Entertainment mogul: Starting his business with the internet

Chapter 527 The world is awake
[In-depth analysis of Tenda Technology's rise to the Fortune Global 500: Coronation and Journey]

ID: 川流不息 (PhD in Economics, Guanghua School of Management, Peking University)
Liu Shishi noticed that the blogger's verified information showed that he was a PhD in Economics from Guanghua School of Management, and she was slightly surprised: "He is actually from the same college as Yi Yi."

This gave her even more confidence in the professionalism of the blog post, so she focused her attention and began to read it carefully.

"The Fortune Global 500 is the most authoritative and prestigious brand in the global business world. Reaching this ranking means that Tenda Technology has officially transitioned from a successful internet company to a world-class business giant."

The more outstanding a talent is, the more they yearn to realize their ambitions on the top stage.

By becoming a Fortune 500 company, Tenda Technology will have equal influence when competing with American tech giants such as Apple, Google, and Amazon for top global talent.

With its ownership of WeChat, the world's most popular instant messaging software, and its status as a Fortune Global 500 company, Tenda's voice will carry significant weight at international forums concerning internet governance, data security, and technical standards.

Western government agencies, industry associations, and business organizations need to listen carefully and treat this rising star from the East with caution.

From the moment Tenda Technology entered the Fortune Global 500 list, the global internet landscape underwent a historic transformation.

This signifies that the old order, previously dominated by the bipolar world of Europe and America, is irreversibly evolving into a new era of parallel power between China and the United States.

Tenda has proven to the world that China can not only give birth to companies that succeed based on its huge domestic market, but also nurture technological products that conquer the world.

In some aspects, it has transcended commerce itself, becoming a pioneer and benchmark for exporting China's cultural soft power and technological hard power.

However, every blessing has its curse. Great glory also means that one can no longer hide from the spotlight.

As a Fortune 500 company with 20 billion global users, control over communication channels and massive amounts of data, and business reach extending to key areas of the digital economy, Tenda is destined to no longer exist simply as a commercial company.

It will inevitably become an important strategic node, and even a potential point of friction, between the two major powers, China and the United States, on issues such as technological competition, cybersecurity, and data sovereignty.

Song Ci and his Tengda Technology will have to get more deeply involved in the geopolitical vortex.

How to balance and maneuver between the two countries, protecting the company's interests without becoming a political pawn, will be his biggest challenge as a tech giant and business leader!

The comments section below the blog post was also buzzing with discussion:

"Great, great, great! The blogger truly lives up to his reputation as a famous 'word fanatic' on Weibo, but I'm impressed by this analysis! No wonder he's a PhD, his perspective is so insightful!"

"I understand what the blogger means. Being listed among the Fortune Global 500 is a coronation, officially allowing Tenda to 'enter the hall';
But it also means it can no longer hide; from now on, it has officially stepped onto the ever-changing international stage, where both overt and covert attacks will follow.

"You've gone too far! Can't we just be happy that Chinese companies are awesome? (doge) But the last paragraph about geopolitical issues is indeed chilling to think about..."

After reading this lengthy blog post of several thousand words, which was both insightful and profound, Liu Shishi slowly put down her phone, turned her gaze to the blue sky outside the window, and let her thoughts drift into the distance.

I couldn't help but recall that stressful night a few years ago, on the eve of WeChat's all-out push into overseas markets.

Her husband, Song Ci, stayed up all night, standing alone on the balcony, gazing at the boundless starry sky, lost in thought.

At this moment, she belatedly realized the weight behind her husband's silence back then.

Perhaps at that time, on that seemingly peaceful night, he had already clearly foreseen that leading WeChat to the world was destined to be a perilous journey that required constantly overcoming obstacles.

It's not just a business competition, but a complex game of national power, culture, rules, and even politics.

"I don't know... whether it was right or wrong of me to encourage him and help him strengthen his beliefs back then?"

A complex mix of emotions quietly surfaced in Liu Shishi's heart. This emotion contained pride, heartache, a recollection of past hardships, and a lingering worry about the uncertainties of the future.

At the same time, Los Angeles was shrouded in night. In a suite at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Song Ci stood by the window with her phone in hand, overlooking the brightly lit and dazzling streetscape of the City of Angels.

