Rekindle 2003

Chapter 1078: With lofty ambitions, we go to the galaxy

12:14 p.m. on May th.

In the magnificent hall of the Yanjing International Conference Center, the lights are dazzling and the voices are bustling.

The press conference of the China Business Summit was grandly held here.

Inside the venue, journalists from home and abroad, carrying all sorts of photographic and video equipment, rushed to grab the best shooting positions.

At the same time, entrepreneurs from all walks of life dressed in formal attire and in high spirits gathered together to witness the opening of this business event.

The moderator of the meeting, Mr. Guo Weimin, Vice President of the China Enterprise Confederation, walked up to the stage gracefully and first gave a brief introduction to the agenda and objectives of the summit.

He mentioned that the summit aims to promote the active participation of Chinese enterprises in the process of global economic integration, promote exchanges and cooperation between domestic and foreign enterprises, and jointly explore the development trends of the world economy.

Then, Vice President Zhang Xiaoyu took over the microphone and introduced in detail the highlights of the conference, including keynote speeches by several internationally renowned entrepreneurs, as well as a series of high-end roundtable forums and business matching activities.

He emphasized that this is not only a business event, but also a collision of wisdom and a display of innovation.

Zhang Xiaoyu continued to say that the theme of this summit is "innovation, cooperation and win-win". He hoped that through this conference, a more open, inclusive and shared platform could be built for Chinese companies, allowing them to ride the waves of globalization and achieve new breakthroughs.

After Vice President Zhang Xiaoyu introduced the basic situation of the summit, the press conference entered the question-and-answer session.

As usual, several reporters from official media raised questions about the preparations for the meeting, participating companies, and expected outcomes.

Vice President Zhang Xiaoyu answered the questions one by one and the scene was orderly.

However, when the question-and-answer session reached the middle, the reporters' attention began to shift subtly.

They all pointed their cameras at the corporate guest area of ​​the press conference, where sat a young figure - Qing Yun, chairman of the Yanhuang Group.

Seeing this, host Guo Weimin couldn't help feeling helpless.

He had anticipated this situation, so he arranged for Yanhuang Xiaoqing to enter the guest interview area.

In fact, according to common sense, Qing Yun is totally unqualified.

In the past, this position was generally held by the head of a central state-owned enterprise or the chairman of a super-large private group.

But there is no way. After all, the young entrepreneur has made too much noise recently.

A technology company from China publicly invited an acquisition of the most successful IT giant in the world's history - Abiymu...

This is undoubtedly an exciting event.

Although it is only its personal computer business unit that has been losing money for many years, the significance of this action goes far beyond the scope of a business transaction.

Although it was just an intentional invitation, this action was enough to attract global attention.

Of course, the most important thing is that the US dollar deposit in the overseas account of Yanhuang Group proves that this is not a gimmick to attract attention, but that they really have the ability to do so.

People marvel at the Yanhuang Group's ambitions and are also re-evaluating the international competitiveness of Chinese companies.

Especially when all industries in the country suffered a severe blow after embracing the world at the beginning of the century, this invitation to acquire was given too much significance.

The statement that "Chinese enterprises are rising on the international stage and China's growing technological power" is purely the media's self-entertainment.

However, it is a fact that "under the backdrop of global economic integration, Chinese enterprises are able to take the initiative and participate in mergers and acquisitions in the international market, which not only enhances the country's soft power but also strengthens the nation's self-confidence."

This is also the reason why Qingyun did so even though it knew that the acquisition of Abiemu would result in corporate culture conflicts and increased labor costs, and the actual results would be far less cheap than building its own global channels.

I'm really not after the patent library and brand influence that bald guy Yang Xu talked about.

Because this is a "bugle-blowing" action, blowing the horn for Chinese companies to enter the international stage.

This is not only a business act, but also an action that is in line with the country's will to "go global".

It sends a strong signal: Chinese companies are rising rapidly, Chinese brands are going global, and China's economic and technological strength is constantly increasing.

This has immeasurable value in enhancing the country's image, strengthening national pride, and stimulating the people's enthusiasm for innovation and entrepreneurship.

