Chapter 290: Talk to Hardy

After HSBC President Sanders returned to Hong Kong, he immediately contacted Victor, who had recently become a prominent figure in the city. Previously, their relationship had been cordial but not particularly close. However, the acquisition of HSBC by Wells Fargo Bank had changed everything. Chairman Hardy had appointed Victor as the assistant to the chairman, granting him significant authority at HSBC, second only to Hardy himself.

Victor was elated upon receiving a telegram from Hardy announcing his new role. The acquisition of HSBC, a major note-issuing bank in Hong Kong, elevated its status and influence in the city.

When Sanders, the HSBC president, called Victor, he brought Sandy Weir, president of Wells Fargo Bank's Hong Kong branch, to Sanders' manor. Due to the bank's closure and the large crowd outside, they met at the manor rather than at HSBC.

Sanders, who had not initially greeted them at the door, met them with a smile and handshake. Victor introduced Sandy Weir and emphasized their joint efforts for the bank's recovery.

After exchanging pleasantries, they proceeded to the living room where Sanders relayed Hardy's plan. Hardy had arranged for Wells Fargo and Manhattan Bank to provide a $40 million loan to stabilize HSBC. Sandy Weir would handle a $20 million loan from the Rich Country, while Manhattan Bank's funds would arrive in a few days. Sanders was tasked with managing normal operations and ensuring the public that HSBC's funds were secure.

Victor, confident in his role, suggested a strategy to calm the public and reassure them of HSBC's stability. The next day, the Hong Kong Evening News reported that HSBC had been acquired by Manhattan Bank and Wells Fargo, with the Sassoon family selling their shares. The large assets of the two banks were meant to restore confidence in HSBC.

The Global Times further reinforced this message, announcing HSBC's new major shareholders and resumption of normal operations. The bank promised to honor all transactions and maintain customer property safety.

On the day HSBC reopened, a crowd of 3,000 to 5,000 gathered outside, waiting to withdraw their money. Despite the chaos and pushing, the police and bank staff managed to maintain some semblance of order. The doors finally opened at 10 a.m., and people began to withdraw money, seeing the large amounts of cash displayed behind the windows.

By evening, the bank had processed over 2,000 transactions. The orderly conduct and the visible cash helped to reassure the public. Many people, initially skeptical, began to regain trust in HSBC.

Li Chunshan, who had orchestrated some of the early disruptions, met with Victor later. In his Huizhou-style home, Li handed over a suitcase with the final payment of $1,253,600. Victor, pleased with the clarity and professionalism of their business dealings, thanked Li.

The chaos had been largely orchestrated by triads, who were paid to create a sense of urgency and panic. With the situation under control, HSBC's reputation began to recover, aided by favorable media reports and the effective management of its new shareholders.

As the news spread, David, observing from Britain, recognized Hardy's skill in both creating and resolving crises. Impressed by Hardy's methods, he decided to arrange a meeting with him to discuss future endeavors.