In Hong Kong, we build a global business empire

After Guo Henian finished speaking, Lin Haoran did not answer immediately, but began to think.

In his previous life, he also had some understanding of this bigwig from Southeast Asia.

The other party is doing very well in Hong Kong.

Relying on Hong Kong as a golden springboard, he not only consolidated his position as the richest man in Southeast Asia, but also successfully expanded his family business to the world, becoming a world-class Chinese business tycoon.

It can be said that Guo He's decision to shift his strategic focus to Hong Kong before his death was the most crucial and successful move in his business career.

Today, although history has undergone subtle changes due to Lin Haoran's involvement—such as the widening wealth gap between the Guo family and the Qiu Deba family, and the marriage alliance between the Guo family and Lin Haoran—the overall trend has not changed.

Guo Henan keenly perceived the unique value and opportunities of Hong Kong, and Lin Haoran's presence undoubtedly added great certainty and accelerated this opportunity.

Even though Hong Kong had almost fallen into a real estate crisis, it did not cause Guo Henan to lose confidence in Hong Kong's future.

“Uncle Guo,” Lin Haoran put down his teacup and said frankly, “First of all, I am very grateful for your trust in me and for consulting me on such an important decision.”

Regarding your question, my view may be somewhat direct, but it is based on my observations and reflections on Hong Kong and the trends of the times.

"Please speak, I'm all ears." Guo Henian sat up straighter, his expression focused.

“I believe that the Guo family’s move to Hong Kong at this time is not a ‘gamble’ but a ‘wise move’ to follow the trend of the times and seize historical opportunities. In fact, it can be said that it is inevitable,” Lin Haoran said directly.

"Oh? It's inevitable?" Guo Henian's eyes gleamed even brighter.

“Yes.” Lin Haoran began to analyze the situation step by step. “Let’s look at it from several perspectives.”

"First, it is an inevitable trend. The national policy of reform and opening up in mainland China has been set, and economic vitality is being released."

As the most important super-connector between the mainland and the world, Hong Kong's role as a bridge and window will only be strengthened, not weakened, in the coming decades.

Hong Kong is the preferred platform and springboard for all international capital to enter the mainland and for all mainland enterprises to go global.

This historically significant geographical advantage is unmatched by any other place in Southeast Asia.

Establishing a foothold in Hong Kong early means securing a key position in future capital and trade flows across the Asia-Pacific region and even globally.

Guo Henian nodded; this idea coincided with his own.

He didn't interrupt, but instead made it seem like he was continuing to listen.

"Second, institutional advantages: Hong Kong's rule of law, free market, low tax system, and financial and professional services system that are fully aligned with international standards are the foundation of its core competitiveness."

These soft powers, accumulated over a century, are a true 'moat'. Doing business here is characterized by transparent rules, extremely high efficiency, and an attraction for capital and talent that is unmatched by most other parts of Southeast Asia and even Asia.

For the Guo family to achieve the leap from a "prominent family in Southeast Asia" to "world-class Chinese businessmen," the platform and tools provided by Hong Kong are indispensable.

“Third, the competitive environment and its own evolution.” Lin Haoran looked at Guo Henian. “Uncle Guo said that the competition in Southeast Asia is fierce and there is a ceiling, which is indeed the case.”

But in Hong Kong, competition takes another dimension—it's more international, more professional, and more brutal.

But this kind of competition can force companies to continuously evolve and improve their management level, strategic vision and innovation capabilities.

If the Guo family wants its business to last, it must undergo this higher level of refinement; a comfortable 'comfort zone' is often the beginning of decline.

"Finally, and most importantly," Lin Haoran said sincerely, "we are here. The Guo and Lin families are now related by marriage, sharing interests and honors."

Hong Kong's local business community has always been relatively resistant to Southeast Asian capital, a point that I think Uncle Guo should be well aware of.

However, with me here, you are not fighting alone in Hong Kong. My career is based here, and my network of contacts is being built rapidly. My judgments and plans for the future may also provide you with some reference.

By joining forces, sharing resources, complementing each other's strengths, and facing challenges and seizing opportunities together, we can undoubtedly greatly increase the probability of the Guo family's successful "relocation of its headquarters" and shorten the time required for adaptation and rise.

"I have another concern, which is the future ownership of Hong Kong. If the ownership of Hong Kong is transferred, then the policy may change."

"This is the biggest risk for us investing in Hong Kong." Guo Henian finally took over the conversation, his brows furrowed slightly, and spoke of his deepest concern: "Hong Kong's prosperity is inseparable from its unique free port status and capitalist system."

Once ownership changes and policies shift, all our strategic plans could face fundamental challenges, or even result in total loss.

