibank's intervention in resolving this problem did save him a lot of trouble and spared him a lot of unnecessary energy and resources.

He really needed to remember this favor.

Most importantly, Citibank's move brought Lin Haoran an unexpected benefit.

That is, Citibank's public announcement this time truly binds him to its side. In the future, in the United States, anyone who dares to offend him will have to consider whether they can withstand Citibank's wrath.

This "deterrence" is intangible, yet far more valuable than any concrete economic support.

This means that he will have a strong and steadfast backing when expanding his business, making investments, and handling various relationships in the United States in the future.

Those forces and individuals who might have initially looked down on him or even tried to sabotage him because of his Chinese identity or status as a newly rich man now have to reassess their positions and be more cautious when dealing with him.

After all, offending Lin Haoran might not only mean offending a wealthy Eastern businessman, but also potentially offending Citibank, a behemoth deeply entrenched in the American financial and political circles.

The potential risks and costs associated with this are enough to deter most people from taking the plunge.

The benefits are simply too numerous to list! (End of Chapter)