Facing the reporters' eager gazes and frequently flashing cameras, Qing Yun remained calm and composed as usual.

He knew that every move he and the Yanhuang Group made would be put under the spotlight and scrutinized by the whole world.

Because at this moment, he not only represents the image of a new generation of Chinese entrepreneurs, but also carries the expectations and dreams of the Chinese people for the rise of the country and the rejuvenation of the nation.

In order not to affect him, Qin Manyan, who had to grab the limelight in such appearances, stayed in Huating obediently and did not come to Yanjing.

As the press conference entered the question-and-answer session, reporters raised their hands one after another, hoping to get the opportunity to ask questions.

Among the many arms, Qing Yun's eyes fell on a familiar face - Liu Hairuo, a reporter for Phoenix TV.

When Liu Hairuo was chosen by Qing Yun, she couldn't help feeling a little surprised, and even a little flattered. After all, there were many reporters from official media before her.

Liu Hairuo cleared his throat and asked a very friendly and conventional question:

"Hello, Director Qing. I am Liu Hairuo, a reporter from Phoenix TV. May I ask what is the purpose of Yanhuang Group's invitation to acquire Abbeymu's personal computer business?"

Faced with this easy-to-scoring question, Qing Yun smiled slightly, and his voice was calm and clear.

"Hello, reporter Liu. First of all, I want to say that Yanhuang Group has been committed to promoting innovation and progress in science and technology. Our goal is to become a leading global technology company.

This invitation to acquire Abbey's PC business is an important step in our globalization strategy."

He paused and continued, "Abeymu is a pioneer and leader in the global IT industry, and their personal computer business was once a benchmark in the industry.

Although the business has faced some challenges in recent years, we believe that through the innovation capabilities and management experience of Yanhuang Group, we can bring new vitality to this business...

We hope to contribute to China's science and technology industry through our own efforts, and to the rise of the country and the rejuvenation of the nation..."

The young man was very adept at speaking in clichés, but there was a gleam of ambition in his eyes, which made everyone on and off the stage think of such sentiments as "A young man should have lofty ambitions, and strive to be a hero in the vast sky", "When you are young, you should dress in fine clothes and ride a fierce horse, and live up to your youth."

Qing Yun's answer won applause from the audience, especially from domestic reporters.

Liu Hairuo also nodded, with a hint of admiration in her eyes.

She knew that Qing Yun's words were not only an explanation of the merger, but also a commitment to all Chinese people.

However, as a reporter, it would be a dereliction of duty if I let the question-and-answer session pass so calmly.

After the return of favor, Liu Hairuo smiled and said, "Boss Xiaoqing, isn't it a bit risky for the newly born Yanhuang Group to acquire Abyem's global PC business?
Some of my foreign colleagues even used the phrase 'He has a heart of hunger, but desire is not enough.' This means 'He has a heart of hunger, but desire alone is not enough' to evaluate your behavior."

Qing Yun shrugged his shoulders upon hearing this and said, "I agree with the views of those journalist friends. Desire alone is not enough.

Fortunately, I not only have the desire, but also the ability to deal with the risks.”

He smiled and said, "I don't deny that acquiring a foreign company with a very different corporate culture is a daunting challenge.

But fortunately, Yanhuang Group is also very young and has enough room to accommodate diversified corporate culture.

Through a series of mergers and acquisitions and restructuring, Yanhuang Group has currently occupied 61% of the domestic PC market.

If it continues to grow, investors will certainly demand continued profit growth. If it does not grow, Yanhuang will continue to shrink. In this case, Yanhuang must go international.

If Yanhuang chooses the internationalization path, it will need a large number of talents, various networks, money, and a lot of time.

Merger is also a way. Although there are risks, these risks are controllable.

Two years ago, Abyemu had approached Fantasy, but Fantasy refused at that time because the risk was too great and Fantasy still had a lot of room for development, so Mr. Zhiliu rejected the suggestion.

Including this morning, Mr. Zhi Liu and I carefully analyzed the risks of the acquisition and found that there are three major ones.