"Xiao Song, you did a great job!" A gentle yet authoritative voice came from the other end of the phone.

"The leader has spoken, expressing great satisfaction and approval with your performance at today's meeting."

He paused slightly, allowing the weight of each word to be clearly conveyed, "The leader said that the success of Tengda Technology is not just the success of one company."

It is also a vivid microcosm of China's economic transformation and upgrading, and its leapfrog development in the field of high technology.

You have proven that Chinese companies can not only grow big, but also grow strong, and can firmly stand at the forefront of the world's leading industries.

The light from outside the window reflected in Song Ci's deep pupils. He took a slight breath and said in a sincere and humble tone, "Director Li, please be sure to convey my gratitude for the leader's kindness."

"Tengda's current success is largely due to my personal fortune; I, Song Ci, have simply ridden the mighty east wind of national development."

His voice was steady and calm, carrying a clear-headedness that had come from experience: "We just happen to be at the forefront of this great era."

It is the country's continuous investment in basic scientific research and its vigorous efforts to optimize the business environment that have given us the confidence to take risks and the stage to fully demonstrate our abilities.

As for Tengda itself, it is truly insignificant, merely a relatively lucky ripple in the torrent of this era.

Song Ci paused briefly, organizing his thoughts, and steered the conversation to a deeper level: "Director Li, you could compare the global technological competition to a long ball game."

So, at best, Tengda only gained a slight advantage in the first half of the game thanks to a fast break. The real test is yet to come.

At this point, his tone became serious: "The second half has begun, and this competition will go far beyond technology and business itself."

It involves global supply chain restructuring, the right to set technology standards, and even complex geopolitical factors.

This will be a more complex, more brutal, and more challenging long-term confrontation that requires wisdom and composure.

For Tengda Technology, the road ahead remains long and arduous, with numerous obstacles and challenges ahead.

The receiver carried Director Li's heartfelt praise, his voice filled with undisguised admiration: "No wonder both leaders favor you so much."

"He is neither elated by universal praise nor discouraged by universal condemnation; he is firm in distinguishing between internal and external matters, and clear about the boundaries of honor and disgrace."

Song Ci, your clear understanding of your own position and the external environment is indeed an essential quality and mindset for those who achieve great things. Excellent, very excellent!

“You flatter me, Director. I’m just doing my duty as a business leader,” Song Ci replied humbly once again.

The two briefly discussed the upcoming schedule, and Director Li confirmed several key details of the meeting. Just when Song Ci thought the call was about to end, the other party changed the subject, seemingly casually, but actually steer the conversation to another important topic.

"Xiao Song, there's something I'd like to ask you about. Does Tengda Technology have a preliminary timetable for its future IPO?"

Song Ci's eyes narrowed slightly, knowing that this question could not be avoided, nor did he intend to hide it. After a moment's thought, he answered clearly: "The listing process is expected to begin next spring."

"Is the target... US stocks?" Director Li's second question followed immediately, his tone calm and unwavering.

"Yes."

There was a brief silence on the other end of the phone. A few seconds later, Director Li's voice rang out again, more soothing than before, but also more earnest.

"Xiao Song, the comrades in Hong Kong and the relevant officials of the China Securities Regulatory Commission have expressed a certain expectation in a rather tactful way on different occasions before."

They hope that, given the circumstances, you could also…appropriately consider the possibility of listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange or the A-share market for Tenda?

Before Song Ci could respond, he quickly added, "Of course, you must not feel any pressure. The premise is that it absolutely cannot affect Tengda's healthy development."

We all know very well how difficult and precious it is to nurture a Fortune 500-level technology company like Tenda.

No one wants it to be affected by any external factors. You can rest assured about that.

Song Ci turned her gaze away from the dazzling lights outside the window and towards the luxurious and elegant decor of the suite, her eyes becoming sharp and determined.

He knew that he had to make his stance clear at this moment. "I'm sorry, Director Li." His voice was not loud, but it was resolute.

"Tengda's decision to go public in the United States is a long-term plan that was determined by the company's strategic development committee after years of repeated deliberations, and it was not a spur-of-the-moment decision."

He then began to state his reasons, with clear logic: "To be frank, considering Tenda's current competitive landscape, technological barriers, and future growth expectations..."

