Entertainment mogul: Starting his business with the internet

Chapter 370 Heading Towards Capital

In a small meeting room at Tangren Film & Television, sunlight streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows, casting a warm glow on the rectangular conference table.

Sitting upright in the main seat, Liu Shishi coughed lightly, attracting everyone's attention. Imitating the way Song Ci held meetings in her memory, she said solemnly, "Comrades, the meeting is now in session."

Seeing the eldest sister's serious and deliberately solemn demeanor, several girls present covered their mouths and chuckled, and even Cai Yinong couldn't help but laugh, instantly lightening the atmosphere in the meeting room.

Liu Shishi didn't mind and looked at her capable assistant: "Yuanyuan, tell me about the current overall situation of the studio."

"Okay, Senior Sister."

Jiang Yuanyuan, now the executive agent of the top star, is no longer the naive assistant she once was.

Apart from business endorsements which are still personally managed by her agent Cai Yinong, she has basically taken over the studio's daily affairs, including business negotiations and media relations.

He deftly opened the documents and gave a well-organized report: "Currently, excluding the merged Zhouyi production team, the studio has a total of 28 people across all departments."

In addition, the company has one signed artist, Sun Yizhou, and two signed directors, Lin Yufen and Jiang Wei.

With years of experience and having traveled extensively alongside top female celebrities and the richest man in China, Jiang Yuanyuan has become quite knowledgeable and well-informed, and she manages her studio very well on a daily basis.

Although Liu Shishi Film and Television Culture Studio has a small number of employees and a small scale, it has all the necessary qualifications, including important licenses such as the Radio and Television Program Production License and the Internet Culture Business License. It can be said that although it is small, it has all the essential functions.

Listening to the report, Liu Shishi couldn't help but feel the responsibility on her shoulders; the livelihoods of dozens of people in the studio depended on her.

This made her more aware of the difficulties her husband faced in starting the company. Tengda Group has nearly 30,000 employees, and its annual salary expenditure alone reaches 20 billion yuan. The responsibility and pressure are unimaginable.

What specific plans does everyone have at the moment?

Jiang Yuanyuan continued her report: "Director Lin has taken on a drama called 'The War of Children,' which is an urban romance drama invested in by Ren Quan Studio."

Director Jiang is currently assembling the production team and preparing to film the TV series "The Legend of Chasing Fish". This ancient costume fantasy drama is the first TV series invested in by his studio.

This project is a joint production of our studio, Yu Zheng Studio, and Hunan TV, with a total investment budget of 4000 million yuan. We will hold a 50% stake. Director Jiang and I have already compiled the project materials.

Upon hearing this, Cai Yinong looked at Jiang Yuanyuan in surprise. He never expected that his naive little assistant from back then would be so generous, spending 2000 million on her first production. She was truly fearless.

"Send me the materials after the meeting." Liu Shishi nodded in acknowledgment; Jiang Yuanyuan had previously reported on this project to her.

Although 2000 million is not a large sum for her, it is, after all, the studio's first officially produced film and television project, so she is quite concerned about it.

"Regarding artist management," Jiang Yuanyuan turned to the next page, "thanks to the recent popularity of 'iPartment 3,' Sun Yizhou received his first brand endorsement, Master Kong Braised Beef Noodles."

"Yizhou, congratulations." Liu Shishi smiled broadly, feeling even happier than when she received the endorsement deal years ago.

"Thank you, boss!" Sun Yizhou couldn't hide his excitement. Although he became famous with the "iPartment" series, the lack of brand endorsements had always been a worry for him.

Now that he has finally landed his first endorsement, it means that his commercial value has been recognized by the market, and he can finally breathe a sigh of relief.

Jiang Yuanyuan was also relieved. As Sun Yizhou's agent, the fact that her partner's artist had not been able to secure endorsements would undoubtedly lead people in the industry to question her agent and public relations abilities.

Although Master Kong braised beef noodles are not a high-quality endorsement, they have at least made a name for themselves.

"There are no other matters to report at the moment."

Liu Shishi nodded slightly. The studio mainly revolves around her career, and when she doesn't have much work to do, everyone's work is relatively easy.

"By the way, Yizhou, are you free lately?"

"Yes, I'm currently filming 'Love Begins with Confession,' produced by Croton Media. Filming will wrap up in a few days, and I'll be free after that."

"That's good." Sister Yi's eyes lit up. "I'm flying to Harbin in a couple of days to film a movie with director Chen Kai. There's a supporting role that would be perfect for you, Yizhou. Would you like to give it a try?"

"Yes! Of course I want it!" Sun Yizhou nodded vigorously, his face full of surprise. This was a movie by a famous director, and even if he could only show his face, it would be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

"Shishi..." Upon hearing that it was a Chen Kaige movie, Cai Yinong instinctively wanted to fight for Hu Ge's opportunity, but then he thought that Sister Yi had already promised to Sun Yizhou, so it would be inappropriate to speak again, and he had no choice but to swallow his words.