This issue is the biggest sword hanging over the hearts of all overseas Chinese businessmen who have long-term investments in Hong Kong.

Guo Henan's ability to ask such questions so frankly demonstrates both trust and honesty.

He wanted to know what Lin Haoran's deeper judgment and solutions were regarding this issue.

Lin Haoran was prepared for this.

He witnessed the entire process of returning in his previous life and knew the twists and turns and the final outcome.

At this moment, he needs to convey the future historical trends to Guo Henian with logic and confidence that aligns with current understanding.

After all, the Guo family had become an important ally of his, so he didn't mind giving them an answer.

“Uncle Guo, you’ve hit the nail on the head.” Lin Haoran said solemnly, but not flustered. “Regarding the future ownership of Hong Kong, I think we need to look at it from several aspects.”

"First of all, the return of Hong Kong to the motherland is an inevitable trend and a historical inevitability. This can be seen more and more clearly from the contacts between China and Britain and the direction of public opinion in recent years."

Britain's national power was waning, and its influence in the Far East was no longer what it once was, while the mainland was rising. Given this ebb and flow, the return of Hong Kong was only a matter of time.

Guo Henian nodded slightly, agreeing with this sentiment.

This is also the biggest concern for all businessmen and conglomerates investing in Hong Kong.

Starting in the 1970s, many British and even Chinese-owned companies began to move their capital out of Hong Kong and into Europe, America, or Southeast Asia.

The reason, as Guo Henan said, is that they are worried that once Hong Kong returns to the motherland, the original policies will change drastically, causing them heavy losses or even total ruin.

Lin Haoran was naturally aware of their concerns.

He smiled and continued, "Secondly, there's the method and principle of Hong Kong's return. Although the two sides are still negotiating, judging from the signals released by the North, 'one country, two systems' is likely to become the basic policy."

He paused, then emphasized, "A prosperous and stable Hong Kong is far more valuable than a turbulent and declining Hong Kong."

The success of Hong Kong is the best proof of "one country, two systems" and has great political and symbolic significance.

So, Uncle Guo, you can rest assured to move the Guo family headquarters to Hong Kong, but the premise is that the Guo family's basic base in Southeast Asia cannot be lost, that is your root!

Hong Kong can become the bridgehead and command center for the Guo family's future offensive, but the industries, connections, and influence in Southeast Asia are your fallback and strategic depth.

We must grasp both aspects firmly.

A thoughtful glint flashed in Guo Henian's eyes.

Lin Haoran's unique analytical perspective, linking Hong Kong's prosperity to the political interests of the North, gave him a sudden insight.

Lin Haoran's words were insightful and provided a comprehensive analysis of the overall situation.

It is also down-to-earth, highlighting the advantages of cooperation;

We must both face the risks squarely and see the opportunities behind them.

It is both reasonable and persuasive, and is extremely convincing.

Guo Henian remained silent for a long time, holding the teacup in his hand for a long time without putting it down, his eyes filled with turbulent thoughts.

Lin Haoran's analysis almost completely confirmed his deepest intuition and judgment, and was even more thorough, far-sighted, and hopeful than he had thought.

In particular, the last point about the two sides joining forces, sharing risks and opportunities completely dispelled his last remaining concerns about "going all in".

"Good! Well said! Haoran, your words have truly cleared away the clouds and brought me to a sudden understanding!"

Guo Henian finally let out a long breath, a determined and excited look on his face, and slammed his hand heavily on the table.

"Throughout my life, Guo Henian has never been ambiguous in making decisions at crucial moments! This time is no exception! We must move! We must move! And we must follow your suggestion and place the family office, investment headquarters, and the brain and heart of our future core businesses in Hong Kong!"
We must safeguard our foundation in Southeast Asia, but the future development of the next century will depend on forging a path in Hong Kong!

He stood up, paced excitedly around the study, then turned and extended his hand to Lin Haoran: "Haoran, from now on in Hong Kong, the Guo and Lin families will be the strongest allies! We'll advance and retreat together, creating a brilliant future!"

Guo Henian had no intention of surpassing the Lin family.

After all, he knew that Lin Haoran's assets were almost unparalleled.

The previously disclosed HK$678 billion, even without any hidden wealth, is still beyond the reach of the Guo family.

Since that's the case, we might as well stick close to the Lin family.

Just like in the past two years, by forming an alliance with Lin Haoran and helping each other, the Guo family's wealth has increased dramatically, thus solidifying their position as the richest family in Southeast Asia.

Lin Haoran also stood up and solemnly grasped Guo Henian's hand: "Uncle Guo, it's a deal! Welcome the Guo family to settle in Hong Kong. In the future, we will definitely create our own miracle in this land of great influence!" The two hands clasped together symbolized the formal establishment of a deeper strategic alliance between the Guo and Lin families.