First, will Abbeymu’s original customers continue to buy this product after hearing that the business has been acquired by Yanhuang?
Second, the more than 10,000 employees of Abeymu’s PC business are proud to be employees of Abeymu, so will they give up Yanhuang in the future?

Third, can the corporate culture and management of the two companies be well integrated?
After careful analysis, we believe that these risks are controllable..."

Qing Yun's eloquent speech on the stage was like dropping a huge rock into a calm lake, causing thousands of waves.

It's not about those empty words.

Rather, the reporters in the audience, especially the domestic reporters who were well aware of the long-standing competition and entanglement between the Yanhuang Group and the Fantasy Group, were all stunned and trembling.

Qingyun?

Zhi Liu?

Putting these two names together once meant incompatibility in the business world, but now they are sitting together to discuss the acquisition plan of Abiemu?
The turn of this scene is more dramatic and gripping than any commercial script.

The reporters' emotions were aroused and they were whispering to each other, discussing this shocking news.

Wang Lan, a reporter from Computer News, was even more anxious. He quickly raised his hand, his eyes flashing with desire for the headlines.

Qing Yun's gaze passed through the crowd and fell on Wang Lan. He smiled and nodded, motioning Wang Lan to ask questions.

Faced with this sharp question, Qing Yun did not evade or evade the question.
"Yes, Mr. Reporter, you heard it right." Qing Yun's voice was calm and firm.
"Mr. Zhi Liu is an idol I respect. There were indeed some unpleasant things in the past, but that is in the past."

This is the scene that the higher-ups need to see, and it is also a prerequisite for him to sit here at this summit.

The private economy is an important supplement to the public economy, but the prerequisite is to obey orders.

"In addition, the parent company of Yanhuang Group, Sun Moon Light Hua, has reached a strategic equity investment agreement with Fantasy Group and Digital China. The details..."

He looked at his watch, then raised his head and continued, "The relevant company has also issued an announcement and has temporarily suspended trading. Please see the company announcement for details.

We believe that this cooperation will not only enhance the market competitiveness of Yanhuang Group, but also promote the development of China's entire IT industry."

This announcement exploded in the conference hall like a bombshell.

Reporters raised their cameras and flashes of light went off. They knew this was breaking news that would cause a huge stir in the business world.

Qing Yun continued: “In the wave of globalization, domestic enterprises can only gain a foothold in the international arena if they work together.

This is a way of banding together for warmth and also a manifestation of national cohesion.

We believe that through solidarity and collaboration, we can overcome all difficulties and challenges on the road ahead..."

This beeping moved all the domestic reporters in the audience.

They all recorded this important news and prepared to release it as soon as possible. In this era of information explosion, the speed of news dissemination is amazing.

Soon, the news that Sun Moon Lighting had invested in Fantasy Group spread across the entire Internet and became the headlines of major media outlets.

In this competitive world, the combination of Yanhuang Group and Fantasy Group has undoubtedly given people more room for imagination.

However, whether it is the A-share market or the Hong Kong stock market, the stocks of several related companies have been suspended.

Therefore, people began to look forward to how these two former competitors will create new sparks in their new cooperation and jointly create a new era for Chinese enterprises.

However, foreign journalists obviously do not see it that way.

In other words, the affairs of the Yanhuang Group and the Fantasy Group have nothing to do with them...

As soon as Qing Yun finished speaking, Holland, a senior reporter and economist at the Ugly News Agency and also a member of Abiemu's think tank team, raised his hand.

After introducing himself, Holland said,
"Dear Chairman, who do you think will oppose the acquisition? What do you think of these objections? In other words, what differences do you think will arise in the subsequent negotiations?"

Qing Yun was not surprised by Holland's question. He knew that this was a common question in the minds of everyone who was paying attention to the acquisition.

But this question from Lubianshe is actually a trap.

There are more pitfalls to come.

He smiled and replied calmly: "Mr. Reporter, your question is very good.

It is normal for any major acquisition to face some opposition.

We believe that opposition may come from several aspects: first, competitors; second, existing employees who are conservative about change; and third, investors who are skeptical about cross-border mergers and acquisitions..."