"What's wrong, Sister K?"

Cai Yinong forced a smile and made up an excuse: "It's nothing. I was just reminding you not to forget to schedule your time when you're filming movies, so you can also shoot commercials for the brands you're endorsing."

"Don't worry, Sister K!" Liu Shishi replied with a smile, then looked at the studio's financial director, "Director Yang, I own shares in quite a few companies. Can I transfer them to the studio for unified management?"

CFO Yang Jie is a senior finance professional with expertise in tax law. She gave a very professional suggestion: "It's possible, but it's not worthwhile from a tax perspective."

If you, Mr. Liu, establish a limited partnership to indirectly hold shares, and choose to register the company in a place with tax incentives, the assessed personal income tax rate can be as low as 3.5%.

If you invest directly in shares through your studio, you'll first need to pay 25% corporate income tax, and then you'll need to pay an additional 20% personal income tax on dividends distributed to you personally.

"Paying more taxes is fine, as long as it's convenient for unified management." The eldest sister didn't care. For a wealthy woman like her, who was worth hundreds of billions, this difference in taxes was insignificant. She also disdained to take advantage of local policies to benefit the country.

Liu Shishi currently holds shares in several companies:
Tangren Media: 18%
Yuehua Entertainment: 10%
Midday Sunlight: 40%
Pop Mart: 30%
Kidswant Maternal and Infant Products: 28.8%
In addition, he also owns an asset management company that is responsible for the leasing, property management, and other affairs of the building on the Bund.

Apart from the asset management company which has professional managers, she plans to transfer all other shares to the studio and entrust them to professional financial personnel for unified management.

Yang Jie neither agreed nor disagreed with Liu Shishi's idea. She was paid to do things, and she did whatever her boss asked of her, dutifully carrying out her boss's decisions.

Fearing that her subordinates might try to save money for her, Liu Shishi specifically instructed, "Director Yang, you must pay close attention to the studio's tax matters and absolutely cannot make any mistakes."

Although her husband, Song Ci, is Asia's richest man with immense power, his success has attracted attention, and many rivals are watching him and her. She must be extremely careful in everything she does, lest her rivals find any fault with her.

"Understood!" Yang Jie's expression hardened upon hearing this, and she solemnly replied.

Liu Shishi looked around at everyone: "If there's nothing else, everyone can adjourn the meeting. Director Jiang and Yuanyuan, please stay behind."

Sun Yizhou suddenly raised his hand: "Boss, screenwriter Wang and director Wei want to talk to you about the investment share of 'iPartment 4'."

"I know! I'll be at the company these next few days, they can come anytime." The female lead replied casually, fully aware of their intentions. With the huge success of the "iPartment" series, screenwriter Wang Yuan and director Wei Zhen's net worth has skyrocketed, and now that they have the resources, they naturally want even greater influence.

But if it weren't for Liu Shishi's discerning eye and generous financial support during the most difficult time for the first season, "iPartment 1" would have been stillborn long ago, and the entire series wouldn't be as popular as it is today.

The two wanted to start their own business, but were afraid of offending the leading lady, which led to the investment for "iPartment 4" remaining unresolved.

Interestingly, screenwriter Wang Yuan recently founded Gaoge Film & Television with the support of Huace Media.

With the backing of Huace Media, one of the four major listed private film and television companies in China, Wang Yuan wanted to take the lead in investing in "iPartment 4".

Upon hearing this, Cai Yinong sighed softly, realizing that he had truly misjudged the show back then. He never expected that "iPartment" would become such a hugely popular series.

"Shishi, this drama is very popular now. Not only is Huace involved, but Croton Media is also eyeing it covetously."

“I know, I’ll wait for them to come and talk to me.” Liu Shishi squinted, her eyes sharp.

She saw through the whole thing perfectly. Huace and Croton were flirting with each other, trying to get Wang Yuan to ditch her and monopolize the investment in "iPartment 4". But things weren't that easy. Did they think she was the top star for nothing?
Although money can be a powerful motivator, and human nature is such that Wang Yuan's actions are understandable, and investments cannot be forced, Liu Shishi is not someone to be trifled with.

She can forgo investing in the show, but the online streaming platform must be Tengda's Toutiao Video; that's her bottom line.

"It's good that you have a plan." Seeing that Liu Shishi had already made up her mind, Cai Yinong said no more. Now that the top star had many capable people around her to offer advice and suggestions, he didn't need to worry too much.

After the meeting ended, everyone except Jiang Wei and Jiang Yuanyuan left the office.

Seeing that the CFO was still sitting, Liu Shishi asked curiously, "Director Yang, is there anything else?"

"We received news from Standard Chartered Bank that the courtyard house you entrusted them to sell has been sold, and they are just waiting for you to sign the final documents."

"It sold so quickly!" Liu Shishi was slightly surprised. The courtyard house that Song Ci had given her had been vacant, so she and her husband decided to take advantage of the good market and sell it for cash. "Let them come to complete the formalities tomorrow morning."