At the same time, it also marks the official change of course for the Guo family's giant ship in the South Seas, sailing towards the broader and more challenging deep blue sea area of ​​Hong Kong.

After having a clear plan for the future direction of the Guo family, Guo Henian finally showed his curiosity.

He asked with a smile, "Haoran, you must have come here for something else besides catching up with old friends, right?"

"As expected, I knew I couldn't hide it from Uncle Guo." Lin Haoran withdrew his hand, smiled, and sat down again, his tone relaxed. "There is indeed another important matter that I need to discuss with you, Uncle Guo, and with the help of the Guo family."

"Oh? For Haoran to make you come all this way in person, and to say it's something important, then I really need to hear it carefully." Guo Henian also sat back down, looking both curious and serious.

Lin Haoran didn't keep them in suspense and went straight to the point: "It's about my wedding with Xiaohan. Her Majesty the Queen has confirmed that she will be attending. This matter is still a secret, so Uncle Guo must keep it a secret for me."

I think the scale and significance of this wedding can no longer be treated as merely a private celebration.

Guo Henian couldn't sit still any longer and stood up abruptly from the sofa, exclaiming in shock, "The Queen of England is attending the wedding in person?"

For him, this news was absolutely explosive.

That's the Queen of England!
To date, in addition to the United Kingdom, 16 other countries around the world recognize the British monarch as their head of state.

Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Bahamas, Barbados, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu...

In these countries, the British monarch is nominally their sovereign.

This demonstrates just how immense the Queen's influence is!
Especially within Commonwealth countries and among European aristocrats and established capitalist circles closely associated with Britain, the Queen's every move represents an irreplaceable authority and symbolic significance.

Her presence at a private wedding is itself a very strong, almost politically charged, signal!

Guo Henian instantly understood the unparalleled value behind this matter.

This is not just an honor, but a universal key to unlocking the world's top social circles!
He took a deep breath, suppressing the shock in his heart, and looked at Lin Haoran with disbelief and a deeper level of admiration.

Guo Henian naturally knew that the Queen's presence had nothing to do with the Guo family.

Then there's only one possibility: the Queen came in person because of Lin Haoran.

"With the Queen present, this wedding is no longer just a wedding, but a 'coronation,' a ceremony to proclaim your status to the world!"

He had realized that with the Queen, the "jewel in the crown," in charge, the guests attracted would be of a level and influence that would completely surpass ordinary business events, touching on the more fundamental areas of power, tradition, and culture.

Thinking of this, Guo Henian's eyes lit up, and he instantly understood Lin Haoran's intention: "You want to make this wedding a grand event that will shake Hong Kong and even cause a sensation around the world?"

“It’s not just a grand event,” Lin Haoran corrected, “it’s also a super platform to showcase our power, expand our network, and establish rules to the world. As the Queen of England, she can attract countless top figures that we can hardly reach on ordinary days.”

My idea is to take this opportunity to invite prominent figures from the global political and business world, as well as cultural elites, to transform the days surrounding the wedding into a multi-dimensional, high-value international exchange event.

“What I need the Guo family to do,” Lin Haoran concluded, “is to leverage their strong influence in Southeast Asia and the entire Asia-Pacific region to help invite key guests, not only Chinese business families, but also influential local families and even political figures with whom they have good relationships.”

At the same time, the Guo family's strong support is also needed in areas such as cultural exchange during the wedding and reception of female guests.

Guo Henian was deeply moved as he listened.

He originally thought Lin Haoran just wanted to hold a wedding of the century, but he never expected that the strategic intentions behind it were so grand and far-reaching!
This is no longer just a wedding; it's a meticulously planned global resource integration and networking event!
Guo Henian said excitedly, "Good! Excellent! This is worthy of the Queen's presence, and worthy of your status and stature, Lin Haoran. Haoran, rest assured, the Guo family will do everything in its power to handle this matter!"

"I will personally send out invitations to the major Chinese business families in Southeast Asia, local families with whom I have good relationships, and even government leaders from various Southeast Asian countries, to ensure that they all attend and give you a grand occasion!"

"You can mobilize as many people and resources as you need. This is the first major global undertaking since the marriage of the Guo and Lin families; it must be done spectacularly, showcasing our power to the world!"

With Guo Henian's unwavering support and promise, Lin Haoran finally felt relieved about the wedding preparations.

The two then had an in-depth discussion on details such as the selection of the guest list, the specific arrangements for the event, and how to take the opportunity to convey the strategic shift of the Guo family, which lasted until late at night.