He paused and continued: “We are open and understanding to these objections.

We believe that through effective communication and display of sincerity, most objections can be resolved.

As for the differences in the negotiation process, we believe that they are mainly concentrated in three aspects: one is the price issue, the second is the management rights issue, and the third is the cultural integration issue. "

Emperor Yun looked at Holland with great interest while speaking in clichés without thinking.

“As for the price, we believe that through professional evaluation and negotiation, we will reach a reasonable price acceptable to both parties.

Regarding the issue of management rights, we respect the management team of the original company and are willing to discuss the future management model with them.

As for the issue of cultural integration, we believe that this is the most challenging issue in cross-border mergers and acquisitions, but also the most interesting issue.

We believe that through the joint efforts and wisdom of both parties, we will be able to find the best integration solution..."

Holland listened to Qingyun's answer with a smile on his face, nodding from time to time, but he was cursing in his heart. Having been in China for so many years, he had a deep understanding of the Chinese people's love of holding meetings and discussing things.

The boy in front of him, who was only 18 years old according to his information, could speak such clichés with ease, and he was comprehensive and flawless.

This is kind of fucked up.

I originally wanted to dampen the Chinese people's enthusiasm by asking questions and then using logical arguments.

Mainly because of the sudden "I'm good again" atmosphere among the Chinese, which made him, an American, feel a little embarrassed.

Abbey, the pride of America!

Was it so easy for someone to announce that it was going to be bought?
This behavior is like a Native American official announcing that he wants to marry the daughter of the Rothschild family.

ridiculous!

absurd!

After waiting for Qingyun to finish speaking, Holland simply stated the theme.

“Mr. Chairman, as far as I know, the executives of Abiemu have revealed that they will not accept a full cash purchase price, but insist on a stock exchange.

They expressed their optimism about the development of Yanhuang Group and their desire to participate in its operations.”

As soon as this statement came out, domestic journalists felt proud that the great Abiemu was optimistic about the development of Yanhuang Group and was willing to invest in Yanhuang Group even without cash.

The officials on the rostrum were also moved. This was truly a rare sight.

In the current era, apart from Haier, no domestic company has ever gained recognition from foreign capital.

Zhang Xiaoyu, board member of Global Village Peace University and executive vice president of the International Association for the Promotion of Multinational Corporations, coughed and reminded the young man over there to answer properly.

Guo Weimin, deputy director of the Sixth Ministry's Information Office, also gave Qing Yun an encouraging look, telling him to seize the opportunity.

Emperor Yun just smiled and said, "Thank you Abimu for your optimism about the development of Yanhuang Group."

But he changed the subject, shrugged his shoulders, and said calmly,

“Abiemu is a great company, but every company has its development cycle, and where there is prosperity there must be decline.

In the foreseeable future, we are not optimistic about the development of Abiemu. Exchanging shares for Abiemu will be a drag on the Yanhuang Group.

In response ... we said we would stick with our cash offer.”

The sucker is no longer here.

This sentence caused a huge uproar in the conference room.

In the eyes of the Chinese people in the conference room, Abiemu’s stock swap proposal is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Being able to gain recognition and investment from an international IT giant is an extremely rare honor among domestic companies.

According to traditional thinking, this is not only an affirmation of the strength of the Yanhuang Group, but also an excellent opportunity to enhance its international influence and acquire more resources.

However, Qing Yun's refusal broke this expectation.

His straightforwardness and honesty, as well as his pessimistic prediction about Abiemu's future development, shocked the Chinese people present.

They found it hard to understand why Qing Yun would give up such a cooperation opportunity which they thought could bring huge benefits.

In their perception, cooperation with international giants often means more opportunities and a broader market, but Yanhuang Xiaoqing's overall decision runs counter to this general perception.

Qing Yun's decision is not only a sign of pessimism towards Abiemu, but also a challenge to the traditional cooperation model since the reform and opening up.

Holland was also stunned. As an American, the most powerful person in the global village, it was difficult for him to understand what gave the Chinese boy in front of him the courage to reject the American company's request for stock exchange.