Its size and valuation potential require a platform with sufficient capacity, high liquidity, and the ability to attract top global capital.

Globally, only Nasdaq can fully absorb and unleash the value of Tenda.

Only there can Tenda stand on the same capital stage as tech giants like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft, competing and vying for supremacy.

This is not just about raising funds, but also about demonstrating our strength and confidence to the global market; it's an indispensable part of our globalization strategy.

Song Ci paused for a moment, then offered a more crucial and persuasive reason: "In addition, there is an unavoidable institutional obstacle."

Director Li, as you may know, Tengda Technology adopted the AB share structure, which is common among technology companies, from its inception. That is, the equity model of different voting rights for the same shares.

Currently, both the Hong Kong and A-share markets, despite ongoing reforms, do not yet support this equity structure.

Forcibly changing the company's equity structure to accommodate the listing location would undoubtedly shake the foundation of Tengda's stability and development, a risk we cannot afford.

After listening to this reasoned, well-founded, and respectful explanation, Director Li seemed finally relieved and instead offered clear support.

"I understand. So that's how it is. Having ambition is a good thing, and daring to compete on the world's highest stage—that courage and boldness is exactly what the country needs!"

"Just proceed with your established plan; don't worry about it anymore. Both the leader and I will be your and Tengda Technology's strongest support."

Hearing the leader's resolute guarantee, Song Ci's tense mind finally relaxed, knowing that the most crucial hurdle had been overcome.

He quickly spoke into the microphone, expressing his sincere gratitude: "Thank you so much for your understanding and support! Tengda will do its utmost to live up to the times and expectations."

Just as Song Ci ended the call, a WeChat video call invitation sounded, and he quickly pressed the answer button.

The next second, Liu Shishi's charming face, which could be both happy and angry, filled the entire screen.

Adorned with exquisite pearl hairpins and a gorgeous theatrical costume, her makeup was radiant, and her eyes exuded a classical elegance.

She smiled sweetly, her voice carrying a hint of coquettishness: "Mr. Song, congratulations!"

Song Ci naturally knew what she was congratulating her about. Looking at his wife's radiant smile on the screen, he was filled with emotion.

Finally, it culminated in a gentle yet sober response: "Thank you, Madam. However, the journey is long, and we've only reached the halfway point. The road ahead is still long."

Liu Shishi saw that although he spoke humbly, the composure and confidence he had gained through trials and tribulations could not be concealed between his brows, and she felt both proud and concerned.

She leaned slightly closer to the screen and lowered her voice: "I saw on the news that the leaders are leaving for home tomorrow. Yiyi, are you coming back with them?"

“I’ll stay for a couple more days.” Song Ci adjusted her posture, sinking more comfortably into the sofa. “Tomorrow afternoon I’ll fly to Seattle to visit Bill Gates at his house to discuss some things.”

“Bill Gates?” Liu Shishi’s eyes lit up, and a look of great interest appeared on her face. “Is it that mansion that’s called the ‘House of the Future’?”
I heard his house is really high-tech, with smart systems everywhere. Is even watering the trees fully automatic?

Seeing the curiosity on his wife's face, Song Ci couldn't help but smile and replied affectionately, "Rumors always have an exaggerated element."

However, I will go and see for myself tomorrow, and then report back to Your Majesty in detail, what do you say?

"Alright, you'd better observe carefully and tell me about it later."

"Yes, sir. By the way, Shishi, how's filming going in Hengdian lately? How's the progress of 'The Imperial Doctress'?"

"That's fine, just follow the steps." Liu Shishi twirled a tassel hanging from her costume with her finger, her tone relaxed.

"I've done the math, and my scenes in 'The Imperial Doctress' should all be finished by the middle of next month. Then I can finally get some rest."

"Yes, thank you for your hard work." Song Ci's gaze softened. "I'm returning to China the day after tomorrow, flying directly to the East China Sea. Before heading south to visit the leaders of Jiangxi, Fujian, and Guangdong provinces, I'll visit the set in Hengdian."

"Really?" This was undoubtedly a pleasant surprise. Upon hearing this, Liu Shishi's face lit up with joy, and a bright smile spread across her face, as if the entire screen had brightened up a bit.

"Great! I'll be waiting for you!"

(End of this chapter)