When Lin Haoran and Guo Xiaohan left the Guo family, the relationship between the two families was clearly closer, and their plans for future cooperation were clearer.

The two chatted in the study for nearly an hour before ending their conversation.

Guo Henian personally saw Lin Haoran and Guo Xiaohan into the car, watched it start and drive away, and then returned to the villa.

In the car, Guo Xiaohan asked curiously, "Brother Haoran, you and Uncle talked for so long, what else did you talk about besides the wedding?"

Lin Haoran put his arm around her shoulder and smiled, "We talked about future investment directions, technology, the wider world, and the future of your Guo family."

Although Guo Xiaohan didn't understand specific business investments, she could sense the ambition in Lin Haoran's words and felt her heart was filled with boundless hope and trust for the future.

She said shyly, "Brother Haoran, there's an old Chinese saying, 'A woman follows her husband wherever he goes.' Now that I'm married into the Lin family, I'll naturally be a member of the Lin family. What do you mean by 'our Guo family'? I belong to the Lin family from now on!"

Upon hearing this, Lin Haoran burst into laughter.

This little girl is so cute.

The car had only been driving slowly for a few minutes when it came to a stop.

At this moment, they had stopped in front of the Lin family's villa in Deep Water Bay.

Inside the house, upon hearing the engine, Mr. and Mrs. Lin quickly came out, wearing coats.

"Daddy, Mommy, why aren't you resting so late?" Lin Haoran quickly got out of the car and took a few steps to help his mother.

Guo Xiaohan followed obediently to the side and greeted them softly, "Hello, Uncle and Aunt."

"I knew it was you when I heard the car."

Lin's mother took Lin Haoran's hand and looked at Guo Xiaohan with affection, "Xiaohan is here too. Come inside quickly, it's cold outside."

Although Mr. Lin didn't say anything, his eyes were full of satisfaction and smiles as he looked at his son and future daughter-in-law.

In the past, he had to treat the Guo family of Nanyang with utmost respect in order to cooperate with them, as the two sides were not on the same level.

But now, he has a daughter-in-law from the Guo family who married into the family, which is really hard to imagine.

Although his son has been extremely busy lately, he always brings good news when he comes home. He is also becoming more composed and capable, which makes his father both proud and at ease.

The group entered the villa's bright living room.

The servants quickly served hot tea and snacks.

"Did you just come from your Uncle Guo's house?" Lin's mother asked with concern. "Did you have a good dinner?"

"I've eaten. Uncle Guo and Aunt Guo were very hospitable." Lin Haoran took the hot tea to warm his hands. "We talked about some things, about the wedding. Daddy, Mommy, let's go to the study to talk!"

Upon hearing this, Lin Wan'an knew that there were some things he couldn't tell the servants.

The four of them entered the study one after another, with Guo Xiaohan bringing in tea and snacks at the very back.

After closing the door, Lin Haoran told his parents about his plan.

Lin Wan'an, the father, has been busy preparing for his wedding lately, and even his mother has rarely gone out, as she has been busy with all the preparations.

As for Media Asia Films, there are professional managers in charge, so even if Mr. Lin visits less often, it won't be a problem at all.

Between the film company and his son's life event, the latter was naturally the most important.

As for Lin's mother, she has always been very discreet and never talks about family matters, so it doesn't matter if she finds out.

It's a good thing if it can make parents happy.

"Her Majesty the Queen will attend the wedding and act as a matchmaker?" Lin's parents, like Guo Henian, were shocked when they heard the news.

"It's true, Daddy, Mommy," Lin Haoran confirmed, his tone somewhat calm. "The Queen will be attending in person, so the scale and significance of this wedding are completely different."

I intend to make it a globally significant event, not only a joyous occasion for us, but also a stage to showcase the strength of the Lin family and the Hong Kong Chinese community to the world.

Although Mr. and Mrs. Lin were somewhat incredulous, they couldn't help but gasp when their son confirmed it with his own words, their faces filled with shock and pride.

Queen Elizabeth!

What an esteemed person he was!
They actually want to attend the Lin family's wedding!
This is simply an auspicious sign, no, it's the ultimate way to bring glory to one's ancestors!
"Good! Good! Good!"

Mr. Lin was so excited that he said "good" three times in a row, his hands trembling slightly.

"This is an immense honor, but also an immense responsibility! Haoran, you must consider every aspect and make absolutely no mistakes. These things are beyond your father's capabilities, and I'm afraid we can't help you anymore!"

"Daddy, don't worry, I have a complete plan. Uncle Guo has agreed to help with all his might, and Citibank will also lend a hand," Lin Haoran reassured him. (End of Chapter)