In his consistent understanding, American companies represent advanced technology and strong capital, and are usually the objects that companies from other countries are eager to cooperate with.

Holland sneered, his eyes fixed on Qingyun, and spoke provocatively.
“Dear Chairman, I personally think that if Yanhuang Group continues to maintain this uncooperative attitude, this deal will be difficult to reach.

Because you are challenging the Western value system.

We believe that transactions should be fair and reasonable.

The brand value premium of Abbeymu cannot be covered by the cash you put out.”

Holland's words seemed reasonable, but in fact they made people infuriated.

What is the Western value system?

What is brand value premium?
Not accepting America's proposal means being uncooperative?

This is totally bandit logic.

Guo Weimin and Zhang Xiaoyu looked at each other, and both saw a bitter smile in each other's eyes.

This foreigner claims to be an expert on China...

Don't you know that the boy in front of you is famous for being 'particularly good at fighting' and never losing a verbal battle? !
Guo Weimin wanted to cover his forehead.

But Mr. Ren, who was sitting next to Qingyun, looked at the young man in front of him with astonishment.

Behind the stage where no one could see, Qing Yun tightly grasped her thigh with one hand and looked down at the palm of her other hand.

After seeing the words on his palm clearly, the sharp-eyed Mr. Ren got goose bumps all over his body.

The young man had written on his hand the twelve words "If we are poor, we will develop together; if we are rich, we will follow the ancient ways".

Old Master Ren was shocked. This kid really dared to write anything!
Qing Yun seemed to feel Mr. Ren's gaze. He raised his head, blinked at Mr. Ren, and a mischievous smile appeared on his face.

Mr. Ren couldn't help but laugh. This young man dared to claim to acquire him for 120 billion US dollars...

interesting!

Holland did not notice these details, he was still waiting for Qingyun's answer.

Qing Yun took a deep breath, then stood up. He looked around the room and said slowly,
“Mr. Holland, I understand your concerns. But please allow me to explain our point of view.

First of all, it’s not that we are not good at cooperation, but we seek cooperation based on equality and respect.

We believe that any transaction should be based on the common interests of both parties, rather than a unilateral compromise.”

He paused and continued, “Secondly, regarding the brand value of Abiyemu, we do not deny its importance.

But in this fast-changing technology industry, brand value is not the only consideration. We value the company's innovation capabilities, market potential and future growth prospects.

We believe that through our management and operations, we can bring new vitality and growth to Abbey's PC business.

In addition, our cash acquisition proposal is based on an in-depth analysis of the current market conditions and Abbey's business.

We believe that this is a fair and reasonable offer that reflects our genuine assessment of Abbey's business and careful consideration of the potential for future cooperation between the two parties.

Finally, I would like to emphasize that Yanhuang Group’s internationalization strategy is not to challenge the Western value system, but to find win-win opportunities in this diversified world.

We believe that through our efforts, we can contribute to the development of the global IT industry and bring new possibilities to Abiymu.”

Qing Yun on the stage suddenly smiled again at this time, "Mr. Holland, I understand your concerns.

But please allow me to point out that if Abbeymu does not agree, NEC, Sony, BenQ, eMachines, and Gateway are all within our consideration.

These companies are now in a loss-making state.”

Holland's face changed drastically when he heard this.

But Qing Yun continued, "I think this is a fair deal.

Because the wave of global industrialization is unstoppable, the market changes brought about by globalization have forced traditional IT giants to adapt to the new market environment.

The emerging markets' demand for cost-effectiveness and innovation is a new challenge, namely how to create more market demand at a lower price. This is a difficult problem that the entire industry chain needs to face together.

China has highly competitive human resource costs internationally, a full industrial system, sound infrastructure, and rising scientific research and innovation capabilities.

These advantages constitute China's unparalleled competitiveness in the manufacturing link of the industrial chain, and are also the basis for us to dare to show our skills in the global market."

At this point, his voice suddenly became stronger.

“I believe that America and the world need a new participant with greater comparative advantages to make the entire industrial chain more efficient and reasonable, which is in line with the common values ​​of all mankind.

