Chapter 186: Global Times

The next day, Irina led a team to Las Vegas to establish a new TV station. With ABC well-staffed, setting up a local station proved to be straightforward.

Hardy still had an important task to complete in Los Angeles. His recent deal with MGM also involved acquiring a stake in the Los Angeles Times. Now owning 11% of the shares, Hardy had become a significant shareholder in the newspaper.

Having reviewed the company's shareholder statement brought by Andy, Hardy noted that the Los Angeles Times is affiliated with the Mirror company. Major shareholders include Bank of America and the Morgan family.

The Los Angeles Times headquarters in Los Angeles arranged a shareholder and management meeting to welcome Hardy. Despite Hardy's current influence being less than that of large conglomerates like Morgan and Bank of America, his presence on the West Coast, especially in Los Angeles, commanded respect.

After the introductions, the president of the Los Angeles Times briefed Hardy on the newspaper's operations. The editorial department employs over 350 staff and has reporters stationed in more than 20 countries. The Times, known for having the most advertisements among the major U.S. newspapers, is financially healthy.

The Los Angeles Times is one of the top three newspapers in the U.S., which underscores its significant influence. Hardy expressed his desire for ABC to collaborate closely with the Times, particularly in news coverage. He emphasized the importance of timeliness, noting that breaking news moments ahead of competitors can drastically affect audience engagement.

The president agreed to cooperate, though he made it clear that providing news would come at an additional cost. The meeting concluded positively.

Leaving the Los Angeles Times, Hardy and Andy got into the car. Hardy reflected on the need for a global newspaper.

"Andy, we should start our own newspaper, a global one," Hardy said.

Andy was surprised. "Do you think working with the Los Angeles Times isn't enough?"

Hardy shook his head. "While the Los Angeles Times gives us another channel for information, we need our own platform to communicate our message."

"Isn't ABC already that platform?" Andy asked.

"Television stations are just one part of it. ABC only reaches households with TVs and radios, which is a limited audience. Newspapers still hold significant influence globally, and they can be distributed across multiple countries," Hardy explained.

Andy was skeptical about the cost and effort involved in starting a global newspaper. "Building such a newspaper could be very expensive, at least ten million dollars initially, with significant ongoing investments."

Hardy smiled. "Andy, the point of making money isn't just for personal comfort. Sometimes it's about pursuing a vision."

"Why pursue such an ambitious project?" Andy asked.

"Because it's exciting. Imagine having a global newspaper where we can publish and expose whatever we want," Hardy replied with enthusiasm.

Andy understood. "What do you need from me?"

"Find a capable president for the newspaper. The future of the Global Times depends on this person," Hardy instructed.

"Got it. By the way, what will we name the newspaper?" Andy asked.

Hardy thought for a moment. "Global Times."

Andy quickly began the search and found a few promising candidates. One stood out: Mark Keane, the current president of the Daily Tribune in Los Angeles. The Tribune, while struggling, maintained a serious and professional tone, focusing on politics, economics, and international relations.

Mark Keane had an impressive background, including work as a deputy editor at the New York Times and a war correspondent during World War II. After the war, he founded the Daily Tribune to report global news from his perspective.

Hardy met with Mark Keane, who looked somewhat like Tom Hanks with his distinctive long head.

"Mr. Keane, you know we're looking to build a global newspaper," Hardy said.

"Yes, Mr. Andy informed me. I've always dreamed of running a global newspaper," Mark replied.

"Are you interested in the position?" Hardy asked.

"Absolutely. It's my dream job," Mark said enthusiastically.

Hardy asked about Mark's qualifications. Mark detailed his experience, language skills, and readiness for the demands of the job.

"Are there any specific requirements or conditions you have?" Hardy inquired.

Mark's tone became serious. "I want the Global Times to prioritize truthfulness and avoid bias for any political agenda. The purpose of news is to inform, not to manipulate."

Hardy agreed with Mark's principles. "The Global Times will strive for truth, impartiality, and fearlessness, regardless of party or special interests."

Mark's eyes lit up with excitement. "If you support this vision, I believe the Global Times can rival major newspapers like the Times, the Guardian, the Washington Post, and the New York Times."

Hardy shook Mark's hand, signaling the start of their collaboration. "I'm entrusting you with this. Make it a success."

Mark asked about the budget. "How much are you willing to invest?"

Hardy replied, "I'll allocate 2 million dollars to the Global Times. Andy's finance team will review the expenditures."

Mark was thrilled. "Thank you, Boss. I'll ensure every dollar is spent wisely."

Mark then mentioned acquiring the Daily Tribune as the first newspaper for their venture. Hardy laughed, recognizing the irony in the choice.

The groundwork for the Global Times was set, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Hardy's ambitious plans.