Chapter 285: British Line~~Joining Up with Rockefeller

Monroe applied sunscreen to Hardy's back as he read the newspaper with a smile. She asked, "What news makes you so happy?"

"The newspaper says HD Security is the protector of the people. What do you think, Monroe?" Hardy asked.

Monroe leaned in and whispered in his ear, "I only know that you're my protector."

"And when do you feel the most protected?" Hardy inquired.

"That would be when you're on top of me," Monroe replied boldly.

Protecting the people is an unshirkable responsibility.

---

Wells Fargo President Johnston had sent a telegram stating that his visit to Portugal was ending, and his next stop was the UK. Hardy had previously instructed Johnston to inform him of his arrival, and Johnston had confirmed that he would arrive in the UK at the same time.

Hardy had left Andy, the president of the group, behind to manage the company's affairs. Only with someone in charge could he proceed without concerns.

Hardy's plane landed at London Airport just ten minutes before the planes of the aid and inspection teams, and everyone disembarked together.

The British Foreign Secretary and Chancellor of the Exchequer greeted them at the airport, and they proceeded to the Prime Minister's residence at No. 10 Downing Street.

They met Prime Minister Clement Attlee, the Prime Minister of the Labour Party. Attlee had promoted nationalization since taking office in 1945, hoping it would rescue the UK. He nationalized communications, transportation, electricity, gas, and steel industries.

The British were ambivalent about US aid. On one hand, Britain needed it desperately due to post-war difficulties. On the other hand, they saw the US aid as a strategic move to make recipient countries economically and politically dependent on the US, thereby gaining influence in Europe and globally.

Britain's pride as an empire still lingered. While they sought aid, they did so reluctantly, offering less favorable terms for investment compared to smaller countries. State-owned enterprises were off-limits, and only private businesses were considered for investment.

Hardy wasn't concerned with the entire list of investment opportunities. He focused on three areas: banking, shipping, and luxury goods. He had requested a list of luxury goods companies open to investment, while Johnston handled banking and shipping.

Not long after, Johnston approached Hardy and said, "Mr. Hardy, I'm considering purchasing a small failing bank with over 20 branches, three in London and the rest in major UK cities."

"You can decide on that yourself," Hardy said.

"I've also noticed HSBC is selling shares. Their shareholding is significant," Johnston added.

Hardy's interest was piqued. "Is HSBC in need of cash?"

"I'm not sure, but HSBC's right to issue currency in Hong Kong makes it a valuable asset. If Hong Kong develops, the bank could be very profitable," Johnston said.

Hardy thought about it. During WWII, HSBC was occupied by the Japanese, and its assets were seized. After the war, it reopened but faced challenges due to China's domestic issues and the instability of Hong Kong. Many HSBC branches had closed, and there was uncertainty about Hong Kong's future. It seemed HSBC was selling shares to mitigate risk.

"Who else is interested in HSBC?" Hardy asked.

"David Rockefeller is also looking at HSBC. He owns Manhattan Bank and might want to invest in HSBC. He's in contact with the Sassoon family," Johnston replied.

The Sassoon family was a powerful Jewish family with a history in opium trade and banking. Hardy saw this as a strategic opportunity.

"John, arrange a meeting with Rockefeller. I need to discuss something with him," Hardy instructed.

Johnston made the call and returned shortly. "Mr. Rockefeller is available to meet now."

Hardy met David Rockefeller, and they greeted each other warmly. They settled in the hotel garden, where a pot of black tea was served. Hardy offered Rockefeller a cigar, which he accepted with a smile.

Hardy and Rockefeller had become friends during their previous meetings in Italy and France. Rockefeller admired Hardy's unique investment theories and saw him as an insightful investor.

"What would you like to discuss, Hardy?" Rockefeller asked.

"I understand you're considering investing in HSBC and have contacted the Sassoon family?" Hardy asked.

"Yes, are you interested in HSBC too?" Rockefeller responded with a smile.

"I'm concerned about the risks," Hardy said. "The Global Times has a branch in Hong Kong, and their reports show severe inflation in China, causing HSBC to close many branches and raising doubts about Hong Kong's stability. This may be why Sassoon is selling shares."

Rockefeller was taken aback but listened intently. Hardy's insights gave him pause.

"Thank you for the information. I'll need to reconsider this investment," Rockefeller said thoughtfully.

Hardy shook his head. "Don't rush. Use this information to negotiate a better price. I'm interested in buying shares in HSBC, but I want to avoid conflict between us."

"Are you planning to invest in HSBC as well?" Rockefeller asked.

"Yes, it's a gamble," Hardy admitted. "But it could pay off. I've already invested heavily in Hong Kong's industries. If I can acquire shares in HSBC, it will support my ventures in the East."

Rockefeller considered Hardy's words. Although unsure of the outcome, he trusted Hardy's judgment based on his past successes and theories.

"Let's collaborate on this project," Rockefeller proposed. "I'll handle talks with Sassoon and other minority shareholders, and we can use public pressure to drive down the price."

"Agreed," Hardy said with a smile, shaking Rockefeller's hand.

The partnership of their two powerful consortia was formidable.