In the tide of globalization, Yanhuang Group is willing to become a new participant that promotes a more efficient and rational industrial chain and actively adapts to the needs of the international market.

Our goal is to create a win-win situation, which is not only in the interests of Yanhuang Group but also in the interests of global consumers.”

After Qing Yun elaborated his point of view in a dignified manner, he responded to Holland's provocation in a clever and firm way, which made Guo Weimin and Zhang Xiaoyu who were present secretly relieved.

Guo Weimin nodded slightly, with a hint of approval in his eyes.

In fact, he has always been worried that Qing Yun is young and energetic, and may appear too radical or immature in such an international occasion.

Therefore, he had not agreed to invite Qing Yun to attend the summit before, and was even completely opposed to Qing Yun attending this kind of press conference that set the tone.

But now, he sees a calm and clear-minded business leader.

It not only successfully safeguarded the interests of enterprises, but also cleverly enhanced the country's soft power.

Zhang Xiaoyu secretly applauded in his heart.

Holland is just a small reporter, and it is this kind of foreign reporter who always looks down on others and lectures them at the summits in the past few years.

Good boy, you brought honor to the country!

He had long been displeased with those who knelt down and listened to lectures from foreign leaders at summits.

Zhang Xiaoyu knew very well that Qing Yun's performance would not only win positive reviews from domestic and foreign media, but would also set a good example for Chinese companies in international negotiations.

Old Master Ren sat aside, looking at Qing Yun who was arguing with him, and his heart was filled with turmoil.

He had never imagined that such a young boy could be so calm and composed on the international stage, not only answering questions fluently but also taking the initiative and showing such extraordinary bearing and wisdom.

This made him look at the young man with admiration.

In his opinion, every word of Qing Yun seemed like a carefully designed strategy, which not only demonstrated the style of a Chinese entrepreneur but also had an international perspective.

Mr. Ren couldn't help but sigh in his heart, being able to describe China's low labor costs in such a high-sounding way as "extremely competitive"...

This kid is so shameless that his future is limitless!
In his opinion, Qing Yun's speech was more like a declaration to the world that "we will carry our lofty ambitions to the stars":
Hello, Yanhuang is here.

The old man's brows relaxed slightly and a smile appeared on his face.

Very interesting!

Even more interesting than the second law of thermodynamics!
Among the crowd below the stage, Xiao Ya stood there quietly, her eyes never leaving Qing Yun on the stage.

Watching his outstanding performance on the stage, her heart was filled with pride and honor.

What a pity, Zhang Xiaoli, who took the initiative to serve the boy at noon but was naive and playful, is still in bed and didn't see the little boy's charm at this moment.

But when Holland in the crowd heard this, his expression became a little complicated.

He suddenly realized that the young entrepreneur in front of him was not only well versed in China's official jargon, but also had a thorough understanding of the Western value narrative system.

What is even more surprising is that Qing Yun's logic is so rigorous and his words are so precise, as if he is not conducting a business negotiation but reading a carefully prepared academic paper.

Holland's heart was filled with doubts: Is this really an entrepreneur?
Or has China produced a new outstanding economist?

Holland was speechless and could only shrug his shoulders. "Then I can only wish you good luck in the subsequent negotiations with Abiemu."

That being said, as a part-time economics scholar, he knew very well that the young man in front of him had revealed the essence of the matter.

The global industrial chain needs a new participant who can provide cheaper solutions at this moment.

And if Abiemu does not seize this opportunity to recover capital by disposing of assets, then other brands will come forward to talk to Qingyun.

By then, I'm afraid Abiemu will suffer more and more losses.

Because this guy has money and a market behind him.

Qing Yun's remarks not only resonated with the audience at the conference, but also sparked extensive discussion among the public at home and abroad through the dissemination of new media.

Whether people think Qing Yun is just bragging or pretending to be impressive, the Chinese people have begun to re-examine the development path of this local national enterprise.

And more people use it as a case to explore what role other companies can play in the current global economic system based on the current state of the industry.

……

(End of this chapter)