"I'll tell them to come over tomorrow," Yang Jie replied, and without further ado, she got up and left the office.

Only three people remained in the meeting room.

The lead actress cut to the chase: "Director Jiang, have the male and female leads for 'Legend of Chasing Fish' been cast yet?"

Jiang Wei dared not delay and immediately replied, "I would like to use Lin Gengxin for the male lead, and as for the female lead, Yu Zheng Studio recommended Zhao Liying from Tengda Culture."

"Liying!" Liu Shishi was stunned when she heard the choice for the female lead.

"Do you think Zhao Liying is unsuitable?" Jiang Wei asked cautiously.

He previously worked as an assistant director on Zhang Dahuzi's "Heavenly Sword and Dragon Sabre" set, and was later invited by Cai Yinong to film web dramas for Tangren Media. Now he has joined Yijie Studio and finally become a TV drama director, and he cherishes this opportunity very much.

“There’s nothing wrong with it, Liying is great.” Liu Shishi smiled. Her original intention was to have Jiang Wei use people from Tengda Culture. After all, husband and wife are one, and resources would definitely be given priority to artists from Tengda and Tangren, so that they could be absorbed internally.

After saying that, he turned his gaze to his earliest and most loyal followers: "Yuanyuan, don't feel pressured as this is your first time being a producer. I will fully support you. If you don't understand something, ask Sister K for advice. Take it slow and steady with the studio's first production!"

“Yes, Shishi, I won’t let you down. Director Jiang and I will do our best to make money for the studio.” Jiang Yuanyuan nodded vigorously, and couldn’t help but recall the scene when Liu Shishi went to Tengda Culture for an internship in 04.

Seven years have passed in the blink of an eye. The little girl who knew nothing back then and asked me questions has become the most dazzling female star in the entertainment industry. I have followed her and embarked on a different path in life. Fate is truly wonderful.

Liu Shishi smiled gently and comforted her softly, "Don't put too much pressure on yourself. This is your first film, so it's mainly about gaining experience. It's okay if you lose money."

Jiang Yuanyuan's voice choked with emotion, tears streaming down her face: "Shishi, you're so kind. No wonder Chairman Song likes you so much."

The following morning, the sunlight was gentle.

Liu Shishi was in her office reviewing scripts when her assistant, Lin Xia, gently knocked on the door. "Sister, the people from Standard Chartered Bank are here."

"Please let them in." The eldest sister put down the script, looked up and ordered, "Prepare two cups of coffee, Xiaoxia."

Lin Xia led a middle-aged man in a suit and a woman in sophisticated business attire into the office.

Upon seeing the newcomers, Liu Shishi stood up with slight surprise to greet them: "President Chen, what brings you here? Please have a seat! Manager Li, please have a seat."

The visitors were Chen Deming, CEO of Standard Chartered Bank's Mainland China region and General Manager of its Donghai branch, and Li Xueli, Liu Shishi's financial advisor.

"Mr. Liu, I apologize for disturbing you by coming here." President Chen said with a smile, "As a VIP client like you, we naturally have to provide you with the best service."

After exchanging pleasantries, the three sat down on the sofa.

President Chen smiled and said, "President Liu, the courtyard house you entrusted to our bank for sale has been successfully sold. Manager Li, please report the details to President Liu as soon as possible."

Li Xueli, shrewd and capable, said: "Mr. Liu, as you have entrusted, the transaction was completed at the price of 81,000 yuan per square meter as you expected, with a total amount of 96 million yuan. After deducting relevant taxes and fees, we received 8927 million yuan."

"Thank you for your hard work." Liu Shishi smiled broadly, very satisfied with the result. This courtyard house had netted her over 40 million yuan.

Taking advantage of the situation, President Chen recommended: "Mr. Liu, if you're not in a hurry to use such a large sum of cash, Standard Chartered Bank has just launched a high-yield short-term wealth management product that's very worthwhile..."

"No need," Liu Shishi interrupted with a light laugh. "I'd rather ask my husband to invest in financial products."

President Chen was speechless for a moment, realizing that the richest man's investment returns were definitely stronger than those of the bank.

"Manager Li, what is the current gold price at the bank?" Liu Shishi thought for a moment. She and her husband were not short of cash at the moment, so they might as well invest in some value-preserving products. Wealthy families should diversify their asset allocation, so they might as well simply and directly buy gold.

"Our bank's gold bar price is 380 yuan per gram."

Liu Shishi quickly calculated that 8927 million yuan could buy about 468 gold bars weighing 500 grams each: "How about this, I'll add another 600 million yuan to buy 500 gold bars. We can continue to cooperate on private banking services later."

Li Xueli immediately understood. The richest woman had both offered a way out and hinted at the possibility of future cooperation, so she could only reluctantly agree: "I'll arrange it for you right away. Standard Chartered Bank's VIP vault will certainly safeguard your assets properly."

(End of this chapter)